Alarm CPU unit is the brain of the alarm system. Depending on the model, it connects to a number of sensors/zones, processes data from sensors and gives out preprogrammed orders (sets off a siren, communicates with your phone or mobile). If your video surveillance is connected to a security company, it sends the alarm to a centralized alarm report centre. Then, depending on your instructions, a security guard can first notify you of a breach, then send out an intervention unit.

Alarm centre's role is to repel and detect a break-in or a break-in attempt in a protected area. Based on the area's specs and the client's wishes, alarm centre can be installed wired (with sensors) or wireless.

With wireless alarm, cabling is a negligent cost when compared to installing wired sensors. These can also be aesthetically intrusive in objects such as houses, apartments or business premises. Wired sensors require battery change, while wireless ones may be subject to jamming devices with which trespassers can interfere with their function.

Once set up, wired alarms are low maintenance, but the initial cabling can increase installation costs.

Alarm CPU unit has an in-built communicator – device that sends out a telephone call or alarm trigger to the alarm report centre within a security firm. Communicator can be adapted to internet, land line or GSM device (in case there is no land line or a higher level of security and redundancy is needed). In that case communicator uses a SIM card to send an alarm or SMS, but it can also act as an IP communicator and use the Internet to report the alarm. The latter speeds up the process and requires no land or mobile line.

Keyboard connects to the alarm CPU unit and allows for a PIN code to be entered in order to arm/disarm the alarm system. It is also used to program the alarm and is placed close to the main entry door.

Sensors or detectors; depending on the model, they detect any change in the protected area and send the information out to the alarm report centre. Basic type of detectors are motion detectors, vibration detectors, broken glass detectors and contact detectors for doors and windows. Additionaly, one could also install gas, carbon-monoxide or similar sensor, expanding basic usage of the unit. Outside perimeter is protected with outdoor motions detectors and infrared barriers.

Siren is connected to the alarm CPU unit and is set off when alarm is triggered. It has a separate power supply and a stroboscopic flash light.

Alarm is the first line of protection of people and property which makes your environment safer and defers potential trespassers. Newer types of alarms can be connected and parametrized by smart phone via a mobile app. They can also integrate with various other functions, which makes the job of operating the CPU unit exceptionally simple.