Access Control System – A security solution that electronically restricts and authorizes entry to specific locations, eliminating the need for manual verification. Typically controls entry to doorways through a centralized control “brain”.

Alarm Battery – A backup power source ensuring your alarm system remains operational during power outages or phone line disruptions.

Alarm Manufacturer – Companies specializing in creating security alarm systems, such as Honeywell, Bosch, GE, and Tyco.

Alarm Monitoring – The ongoing service where your security system communicates emergency alerts to a central station, prompting quick dispatch of emergency services.

Alarm Signal – An alert transmitted or audibly sounded when an alarm system detects an activation, prompting immediate response from a monitoring center.

Alarm.com – A platform offering cloud-based remote control, home automation, and security system monitoring accessible via web-enabled devices.

Alarmnet – Resideo’s network division providing secure monitoring services specifically for Honeywell security products, including Total Connect 2.0.

Annunciator Panel – A secondary display panel showing the status and location of alarms or system troubles, typically installed near building entrances for easy access by first responders.

Away Mode – An alarm setting used when leaving the premises, activating all security sensors and surveillance cameras for comprehensive coverage.

Bullet Camera – Cylindrical security cameras prominently installed as a deterrent, suitable for outdoor monitoring.

Carbon Monoxide Detector – Safety devices detecting harmful levels of carbon monoxide, alerting occupants to potential poisoning risks early.

Do it Yourself (DIY) System – Self-installed security systems allowing personal customization and control of system features.

Dome Camera – Rounded security cameras typically ceiling-mounted indoors, providing discreet and comprehensive coverage.

Door Contact – A security sensor activated by the separation of its two components—a magnet and sensor—when doors open.

Door Strike – An electrically operated locking mechanism releasing doors remotely when activated, then re-engaging automatically when the door closes.

False Alarm – An unintended security alert triggered by non-threatening factors such as pets or environmental conditions.

Fire Alarm – Devices emitting loud signals upon detecting fire conditions through smoke, heat, or manual activation.

Fire Alarm Control Panel – Centralized system managing and responding to signals from various fire detection devices, coordinating alerts and emergency responses.

Flood Sensor – Devices detecting water presence via conductive sensors, alerting occupants to flooding risks.

Gas Detector – Sensors designed to identify harmful gases, triggering immediate alerts to safeguard occupants.

Glass Break Detector – Security sensors recognizing the sound frequency of breaking glass to promptly activate alarms.

Heat Detector – Devices responding to excessive heat indicative of fire, activating alarms and potentially triggering suppression systems.

Horn Strobe – Alarms combining loud audible alerts and bright flashing lights to effectively notify occupants of an emergency.

Infrared (IR) Camera – Cameras capturing thermal images by detecting infrared radiation, enhancing visibility in dark or low-light conditions.

Interactive Services – Remote access to security systems via digital devices, allowing users to control alarms, cameras, and home automation remotely.

Keypad – Small numeric interface devices used to input security codes for authorized access control.

Low Battery Trouble – System alerts indicating the need to replace or service alarm system backup batteries.

Low-Temperature Detector – Sensors alerting users when indoor temperatures drop significantly, helping prevent pipe freezing and damage.

Mag-lock – Electromagnetic locks securing doors via a magnetic field that disengages when power is removed.

Monitoring Center – Professional security stations receiving and responding to alerts from monitored alarm systems.

Motion Detector – Devices identifying movement through various detection technologies including infrared, microwave, and ultrasonic waves.

Notification Appliance – Devices such as horns, bells, strobes, and speakers used in alarm systems to audibly or visually alert building occupants during emergencies.

NVR – Network Video Recorders that digitally capture, process, and store video surveillance data for remote viewing.

Panel – Central hub of security and fire alarm systems managing connected sensors, alerts, and monitoring station communications.

Panic Alarm – Devices manually activated to instantly alert monitoring centers of personal emergencies requiring immediate assistance.

Permit – Official authorization required by local authorities for the installation of alarm systems, particularly fire alarms.

PTZ Camera – Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras remotely controlled for versatile area surveillance, providing dynamic visual coverage.

Pull Station – Manually operated alarms typically wall-mounted, allowing immediate activation of fire alerts.

Security Panel – Centralized device managing security system operations, sensors, and communications with monitoring services.

Smoke Detector – Sensors alerting occupants by detecting smoke particles from fires, integral to fire safety.

Starlink – Napco’s LTE cellular communication systems for upgrading outdated alarm transmission methods across various manufacturers.

Stay Mode – Security setting partially activating systems for safety while occupants remain indoors, disabling internal motion sensors.

Tamper Switch – A security device installed on alarm panels, detectors, or system components to detect unauthorized opening or tampering, triggering alerts to the monitoring center.

Trouble Signal – Indicators on alarm panels signaling technical or operational issues requiring attention.

Voice Evacuation System – An integrated fire alarm system utilizing pre-recorded or live voice instructions to guide occupants safely out of buildings during emergencies.

Water Detector – Sensors alerting occupants promptly upon detecting water leakage or flooding risks.

Window Contact – Security devices activated when windows open, separating the sensor from its magnet component.

Wired Security System – Security setups connected and powered through physical wiring, ensuring reliable device communication.

Wireless Security System – Systems powered by batteries, transmitting alerts and sensor data through wireless networks without extensive wiring.

Wiring – Physical cables interconnecting and powering components in wired alarm and security systems, facilitating communication and operation.

Zone – A designated area or group of sensors within an alarm system, used to precisely identify the location or type of alarm or event within a facility.