It is best to contact an alarm provider, like Orangeburg Security Systems, and have one of their representatives come to your property to do a security survey and speak to you personally. Avoid getting prices over the phone, as home and business structures are different, as well as individual concerns and needs.

Most alarm systems protect doors and widows using switches or motion detectors connected to a central processing unit or “control panel”, as they are called in the industry. The control panel is normally hidden in a closet in the home or business. In a wireless system the door and window contacts, and motion sensing devices are connected to the main control panel using radio signals similar to a TV remote control. Using wireless devices eliminates the need to drill holes and pull wires through walls in areas where protection is located.

Both wired and wireless components are fine although each has its pros and cons. Wireless devices can be installed anywhere they will work best. Sometimes wired alarms, motion detectors, glass breakage detectors, and other protection must be installed in areas where wires can be run, but effectiveness may be limited. However all wireless devices use batteries which will need to be replaced from time to time. Our representative would be able to tell you which is best for you and your property during his "on location" assessment of your security needs.

All alarm companies in South Carolina must have an alarm license. Ask if they do and get their license number to be sure. You can contact the South Carolina Alarm Association to verify. Also, although not required, ask if they are members of the alarm association which normally suggests a higher level of professionalism.

A motion detector is a device that is normally mounted on a wall or ceiling that senses a presence in a protected area and can initiate an alarm when the system is armed. They are normally used to protect windows and other means of entry into a protected area other than doors. The most common way they work is through the detection of infrared energy, (body heat). Newer sensors can differentiate between small animals and humans.

A glass breakage detector is a device that "listens" for the sound of glass breaking in protected areas. Glass break detectors are very effective and cost efficient in rooms with multiple windows, French doors, sliding glass doors, etc. They are normally about the size of a pack of cigarettes and are mounted on walls or ceilings.

Door and window contacts are switches that are installed on doors or windows that, when opened with the system armed, will set off sirens and/or call to summon authorities.

As stated above, all homes are different as well as the people that live in them. While one home owner might be mostly concerned about their home and belongings when they are out, another person may want maximum protection while they are at home.