It’s so important to install the components of your commercial alarm system in locations that will produce the best results. Even the most sophisticated system will be rendered ineffectual without the appropriate placement of your motion sensors and control keypad.
There are many variables that could impact the positioning of your motion detectors. One major factor is the functionality of the sensor itself and whether it is activated by infrared waves (heat), ultrasonic waves (reflection off a moving object), vibrations or a combination of triggers. The placement also depends on the layout and size of your building, as well as any specific requirements you may have.
While your security alarm system should be customised to the needs of your property, there are some general rules that can be applied to most cases. Here are the main considerations to be taken into account when positioning your commercial alarm system.
Entry Points
Before taking any steps toward purchasing or installing an alarm system, you should first assess your property to identify all possible entry points. This includes vulnerable areas that could provide an intruder with an opportunity for access. Once you know all the likely places that a burglar may attempt to use to enter your property, you’ll know how many sensors you’ll require and how to appropriately place them.
It’s ideal to put your motion detectors in the corner of the room that’s closest to the point of entry. Up in the corner, the sensor will have an unobstructed view of the entire space as well as the widest possible detection coverage. By installing the sensor above human height at 7ft or more, it will be less likely to trip and cause a false alarm. It will also be more difficult for an intruder to reach and interfere with it.
Doors & Windows
Although arguably a point of entry, you can get contact motion sensors that are specifically designed to signal the alarm when a door or window is opened. If you have a large building with multiple doors and windows across several storeys, it may be worthwhile looking into contact motion sensors as part of your security system.
Passageways & Staircases
Main thoroughfares are another key area for the placement of security alarm sensors, especially if the passageway leads directly to a space that houses valuable items.
To monitor corridors and staircases, it’s recommended to place the sensors along the wall. Most sensors will detect motion as it passes by in parallel, rather than movement that directly approaches head on. This is another reason why it’s better to position sensors in a nearby hallway, as opposed to the room itself that contains important business effects.
Avoid Heat Sources
If your security alarm system uses Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors that detect heat and associated movement, it pays to place the motion detectors away from windows and other sources of natural light. It’s very easy for a sensor to recognise heat in the form of sunlight and trigger a false alarm.
The same applies with air-conditioning vents and other heating systems. If your PIR sensors are too close to a heat producing unit, it could accidentally trip the alarm.
Control Keypad Placement
While not as critical to the effectiveness of the actual alarm system, it’s still advised to place control keypads out of sight. Meaning, it should not be visible to prying eyes looking into your building from the outside.
If an intruder knows exactly where your control keypad is located, it’s will be much easier to plan and coordinate a burglary. By installing the keypad away from windows and main entrances, you’ll be able to make it more challenging for criminals to access your property.
Commercial Alarm Systems Perth
Installing your own commercial alarm system is a major undertaking. To safeguard your building and ensure you get the best results from your security system, it’s best to engage a professional installation team. Tecsec Security Solutions have been protecting Perth businesses for more than 30 years and will be able to provide you with a security alarm system that’s best suited to the conditions of your property. Contact our friendly team of experts today.