Wired or Wireless Alarms

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Nov 20, 2014/ 0 Comments / in security alarms

There is a lot of debate on which type of security alarms are most effective: Wireless or hard-wired? During the early stages of wireless technology there were lots of kinks to consider however, the past two to three years have truly ushered in a new age of wireless technology and it includes wireless alarms. The advancement in such technologies have dramatically reduced the possibility of false alarms which were once commonplace in the wireless alarm arena. Today, wireless installations are super reliable and able to  detect an intrusion attempt, fire, flood or any other type of emergency, and effectively alert the client via mobile, tablet or email within a relatively short period of time.

Nevertheless, both wireless and hard-wired alarm systems have advantages and disadvantages. Hard-wired systems tend to be more reliable and this is particularly true in regions with a poor internet connection (or countries that have an undeveloped WIFI/Internet infrastructure). It’s important to point out that although one may opt for a wireless system, certain alarm security features may specifically call for a hard-wired connection. These  features include network sensors and alarm control panels which typically depend on Radio Frequency Technology and communicate externally using a cellular ‘uplink’.

Wireless systems, (as well as the numerous accessories available for wireless alarm systems), are often more costly than their hard-wired counterparts. The cost, however, can be offset by the time saving factor. Installing a  wireless system usually takes less time than installing a hard-wired system and when it comes to long-term cost effectiveness, the biggest expense for a wireless system will be the cost of batteries every few years. Hard-wired systems are usually maintenance free however, problems may arise in case of a power outage.

The conclusion is that wireless systems tend to offer home owners and business owners alike the most flexibility and reliability these days. It is by far easier (and more reliable) to install a wireless or hybrid alarm system than to install a strictly hard-wired system.

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