Home Security | Step By Step Guide - Designing Perimeter Alarm System

Designing a perimeter alarm system - back view

Designing a perimeter alarm system - front view

Above: Our Example House (Front View)

Above: Our Example House (Back View)

Step-By-Step Guide To Designing A Perimeter Home Alarm System:

Simply put, a perimeter alarm system is one that will go into alarm BEFORE an intruder enters your home, not AFTER. Many alarm companies (the majority being the "free" alarm companies) will recommend a system that focuses on protecting the main entry doors, and placing motion sensors in "strategic" areas around your home. The thinking is that should an intruder enter through any of the windows, they will eventually walk in front of a motion sensor and the alarm will sound. The problem with this setup is that the intruder is already inside your house! Now they have nothing to lose and grab whatever they can. This is especially a problem if you like to arm your system while you're at home. Most likely you will have to "bypass" some of the motion sensors to do this, so you can walk about the house without setting off your alarm. Now, you have a serious drop in your level of protection, and a false sense of security.

A perimeter alarm concentrates on all of the accessible entry points of your home, so that the alarm will sound BEFORE the intruder enters the home. Chances are, the intruder will cut his or her losses and flee the situation, leaving your house and all its contents (including your family!) undisturbed.

There is no denying that a perimeter alarm system would involve a bigger investment than a cookie cutter design, mainly due to the extra labor involved. But this system will be protecting your family and all of your worldly possessions for an average of 15 years. It's no time to cut corners!

The following pages will assist you in determining what type of devices you will need to design an effective perimeter home security system. The example we have used is a simple two story detached home with a basement and attached garage. They will explain what this house would require for effective perimeter protection, and why each device is needed. (Many of these considerations could apply for a commercial or industrial setting, as well). It's a good idea to start at the basement and work your way up to the first, then second floor. Go here to get started!

Join Us As We Design A Perimeter Security System For A Typical Two-Level Home, Step By Step:

Let's Begin Designing The: Basement Portion Of Our Perimeter Security System.

Why Would These Alarm Companies Recommend Such An Ineffective "Cookie Cutter" Design?

Simple. These companies tend to value quantity (number of accounts they can sell) over quality. They need to sell a system that can be installed VERY quickly by their installers, so they can move on to the next account. This is also why they will usually recommend wireless devices, which are much easier and quicker to install.

What Exactly Is A "Perimeter" Alarm System?