8 Great Hidden Security Sensors to Separate You From DIY Competitors
Take a look at some hidden sensors that will differentiate your professional offerings from the ever-growing list of DIY security options.
We’ve all seen the commercials showing how easily anyone can buy and install their own wireless security systems. The public is quickly and emotionally convinced these types of systems can replace the technology and skills that have evolved over decades from the professional alarm community.
Yes, need I remind everyone, the implementation of electronic security is a profession and not a hobby. We must do more to educate the security-naive public to this fact.
That’s my little hint to the professional associations that represent the security industry. So what does all this have to do with hidden security? As professionals we need to possess skills and products in our sales bags that distinguish our work from these simple wireless alarm systems.
The basic footprint of wireless DIY alarm systems may tell burglars, “Here I am, come and get me.” I’ve cautioned how such systems could be easily compromised, but it’s playing out to the point where I recently noticed publicly-available online information to build a snooping device that can collect the wireless access code of some popular alarm systems — and for an equipment cost of less than $250.
I also noticed some security technicians discussing that their wireless customers and neighbors had unknown RF interference that was intermittently affecting alarm system performance. Security dealers should be compiling this info for their sales presentations!
Hidden security sensors can do several things. First, they can show customers some impressive alternatives to typical visible door contacts and PIRs.
Second, the strategic implementation of one or two of these hidden sensors can greatly diversify a system and can create an unseen challenge even for savvy burglars.
These are not sensors and techniques that a consumer can just pick up at their local big-box store or even online without professional experience.
Let’s take a look at some hidden sensors that will differentiate your offerings from the DIY riffraff.
View 8 Great Hidden Sensor Options
Tool Tip
In keeping with our hidden theme, I’m highlighting the Ion Security Plunger wireless door sensor. This is the world’s smallest recessed transmitter, according to the company, for creatively concealing wireless sensors for wood, vinyl or aluminum clad windows.
It’s easy to install since it is a plunger contact. Compatibility with current DSC, GE, HAI and 2GIG wireless receivers really enhances the product’s value.
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About the Author
Bob Dolph, SSI Contributor
Bob is currently a Security Sales & Integration "Tech Talk" columnist and a contributing technical writer. Bob installed his first DIY home intercom system at the age of 13, and formally started his technology career as a Navy communication electronics technician during the Vietnam War. He then attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering and went on to complete a Security Management program at Milwaukee Area Technical College. Since 1976, Bob has served in a variety of technical, training and project management positions with organizations such ADT, Rollins, National Guardian, Lockheed Martin, American Alarm Supply, Sonitrol and Ingersoll Rand. Early in his career, Bob started and operated his own alarm dealership. He has also served as treasurer of the Wisconsin Burglar and Fire Alarm Association and on Security Industry Association (SIA) standards committees. Bob also provides media and training consulting to the security industry.
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Great information dear.