Mini Alarm Systems

Alarm systems are usually equipped with sensors that scan the area to be protected and register changes immediately. They forward a corresponding signal to the control center, which then triggers an alarm . The type of sensor may vary depending on the application area. Glass breakage detectors, for example, react to vibrations or frequencies that arise when glass breaks . They are traditionally attached to doors and windows, but can also be used to secure display cases. Active glass breakage detectors are available, which require a power supply for operation. They consist of an ultrasonic transmitter that continuously radiates onto the glass surface and an ultrasonic receiver that registers the reflected ultrasound waves. If the frequency changes, an alarm is generated. Passive glass breakage detectors work a little differently. They are equipped with a piezoelectric sensor that responds to the frequency of breaking glass (around 100 kHz). Unlike their active counterparts, passive glass breakage detectors do not emit frequencies and do not require a supply voltage . To generate an alarm, they take advantage of the piezo effect: The deformation of the glass creates an electrical voltage that can be used for switching. An addition to the two types mentioned above are acoustic glass breakage detectors that react to the noise (airborne sound) of breaking glass panes and are equipped with a microphone for this purpose.

Motion detectors also work with sensors. They are able to detect movements via electromagnetic waves, ultrasound or infrared radiation. Ultrasonic motion detectors work in the same way as active glass breakage detectors. They consist of a transmitter and a receiver and record changes on the basis of the reflected ultrasound waves. A similar function is provided by radio frequency or radar motion detectors. They emit electromagnetic waves and record the energy that reflects the objects around them. However, the most common are PIR motion detectors . PIR detectors (PIR stands for Pyroelectric Infrared) have a pyroelectric sensor that detects temperature changes in the environment and thus the heat radiation of approaching objects. Motion detectors based on infrared are often offered as radio motion detectors.

While motion detectors are mostly used in the area around the house and garden, entry detectors are mainly found in shops. If a customer steps through the door, they will sound a beep to indicate that. If the loading door is not visible from the workplace, this type of door alarm proves to be extremely practical. Entry detectors are very similar in function. For example, PIR entry detectors generate a light barrier from infrared rays . As soon as someone breaks through, the change is registered.

An additional way to monitor doors and windows is by opening detectors . Its operation is essentially based on a magnetic contact . If this is interrupted (when the door is opened) , an alarm signal sounds . Opening detectors are usually battery-operated and easy to install. Similar to entry detectors, they can be used as a kind of door gong.

Folding alarms are particularly suitable as window alarms. They are small enough to be mounted almost invisibly in the fold of the window frame and also protect when the windows are tilted. Fold alarms can be set to automatically switch on or off depending on the orientation of the window handle (top/bottom/horizontal).

Alarm door stoppers are used explicitly to secure doors. They are wedge-shaped , preventing the door from being opened further and simultaneously sounding an alarm . As a rule, alarm door stoppers are operated with batteries and can be used as mobile alarm systems. For example, it is possible to secure the holiday home or the camping car with it.

The electronic guard dog is a special type of mini alarm system. This is a compact alarm system based on radar or infrared technology that detects intruders within a specific monitoring radius and generates a dog bark . The bark serves not only as a deterrent for potential burglars, but also for other uninvited guests, such as animals.

Alarm systems with sensor technology are not the only way to protect themselves from burglars. Television simulators, for example, mimic the typical picture of a television set so that it appears that someone is at home and would watch television. TV simulators usually work with LEDs, whose color and light intensity are constantly changing – as is the case with a running TV with moving image.

Pocket alarms are less suitable for intrusion protection . They are more useful for your own safety, for example when you are traveling alone in the dark. Pocket alarms are small-format devices that trigger a loud alarm at the push of a button to attract the attention of passers-by and deter the attacker. Often the mini alarms are equipped with a key ring to be attached to the key ring within easy reach.

Wireless alarm systems offer a lot of advantages. They are wireless , so they can be attached inconspicuously and can be controlled easily with the help of a radio remote control. If control via remote control is not possible, the settings can usually be made directly on the base station or using an app. In order to arm a wireless alarm system, it is sometimes not even necessary to press a button or smartphone. Modern alarm systems can also be activated or deactivated using transponders. Such transponders have an integrated RFID chip and can be read or written without contact.
Wireless alarm systems offer a lot of advantages. They are wireless , so they can be attached inconspicuously and can be controlled easily with the help of a radio remote control. If control via remote control is not possible, the settings can usually be made directly on the base station or using an app. In order to arm a wireless alarm system, it is sometimes not even necessary to press a button or smartphone. Modern alarm systems can also be activated or deactivated using transponders. Such transponders have an integrated RFID chip and can be read or written without contact. 
The type of power supply also plays an important role in the selection of a mini alarm system. Many small alarm systems are designed for battery operation , which was the advantage that they can be used flexibly, regardless of whether a socket is nearby or not. However, the batteries must be replaced regularly. Mains operated alarm systems are more convenient to use, but in the event of a power failure, they no longer perform their service, unless an emergency power battery is installed.

In order to escape potential burglars, the signal sound generated by an alarm system must of course be loud. In this case, the respective decibel (dB) must be observed. For your orientation: A smoke detector should reach a volume of at least 85 dB at a distance of three meters, which corresponds to the noise level of a main road. Most sirens are capable of generating 90 to 100 dB and thus provide for a sufficiently loud signal tone. Sirens do not always have to be used to trigger an alarm. There is also the option to set up a silent alarm. In this case, you enter your email address or phone number and receive a message or call when a threat is detected.
The range is an important purchasing criterion, especially for motion detectors. Some models have a range of five or six meters, while others detect movements within a range of 20 meters. It is important to select a model that best meets the ambient conditions.

Our practical tip: Install and maintain wireless alarm systems correctly

The core of a wireless alarm system is the central unit. It evaluates the data recorded by the sensors, switches the siren or the lighting and, if necessary, sets off an emergency call. The base unit should always be installed in a readily accessible location, regularly checked and cleaned to prevent possible false alarms. Modern wireless alarm systems record the events and record the reactions of the sensors. These logs can be read out to gain an overview of what is happening and the functioning of the alarm system.