Are Glass Break Sensors Effective?

Yes, glass break sensors are effective. These devices do a great job of monitoring windows and protective glass casings. Their sound detection sensors are very reliable in alerting a system when glass has been broken. Also, false alarms are prevented by dual sound verification techniques.

A glass break sensor works by actively listening for the sounds associated with breaking glass. In order for a glass break sensor to trigger, two unique sounds must be detected. These are the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking against the glass and the high-pitched "shattering" of the glass breaking.

Unless both the "thud" and "shattering" sounds are detected subsequently, a glass break sensor will not activate. Glass break sensors are very reliable in detecting these sounds. Also, their special dual-sound detection process is great for preventing false alarms on the security system.

If a user wants to test their glass break sensor for proper function, they can do so using a glass break simulator, such as the Honeywell FG701. A glass break simulator is designed to produce a similar sound to the shattering of glass. This allows the user to properly test their glass break sensor without actually having to break real glass, which is both dangerous and difficult to clean up.

When testing the glass break sensor, the user will use the simulator to produce the shattering sound, while simultaneously producing their own "thud" by gently striking the glass. By making both of these sounds virtually at the time time, the user should be able to set off the glass break sensor to ensure its proper function.

We recommend testing the sensor by performing this test in all four corners, as well as the center of the glass. Be sure the glass break detector is in test mode at this time. This will ensure that the sensor will be able to detect the sound of the breaking glass, regardless of where the breakage occurs.

For more information on how to use the FG701, please check out the following video: