hidden glass break sensors

[jopke]

I'm installing a new security system (leaning towards Elk M1) and want everything to be as hidden as possible.

Are there hidden glass break sensors available? Something that can go inside the wall or otherwise not visible?

 

[gizzmo]

They acoustic devices so the best you can do is to place them behind the drapes. This may require a lot more detectors for coverage.

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[tmbrown97]

These GE Shatterpro sensors are extremely inconspicuous - they recess mount and are very small - you'd never notice it.

 

[video321]

I thought about this same thing; even considered putting them in the upper jamb since I have 2x6 exterior walls and the windows are trimmed out. In the end, I installed them in the ceilings - the Honeywell equivalent of what Work2Play suggested.

 

[Del91574]

Also, as another option and not going the electronic route, you can conversely have the window screens wired, covering the entire entry point and be even less visible.

 

[tadr]

These GE Shatterpro sensors are extremely inconspicuous - they recess mount and are very small - you'd never notice it.

This is what I installed in my home. You can disable the LED (which flashes whenever there is a loud noise)

 

[RobNJ]

This is what I installed in my home. You can disable the LED (which flashes whenever there is a loud noise)

I have these as well. Other then the official glass break tester, anyone find another route for testing? Will just smashing an old drinking glass do it? I assume it is ready and waiting to work, but would like to know for sure.

 

[tmbrown97]

They have a "hand clap" feature to test the microphone - the light should blink but it won't trip the sensor. That's to let you confirm that the microphone is listening. Beyond that you'd probably need a real glass-break tester to trigger the alarm. The sound of a breaking drinking glass should be different than that of a pane window so it might not trip the alarm.

 

[gizzmo]

Also, as another option and not going the electronic route, you can conversely have the window screens wired, covering the entire entry point and be even less visible.

I like this idea, I think screens are the best protection hands down. They have a comfort value too. Advise from someone used to make them, always have the plug at the top side.

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[tmbrown97]

Security screens are absolutely awesome - the best protection hands down... you can leave your windows open and still be secure, and you'll get alerts before your window is even broken if someone is trying to enter.

 

[gannhometech]

Interesting these suggestions about security screens and their benefits. Why is it they are so rarely used and sold in the security industry? Any recommended manufacturers or websites to research?

 

[gizzmo]

Very labor intensive to make. Which means added cost. I hear that they are very popular in Florida.

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[chrisexv6]

Interesting these suggestions about security screens and their benefits. Why is it they are so rarely used and sold in the security industry? Any recommended manufacturers or websites to research?

I was quoted 60.00 per screen for my casement windows (up to a certain size, I was well within range). I have 11 casement windows to "arm". That would be 660.00 for the windows, vs hardwiring and the 2.00/contact Tanes I used. So 660.00 vs 22.00. Im guessing thats most of the reason. The look might be another (although I havent seen one in person yet). Luckily there is a company near me that does alarm screens and will do any amount of screens, even just 1 or 2, so Im going to go take a look at their work, and will probably get 1 or 2 of mine done.

Oddly enough, I was getting a price of 60.00/window using *wireless* sensors, so at that point it was a wash. I hardwired them myself and used Tane pill contacts, and when I feel like it I may bring one or two screens at a time to get changed to alarm screens. Alarm screens can use the hardwire I already ran, so I dont need to touch anything.

 

[gizzmo]

By the time you factor in the labor/wiring on your side. Shipping your screens to the rescreener and the return shipping plus the $60 it can add up. Don't forget to add a few more zones, trouble shooting can be a real b#tch.

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[chrisexv6]

By the time you factor in the labor/wiring on your side. Shipping your screens to the rescreener and the return shipping plus the $60 it can add up. Don't forget to add a few more zones, trouble shooting can be a real b#tch.

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Im lucky in that there is a security screening co about 15 miles from me and they accept "walk-ins" so no shipping cost here.

Interested in the troubleshooting..........how would it be any different than mag. contacts, aside from the potential to change resistance over time (which ElkRP would show me)