The window alarm is part of the home security system. Together with a variety of security sensors on the windows, it allows you to gain control over the premises and increase the security of the facility. The special devices used are designed to protect the premises from penetration and have different functions. The selection of sensors must be carried out according to a set of criteria, which gives an optimal result and increases the efficiency of the entire system.
- Necessity in everyday life
- Types of window detectors
- Types of window protection
- Features of choosing security alarm devices for windows
- Motion Detection Detectors for Windows
- Infrared passive detectors
- Ultrasonic detectors
- Glass break detection detectors
- Magnetic contact detectors reed switches
- Radio wave detectors
- Vibration detectors
- Position Detection Detectors
- Combined detectors
- Equipment used in alarms
- Possible alarm malfunctions
- Window and door opening sensors
- Sensors for breaking and passage blocking
- Blocking windows from breaking
- Features of installation and testing
Necessity in everyday life
The window opening sensor and similar devices are an integral part of the security alarm system. Using the equipment, you can obtain information about a hack at any time. An example of an action is that an attacker opened a window, the mechanism worked and transmitted information to the owner of the premises in the prescribed manner.
Full-fledged security kits allow you to preserve property and increase your own safety through early warning of danger. This criterion is the most important, so you should not skimp on protecting the object.
Wireless or wired security sensors are selected according to the required functions. Since the security sector is quite developed, it is possible to purchase and install signaling and blocking elements of various types. This approach will ensure that the house will be protected.
Popular alarm sets
Many modern manufacturers of smart electronics supply the market with ready-to-install security alarm kits. Their undeniable advantage lies in their ease of use. The kit contains all the components necessary to create your own security system. Let us consider below the most popular alarm kits for windows and doors among users.
Security alarm kit ALSET-2000
This set from Alset is a set of wireless sensors designed to control the opening of doors and windows. All detectors operate from built-in batteries. The kit includes an optical-sound siren capable of maintaining remote communication with 16 sensors. When you try to remove any sensor, or when it is opened or destroyed, an alarm also occurs. To disable or activate it, use the remote control.
The Alset-2000 system can be adapted into a “smart home” through the OCTOPUS Control station framework. In this case, the user will be able to receive notifications about the opening of a door/window on his smartphone. Also, in remote mode, it is possible to enable or disable the security mode. The range of interaction with a mobile device via WiFi is:
- In open space – 120m.
- Indoors – 70m.
The detectors, due to their high level of moisture resistance, can be installed outdoors. The cost of the basic set is 4.6 – 5.5 thousand rubles.
Wi-Fi/GSM alarm system CARCAM GSM ALARM KIT
This kit is a ready-to-install and use alarm system set. It includes:
- System control panel with WiFi and GSM transmitting modules.
- IR motion sensor.
- IR sensor for opening a window or door.
- 2 remote controls.
In addition, 24 sensors for various purposes can be integrated with the control panel: security, fire, water leaks or gas leaks. Through the free CARCAM Smart Home mobile application, supported by both Android and iOS, the control panel establishes a connection with the owner’s smartphone. Thanks to this, the user will be able to receive messages even while away from home. The cost of the kit starts from 3.5 thousand rubles.
Door and window opening sensor Xiaomi Aqara Window Door Sensor MCCGQ11LM
The operating principle of this sensor is based on the principle of breaking the electromagnetic circuit. When a window or door is opened, contact between the two elements of the system is lost and an alarm is triggered. The sensor is equipped with built-in memory and can work in tandem with the Aqara Hub controller.
In addition to security functions, it will be able to perform a number of additional actions. For example, turn on the air conditioner, heating system, lighting or other smart devices of the smart-house system at a certain time. Through the Zigbee protocol, using the HomeKit framework, you can also control devices in the Apple ecosystem. The cost of the sensor is about 1.5 thousand rubles.
On AliExpress the price starts from 716 rubles
Types of window detectors
Previously, security was carried out by wired devices, but now the wireless option allows you to equip an area with any parameters due to a more free arrangement of sensors.
Wireless sensors installed on windows perform security and warning functions. The signal notifies the owner and protects against burglary. In addition to the usual notification and sound signal, data from the devices can be transmitted directly to the security console. There are a number of notification methods, but often an opening detector is combined with security elements, which increases the safety of the home.
Types of window protection
Protection methods are varied, but some of them have become more widespread. Main types:
- mechanical. This includes strengthening the opening with a structure with a metal frame, a set of reinforced fasteners or latches. Metal gratings can be used. Most often, this method of protection is used on the lower floors (this also includes window locks to protect children from falling out of windows);
- spatter (armored film), based on the use of a special film that is layered on the surface. This method increases the strength of the glass and resistance to mechanical damage, that is, it is more difficult to break the canvas;
- security alarm it is installed on the windows to notify the owner about illegal entry of strangers into his property, and also has a sound that scares away the intruder. A common case will be a magnetic mechanism consisting of two contacts that diverge when opened, which facilitates the rapid transfer of data to the control panel and the activation of an alarm signal.
The latter method is reliable and popular.
The detectors included in the kit can perform several functions at once, which increases the ability to secure the premises from penetration or burglary.
BLOCKING WINDOWS FOR BREAKING
The easiest way to penetrate an object is to break glazed surfaces - windows, shop windows, stained glass windows, glass blocks, etc. To detect such attempts, the following are used:
- acoustic (sound) sensors;
- linear detectors of the “Foil” type;
- vibration devices “Window”, “DIMK”.
This site has separate material about acoustic glass break detectors, so I will not dwell on this issue in detail.
I will only say that the most often used sensors for these purposes are “Astra-S”, “Harp” and “Glass”. Their undoubted advantage is installation outside the glazed surface. This allows you to preserve the design of the room, in addition, the amount of installation work is minimal.
The main disadvantage of acoustic devices is their “helplessness” when removing the entire window panel. For plastic windows, this is not important, since it is impossible to remove it from such a structure without destroying the glass. For old-type frames that have fastenings such as glazing beads or external corners, this point must be taken into account.
The method of protecting the window with foil, glued along the perimeter of the glass and having at least two transitions to the frame, eliminates this drawback. It is impossible to pull out the canvas without damaging the alarm cable. Of course, from an aesthetic point of view, this method does not stand up to criticism.
In addition, it is very labor-intensive to install and maintain. Also, such blocking will not save you from cutting out part of the glass and then removing it. Lately, foil is rarely used and I mentioned it more for general education. But in dachas, wooden windows of the mentioned type are found quite often, so this sensor should not be completely discounted.
Now regarding vibration sensors for breaking detection
. All of them are fixed on glass, so to one degree or another they deteriorate the design of the room. "Window" is well suited for protecting large surfaces consisting of small glass fragments, such as verandas and stained glass windows.
It includes several glass break sensors (GBS) and a signal processing unit. Each DRS is glued to the protected surface and connected to the signal processing unit. The BOS is connected to a loop or directly to a receiving and control device. Such a detector reacts to glass breaking or non-destructible impact.
The inertial magnetic contact sensor (IMC) is also installed directly on the glazed surface and reacts:
- to be broken or hit;
- an attempt to remove glass or frame from the mounting structure.
That is, it reacts to both vibration and tilt relative to its vertical mounting axis. All of the listed sensors, with the exception of acoustic ones, do not require additional power.
Features of choosing security alarm devices for windows
The set of functions and requirements for devices are preliminarily determined. One of the simplest means would be magnetic elements. The reed switch is designed to operate when the contact opens. But there are also special kits that include a large number of sensors with a control center. An example is the Smart Sentinel GSM security system. What to look for when choosing:
- compatibility with security, if already in place;
- quality and reliability. It is worth checking reviews and reviewing recommendations from the manufacturer;
- Ease of use;
- the ability to use alerts via the Internet, mobile communications and similar methods.
All this must be taken into account at the preliminary stage of selecting warning and alarm systems. Not every window opening sensor will fully function in conjunction with other alarm elements. For example, there is no possibility of connecting via the Internet.
Design Features
During the preparation of design documentation, window structures are considered comprehensively. They must allow natural sunlight into the room and be able to open (sashes, transoms). Separately, “Smart Home” schemes are created for roller shutters, blinds and other protective components of the complex.
How a window project for the Smart Home system is formed, stages.
- Analysis of structures. Their size, fitting capabilities, and additional components are taken into account. The latter include blinds, roller blinds, and curtains connected to a control and monitoring system.
- Selecting the required functions. This can be automatic opening (ventilation), partial dimming (for high-tech glass), opening or closing protective structures manually or according to a specific scenario.
- Equipment selection. Add-ons (execution devices) or fully intelligent models are used. An example is accessories from Rehau or ready-made solutions from Xiaomi.
- System Setup. It is planned to install additional sensors, control units, and monitoring modules.
Similar projects can be used for country cottages, apartments, office and industrial facilities. It is important that in the Smart Home complex, window structures provide reliable operation and protection. For the latter, it is necessary to study all the functions of the complex associated with window structures.
Important: for design, you can use ready-made solutions or order the development of an individual Smart Home system, the windows of which will have unique abilities, for example, becoming a screen for video footage.
Motion Detection Detectors for Windows
As detectors, a conventional window opening sensor or various means with modified functionality and operating principles are used. Each equipment has individual characteristics. This point must be taken into account when choosing.
Infrared passive detectors
A passive infrared detector responds to changes in the temperature of the external environment. The passage of a person is accompanied by an increase and decrease in temperature in a particular place, which makes it possible to record the appearance of an intruder. Such detectors can be installed anywhere, but differ in the angle of action.
Ultrasonic detectors
An ultrasonic sensor operates by sending waves at a specific frequency. When it hits a person, the frequency changes. Such mechanisms can be deceived, so they are used only in conjunction with other types of detectors.
Glass break detection detectors
The mechanism that allows you to detect a break is called seismic. The element is fastened to the frame or the glass sheet itself. When a window is broken, a shock frequency is recorded, which is captured by the device.
Magnetic contact detectors reed switches
Reed switches are classified as means that react to opening and closing. The action process is based on magnetic contacts.
Radio wave detectors
The detector is used to detect intruders using waves that go from the transmitter to the receiver. Often in systems they are combined with passive infrared detectors.
Vibration detectors
The vibrating device is most often installed on the opening. This allows you to record an attacker's attempt to penetrate. Modern devices can detect even slight vibrations in the glass, which will trigger an alarm.
Position Detection Detectors
Changing the position allows you to detect the intruder using visible or infrared rays. It is recommended to install such protection elements in a chaotic manner. The most common type of such detectors is photoelectric.
Combined detectors
The combined option is used to increase the capabilities and increase the protection of the premises. Combination options may include various means. But here you need to pay attention to reliability, which is not always available due to its complicated appearance.
Advantages and disadvantages of different types
Methods for detecting tampering with a sensor directly affect its functionality, limitations and capabilities. Each type has advantages and disadvantages:
- Linear. The simplicity of the device also has many disadvantages of this design. The first and main one is the visibility of the sensor itself. Any intruder, seeing a strip glued to the glass, will try to enter the room without damaging it. What is quite easy to do is to remove only that part of the window that is not in contact with the sensor. Or the frame simply opens. The disposability of the design can also be considered a disadvantage; any violation of the integrity of the sensor will require its replacement. However, the low price of the sensors makes it possible to smooth out this negative factor.
In addition to those already listed, we should not forget that a transparent or partially permeable strip applied to the glass interferes with the view through it, reducing the aesthetics of the window. - Responsive to noise. An incomparable plus is the ability to place the sensor next to the window, and not directly on the glass. The downside is that the acoustic sensor is difficult to configure for specific conditions and can periodically trigger false alarms due to street noise. In addition, an intruder may be quiet enough not to cause the device to be activated.
- Magnetic. Such sensors will not give a signal if the glass is damaged, but will react to the illegal opening of a window. Their advantage is simplicity of design, undemandingness, relatively low price and the possibility of reusable use. The downside is limited application and the need to monitor operation over time. The latter is necessary so that the device does not give a danger signal when the window is opened authorized.
- Vibration sensors. Probably the most reliable type of security sensors, reacting to any vibrations of the surface to which they are attached. The downside is false alarms when moving heavy vehicles under the windows or too loud music coming from vehicles. Another factor limiting their use is the visibility of the sensor itself to an intruder. The sensor is usually attached to the surface of the glass, which means it makes it possible to see which part of the window is not equipped with it.
Any security system is best used with a wide variety of sensors and related equipment. We are talking not only about window detectors, but about all devices in the complex of equipment that detect the entry of an outsider into a room. This includes various motion detectors, noise eliminators, alarm equipment and video surveillance. A unified system will increase the chances of determining the occurrence of illegal actions. In addition, the central device that coordinates the work of the entire complex often has many additional capabilities. Among which, it would not be amiss to mention, automatic calling of security structures by phone or various types of messages, including SMS and email.
Equipment used in alarms
Any signaling option must provide the necessary protection. To do this, it is assembled from different devices. The basis is a mechanism that reacts to opening.
The opening agent most often has two components. When the magnet contact opens, the actuation process occurs. The design differs when mounted on metal and other types of frames.
Depending on the need, elements can be placed hidden or open in the visible area of the window. The sensor that protects the glass from breaking is considered more complex. There are three types of mechanisms:
- acoustic. Among the advantages are installation outside the glass and high efficiency. A disadvantage is considered to be the lack of reaction to completely removing the window panel;
- linear is installed over the entire canvas, which allows the tapes to cover the entire area and fully function in case of any form of damage. There is a significant disadvantage in the form of complexity of installation work and maintenance;
- The vibrating one is fixed to the glass sheet. A common use case is segmented glass formations, for example, stained glass windows. After vibration, the sensors transmit data to the electronic unit, which turns on the signal.
In some cases, the equipment includes different means. It is also possible to purchase mixed sets that will perform several functions at once.
Possible alarm malfunctions
Possible malfunctions have several causes. Among them:
- The window opening sensor is faulty;
- acoustic and vibration sensors were incorrectly configured;
- the wire line connecting the device and the control unit is damaged;
- lack of communication, including radio;
- No power supply;
- the presence of a poor contact at the output, which provides connection to the external part.
To keep systems in good working order and in full working order, regular maintenance is required with the help of service centers. Any minor failure also requires inspection by a specialist.
In most cases, partial or complete system failure occurs due to improper installation or lack of regular maintenance. For this reason, independent configuration of sensors and alarm components is not recommended.
What types of alarms can be installed on doors and windows?
Full control over home security is the main purpose of a smart security system. For full operation, it must contain a whole range of technical devices: CCTV cameras, motion sensors, emergency lighting and alarm detectors installed on window and door openings.
The main purpose of an alarm for opening doors and windows is to prevent unauthorized entry into a house or room. Also, such devices are equipped with additional functionality. For example, a number of modifications have built-in processors or are able to interface with a smart-house central control hub. This allows you to fully integrate them into the overall smart home security system.
Such devices will not only provide warning of an intrusion. With their help, you can track the time of children's return from school, and record their absences from home without parental permission. Door opening sensors connected to surveillance cameras will be able to transmit an image online to the owner’s smartphone. This way, the user will be able to remotely see who entered or left the house.
Alarm sensors can be installed not only on entrance doors and windows. Hidden detectors can be placed on interior doors, on cabinets and desk drawers with important documents, on safes. If anyone tries to enter the “forbidden space” - a child, a relative, neighbors - the owner will receive immediate notification of this.
All such detectors are small in size and can be installed almost anywhere on a door or window frame, attached to adhesive tape, a magnet, or self-tapping screws. Based on the connection method, sensors are divided into two large groups:
- Wired. Connection to a power source, central hub, or other devices associated with them occurs using wires.
- Wireless. They operate using autonomous sources of electricity - batteries or rechargeable batteries. Communication with the owner’s mobile device and with other components of the “smart home” is carried out via WiFi, a radio transmitter or a built-in GSM unit.
Depending on the needs, each homeowner will be able to choose the model that best suits his needs. This is either an expensive smart device that has many additional functions, or a simple device from the lower price segment, capable of notifying residents with a sound or light alarm about the opening of a door or window.
Window and door opening sensors
A detector based on a magnetic contact structure is used to detect intrusions into the house, as well as to protect part of the premises. The device can be wired or wireless. Two elements are used in the form of a reed switch and a magnet, which are installed on the same solution line or with a certain distance between them.
These mechanisms are reliable and simple.
Sensors for breaking and passage blocking
Special means allow you to block an opening or a breach when a signal is received. There are detectors that are aimed at a specific type of action:
- breaking or demolition of structures;
- opening;
- breach or passage.
This method makes it possible to block the premises in time and prevent the criminal from entering or exiting it.
Blocking windows from breaking
The most common method of entry is breaking glass. For this reason, various mechanisms of acoustic, vibration or linear type are used. Whenever an attempt is made to enter, the detector transmits a signal to the control panel or electronic center.
Invisible protection of windows from penetration
The main objects that require reliable protection from burglary and unauthorized entry are country houses and dachas, gyms and other objects located on the ground floors.
How to competently solve the problem of ensuring the safety of windows made of plastic, wood and metal structures? A professional approach is to not disturb the interior design of the room, use alarm systems and alerts about burglary or opening.
Security alarm for windows
The most effective in terms of price and operational reliability is a magnetic alarm system for opening a window, balcony door, blinds, etc. designs. The simplest set of such a signaling system consists of magnetic contact detectors (reed window opening sensors) and a control and receiving device (alarm module). The operating principle of such a kit is based on the fact that when the contacts (magnets) of the sensor open, an alarm signal is generated and transmitted to the alarm controller.
Photo: sensors to protect windows from intrusion
The magnetic elements of the sensor are installed on movable structures and, due to their small size, are invisible to the eye. The device activates the GSM module, which transmits an SMS message to the owner, or turns on the warning siren. This solution is good in size, fits unnoticeably into the interior, and can be controlled via mobile phones and other devices connected on the ground floors of apartments, dachas, garages and outbuildings.
What alarm sensors are installed on windows?
Security sensors for opening windows and doors are divided into wired and wireless, depending on the type of installation. According to the principle of operation, window opening security alarm detectors are classified into point magnetic contact (reed switches) and sound (acoustic - glass breaking).
The optimal price solution for protecting cottage windows from thieves is the reed switches of the IO 102-11M series. Their compliance with GOST safety standards, cylindrical design, long service life, and ease of operation make these window sensors an effective budget solution. Sets of magnetic contacts and cellular alarms are an effective way to protect terraces, loggias, gyms, roller shutters and other modern window systems from opening.
Photo: window protection sensor against thieves and children
Using a GSM alarm, you can find out not only about illegal entry into the house, but also whether children opened a window or balcony door. Don’t forget about mechanical protection against penetration, which can be achieved using windows from the best brands, such as VEKA.
VEKA - reliable German quality
VEKA windows today are perhaps the most popular in the construction market. The secret of success is high quality: German manufacturers are constantly improving their products using new technologies.
The first window profiles released by the company had a width of 58 mm. They replaced the old wooden ones, which were installed in almost all houses of the Soviet Union. The 58 cm width of the new PVC windows made it easy to install them, in accordance with the width of the walls of the old buildings. And today this profile is the most popular, since the designers made sure that its quality can withstand temperature changes that are characteristic of many Russian regions.
In the 80s of the last century, window manufacturing companies began producing profiles 70 mm wide. They are usually installed in houses located in noisy areas. Excellent sound insulation, as well as high heat-saving characteristics, made these products indispensable for residents of the northern regions of the country.
More recently, many manufacturing companies began to produce profiles with a width of 90 mm. This is a true representative of the premium class of products, the characteristics of which are unlikely to be comparable to other profiles. It should be noted that the width of the profile affects the cost of the double-glazed window; the most budget option is a 58 mm profile.
How to properly care for a window
Plastic windows are easy to maintain. They do not require frequent washing, annual tinting or insulation. But this does not mean that they do not require care. Their service life depends on how correctly the windows are maintained and used.
Double-glazed windows are sealed, so if they are not opened periodically, condensation may occur. To avoid this, you need to ventilate the room more often, especially in living rooms and the kitchen. Attention should be paid to drainage systems; they may become clogged and not do their job. After the heating season, you need to check them and, if necessary, remove dirt from them.
The fittings installed on double-glazed windows are reliable, but they also require periodic maintenance. Parts need to be lubricated with oil once every six months; it is important that it does not contain acid or resin impurities.
To answer the question: which profile of plastic windows is better and safer, you need to take into account many parameters, as recommended by specialists installing Grion intrusion protection systems. For example, what is suitable for a country house is unlikely to suit a homeowner in Magadan. But it is important to remember that a window of any profile requires care and attention.
Modern means of protection and safety
Our online store employees will provide qualified assistance in selecting technical security equipment to protect against intrusion into apartments, cottages and commercial facilities. Our equipment - modern sensors and alarms comply with GOST standards, are easy to maintain and meet the requirements of modern design.
Special prices and conditions of delivery and installation for customers of high-tech security equipment of private security companies, homeowners associations, turnkey projects!
Our company will offer profitable and effective ways to protect stores, offices and private homes from thieves using alarm systems, access control systems, and CCTV. GRION implements advanced protective systems for tracking children and loved ones, monitoring vehicles, warning devices and preventing emergency situations - fires, floods, gas leaks, heating problems.
Favorable prices for modern security detectors
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Features of installation and testing
Installation and maintenance of security systems has several features. Nuances:
- the sound element is installed with the microphone part directed towards the security object and maintaining the established optimal distance of 2.5-3.6 meters;
- A detector that reacts to breakage and is sensitive to a certain frequency must be checked several times. The optimal setting is considered to be triggered 3 times in a row without interruption;
- When arranging a room, its parameters and interior are taken into account. A special case is curtains, which can interfere with the operation of certain types of devices;
- installation is carried out only according to the instructions from the manufacturer;
- Even if there are no complaints, a systematic check of the work is necessary.
The inspection or installation process is carried out by a specialist with appropriate qualifications and experience. Otherwise, there is no guarantee that the result will be good. Each sensor that is used to protect a window opening has its own installation requirements.
Window alarms can include different types of devices. Each detector has an individual set of characteristics. A selection of different types of means is recommended, which together will significantly increase the security of premises by expanding the ability to detect an attempt to penetrate.
What to pay attention to
Periodic checking of the functioning of the entire system is required. This is due to the fact that any sensor can degrade over time and stop functioning. All devices except tape devices are tested by activating them while the security system is enabled. Linear ones are tested either by the monitoring device itself, or by routinely checking the line in a state disconnected from the alarm device. In a working sensor it is always closed, and if this is not the case, then the sensor needs to be replaced.
Radio sensors, in addition to their convenience, also have an unpleasant feature. It is necessary to monitor the battery charge level and replace batteries in a timely manner. In addition, their complexity leads to periodic, albeit rare, failure of sensors.
