Types of sensors used in an Intruder Alarm System | CCTV Training Oman

A sensor is an element of an alarm system used for detecting objects, phenomena, and physical parameters in the surroundings. The signal from the sensor is transmitted to the center, which records essential parameters, controls the alarm, and activates executive elements. Most associated with the alarm systems are the so-called movement detectors, the function of which is to detect moving around intruders; and the opening detector, known as contraction.

PIR – Movement detectors detecting movement by sensing radiation. They are installed mainly at home and in offices

 

PIR+MW – Movement detectors detecting movement by sensing infrared radiation, and in addition, by using microwaves. It’s a device resistant to sudden temperature changes or air movement. The detectors are installed in rooms with air-conditioning or mechanical ventilation, where doors or windows are draughty etc…

 

Contactor – Opening detectors, supervising the opening of doors or windows. The detector has got a contact, which is closed by the magnetic field generated by a magnet. If one of the elements is moved away from the other one, then, information is transmitted to the center.

 

Garage contractor – hermetic opening sensor, supervising the opening of garage gate. The detector has got a contact, which is closed by the magnetic field generated by a magnet. If one of the elements is moved away from the other one, then, information is transmitted to the center.

 

Other sensors, which can be frequently encountered in alarm systems are:

Fire detector – detects the presence of smoke in a room during the initial phase of the fire.

 

Gas detector - its mission is to rapidly detect when the threshold value of the concentration of one of the gasses is exceeded, and then to inform the alarm center of such incident.

 

Leak detector – especially useful when the owners are absent and there is a leak, e.g. due to a broken downpipe in a cellar, boiler room, laundry, or kitchen.

 

Window breaking sensor – reacting to sounds generated when windows are broken; useful at times when someone would want to break in inside through a broken window.

 

Magnetic Contacts

These sensors are typically used with alarm and automation systems, for doors, windows, man doors, overhead doors, safes or gates.

Motion Detectors

Motion detectors are available in either PIR (passive infrared) or Dual Technology (PIR and Microwave). Standard PIR motion sensors are typically used in residential and small business while dual tech sensors are ideally suited for high security or in areas that might normally trigger false alarms.

Ceiling Mount Motion Detectors

Ceiling mounted motion detectors tend to blend into the room and offer unique room coverage.

Outdoor Motion Detectors

Outdoor motion detectors are weather resistant and are less prone to false alarms caused by moving branches, leaves, or small animals. Typically outdoor motion sensors are used to trigger a pre-alert or warning rather than as a secure zone.

Smoke & CO Detectors

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are now legally required in most jurisdictions. These low voltage detectors are designed to be used with alarm and security systems.

Glass Break Detectors

Glass break sensors can provide extra security by detecting breaking glass or attempts to shatter the glass before the intruder has entered the building.

Water Sensors / Alarms

Add water sensors, moisture detectors, and water alarms to your security or automation system, or use them for standalone notification of water leaks

Temperature Sensors

These Temperature sensors are typically added to a security system zone to provide high or low-temperature alerts or alarms.

Heat Detectors

Heat detectors are now required in many jurisdictions and are used to detect fire in areas where a smoke detector is not practical. Heat detectors are often seen in garages, warehouses, underground parking lots, or kitchen or cooking areas. They detect either a fixed temperature or the speed in which the temperature is increasing (rate of rising).

Photo Beam Detectors

Photo beam detectors use a beam of light to provide perimeter protection. When the beam is broken the photo beam detector will trigger the alarm or security system. Photo beam detectors have either a sender and receiver or a sender/receiver combination with a reflector.

Roller / Plunger Sensors

Roller or Plunger sensors are great for inside door jams, to be used to detect whether a deadbolt is locked, or for doors or windows