Door Alarm Sensors
Door alarm sensors are devices you will definitely want to add to your security system. These are some of the most basic and essential sensors, and you can find them in virtually any security setup. These devices are very easy to install and program. You don't need to hire a professional to help you. Nearly anyone can install their own door alarm sensors. Most wireless door alarm sensors can be mounted with double-sided foam tape to make the process even easier. You won't need to drill any holes into your wall. All you will need is a screwdriver to insert the batteries!
Most door alarm sensors follow the same basic principle. There is a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is a little bit larger, and it is placed on or inside the door frame. The accompanying magnet is placed on or inside the door itself. The sensor and magnet will need to be properly aligned when the door is closed, or else the sensor will not work properly. Opening the door will cause the magnet to separate from the sensor. This will release a reed switch inside the sensor and tell it to report the condition to the alarm control panel. The system will then respond based on the programming settings for that zone.
While most door sensors generally use the same manner of action, these devices can be sorted into multiple categories. For example, there are wireless and hardwired door alarm sensors. Wireless door alarm sensors use RF transmissions to communicate with the alarm system wirelessly. These are the most popular door alarm sensors today, as they are very easy for DIYers to install. You just need to make sure that you choose wireless door alarm sensors that communicate at a wireless frequency that is compatible with your security system.
In contrast hardwired door alarm sensors communicate with an alarm system through a physical hardwired connection. You will need to run a wire from the panel to the sensor. Depending on the location of the panel and the door, this can be quite difficult. You may need to get a professional to help you. But this process can certainly be completed on your own if you are comfortable fishing wires through walls. The good news about hardwired door alarm contacts is that you never need to replace any batteries, and they will essentially become integrated with the building.
Door alarm sensors can also either be surface-mounted or recessed. This distinction is quite simple. Surface-mounted sensors are installed on the outer surface of the door and its frame, while recessed sensors are inserted into the door and its frame. Most users find that surface-mounted contacts are quite easy to install, as you do not need to drill any holes. Recessed sensors require holes to be drilled in the door and the frame. But the good thing about recessed sensors is that they will be completely out of sight once the installation is complete.