How to Use Different DIY Security Systems

How to Use Different DIY Security Systems

Wired Security Systems

A basic wired security system consists of cables or wires, usually covered in PVC sheath, that run through the walls and floors, a power source connected to the main control panel, and a door chime. Additional components include door and window sensors, security and closed circuit television cameras, flood sensors, and smoke detectors. Follow these steps to install a basic wired system.

To install a wired system, mount the sounder where you can hear it but where it cannot be easily muffled or disabled by an intruder. The sounder may be installed indoors or outside in a protective metal box fitted with a switch that will set off the sounder if someone tampers with the box or sounder.
Mount the sounder’s backplate first, but do not yet connect the sounder.
Mount door and window switches on the doors and windows you wish to protect. Mount the magnet to the door or window and the switch on the frame so that they are close together when the door or window is closed.
The system is connected with a thin cord made of two wires. Loop an inch of each exposed wire around a separate screw on the switch or door cord.
Run the cord to the next switch and repeat the process with the copper wire only, connecting it to the window or door switch’s screws.
Run the cord through the walls, or along a baseboard, from the point farthest from the sounder to the sounder’s backplate.
If the system calls for a battery, decide on a location for them, such as a cabinet or closet.
Connect the battery to the sounder with the red and black bell wire according to the system instructions.
Join the black battery wire to the black sounder wire and the red battery wire to the red sounder wire, going through the key switch first if your system includes one.
Fasten the sounder to the backplate and attach the wire between the battery cells.
Test the system by turning on the key switch and opening a door or window to make sure the alarm sounds.

Wireless Security System

Wireless security systems consist of a control panel, a keypad, a sound component, and a device for alerting the authorities to a security breach. Wireless systems may also include additional components, such as motion sensors and window sensors. Follow these steps to install a basic wireless system.

To install a wireless system, pick a location for the control panel near an electrical outlet or near the main fuse box. If your system will be monitored, choose a location with access to a phone line.
Choose locations for the alarm sounder and security sensors.
Drill a hole behind the control panel location and below the electrical outlet to connect the two and to avoid tampering.
Use the keypad to program the features of your system according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Install the alarm sounder near another electrical outlet or in another location if it is battery-operated.
Install the door and window sensors by attaching a transmitter to the window frame or doorjamb and a magnet to the window or door.
Test the system by opening a door or window and making sure the alarm sounds.

Budget DIY Security System

Homeowners may choose to create and install their own home security system or to customize an existing wired or wireless system. Many homeowners find the most cost-effective method is to purchase a security system kit and add on additional components as needed instead of purchasing each component separately. The following components can be included in a customized home security system. Follow the basic instructions for wired or wireless systems to integrate the components.

Door Sensors: Door sensors sound when a door is opened. Alarms may be set for 15 to 30 second delays to allow the homeowner to enter the proper alarm code on the keypad to disarm the system.
Motion Sensors: Motion sensors are infrared sensors that detect motion or the body heat given off by an intruder. Motion sensors can be mounted indoors or out and can be adjusted so they do not sound when the motion or heat of animals under 85 to 100 pounds is detected. Many motion sensors are battery operated and have their own chimes and keypad, so they can be mounted anywhere and do not have to be included in the initial system installation.
Glass Break Sensors: These may detect either the sound that glass makes as it breaks or vibration sensors. Sensors may be wired or wireless and are mounted to the wall or ceiling near windows. One sensor per room will detect the sound or vibration made when glass is broken.
Window Sensors: these are mounted to the window, frame, and detect if a window is opened. The sensor may operate by a magnetic connection between the two parts or through passive infrared technology. Sensors may be stand-alone detectors that have their own sounder or may be part of your wired or wireless system. Mount the window sensor six to seven inches from the window’s bottom edge and align it with the window frame component.
Indoor/Outdoor Sirens: An indoor siren, or a sounder, is mounted on the wall or ceiling where it can be heard easily. The sounder will go off when one of the door or window sensors is tripped and can be turned off by entering the correct code in the control panel keypad. An outdoor siren may be connected to the indoor security system and is designed to alert neighbors to an intruder. An outdoor siren also may be wired to outdoor motion sensors.
Indoor/Outdoor Strobes: These can include high-powered, motion-activated colored lights that will turn on when an intruder enters the protected area. They may be stand-alone lights or tie into an indoor or outdoor system. The lights may simply turn on or may cause the siren to sound.
Surveillance Cameras: Cameras may be wired or wireless and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Cameras may be mounted indoors or out, usually near doors and windows, and may be hidden or displayed. Bullet cameras are compact, easily hidden, and can record continuously or be triggered by motion. Dome cameras are mounted on the ceiling, and serve as deterrents. IP cameras are closed-circuit television cameras with a built-in web server that transmits images over the internet. IP cameras can give live, wireless surveillance access. Wireless cameras are portable and easy to install and may function on their own or as part of a larger system.
Flood Lights/Security Lights: Security lights serve the dual purpose of lighting the way into the house for the homeowner and to deter intruders by illuminating their entrance points. These lights can be motion-activated or continuous. Security lights are stand-alone features that can be added on to the main security system.
Timed Lights: Flood or security lights can be set to turn on and off at pre-set times to illuminate the property at night.
Deadbolt: Deadbolts may be single or double cylinder or a keyless deadbolt. A single cylinder has a key cylinder on one side of the lock and a knob at the other. These are not suitable for mounting near a window or decorative glass, which an intruder may break to reach in and unlock the inside knob. A double-cylinder deadbolt requires keys on both sides and is more secure for doors with breakable glass. Keyless deadbolts use remote controls, keypads, or fingerprint scanners instead of keys.
Window Track Locks: These locks secure sliding windows and doors. Install the lock on the window or door track and mount a metal cup onto the sill. The bolt slides between them and is secured by a key.
Peephole: Install a peephole in front or backdoors to see who or what is outside without opening the door. Newer door viewers allow greater range of vision, often to ground level. Drill a hole through the door at eye-level, clean the hole with a file or rasp, and screw in the peephole.
Dowels for Windows: A cost-effective security solution for sliding windows and doors. Simply cut a dowel to the length of the track of a sliding window or door and place it in the track.
Garage Door Controller: These sensors close your garage door after a specified amount of time to ensure it is not accidentally left open. The sensor is mounted to the wall inside the garage. Motion sensors may be added to the garage for added security.

Pros and Cons

Wired security systems typically cost less than wireless systems and are a good choice for those building or remodeling their home or business, because the system components must be included in the building’s design. More complex wired systems may need to be installed by a professional.

Wireless systems are more expensive than wired systems, but do not require any invasive procedures to install wires into existing walls. Wireless systems are also easier for homeowners to install themselves. Some wireless systems may experience more false alarms, but this is debated among security professionals. Customized and self-installed systems offer the greatest flexibility and can be added to or changed to suit the homeowner’s changing needs.

DIY systems can be cheaper than comparable systems, but additional add-on components can drive the price upward. All systems should be installed carefully according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid false alarms and failure.