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  1. eHow
  2. Home Safety & Household Tips
  3. Home Safety & Security
  4. Burglar Alarms

Burglar Alarms

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  • DIY: Burglar Alarms

    Installation cost often adds a considerable expense to home security systems. Do-it-yourself systems aren't usually as involved as hard-wired installations, but they provide a modicum of protection for your property while providing peace of mind while you're away. The alarms rely on wireless sensors on doors and windows that send a signal to the control panel when an entry point is breached. Installing a DIY burglar alarm therefore requires the proper installation of the sensors, the panel and the alarm siren.

  • Standards of Wiring Burglar Alarms

    Many homeowners install burglar alarms in their homes to protect themselves from thieves. When installing a residential burglar alarm, there are standards that must be met to ensure the alarm works properly. Residential burglar alarm standards include protection for one room of a residence, a multi-room residence or an open area in a single family residence.

  • False Burglar Alarms Caused By an Electrical Arcing

    False burglar alarms can be troublesome. Burglar alarms that falsely alert the alarm company and the police can tie up valuable resources and cost the taxpayers additional money. Burglar alarms should only work in the actual event of a burglary or other similar emergency, but electrical arcing can cause the occasional false alarm.

  • Burglar Alarms Made Out of Electromagnets

    Over two million burglaries occurred in the United States in 2008, according to the Electronic Alarm Association. These intrusions could have been prevented or minimized if an electromagnetic alarm had sounded when the door or window was opened. Electromagnetic alarms are common in many homes, and kits are available through many home improvement stores.

  • Problems Between a Burglar Alarm & a Modem

    Alarm systems need to connect to the software at your alarm company in order to provide status updates on your system. When one of the alarm mechanisms in your house is triggered, it sends a signal to the security company saying that there is a potential problem at your house. However, if the modem is not working properly, your alarm system may not be able to communicate.

  • How to Make a Burglar Alarm for a Bedroom Door With a Buzzer

    Making a homemade burglar alarm for a bedroom does not have to be difficult. All that is required is a small buzzer, a power source, and a closed circuit. The key to making the door alarm work is closing the circuit when somebody tried to get into the room. Metal conducts electricity so it is an optimal choice for being an electrical bridge. When the metal is not touching, it breaks the circuit and the alarm ceases to emit sound. When the metal touches, it closes the circuit and fires off a device that emits sound.

  • How to Network a Burglar Alarm & Modem on a Single Phone Line

    If you recently installed a new burglar alarm or have an existing system that is interfering with your modem's Internet connection, then there is one thing you can do to resolve the interference issue. You can install a phone filter, which is a small device that blocks interference from the alarm system, giving you a clean, clear connection to access the Internet. The filter can be purchased at your local electronics store and is fairly inexpensive. You can also check with your Internet provider to see if you qualify to get a free phone filter.

  • How to Make a Battery Powered Burglar Alarm

    Simple burglar alarms work on the principle of a broken electrical circuit. Power to an buzzer is interrupted, preventing the alarm from activating. When the alarm is tripped, power is allowed to flow to the buzzer. This project is fun to do with your children, and is a good introduction to basic electronics. Your child can use this alarm on his bedroom, if he so chooses.

  • How to Setup an ADT Pulse

    ADT is an alarm and security company that provides home protection. Customers can upgrade their system to ADT Pulse. ADT Pulse allows for wireless control when you're in your home and when you're away. Some wireless control features include the thermostat, alarm system, lights and wireless cameras, and smoke detectors. You can remotely monitor your home with ADT 24-hour monitoring. You can even disarm your alarm system, view real-time video and adjust lights through your Blackberry, Android, iPhone or iPad. In order to get these features in your home, you will need to complete the basic setup.

  • Burglar Deterrent Techniques

    With or without an alarm system, your home might attract burglars. Evaluate your premises through the eyes of a thief to identify hiding places and entryways with easy access. By focusing on security in these areas and implementing burglary prevention techniques, you can decrease the chance of an intruder entering your home.

  • Do-it-Yourself Home Security for Pre-wired Homes

    Home security typically consists of sensors that monitor doors and windows in a house. Break-ins are reported to a control panel that sets off an alarm or sends a signal to an outside monitoring station. A do-it-yourself home security system can be set up in a home that has been wired for sensors. Household tools will be needed as well as a wired security kit that can be purchased from an electronics store or a security-service supply center.

  • How Do You Make a Trap So You Know When People Come In?

    Making a trap to alert you when someone comes in is a relatively easy process that requires some creativity. Consider any household items, such as bells or wind chimes, that will make enough of a sound to announce unwanted visitors. Use caution to create traps that simply set off an alert rather than cause injury or harm.

  • How Does a Mold Alarm Work?

    At best, mold in the home creates an unpleasant and musty odor. At worst, this sometimes toxic substance can cause respiratory illness and allergic reactions in humans and their pets. Mold alarms monitor the amount of mold in the air using several methods. The accuracy of these methods depends greatly on where the mold detector is placed in relation to possible threats.

  • How to Replace the Security Alarm in a New Exterior Door

    Home burglar alarm systems typically use a magnetic-reed switch on doors to detect entry. When the door is closed, a magnet mounted in or on the door closes the reed switch. If the door is opened, the switch opens as the magnet is moved away. When replacing doors in a home with an alarm system, it may be necessary to install the magnet on the new doors. The magnets are either mounted to the surface of the door or mounted in a hole drilled in the side or top of the door.

  • How to Install a House Alarm

    House alarms are designed to alert home dwellers in the event of a fire or an intruder attempting to break in. Home alarms come in many shapes and varieties, with some using wireless technology and others that require connection to your home's electrical supply.

  • How to Burglar-Proof a Window Air Conditioner

    Window air conditioning units are one of a burglar's favorite entry points, according to the Pittsfield Police Department. They lift the window higher to pull the unit out or push it inward. To prevent a burglar's entry as well as the loss of your AC, secure the unit in place with additional hardware. If you have a lightweight unit, you may find it easier to simply remove it from the window when you're away on vacation.

  • How to Install a Horn to My Home Alarm From Monitronics

    Adding internal and external horns to your Monitronics alarm system can boost the effectiveness of the system. Audible alarms not only help scare off would-be intruders, they also draw attention to your property, making it easier for emergency personnel to find your home quickly. In the event you're not at home during an alarm, an audible horn will also alert neighbors and passersby, letting them know there is a problem at your home.

  • How to Hide Computers From Burglars

    Knowing how to hide your computer from burglars can prevent unscrupulous elements from using personal information saved on your computer to steal your identity. If you are going on vacation you wouldn't notice your personal information was missing until you got home. Go beyond locking doors and activating a security system by hiding your computer in plain boxes or in hard to access spots in case of a break-in.

  • The Advantages of Fire Alarms

    A fire alarm is also known as a smoke alarm and a smoke detector. It is basically a device that emits a signal, whether it is a siren, horn or buzzer, as an alert that a fire has started. Advantages of fire alarms include an early warning benefit, low cost and the opportunity to place the device in chosen locations.

  • How to Hide Electronics From Burglars

    Electronics, such as laptop computers and CD players, are the first things to go in a robbery. Burglars seek out electronics because they are easy to resell. In addition, electronics like CD players, DVD players or television sets are usually quite prominently placed in a home, making them an easy target for burglars. To decrease the odds of having your belongings stolen by a burglar, take steps to hide electronics.

  • Burglar & Fire Alarm Installation Training

    Burglar and fire alarm installers are professionals who set up security systems in homes and businesses to protect against intrusion and fires. After being trained in this field, these professionals can work for retail and wholesale distributors, electronic service establishments and in the service departments of electronic manufacturing companies. The mean annual wage of security and fire alarm systems installers as of May 2009 was $39,830, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

  • Benefits of a Burglar Alarm

    Protecting a large investment such as your home is one of the most important things you do as a homeowner. The most common and economical way to protect your home is with a burglar alarm. The burglar alarms of today are high tech but user friendly, making them an ideal home protection choice. The price range of burglar alarms varies depending on the extent of service you want.

  • How to Troubleshoot a Home Alarm

    A home alarm provides the inhabitants with protection against unwanted intruders -- typically in the form of sounding a siren. A regularly malfunctioning home alarm can actually increase the risk of home invasion since its false alarms will be ignored by neighbors. Troubleshoot the problems that cause a home alarm to fail to function so that it can be restored to full use. Household tools and supplies are needed.

  • How to Look for Ways to Protect Homes From Burglars

    Keeping your home safe from intruders is a critical element of protecting both your belongings and your family members. Burglars normally look for homes with obvious weak points and exploit those weaknesses. Addressing possible weaknesses makes a potential burglar less likely to rob your home, as he may feel the payoff does not reflect the increased effort or chance of being caught. Find ways to protect your home by looking for obvious weak spots in your home security.

  • DIY Homemade Alarms

    A trip-wire alarm is often used by the military to provide soldiers with advance warning when they are hunkered down inside a hiding place while on patrol. You can make your own trip-wire alarm using parts acquired from a hobby store and from around the house. Your trip-wire alarm will alert you when someone is approaching an entranceway into your home -- for example, approaching the back door or the back porch. The homemade alarm can't take the place of a professionally installed alarm, but it will provide a warning for the entranceway that it has been designated to guard.

  • How to Make a Homemade Stair Alarm

    A home alarm can be expensive and difficult to install and maintain. A portable alarm can be used to warn you when someone walks up your stairs -- assembling the alarm yourself cuts down on the cost for parts and labor. Supplies from a hobby store and hardware store are needed, as is experience in using a soldering iron. Your homemade stair alarm will not damage the stairs in any way.

  • How to Make a Mailbox Alarm

    A free-standing mailbox on your property doesn't sound any signal when the mail carrier opens the flap to put mail in. But a portable alarm can be used to sound a buzzer when the mailbox is opened. Supplies from a hobby store will be needed, as will tools commonly found around the house. Adult supervision is needed if someone underage is involved in making the mailbox alarm, since power tools will be used.

  • DIY Door Alarm

    Locking a door does not guarantee that no one will be able to enter. You can make a portable door alarm using a laser that will warn you should someone come in unannounced and unwanted. Supplies from a hobby store will be needed, as will tools commonly found around the house. The portable door alarm you will make will not damage the door in any way and can be used on any door that you should so choose.

  • How to Build a Door Alarm

    A door alarm has the singular purpose of sounding an alert when a door has been opened. Your own portable door alarm can be constructed with supplies from a hardware store and a hobby shop. This installation is not permanent, and no extensive electrical skills are needed. Some experience in using a soldering iron is helpful.

  • DIY House Alarm System

    Burglars can intrude on any house, regardless of its location or size. You can set up a house alarm system to protect the doors and windows of your house from burglars. This DIY project requires alarm components acquired from a hobby store or security supply service center. Constructing a wireless house alarm keeps you from having to string wires or damage walls. Household tools are all that you will need.

  • How to Alarm Your Walls

    A wireless home alarm secures a home by providing a warning should someone enter through a door or window. To alarm a wall of your home that someone could break through, add a vibration sensor to the wireless home alarm system you already have in place. The vibration sensor can be acquired from the same place where you got the wireless home alarm and is connected in a similar manner as that of a door or window sensor. No holes will need to be drilled into the wall.

  • How to Troubleshoot a Home Alarm System

    A home alarm system warns the inhabitants when someone unauthorized enters the home. A malfunctioning home alarm presents a danger as its warnings will not be discernible. Troubleshoot the home alarm system to find the source of the problem causing the malfunction, which can then be fixed so that the system operates correctly again. No specialized equipment is needed.

  • How to Make an Alarm Bell

    An alarm goes off when electric current completes a circuit between an electrical source and a device that make noise, for example, a bell. A basic, small homemade alarm that alerts you when a door is opened can be created with supplies from a hobby store. Household tools will be needed, but no special electrical skills. The portability of this alarm will let you take it with you wherever you go.

  • How to Wire a Bike Alarm

    A bike alarm protects an electric-powered bike in much the same way as a car alarm protects a car. A a warning is sounded should someone attempt to move the bike without the alarm having first been disabled. Wiring a bike alarm is a straightforward procedure since all the needed components are supplied with the bike alarm kit. Household tools are all that is needed, along with an understanding of the basic electrical system that the bike uses.

  • Making Your Own Alarm

    An alarm, at its most basic, sounds off when electricity from a power source completes a circuit going from the power to a noise-making device -- for example, an electric-powered bell. A homemade security alarm can be made to sound off if anyone steps on a mat placed in front of a door, for instance. You will need supplies from a hobby store and a few household tools, as well as some competency in using a soldering iron. If a child wants to try this project, adult supervision is a must.

  • How to Make a Trigger for a Burglar Alarm

    A home burglar alarm's purpose is to warn that an intruder has broken into a home, for example, through a window. To hide the alarm sensor that is attached to the window from the intruder's sight, use a trigger to set off the alarm when the window is opened instead. Supplies from a hardware store will be needed, as will tools common to most households. No special electrical skills are needed, although experience with a soldering iron will be helpful.

  • How to Make a Silent-Entry Door Alarm

    The purpose of an alarm is to provide warning to the one using the alarm, not the one who has set it off. You can make a silent-entry door alarm using parts acquired from a hobby store and a few household tools. Previous experience in using a soldering iron will make this project proceed more smoothly than if you have never used one before.

  • How to Use The Reporter Wireless Alarm

    The Chamberlain Reporter wireless alarm (a.k.a., "Reporter" alarm) is a motion sensing device that provides a warning when motion is detected. The Reporter can be used in a home to protect an entrance way--for example, a window. The Reporter operates wirelessly, which makes installation easy.

  • DIY Wireless Alarm Systems That Will Cover the House & the Garage

    A wireless alarm system relies on a wireless network, not wires, to connect sensors mounted on entrance ways leading into the home. To protect both the home and the garage, employ a series of sensors that can be attached to doors and windows. A sensor-activated wireless alarm system can be acquired from select hobby shops and some home and garden supply stores. Household tools will be needed to install the sensors, but neither mechanical or electrical skills are necessary to set up your do-it-yourself wireless alarm system.

  • How to Convert a Wireless Doorbell to a Wired One

    A wireless doorbell can fail to work if interference interrupts its wireless network connection. To avoid this and other problems that a wireless network can cause, hard-wire the doorbell to the receiver instead. The procedure is straightforward but does involve some experience in electrical wiring and using a soldering iron. You will need some supplies from an electronic store for this conversion, as well as a few common household tools.

  • How to Hook Up a Horn to My Existing Home Alarm System

    Many home alarm systems can benefit from the addition of a horn to alert the neighbors and warn off an intruder who has entered the home. To add a horn or siren to your existing wireless alarm system, mount a horn where it can be heard and configure the alarm system to accept its presence. The horn can be acquired from the same location where you purchased the existing alarm system.

  • DIY: Home-security Alarm System

    A basic home-security alarm system notifies you when an intruder enters your home through a door or a window. You can easily set up a wireless system purchased from a hobby store, home-improvement store, or home-security supply center. This do-it-yourself project requires only tools that are commonly available in most homes. Your computer's home network, if you have one, will not be compromised in any way by your new wireless home-security alarm system.

  • Why a Burglar Alarm Is Better Than a Guard Dog

    Homeowners live with a very real fear that one day an intruder may break into their home. Many homeowners choose to get a guard dog to protect themselves, or sign up for a home security system. While guard dogs make homeowners feel more secure, and often become like a member of the family, burglar alarms have several benefits over using a canine for protection.

  • DIY: Hardwired Home Alarm Using Magnetic Switches

    The purpose of an alarm is to make a sound when an action -- for example, a window being opened -- occurs. Make your own home alarm using a magnetic switch and wiring (referred to as "hardwired") so that a buzzer sounds if a window is opened. This do-it-yourself (DIY) project requires a few supplies from a hobby store and hardware store as well as household tools.

  • Do It Yourself: Burglar Alarms for Homes

    A burglar alarm detects when an entranceway into the home, for example, a window, is disturbed. You can install a burglar alarm yourself to protect a window without having to modify the window or the house. A wireless vibration sensor will send a signal to a receiver which will set off an alarm if the window is shaken, opened or broken into. You will need tools common to most homes and you can acquire the alarm from select hobby shops or a security alarm center supply store.

  • How to Install a Motorbike Alarm

    A compact motorcycle alarm system is designed to protect motorcycles but will also work on motorbikes. The alarm wires directly to the bike's battery and so can be used no matter where the bike comes to a rest. Installing a compact motorcycle alarm system is straightforward and does not require purchasing any special tools, as everything needed is included. The bike can be left unmodified, as the system can be taped in place rather than secured by screws or other permanent modification.

  • How to Build Your Own Burglar Alarm Pressure Mat

    A burglar alarm is designed to warn you when any unauthorized person enters a doorway in your home. Build your own burglar alarm pressure mat to sound a warning. You can purchase the equipment you need from a hobby store and a hardware store. You will also need tools from the hardware store, although you probably already own some of the tools required. Your burglar alarm will rely on battery power and so will operate even if the electric lines to the house are disconnected.

  • How to Install a Stealth Alarm

    An alarm system can warn off an intruder, inform on an intruder, or both. To make a stealth alarm that the intruder will be unaware of, create a silent wireless alarm using a telephone dialer that calls authorized personnel when a break-in occurs. Get wireless alarm systems from hobby shops and electronics stores, and the rest of the supplies and tools you need from a hardware store and from around the house.

  • How to Make a Compact Alarm System

    An alarm system is designed to make noise when an electrical contact -- for example, a switch -- sends electricity to a bell or siren. To make a compact alarm system that can be taken with you -- for example, for use in a motel on the ground floor where the window doesn't lock -- assemble supplies from a hobby store and tools commonly found around the house. This system sounds an alarm if a window attached to the alarm opens vertically. No special electrical abilities are required.

  • How to Alarm Louvered Windows

    Wiring a window with a sensor enables the alarm system to detect when the window is being disturbed. There are a number of ways to apply sensors to a louvered window so it can be protected by an alarm system. The procedures are straightforward and, with minor differences, similar to installing sensors on windows that open vertical or horizontally. You will need tools common to most households and alarm sensors you can get from the same store or security retailer that supplied the alarm system.

  • DIY Wireless Hybrid Alarm Systems

    A wireless alarm can activate a light or a horn to warn the inhabitants of a house that an intruder has entered. To make a hybrid wireless alarm that uses a siren powered by the house's electricity, acquire the horn from a hardware store and a wireless alarm kit from a security supply shop. Tools that are commonly found in the home will be needed, as will a basic understanding of how electricity works.

  • How to Make a Simple Electric Eye

    The electric eye is the name for a device that has been in use since 1931. It is the latest innovation in a long array of devices to automatically open doors. A central element of the electric eye is a beam of light --this can be visible light or almost any other part of the light spectrum. Infra Red (IR) is very popular. When a person, or animal, breaks the beam of light, a relay is tripped and electric current goes to some device to do some work. Typically current goes to a motor that opens a door.

  • DIY Autodial Wireless Burglar Alarm System

    A wireless burglar alarm doesn't betray its presence to an intruder because there are no visible wires. To further hide the presence of the alarm, use a telephone autodial system to inform authorized personnel when someone breaks into your home through the front door, rather than having an alarm go off. Your do-it-yourself (DIY) autodialing alarm will require parts from a home security supply store (or select electronics shops) and tools that are common to most homes.

  • How to Compare Alarm System Monthly Service Fees

    With hundreds of home alarm companies to choose from, it is easy to get overwhelmed when making the choice about who will provide your alarm system. Each company has several plans to choose from, with different coverage and costs to go along with them. An organized plan to compare alarm system fees will make the decision much easier.

  • How to Install Wired Home Security Systems

    A wired home security system operates on the basic principle of detecting a loss of current from sensors attached to doors and windows in the home. To install a wired home security system, be prepared to run wires across the length of the home from the sensors to a control panel. A wired home security system can be acquired from select home and garden shops and security supply service centers. A few household tools will be needed. You will not have to subscribe to any service to use the security system that you have wired in your home.

  • DIY Burgler Alarm

    A burglar alarm provides a warning to the homeowner when an unauthorized person enters a home. A do-it-yourself (DIY) burglar alarm that will protect a window of your choosing, such as a window leading to the backyard, can be put together using a stand-alone alarm motion sensor. The motion sensor can be acquired from an electronics store or select hobby shops. A few common tools that are found around the house will be needed, as will a camera tripod.

  • How to Wire a Spy Alarm

    Spies in movies often set up elaborate devices that warn them if someone enters the room that they are in. You can make your own "spy" alarm that will sound a warning whenever someone opens the door it is attached to. A wireless doorbell acquired from a hobby store or a home and garden shop will be needed, as will a few tools found around the house.

  • DIY: Wireless Alarm

    A wireless alarm typically consists of a sensor that detects someone entering your home by a door or window and a transmitter that sends the sensor's signal wirelessly to a receiver, which sounds an alarm. You can make a do-it-yourself (DIY) wireless alarm by adapting a wireless doorbell for the task. The procedure is straightforward and requires a few tools found around the house. A partial disassembly of the wireless doorbell will be required.

  • How to Add Wireless Sensors to Your Hardwired Security System

    Sensors enable a security system to monitor entryways such as doors and windows. A wireless security sensor can be added to an existing security system that uses wiring to connect sensors to the control panel. This eliminates safety concerns that otherwise would occur if wires had to be strung for great distances, such as from a backyard shed's door. A wireless security sensor kit can be acquired from select hardware and home and garden shops. Adding wireless security sensors requires the use of a few common household tools and does not negatively affect the wired security system in any way.

  • How to Disable a Window Sensor on a House Alarm

    A wired home-alarm system uses sensors to monitor entrances to a home, such as windows in the living room or bedroom or even a bathroom. To disable a single window sensor, remove the sensor from the window so that it no longer can send a signal to the alarm system. The same tools used to install the sensor will let you remove it.

  • How to Mount a Wireless Chime Transmitter

    A door chime provides an aural signal that someone is at the door. A battery-powered wireless chime transmitter sends a signal to a receiver inside the home -- with no wires needed. A few household tools are all that's necessary to install the chime transmitter to the door. No electrical skills are required.

  • How to Block a Wireless Alarm

    A wireless alarm uses a built-in Wi-Fi network to connect sensors placed throughout the home with a "command center" control panel. A defective alarm sensor can cause the wireless alarm system to function erratically, sending out false alarm signals that can disturb the home's inhabitants as well as inure them to a real threat. To block or disable the alarm sensor that is causing the wireless alarm to be set off, disconnect it from the system altogether as this won't shut down the entire system. The procedure is similar whether the sensor is connected to a window or door, although…

  • How to Use a Wireless Home Alarm

    A wireless alarm benefits from a wireless network that allows home entryways protection regardless of each alarm sensor's proximity to the control panel, coordinating the overall home security system. To use a wireless alarm properly, set the system to register the sensors that are attached to each entryway. The procedure, while varying depending on the wireless security system's manufacturer, does not require special electronic skills.

  • Monitored Alarms Vs. Non-Monitored Alarms

    The equipment for an alarm system is only half of the package for many homeowners who prefer to have a monitored system where, if the alarm goes off, someone is notified and will call the authorities for them. Other homeowners are satisfied with just an alarm that will alert the people in the home.

  • How to Sound Activate a Siren Alarm

    There are various home alarm systems designed to give you peace of mind. One of them is a sound-activated siren alarm. This means that a built-in microphone picks up sounds to sense when someone is near the alarm. Once the alarm is activated, the siren will blare.

  • DIY Basic Wireless Alarm System

    A basic wireless alarm sounds out an alert when there is an interruption of the signal being sent from the transmitter to the receiver. You can set up a basic wireless alarm system to protect your front door, providing you've purchased a wireless alarm sensor plate transmission/reception kit from a hobby store or electronics shop. The installation does not require any special tools, nor must you have any knowledge of how a wireless network is set up: The transmitter and receiver will automatically seek each other out on their own.

  • How to Make a Room Security Alarm

    While doors are secured with locks and security chains, often windows are vulnerable to intruders. If you are concerned someone might gain entry to a room through a window, you can build a security alarm that will sound when the window sill is raised. All you need for this project are a few supplies from an electronics or home improvement store, some household tools and a basic familiarity with electricity.

  • DIY Security Alarms for a Garage

    A garage, whether attached to a house or free standing, often stores valuables besides the obvious storage of a car when not in use. You can provide your own DIY security system that will sound an alert if someone opens the garage door. You will need a stand-alone motion detector that has a built-in alarm, a few supplies from a hardware store and some common tools that you may already have in the garage.

  • DIY Laser Alarm

    A laser alarm relies on a beam of laser light to trip a circuit or activate a device that can then sound an alarm. You can construct a do-it-yourself laser alarm from supplies you purchase at an electronics store or security supply center, including a low-powered red laser pointer. You will also need a few basic household supplies to complete the project.

  • How to Make Your Own Simple Burglar Alarm

    The purpose of a burglar alarm is to let you know that a space has been invaded by an unauthorized person. You can make your own simple burglar alarm. A few supplies from an electronics store will be needed, as well as tools and materials that are common in most homes. No advanced electronic skills are required, but adult supervision may be required for the use of a soldering iron.

  • How to Troubleshoot Burglar Alarms

    Burglar alarm systems do not need to be expensive or professionally installed in order to perform their purpose of protecting your home. An installed burglar alarm is composed of a number of components that must operate in concert if the alarm is to work properly. Inspect a malfunctioning or nonfunctioning burglar alarm right away. You can troubleshoot the burglar alarm to discern what the problem is; often you can rectify the issue yourself. No special tools or equipment will be needed.

  • How to Compare Alarm Systems

    Choosing the right alarm systems for a new home or apartment takes time and research. Alarm systems save lives, and because of their importance consumers should compare alarm systems before making a final decision. Finding an alarm system is about more than making an affordable choice, it is about locating a reputable company that offers a system with a consistent performance history.

  • How to Make a Door Alarm by Using a Laser

    Laser alarm systems are popular because of their accuracy and ease of use. They can be built at home with a few supplies that can be found at electronic supply shops. There are three basic components to this system: the buzzer or siren, the trigger and the power source. For a laser door alarm, the laser is the trigger. It is sounds the alarm any time the beam of light is broken.

  • How to Replace an Old Wired Alarm System

    If you have an old, wired alarm system in your home, you can update it by replacing the wiring with wireless transmitters. By doing this, you can continue to use the sensor plates that are already installed in the windows and doors, while gaining the maintenance-free advantages of a wireless system. You will need a standard wireless security system that includes wireless transmitters and a wireless control panel. Such systems are generally available at electronics stores. You'll also need to use a few household tools.

  • The Advantages of Wireless Home Burglar Alarms

    Home security systems are an important and common investment for homes of any size and value. You can't put a price on the peace of mind it gives you to know that the police will instantly be notified of any unwanted intruder who trips a sensor somewhere in the house. The increasing popularity of wireless consumer electronics devices has led to the availability of wireless home security systems, which in some ways are superior and in some ways inferior to traditional, wired home security systems. The choice of which to purchase for use in your home is an entirely personal…

  • My DSL Light Won't Come On

    Though its popularity has been rather eclipsed by cable modems and T1 Internet, digital subscriber line (DSL) Internet is still a popular and widely used form of Internet access. DSL uses a landline telephone connection to deliver Internet access but does not tie up the phone line like dial-up access does. A DSL modem will typically feature a "DSL," "Link," or "Line" light; whether the light is dark, blinking or solid indicates whether or not the DSL modem is successfully communicating with your provider's DSL network. Luckily, a DSL light that does not light up at all is typically a…

  • Can Fire Alarms Work With Other Protection Systems?

    Fire alarms provide indication of structure fires while its occupants are sleeping or otherwise occupied. They may be unmonitored and give an audible signal for occupants to vacate, or monitored and give the audible indication as well as trigger a response by emergency officials. These safety devices can be integrated with other protection systems for well-rounded safety monitoring.

  • Burglar Motion Sensor Vs. Window Contact

    Keeping would-be burglars out of your home involves thinking like a criminal and stopping the crime before it happens. Motion sensors monitor the outside of your home, while window contact alarms alert you when someone opens the monitored window.

  • How to Install Window Sensors for a Wireless Burglar Alarm

    A window sensor is designed to register a disturbance when its companion sensor plate is no longer making contact. You can install window sensors to use with a wireless burglar alarm without the need for any extra wires or special tools. A tool common to most homes is all that is needed, along with the wood screws that come with the window sensor when it is purchased from a hardware store or security store supplier.

  • How to Install a Wireless Alarm

    A wireless alarm provides advanced warning from an intruder breaking into your home. To install a wireless alarm, purchase a kit containing a sensor alarm transmitter and a receiver unit. These kits are available from hobby stores as well as electronic shops, and many can be upgraded later to cover more than one entranceway into your home. No special tools are needed, nor do you have to set up a wireless network, as the wireless transmitter and receiver automatically seek out and connect to each other once activated.

  • How to Use an Existing Alarm System Without a Monthly Charge

    As much as you want to protect your family and property, a monthly charge for an alarm system can be a drain on your budget. You can do away with a monthly charge by having an unmonitored system. The sound of a siren going off on an unmonitored system can still deter a would-be burglar, since he doesn't know the alarm isn't monitored. If you prefer to have a monitored system, you can download free or inexpensive software that notifies you when an incident occurs. Because there's no monitoring contract, there's no monthly charge.

  • How to Remove a DSL Signal From a Phone Line

    DSL is high-speed Internet access that is run through a phone line. While this makes it easy to install and to use, in some cases owners may experience line noise. This typically involves pops and crackles on the line during phone conversations, but it can also include echoing and in some cases high-pitched whining noises. If DSL is installed on every jack in the home, this noise will affect every phone extension. In order to get rid of this line noise, you must install a filter at every jack where a phone will be used.

  • Burglar Alarm Components

    Home alarm systems provide added security to a home by triggering an alarm, alerting everyone in the home to an intrusion and also sending a signal to law enforcement to send a dispatcher to the home to investigate the cause of the alarm. Homeowners have a variety of sensor components to choose from when setting up a home alarm system.

  • How to Make a Homemade Burglar Alarm Using a Laser Pointer

    An intruder or burglar entering your home needs to be frightened off so he will leave. You can make a homemade burglar alarm using a laser pointer and some hobby store purchases that will sound an alarm that tells the burglar he has been discovered. No electrical wiring experience is necessary.

  • How to Make a Broken Beam Alarm

    A broken beam alarm is triggered when someone breaks a beam of light -- usually the light is infrared (IR) so it will be invisible to the intruder. The system is somewhat counterintuitive -- if you break a circuit, it sends current to the alarm, and then when the beam is restored, the current that goes to the alarm does not go off. The behavior of broken beam alarms is created by using separate power supplies and two relays that control each other's access to power.

  • Buying Tips for Burglar Alarms

    Many burglar alarm companies require an in-home consultation to determine the needs of the consumer. There are many options and services offered to consumers to alleviate fears of criminal intrusion. Identifying and choosing a burglar alarm system company is tough, however the decision is easier when a client knows what to look for.

  • Pet-Friendly Burglar Alarms

    As a nation of animal lovers, the majority of households include at least one pet. Our furry friends are often left alone while we’re at work or out for the day, but their activities can cause trouble for some traditional home-protection devices. Older devices did not distinguish between human and animal movement, and could frequently send off false alarms. In recent years, the home-alarm industry has addressed these issues. Though no system is foolproof, new technology makes it easier for homes and pets to stay safe when owners are away.

  • How Do Motion Sensing Lights and Burglar Alarms Work?

    Safety has become an important concern for home and business owners. Rather than rely on manpower to keep locations safe, motion detectors have gained in popularity.

  • How to Rate Burglar Alarms

    Rating burglar alarms requires basic research skills. You must be willing to spend some time reviewing several websites and speaking with monitoring providers. Looking at package prices, features and the product are fundamental to making the best decision. Burglar alarm systems aim to prevent crime, and they contact the police when there is motion detected within the home or workplace. To rate burglar alarms, review independent resources, attempt scheduling face-to-face location evaluations and use reported customer service experiences to help rate them for reliability and cost.

  • Problems with Burglar Alarms

    Burglar alarms are a good idea for home owners who are concerned with their homes being invaded by a thief. At the very least, the burglar alarm will alert the home owner to a home invasion so that he can take defensive measures. Many burglar alarm systems send signals to the police station so that police can come by to help the home owner. However, there are some potential problems that home owners with burglar alarms should be aware of.

  • How Is a Burglar Alarm Triggered?

    Burglar alarms are designed to protect your home from intruders by detecting entry from unauthorized people. Sensors detect motion, heat or forced entry and, when triggered, sound an alarm or contact a security company or both. Once a burglar alarm is triggered, you need to enter an alarm code to cancel it.

  • Types of Occupancy Sensors Used for Burglar Alarms

    Occupancy sensors are indoor lighting controls that detect motion, or activity, in specific areas or within certain parameters. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, they are more energy efficient and convenient in comparison to regular switch-activated or timed lighting systems, as they automatically shutdown when the last occupant of a room has left. The sensors also turn on automatically when a person enters a particular space, which makes them incredibly effective for use in burglar alarm systems.

  • Information on Burglar Alarms

    Home security is of the utmost importance to many homeowners who seek to protect the safety and security of their family, home and personal property. A properly designed and installed security system will trigger an appropriate response to many different types of emergencies and provide protection and peace of mind.

  • How to Convert to an Unmonitored Security System

    Monitored home alarm systems communicate to a central alarm monitoring station and provide coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Personnel at the monitoring station will send help if an alarm triggers. The added level of protection comes with added costs: the homeowner needs to pay the security company a monthly fee to monitor the system. The fee is paid regardless of whether an alarm is triggered. Converting to an unmonitored system saves you the monthly monitoring cost.

  • How Wireless Burglar Alarms Work

    A wireless burglar alarm is a device that automatically gives off an alarm when windows, doors or other secured properties are intruded or disturbed by an unauthorized person. People uses wireless burglar alarms to protect their home and business. The alarms are linked to a call center that calls to confirm a break-in and ensure that every one is safe.

  • Homemade Burglar Alarms

    Professional burglar alarms use high-tech equipment to secure your home. As complicated as they may be, however, they're all based around very simple concepts: a trigger sets off an alarm, which can be as blatant as a loud noise or as subtle as a prerecorded phone call to the police. Once you understand those concepts, you can build a burglar alarm with just a few household items. It won't be fancy, but it can help you secure doors and windows without spending any money.

  • Monitored Alarms vs. Nonnonitored Alarms

    There are two different ways to conduct surveillance of a burglar alarm system. One way is to have it monitored; the other way is to only have a local alarm installed.

  • How to Compare Burglar Alarm Systems

    With the current economic picture, homeowners and small businesspeople have become increasingly aware of their vulnerability to burglary. Subsequently, many have been checking around for the best possible alarm system at the most reasonable price. But where to look is another matter, so keep in mind that it is always wise to receive at least three quotes for any burglar alarm system. There are different schemes and levels of security to choose from.

  • How to Rate Burglar Alarm Systems

    Burglar alarm hook-ups have become almost as common as cable and with good reason. People are becoming more security-conscious of what they stand to lose. System installation has become more affordable, too. However, the types of devices and detectors that are available have grown. Subsequently, it is wise to first check around for a system tailored to your specific needs. There are several companies to choose from, so it is best to have a working knowledge of alarms before one is installed in your home.

  • How to Find the Best Burglar Alarm System

    Selecting the best burglar alarm system to protect your home and family is a personal decision. The perfect alarm monitoring system for your friends, neighbors and relatives may not be right for your home. Your lifestyle and the occupants in the home affect the type of system you choose. Remember that power and phone line outages may affect the reliability of your burglar alarm. It is vital that you make the right decision when investigating the different alarm systems available on the market.

  • How to Install DSL and a Burglar Alarm on the Same Telephone Line

    Burglar alarm systems use telephone lines to communicate with central monitoring stations, often the same lines used for DSL Internet connections. DSL can interfere with the alarm system, and the alarm system also can interfere with the DSL service, so a filter is required. Alarm systems need an in-line alarm system filter that makes sure the DSL does not interfere with the alarm system.

  • Do Burglar Alarms Work?

    Burglar alarms have become so common that many new homes are built with burglar alarms pre-installed. But do they work? If you know how to use the alarms and you have the correct equipment installed, the answer is definitely, yes. If you do not use them properly, or they are incorrectly installed, you may get a false sense of security that may place your family and property at risk.

  • How Do Burglars Disable Alarms?

    Most door and window alarms rely on a magnet attached to the door or window and a sensor which connects to the central control box attached to the sill or doorframe. When the home alarm is armed, the sensor passes a small electrical current to the magnet. The magnet acts as a conductor across the tiny distance and returns the current. Only when the current is not returned, such as if the door or window were opened, does the alarm sound. By passing a length of foil through the seam in a door or window, the foil does the same…

  • Ultrasonic Burglar Alarms & How They Work

  • The Origin of Burglar Alarms

    Burglar alarms are used throughout the world and various systems can be installed to protect against problems other than break-ins. Most recently designed alarm systems will also respond to dangers of fire and flood and summon police, fire, and emergency medical teams to the home or business in which the alarm is installed.

  • Do it Yourself Wireless Burglar Alarm

    Wireless home security systems are available for a do-it-yourself installation. There are no contracts and no fees if you choose not to have the system professionally monitored. When an intruder is activated by the device, it flashes the house's lights, operates an included siren and operates a multiple number voice dialer system, which can be your phone number or a security-monitoring firm. If you press a certain digit on getting the call, you can listen in at your home.

  • About Burglar Alarms

    There are several different types of burglar alarms available and deciding which one to choose from depends on how aggressive crime is in an area, cost, ease of installation and particular type of crime. Burglar alarms can create piece of mind with the home owner and pay for themselves in the instance that a crime is averted or criminals are caught.

  • The Significance of the Burglar Alarm

    The home security system has become an invaluable member of the modern home. Hardly a day passes without being exposed to television, radio, or print ads from security firms wishing to equip more homes with burglar alarms. What's behind this media blitz? And why are so many homeowners buying into their promotions?

  • What Is the History of the Burglar Alarm?

    Burglar alarms have been around for thousands of years. The most basic alarm used by ancient humans was the dog. It would protect property and guard against people who were attempting to take valuables. Over time, humans used other tricks like chimes to warn them against burglars. Modern burglar alarms, however, are far more elaborate and use advanced forms of technology.

  • Burglar Alarm Making

    There are three main types of alarms: Burglar, fire and safety. The two types of burglar alarms are open and closed, which both run off circuits. The alarm itself is made of one electric circuit and a switch. A closed-circuit system means that the door is shut to close the circuit. When the door is closed, electricity flows from end to end of the circuit. If the door is opened, the current can't flow and it triggers the alarm.

  • How Does a Burglar Alarm Work?

    Burglar alarms can costs as little as $10 for the most basic unit, or a homeowner can spend a lot more to have one professionally installed and monitored. There are two basic types of burglar alarms, one that monitors the forced entry of an intruder, and one that sets off an alarm if the intruder is inside the house. To detect an intruder entering your house, install a device that will activate when a door or a window is opened. It is called an electric circuit. Just like a flashlight, you flip a switch and the light goes off because…

  • How Does a Security Alarm Sticker Frighten Burglars?

    Burglars are opportunistic criminals who often watch the houses they want to break into so they know when the residents are home and away. They wait until the time comes when they can get in and out without being seen. That time is usually late at night, when the neighbors are asleep and they can move in under the cover of darkness. The one thing that can fend off a burglar when nobody is watching is an alarm system. When one is installed on the premises, the burglar knows it, because it comes with stickers.

  • How to Make a Laser Burglar Alarm

    Though it has more high-tech components than a traditional burglar alarm, a laser burglar alarm still uses the same three basic elements: a siren, a trigger and a power source. In the case of a laser alarm, the trigger is a beam of light, which activates when something crosses it and sets off the siren. You can make a laser burglar alarm of your own using a few simple components found at your local Radio Shack.

  • How to Build Burglar Alarms

    Burglar alarms can be simple or complex, but all of them are built around three basic components: a bell or alarm, a battery to power it, and a trigger switch. When someone triggers the switch, it completes the circuit (or disconnects the circuit in some cases) and the alarm sounds. You can make a burglar alarm of your own with very simple materials, using this basic formula as a guide.

  • How to Make Your Own Burglar Alarm

    This is a plan for a very simple burglar alarm. When the door is opened, it will close the circuit, causing a buzzer to sound. It has the advantages of being easy to put together and cheap to assemble. On the down side, it is not very secure, since it can be easily disconnected. It makes a great basic electronic project or temporary safety measure.

  • Installing a Burglar Alarm

    The best part of having a burglar alarm installed in your home is not that it will scare robbers away before they take your stuff, but that it will often keep them from attempting to enter your home in the first place. Instead of shelling out large bucks for a company to install your alarm for you, it is very possible to do it yourself, especially if you are accustomed to working with electricity.

  • About ADT Burglar Alarms

    ADT Security Services is one of the world's leading manufacturers of fire alarm systems, building management systems, communication systems and electronic security systems. Once called American District Telegraph, ADT is now a large division of Tyco International and it supplies some of the best and most advanced burglar alarm systems on the market.

  • How to Wire a Burglar Alarm

    You can make a burglar alarm at home without having to spend a ton of money on equipment. This handy gadget will guard the fridge, the garage or the front door. You can also keep your kids in their room and know if they try to sneak out. The following project simply requires old shoe boxes and other household items.

  • How to Circumvent a Burglar Alarm System

    Do you know the weaknesses of your burglar alarm system? Learning how to bypass your own security system is the best way to fine-tune it so that a burglar cannot get in. This article will show you how to bypass a security system at the most vulnerable spot: the windows.

  • How to Use Security Alarm Stickers to Frighten Burglars

    Whether you are using a home security system or not, security alarm stickers can help to scare off burglars. Here's how to make them work for you.

  • How to Test a burglar alarm system

    Your burglar alarm system won't keep your safe if it's not working properly. Be sure to test your security system monthly at the very least. But make sure you do it right-false alarms cost consumers and commercial companies thousands of dollars a year. Gaps in your burglar alarm system and false alarms can be avoided if you know the proper way to test a burglar alarm system.

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