Possession of material assets also raises the question of their safety under various force majeure circumstances. Interest in this topic is shown not only by owners of goods intended for subsequent circulation, but also by private individuals. For whom parting with what they have acquired over a long period of time and hard work is a strong blow to their usual standard of living.
Not every item, especially if there is a lot of it, can be sent to a bank or placed under personal guard. Therefore, a person’s property is constantly at risk of physical loss in the event of fires, floods or simple theft.
A solution for the latter case exists and consists in the use of automated security systems for premises with material assets. If a stranger enters, they will give a danger signal to the owner, notify others about the fact of an offense, or simply call law enforcement services.
But this is not the only method of using security systems - they are often combined with fire safety sensors and video surveillance devices, which allows them to be used as universal ones that monitor the general condition of the protected perimeter of complexes.
Also, with the development of transport and crimes committed in relation to it, car alarm systems have become increasingly widespread. These devices are designed not only to prevent strangers from entering the interior or body of the car, but also to prevent the theft of the vehicle itself. In the event that this unfortunate fact does occur, the devices included in the automobile security system notify about the current location of the vehicle, which allows it to be returned to its owner without delay.
The security alarm circuit of any type is quite simple for its installation and assembly. You can buy a ready-made complex that provides all the necessary functionality and install it yourself at a facility that requires security control. In cases where the capabilities of the kit are not satisfactory, your own version of the security system is created by assembling it from unified modules. Among which you can find sensors and alarms of various types and central units with the necessary set of functions.
With sufficient knowledge of circuit design, some specialists do without purchasing ready-made blocks at all, making the necessary ones with their own hands. We are talking not only about warning devices, but also about some types of sensors.
Why is a burglar alarm necessary?
A security alarm system is a complex of devices consisting of various sensors, electronic modules and control units. The purpose of its installation is to provide a security system for any property (private home, office, apartment, cottage, warehouse). The presence of many models allows you to choose the optimal security system.
The alarm system solves problems such as:
- warning the owner about the danger;
- call security;
- attracting the attention of third parties;
- psychological impact on the offender;
- turning on auxiliary systems connected to the security system.
If the security perimeter is violated, the following is carried out:
- transmitting a signal to the security console;
- warning the property owner about an attempted break-in;
- activation of sound and light alarms;
- activation of interlocking systems to prevent intrusion.
Features of car alarm installation
A step such as installing an alarm system is quite responsible. Before you begin installation, you need to know about possible nuances in order to avoid repairs and financial costs. To install this equipment you need to have certain skills and abilities, but this is not enough. Today, a huge selection of anti-theft systems from various brands is offered, and there are also various connection schemes. What should you choose? This is really the problem. Among the most famous companies, it is worth highlighting Tomahawk, Sheriff, Mongoose, Panther. Particular attention must be paid to the choice of installation scheme, since the color marking of different devices can be intended for completely different functions.
When installing an alarm system, one of the main documents to follow is the diagram
If you made the alarm yourself, then during the process of connecting it, it is important to clearly understand which wire needs to be connected and where. When connecting security devices with a GSM module at home, it is important to know what this device is intended for, how to connect it correctly and program the system after installation. There may be other actions that you need to be prepared for. If you are not confident in your abilities, then it is better to turn to the services of specialists. Yes, you will have to pay a certain amount, but you will be able to avoid problems.
Basically, the alarm system is installed independently because:
- the car owner likes to do it himself;
- there are financial problems.
Tools and materials
To install the equipment yourself, you will need the following list of materials and tools:
- alarm kit with instructions;
- electronic multimeter;
- additional wires;
- foam rubber (the control unit is wrapped in it);
- black electrical tape with double-sided tape;
- socket wrench, lighter, wire cutter, shaped screwdriver.
After you have prepared everything you need, you can begin installing the device. We’ll talk further about how to do this correctly and where to install it.
How to determine the location of the device in the car
Let's first consider the place where the control unit is installed. Basically, this is the cavity behind the instrument panel. Before installing the block, it is wrapped in foam rubber and tested to see how convenient the location will be. It is important that the fixation is comfortable and that the block does not interfere with anything. To install the anti-theft device correctly, you must follow a few simple recommendations:
- The control unit must be located inside the cabin and in such a place that if an intruder breaks in, it will take as long as possible to get to it. The location where the block will be located is easy to calculate, but getting to it will require time.
- Rubbing elements and parts, for example, rods, cables, etc. should not be located near the block.
- The unit should not be installed near a heating system or a source of high moisture (air conditioning or heater ducts).
- It is necessary to avoid installing the unit in close proximity to antenna cables, mobile phones, and radio stations.
- The bulk of the connections will be made to the devices on the panel.
The control unit is installed in a hidden and convenient place inside the car.
During the installation process, attention should be paid to the following nuances:
- Location of wires in places of bends (door-body). To avoid kinks and fractures of the wiring as a result of constant mechanical stress, it is necessary to use special rubber feed-through tubes, as well as bushings that must have a certain bending radius.
- The door solenoids are mounted away from the pull button that opens the door.
- It is necessary to lay wiring along the body only in places where there is no moisture. For fastening, plastic ties (clamps) are used, the size of which depends on the thickness of the wiring.
These are the main preparatory points that should be taken into account when independently installing the equipment in question. We will consider the detailed connection of the anti-theft system below.
Step-by-step instructions for installing an alarm system
First, it’s worth talking about connections, since experts have differing opinions on this matter. The wires can be connected either by soldering, crimping or twisting. There is an opinion that soldering in a car is unacceptable. Be that as it may, the electrical connections must be reliable and well insulated, for which electrical tape and heat-shrinkable tubing are used.
The ground wire is connected first; it is usually black. It is advisable that the connection point be a standard ground bolt. To do this, a terminal is crimped onto the end of the wire, which must match the size of the bolt. It is unacceptable to connect the ground wire using a self-tapping screw, which is due to the low reliability of the connection. If the mass is connected in the engine compartment, then the connection point is treated with an anti-corrosion agent.
The ground wire of the car alarm is connected to the standard ground bolt, for which a terminal of the appropriate size is crimped onto the end of the wire
The equipment is connected to +12 V with red wires. During the installation process it is important to consider:
- the power is connected to the standard car wiring to wires with a cross-section of at least 6 mm or directly to the battery;
- if a connection is made to a standard wire, then you must take into account the rating of the standard fuse for this circuit;
- It is recommended to connect the relay unit and the alarm unit to different circuits, which are protected by different fuses;
- If you connect the “+” wire to the battery, then it is recommended to install a 30 A fuse in the circuit and place it as close as possible to the positive terminal of the battery. The purpose of this element is additional protection.
Light signaling
The connection is made to the main headlights (low beam) or turn signals. When installing to turn signals, you need to find those wires that come from the turn signal. In the case of headlights, the connection is made with the wire going to the light control relay.
central locking
To connect to the central locking system, you can use different schemes, the choice of which depends on the design of the alarm. The central locking system is located inside the car, in a place where it is not so easy to find. To search, you need to use the electrical diagram of your car. They are connected to this device in the central locking control unit. It can be located in one of the following places:
- on the driver's door;
- on the central dashboard;
- It is possible to install a central locking control button in the cabin.
The alarm system is connected to the central locking control unit in the central locking control unit. To find this block, you need to use the electrical diagram for the car
There are also cars that simply do not have central locking. In this case, you will need to install it.
Limit switches
To connect limit switches (limit switches) on the trunk lid and hood, you will need to find wires related to standard devices and connect to them. Another option is to install additional wires that come with the equipment. The limit switches are installed in such a way that they close at the moment of opening. For installation, special brackets are used. The sensor for the hood is installed on the engine panel; in the luggage compartment it is mounted near the side parcel shelf. To connect the device to the door contacts, determine the connection point in accordance with the electrical diagram for the car.
Limit switches must be installed in such a way that when the hood or trunk is opened, the contacts of the element are closed
Sound alarm and sensors
The siren and sensors are also installed according to the diagram. Its location is chosen in the engine compartment and secured with a bolt. It is possible to mount the sound device under the wiper mount. To do this, it is disassembled and the siren wires are laid together with the wires for the wipers. After installing the sound alarm, the mount is put back together.
Regarding impact sensors, it should be noted that their installation to the body must be as rigid as possible in order for the sensitivity to be the best. Avoid installing elements near air ducts, since the anti-theft device may be triggered by air flow. In addition, it is necessary to exclude direct sunlight to avoid heating. Fastening is done using self-tapping screws. The installation location can be the inside of the wing from the passenger compartment, the area behind the hand brake.
An audible alarm (siren) is installed in the engine compartment and secured with a bolt connection
How to adjust the shock sensor?
The sensitivity of the system in question depends on how correctly the sensor is adjusted. Adjustment is carried out by rotating special screws, thereby decreasing or increasing the level of sensitivity. The required level is selected experimentally by tapping on the car body or wheel. If the sensitivity level is too high, the alarm will be triggered even by the wind. In such a situation, the unit will need to be reprogrammed.
Installation of relay contact group
The connection is made to the fuel pump control system. If there is an illegal entry into the car, the relay is activated, which prevents the fuel pump from starting. In this case, the engine simply will not start.
Glass closers
To ensure that the windows close automatically when the car is armed, devices called closers are used. They are a small unit, the installation of which does not cause difficulties. The connection is made according to the attached diagram. The device is located in the cavity of the driver's door. This is justified by the fact that the main control is carried out by the driver, and the location of all buttons should be nearby. After installing the control unit in the door, there is no need to stretch additional wires and take them out. It is advisable to install the unit as close as possible to the panel with the power window control buttons.
To automatically close windows when arming, glass closers are used, which are mounted in the cavity of the driver's door.
LED and Valet button
Additionally, it is worth mentioning the location of the LED, which indicates that the vehicle is armed and disarmed. Basically, the element is installed in the side pillar (left) of the windshield. If the device includes a Valet service button, then where its location is chosen by the car owner. It is advisable to use inconspicuous places. This button is intended to turn off the siren if the key fob breaks down or is discharged, as well as to program the alarm and emergency shutdown if it is not possible to turn it off in the standard way.
An LED indicator indicating that the vehicle has been disarmed and armed is installed in most cases in the windshield pillar, but other installation locations are also possible
Alarm device
The alarm system consists of the following main blocks:
- security device sensors;
- receiving and control module;
- execution devices.
Sensors can be made in the form of sensors. According to the principle of response, they are passive and active. The first ones are in standby mode.
The execution device monitors the protected object. To do this, it uses ultrasound, infrared or radio wave radiation. When the device is triggered, a signal is sent to the central alarm panel.
The receiving and control module is an electronic unit. It processes signals coming from security sensors. In case of danger, it gives a signal, which is processed by the executive alarm system.
The sensor and the central module communicate with each other using a radio signal or are connected to each other by cable.
The actuators are “controlled” by the control and reception center. Externally, they are presented in the form of light emitters, sound sirens, blocking devices, etc. An alarm signal can also be sent to the owner directly or simultaneously sent to the security service console using the Internet, GSM connection or by telephone.
Autonomous
Autonomous security alarms are the most inexpensive protection for property and real estate. You can install it yourself. The kit can be purchased at the appropriate retail outlet. Sensors are purchased and placed at points most likely to be penetrated. These can be windows, doors, walls, roof and other elements of the building.
If a break-in occurs, the system gives a local signal: a loud siren will sound or the lights will flash. Most often, both signals are triggered. They are heard and seen by others or the owner of the protected object, if it is located close to it.
How does the alarm work?
Security alarm hardware kit includes:
- motion sensors;
- magnetic contact opening sensors;
- backup battery;
- glass break sensors;
- electronic control unit;
- actuators in the form of sirens and light-emitting devices;
- uninterruptable power source;
- remote control or control keyboard;
- alarm remote control key fobs.
All of the above is typical for the basic kit.
The principle of operation of a security alarm is to fix the sensors on the object being monitored. If the security perimeter is violated, a signal from the sensor is sent to the central unit. This activates the executive systems, which perform the functions assigned to them: they give a light signal, turn on the siren, block the output, etc. This lasts until the alarm is cleared at the central security service point or by any other means.
Checkpoints
Signal metering control devices are an equally important element of a security organization. It is to them that an alert is received about an intruder entering the facility. The variety of such devices, as well as sensors, is quite large. They are presented as the simplest miniature circuits, which are controlled using a few buttons, or as powerful computer systems. The latter display a detailed floor plan of the building on the monitor and allow you to determine the exact location of penetration.
When choosing a control point, you need to start from the needs of the security system, and not for the sake of the installation itself. Therefore, installing complex and cumbersome systems is not always justified; a security system works well only when it goes unnoticed.
How does an apartment alarm work?
A security alarm installed in a residential area is functionally no different from the security of a commercial property. It includes a control panel, technical motion and opening sensors.
Security sensors used indoors are divided into several types:
- magnetic contact;
- passive infrared detectors;
- ultrasonic;
- microwave;
- photovoltaic;
- seismic.
If necessary, the security alarm set can be expanded with fire sensors, water leakage sensors, gas leakage and air quality sensors. You can arm your apartment by pressing one button on the key fob, which the owner takes with him. You can do the same using a mobile application or a code keyboard. The object is disarmed using a special code.
How does a cottage alarm work?
The principle of operation of a security alarm in a country house is different. This is due to the presence of a large territory, several floors, entrance doors and many windows. A sensor must be installed on every potentially dangerous object. Otherwise, the operating principle is the same as for apartment security. It is necessary to arm the house not only in the absence of people living there, but also at night. Modern security systems provide such solutions even if there are people in the house.
How does an alarm system work in a store?
The principle of operation of a security system in a store is associated not only with the safety of personnel and the comfort of customers, but also with the safety of material assets. For this, additional modules are used, for example, a water leakage sensor. A basic store security system kit includes:
- security alarm (with motion and door opening sensors with photo confirmation and optional alarm in shop windows);
- fire alarm (a fire signal is sent to the special service control panel in a split second);
- panic button (allows you to instantly call a rapid response team);
- video surveillance system (cameras operate over a Wi-Fi network and have a wide viewing angle. Video recordings are saved in cloud storage);
- gas leak sensors;
- temperature sensors (monitor the temperature inside the room);
Control is carried out using the remote control.
Installation and placement
During installation, the security system is conventionally divided into parts, on which their location depends. Control, signaling and power supply devices are placed separately from the sensors in poorly accessible places. Often, a single distribution cabinet is used for this, inside which the controls and batteries (if used in the design) are located. The opposite situation also happens, when the control panel is located in places where access is more convenient.
The sensors themselves are distributed according to their operating principles:
- laser and induction guarding the perimeter in the path of the alleged intruder;
- vibration, magnetic and linear in places of access to the room - windows and doors;
- motion sensors are installed so that their coverage area extends to as large an area as possible, into which an intruder is sure to fall.
Disguised wiring is laid between the sensors and the rest of the system. It is possible to use a radio circuit instead. Unfortunately, the latter is not reliable and is susceptible to interference from other electrical equipment.
Tips for choosing an alarm
The choice of security alarm is related to the principle of the location of the object and its specific operation. Console security will provide round-the-clock response. For the uninterrupted operation of security systems, it is important to monitor the serviceability of their functional units, for example, change batteries on time and follow operating rules. It is important to entrust the maintenance of security systems to professionals, especially if you don’t understand much about it.
