As an installer, it’s important to offer your customers reliable intrusion solutions, so you can protect them and their valuable assets against theft, vandalism and environmental damage. Whether it’s for a home or commercial building, a well-thought-out security system can help prevent any harm from happening. Read more to explore an overview about wireless security systems, their components and how you and your customers can benefit from them.
What is a wireless security system and how does it work?
A wireless security system is a collection of wireless devices that work together to protect people, homes, buildings and assets from unwanted intruders and damage. These components communicate with each other through wireless signals produced by Wi-Fi, cellular signals or radio frequency. Unlike wired security systems, wireless systems are much easier to install and maintain since they don’t require the extra hassle of installing wires to run through walls, ceilings or floors.
Components of a wireless security system
- Control panel – The central hub that allows a user to manage and control all devices in a security system. The control panel receives signals from the other devices, then interprets those signals to determine whether it should notify the user of any potential danger. For example, if there’s an intruder who breaks into someone’s home, a sensor will detect their presence and send a signal to the control panel, which will then immediately notify the homeowner on their smartphone about the break-in.
A control panel can be installed in several areas of a home such as the entrance, living room and main bedroom. For commercial buildings, they can be installed in a dedicated security office, operations room or maintenance room. Some of the most common features of a wireless control panel include a touchscreen display, arm and disarm functions, various alarm and alert settings, remote control functions, system monitoring and the ability to integrate with other smart devices.
- Alarm communicators – An essential wireless component typically installed near the control panel and used to alert a monitoring center or emergency service about burglaries and other dangerous situations. Alarm communicators play an important role in a wireless system because they allow quick and effective communication to receive help, which can minimize the amount of harm inflicted on people and any property. Some common features of alarm communicators include system monitoring, remote control capabilities and two-way voice communication.
- Door/window sensors – These wireless sensors are attached to doors and windows and detect when they are opened or closed. This makes it a helpful device to detect when unwanted intruders attempt to enter a home or building through a door or window. When a door/window wireless sensor is triggered, it will immediately alert relevant users through their smartphone or security monitoring device. The installation process of a door/window sensor is simple and it’s easy to accommodate any type of door or window as they are offered in a variety of sizes. There are two parts of a door/window sensor: a magnet and sensor. The magnet is installed on the door or window, while the sensor should be installed on the frame.
- Motion sensors – These sensors work in a similar fashion to door/window sensors, except they detect any movement in a particular area. Motion sensors are excellent for providing additional security on top of the protection door/window sensors offer. Motion detectors are typically installed in areas where intruders are more prone to enter a home or building. This includes entryways, hallways, large rooms, stairways and even outdoor areas. Like door/window sensors, motion sensors offer an easy installation process and can accommodate different types of environments like public spaces, industrial environments, healthcare facilities and more. Some of the most common features of motion sensors include pet immunity to prevent false alarms, various detection ranges, adjustable sensitivity levels, tamper detection and the ability to integrate with other smart home devices.
- Environmental sensors and detectors – These wireless sensors are used to measure environmental quality and detect any potential hazards in a home or building. The most common types of environmental sensors and detectors include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, water leak sensors, smoke alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Benefits of wireless security systems
Wireless security systems offer a wide range of benefits and more flexible security options compared to wired systems. This includes a significantly easier installation process, greater flexibility in system design, remote access and control, a feature to notify the user of low battery life and the ability to integrate with other smart devices such as smart locks, smart thermostats and smart lighting systems. Wireless systems are also a more affordable option compared to wired systems.
Ultimately, wireless security systems offer greater benefits and more customizable features that make it a superior choice compared to traditional wired security systems. Wireless systems are also easier to install and maintain and can be installed in a variety of residential and commercial verticals, including apartments, educational facilities, healthcare facilities, convention centers, hotels, banks, entertainment venues, restaurants and more.