Intrusion Detection Devices and Detectors

Door/Window Contacts
(Surface Mount or Recessed)

Detects opening of doors and windows

Pluses: Can be alarmed when family is in the home, provides perimeter protection so alarm is sounded when protected area is opened with intruder still on the outside of the house, provides chime when area is opened (when alarm is off) so you know when someone has entered or exited the house

Recommended Areas: Around areas of concern usually on all lower level openings and sometimes upper windows

Glassbreak Detectors

Detects sound of breaking glass and detects shock vibrations

Pluses: Can be alarmed when family is in the home, protects glass up to 25 feet away, provides perimeter protection so alarm is sounded when glass is shattered with intruder still on the outside of the home

Recommended Areas: Around areas of concern usually lower level areas especially locations with tempered glass (sliding glass doors, French doors, Swing doors, large fixed glass areas)

Motion Detectors
(Passive IR or Dual Tech)

Detects movement in rooms and hallways

Pluses: Detects movement up to 40 feet away, provides backup protection to contacts and glassbreaks, and provides interior protection incase someone gets through an unprotected area

Recommended Areas: Stairwell areas, hallways, areas with important valuables

Shock Detectors

Detects opening of area and also local glassbreak detection

Pluses: Great for areas where sliding glass door or one window is in a room by itself

Window Screens

Detects someone removing a window screen or cutting the screen area

Pluses: Allows for protection when windows are opened, provides perimeter protection so can be alarmed when family is in the home

Recommended Areas: On windows where homeowner wants protection even when the window is open