In one of the famous scenes of the 1999 movie “Entrapment”, Catherine Zeta Jones navigates through a field of simulated lasers. The scene was featured in the trailer, on television shows, and has even been mimicked in the 2004 movie “Oceans Twelve”. Though the laser scene was criticized by movie reviewers for focusing a lot on Catherine Zeta Jones’ anatomy, it remains to be an element of popular culture even today.
While the visible lasers often seen in Hollywood movies are a myth, there are lasers that are used to protect homes from unwanted intruders. These laser systems are actually fairly inexpensive, and can provide a comprehensive system of motion detection in certain areas of a home. Furthermore, these laser security systems don’t have to be purchased from a security company, and can often be found at many general electronic retail stores.
How Does it Work?
There are several components that may be used in a laser security system. For generalization purposes, this article will cover the most common features. This includes:
Circuit Board
The circuit board for a laser security system usually includes a microchip, a voltage regulator, a battery, a resistor and a photo cell. It’s possible to make your own circuit board for a laser security system, as long as you have access to the proper tools and materials.
Pet Immunity
Since lasers are so easily triggered, many laser security systems also include a pet immune feature. If your system does not have pet immunity, you may want to place your laser security system at a height where it will not accidentally cause your pets to trigger the alarm.
Audible Alarm
As a deterrent, a laser security system may include an audible alarm. This alarm will be triggered when one of the laser beams is broken, signaling that the system detected movement.
Text Message Alerts
When a laser security system detects movement inside your home, it may be able to send you a text message alert. This can be done even if you have built the system yourself, as long as you have a fair bit of electrical knowledge.
Expansion Capability
Some laser security systems are sold as stand-alone models (without monitoring), while some are sold as a part of a whole security system package. Many laser security systems can be expanded to include non-laser features, such as flood detectors, carbon monoxide sensors and wireless security cameras. If you want a system that has expansion capabilities, you may want to purchase your laser security system from a company that also offers monitoring protection.
Laser Shield Home Alarm System Demo
This video from Brickhouse Security shows how the LaserShield wireless home alarm system works, as well as the proper installation procedures. This particular system can be combined with monitoring, which may either be activated an electronics store, on the internet, or over the phone.
Mythbusters Tests Laser Security
This video is from the popular TV show “Mythbusters”, where the team tests methods that could allow them to bypass a laser security system installed in a narrow room. Many of the methods that they try to use are featured in popular Hollywood movies.
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