The Ingenious Workings of Smart Security Systems

Home security is a key consideration for any homeowner or premises owner. With the influx of innumerable products in the market, it is possible to be overwhelmed by the extensive range of choices. Traditional forms of security systems relied solely on an alarm but home automation has since advanced immensely to incorporate intelligence. Hence, such systems are now dubbed smart security systems. Since their debut, smart security systems have continuously evolved. For example, older systems required contracts, a professional installer, and required hardware and customer support to be on standby. Contemporary smart security systems now allow the user to perform all functions autonomously. This article describes how smart security systems work.

Components of Smart Security Systems

Motion Sensors

Motion sensors are crucial components of smart security systems and perform a wide variety of functions. The sensors primarily detect movement and perform roles such as turning on the lights both in the indoor and outdoor setting, turning alarms on and off, and activating different cameras.

Indoor and Outdoor Surveillance Cameras

Cameras perform critical functions in smart security systems. The devices record activities in the home or yard and send the feed directly to mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. Also, the cameras can send recorded footage in predetermined storage points such as the cloud. Cameras can be placed in strategic areas including near the doorbell, garage door, back alley etc.

Currently, the capability of security cameras is advancing with some cameras now able to analyze data and discover patterns from the data they collect. The advanced cameras keep a log of any individual who accessed a specific area. Such cameras are ideal for businesses because they can collect information regarding employees and customers. However, they can also be used in the home setting as they offer the potential to collect data and give an insightful report about the potential for a burglary incident.

Glass Break Detectors

The glass break detectors can detect sound frequencies associated with shattering glass, and thus set off the alarm. Such systems are essential because they can notify the owner of the home or premises when an intruder attempts to gain entry by breaking windows or doors. Such sensors are positioned near any glass that a homeowner desires.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are different from smoke detectors. In many homes, numerous people are admitted to the hospital due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Due to the odorless and colorless nature of the gas, it is not easy to detect it just by smelling. Therefore, CO detectors can be installed to ensure the safety of the home.

Sensors at the Doors and Windows

Window and door sensors are installed to detect the opening of windows or doors, and subsequently trigger burglary alarms. When the door is locked, two sensors form a complete closed circuit. Therefore, opening a door or window breaks the circuit and raises alarm.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are installed in numerous smart security systems. The detectors sense smoke and trigger alarms. Some advanced detectors also notify the owner regarding the precise location of the room where the smoke is emanating from by speaking out loud.

How the Smart System Works

The smart system is a combination of the above components including a control panel. The system works by ensuring that the separate components communicate with the central/core controller/control panel. Each of the components has a computer chip embedded in the device which allows transmission of data between the core controllers and the devices.

Due to the wireless signal transmission, the devices do not need wires to send and receive messages. The signals transmitted allow computers to send information to other components within the system that cannot function without smart capabilities, thus setting off a chain of events to achieve a certain action.

Benefits of Smart Security Systems

Burglar Deterrence

For many homes or premises with installed smart security systems monitored by professionals, there are window stickers and yard signs notifying outsiders that the home is under surveillance. Such factors work as deterrents to burglars who realize that they can easily be caught if they tried to access the home.

Remote Monitoring

Smart security systems also enable a homeowner to monitor their home remotely. Users can easily arm or disarm their smart systems from any location via the internet. Also, users can use a panic button to notify security companies of impending burglary. Owners can also unlock doors remotely to allow neighbors to access the home in case of an emergency.

Peace of Mind

Smart security systems enable owners to save time and enjoy an uninterrupted peace of mind because one does not have to overthink about the doors being opened or the alarm being armed. Through a thermostat, the smart systems can turn off vents in case of fire. If the owner is away on vacation, then the system can allow the user to turn on lights remotely for a short duration in the evening to make it seem like the home is occupied.

Energy and Cost Savings

Smart security systems also allow the owner to make immense energy savings as well as cost savings. With the automatic thermostat, the home's or premises' heating and cooling systems can be programmed to turn on and off at the exact required moment thus preventing loss of energy. The system also powers down devices, electrical outlets, or lighting when they are not in use.