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Intruder alarms are commonplace and widely used to protect homes and commercial properties. With their cutting-edge technology, today’s intruder alarms have evolved significantly since the 1700s when the first burglar alarm was invented.
Let’s delve into their history.
Before the arrival of physical burglar alarms, dogs and geese were commonly used to scare off intruders.
An English inventor, Mr Tildsley, created the first burglar alarm in the 1700s. He mechanically linked a set of chimes to a door lock so that when anyone tried to use the wrong key, it set off the chimes.
Over 150 years later, Augustus Pope, an American inventor, patented an electronic alarm system comprising electricity, magnets, and a bell. Pope’s system used an electrical circuit that would close when triggered by a door or window opening and ring a bell.
Augustus Pope sold his patent to Edward Holmes, who began manufacturing alarms in Boston. After an unsuccessful start, he grew his business by moving to Brooklyn, New York, where there was a higher crime rate.
Holmes developed the concept of alarm monitoring, establishing the first centralised alarm monitoring system in New York City. Using telegraph cables, he linked his alarm systems directly to his offices so he could monitor them.
In 1905, AT&T bought the alarm business from Holmes and developed alarm monitoring further by linking alarms to the police and fire emergency call systems.
In the 1970s, motion sensors using ultrasonic technology were the next major alarm innovation. An intruder tripping a sensor would cause a change in the sound and trigger the alarm. Infrared technology, introduced to alarms in the 1980s, enhanced their effectiveness and helped prevent false alarms.
The 1980s and 1990s saw the introduction of wireless intruder alarms. These systems used radio signals to connect sensors and control panels, eliminating the need for extensive wiring.
Wireless alarms are more flexible than wired systems and have become the predominant type of alarm system.
Smart technology was introduced in the 21st century and revolutionised intruder alarms. Today’s smart alarm systems are highly customisable and can integrate with other aspects of home security. They can also be controlled remotely via smartphones, tablets, or computers.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are likely to play a significant role in the evolution of intruder alarms. AI-enabled alarm systems can analyse behaviour patterns and differentiate between false alarms (such as pet movement) and actual threats. These systems can also learn and adapt to the occupier’s habits, creating more accurate and reliable alerts.
Also, facial recognition and biometric technologies are becoming more prevalent in security systems. These technologies enable more precise identification of who’s entering or leaving a property, which reduces false alarms and improves response times.
We’re excited to see where technology takes intruder alarms of the future. One thing is certain – security will continue to evolve, making our homes and businesses safer than ever before.
To book a free intruder alarm consultation and quote, please call us on 01392 368830 or complete our contact form.
