About Home Security Door Sensors

History

• Home security systems first became available at the beginning of the 20th century. They were very expensive and difficult to install. Therefore, only the very wealthy could afford to have one installed. These early systems had an alarm that was tripped if an intruder entered the house. They were very prone to false alarms. In 1969, a woman named Marie Brown secured a patent for a home surveillance system. Her system used television to survey properties, which was very expensive. Recently, however, as technology has improved and become more widely available, home security systems have become affordable enough for many homeowners to purchase.

Function

• A home security door sensor alerts the homeowner when a door is open. If the alarm is set, the sensor will send a signal to the system's central computer, which will sound the alarm or call the police depending on the settings for the system.

Types

• Home security door sensor works with magnets, but there are several different mounting options. The sensor mechanism is housed in one side of the unit, and the magnet is housed in the other side. When the metallic parts lose contact with each other, the sensor sends a signal to the alarm. Door sensors can be small, rectangular units attached to the door jamb and wall. This is a good option for renters. A more permanent and less visible option is to have the sensors recessed in the door and door jamb. Another variety rests on top of the door to keep the sensor out of sight.

Considerations

• Some home security door sensors are designed to only work if the door is closed when the alarm is set. This could be a problem in a house where there are lots of doors and lots of people coming and going. Make sure you know your needs and the details of different products before you choose a home security door sensor.

Benefits

• Home security door sensors offer a simple and effective way to monitor the doors in your home. Besides deterring intruders, door sensors can be helpful for parents of small children who have a tendency to wander off. Door sensors can be linked to an alarm system that sends out a small beeping noise every time the door opens, including when the alarm is not set. This is another home safety feature that is often overlooked.