Comparing Home Security Systems

Part 1

Before we begin comparing the various brands and models of available home security systems on the market today, we must first break the choices down to at least two different varieties that are available

Total wireless security systems
or
Hardwired / wireless hybrid security systems

A fully hardwired Security System is really the route to take if possible. The reason for that is the cost. Just for example, a wireless door contact starts at about $31, whereas a hardwired contact starts at about $4.

A Hybrid Security System is most common, it can use both hardwired and wireless. The reason a hybrid Security System is so popular is because most people want to save as much money as possible, but sometimes running a wire to a location can be too difficult, so the hybrid security system fits the bill nicely here.

Most any modern hardwired Home Security System can become a hybrid hardwire / wireless security system just by adding a wireless receiver module.

A total wireless Security System is the easiest to install without a doubt, but with them there are two issues to consider, 1) price, as I mentioned above, wireless costs quite a bit more than hardwired and 2) vulnerability, a total wireless security system or “all in one” unit, everything, including the siren, is packed into the keypad. And if the alarm doesn’t scare off an intruder, where do you think he’s headed first….to shut that thing up.

Don't let this scare you off from a total wireless security system however, because there are ways to totally remove this vulnerability, such as using a remote siren and disabling the built in one. That coupled with locating the control unit in a closet hidden away and simply using a remote to arm and disarm is good protocol to follow when using one of these types of total wireless systems and makes them just as effective as any hardwired security system.

Whether you decide to use all hardwired, add some wireless, or go totally wireless, Home Security Systems are the number one deterrent of intruders. Getting any security system is better than no security at all.