Alarm Systems & Intrusion Detection

Choosing the right alarm hardware

1. Kit or component build

A kit from the alarm kits range, like Paradox's MG5050, bundles a panel, keypad and a set of detectors as one part number - the straightforward choice for a standard install. Building panel-by-panel and sensor-by-sensor costs more in planning but suit's a site with an unusual layout, or one being extended zone by zone rather than installed all at once.

2. Wired or wireless

A wireless detector or keypad, like Hikvision's AX PRO range, installs without running cable through walls and ceilings - the main reason to choose it on an existing building. A wired system has no batteries to replace and no radio interference to consider, which is why it is still specified on new-build sites where the cabling is part of the fit-out anyway.

3. Motion detectors or beams

A PIR motion detector covers a room or an approach in an arc, and is the standard choice indoors. A photoelectric or quad beam, like Takex's range, projects a straight infrared line and is built for a perimeter - a fence line or a long open boundary - where a PIR's coverage pattern does not suit the space.

4. Monitoring and notification

A siren and strobe are the local notification - loud and visible on site, but they only alert whoever is nearby. A monitored system reports back to a monitoring station or a phone over the network or a cellular connection, so someone is notified even when the site is empty. Confirm what your policy or insurer requires before deciding whether the panel needs to support monitoring at all.