At Security Masters, we support National Home Security Month every year because they provide no-nonsense, easy to follow advice.

We know the thought of installing home security products can be overwhelming. Our customers often tell us that they find the range of products confusing, particularly these days with the advent of smart security systems.

People are constantly telling us that security jargon is hard to understand, and it sometimes puts them off securing their home because they feel like they don’t know what they’re talking about!

That’s why we were really pleased to see NHSM’s Jargon Buster. If you would like to learn more about home security systems, this simple list is a great place to start.

Busting the Security Jargon – The Highlights!

We’ve pulled out of the list some of the terms that our customers frequently find confusing. Don’t forget to click through to the Jargon Buster for a complete list.

Alarms

When it comes to alarms, most people understand that you “arm” your device when you leave the house and “disarm” it when you come home. But what’s a “part-arm”? Or “PIR”?  And should you be using a “smart plug?”

Part-Arm: When only certain rooms or areas in the home are monitored.

PIR: (Passive Infra-Red) A sensor that is used to monitor motion.

Smart-Plug: An adaptor that can be plugged into your socket and operated remotely, for example using your smartphone.

Cameras

A few years ago, security cameras were mainly associated with businesses and public places. Improvements in Wi-Fi and prices coming down mean now they’re easier than ever to install in houses. Here are some of the key terms about cameras you might hear.

IP: Whereas CCTV is usually wired, IP cameras use the internet to send and receive data either through cables or Wi-Fi.

DVR: A Digital Video Recorder monitors and records data it receives from cameras.

Bullet or Dome Cameras: Bullet cameras usually record one location such as a door, dome cameras take in a wider area and are usually used internally.

FPS (Frames Per Second): Normal FPS is 25FPS. Higher FPS will give you a better picture but uses more disk space.

Security Jargon: Busted!

So, if information about home security has you scratching your head, click through to the Jargon Buster for a list of terms that might help you. And remember, we are always here to offer easy-to-follow advice geared towards your family and your property. Stay safe!