Selecting the right alarm system

A GUIDE TO SELECTING THE RIGHT ALARM SYSTEM

When selecting a security alarm it is important to consider what features and functionality you require from the system. Depending on the type you choose, you can detect a variety of things – from human body motion to flooding water and even glass breakage. You may decide you want to remotely self-monitor your alarm system via your mobile phone or perhaps you are only requiring a local alarm system which has no remote self-monitoring.

Below is a simple questionnaire you may like to use to assist you in your decision making process or if you would prefer, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to discuss your needs.

Local Alarms also known as a ‘Standalone’ means that if your alarm system is triggered the strobes and sirens will flash and make noise locally but will not remotely notify you of an alarm condition. The system will reset after a pre-set time. You will find local alarm packages here Local Alarms.

A Self-monitored alarm is an alarm that you can remotely monitor via your mobile phone. We have four types of self-monitored alarms. The Chuango G5W (3G), AW1 Plus, AWV Plus and Smanos' K1. The G5W requires a SIM card and will therefore SMS and/or call the stored numbers when there is an alarm condition, mains power failure or power restore and low battery status conditions. You also have the flexibility to arm and disarm the system from your mobile phone. G5W alarm packages can be viewed here.

The Chuango AW1 Plus, AWV Plus and the Smanos K1 WiFi alarm systems are similar to the G5W however they use your WiFi internet connection and communicate with you via push notifications. You can also remotely control these systems via your mobile phone and view the last 300 history events. Up to 5 mobile phones can be connected for remote self-monitoring. AW1 Plus & AWV Plus alarm packages can be viewed here.

Click here to view the Smanos K1 Smarthome WiFi alarm system.

Will you be requiring Home/Night arming for when you’re asleep at night?
If the answer to this is ‘yes’ the Chuango G5W, AW1 Plus, AWV Plus and the Smanos K1 security alarms all have this feature.

How many people will be using the system?
When there are multiple people using the system, having a wireless keypad at the main entrance point can be very useful for arming and disarming the alarm system. Arming and disarming can be carried out via remote control, keypad, RFID swipe tags or by using your mobile phone if you have a self-monitored system. Remotes, Keypads & RFID Tags can be viewed here.

Do you want to receive an SMS when someone has armed or disarmed your security alarm?
If the answer is ‘yes’ then the Chuango G5W (3g) security alarm is the alarm system you will require as it has this function. When the RFID Tags are used to arm or disarm the alarm panel it can be programmed to send you an SMS with the name of the person that armed or disarmed the alarm.

How many areas, rooms, doors and windows do you need to protect?
We suggest having Motion Sensors (PIR’s) covering entrance ways, the hallway, living areas, master bedroom and any other areas where you have valuable items that need protecting.

Door/window sensors are ideal for most types of doors and window and many customers find it very comforting knowing they can arm their Chuango alarm at night time while they sleep.

Do you have pets?
The Chuango PIR-910 is designed to be Pet Immune. The pet immune feature is suitable for dogs 25kg or less but this is a guide only. If your pet is likely to jump up onto furniture this can cause false alarms. If you have cat(s) the PIR-910 must be positioned away from bench tops, tables and furniture that the cat(s) is/are likely to jump up onto. If this is not taken into consideration it is likely you will experience false alarms from your system.

The Smanos MD-20 is also a Pet Immune PIR motion detector. The MD-20 has three setting levels and is most suitable for larger pets or cats.

These are just some general questions you should consider. You can always call us on 0800 888 727 to discuss your requirements and we will be happy to recommend the most suitable alarm system.