Glassbreak Sensors

Nothing beats being able to sleep well at night – rainy nights in particular. But because safety is a major concern everywhere these days, completely drifting off to dreamland is sometimes so hard to achieve.

Safety should be more than just an option. With several home security ideas to choose from, safety is not something that only some people gets to enjoy. Since your options are widely varied, choosing the best security tool can be very confusing.

An effective home security system is one that deters any unauthorized person while they are still outside your home. Glassbreak sensors work to detect a break-in when a glass door or window is smashed. Thus, people who may not have neighbors very close by, or are away from the house for long hours, may want to install glassbreak sensors on doors or windows which may be susceptible to break-ins.

Generally, there are two categories which comprise glassbreak sensors: acoustic sensors and shock sensors. An acoustic glassbreak sensor is a crucial element if you intend to have an efficient perimeter security system. This category features an omnidirectional microphone which picks up the sound of breaking glass. Some types of glassbreak sensors under this particular category even acquire the necessary electrical energy from the breaking glass.

The other category of glassbreak sensors work to detect shockwaves or vibrations which are caused by any breaking object, or a door being kicked or forcibly opened. This category sends of the alarm through the shockwave created by breaking glass and not the sound of breaking glass itself. Since the actual “motion” produces shock frequencies which are transmitted through the glass and glass frames, the sensors sound the alarm as soon as they detect the wave generated by the breaking glass. Also, the various shock sensors are installed directly on the frames or glass, making it almost entirely impervious to false alarms.

There are certain types of glassbreak sensors which possess passive infra red (PIR) and microwave infrared features at the same time. These dual technology glassbreak sensors are designed to enhance security efficiency and reduce false alarms. Obviously, these are the best option since most people wouldn’t want to deal with alarms set off by completely innocent situations. Thus, when you want a glassbreak sensor unit installed, make sure that it satisfies the following elements: employs both acoustic and shockwave sensors, capable of detecting sound as far as 25 feet away, and is efficient with laminated, tempered, or wired glass.

A false alarm is set off when somebody inside the house drops something which produces a sound like that of a breaking glass. Radio or TV broadcasts, as well as keys jingling are usually some of the most common false alarm triggers. However, the most sophisticated glassbreak sensor models available feature both categories and have added more infrared sensors that are meant to reduce the incidence of false alarms.
The dual technology glassbreak sensors are perfect for use in rooms that have several windows. The location of the glassbreak sensors may be on the wall or ceiling. For rooms that only possess a single window, the “bug” or “button” glassbreak sensor is a cheaper choice. This shockwave sensor is installed on the window or frame, or very near to it. Such sensors cost less than half of dual technology type.

If you are curious how this particular security system works, you can consult a professional security system installer or provider. Some of them can also give you a demonstration using a portable unit to test the sensors they are installing.

It is apparent that glass does not provide the best deterrence against intruders. But it does not mean that there is no way that invasion can be avoided. With the vast selection of home security options, different levels of safety are achievable.