How Does a Pressure Mat Alarm Work?

Mat

• The pressure mat alarm rests under a piece of carpet or sits on the floor like a welcome mat. This device is most effective when placed in common areas through which lot of traffic passes in a home, business, boat or other space. If a specified amount of weight -- such as a person -- exerts pressure on the mat while it is activated, the alarm responds by making a noise or turning on a light. Like other kinds of alarms, the system can also be set to notify the authorities upon activation.

Electronics

• The electronics of a pressure mat alarm are basic; a wire is connected to a small contact device, which remains open until the device is activated by weight. The electronic connection is so sensitive that even if a burglar attempts to move the pressure mat the alarm with sound. The buzzer will continue to make a noise until the pressure mat alarm is disengaged or turned off.

Benefits

• The advantage of pressure mat alarms are that they are discreet and difficult for a burglar to circumvent once. The pressure mat system is practically invisible unless it is engaged. The mat itself is lightweight and often decorative, similar to a welcome mat that rest outside the front door of your dwelling.

Components

• A pressure mat alarm system comprises a sensor or detector, a battery, a latch and a buzzer or light. The battery connects to the sensor terminals and engages the buzzer or light when activated. The sensor can be a LDR sensor, reed switch or trembler switch, depending on the thickness of the carpet or mat. All of these components connect to a buzzer, LED or filament bulb light. After the latch closes, a sound or light activates. The wiring can also be connected to a preexisting home burglar alarm system.