Burglar Alarms Made Out of Electromagnets

According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report for 2008, 79 percent of burglars in Pennsylvania entered through a window or door on the first floor.

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.

How it Works

Burglar alarms that use electromagnets consist of a battery, a magnetic switch in the door or window frame, a control panel and buzzer. An electromagnetic alarm uses a relay system to monitor the home. The systems are either open- or closed-circuits. In open-circuit systems, opening the door or window completes the electrical flow and sounds the alarm. In closed-circuit systems, interruption of the electric flow triggers the alarm.

Advantages

Electromagnetic alarm systems are very popular because they are inexpensive and easy to install. They are reliable if they are correctly installed and armed. You can purchase a do-it-yourself kit or build your own if you have an understanding of electrical circuits.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, an intruder is able to easily defeat an electromagnetic alarm system because of its simplicity. The burglar can use a strong magnet or a wire to maintain the electromagnetic connection while opening the door or window. The wire of an open-circuit system can be cut before entering, and the breach will go undetected.

Tips

Burglar alarms have increased in sophistication with advances in technology. Systems that utilize home security cameras, motion detectors and even biometrics are becoming more affordable for residential and commercial property owners. Biometrics utilizes a fingerprint scan to grant access to the home. You can increase the effectiveness of your burglar alarm by mixing the different types or create a one-of-a-kind system that offers greater protection. Teach everyone living or working on the property how to arm and disarm the system correctly.