You may not realize it, but by some historical standards, we are currently living in a relative utopia. Human resourcefulness has contributed to a large number of technological advancements, which have provided us with everything from running water to cross-globe communication. Innovation is a valuable tool in all aspects of society, and can be extremely useful when applied to the topic of home security. Here’s a quick guide to the definition of “Do-it-Yourself” home security, as well as creative feedback from several people on their fictional ideal security system.
What is DIY Home Security?
Depending on the context, “Do-it-Yourself” home security can have several different meanings.
Do-it-Yourself Home Security Kits
Some people want to have a full range of customization over the components of their security system. To meet this need, many companies are now providing “DIY Security Kits”. These kits usually consist of a variety of sensors, monitoring devices and motion-activated devices. Depending on the company, these kits may or may not come with a contract or monitoring plan. While DIY home security kits allow for customization, they may or may not also contain a “control panel” to centralize the data that is captured by all of the different components/sensors.
Alternate Security Methods
In some cases, DIY home security can refer to using alternative methods of home security. For example, purchasing and installing a burglar-proof deadbolt lock yourself can greatly increase the security of your home. Other alternative DIY security methods include “home security landscaping”, installing motion detecting security lights, and having a trained guard dog to protect your home. This type of DIY home security is often combined with the protection offered by a monitored security system for maximum effectiveness.
Tech-Savvy Home Security
For people with a fair amount of technical knowledge, the prospect of creating a home security system from scratch can be an inviting challenge. This type of DIY home security can involve building/programming motion sensors, creating a camera that only records when it detects movement, an alarm that activates when a door is opened, and sensors that send out a text message when they are triggered.
In a quick interview, several people shared their own innovative (and creative!) ideas on their ideal type of fictional security system.
Q: How Would You Protect Your Home?
A: Dogs with laser eyes and shoot bees out of their mouths when they bark.-Andrew J.
A: Arnold Schwarzenegger. 
– James T. W.
A: I’d build a moat around my place, and have sharks with lasers attached to their heads swimming around. – Alex G.
A: A Robot Lawn Gnome surveillance system. Like Invader Zim had! :p – Alex G.
A: My dad would be my security system. – Natalie M.
A: I’m thinking more evil lair-ish. Several trap floors, some leading to spikes, some leading to large rooms with rabid animals lying in wait to attack. Random flamethrowers when doors are opened. Huge glass/plastic cages that fall from the ceiling and fill with poisonous gas, which are connected by floor tile switches. Evil disfigured minions patrolling the corridors. And for my own personal touch, a speaker system so I can taunt the trespassers with Mariah Carey music. – Waison C.
How to Make Your Own Laser Security System
This instructional video details the components that you will need to construct your very own laser security system. This system is fairly inexpensive, and can be built without a comprehensive knowledge of electronics. However, when soldering, always follow the proper safety procedures in order to avoid injury.
How to Make a Trip-Wire Alarm
This simple demo shows you how to make a trip-wire-activated alarm using a few household items.
Make Your Own Burglar Alarm
This video demo was released by Parallax, showing how to make a burglar alarm using some of the company’s devices. An interesting feature of this video is an explanation of how to create “custom characters” to display on the alarm’s LCD display! Though not all steps are detailed in the video, additional resources can be found on the Parallax forums.
