Home Security Terms Glossary
A
1080p (HP): A high-definition video resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, providing clear and detailed images for surveillance cameras.
24 Hour Security: Continuous security measures operating around the clock to ensure constant protection and monitoring.
24 Hour Zone: A security zone that remains active and monitored at all times, regardless of whether the alarm system is armed or disarmed.
24-Hour Audible Alarm: An alarm system that emits a sound alert any time it's triggered, day or night.
24-Hour Silent Alarm: An alarm that sends a notification to a monitoring station without producing an audible alert on the premises.
4K (HD): Ultra-high-definition video resolution of approximately 3840x2160 pixels, offering exceptional image clarity for surveillance footage.
AC Power: Alternating current electricity supplied from the main power source to operate devices like security systems.
Access Code: A numeric or alphanumeric code used to gain authorized access to a secured area or to arm/disarm a security system.
Access Control: Security measures that regulate who can enter or exit specific areas, often using keycards, biometric readers, or access codes.
Alarm: A device or system that alerts users to a security breach, fire, or other emergencies through audible or visual signals.
Alarm Battery: A backup power source that keeps the security system operational during a power outage.
Alarm Communication Path: The method by which a security system communicates with a monitoring center, such as via telephone lines, cellular networks, or internet connections.
Alarm Device: Any component of a security system designed to detect and signal an alarm condition, like sensors or detectors.
Alarm Event: An occurrence that triggers the security system to activate an alarm, such as a door opening or motion detected.
Alarm Monitoring: A service where signals from a security system are received and processed by a monitoring center, which can dispatch emergency services if needed.
Alarm Notification Device: Equipment like sirens or strobe lights that alert occupants and bystanders of an alarm condition.
Alarm Screens: Window screens equipped with sensors that trigger an alarm if cut or removed.
Alarm Signal: The transmission sent from a security system to the monitoring center indicating an alarm event.
Alarm System: An integrated network of devices designed to detect and alert about unauthorized entry, fire, or other emergencies.
Alarm Transmitter: A device that sends alarm signals from sensors to the control panel wirelessly.
Alarm Verification: The process of confirming whether an alarm is genuine or false before taking further action.
Alpha Display: A keypad or interface that shows system status messages in text format rather than just lights or codes.
Ambient Temperature: The surrounding air temperature in a specific area where security equipment is installed.
Apprehension: The successful capture or arrest of an intruder due to the activation of a security system.
Arm: The action of activating a security system so it can detect and alert to security breaches.
Arming: The process of turning on the security system's protective features.
Arming Sequence: The steps or procedures followed to arm a security system, which may include entering a code or pressing specific buttons.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technology that enables systems to learn and adapt, used in security for advanced analytics and threat detection.
Audio Detector: A device that detects specific sounds, like breaking glass, to trigger an alarm.
Audio Verification: Using audio monitoring to confirm an alarm event by listening to sounds at the protected premises.
Audible Alarm: An alarm that emits sound to alert occupants and deter intruders.
Automated Security Systems: Security setups that use automation to perform tasks like arming/disarming or sending alerts without manual intervention.
Automation: The integration of devices and systems to operate automatically or be controlled remotely, enhancing security and convenience.
Authority Level: A set of permissions assigned to a user code, determining what functions they can perform on the security system.
Auxiliary Panic Keys: Dedicated buttons on a keypad or remote that, when pressed, immediately trigger a panic alarm.
B
Babysitter Code: A temporary access code given to someone like a babysitter, allowing limited control over the security system.
Back-Up Alarm Battery: A secondary power source that ensures the security system remains operational during power outages.
Bandwidth: The capacity of a communication channel to transmit data, important for video surveillance quality.
Battery Back-Up: A system that provides power to devices when the main power source fails.
Biometric Code: Security access based on unique biological characteristics, such as fingerprints or retinal patterns.
Biometrics: Technologies used to identify individuals based on physical traits for enhanced security access control.
Break-in: Unauthorized entry into a property, often involving force, with intent to commit theft or damage.
Burglar Alarm: A system designed to detect unauthorized entry and alert occupants or authorities.
Burglar Alarm System: An integrated network of sensors and alarms specifically aimed at detecting intrusions.
Burglary: The act of illegally entering a building with intent to commit a crime, typically theft.
Business Security: Security measures and systems tailored to protect commercial properties and assets.
Bypass: Temporarily deactivating a specific zone or sensor in a security system.
C
Call Verification: A procedure where the monitoring center contacts the premises or owner to confirm an alarm before dispatching authorities.
Carbon Monoxide Detector (CO): A device that detects dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas and alerts occupants.
Category 5 (Cat-5) Wire: A type of network cabling used for transmitting data, including in some security systems.
Cell Guard: A device that allows a security system to communicate over cellular networks if the primary line fails.
Cellular Alarm Monitoring: Monitoring service that uses cellular networks to receive alarm signals from the security system.
Cellular Connectivity: The ability of devices to communicate over cellular networks, providing wireless communication paths.
Cellular-Path Communicator: A device enabling a security system to send signals via cellular networks to the monitoring center.
Central Monitoring Station: A facility where trained personnel monitor incoming signals from security systems and coordinate responses.
Central Station: Another term for a central monitoring station.
Central Station Operator: A professional who monitors alarm signals and takes appropriate action during an alarm event.
CCTV (Closed Circuit Television): A video surveillance system where cameras transmit footage to specific monitors or recording devices.
CCTV Camera (Closed Circuit Television Camera): A camera used within a CCTV system for surveillance purposes.
CCTV System: A network of cameras and monitors used for video surveillance in a specific area.
Chime: A feature that emits a sound when a door or window is opened, alerting occupants without triggering an alarm.
Closing: The action of arming the security system when leaving the premises.
Cloud: Remote servers used to store data, such as surveillance footage, accessible over the internet.
Contacts: Sensors placed on doors or windows that detect opening or closing.
Control Panel: The central unit of a security system that communicates with all devices and manages system functions.
Control Panel or CPU: The main processor that controls and processes signals within the security system.
Controlled Zones: Areas within a security system that can be armed or disarmed separately.
Covert Camera: A hidden or disguised camera used for discreet surveillance.
D
Deadbolt: A type of lock providing additional security for doors, often recommended as part of a home security system.
Detector: A device designed to sense specific conditions like motion, smoke, or heat and trigger an alarm.
Digital Communication (Digi-Com): The transmission of alarm signals using digital formats over communication channels.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL): A type of internet connection that can be used for security system communication.
Digital Video Monitor: A display device used to view live or recorded footage from security cameras.
Disarm: The action of deactivating a security system to prevent it from triggering alarms.
Dis-Arm: Alternative spelling for disarm.
DIY Security: Security systems designed for self-installation without professional assistance.
DIY Security System: A security setup that homeowners can install and configure themselves.
Door Contacts and Window Contacts: Sensors that detect when doors or windows are opened or closed.
Door Sensor: A device that triggers an alert when a door is opened unexpectedly.
Door/Window Contact: A magnetic sensor that detects the opening of doors or windows.
Dual Detector: A sensor utilizing two technologies (e.g., infrared and microwave) to reduce false alarms.
Dual Interface Poll (DIP): Switches used to configure settings on security devices or control panels.
Dual Path (Cellular/IP) Digital Communicator: A device that sends alarm signals over both cellular and internet connections for redundancy.
Dual Path (Cellular/IP) Monitoring: Alarm monitoring that uses both cellular and internet pathways to ensure reliable communication.
Dual Technology (DTEC): Sensors that combine two detection methods to improve accuracy and minimize false alarms.
Duress Code: A special code entered into a security system to silently signal distress to the monitoring center.
E
DVR: Digital Video Recorder, a device that records surveillance footage digitally for playback and storage.
Electronic Surveillance: Monitoring activities using electronic devices like cameras and sensors.
Emergency: An unexpected situation requiring immediate action, such as a fire or break-in.
Emergency Lighting: Lighting systems that activate during power outages or emergencies to illuminate escape routes.
Emergency Response: The dispatch of police, fire, or medical services in reaction to an alarm signal.
Entry Delay: The preset time allowed to disarm the system after entering a secured area to prevent an alarm.
Entry/Exit Delay: The time periods set for arming or disarming the system when entering or leaving the premises.
Entry/Exit Zone: Zones like main doors where delays are set to allow authorized entry and exit without triggering an alarm.
Environmental Monitoring: Using sensors to detect environmental hazards like smoke, carbon monoxide, or flooding.
Ethernet: A wired networking technology used to connect devices, including security systems, to a network.
Exit Delay: The time allotted to exit the premises after arming the security system before it becomes active.
Expander: A module that increases the capacity or functionality of a security system, such as adding more zones.
External Sirens: Sirens installed outside the premises to alert neighbors and deter intruders when an alarm is triggered.
F
False Alarm: An alarm signal triggered without an actual emergency, often due to user error or equipment issues.
False Alarm Password: A secret word or code used to confirm to the monitoring center that an alarm was accidental.
Fire Alarm: A system designed to detect and alert occupants to the presence of fire through smoke or heat detection.
Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP): The central hub of a fire alarm system that monitors inputs and controls outputs.
Fire Alarm System: An integrated network of devices that detect and warn of fire through audible and visual alerts.
Fire Alarm Verification: A feature that reduces false alarms by requiring confirmation of fire conditions before signaling.
Fire Annunciator: A panel that displays fire alarm information, typically located near building entrances for firefighters.
Floor Mats: Pressure-sensitive mats that trigger an alarm when stepped on, used in security applications.
Flood Detector: A sensor that detects the presence of water, indicating leaks or flooding.
Flood Sensor: Another term for a flood detector.
Foil: Metallic tape applied to windows to detect glass breakage or tampering.
Force Arm: Arming the security system while bypassing faulted zones or sensors.
Force Arming: The act of arming the system despite certain zones being in a trouble condition.
Freeze Sensor: A device that alerts when temperatures drop below a preset level, preventing damage from freezing conditions.
Fully Supervised Loop (FSL): A wiring configuration that monitors the integrity of connections between devices and the control panel.
G
General Packet Radio Service (GPRS): A cellular data service used for transmitting alarm signals over mobile networks.
Glass Break Sensor: A device that detects the sound or vibration of breaking glass to trigger an alarm.
Glassbreak Detector (GBD): Another term for a glass break sensor.
Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM): A standard for mobile networks used for cellular communication in security systems.
H
Hard-wired: Security systems where components are connected via physical wires.
Hardwired: Another term for hard-wired.
Hardwired Security System: A security system with sensors and devices connected by cables.
HD: High Definition, referring to video quality with higher resolution and clarity.
Heat Detector: A device that senses temperature increases indicative of a fire.
Heat Detector, Fixed: A heat detector that triggers an alarm when a specific temperature is reached.
Heat Detector, Rate of Rise: A detector that triggers an alarm when the temperature rises rapidly over a short period.
Heat Detectors: Plural of heat detector.
Heat Sensor: Another term for a heat detector.
Hidden Camera: A surveillance camera concealed within objects or fixtures to monitor without detection.
Holdup Switch: A manually activated device used in commercial settings to silently signal a robbery or emergency.
Home Alarm: A security system installed in a residence to detect intrusions or other emergencies.
Home Automation: The use of technology to control home systems like lighting, climate, and security remotely or automatically.
Home Burglary: Unauthorized entry into a home with intent to commit theft or another crime.
Home Security: Measures and systems implemented to protect a home from intruders and other threats.
H (Continued)
Hub: A central device that connects multiple components in a network, allowing communication and coordination between different security devices within a home security system.
I
Identity Theft: The illegal use of someone else's personal information, such as name, social security number, or financial data, often for fraudulent purposes like opening credit accounts or making unauthorized purchases.
Infrared: A technology that uses infrared light waves to detect heat signatures, commonly utilized in motion sensors to identify movement based on body heat.
Installer Code: A special access code used by technicians to program and configure the security system during installation or maintenance, often separate from user access codes.
Integrated Service Digital Network (ISDN): An international communication standard for transmitting voice, video, and data over traditional telephone lines, sometimes used as a communication path in older security systems.
Intercom: A two-way communication system installed within a building, allowing occupants to speak to visitors at entry points before granting access, enhancing security by verifying identities.
Interconnected: Refers to devices or systems linked together to operate cohesively, such as interconnected smoke detectors that all sound an alarm when one is triggered.
Interior Follower: A security system setting where interior motion detectors are automatically bypassed if an entry door is opened and the system is disarmed within a set time, allowing authorized entry without triggering an alarm.
Interior Protection: Security measures focused on monitoring and securing the inside areas of a property, typically using motion detectors and interior sensors to detect unauthorized movement when the system is armed.
Interior Zones: Specific areas within the interior of a property that are monitored by the security system, which can often be armed or disarmed independently based on occupancy.
Intruder: An unauthorized person who enters a property without permission, potentially intending to commit theft or vandalism.
Intruder Alarm: A system designed to detect unauthorized entry into a building and alert occupants or authorities through audible alarms or notifications.
Intrusion: The act of entering a property without permission, triggering security sensors and potentially leading to an alarm event.
Ionization Detection: A method used in some smoke detectors that senses small particles from fast-flaming fires using a small amount of radioactive material to ionize air within a sensing chamber.
J
(No terms under "J" in the provided list.)
K
Key Fob: A small, portable remote control device, often attached to a keychain, used to arm or disarm a security system with the press of a button.
Key Holder: An individual designated to have keys and access codes to a secured property, responsible for responding to alarms or providing access to emergency services when necessary.
Keypad: An interface device with buttons or a touch screen used to input commands, arm or disarm the system, and sometimes display system status messages.
L
Larceny: The unlawful taking of someone's personal property without consent, typically involving theft without breaking and entering.
LED (Light Emitting Diode): A semiconductor light source used in various security devices for indicators, displays, and illumination due to its energy efficiency and longevity.
LED Keypad: A security system keypad that uses LEDs to display system status, alerts, and other information through lights rather than text.
Life Safety: Components of a security system focused on protecting the well-being of occupants, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency alarms.
Light Activation: The automatic turning on of lights triggered by sensors detecting motion or specific conditions, enhancing security and energy efficiency.
Light Emitting Diode (LED): See LED above.
M
Maintenance: Regular inspection and servicing of security equipment to ensure optimal performance, prevent malfunctions, and extend the lifespan of devices.
Magnetic Reed Switch: A type of sensor used in door and window contacts that triggers an alarm when the magnetic field is disrupted by opening.
Master Code: The primary user code for a security system, granting full access to all system functions, including adding or deleting other user codes.
Medical Alarm: A device or system that allows individuals, particularly the elderly or those with health issues, to call for medical assistance quickly, often via a wearable pendant or bracelet.
Medical Alarm System: An integrated system that monitors for medical emergencies and can automatically notify medical services when activated.
Medical Alert: A feature or device that signals the need for immediate medical attention, providing peace of mind for users and their families.
Microwave: In security contexts, refers to motion detection technology that uses microwave radar pulses to detect movement within a protected area.
Microwave Detector: A motion sensor that emits microwave signals and detects changes in the reflected waves caused by moving objects, useful in environments where infrared sensors may be less effective.
Mobile Home Security: Security solutions specifically designed to address the unique vulnerabilities of mobile homes, including specialized sensors and mounting hardware.
Monitoring: The continuous surveillance of a security system by a professional monitoring center, which responds to alarms by notifying homeowners and dispatching emergency services if necessary.
Motion Activated Cameras: Surveillance cameras that begin recording or transmitting video when motion is detected, conserving storage space and making it easier to review relevant footage.
Motion Detector: A device that senses movement within a certain area and triggers an alarm or other response, commonly using infrared, microwave, or dual-technology sensors.
Motion Sensor Light: An outdoor or indoor light fixture equipped with a motion sensor, which automatically illuminates when movement is detected to deter intruders and improve visibility.
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS): A messaging service that allows sending multimedia content, such as images and videos, over mobile networks; can be used to send security alerts with visual information.
N
National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA): A trade association representing the electronic life safety, security, and integrated systems industry, now known as the Electronic Security Association (ESA).
Night Vision: Technology that enables cameras to capture images in low-light or complete darkness using infrared illumination, crucial for 24-hour surveillance.
NSI: National Security Inspectorate, a UK-based certification body that audits and approves companies providing security and fire safety services.
NSI Approved: Indicates that a security company has met the rigorous standards set by the NSI, ensuring quality and reliability in their services.
O
Opening/Closing Reports: Records or notifications generated when a security system is armed (closed) or disarmed (opened), often used for tracking access times and user activity.
Optical Detection (Photoelectric): A method used in smoke detectors where a light beam is disrupted by smoke particles, triggering the alarm, especially effective for detecting smoldering fires.
Outdoor Lighting: Lighting fixtures installed around the exterior of a property to enhance visibility, deter intruders, and improve safety, often integrated with motion sensors or timers.
Outdoor Surveillance: The use of security cameras and sensors to monitor the exterior areas of a property, including yards, entrances, and perimeters.
P
Panic Alarm: An immediate alert triggered manually by an individual during an emergency, signaling for help without raising suspicion or alerting an intruder.
Panic Button: A device or button on a security panel or remote that, when pressed, activates the panic alarm feature.
Panic Room: A secure, reinforced space within a home designed to provide safety for occupants during emergencies such as home invasions or natural disasters.
Partition: A division within a security system that allows different areas or zones to be armed and disarmed independently, providing customized security for multi-zone properties.
Passive Infra-Red Motion Detector (PIR): A sensor that detects motion by measuring changes in infrared radiation, commonly used in residential security systems for reliable indoor motion detection.
Perimeter Protection: Security measures focused on securing the outer boundaries of a property, such as fences, gates, door/window sensors, and outdoor motion detectors.
Perimeter Zone: Zones designated to monitor the outer entry points of a property, triggering alarms upon unauthorized access.
Personal Alarm: A small, portable device that emits a loud siren when activated, intended to draw attention and deter attackers in personal safety situations.
Personal Property: Tangible items owned by an individual, including electronics, jewelry, and vehicles, which can be protected through various security measures.
Personal Safety: The state of being safe from physical harm or danger, often enhanced through security systems, self-defense training, and awareness.
Pet Immunity: A feature in motion detectors that allows pets to move freely within a monitored area without triggering false alarms, typically by ignoring objects under a certain weight.
Phone Line Monitoring: A method where the security system communicates with the monitoring center via a traditional telephone line (POTS), increasingly supplemented or replaced by cellular and internet pathways.
Photoelectric: Pertaining to devices that operate based on the photoelectric effect, such as certain types of smoke detectors that detect smoke particles disrupting a light beam.
PIR: Abbreviation for Passive Infra-Red, relating to motion detectors that use infrared technology to detect movement.
Point of Protection: An individual sensor or alarm device covering a specific entry point or area within a security system.
Power Supply: The component that provides electrical power to the security system, often including a transformer and backup battery to ensure continuous operation.
Preventative Maintenance: Routine checks and servicing of security equipment to prevent potential failures and ensure systems operate effectively when needed.
Programming: The process of setting up and customizing a security system's functions, zones, user codes, and communication settings according to the user's needs.
Proximity Card: An access control card that grants entry when brought near a reader, using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.
Proximity Reader: A device that reads proximity cards or tokens to allow or deny access to secured areas without physical contact.
Pull Station: A manual fire alarm activation device, typically found in commercial buildings, that triggers the fire alarm system when the lever is pulled.
R
Radio Frequency (RF) Wireless Signal: A method of wireless communication using radio waves to transmit data between security system components like sensors and control panels without the need for physical wiring.
Rate-of-Rise (ROR) Heat Detectors: Heat sensors that trigger an alarm when they detect a rapid increase in temperature over a short period, indicating a potential fire.
Recessed Door/Window Contact: A type of sensor installed flush within a door or window frame, making it less visible and more aesthetically pleasing, used to detect opening and closing.
Remote Access: The ability to monitor and control a security system from a distant location using devices like smartphones, tablets, or computers, enhancing convenience and real-time response.
Remote Home Security: Security solutions that allow homeowners to manage and receive alerts from their security system while away from home via internet or cellular connections.
Remote Keypad: A portable device or app that functions like a traditional security keypad, enabling users to arm, disarm, or control the system remotely.
Remote Programming: The capability for technicians to configure or update a security system's settings from a remote location without needing to be physically present at the premises.
Repeater: A device that amplifies and extends the range of wireless signals in a security system, ensuring reliable communication between components over larger areas.
RF: Abbreviation for Radio Frequency, relating to wireless communication methods used in security systems for transmitting signals.
Router: A networking device that directs data traffic between devices and networks, often facilitating internet connectivity for security systems that use IP communication.
Runner Service: A specialized service where personnel are dispatched to a location to investigate an alarm event, typically used in commercial security contracts.
S
Security Camera: A video recording device used to monitor and capture footage of specific areas, serving as a deterrent and providing evidence in case of incidents.
Security Company: A business that provides security services, including system installation, monitoring, maintenance, and consultation to protect properties and assets.
Security Monitoring: The continuous oversight of a security system by a professional monitoring center, which responds to alerts by contacting property owners or emergency services.
Security Risk Assessment: An evaluation process to identify potential security vulnerabilities within a property and recommend measures to mitigate risks.
Security System: An integrated network of devices, sensors, and controls designed to detect and respond to unauthorized entry, environmental hazards, and other security threats.
Sensor: A device that detects specific changes in its environment, such as motion, heat, or opening of doors/windows, and sends signals to the security system.
Shock Detector: A sensor that detects vibrations or impacts caused by attempts to break through doors, windows, or walls, triggering an alarm upon detection.
Short Message Service (SMS): A text messaging service used to send short text notifications, which can be utilized by security systems to alert users of events via mobile phones.
Silent Alarm: An alarm that notifies the monitoring center or authorities without alerting the intruder through audible sirens, increasing the chances of apprehension.
Siren: A loud audible device that sounds when an alarm is triggered, designed to alert occupants and deter intruders.
Smart Device: An electronic device connected to other devices or networks, capable of operating interactively and autonomously, such as smartphones or smart home appliances.
Smart Doorbell: A doorbell equipped with features like video streaming, motion detection, and two-way communication, allowing homeowners to see and speak with visitors remotely.
Smart Home: A residence equipped with interconnected devices and systems that can be controlled remotely or operate autonomously to enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency.
Smart Security: Advanced security solutions that integrate with smart home technology, allowing for automated responses and remote management via smart devices.
Smoke Detector: A device that senses the presence of smoke, indicating a potential fire, and triggers an alarm to alert occupants and, if monitored, the fire department.
Spy Camera: A covert camera designed to record video or take photographs without being easily noticed, used for discreet surveillance.
Stand by: Refers to a security system's backup mode where it continues to operate using battery power during a main power outage.
Stay Mode: An arming mode that secures the perimeter of a property while allowing movement within the interior, ideal when occupants are inside but want protection from external intrusion.
Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Cards: A removable smart card used in cellular devices, including some security system communicators, to authenticate and store network information.
Supervisory Signal: A notification sent by the security system to indicate a potential issue with system components, such as low battery or loss of communication, requiring attention.
Surveillance System: An arrangement of cameras and recording equipment used to monitor and record activities within or around a property.
Swinger Shunt: A feature that disables a zone after a certain number of alarm activations within a set period to prevent repeated false alarms from faulty sensors.
System Status Keypad: A keypad that provides detailed information about the security system's current status, including faults, alarms, and zones in use.
T
Takeover: The process of reprogramming an existing security system to connect it to a new monitoring service provider without replacing the entire system.
Talking Keypad: A keypad that provides audible voice prompts and system status messages to assist users in operating the security system.
Tamper: The act of interfering with or attempting to disable a security device; many components have tamper detection features that trigger an alarm if tampered with.
Temperature Sensor: A device that monitors temperature levels and alerts when temperatures rise or fall beyond preset thresholds, useful for detecting HVAC failures or fires.
Tempered Glass: Glass treated with heat or chemicals to enhance its strength and, when broken, shatters into small, less harmful pieces; sometimes used in security windows.
Theft Protection: Measures and systems designed to prevent unauthorized removal of property, including alarms, locks, and surveillance cameras.
Transformer: An electrical device that reduces high-voltage electricity to lower voltage suitable for powering security system components.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): A fundamental protocol in internet networking that ensures reliable transmission of data between devices, used in IP-based security systems.
Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP): A suite of communication protocols used for interconnecting network devices on the internet, facilitating data exchange in security systems.
Trouble Day/Alarm Night: A zone setting where the system reports a trouble signal during the day (e.g., door left open) and triggers an alarm at night when the system is armed.
Trouble Signal: An alert indicating a problem within the security system, such as a malfunctioning sensor, low battery, or communication failure, requiring attention.
Two-Way Keypad: A keypad that allows for two-way communication between the user and the monitoring center, often used for verification during alarm events.
U
UL: Underwriters Laboratories, an independent organization that tests and certifies products for safety and compliance with specific standards.
UL Listed Central Station: A monitoring center that has been certified by UL to meet stringent standards for reliability and quality in monitoring security systems.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL): See UL above.
User Code: A personalized code assigned to an individual for arming and disarming the security system, which can often be customized or restricted in access level.
User Codes: Plural of user code; multiple codes assigned to different users to track system access and maintain security control.
V
Video Doorbell: A doorbell equipped with a built-in camera and communication system, allowing occupants to see and speak with visitors via a connected device.
Video Surveillance: The use of video cameras to transmit and record images for monitoring activities in real-time or for later review.
Video Verification: A process where video footage is used to confirm the validity of an alarm event, helping reduce false alarms and improve emergency response.
W
Walk Test: A procedure for testing motion detectors and other sensors by walking through the protected area to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Water Detector: A sensor designed to detect the presence of water or moisture, alerting to leaks or flooding to prevent damage.
Water Sensor: Another term for water detector.
Wide Area Network (WAN): A telecommunications network that extends over a large geographical area, used to connect security systems in different locations.
Window Lock: A locking mechanism designed to secure windows against unauthorized opening, enhancing the physical security of a property.
Window Sensor: A device that detects when a window is opened, closed, or broken, triggering an alarm if unauthorized access is attempted.
Wired: Refers to security systems where components are connected via physical cables, often offering reliable communication and power without reliance on batteries.
Wireless: Security systems that use radio frequency or other wireless technologies to communicate between components, offering easier installation and flexibility.
Wireless Communication: The transfer of information between system components without physical connections, using technologies like RF, Wi-Fi, or cellular signals.
Wireless Home Security: Security solutions for homes that utilize wireless components, making installation simpler and less invasive.
Wireless Security System: A security setup where sensors, cameras, and control panels communicate wirelessly, often featuring mobile app integration and remote management.
X
(No terms under "X" in the provided list.)
Y
(No terms under "Y" in the provided list.)
Z
Zone: A specific area or circuit within a security system monitored by sensors; helps identify where an alarm event has occurred.
Zone Descriptor: A label or description assigned to a zone to identify its location or function within the security system.
Zone Expanders: Devices that increase the number of zones a control panel can monitor, allowing for more sensors and greater area coverage.