How these systems work
An intrusion alarm uses sensors on doors, windows and inside rooms to detect entry or movement. When the system is armed and a sensor trips, the panel sounds a siren and, if monitored, notifies a central station. They in turn contact the police or key holders according to your instructions.
False alarms are a real cost. Many municipalities charge for repeated false dispatches, so proper installation and user training matter.
Common devices
- Door and window contacts
- Motion detectors and dual-technology sensors
- Glass break detectors
- Keypads and arming stations
- Sirens and strobes
- Panic or hold-up buttons
- Environmental sensors for water, temperature or power loss
- Monitoring connection by cellular or network
Planning the layout
We divide the building into zones that match how you use it, so one area can be armed while another remains open. A retail space may arm the stockroom during business hours. An office may arm each floor separately.
Sensors are placed to avoid false triggers from heating units, plants, sunlight and wildlife. This takes experience, and the layout is easier to get right when walls are open.
Integration and monitoring
Intrusion alarms work best alongside cameras and access control. Arming can be linked to card readers, and an alarm event can pull up camera views. Our team sets these links up as one coordinated system.
Backup power and communication are important. A power cut or a cut phone line should not disable the alarm. We install battery backup and cellular communicators, which suit Alberta's weather better than a single line that can fail.
Monitoring is a service contract with a provider, and options vary. We help you understand what is included, how call lists work and how often to review them. After installation, we train staff, test every sensor and document the setup. Periodic testing is recommended, and our maintenance service can handle it.