Here are some of the advanced features that are available in modern home security systems.
As domestic security needs evolve, home security companies are also adding new tools to their offerings. Modern home security systems have several components that aim to deter or catch burglars and other intruders when they break into your property.
Here are some of the advanced features that are available in modern home security systems.
Motion Sensors
In the past, motion sensors triggered false alarms frequently. With modern motion detectors, users can adjust the sensitivity to reduce the occurrence of false alerts.
Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors, the most popular type of motion sensors, allow the user to set the pulse count. A low pulse count increases the sensitivity, which in turn increases the chances of false alarms. If you want to avoid false signals, you can set a high pulse count such that the sensor only detects humans and large animals.
Another significant advancement concerning home security motion sensors is the introduction of dual-tech motion detectors. These sensors rely on both microwave and PIR technologies, which reduces the occurrence of false alarms.
Smart Locks
A smart lock is an electromechanical locking mechanism that secures a door. You can only open the door if you have the authorized device. The device sends instructions over a wireless protocol to the built-in control unit, which then uses a cryptographic key to execute the authorization process.
Similar to traditional locks, smart locks require the lock and the key to function. However, the key is not physical – instead, it is either a smartphone or a unique key. This makes it impossible to pick unless there is a software bug that would allow attackers access.
Moreover, smart locks continually monitor access and send alerts to the linked smartphone. A third-party can only gain access to a smart lock using a virtual key assigned to them from the owner’s phone via email or SMS. This virtual key is only valid within a timeframe specified by the sender.
Another exciting feature of smart locks is the ability to grant or deny access remotely using a mobile app. Some models work in sync with security cameras, allowing the user to monitor their home remotely.
Even with all the pros of smart locks, this home security measure isn’t 100% foolproof. As we mentioned earlier, hackers could exploit any vulnerabilities in the lock so you should keep the software updated.
Control Panel
The control panel is the central hub of any home security system. Modern control panels are more than a touchpad that allows you to key in passwords. They come with a voice control feature, which means that you do not have to touch to enter a command.
Most control panels have a panic button that alerts emergency response services when pressed. Even better, this feature comes with a two-way voice function that allows you to communicate with the emergency personnel just as you would using a phone.
Additionally, you no longer have to rely on the main panel to control your home security system. You can easily add multiple controllers, known as keypads, anywhere around the home to allow you to turn various components such as sensors and alarms on or off.
Lastly, modern home security control panels allow you to set multiple user passwords. You can set a different code for your partner, children, and guests. These panels also keep a log of the users who enter your home and regularly send such alerts via email or text messages. Syncing with a smartphone also allows the user to arm or disarm the panel from remote locations.
Cellular Backup Units
One of the biggest challenges of traditional home security systems is that they become ineffective if the intruder cuts cables before the invasion. Cut wires also mean that the system cannot alert the monitoring center.
However, modern security systems come with cellular backup units. In case the burglar disrupts your primary communication line, the cellular backup will still establish communication with the emergency response center.
Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras are as crucial as alarms when it comes to securing your home. Nowadays, you do not have to worry about vandalism, as most cameras capture videos and upload directly to the cloud. Even if the intruder damages the camera and the local storage device, you always have a backup on the cloud.
Moreover, modern cameras have high-quality lenses that shoot quality images in poorly-lit conditions, or even in pitch darkness. If you have the resources, you can invest in cameras with thermal sensors that trigger the alarm if an intruder enters the detection range.
Conclusion
The security industry has come a long way, and home security companies have done an impressive job by continually updating their tools to match the needs of homeowners. Expect this trend to continue but also know that you aren’t 100% secure if you’re not updating these new high tech home security solutions.
It is imperative, if you choose to make your home security high tech, that you stay on top of software updates as well as keeping yourself in the loop about your chosen product. While most of these new home security measure do a lot to improve over the old systems, nothing is absolutely perfect. Use these tech gadgets to mitigate the risk of burglary but don’t think they will completely stop a determined thief or vandal.
