There are many types of fire alarm systems readily available on the market. All types of fire alarm systems have essential function in detecting and containing fires. Some types of fire alarm systems are interfaced with an auto dialer that will automatically notify the fire department and emergency rescue personnel in an event of fire.
Wired fire alarm systems are of three types. These are the conventional fire alarm system, addressable fire alarm system and the analogue addressable fire alarm system.
The conventional types of fire alarm systems are composed of a number of detectors and call points. These fire detectors and call points are all wired and connected to the fire alarm system control panel by zones. These zones help identify where the fire started or where the fire is located. An audible alarm system is also connected to the control panel which gives off an alarm (usually a very loud bell) in an event of fire
One of the other types of fire alarm systems is the addressable fire alarm system. These systems are very much the same with the conventional fire alarm system. However these systems can pinpoint the exact location of the fire, unlike the conventional system wherein the location of the fire is determined by zone. The control panel of this fire alarm system is programmed to provide specific information when a particular detector is activated. The sounders or audible alarms of these systems are similar to the conventional ones.
Analogue addressable fire alarm systems are more recognized as The Intelligent Fire Alarm type of system. There is also a number of types of analogue fire alarm system determined by operational procedure. Analogue fire alarm systems are more complex and consist of more components than the other types of fire alarm systems. This is to determine and avoid false fire alarms from occurring.
Some fire alarm systems have fire sprinkler systems, automatic detection system, evacuation system and environmental monitoring. The fire sprinkler system prevents the fire from burning out of control. Most of the time, the sprinkler system puts out the fire. The automatic detection system is composed of smoke and heat sensors which detects the fire. The evacuation system is composed of horn strobes, strobe units and manual pull stations. These are designed to set off audible and visual warnings. The environmental monitoring system is an alternative type of fire detection system. These systems use the standard fire devices and are wired and connected to environmental sensors.
Always consult the local fire prevention agency if you need advice on what type of fire alarm system you want to install in your home or establishment.
The Alarm System

Summary: A brief timeline of Alarm Systems

The need to protect properties had surface even at prehistoric ages. Cave people make use of alarms such as traps and springs to protect their property. When animal husbandry was learned by man, dogs and mutts are tethered near the valuables to function both as alarm and guard.

In the middle ages, early alarms systems were in forms of large gongs which are struck in case of disaster and emergency. In the outposts, bonfires atop a structure (usually a watch tower) are used to warn settlements of impeding invasions.

The first true alarm system surfaced in 1852 and Edwin Holmes was the inventor. A simplistic device, it was actually a solenoid gong which sounded when the trip wire was disturbed. The alarm system was nothing compared to todays technology but in the industrial revolution era, where great inventions also surfaced like the electrical power generation and early forms of telephones, this invention was warmly received. And the inventions complimented each other too, especially for alarm systems and electrical transmissions which were shortly integrated into the device.

Alarms systems during this century make extensive use of DC alarm circuits and relays. These forms of alarm systems are wound along window sills and around door jambs coupled with conductive lead foil and magnetic or mechanical switches laced with thin resilient wire. Invisible trip wires and wooden dowel alarm screen are also state of the art.

It was another century later when alarm systems took a lengthier stride into advancement, with the advent of IC, circuit wafers, and nanotechnology. Smaller units integrated with microwave and ultrasonic motion sensors with entrance and exit delays are the modern forms of alarm systems. Perimeter sensors and live video feed was already a mainstay to most designs. Bell rings (on doors) are also a new innovation for alarm systems. All these technologies are still being used in abundance even to these days.

Alarms also made a sudden turn to other areas. Like the Bell ring, alarm systems are now used monitor volcanoes and earthquakes. Unconventional alarm systems such as the atmospheric alarm for space vehicles used to supervise the oxygen content and thermal heat regulator in foundries and mines.

Today, alarm systems have advanced even further. The rapid and expanded use of the network and web revolutionized the alarm systems definitely, as alarm systems have gone intelligent. Now, they sort problems themselves, minimize false alarms by identifying triggers, measuring size, weight and environmental factors. Some even detect internal circuitry problems, ensuring these alarm systems are functioning properly.

In an attempt to stay ahead of dangers, alarm system manufacturers have always integrated latest technology into the latest alarm system design. Guaranteed as technology moves still further, alarm systems will also keep pace with the latest tirelessly. Oftentimes, its just a matter of speculation how far will these systems.
Retail Alarm Systems

Summary: With so many retail alarm systems on the market, sometimes choosing the right one is really a daunting prospect

With so many retail alarm systems on the market, sometimes choosing the right one is really a daunting prospect. Questions abound like, do I really need this, does it work, or does it offer the specs I need. With this article, we will carefully dissect the types of retail alarm system and some of the popular choices.

As you may have known, alarm systems include burglar alarms, fire alarms, and personalized alarms. Monitored systems are taken as a whole since it comprises if not all, two of the retail alarm system types.

Burglar alarms have been used as far as the last century. They range from a simple buzzer circuit to complex infrared devices that include sensors and LCD. So what do you need? If you plan on a smaller budget, standard cheap alarms are usually circuit breaking alarms. These alarms are DIY and easy to maintain but not entirely fool proof.

Micromark 2 Zone Easy Fit
Micromark 2 Zone Easy Fit is an absolute DIY burglar alarm kit. Very simple and easy to install with even color coded wirings to determine which is which. It also comes with clear and concise instructions, so theres no need to call an electrician. Doors and windows are protected by magnetic circuit door contacts. Larger areas can be covered with the PIR sensors. www.argos.co.uk sells this retail alarm system only at $39.99.

Those with bigger budget can choose those retail alarm systems that can do more, like this model.

X10 Barking Dog Alarm
Barking dog alarms are slowly becoming a favorite choice since it fools intruders to think of a real dog. X10 emulates the bark of a rottweiler a rather fearsome German dog. This device is also remotely controlled so you can activate it even if you are in bed. The best feature of this model is your ability to add macros. Turning on the lights for added realism is very effective if youre away from home. Intruders will be convinced that the house is occupied.

Retail alarm systems also include fire alarms and the most common are smoke detectors. There are two types of smoke detectors, and the cheapest is the ion detectors.

DS260 Series Ion Smoke Detectors
The DS260 Series are low profile, ionization system type smoke detectors. They incorporate a separate detector & base design that permits the same detector to be used with both 2-wire & 4-wire bases. A voltage output provides the ability to confirm proper calibration after installation. The DS260 Smoke Detectors are $44.95 at www.ezalarms.com