How to: DIY Laser Security Systems
You always see sophisticated laser systems in movies, but those are super expensive, right? Nah, with a simple red laser and a photocell, DIY laser security is simple. There are a few different ways to setup your system and we’ll walk you through the process.
Laser systems work on the principal that if the laser is broken and isn’t received by the photoresistor, the alarm is activated. Tiny mirrors discreetly placed around the rooms to convert a single beam into several beams forming a net which will surely be broken by an intruder. Here is a video of a laser system in action below:
When that beam is broken, there are numerous methods you can use to alert yourself or scare away the intruder. Firstly, you can use your computers parallel port to send yourself a text message via e-mail. This is outlined in this post. or you can set up an alarm system as detailed below.
It’s quite easy to build a laser alarm security system for under $20 using basic items you’ll find lying around your house. These include the IR detector for most remote controls, electrical tape and a magnifying glass. This can easily be accomplished in just a few hours.
Often, setting up the laser system is not the problem for most. The touchy part is getting the laser and mirrors setup properly. So friends, you need not spend thousands of dollars on an expensive security system when you can create your own DIY security traps to accomplish the same job.
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March 6th, 2010
Hard wired systems are the traditional based design with wiring that connects all the necessary components. Usually, to install such a system, you need to be very astute in standard carpentry and handyman type skills. If you are a builder, you may prefer this type because the long term maintenance and care needed is less than the wireless version.
However, if you are less skilled or do not want to spend time drilling holes and running cable, the new standard wireless based security system may be more suitable. Wireless systems are more flexible in their design and can be used in most locations such as vacation homes, apartments and condominiums. Wireless systems are more durable and can be removed when the property is vacated. Wireless systems are more battery dependent and may require more maintenance and care to keep on top of battery replacement and testing.
Here are just a few of the items you need to think through when deciding on the do it yourself approach:
1. Do you want the system to be removed when you move from the property?
2. Will you be able to hardwire though walls if it is an older home with stone construction?
3. Are you prone to power outages? This could determine whether wireless is a better solution.
4. Will periodic care and maintenance be an issue? If so, Hardwired systems require less attention over time.
5. Do you rent or own your home that you want to secure? A landlord may not want you drilling into walls, so wireless may be more suitable.
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