This project consisted of installing a new interactive intrusion alarm system. It included an alarm panel, a touch screen keypad for the rear door, a cellular communicator, door contact sensors, glass break sensor, PIR detectors, a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector that could also be programmed to detect high or low temperature readings in the office.
These interactive alarm systems allow customers to receive notifications regarding alarm and sensor activity and to control the alarm system remotely on their smartphones. Cellular communicators are used since they do not require the use of a landline, are more secure and allow the interactive alarm features to be used. In addition, if the business or home wants to add smart home/business features (lights locks, thermostats), they can easily be added with the use of cellular communicators. Security cameras can also be integrated and viewed through the same interactive alarm app, although they require a network connection to transmits live video.
This alarm system provides security as well as carbon monoxide and smoke detection capabilities. A touch screen keypad is utilized since it provides a similar interface to a smartphone, which most people are familiar with. The door contacts were recessed where possible which provide a more secure installation method but also allow a more aesthetic look in an office environment. PIR (Passive Infrared) detectors were used because they require both motion and body heat to set off the sensor which reduces false alarms. Since the smoke detector has more than one capability, it was programmed to detect smoke but also to sound an alarm if the inside temperature of the office went below a certain temperature. If the furnace stopped working during the winter months and the inside temperature dropped below the threshold temperature, a notification would be sent to the customer. This would prevent the issue of frozen pipes, etc. when the office was closed for business.