Are you looking for the best alarm systems in Kenya? If so, you have come to the right place. Haven secure solutions has a great reputation when it comes to installing different types of alarm systems. So how exactly will alarms help you to stay safe? By definition, alarms are devices that sound a signal whenever an undesirable event occurs. For example, some burglar alarm systems detect movement when a door or window is open.
Intruder/burglar alarm system is a set of interconnected devices that is aimed to protect an object, usually a facility, against intruders and to notify the owner or/and the monitoring station/center of any violation of the protected zones.
Depending on the requirements and financial possibilities, it can be a simple alarm system suitable for a basic protection of a home/apartment, or a more advanced structure, which in addition to the basic functions will greatly improve the life comforts of the users. The designer of the system, usually the installation company or simply the installer, can greatly help the investor/user (customer) to choose an optimal solution, depending on the characteristics of the facility and the customer needs, also taking into account expansion options for the future.
More advanced alarm systems can perform functions like access control (motorized gates, electric strikes in wickets/doors), lighting and heating control, and many other tasks of home/building automation. The interface devices (manipulators) are modern keypads and touch panels, which beyond the aesthetic appearance and intuitive operation have the ability to store maps of the facility on memory cards for easier control of the entire system, as well as (optionally) mobile phones or handhelds and PCs with dedicated applications and Internet connection.
If the system is not put in the service mode, any attempt to open the case ends up triggering an alarm. The control panel monitors the proper operation of all the equipment installed in the burgular system. It collects information from the sensors, keypads, anti-tamper circuits, detects any faults in the wiring, and in the event of an irregularity, switches on optical and acoustic signaling. If the control panel is equipped with a communication module, it can notify the user or a security company about the alarm action.
Any interference into the system will not go unnoticed, being stored the memory of the unit. During the selection of an intruder alarm control panel, one should pay particular attention to the number of inputs, outputs (high and low current), and system expandability options (if ever needed in the future).
An alarm system usually contains one main (master) keypad and (if needed) zone/partition manipulators. The master device has LCD display and numeric keys, or touch screen. The partition keypads have numeric keypads and a simple optical signaling in the form of LEDs. They are used to arm and disarm the partitions, while the main keypad is responsible for the complete control of the entire alarm. The daily handling of the alarm system is limited to arming and disarming operations with the use of the appropriate codes, and viewing/reseting the alarm history.
Sensors/detectors are the most essential elements of any alarm system. The proper selection, deployment and operation of sensors determines the actual usability of the entire system. The popularly employed sensors are PIR and PIR+MW motion detectors and reed switch sensors mounted on the door/window frames. These and other sensors used in alarm systems can be classified as follows:
The principle of operation of passive infra red motion detectors (PIR) is the detection of changes in thermal radiation of external objects in the far-infrared range by a PIR sensor. The electrical output signal signal is processed by a suitable electronics which is able to distinguish the small differences caused by a moving person from other disturbances that could cause false alarms. The risk of false alarms is minimized by means like Fresnel lenses or mirror segments that divide the protected area into multiple segments. The man crossing the segments causes cyclic changes of IR radiation focused by the elements on the PIR sensor, which triggers the alarm.
Micro-wave (MW) sensors are based on the use of the Doppler effect, which is a physical phenomenon involving the change of the wavelength/frequency of the signal received by the observer caused by the movement of the wave source relative to the observer. The transmitter emits waves that are reflected from the various fixed objects inside the room and return to the receiver without a change of the wavelength/frequency. However, in the case of a moving object in the detection area, the signal reflected by the object (a "secondary" source) will show a difference in the wavelength/frequency interpreted as a violation of the protected area.
Dual detectors (PIR + MW) combine the advantages of infrared detectors and microwave detectors. By using two different detection elements, they are more resistant to false alarms. The electronics of the detectors analyzes both signals and triggers an alarm only in the case of simultaneous detection of an intruder.
Magnetic sensors (reed switches) are closed in sufficiently strong magnetic field of the magnets (when the magnet is close to the reed contact) and open when the magnet is moved away. Such sensors are basic elements of perimeter protection systems and their primary task is to detect attempts of opening doors and windows.
Depending on the requirements, alarm systems may incorporate smoke, carbon monoxide, gas, glass break, curtain etc. sensors/detectors that increase their functionality and increase the security of the protected facilities.
I/O modules expand the capabilities of alarm control units with additional inputs and/or outputs. The type of the outputs depends on the needs (OC or relay). Additional individual relay modules controlled by OC-type outputs can control high-power AC electrical devices/appliances, eg. with current consumption up to 12 A. In addition to the increase of the number of inputs/outputs, the expanders are often used for wired connections of detectors located in more distant locations (e.g. in a detached garage). As a result, there is no need to lay cables from each detector to the control panel. The communication between the sensors and control panels is performed via the expanders, with the use of the system bus.
The controllers enable the expansion of the system with additional wireless devices, e.g. detectors. They are connected to the control panel via the system bus. The programming is done via the control panel, using a keypad or computer running a dedicated software. Battery-operated wireless sensors can work approx. 2 years without battery exchange. The battery life depends on the transmission power and on how many times the transmission takes place. Wireless subsystems are ideal for use in each case where any additional wiring is unacceptable, e.g. due to aesthetic reasons. The installation is very fast and the maintenance is limited to periodical replacement of the batteries in the wireless detectors.
If the control panel does not have a built-in GSM module, an external GSM notification/control module will allow the transmission of information via GSM to a monitoring station/center or to phone numbers defined in the module. Usually the versatile modules can be used with control panels from different manufacturers. They communicate with them via dedicated inputs and outputs. Using the CLIP or SMS service, they enable control of some devices via the main unit. Other notification/control modules communicate with the control panels via system bus and are fully integrated with them (full exchange of data between the devices).
Optical-acoustic signaling devices (sirens, sounders, flashers) can be divided into internal/indoor and external/outdoor groups. The alarm control unit is usually configured in such a way that the optical alarm is active until resetting, while the acoustic signal is generated for a specified period of time. For example, some municipal bylaws limit alarm volume to 91 decibels for up to 4 minutes In this way, even in the case of a false alarm, the acoustic signal does not worry neighbors throughout a long time. The external devices are placed so that they can be well visible by people around the facility. Indoor sirens with very high alarm volume (120 dB) are intended to quickly deter thieves and prevent them from staying for a longer time in their vicinity.
A burglar alarm system consists of a series of electrical components that are connected to a property. Via sensors and contacts, they detect movement or the opening of doors and windows, upon which a loud alarm is produced to alert those nearby of the unauthorised entry.
How much to fit a burglar alarm? House alarm systems (including wireless alarms) have been popular with kenya home owners since the 1970s. Even though home burglary numbers have been dropping in recent years, having your home broken into and your valuables stolen is a very real fear for many.
So what is the average burglar alarm installation cost? For the simplest types of alarms you can install yourself, you’ll be looking at spending KSh25,000 depending on the number of sensors you choose for your home. Systems that call or message you start at around KSh 50,000 and range up to KSh 120,000. Monitored systems can start from KSh 100,000 and cost between KSh 10,000 a month thereafter.
First off, there’s a “bells-only” burglar alarm. If someone tries to break into your house, a very loud audible siren will start, lasting for around twenty minutes. You can choose an “alert” burglar alarm. In addition to the loud siren noise, the burglar alarm control panel sends out a message to up to 10 people if it detects a break in. Messages are sent via a landline or a mobile phone SIM card connection. It can either alert you by calling your phone (or the phone of a friend or family member) or it can get in touch with you via an app to your smartphone or tablet. As soon as the first person answers a call or a message, your alarm will stop trying to contact the others on your list. Last, there are “monitored” burglar alarms. In addition to the ringing noise, a message is sent to a live operator if a break-in is detected with monitored burglar alarms. The monitoring centre members of staff will then either try to phone you. Between you and the monitoring company, you work out a procedure that could lead to the police being called to attend your property if you do not give out a certain codeword or you do not pick up the phone when dialled. Monitored systems can also call a keyholder you nominate to go to check on your property – this could either be a friend, a family member, or a private manned security firm. Burglar alarm panels are always hardwired onto your home’s electrical circuit and have back-up batteries in case of power interruption or in the event that someone is trying to cut power to it. If your hard-wired burglar alarm loses power, it will normally set off the siren.
Burglar alarms work by measuring unexpected or unwanted changes.
Let’s say that you set your burglar alarm panel to cover your downstairs once you and your family have gone to bed. No-one should be downstairs from that point. If someone needs to go downstairs, they’ll know to switch the burglar alarm panel off to avoid the alarm sounding which will wake up the rest of the family.
The sensor then triggers a strobe light or siren, indicating that someone may be trying to break in. Motion detectors can monitor large areas in a house or business premise. In case of any movement within its range, the device sounds a siren or send a signal to programmed phone numbers for response.
The most common types of detectors are Passive Infrared Detectors (PIRs). They measure temperature within a room. If there is too much deviation in the temperature, it will sound the alarm – that’s because the body heat of a burglar will be a lot higher than the ambient temperature of the room that they’re in.
There are motion detectors which can even tell the difference between an intruder and a family pet. We have different types of alarms that will suit your needs. These include:Less common are magnetic contacts (sometimes called mag-contacts). You attached them to your windows and doors. Whenever a door or window is opened after you’ve turned your burglar alarm panel on, it will break the circuit. When that happens, the alarm goes off
How does magnetic contact work.When a magnetic field is placed parallel to the electrical connectors, it pulls them together, closing the circuit. Door sensors have one reed switch and one magnet, creating a closed circuit
Most people mistakenly do not see the value of alarm systems in until a tragedy happens. At Haven secure solutions , we advise our clients to always take precaution way before a tragedy occurs. Therefore, if you do not have security alarm systems, the best time to have one installed is now.Wireless alarm systems have been around since the 1980s
Wireless systems either use very weak radio signals or WLAN to connect the burglar alarm to the sensors . The sensors are normally battery-operated and these batteries will last for years. If a battery’s power starts to run low, it will send a message to the burglar alarm panel to alert you of that or it will start flashing a red LED light.
Wired burglar alarm systems, as the name suggests, need electrical wiring to be run between the burglar alarm panel and the sensors.
Once you have your quote for your security system, the next question will be how much to fit a burglar alarm?
It depends on how many sensors and the types of sensor you have around the home . It will also be influenced, in the case of wired alarms, at the cost of running the cable between the burglar alarm control panel and the sensors. Expect to pay a minimum of £400 to £800 for professional installation.
If you have a monitored alarm system, you cannot fit this yourself – it will have to be done by the company installing the system. A typical monitored alarm system costs between KSH 100,000 andKSH 200,000 for installation (one burglar alarm panel, two sensors, a keyfob to turn the alarm off and on, and a window/door contact) and betweenKSH 1,500 and £KSH 4,500 a month for monitoring.
Setting up a police monitoring service normally costs extra at installation and can add up between KSH 40,000 andKSH 80,000 to the original installation price. If you want to add extra sensors and keyfobs, budget between KSH 4,500 andKSH 8,000 per item.
Many installers genuinely believe that monitoring offers the best solution for homeowners so please expect to be quoted on this type of system more than others.
Through helping people to install such security alarms in Kenya, there are many who have stated that there has been a remarkable reduction in insecurity incidences. Additionally, home alarms have kept many homes free of thugs and trespassers . Our professional staff is here to help you decide on the perfect alarm system for your specific needs. Whenever you think about alarms Kenya, feel free to visit us or give us a call and we will give you the kind of service that you deserve.A smart intruder security system is a collection of internet-connected technologically advanced gadgets, which consist of door locks, motion sensors, wireless security cameras, sirens and sensors that can discover moments or suspicious activity when a window or a door is opened.
There are some high-end intruder systems models in the market that are run by a central internet-connected hub, which connects wirelessly with your tablet or smartphone and communicates with them. Through that, you can receive alerts, and view live CCTV footage. If you are looking to install one, look at the following tips to ensure you select the best system with advance technology.
Therefore, by installing an intruder protection system, checking the entrance and exit of friends and family and pets is easily possible, with little tags that can be attached to the wallet, key ring or your pet’s collar. Utilising these, you can be alarmed when an individual or pet arrives home, or if a helpless relative hasn’t moved for some time.
Smart criminals require a smarter, technology-driven security solution to protect what you hold most dear- your home. With rates of burglaries on the rise it is only wise to equip your home and yourself with the best tools to prevent and manage any emergencies
Listed here are 5 reasons which make investing in a wireless home security burglar alarm system a crucial decision for you: