Burglar alarm device - what are my options?

[elsmandino]

Hi there,

I, unfortunately, suffered a burglary last month and the detectives dealing with the case have strongly suggested that I stick a DIY alarm system in.

The problem is that there are so many brands and types and also wireless and wired that I am not sure really where to begin.

I have heard that wireless systems are better as they are less prone to going off accidentally but any advice for a novice would be much appreciated.

 

[bernardgreen]

I have heard that wireless systems are better as they are less prone to going off accidentally but any advice for a novice would be much appreciated.

Wired is better

This control unit and siren are equipped withthe latest type of radio receiver using AM radio technology. If interference detection is set to ‘on’ in the siren, when the system is armed, any criminal attempt to prevent (or jam) the detector transmissions will be picked up as interference and will cause the siren to alarm. The control unit can be set to display or report (by dialling out, not sounding alarm) when interference is detected.
If the alarm is frequently triggered by interference there may be high levels of unusual radio signals in your area. Some kinds of electronic equipment can generate this kind of radio interference. In the unlikely event of you experiencing
problems with interference, it is recommended that you switch jamming detection off.

That is effectively the same as turning off the tamper system.

The "" unusual"" radio signals can come from home automation systems, remote control systems, baby monitors and a host of other legal equipment. There is also illegal equipment designed to jam wireless systems.
Wireless systems using two way communications are better than those using one way communications.

 

[footprints]

Worth having a read through this thread.

http://www.diynot.com/forums/alarms-cctv-telephones/wireless-alarm-which-one-to-buy.375620/

I agree that wired is less prone to trouble, same as Broadband, my wireless laptop has trouble from time to time but the hardwired desktop is ultra reliable.

For diy however wireless is much the simplist route, bear in mind few burglars are up to hacking a system and it's the deterrent of the siren box that is 90% of the protection!

 

[bernardgreen]

bear in mind few burglars are up to hacking a system

The equipment that knocks out a wireless system can be bought on the internet.

and it's the deterrent of the siren box that is 90% of the protection!

A DIY branded siren may deter the less well informed burglar, it has little effect on a seasoned burglar.

No siren will stop the smash, grab and run burglar. They know they have a minute or so before any one reacts to the siren. Too many false alarms and neighbours will not react to the siren.

 

[footprints]

I take your points Bernard, but most criminals are not even worthy of the name burglar, they are just chancers who see an easy target and go for it.

Nothing will keep a "Mission Impossible" style expert out, but unless you live in the stockbroker belt you are mostly looking at guys armed with nothing more than a crowbar, a boot or something nicked from the garden shed by way of housebreaking equipment.

At home I have a professionally installed and maintained NACOSS system, but then I'm a belt and braces kind of bloke.

The suggestion from the police was a diy alarm, on balance diy wireless is the simplest and quickest to get up and running without lots of wiring. The kind of oiks who do most of the break ins won't be wondering whether it's wireless or not they will be too busy breaking in next door

Regards,
footprints