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The right security alarm can protect your home and family in a number of ways. For example, you can choose between two types of sensors: motion and microwave. Both types have benefits and drawbacks, but both can help you protect your home and family. Some types of alarms also have a monitoring service that will check the system for false alarms. Read on to learn more. And while you're at it, don't forget to look for the monitoring service's website.

Motion sensors

A security alarm system is not complete without motion detectors. A motion detector is a device that detects any movement in a room and is typically installed in the corner of a room or around an entrance. These devices are most effective when placed at a distance of six to eight feet above the floor. This distance allows the sensor to detect most of the common movements that occur in a room. It is important to install motion sensors away from windows to minimize false alarms.

The motion sensor works by identifying the heat signature of a person moving around the room. While a standard motion detector covers an area of thirty feet, the newest generation can cover a greater distance. They also have a 90-degree field of view, which makes them ideal for corner installations. The compact design of the device allows it to be installed in the corner or middle of a room. The wireless motion sensor works best in a burglary scenario, as it alerts the owner as soon as it detects motion.

Microwave detectors reduce false alarms

Microwave motion detectors can be used in virtually any environment. In contrast, photo-electric sensors can be set off by high heat. The microwave signal can penetrate walls or holes, making them useful for covering outdoor areas. They are also less expensive to purchase, but the power they draw can be a considerable expense. In addition, they are not as reliable as photo-electric sensors, and they may cause false alarms from everyday incidents.

The main difference between a microwave and a human proximity detector is the type of sensor used. Microwave detectors are usually equipped with a parabolic antenna, which creates a narrow beam width. The other type of sensor uses a planar antenna array, which allows it to detect objects at different angles. This results in greater plane fields and longer object viewing. This allows the system to make more accurate decisions based on the data it receives.

Dual signaling

While dual signaling systems can use two different channels to send an alarm message, they are not necessarily the best option for every situation. Dual signaling relies on two different signaling technologies, including cellular and GPRS/GSM, to raise the alarm in the event of an emergency. Having two paths to signal a situation is helpful because it allows the police to respond faster and more effectively in case of a fire or other emergency.

Activation of one sensor triggers a subsequent trouble signal or pre-alarm. A third sensor, such as smoke, needs two zones in order to be triggered. This double-trigger process is also known as a multiple-sensor alarm. Dual signaling is not a special type of sensor but rather requires two sequential sensors to detect a condition. The two sensors may be redundant, or they may be in different system zones.

Monitoring service

If you have a security alarm system that is not monitored, you could end up paying more than necessary for monitoring. Professional monitoring services will notify the police or fire department or call a monitoring center every time something triggers the alarm. For about $10 to $50 per month, you can have the security system monitored by professionals. These services are not cheap, however, and you should compare the cost against other monitoring options. After all, a monitoring service should be able to answer any questions that you have and will do everything in its power to answer them.

Professional monitoring will offer you many benefits, including a 7-Day Practice Mode to help you learn the system. This mode prevents false alarms from being triggered by your system. The monitoring center will be notified of any false alarms automatically, but a live agent will be assigned to handle real emergencies. A 7-Day Practice Mode will help you get used to your system and avoid false alarms by encouraging you to practice arming and disarming it and adjusting the sensors.