Keeping your business safe from intruders is a key consideration for all business owners. With so many commercial intruder alarm systems on the market today - how do you know which one is the best for your premises? BTT, as always, is here to help. As security experts, our team will help you to decide on the very best security solution for your company property. To make an informed decision, read on to learn the key differences between wired and wireless intruder alarm systems.
Wired vs wireless commercial intruder alarms
Costs
Wireless commercial intruder alarms are typically more expensive to buy than their wired counterparts. However, wireless alarm systems are easier to install - which reduces the installation time and overall cost.
If you pick a wired commercial intruder alarm, you have to buy the associated equipment - we’re talking cable, cable clips, trunking, and more.
Wired vs wireless commercial intruder alarms
Installation
A wireless alarm system may have a higher cost for its individual parts, but the installation time for this type of system is typically much shorter than that of a wired system, leading to less disruption in business operations.
Although wireless systems are generally less expensive to install, the cost advantage may diminish for larger properties where more sensors are needed to provide adequate coverage across multiple levels and rooms. As the amount of equipment required increases, the overall cost of the system also increases.
Overall, however, wireless systems are often the more cost-effective and quicker option for businesses.
Defining wired and wireless alarm systems
The distinction between wired and wireless alarm systems can be broken down into three main factors
1. Communication between sensors and control panel
In a wireless system, sensors use radio frequency technology to communicate with the control panel. In a hardwired system, sensors are connected to the control panel through wires concealed within the walls and floors.
2. Communication between the control panel and monitoring centre
For wireless systems, the control panel communicates with the monitoring centre using a cellular connection. By contrast, wired control panels utilise either the property’s telephone line or Ethernet cable to connect to the monitoring centre
3. Power source for equipment
Wireless equipment is battery-powered, whereas wired equipment can either be plugged into a standard wall outlet or directly hardwired into the property’s electrical system.
Let’s now turn to the specifics.
Wired vs wireless commercial intruder alarms
Maintenance
A slight disadvantage to wireless alarm systems is that the batteries need to be changed in all the devices every 2-5 years, depending on usage. However, the back-up battery in the main control panel in a wired system and the external siren battery will require changing approximately every 5 years.
Whichever system you choose, maintenance will delay the need to replace equipment while keeping ongoing costs down.
Wired vs wireless commercial intruder alarms
Reliability
While a wired security system is traditionally viewed as more reliable due to its physical connections and lack of potential signal interference, modern wireless systems have greatly improved and are now comparable in terms of reliability.
With this in mind, the difference between the two commercial alarm systems is no longer significant.
Now we’ve explored wired vs wireless business intruder alarms, there’s one thing we haven’t mentioned... Hybrid.
How to choose the best commercial intruder alarm system for your business
Achieving peace of mind for your business is guaranteed with a dependable intruder alarm system.
When you’re deciding whether a wired or wireless alarm system is suitable for your business premises, it's best to discuss your needs in person and ensure that all the details are accurately checked.
Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a business intruder alarm system:
Your specific security needs - before selecting a business alarm system, assess the security risks and threats to your business. Consider the type of business you have, the location, and the valuable assets you want to protect.
Evaluate the features: choose an alarm system that provides the features you need - such as motion detectors, glass break detectors, door and window sensors, and CCTV cameras.
Compatibility with other security systems: if you already have other security systems in place, such as access control systems or fire alarms, make sure the new alarm system you choose is compatible with them.
And last but by no means least..
Seek expert guidance:
Consult with the professional and friendly BTT security team. We will ensure you choose the right business intruder alarm system that fits your specific security needs.
We visit your business premises to perform a free security audit. This enables us to assess all the security risks to your business and provide you with a detailed audit of the areas that expose your business to opportunists.
We will look at the layout of your site, entrances and exits, the nature of the different buildings and any existing security measures.