I've been thinking about buying a security system for a while now, but I don't know that much about them. How do they work?
A security system starts with a control panel. Usually located in a closet or a basement, the control panel contains the "brains" of the security system, and essentially operates as a central computer. Various sensors connect to the control panel from locations throughout your home. If your security system is armed and the sensors detect a problem, they send signals to the control panel. The control panel automatically dials the central monitoring station, where the proper authorities are notified.

What does the keypad do?
You operate your security system by entering your security code at the keypad. Generally located at entry doors, keypads can arm and disarm with push-button ease, and literally put security at your family's fingertips! Good features to look for include illuminated keys to provide you with greater visibility at nighttime, easy-to-read English displays that spell out your system's status at a glance, and one-touch function keys that provide single-button operation for arming, disarming or emergencies. Most keypads even offer convenient additional user codes to give friends, neighbors or service people access to your home.

What are magnetic contacts?
Magnetic contacts are two-part devices used to safeguard windows and doors. One part of the contact is a switch installed in the window or door jam; the other contains a magnet and is placed in the window or door itself. Any noticeable shift in contact with the switch results in an alarm.

What is a PIR?
A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by "sensing" motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from home or when no one will be passing through the area "covered" by the PIR.

Speaking of sensors, how are the "glassbreak" kind operated?
"Acoustic" glassbreak sensors, usually mounted on ceilings or walls, work by "listening" for the sound of breaking glass in a window. "Shock" glassbreak detectors are mounted on the window and "feel" the shock of breaking glass. This kind of advanced wireless technology can provide shatter and shock protection for your windows, for often intruders are "sensed" and an alarm sounded while they are still outdoors. This is often enough to send a burglar running!

I already have a battery-operated smoke detector, so why would I need one installed as part of my security system? What's the difference?
Since you own a smoke detector, you obviously realize what an important safety measure this device is. That's good. Smoke detectors are highly effective in preventing loss of life and property. However, there are differences between the "stand alone" or battery-operated smoke detector you would buy at your local hardware store and one installed as part of your home security system. "Stand alone" detectors are not connected to other detectors or warning devices. A smoke detector connected to your security system offers more protection because it is monitored by a central station. If fire strikes, the detector sets off an alarm and sends a signal to the control panel. The control panel dials the central station, where the operator notifies the fire department. Only central station monitored smoke detectors provide automatic notification of authorities when you or your family are asleep, not at home or unable to get to the phone.

I've been hearing so much about these "wireless" security devices. Do they really work well, and are they easy to use?
Yes on both counts! Technological breakthroughs have led to the development of wireless electronic security products, and their effectiveness has been proven time and again over the years in millions of installations. Their rock-solid stability and long battery life make them a popular choice among homeowners and dealers alike. They give installers the flexibility they need to overcome obstacles like brick walls, cement floors and cathedral ceilings; and no drilling holes preserves the beauty of your home and results in cleaner, faster installations.
Folks today enjoy the convenience of remote control devices, and the security industry has responded! User-friendly wireless products provide the dual benefits of superior performance and ease of operation. Wireless keypads allow you to activate and de-activate your security system with the touch of a button, and can even be programmed so that a young child can operate it with ease. Homeowners especially love wireless keys! Similar in size to a remote car alarm key, they fit right on your keychain, and the press of a single button lets you control your system, lights and appliances-eliminating the need for codes. This is especially great if you and your family enjoy spending time outdoors. Relax by the pool, garden, barbecue and entertain, or play with your kids in the backyard-enjoy extra mobility without compromising your safety!
Another hot item gaining popularity is the interactive phone module. By adding the phone module to your home security system, you'll have remote control access from any touch-tone or cellular phone-from your office, on the road, or anywhere in the world! Conveniently arm, disarm or check the status of your system, turn your lights on or off-you can even control your thermostat and air conditioner!

I have a security system already. Can Protection Concepts monitor my existing equipment?
Protection Concepts can monitor most brands of alarm systems. Protection Concepts can evaluate your existing system prior to activation. This will allow us to better serve you, as we will be able to evaluate that age, condition, and compatibility of your existing equipment. This will also allow you to discuss other options for upgrading and customizing your alarm system.

What is two-way voice monitoring, and what does it mean for the safety of my family?
Two-way voice enables our operator to communicate directly with the home in the event of an alarm. If you or someone in your family has a medical or other type of emergency or accident, it allows you to communicate with our monitoring station without having to use a handset. It also allows our experienced operators to offer advice and assistance. If there is a burglary, it allows our operator to challenge the burglar and inform the burglar that the police have been dispatched.

Can I activate the alarm system when I am home alone?
Your alarm system has a function whereby your motion sensors are deactivated, while the perimeter sensors are still functioning. This allows you to walk around your house safe in the knowledge that you home is protected while you are at home.

How long is the monitoring agreement?
Your monitoring agreement is for 1 year. Other alarm companies will ask you to sign a 3, 4 or even 5 year contract. Our customers have that option as well, if they wish to guarantee their monitoring rate for that long. They are not obliged to, however.

What happens if I move?
If you move within the region (Atlanta metro area), we can relocate your alarm system to your new home, or put a new one in your new home. If you move outside of the region, you simply make the alarm agreement a part of the sale of your home, and the incoming homeowners can take advantage of the security hardware that is protecting their new home.
Do I own the equipment?
Unlike many of our major competitors, with Protection Concepts you own your equipment.

Why should I trust Protection Concepts with my security?
Protection Concepts provides you with uncompromising safety and professionalism, while keeping our prices reasonable and our service second to none. We monitor your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and nobody else can give you the flexibility in security options to ensure that your system is customized to suit your individual tastes and requirements.

I have pets. Can I still have a Protection Concepts system installed in my home?
Absolutely, yes. We have a number of system configurations that can be adapted for pets of all sizes and quantities. Many of our customers have pets that are like family, and the security alarm system is designed with them in mind, as well.

What about false alarms?
While there is always a risk of a false alarm, Protection Concepts is dedicated to ensuring that false alarms are as rare as possible. To that end, Protection Concepts installs equipment that has been engineered to the highest specifications, and incorporates the latest developments in false alarm reduction hardware and software. Properly installation and proper training are the two other factors that keep false alarms to a minimum.

What happens when my alarm goes off?
When your alarm system goes off, a signal is sent to our monitoring facility over your telephone lines. One of our trained operators will immediately contact your home to ascertain if your home is safe. If noone is available on site to provide an abort code, the operator will contact the appropriate authorities.

I already have smoke detectors in my house. Why would I want to add additional ones to my alarm system?
The smoke alarms that are typically installed by construction companies are not of the same quality as the smoke sensors that we utilize. Plus, our smoke detectors are monitored 24 hours a day, whether your system is on or not, and whether you are home or not.

Who will install my system, and how long will it take?
Protection Concepts employs only highly trained, skilled technicians. You installation will usually take approximately 3 hours, but can vary from 2 hours to 8 hours for a more comprehensive system.

Will my insurance company give me a discount on my homeowners policy?
Almost all insurance companies recognize the value of a monitored security alarm system by giving customers a discount on their homeowners insurance policy. Typically, discounts range between 5 and 20%.

Can I have a monitored security system without a land line?
Yes! You can sen signals through your cable company phone line or through a dedicated cell unit. You can also use an internet phone system such as, Vonage. Although this is not the recommended method.