As security systems become ever more user-friendly and efficient, one has to pause and reflect on what alarm systems looked like in the 70’s, 80’s and beyond.
Alarm systems used to consist of a toggle switch box, connected to a series of vibration sensors and magnetic contacts on windows and doors. This rudimentary setup was turned on or off via a key-switch outside the entry door to a premises. At the end of the 1980’s the American-style keypad-and-control-box replaced this basic alarm box with its switches and LEDs.
Old Alarm System
With the introduction into South Africa of the digital keypad alarm systems came hardier indoor PIR (Passive Infra Red) detectors. Much later this included outdoor PIR sensors and pet-friendly detectors..
However, not much changed from then until now. From time to time manufacturers and installers would introduce tweaks in response to burglars changing their tactics. Yet the basic concept remained the same.
Keypad Alarm System
These days we are installing the magnificent HIKVISION AX PRO wireless intruder detection system for our clients. Whether for new installs or to upgrade tired and obsolete keypad alarm systems.
As with other great innovations like the automotive turbo which was designed for fuel-efficiency not speed, we started installing the AX PRO to overcome the annoying battery issues caused by loadshedding in South Africa. Where a typical alarm system might last 3-4 hours on a good back-up battery, this would decrease to 1 hour of battery backup a few months later.
Wireless systems like the AX PRO make use of integrated rechargeable Lithium batteries in the Hub (the control) and repeaters, while detectors are fitted with Lithium batteries which last up to 5 years, because of a clever technique that puts all sensors into a “sleep mode” when the alarm system is disarmed. Yet the real whizz-bang attraction of this new type of alarm system is that it comes out of the box ready to be controlled via an App on a client’s smartphone. So you can now operate your alarm system from home or the Himalayas, wherever you have wifi.
With add on wireless relays you can operate your gate automation, or whatever device you want to turn on or off remotely. Forgot that your new bed is being delivered? No problem, just disarm your alarm system with one button in your Hik-connect smartphone App, then open your driveway gate and garage door so the delivery guys can leave your purchase in a safe place.
Garden company arriving when you are at work? Just open the gate and turn off the garden alarm detectors.
We have definitely come a long way from having to change your lifestyle because you have to have an alarm system. Now you can have an aesthetically-minimalist alarm system with no wires and no ugly alarm radio transmitters filling your wardrobe, which you can control from a familiar interface. Your smartphone app.
The AX Pro Alarm System