Wireless signalling has the advantages of being simple to set up and mobile. Installation can be done in rooms with a fine finish and takes two to three hours. When moving, the apparatus is simply disassembled and put back together in the new place.
What’s contained
A control panel (with or without an integrated keyboard), a siren, sensors (door opening, movement), a power supply unit, and remote key fobs for arming and disarming are all included in the typical wireless alarm package for the flat.
When more sensors are added, the alert can be scaled:
- domestic — flooding, smoke, gas leaks;
- magnetic reed switches — opening doors or windows;
- acoustic — breaking;
- infrared or microwave — movement.
What is the operation of a wireless alarm for a flat or office?
A radio channel is used by a triggered detector to send a signal to the central unit (frequency 315, 433 or 868 MHz). After analysing it, the alert feature and siren are turned on. Sending alarm SMS and/or serial calling to the designated phone numbers and the security console are part of the typical algorithm of actions. Some types alert users of a switch in operating mode or an electrical outage. A SIM card is put into the GSM module’s slot and utilized for notification.
Powering wireless alarms
An adapter is used to connect the central unit to the network (12V). A built-in backup battery is employed in the event of a power loss and has a capacity sufficient for an average battery life of 4 to 12 hours. It is worthwhile to outfit the system with a separate UPS in order to raise this value.
Standard batteries that can last for a few months to two or three years power the sensors (depending on type). The system keeps track of each component’s power supply and sends the user an SMS when an issue arises.
Control
Numerous control mechanisms are supported by every wireless GSM alarm system. The keypad, remote control, or mobile phone can be used by the user to enable and disable the security mode. In the latter scenario, specific programs (if the control panel includes a Wi-Fi module), SMS commands, or DTMF codes (digit entry) are employed. Setting up a keyboard with a display that shows details about the entered commands is more practical.
Secure areas
Security zones are “connected” to wireless sensors. They can be anywhere between 10 and 122 in number, depending on the alarm model. You can identify the location and types of triggered sensors using such a split. One zone may register many detectors.
In rare circumstances, specific memory cells inherently register entire sensors (reed switch — the first zone, motion sensor — the second zone, etc.). This makes the setup process much simpler because the user is not needed to deal with registration. The zone can have a name (such “hallway,” “garage,” or “living room”) and the operating algorithm can be configured. The majority of systems enable a number of modes, including continual protection, partial protection, and general protection (which can be turned on and off independently) (for smoke, flood, gas leakage sensors).
Additional capabilities
Keep in mind the following extra elements that have an impact on price when selecting a wireless alarm system for your house or place of business:
- Wi-Fi module — transmits alarm push alerts over the Internet and lets you use an app to control the system;
- By specifying the necessary time, a timer enables you to automate the security mode’s arming and disarming;
- the second SIM card slot, which enables the usage of a second SIM card and activates it when signal reception is weak;
- switch on/off delay: To avoid false alarms, the mode is triggered 10-99 seconds after the wireless alarm with motion sensor is armed or disarmed;
- the GSM alarm central’s built-in microphone and speaker enable two-way communication, allowing you to use it as a telephone (in intercom mode);
- control of the power supply — delivering SMS alerts in the event of an issue (power loss, low battery);
- status reporting by SMS whenever an operational mode changes;
- electrical appliances are linked to the relay contacts at the output.
Steps for installation
- installing the central unit with a SIM card that has been activated.
- The installation of sensors on the front entrance (reed switches), windows (glass breaks), and walls (movements).
- Setting up an alarm by “binding” sensors to security zones using a keyboard or mobile device.
