Home Security Alarm General FAQ's

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What components or devices make up a home security system?

How do I find out which make/model home security alarm system I have?

What's the difference between a Control panel and a keypad?

How do I locate and change the system's standby battery?

How often should I change the standby battery?

How long will my alarm system function in the event of a power loss? 

How do I go about testing my alarm system and how ofter should it be done?

How do I find my low voltage transformer?

What is the difference between User Codes and Installer Codes?

What does it mean if a system is locked?

Can a locked home security alarm system be unlocked ?

When should an alarm system be upgraded/updated?

Can I install a security system myself?

What is the difference between hardwired and wireless?

How do you install a wireless home security alarm system?

What is the difference between perimeter protection and interior protection?

What is a Zone?

How do I figure out how many zones I need?

What is a Partition?

Where should I install my Control Panel?

Where should I install the low voltage transformer?

What are sensors and how many types are available?

What are magnetic contact switches?

What are motion detectors?

Do Pet Immune motion detectors really work?

What are glass break detectors?

What are smoke detectors?

What are Photo Electric detectors?

What size/type wire do I need?

What is meant by "series" connection?

What is meant by "parallel" connection?

How do I wire magnetic contacts, can I connect more that one on a zone?

How do I wire a motion detector, glass break, PE, etc?

Can I connect more than one motion, GB, etc on one zone?

What are "Zone Types" or "Zone Definitions"?

What are Zone Expanders?

What is an RJ31X, why do I need one and how do I hook it up?

What are End of Line Resistors and do I need them?

What is the Resistor Color Code?

What is the difference between a speaker and a siren?

Can I add a siren/speaker to my system?

Should I have my system monitored?

Can I monitor my alarm system myself (“self-monitor�)?

What is a Password/ID Code?

Can I be notified when my system is armed or disarmed?

Can I be notified of when zones are opened or closed?