Components of an Anti-theft System

A security system typically consists of:

  • a control panel
  • one or more sirens
  • one or more sensors
  • one or more key switches
  • one or more keypads

There are different types of sensors: some detect intrusions through doors or windows (perimeter), others detect movements inside spaces (volumetric), and others detect flooding or dangerous smoke.
Optional devices can be added to extend security functions with automation and home automation features.

Wired or Wireless

Peripheral connections (key switches, keypads, sensors) to the control panel can use different technologies.
Traditionally, wired technology (analog and/or digital) has been preferred which, despite higher installation costs (wire threading, cabling), ensures high security standards and efficient maintenance (single power source in the control panel).
The wireless solution offers undoubted advantages of reduced installation costs, balanced against security risks related to radio channel sabotage (jamming, etc.) and battery dependence for each peripheral.
Until recently, the advantages/disadvantages ratio favored wired systems. However, technological evolution has made wireless systems more secure and energy efficient: a wireless system with high security standards and battery life exceeding 5 years is now an excellent solution for small and medium-sized installations.

Siren, SMS, or Internet?

An anti-theft system’s purpose is to detect and signal alarm conditions. Traditionally, signaling occurs via siren and voice message or SMS. These notification types have criticalities:

  • sirens, while excellent deterrents, tend to be ignored in urban areas.
  • voice messages or SMS usually use a GSM dialer (cellphone integrated into the control panel) that can be “blinded” (disturbed with jammers). The cellular system isn’t designed to detect such attacks, unlike security system wireless that continuously monitors radio connections with all peripherals. This means notifications might not be sent.

Modern systems use a server to receive notifications via internet (cloud) and distribute them to respective contacts via app (with push notifications). Internet technology ensures notification delivery security and constant monitoring of the connection with the control panel.
This means if a security system communicates only via cellphone, when jammed it can at most sound the siren but cannot communicate externally. However, a security system’s cloud connected via internet, even with interrupted internet connection, can communicate externally about the lack of connection with the control panel.
The greater reliability of internet systems is usually integrated with the ability to send notifications to Security Companies using standard protocols. Reporting a potential theft requires maximum efficiency: alarm details automatically appearing on trusted Security Company’s operations center monitors save precious seconds that can make a difference.