How to Connect Security Alarm Switches in a Series

Electronic security systems typically sound the alarm if the system is monitoring all sensors and if the electrical circuit gets broken, such as if the electrical current no longer flows along the pre-existing circuit. This design decision is mandated by safety: if somebody attempts to cut the cable leading to a switch (presumably, in an attempt to disable the switch and escape detection), it has the same effect as tripping the switch. Because of that, switches in the same circuit (e.g., covering the same area of a house) are typically wired in a series. Tripping any of the switches interrupts the circuit and sounds the alarm.

Wire cutters
Screwdriver
2-wire cable, of the type used in alarm systems

Instructions

- 1
  Open the case containing the command console for the alarm system. Pick a circuit to use. The circuit has two connectors.
- 2
  Remove 3/4 inch of the insulation from the two-wire cable. Connect the copper-colored conductor to one of the two circuit connectors. Connect the silver-colored conductor to the other circuit connector. Screw both of them in. Close the console case, allowing the cable spool to dangle outside.
- 3
  Lay out the two-wire cable until you get to the intended location for the first switch. Strip away the outer layer of insulation in the cable. Cut open the copper-colored conductor while leaving the silver-colored conductor uninterrupted. Connect the resulting two endpoints of the copper-colored conductor to the two terminals at the switch. Screw both of them in.
- 4
  Repeat Step 3 for all switches in the circuit until you get to the last switch.
- 5
  Cut the two-wire cable completely. Strip away the insulation. Connect each of the wires to a terminal on the last switch. Screw both of them in. The circuit with all its switches is completely installed.

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