What is the best GSM car alarm system and what are the disadvantages?

Security and alarm systems are improving every day, and the need for them is only growing. Prices for new models are also rising. If we take an average security system and consider it as a candidate for installation in a house, country house or garage, then it will be incredibly difficult to fit into 20-30 thousand rubles. Meanwhile, it is possible to make an alarm yourself from old trash that everyone has in the house. This will be a fully functional intrusion warning system or an addition to an already installed system.

What is GSM alarm

First, it’s worth understanding the types of alarms and the principles of their operation. It is quite possible that we will choose among them the most optimal option for a particular object. For example, if you need to protect a dacha on the outskirts of a holiday village from burglary, then the sound alarm itself will not help much.

Putting a house under remote control is effective, but expensive. But a DIY GSM alarm from your phone would be an ideal option in this case.

Alarm with feedback

It should be added that a two-channel type alarm or a car alarm with feedback is a whole complex of technical parts, the full operation of which makes it possible to protect vehicles from unauthorized entry or undue influence in order to cause damage or penetrate inside the vehicle. Basically, the set of such an alarm system is based on: a siren, a shock sensor, special means where an alert about an external attack is sent, mainly a key fob or a GSM module is chosen. It is only because of the presence of these elements that this technology is referred to as “feedback”, since any type of action that is aimed at violating the integrity of the vehicle - a blow, penetration for robbery - can be immediately recorded and reported using that the car owner's key fob.

Such alarm systems with feedback, based on the technical capabilities with which the manufacturer equipped them during production, can carry out various tasks. Some, for example, can only inform that a door, trunk or hood has opened, talk about the engine turning on or impacts. But more functional, and therefore expensive, versions of popular brands, in addition to the above option, are also capable of remotely starting the engine or recognizing the car owner only with the help of the key fob itself, which is located near it, even without the need to use it.

Types of security systems

In principle, the most common types of security systems today are:

1. Remote security. Signals from sensors installed at a security facility are transmitted in several ways - via the Internet, as a GSM signal, via a direct dedicated cable. This pleasure is expensive, because like it or not, you have to pay a subscription fee. In addition, the sensors themselves also cost a lot. But after installing such a system, you can sleep peacefully.
2. Autonomous systems. This is exactly the case when the alarm signal is transmitted only in the immediate vicinity of the cottage, garage or house. Such systems are most often used for cars. Depending on the design of the system, it will make sounds, turn on flashing lights and light bulbs, but in a deserted place on a frosty morning this is unlikely to somehow stop intruders. There are systems that operate on a 220 volt network, and there are more autonomous designs that use a battery as a power source.
3. GSM systems. The simplest and most inexpensive wireless system. It notifies the owner of unauthorized access via mobile phone. The good thing about the system is that it works directly with the owner, naturally, only if he and the system itself are within the coverage area of ​​the mobile operator.

Moto gadgets

Why was I angry before? I didn't have a bike. And now that my motorcycle has been stolen, I’ll just kill you! © Postman Pechkin, folk version I slowly choose a signal for my endurka. Below the cut is the information that I managed to extract from the internet.

A small educational program so as not to get confused in terms

An alarm with a one-way communication channel is the simplest option; there is no information display on the key fob.
The car is stolen - the siren is screaming, the key fob is silent, no one cares. Alarms with a two-way communication channel (with feedback) - usually there are 2 key fobs: one with an LCD display, the second without it, a spare one. The car is stolen, the siren screams, the key fob beeps and lights up, the owner runs out and gives the thief fair retribution.

The very first alarms with a radio channel had a static code - each command had its own command packet. Since there were few code options, sometimes you could use your key fob to open someone else’s car with the same alarm system - the package formats were the same. Some cheap Chinese alarm systems still use static code.

A dynamic code differs from a static code in that each time the button is pressed, the packet format changes according to a certain law, which is known only to the alarm system and the key fob programmed for it. The most famous dynamic encoding algorithm is Keeloq from Microchip. Analytically, the Keeloq algorithm has not yet been cracked. All the mathematical power of this technology is negated by the physical implementation - no one is trying to select the code. Instead, the package is spoiled, remembered and sent next time. Many security system manufacturers have developed their own dynamic codes, introducing various improvements. Some of them have still not been opened, and seem to be able to be used in security systems. The more individual, small-scale, or newer the product, the lower the likelihood of opening the descriptor from this model range. However, no dynamic code guarantees protection against hacking!

To protect against code grabbers, we developed a double dynamic code (D2) , in which when you press the key fob, not only the code changes, but also the law of formation of a new code. This individual rule is written to the decoder once when programming the key fob; it no longer appears on the air and is not available for radio interception. Even the system developer, having all the necessary information about encoding methods and the appropriate equipment, will not be able to decipher this code. True, the dark side of the Force did not sleep and advanced code grabbers appeared, capable of hacking D2.

The most crypto-resistant and reliable is considered to be the dialogue exchange protocol between the key fob and the main unit, using asymmetric encryption algorithms and a frequency of 2.4 GHz. It requires a two-way communication channel, that is, the presence of a receiver and transmitter, both in the main module and in the key fob. Having received a signal, the system makes sure that it was sent from “its” key fob, and this happens not just once, but in a dialogue. In response to the first signal, the system sends a request to the key fob in the form of a pseudo-random number, which is processed by the key fob using a special algorithm and sent back. The alarm processes its message using the same algorithm, comparing the received response with its data. If they match, the command is executed and a confirmation is sent to the key fob. True, even dialogue coding will not save you from physical theft of a key fob.

A fairly common subtype of feedback alarms is GSM alarms . They can be controlled both from key fobs and from a phone by sending special. SMS commands, or by calling and typing a command in tone mode. Uses a SIM card from any operator. If the GSM signal is lost in security mode, then upon subsequent restoration an SMS is sent. In an emergency, the alarm sends an SMS indicating the reason for the alarm, and also starts calling the owner. A good thing, if not for a couple of nuances: there is no 100% coverage of the territory with cellular communications, there is a high probability of being left in a remote area with a locked bike and a dead smartphone, and the need to pay for communication. In theory, you can add a WiFi module and partially bypass these limitations, but I have never seen ready-made motorcycle alarms of this kind. However, everything is going to the point that we will soon come to a tag + smartphone combination, and the use of key fobs will become a thing of the past.

Jammers for all GSM bands can now be bought at every turn. However, for any tricky nut there is always a bolt with a left-hand thread. In this case, these are GSM channel control modules : every 2-3 minutes, the alarm sends a short mark like “I’m there, everything is ok, coordinates xx, y” to a special server every 2-3 minutes via the GPRS channel. As soon as the server does not receive a signal within the allotted time, an SMS is sent indicating that the connection has been lost.

Some modern alarm systems are equipped with an RFID tag for contactless access (“hands free”), the communication range is up to 10 meters. There is no need to take the key fob out of your pocket and press the button - if the tag is within the range of the alarm receiver, the motorcycle is disarmed. Basically, tags operate at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. On the one hand, it’s a convenient thing, but there are some nuances. According to Alexey Night-hunter, “it’s annoying to constantly set and remove the motorcycle from the signaling device when you are standing not far from the motorcycle and the key is in your pocket, and not in the ignition switch, since the tag is triggered and sends signals in one direction, then in another."

Satellite alarms - determine the coordinates of the vehicle in real time and transmit information via a GSM channel to the monitoring center. In the event of an alarm, the operator calls the owner and can send an emergency response team to the scene. Currently (February 2013) in Russia there is only one satellite motorcycle alarm system - ARKAN Moto. In addition to GSM, it has an independent backup communication channel operating at frequencies from 146 to 174 MHz. In essence, it is not just a satellite, but a radio search alarm and operates on the basis of ARKAN direction-finding autonomous stations. These stations are located in such a way that the system covers the entire city, as well as suburban areas at a distance of up to 100 kilometers (as far as I know, so far only in large Russian cities). The ARKAN radio channel cannot be jammed by means available to car thieves, and it breaks through even from metal shelters, tunnels and multi-level parking lots. Judging by foreign experience, the chances of returning a motorbike with a radio search signal are about 80%.

A GPS/GSM beacon is an extremely useful thing, both as a separate bookmark and as a bonus to the signal. Beacons can be self-powered from lithium-ion batteries or powered from a battery. Autonomous ones are usually enough for 500-1000 SMS, and non-autonomous ones eat up the battery in a couple of days (since the current consumption of beacons is, at best, about 40 mA in the cellular network registration mode, and about 60 mA in the satellite search mode). In sleep mode, the beacon consumes <10mA, but then it has to spend about 30 seconds registering with the cellular network and searching for satellites. And SMS messages are not transmitted instantly... But three migrant workers throw a motorcycle into the Gazelle in one minute.

When the accelerometer is triggered/voltage is applied to the contact, the beacon immediately after turning on sends an SMS: “AAA! I got kicked!!!" When he finds the satellites, he sends another SMS with the coordinates in pursuit: “Master, they’re kicking me here! Save me urgently!!!" And if he doesn’t find satellites, then he writes “Sorry, bro. I don't see any satellites. Run to where you last saw me!!”

If you use an autonomous beacon as a bookmark, you can set the mode to communicate and wait for commands once a day. It won’t be detected by a field scanner if it’s stolen, but then it will send the coordinates of the car (if you hide it deeper so that it won’t be found during a physical inspection).

An advanced version of the beacon – a GPS/GSM tracker – allows you to track the movements of a motorcycle online through a special program/web interface.

Defense strategy

Many are sure that only expensive, pretentious motorcycles are stolen, but this is not true! They steal everything that is bad. Standard theft scheme: jamming - hijacking - transfer to a sump - dismantling the blocks, if they can be found - sediment - transfer to the buyer or accomplice for legalization.
Airbrushing no longer deters theft, because... There is a cheap opportunity to change the exterior with vinyl films. There is no point in installing a secret toggle switch/immobilizer, because... all this can be easily dismantled in the sump.

Motorcycles are stolen either by professionals on a tip, or by local punks. While it is quite difficult to defend against the former, sometimes even a simple blaring signal is enough to protect against the latter. However, mechanical protection should not be neglected. Ideally, protection should be comprehensive. It seems to me that there should be a cool, discreet case, a thick chain with a good lock to the nearest post, a signaling device with an OS and a beacon, and an autonomous beacon-bookmark in a secret place. A video camera that records when a motion sensor is triggered / a photo recorder / a guarded parking lot / an egg-snatching dog / a fighting jungle cat are also welcome =)

From an interview with Andrey Kondrashov, who specializes in car theft protection, I learned that in order to protect a vehicle from theft, it is necessary to make theft highly skilled, unprofitable and time-consuming.

The nameless comrade seter has already given an excerpt from this interview regarding motorcycles:

How can you protect your motorcycle from theft? 1. Mostly, motorcycles are stolen by the full loading method, so when you start moving it, you need to turn on powerful piezo sirens, the sound of which is beyond the pain threshold. The motorcycle will become difficult to move. You either need to cover your ears or move the motorcycle. 2. Notify the owner, who can use a command (from the remote control or phone), after making sure that the motorcycle is being stolen, and activate a smoke cartridge that generates 100 cubic meters of smoke. The assholes will run away in panic, and if they managed to drag him into the Gazelle, they will gladly throw him out. 3. If the motorcycle is still taken away, try to look for it using an autonomous beacon, which can be hidden very well, despite the size of the motorcycle.

TK

Basic requirements: low current consumption, compactness, moisture protection, ability to connect additional.
sensors, sensitivity adjustment, reliability. Low current consumption is a key parameter in motorcycle alarms. From the comments we found out an important nuance: according to Andrey Andsah, “manufacturers indicate consumption under the condition of a normal GSM and GPS signal. If the signal is weak or absent, then the consumption is much greater. By the way, this problem also applies to most alarms with a pager.”

KMK, the most universal version of a motorcycle alarm, is an alarm with interactive radio feedback with a GSM beacon. If any yzargs encroach on the motel, she gives a signal both through radio communication and through a beacon. Where the keychain cannot reach, a text message will fly. In addition, the beacon immediately sends the exact coordinates of the moto. And put a kickstarter on the motor, because such a thing will drain the battery pretty well =)

Options considered

HAWK MOTORCYCLE ALARM X60 + GSM/GPS beacon .
+ price + waterproof + “there is a talking mode in which when the shock sensor is triggered, the siren does not scream, but the motorcycle asks in a human voice to move away. And only when the tilt sensor is triggered or the impact on the shock sensor is as strong as possible, the piezo siren is turned on with full removal of the brains. Accordingly, you can only report alarms via tilt sensor via SMS” ©Andrey Andsah + the kit already includes a siren, immobilizer, volume sensor + you can attach a GSM beacon/tracker - Keeloq dynamic coding algorithm. Protection against hacking by a code grabber is not guaranteed (unlike dialog algorithms). On the other hand, this signaling device is quite rare in Russia... - the current consumption is quite high: the signaling device itself consumes only 1.2 mA, but the beacon consumes about 40 mA in active mode. Price: ~2600 rubles from offsite with delivery to Moscow + lighthouse. HAWK MOTORCYCLE ALARM WITH GPS/GPS TRACKER – a tracker was attached to the HAWK X60. The difference in price with a regular Hawk is 6200 rubles. According to Andrey Andsah, this beacon on dealextreme.com costs 1,500 rubles. Price: ~8850 from offsite with delivery to Moscow time.

M+S LEGOS 2 ALARM SYSTEM + GSM beacon The LEGOS series is the descendants of the discontinued Meta DEF.COM 3 (KTM Alarm System) from MetaSystems. + waterproof + relatively compact control unit (100x66x20mm) + easy installation + the kit already includes a siren; + you can attach a GSM beacon/tracker and a bunch of all sorts of goodies from M+S (like a siren with the ability to play your own audio files. Fill it with Bieber and the thief will die from a sound attack :-D) - dynamic encoding algorithm, no protection against hacking by a code grabber guaranteed - the current consumption is quite high: the signaling itself consumes only 1.8 mA, but the beacon consumes about 40 mA in active mode. - installation is too simple, and therefore removal - price Price: 5400 rubles from louis.de + beacon

M+S LEGOS 4 ALARM SYSTEM – thicker (130x65x37mm) and more expensive M+S LEGOS 2 ALARM SYSTEM with an immobilizer. Price: 6700 rubles from louis.de + lighthouse

SPY 5000m (analogue - BERET Moto 2, CD-MT166 and 100,500 other Chinese clones). On one forum I found some interesting information about this company:

In 2007, the MBA group of companies introduced its brand “SKY” to the Russian auto electronics market. ... After the appearance of the first SKY brand, as is customary in China, duplicates immediately appeared - Spy...

+ price (about $130 with delivery);
+ current consumption <10mA according to the manufacturer; + moisture protection; + remote antenna; + there is an adjustment of the sensitivity of the remote volume sensor; the sensitivity of the shock sensor (in the block) is adjusted from the remote control - 3 positions. + The kit already includes a siren, a volume sensor and 2 key fobs with an LCD display; - the stated range of 5000m is complete nonsense, in reality the communication range is much shorter (maximum 1000m) - dynamic coding algorithm, protection against hacking by a code grabber is not guaranteed Price: $130 with delivery from ebay = ~4500r. As the nameless comrade wasserfall suggested to me in the comments, you can get it from aliexpress.com for $70 (~2200 rubles) with free shipping =) StarLine Moto V62 + interactive encoding algorithm; + current consumption is only 8 mA in security mode (as there is no volume sensor in the drain); + you can check the battery charge from home; + compact control unit (75x63x15mm) + you can connect a bunch of goodies, including a GSM tracker. + easy installation; - despite the seemingly small current consumption, in fact the battery with the alarm on lasts a week - poor water resistance (corrected with a rubber glove with silica gel). The unit is sealed everywhere except the connector. Therefore, it must be placed with the connector down and in a place where dirt will not be blown into it and condensation will not drain - installation is too simple, and therefore removal - “The most hectic adjustment system, with these long and short presses (if the key fob could be suffocated, it would It would have killed me 10 times already)” ©Vitaly Vatson - judging by the reviews, it’s almost the most buggy alarm. True, its buggyness greatly depends on the straightness of the installer’s hands;) Price: 5950 rubles from the dealer + siren

Gorilla 8017 Motorcycle Alarm + waterproof + remote antenna + backup battery in the case + includes a siren, shock sensor, tilt sensor and network voltage sensor + shock sensor sensitivity adjustment: 7 positions - current consumption?? - the encryption algorithm is dynamic, not interactive - the control unit is quite thick (90mm x 65mm x 45mm) - external limit switches cannot be connected - candy bar and built-in siren Price: $205 with delivery from ebay = ~6200r

Scorpio SR-i900 RFID + waterproof + algorithm, although dynamic, but not widespread Keelog + relatively compact control unit (100mm x 70mm x 22.5mm). Starline and Pandora are thinner, but they have an external siren) + backup battery in the case + RFID tag + ease of use and installation, you can buy a pigtail of wires for your moto. + no Starline glitches, RFID works great, there is a package with excellent volumetric sensors that are triggered by proximity - candy bar - current consumption? - the encryption algorithm is dynamic, not interactive - a fairly quiet built-in siren, which can die, and connecting an external one is extremely problematic Price: ~320$ with delivery from ebay = ~10600 RUR

Scorpio rLiNK SR-i1100 GPS/GPRS/RFID Tracking System is essentially a Scorpio SR-i900 + tracker. Price: ~570$ with delivery from ebay = ~17200rub

Pandora DXL 4200 + interactive encoding algorithm; + compact control unit (93mm x 55.5mm x 16mm) + there is an economical mode in which the alarm will always be with the GSM module turned off, and will turn on only when an alarm is triggered, to notify the owner of the danger... but then it will be impossible to call it, to take any action. + notification about critical battery level; + RFID tag + remote engine start, turning on/off locks and using other functions using a mobile phone - complex installation - current consumption is about 20mA (according to Vadim vadopo, this is “3-4 days in our realities”) - “RFID tags based on pandect they have one bad glitch - they may not be caught at a distance of 20 centimeters." They say that this glitch has been fixed in the new tags. In any case, there is manual arming/unlocking via the clutch handle or telephone. - no special mobile application, unlike Scorpio rLiNK SR-i1100 or car Pandora. You have to communicate by dialing the subscriber and then typing combinations of numbers in tone mode. Price: 6300 RUR from the dealer + siren

Pandora DXL 4400 is essentially a Pandora DXL 4200 with an immobilizer included, a CAN bus driver and a cute key fob a la a watch. The old Pandora received a new label with arming and disarming buttons. Another difference from the previous model is the ability to work with the Pandora NAV-03 wireless GPS\GLONASS receiver, which determines the coordinates of the moto upon request. Price: 9970 rubles at the office. dealer in Moscow

The GSM Moto cube is a cheap analogue of Pandora with Keelog, to which you can connect a hell of a lot of different sensors. + price + very compact unit (65x45x22mm) + waterproof + the unit has a GSM/GPS tracker and you can track the location of the moto in the Cube-online system + notification of a critical battery charge level; + remote engine start, enable/disable locks and use of other functions using a mobile phone + unlimited number of connected sensors + unique system of protection against jamming of the GSM signal O_O - current consumption 20 mA in standby mode - Keelog instead of a dialogue algorithm - no special. mobile application Price: main unit with GSM tracker RUB 3,099 + siren + remote sensors + key fobs

Magnum Elite MH-822 is a Ukrainian GSM car alarm system that some pilots installed on their motorcycles. The top models (840, 880) even have a special Android mobile application for controlling this very alarm. + price + current consumption of about 18 mA + remote GSM antenna + Magnum MSS double dynamic code + notification of critical battery charge level; + remote control using a mobile phone + the kit includes a siren, shock sensor and temperature sensor - complex installation, since the alarm was originally designed for cars - waterproof - dimensions of the unit Price: 1100 hryvnia ~ 4200 rubles + tilt sensor + delivery from Kyiv to Moscow

STaRLink eBike – top Israeli alarm tracker + waterproof case included + compactness (92x65x28mm) + lowest current consumption (3-10mA, depending on mode) of GSM alarms + backup battery. True, in active mode (GSM+GPS on) with the ignition on, it still draws 20-30mA. + automatic activation of “sleep mode” (~3.5 mA) with independent exit from it based on one of the events, such as movement/tilt/impact and turning on the ignition. As in Pandora, the GSM module is disabled in sleep mode (there is also GPS). + notification about critical battery level; + remote control using a mobile phone + RFID tag + the unit has a GSM/GPS tracker and you can track the location of the mooch in the Wialon system - the encryption algorithm is dynamic - no special. mobile application Price: 8483 RUR from the dealer + siren

Satellite alarm ARKAN Moto is the only satellite motorcycle alarm in Russia. Unfortunately, I did not find reviews from real owners of this alarm. Either it is not very popular, or people install it and don’t get fired =) + the independent Arkan radio channel cannot be jammed, and then you can use it to find a stolen motorbike (if the alarm is not physically removed) + miniature unit (exact dimensions are not indicated =() + there is a built-in the monoblock system has a rechargeable battery; + the kit includes a GSM tracker and you can track the location of the moto in On-line mode + RFID tag + the kit already includes a siren, an immobilizer, a volume sensor and a tracker with autonomous power supply - current consumption??? - for every sneeze they will call from the monitoring center - an independent radio channel operates only within the range of radio antennas installed by the operator (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod) - costs like a cast iron bridge =((( Price: 30,000 rubles + subscription fee (about 10,000 rubles/ year)

There are 14 alarms in the review, but there’s still nothing to choose from =\ So far I haven’t ordered anything - I’m choosing between Hawk, Pandora and Starlink (they have the most beautiful keychains;)) Perhaps the collective mind of the BP will suggest an even more interesting model of the alarm ?

Sensors are the eyes and ears of the security system

Each of these systems makes sense only when it can respond to intrusion, violation of the integrity of doors, windows, walls, and the presence of movement in the protected area. And for this you need sensors, of which there are several. The most expensive and not the most reliable is an ultrasonic sensor. It detects the intruder quite accurately and precisely, but only if there is no interference. And no one can guarantee this. In addition, such sensors are quite expensive and difficult to install and configure.

The magnetic sensor is the most popular, simple and reliable. It consists of a magnet placed on a door or window, and a reed switch, which, when in contact with the magnet, is in a closed state. As soon as the magnet leaves the reed switch's visibility range, the reed switch opens, sending a signal to the warning system. There are also infrared motion sensors. If the integrity of the IR beam is violated, the system is triggered. Such sensors have a high percentage of false activations, since they can react to any movement or vibration. Sometimes you can find vibration sensors that react to the presence of vibration when an attempt is made to destroy a gate, door or wall.

The simplest door opening sensor can be a cheap design - this is a group of contacts attached to the door or door hinges. When the doors are opened at least halfway, the contacts close, the GSM system is activated and the owner receives a call on his mobile phone. The most effective way, of course, is to install not one, but several sensors, connecting them using a special GSM controller, shown in the photo below.

Connecting an alarm to the central locking system with a negative and positive pulse

In this case, when a minus is applied to a pair of lock wires, they close or open. Finding such wires is relatively easy using a probe (lamp). You should alternately close the wiring that comes out of the car doors on the driver’s side. As soon as the right pair of wires is found (the door opens or closes), the problem can be considered solved.

In those cases where it was not possible to find the wires, you will have to “dig” into the central locking unit. You will need to find a special relay in it that is responsible for closing/opening the doors, and then solder the security system wiring into it.

Working with a lock controlled by a “plus” pulse is similar to the scheme described above. Only the required pair of wires in this case, as you yourself understand, will have a plus polarity. In other words, positive wires should come from the alarm.

The connection diagrams for the voiced types of central locking with a built-in relay will therefore be as follows:

• “Negative” pulse: NC (normally closed) contacts are not needed, NR (normally open) contacts are connected to the “minus”, common contacts go to the control wires.
• “Positive” impulse: open contacts are connected to positive, closed contacts are not used, common ones, as in the previous version, are connected to the found control wiring.

Operating principle of GSM alarm

The operating principle of a GSM system for a home or garage is simple and clear. Any mobile phone that has already served its purpose will be used as an active system. Our task is to force him to call the owner when the sensor is triggered, but for this it is necessary that the balance on the card installed in the alarm phone is positive, and the phone itself is in the operating area of ​​the mobile operator.

In order to assemble a GSM alarm with your own hands, you do not need any special knowledge or complex tools. Anyone who has held a soldering iron at least once in their life can assemble such a system. Here is a list of basic tools and accessories for assembling a mobile phone alarm:

• an old but working mobile phone;
• reed switch and magnet, which will act as a door opening sensor;
• soldering iron and soldering kit - solder, rosin, flux;
• ordinary household switch;
• phone charger;
• electrical tape, multimeter, wires.

Do-it-yourself security alarm for the garage: 2 manufacturing methods

Making your own garage alarm will ensure the safety of the premises. The success of this project depends on how well you comply with the requirements that the security system must meet. Among the most common options are a system with a siren and a telephone alarm.

How to make a garage alarm with your own hands, and what tools will you need? To maximize the security of your property in the garage, you should find out in advance how an attacker can get into the garage.

Additionally, we recommend reading the article by our specialist, which is devoted to the current issue of how to buy a garage.

Methods for intruders to enter the garage

A thief is able to get into the garage using the following methods.

1. Cutting off the hinges or the padlock itself. The popularity of this method is due to the fact that it is the least noisy and as simple as possible. You can not only cut the padlock, but also use large wire cutters, a sledgehammer or a classic crowbar.
2. Undermining is extremely rare, but is still used, so attackers need to block the passage by concreting the floor and fixing the walls so that they cannot be lifted with a jack.
3. Creating a hole is allowed if the garage is metal. In this case, the principle of opening a tin can applies, and among the tools used are a classic grinder, hydraulic shears or an autogen. Sometimes the metal structure can simply be bent.
4. Using master keys or paper clips to open a lock, selecting keys. To be on the safe side, it is best to avoid installing a rack and pinion lock as it is too simple. There should be two locks.
5. Penetration through the roof is possible if it is jacked up or broken, especially if there is a corresponding projection above the walls. Car theft in this case is doubtful, but you may lose valuable property.
6. Brickwork break. The speed of hacking in this case will depend on the quality of the bricks. In some cases, a small scrap will be enough. This method is often used to break into a neighboring garage if nothing worthwhile was stolen from the first one.

In fact, there are even more possible methods of hacking, so installing an alarm system is a mandatory measure. Comprehensive protection, involving the installation of floor, wall, roof, and vibration sensors, is an ideal option. It would not be superfluous to install warning sensors about the opening of gates or doors, or movement inside the garage.

Despite the abundance of ready-made models on the modern security systems market, an alarm system for a garage can be made independently. To do this, you need to know what requirements the finished device must meet.

The alarm must meet the following criteria:

• the siren should be as loud as possible to scare away even the bravest thief;
• It is necessary to hang a lamp at the entrance, which will indicate the presence of security at the facility;
• if the garage is located in a remote place, it should be difficult to disarm the security alarm;
• the telephone notification function will be appropriate and effective if there are no failures in the system and the finished alarm system is reliable. Otherwise, you will run to fight the attackers at every false signal;
• if the box is unheated, the alarm system must demonstrate stable operation in low temperature conditions;
• Be sure to understand the electricity, otherwise you will not be able to install either a lamp or a loud siren.

DIY alarm with siren

A garage alarm with a siren works according to the following principle: motion sensors detect a break-in, after which they immediately transmit a signal to the siren, and it is activated. A sound alert sounds and the attacker flees in panic.

Tools and materials

For work you will need the following materials and tools:

• motion sensor (it should not confuse you, since it is sold in any electrical appliance store);
• electrical wiring (give preference to wires made of copper; in this case, you should not skimp on quality);
• insulating tubes for electrical wiring;
• siren.

Step-by-step production

The algorithm of actions is as follows.

1. You need to start by opening the motion sensor. Remove the spherical element and remove the board, which is secured in most cases with two metal latches. One of them should be bent.
2. At the next step, take care of connecting the power and relay coil to the sensor. The standard relay must be replaced with a winding. Terminals must be used to connect the power supply and siren.
3. Next up is the switch. The place for it should be as inconspicuous as possible. No one should know about it except you.
4. Install the siren outside in an inaccessible area.
5. Configure the sensor if you have selected a modern model. First of all, you need to program the sensitivity level and duration of operation.
6. Check the functionality of the device. If everything is in order, you can consider that at this stage the production of a garage alarm with siren is completed.

Mobile phone alarm

Using a simple cell phone to make an alarm is also a great option. This will be an autonomous GSM system that will not depend on the availability of electricity. Even a lack of power will not interfere with its proper operation, which significantly increases the level of safety. The only thing you need is basic knowledge in the field of radio engineering.

Operating principle

Detection of intrusion into a secure garage triggers an automatic call to the security service or to any other specified number. On your part, the main task will be to program a call to the desired number. Make sure that your mobile phone is kept in an inaccessible and discreet place. Also, do not forget that it should always have enough charge.

The response scheme is as follows: after an unauthorized opening of the garage, the pre-installed contacts on the canopies are opened. Try to install them so that they are visually invisible. If thieves notice the contacts, it will be enough to simply cut them and there will be no call.

The advantage of this method is the minimal financial investment, since the cheapest phone with buttons, even a used one, will do. It is enough for him to simply be a worker.

How to assemble an alarm from a phone

First you need to make changes to the design of your old phone. Small, but they are needed. To start dialing the host's number, as a rule, a standard green key is used. The required number is entered and with each subsequent press of the call button, a call will be received from the owner’s phone. The button will be activated by closing the contacts. To do this, just remove the keyboard from the phone and solder two wires to the contacts of the call button, as shown in the photo.

In fact, the system is already operational. All that remains is to hide the door opening sensor, run a wire from it to the mobile phone, to those two contacts on the call key. The phone itself is installed in an inconspicuous place, it is also advisable to hide the wires, and connect the power supply, phone charger to the network. The beauty of a simple system is that it will not lose functionality even in the absence of current in the network - the battery of a mobile phone can withstand quite a long time without recharging.

Such a system, of course, also has its disadvantages. The fact is that it takes a few seconds to operate, that is, exactly the time that a mobile phone needs to make a call. This drawback cannot be called critical, therefore, in principle, the system is fully operational and can be used for a home, a summer house, a garage, as the main one or as an additional GSM system that duplicates an autonomous one already installed.

We hope that the alarm, assembled with your own hands from a mobile phone, will not disturb the owners too often, and its undoubted advantage can be considered the price and unconditional efficiency. Happy work!

DIY garage alarm - installation instructions!

A garage will become 100% protected from car thieves only if a security system is installed in it. Even boxes located in areas under centralized security cannot be called reliable.

After all, security companies employ real people who often make mistakes and fail to fulfill their responsibilities. In such cases, car thieves simply break open the garage door and steal the car with impunity.

DIY garage alarm

To prevent theft, the garage should be equipped with an alarm system that would notify of a detected break-in attempt.

There are quite a lot of such alarms today, but the cost of most of them is justified only when protecting expensive objects.

If we are talking about a private garage, then it is better to take up the tools and make a homemade alarm system. How to do this and what is required will be discussed in this article.

Security system with siren warning

Security system with siren warning

The principle of operation of such a system is extremely simple: in the event of a break-in, the sensors transmit a signal to the siren, which, in turn, emits a sound signal.

What will be required at work

1. Motion Sensor.
   These are sold in hardware stores along with lamps and boilers. Motion Sensor
2. Wiring.
3. Insulating tubes for her.
4. Siren.
   Siren autonomous

Manufacturing technology

Step one. The motion sensor is opened and its spherical element is removed.

Step two. Then the board is removed. Usually it is held on by two metal latches - one of them should be bent.

Step three. The sensor is connected to power and a relay coil.

Important! The winding will replace the standard relay located in the black box.

Special terminals are used to connect the power supply and siren.

Step four. The system switch is installed in some secret place that no one except the owner of the car will know about. The siren is taken outside and installed in an inaccessible place.

That's the whole algorithm for installing an alarm in the garage.

Settings

Setting is the final stage of installation, which is resorted to if the design of the sensor allows it. Sensors can be given two parameters at once:

• trigger sensitivity;
• duration of work.

Both parameters are set according to the need and functionality of the sensor. After this, all that remains is to think through your actions in the event of a break-in (if you do not react to the siren in any way, then such an alarm will be of little use).

Cell phone security system

Garage alarm

You can also assemble a simple alarm system from an old mobile phone (it is called a GSM alarm system). You will need a few more elements that are fairly easy to obtain. The main advantage of such a system is its autonomy from the mains - operation will continue even after the power is turned off.

Here's what you'll need to make:

• soldering iron;
• multimeter;
• wires (telephone and copper);
• cell phone (any kind, but not touchscreen);
• one key switch;
• two iron clips;
• stationery knife;
• insulating tape;
• Super glue;
• magnet;
• minimal knowledge of radio engineering.

How the system works

Figuratively speaking, a GSM alarm is a modernized cell phone that will make a call to the desired number if someone breaks into the garage in the absence of the owner.

GSM alarm

The main idea of ​​the system is this: it is necessary to ensure that the phone calls the last number dialed from it at the moment the gate opens. The phone must be securely hidden and constantly be charged. If thieves break the lock and open the gate, the contacts on the awnings, invisible from the outside, will open and initiate a call - a call will be sent to the garage owner's phone.

It is typical that in the manufacture of such alarms you can use the oldest and cheapest telephone models. The main thing is that they work.

One “but” that is always there

If a thief enters a garage with such an alarm, he will be able to quickly detect and deactivate it. The described system takes a few seconds to contact the owner’s phone, and if the gate/door is closed quickly, the call will simply be dropped. Don't forget about this.

The call has arrived - what next?

If desired, the GSM alarm can be configured so that in the event of a break-in, a call is made to the police or to the security console. For such cases, a task force will visit the site.

If desired, the GSM alarm can be configured so that in the event of a break-in, a call is made to the police or to the security console

The safety of the car depends on how quickly people react, so the choice of a security agency should be taken seriously. All companies can be divided into two types:

• government;
• private.

It is completely unclear which of them to trust more. Statistics come to the rescue: in recent years, the effectiveness of private security has decreased significantly, which is why more and more people prefer to entrust the security of their property to private companies.

- Garage security. GSM alarm

But even here there are some nuances.

So, before drawing up an agreement with an agency, you should inquire about its reputation among former or current clients, and also inquire about the availability of a certificate for the provision of such services. All this is just pre-contractual preparation, and more attention should be paid to the contract itself, in particular to the clause on installation and maintenance of the security system.

Such an agreement must contain the following points:

• organization of a command post regime using special equipment, departure of a task force;
• financial liability for damage caused (with a clearly fixed amount);
• the amount of the monthly fee for services;
• procedure for removing/accepting a protected object, other aspects of security organization.

Criterias of choice

What you need to pay attention to when purchasing a complex:

1. The design of the system can be monoblock or spaced. The first option is more convenient in terms of installation; such alarms are compact and are usually mounted in the engine compartment. To ensure higher reliability, it is better to use a distributed signal. All components of the security system are installed in different places both in the cabin and under the hood. This makes the system more efficient and makes the theft process much more difficult.
2. Number of security zones. The set of “alarms” includes sensors that record impacts on the hood, door locks, luggage compartment, engine compartment and other areas. The more security zones, the more reliable the complex will be. Budget models usually have no more than five zones. In expensive devices their number will be from six to eight. Modern systems have more than nine security zones. The complex protects not only the doors, but also the ignition switch, handbrake, monitors the voltage of the on-board network, etc. If configured correctly, the “alarm” can control the position of the brake pedal, speed controller, acceleration, tilt sensor, etc.
3. A type of control code. The static encryption method is considered the most outdated and vulnerable to criminals. Dynamic code is always changing, making it difficult for criminals to intercept it. Although reliable, this password cannot guarantee maximum machine security. The most reliable in this regard is dialog code. The transmission of impulses between the pager and the module is carried out using several passwords, which allows the complex to accurately identify the owner of the car.
4. Radius of action. We are talking about the operating range of the pager in data transmission mode, as well as notifications. Ideally, the range of action when transmitting signals from the pager to the unit should be about one kilometer, and from the module to the remote control - up to two km. Manufacturers always indicate the range on alarm packages based on ideal conditions when data transmission is carried out in open areas without interference. But in city conditions this parameter will be significantly lower.
5. Interaction with the power unit. One of the useful options is remote engine start. Its presence allows you to warm up the internal combustion engine in the winter and save time on warming up. There are two options for remote engine start. Manual is implemented using a control panel, automatic - using a temperature controller or timer. The start-up procedure is carried out at a time interval specified by the car owner, or when the air temperature drops to that specified by the user.
6. Additional functions. The more options a complex has, the more convenient its setup and use will be. If you plan to use the alarm only to close the doors and activate the alarm mode, then you can ignore this nuance.
7. Number of sensors. The more controllers included in the package, the more reliable the machine’s protection will be. All “signals” include shock sensors. The volume controller allows you to respond to changes that occur around the device. If an attacker manages to get into the car, the sensor will detect the movement and warn the car owner about it. The security complex can be equipped with external volume controllers that monitor the situation around the car body. The tilt sensor will detect an attempt to move the vehicle from one place to another. The temperature controller responds to changes in the temperature inside the car.
8. Availability of additional equipment. We will discuss this point briefly, since alarms without feedback are usually not equipped with additional modules. Using a GSM device, you can use your phone as a pager and control it with a signal. The GPS module allows you to track the coordinates of the vehicle. If there is a CAN module, the security system can be connected to the CAN bus to minimize interference with the standard wiring when connecting the system.

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Advantages and disadvantages

Like any alarm system, feedback alarm system has both advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages and disadvantages inherent in car alarms with feedback are described below.

As for the benefits:

1. allow the owner to constantly monitor the condition of his car at a sufficiently large distance, receiving all the information on a special device - a module or key fob, since the car should not be in sight or audibility;
2. have several options for transmitting encoded data: dynamic and interactive encoding - more affordable financially, mobile communications - more reliable security systems, which, however, are more expensive;
3. the ability to install additional options - remote engine start, interior heating, calling a car and others.

As for the disadvantages:

• oddly enough, the key fob can be called the weak point of the entire system, since it runs on a battery and if you forget to charge it, then at the most inopportune moment you can simply be left without communication with the car;
• systems with dynamic and interactive encoding have one common drawback - a limited range of action. And even if a company indicates a figure of 1000 or 2000 meters, then it means ideal conditions without interference. In fact, the average distance for data transmission is 500 m;
• the cost of high-quality feedback alarms often requires large financial investments, and even if you choose one of the budget models presented in 2020, you will still need to pay extra for its installation or equipment, if desired, with additional options.

Glass break sensors

At this stage, you have to make a choice between reliability and aesthetic design. When you select the first property, the appearance of the window can change significantly. After installing the sensitive device, a transparent mesh will appear on the glass, which can be seen if you look closely.

If the solid surface of the glass is damaged, the sensor transmits a signal to the control unit, which will instantly begin performing all of the above possible actions. In order not to spoil the appearance of the surface with the mesh, new internal audio detectors are used for installation, which are directed to the windows. Such devices are characterized by unmistakable discrimination between the sound of breaking glass and any other objects.

With satellite connection

Car alarms with satellite communications are equipped with GPS and GSM modules, which periodically send information about the coordinates of the vehicle to the dispatcher. To ensure high reliability, two communication channels are used. The GSM module allows you to communicate the car’s coordinates by sending an SMS message to the owner’s mobile number.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of alarms with satellite communication are:

• increased reliability of protection;
• the ability to control the location of the vehicle;
• the presence of a function to remotely stop the engine in case of vehicle theft.

The disadvantages of the complexes are:

1. High cost of security systems and their installation. Additionally, the car owner will have to regularly pay for subscription services.
2. Inability to operate satellite communications in underground parking lots and parking lots.
3. Installation of the complex is carried out exclusively by qualified specialists. Errors made during installation may affect the safety of the vehicle.