Using a burglar alarm installation manual is the best way to install an alarm system. It explains how the owner of the house needs to install the burglar alarm. However, before installing the alarm the house owner needs to survey the property in order to decide how many doors and windows present a security threat. He or she also needs to look at large halls and sitting spaces that need protection against intruder break in.

The homeowner's next step should be to decide on the kind of alarm he or she wants to install. The owner has the option to select a either a wireless alarm or a hard-wired alarm. A wireless alarm is generally easier to install as it requires no wires that must be run across the house. The different components of the alarm can be inserted in the selected spots as per the instructions given in the installation manual.

The ideal place to install the control panel is in the basement (or any other place where it cannot be easily spotted by an intruder). Also, it should be within signal range. That is, the control panel should be able to pick up signals from other wireless components like the sensors and magnetic switches.

The homeowner then needs to install the magnetic switches on all of those doors and windows that a possible intruder can force entry. These switches are comprised of two parts -- a magnet and a switch -- and are not difficult to install. The house owner must only make sure that the distance between the switch and the magnet is not so large as to allow the intruder to walk in unnoticed. The alarm must go off when the distance between the magnet and the switch increases.

The next component you will need to install is the contact sensor. These sensors should be installed in those areas of a home through which an intruder would pass. Once again this decision has to be made by the house owner. He or she should select a place that is close to an entry or exit, and would invariably pick up any motion.

Finally, the homeowner needs to install the keypad. This device should be installed near the entry to enable the house owner to disarm or arm the alarm with ease. The homeowner can also add motion-sensor lights around the home. These lights should switch on whenever an individual passes beneath them.

A similar procedure should be followed in the case of a hard-wired alarm. The only difference is that all of the components of the alarm system must be connected by electrical wiring. Since this wiring should be concealed, the house owner would have to make an extra effort to install the alarm system.