A way of separating the different components of your security system into groups (motion sensor, door sensor, etc.) that are attached to your alarm panel.  For example, if your front door were attached to zone 1 every time it opened the “zone 1” light on the keypad will light up.  Then, if your alarm is set off by “zone 1”, the central station will know it was the front door that caused the alarm.  Different alarm panels can accommodate different numbers of zones.

Alarm system with detectors that are connected to the panel by radio (wireless).

See Flood Detector

A type of security that uses a digital video recorder (DVR) as well as security cameras to monitor a location. Video is stored on the DVR and can be retrieved. Most video surveillance systems give the user the ability view their property over an active Internet connection allowing them to monitor the site from anywhere.

A code, usually four digits, used to arm and disarm a security system. Certain security systems allow for multiple user codes so that you can keep track of who armed or disarmed the system.

A common way to refer to a central monitoring station that has demonstrated the ability to provide monitoring service that complies with UL’s strict standards. UL requirements cover building structure, receiving and monitoring equipment, staffing issues, as well as installation and ongoing service.

A U.S. not-for-profit privately owned and operated product safety testing and certification organization. UL develops standards and test procedures for products, materials, components, assemblies, tools and equipment, chiefly dealing with product safety. UL also provides certification for alarm companies and central monitoring stations.

A signal sent from a security system control panel alerting the central station of faulty zones, devices, or low batteries. Trouble signals do not usually result in a dispatch, but instead a phone call to the client to make them aware of the trouble and arrange for a solution.

A device that detects when a preset temperature is reached or a rapid change in temperature occurs. Different from freeze sensors, temperature sensors are able to detect abnormally high temperatures as well as abnormally low temperatures.

An arming sequence of a security system that bypasses interior motion detectors. It is meant to be used when a client arms their system while at home, so that the occupants can still move throughout the alarmed premises. Only the perimeter detection (e.g. door/window contacts) and certain types of interior protection (e.g. glass break detectors) would be armed.