More and more people are using a wireless burglar alarm system to protect their homes. These systems are not connected using wires. They use radio waves sent from the various sensors to the control panel to monitor any activity in the owner's home. These wireless systems use motion sensors along with both window and door contact to warn of intruders inside or close to the house. The alarm system is controlled by a keypad which is in the homeowner's possession. The keypad is used to arm and disarm the system remotely.

A wireless burglar alarm system is made up from the following components:

Control Panel: This is the “brains” of the wireless system. It is generally placed out of the way in a closet or in the basement for security reasons. Its function is to receive signals sent from the sensors which have been installed around the house. When one of the sensors relays a signal to the Control Panel that something has occurred, an alarm is sounded. If the homeowner has his system monitored, in addition to sounding an alarm, the Control Panel alerts the monitoring center to summon the proper authorities.

Keypad: Exactly as its name describes, it is a device where you key in your code to either arm or disarm your alarm system. The key pad is normally placed by your main entry. As alarm systems have evolved the keypads have become much easier to use. Night time use is facilitated by screens which are illuminated. Also, to speed use in an emergency, the added feature of one-touch function keys, allows the push of a single button to arm or disarm your system.

Magnetic contacts: Simply a switch placed in close proximity to a magnet that measures any increase of the distance between itself and the magnet. They are installed on windows and doors protected by the system. When the system is activated and any increase is detected, such as the opening of a door or window, the switch sounds an alarm.

Contact sensors: These are sophisticated motion detectors, which use passive infrared light, to detect motion or the effects of body heat in an covered area. Known as PIRs for short, they are normally used when the family is absent. They are also located in areas of the home which are

little used and a human presence is not expected. When a PIR detects motion or senses body heat in the area they sound an alarm.

Home security cameras: As added protection, cameras can be installed which through a wireless signal transmits to a video monitor any movements in its coverage area. They allow for identification of both visitors and intruders.

Monitoring: An added service available to the homeowner, which monitors any signals received by the control panel in the home. Using radio waves, a central location tracks the signals generated by the security system. Once the system sounds an alarm, the monitoring service can summon emergency agencies to your home.

Remote Keys: A small device which allows for the operation of the system with out using the keypad. They can be used at a distance and perform all the functions of arming or disarming your system. They prove quite useful if you will approaching your entryway with packages or bags of

groceries. They also provide the added security of a quick entry, rather than standing at the keypad manually entering your code.