Audible Only Alarm
Do you want the alarm to just make a noise and frighten the burglar off? We call this type an 'Audible Only' alarm. This is the simplest and usually the least expensive. The majority of houses will have this sort of alarm fitted and in most cases it's all that's needed to deter burglars. The method of setting, or unsetting this type of alarm is usually by a 4 digit code entered into a keypad. The keypad is usually installed in or near the hallway to enable the alarm to be set, either when leaving the house or when going to bed. For those who would have difficulty using a keypad or remembering a code we can provide a small tag, a simple switch or even a neat remote control to turn the alarm on and off.
Don't forget though that if someone reports a ringing alarm, the Police will NOT attend without confirmation of a crime in progress. A properly installed alarm system with 24hr Monitoring will provide this confirmation electronically thus qualifying for Level 1 Police response which is the equivalent of dialling 999.
Audible Alarm with a Dialler
Do you want to be notified on your mobile phone, office phone if the alarm activates? We call this type an 'Audible Only' with a 'Dialler'. This option has become an integrated standard feature of many control panels in recent years thus reducing the cost. Most modern domestic systems now have the ability to communicate via your existing telephone line, however if you also have a Broadband Internet Connection that shares the line we would need to fit a special alarm panel filter. If you don't have a phone line a GSM Dialler that uses the mobile network can be used instead. The method of setting and unsetting the alarm will usually be a keypad as above.
Monitored Alarm with Police Response
Do you want the system to notify an 'Alarm Receiving Centre' who in turn would call your Keyholders and the Police where appropriate? We call this type a 'Monitored Alarm with Police Response'. As costs have dropped significantly, this option is becoming much more popular. Also, if you have been recently burgled, you may be advised to choose this type by your insurers. Again this may share an existing telephone line. If the line is vulnerable to deliberate cutting then a 'Dual-Path' signalling system such as DualCom GPRS will be required.
The method of setting and unsetting this type of alarm will usually be a 'Keytag' and not a keypad. The reason for this is a requirement of The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) who in their document DD243:2004 require that alarms are not to be set and unset by means of a 4 digit code entered into a keypad claiming that most false alarms are caused by people forgetting their code! Don't worry if you lose your tag though - just let us know and we can immediately erase it from your system using VERA.