| Simple Security Solutions and Biometric Technology |
From "Home Tech"
episode HTC-105 |
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Simple Security Options If you can't afford a sophisticated, professionally monitored home-security system, there are some simpler, less expensive options for making your home safer. One such option X10 technology, a smart-home technology that's perfect for do-it-yourselfers. X10 uses remote control and takes advantage of the existing electrical wiring that's in your home. Signals are sent through the electrical wiring to control electrical devices such as light switches. The obvious benefit to X10 technology is that it's simple to install in that it requires no wiring. An X10 works by means of a controller unit that transmits signals to various receiver modules throughout the house. The receiver modules in turn control the devices to which they're connected. X10 utilizes several assignable channels and can orchestrate a number of command functions either through remote control or through your home PC. X10 can have a number of applications for home security. For example, a motion-detector can be set up outside your front door. When someone approaches the door, the motion-detector sends a message to an X10 controller unit, which in turn sends a signal to a control unit that turns on an inside light. You can also install controller units allowing you to turn lights off and on using a remote-control device on your keychain. All that's required is plugging in the controller units (figure A) to the electrical outlets, then plugging the lights you want to control into those units. You can then use the remote to control the lights from anywhere in your home -- or outside. An X10-based doorbell/videophone-intercom (figure B) can be set up outside your front door. Once plugged in, it generates and transmits a video signal through your electrical lines. Those signals are picked up by a video monitor (figure C) inside your home. The videophone device is easy to install. The outdoor unit simply mounts to the wall outside your front door, and the wiring connects at the back of the unit (figure D). Running the wires inside your home to a receiving monitor may require some drilling and cutting in order to conceal the wiring. Consider hiring a professional electrician if that part of the job is beyond the scope of your expertise. Another simple installation for helping make your home secure is motion-detector flood lamps. These devices (figure E) can be mounted at entrances to your home, over driveways and other locations where illumination might improve safety. When the built-in motion sensor detects any movement within its operating range, it turns on the connected lights for a preset period of time. These units are installed and wired in the same manner as any other permanent light fixture in your home. The kits usually come with wire-nuts and instructions for installation. Safety Alert: For any electrical installation, make certain the power is turned off at the junction box before you begin work in order to avoid electric shock.
Biometric Technology Once the stuff of futuristic science-fiction movies, one very sophisticated form of technology may be making its way into home security in the near future. Biometric technology recognizes individuals based on unique physical attributes such as fingerprints, handprints, facial features or even "eyeprints" -- a unique imprint based on the blood-vessel configuration within the eye. Security systems can be set up to use biometric recognition, in conjunction with personal identification badges or security cards, to allow admittance only to authorized individuals. Reliability is virtually foolproof since, for example, no two individuals' fingerprints are exactly alike. At present, biometric security is expensive and has been used mostly in high-security commercial or government settings. Eventually the technology is bound to make its way into home-security systems.
RESOURCES :
Aegis Security
Aegis Security
Denver , CO 80223
Phone: 303-922-2844
CSI/Speco Security
Web site: www.csi-speco.com
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Home Security
Model: 0028639510
Author: Tom Davidson, Lorna Gentry, Steve McVey
Macmillan / Alpha Books
Website: www.macmillan.com
Home Safe Home: How to Safeguard Your Home and Family Against Break-Ins
Model: 088282113X
Author: Helen Maxwell, Michael Maxwell
New Horizon Press
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