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Hardware For Home Security?

Posted by Cliff on from the build-your-own-alarm-system dept.

This (rightfully) angry Anonymous Coward asks: "When I got home, my front door was wide open! Evil types must have broken in. They stole my two Linux boxen, two monitors, laser printer, and ~250 CDs. They didn't trash anything, important things are backed-up, and the cat is fine. But I am pissed off!! I want to set up a simple Linux-based security system (umm...when i get a new box). I need help finding info on: digital cameras (outdoor?), motion detectors, lasers tripwires(??), etc. which can be hooked up in a manageable fashion to a Linux box. Can anyone help me?"

4 of 39 comments (clear)

  1. The cheapest solution... by Wog · · Score: 3

    You could always train your cat..

    Fluffy, kill!

  2. Go dedicated by djweis · · Score: 4

    I think a real alarm system would be a better bet. They are designed to run longer on battery power, have better protection on the leads, and have neat displays available. Some of them do have RS232 outputs so you can monitor it from your linux machine, however.
    DSC is a pretty popular brand. They include manuals and are pretty easy to set up. If you are installing it, you can do it for under $300-$400.

  3. I suggest a professional system by Vassily+Overveight · · Score: 4
    My brother is a professional alarm installer, so my viewpoint is based on what I've learned from him. Unless you want to do this as a hobby just for your own interest, I suggest getting a professionally-installed system. Doing this yourself is going to require quite a bit of time and effort, and if you end up controlling and recording the result on your own linux hardware, the thieves may simply remove all of the evidence. Professionals will be able to do a neat and effective job of installion. From personal experience, I know that cats can be a problem with certain types of sensors, and a professional will know how to work around your particlar requirements. They have access to and knowledge of sensors and equipment that will be difficult for you to obtain on your own. For example, there are wireless battery-powered sensors for locations to which you can't run wires. The central alarm panel periodically queries the sensors and can detect tripped or malfunctioning ones. Finding and installing good ones properly would be a challenge to someone who doesn't do alarm work all the time.



    One thing you don't want is to end up with a system that gives a lot of false alarms. The cops hate that and, even if you don't draw a fine, they'll soon start to ignore you. The objective of a security system isn't to help capture the thieves after the fact, it's to make it difficult and undesireable for them to attempt to steal in the first place. Not knowing your exact circumstances (neighbors, whether your area is patrolled by police, etc.) precludes me making a definitive suggestion, however, the usual system where I live uses an outdoor horn and a dial-in to a central company who will alert police. My own home has one interior door with a sensor, and an infrared beam down a central hallway which would be unavoidable by a thief. The beam is set quite high, with a one-second delay and with no furniture near it, because of the cats. It also has fire sensors. If an alarm goes off, the central office calls and if it gets no answer or someone who doesn't know the password, they call the police or fire department. It's a good system, and the only false alarms I've had were before we perfected the cat-proof infrared beam, and because of a failed fire sensor.



    I know that you're justifiably upset and the natural instinct is revenge in the circumstances (cameras would be great to catch these scum), but take a deep breath and think about the problem logically. Take appropriate steps to secure your dwelling with a reliable and effective system, and don't rush to implement something that ends up being a less-than-effective solution. That said, you could probably get a decent professional alarm system and supplement it with cameras or whatever else might be of interest. I would, however, leave the job of actually tripping the alarm to the professional portion of the system.


    This has rambled a bit, but it's my best advice. Good luck.

    --

    "If I have seen further than other men, it is by stepping on their glasses." - Michael Swaine

  4. I can supply hardware at good prices. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5

    I've got two Linux boxen, two monitors and a laser printer available (and ~250 CDs).