The alarm control is the brain of your security system. It is typically placed in an area that is out of the way like a basement, attic, closet or office. The motherboard and additional components such as radio receivers, backup power supply and zone expanders are inside this metal box, which is often locked. You will have a little or no interface with the alarm control. Your alarm technician will need to access this unit to program and wire it to the general standards, or your custom standards.

There are many manufacturers of alarm controls. Each manufacturer will also produce several models within a particular product line. Alarm companies purchase directly from the manufacturer or more often, buy their products through one of a few available alarm distributors in their area. These distributors and manufacturers do not sell products to the non- professional consumers.

As a general rule,  the controls that are most dependable and have the most programming options are more costly. I will teach you how to get the best control you can find as this will greatly affect your ease of use and ability to have your alarm adjusted to fit your lifestyle.

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