The Control Panel
A security system starts with a control panel. Usually located in a closet or a basement, the control panel contains the "brains" of the security system, and essentially operates as a central computer. Various sensors connect to the control panel from locations throughout your home. If your security system is armed and the sensors detect a problem, they send signals to the control panel. The control panel automatically dials the central monitoring station, where the proper authorities are notified.

Keypad
You operate your security system by entering your security code at the keypad. Generally located at entry doors, keypads can arm and disarm with push-button ease, and literally put security at your family’s fingertips! Good features to look for include illuminated keys to provide you with greater visibility at nighttime, easy-to-read English displays that spell out your system’s status at a glance, and one-touch function keys that provide single-button operation for arming, disarming or emergencies. Most keypads even offer convenient additional user codes to give friends, neighbors or service people access to your home.

Door and Window Sensors
Triggers the alarm system if a secured door or window is opened while the security system is armed. One part of the contact is a switch installed in the window or door jam; the other contains a magnet and is placed in the window or door itself. Any noticeable shift in contact with the switch results in an alarm.

Motion Detectors (PIR)
A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by "sensing" motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from home or when no one will be passing through the area "covered" by the PIR.  If you own a pet recent innovations in security technology have resulted in the creation of "pet immune" motion detectors.  These state-of-the-art sensors provide "pet immunity" for animals weighing up to 100 lbs. Pet immune PIRs allow your pet to move about freely but can still detect an intruder’s movement.

Smoke / Heat Detectors
Detects smoke or unusually high temperature and sounds an alarm to warn your family of a possible fire. Unlike conventional stand alone smoke detectors a smoke detector connected to your security system offers more protection because it is monitored by a central station. If fire strikes, the detector sets off an alarm and sends a signal to the control panel. The control panel dials the central station, where the operator notifies the fire department. Only central station monitored smoke detectors provide automatic notification of authorities when you or your family are asleep, not at home or unable to get to the phone.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America.   Carbon monoxide detectors detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide within your home based on an accumulation of carbon monoxide over time and sounds an alarm to warn your family of the possible danger.

Glassbreak Detectors
"Acoustic" glassbreak sensors, usually mounted on ceilings or walls, work by "listening" for the sound of breaking glass in a window. "Shock" glassbreak detectors are mounted on the window and "feel" the shock of breaking glass. This kind of advanced wireless technology can provide shatter and shock protection for your windows, for often intruders are "sensed" and an alarm sounded while they are still outdoors. This is often enough to send a burglar running!

Wireless Security Devices
Technological breakthroughs have led to the development of wireless electronic security products, and their effectiveness has been proven time and again over the years in millions of installations. Their rock-solid stability and long battery life make them a popular choice among homeowners and dealers alike. They give installers the flexibility they need to overcome obstacles like brick walls, cement floors and cathedral ceilings; and no drilling holes preserves the beauty of your home and results in cleaner, faster installations.