How to Install a Home Security Alarm System

If you don’t mind getting dirty and sweaty, you can install a home security alarm system. The biggest part of the job will be stringing all the cables required to let the components of the home alarm system communicate with each other.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• home security alarm system
• tools

1. Install main control board. This board handles all the signals from the cameras, lights and sensors that make up your home security alarm system and may send signals to a security company. So, the control board needs power and a telephone or cable hookup.

2. Place door sensors on all entry doors. Make sure that the magnetic switches or other sensors cleanly separate when the door is opened. Run the signal cable back to the main control board.

3. Install window sensors so that an alarm will be triggered when a window is opened. As with door sensors you need to be sure that the sensor trips when the window is opened. Run the signal cable back to the main control board.

4. Position glass break alarms so that the security provided by the window sensors is complemented by theses secondary alarms. Run the signal cable back to the main control board.

5. Install a remote control panel beside the main entry door. The remote control panel allows you to arm and disarm the security alarm system when you enter or leave your home. Run signal cable to the main control board.

6. Test or calibrate the remote control panel, door and window sensors and the glass break alarms with the main control board. Set passcodes that you will use to arm or disarm the system.

Tips & Warnings

• When you install the main control board you may have to call in a professional electrician to tie the board into the home’s power supply. If you do the job yourself, remember to turn off the proper circuit before hooking up the power.
• Many home security alarm system companies offer professional installation of their products, so if you have to admit defeat, you can still get the system installed.
• Be very careful when installing electronic equipment. Depending on local building codes, you may be required to call in a professional to do the wiring.