Electronic Alarms and Home Security Devices - Looking for some help!

Hey guys,

First time poster here and I love doing things myself and always have been a tech guy.

I never done alarm systems before and im sure its not too hard but i need some help.

I spent the last two weeks researching and looking at websites but I am unsure of what I need or when I do find a site they dont have hard wire sensors.

What I am looking at is 3 door sensors, 7 windows (Later), and two motion sensors.

I would love for all of this to be hardline and not wireless.

From my research and correct me if i am wrong but im going to need 6 zones? (windows will be one zone)

I am also looking for a slick keypad.

Does anyone have any idies and know a website where I can go to buy all of this stuff all in one place (The controls, sensors, resistors)


Thanks.
Jimmy

It's all about using the correct terminology. Don't search for "sensors". The phrase to use is "security alarm contact".

Any site that sells the controls will sell the contacts and at least a couple of motion detectors.

I would look for Ademco recessed 3/8" contacts part 951WG in either white or brown, or if you need surface mount look for Ademco 945T in white or brown.

Both of these SPST switches are held closed with magnet in close proximity. Alarm detection occurs when magnet is removed and the switch opens. I have used both for several years now and have found them to be very easy to install and very dependable.

If your panel supports normally closed switches you may not have to worry about resistors installed across the 'zones' and is a better way to go. If line cuts, switch fails or magnet falls off or is lost the zone is 'open' and will report.

Also best to home run all wires to the control panel (system board) enclosure location from all devices if possible. Secure with rounded staples or similar devices designed for wire retention and support. Switches only require 2 conductor wire but if you can run 4 conductor if they are in a hard to access or rewire will be problematic.

Avoid running your wires thru the same holes as AC lines, if they are to be parallel to them keep them more than 8" apart at all times. Crossing AC lines is good if you keep the crossing as close to perpendicular as possible.

Make sure you tie the system board ground to the common electrical bond for the home AC. This can be thru a 3 wire transformer that has the "Ground Post" for a three wire wall outlet or by running a Solid Core 18ga wire to the home's ground stake.

Lastly, check twice - drill or cut once - this will help you avoid trouble.

Good luck!

CB

Thanks for the info. Im still searching around and will post when I have started the project