Hardwired vs. Wireless Security Systems

It can be a daunting process to choose the best security system for your business or home. When researching a security system the features, price, expansion capabilities and security concerns should all be taken into consideration. Using a professional security systems integrator can quickly and easily answer all of your questions and narrow the decision to the appropriate security system meeting all of your needs.

A wireless system may be more flexible but a hardwired system may be more reliable. We have listed the pros and cons for each system as well as how we formulate our recommendations for our customers.

Hardwired security system – Sensors placed throughout the building on doors and windows are wired directly to a control panel.

Pros

• More reliable than a wireless system.
• The system is less likely to have radio or electrical interference from other devices.
• Many of the components will be compatible with upgrades.
• Hardwired systems run on a/c power with battery backup in case of an electrical interruption.
• They offer a lower long term cost, no frequent battery replacement.
• Wiring can easily be completed while a building is being built or renovated.
• Connect through phone or computer system for remote monitoring.
• Good for medium to large businesses or homes.

Cons

• Can be difficult to install in some buildings.
• Hiding all the wires may be a challenge.
• Once installed, it may be difficult to remove and move to a new location.
• Labor costs can be higher.
• Renter? Will your landlord allow you to drill holes into the walls, floors and ceilings?
• Exposed wires can get damaged.
• Wiring a sensor to a particular point in the building may not be practical.

Wireless security system - Sensors placed throughout the building on doors and windows transmit signals to a control panel via radio waves.

Pros

• Relatively quick to install.
• Easier to reach inaccessible locations.
• Cost-effective installation.
• The system can be moved fairly easily.
• Flexible and can easily and quickly be extended to keep pace with a growing business.
• Suitable for smaller or medium commercial buildings.
• Good alternative for a concrete or cinderblock building.
• Sometimes it can be integrated with other wireless systems.
• Connect through phone or computer system for remote monitoring.
• No wires to run.

Cons

• More costly in the long run, replacing batteries can be costly and time consuming.
• There can be radio interference, sensor issues in large buildings due to the distance from the sensor to the control panel.
• Components can cost more.

Recommendations

Our recommendation depends upon the customer; we evaluate their needs, their building or buildings and property along with taking into consideration their security concerns. These concerns usually revolve around protecting people and property.

We try to provide the best security system solution to meet all of our clients’ needs. Some need a fully wired system because of the size of their building; some will need a fully wireless system because the building is concrete, while others will need a hybrid, a combination of both. Setting up a combined system works well in most situations.

The hybrid system gives greater flexibility, using both wired and wireless system components. These components can easily be combined, using the same programming, signaling and standard detectors. Sensors can be installed in areas where wires cannot reach, while more sensitive areas can be hardwired directly to the panel.

Whichever you choose it must be a reliable system, and always use a professional security system integrator to install your system. The knowledge and expertise will ensure the system is installed correctly and you will have the customer service to back up your new system.

As a security systems integrator we can assess your risks and design a system to suit your specific needs. Call us today at 800-570-6478 for a FREE ASSESSMENT.