Car alarm gsm interface. Alarm system with gsm module for car control via smartphone. Cost of GSM security systems

In a modern city with its high-rise buildings and other artificial obstacles to radio communications, conventional ones do not always work effectively.

If you are far away from the car, the key fob may not be able to detect the alarm signal received by it. In addition, many attackers have learned to silence alarms using specialized devices that fit into a small shoulder bag or suitcase.

Therefore, the optimal choice for professional vehicle protection is a GSM car alarm, which works at any distance and cannot be silenced even with the help of expensive equipment. Also, a GSM alarm system allows you to control many vehicle functions, even while in another city.

Purchasing a finished model

The best option in terms of functionality and convenience is to purchase a ready-made GSM alarm system. Manufacturers offer a variety of transport models that can control a variety of machine functions, as well as provide additional services that increase the level of safety.

The advantage of this method of alarm installation is the possibility of ordering professional installation. At the same time, you receive a guarantee that the vehicle will be protected from accidental fire or electronic failure. The only significant drawback of choosing a ready-made GSM alarm system is the high cost.

To understand which option is best suited for your car, we will rank the best GSM alarms. Not only the functions of such a device will be assessed, but also its resistance to hacking, as well as the ability to monitor the condition of the car. We recommend checking out the following high-quality models released in 2015.

Pandora 500 PRO

There is hardly a more advanced car alarm - from a world-famous manufacturer it boasts the highest degree of car protection. Its main feature is the presence of full two-way communication, which allows the owner to receive alerts about the start of an alarm mode on a phone, tablet, computer or other type of portable electronics.

Alarm Pandora 5000 PRO

The use of the dialogue coding method allows you to protect the signal from interception by most devices used by attackers. The alarm also includes a microphone installed in the car interior - it allows you to listen to everything that happens inside the vehicle or record sounds in real time.

In the maximum configuration, you can install a separate speaker or connect the car’s audio system to the control unit in order to be able to contact the criminal and convince him to leave the car in order to mitigate the punishment or resolve the situation without involving law enforcement officers.

Video review of the Pandora 5000 PRO alarm system:

An additional advantage of the alarm is the presence of a GPS module, which allows you to track the current location of the vehicle. Data can be output either to a special mobile application or to a web server interface.

You can also use the remote security service and put the car under the control of a special service, which will be most relevant for the most expensive cars. If necessary, the alarm system can be equipped with automatic start units and programmers. Due to this, it is possible to start the engine in advance, as well as turn on the air conditioning or heater in the presence of automated climate control.

Starline B94 GSM/GPS

A cheaper model, which is a compromise between the device described above and entry-level alarms. Its main feature is the presence of many sensors in the basic configuration. They monitor the position of the doors, hood, trunk lid and analyze the pressure on the driver's seat.

Alarm Starline B94 GSM/GPS

When modified by connecting additional modules, the circuit can include sensors for steering wheel position, gearshift knob, as well as engine start and interior temperature. In addition, the owner of an alarm system from Starline can also fork out for an automatic engine start unit, which will allow him to warm up the car by a certain time.

As the name suggests, the device also has a built-in GPS module that tracks the vehicle's movements. To control it, a proprietary mobile application with an intuitive interface is used.

Video review of the Starline B94 GSM/GPS alarm system:

It can create trip logs, which is especially convenient for analyzing mileage, average fuel costs and other vehicle parameters, as well as for collecting evidence in case of an accident. The alarm can also be controlled if you forgot the key fob at home - just enter a special code in the mobile application or send an SMS to a predetermined number.

Magnum МН-880-03 GSM

This model is possible in the budget class thanks to the use of many sensors and code transmission using a conversational communication method. However, its significant disadvantage is the very poor basic package, which does not include either a GPS module or a GPS module.

Alarm system Magnum MH-880

Of course, they can be installed additionally, but then the cost of the device will be comparable to a middle-class GSM alarm system. Therefore, Magnum's device is aimed primarily at drivers who need a simple and effective means of protecting their vehicle.

A key feature of the alarm system is the ability to control it using various interfaces and communication methods:

• Web server;
• Mobile app;
• SMS messages;
• Phone calls and voice alerts.

Thanks to this, you can receive information about the activation of the alarm mode and control some vehicle functions anywhere in the world. In addition, the alarm can also be connected to the remote control system.

Self-installation

To save a lot of money, you can create a simple GSM alarm system yourself, using a minimum number of tools and components. The main part of the improvised defense system will be a simple mobile phone without a touch screen - even an outdated push-button model will do.

Take a feature phone

You will also need a magnetic door opening sensor and a reed switch with two or three contacts. Of course, you can’t do without connecting wires - it’s better to choose copper cables with shielded braiding, which are characterized by a very high level of reliability and durability.

To get started, set a quick call to your number on a specific button to be able to receive timely alerts. Next, you need to disassemble the phone - just remove the front button panel from it to reveal the contacts that are triggered when pressed. The wires are connected to the call button and the desired number on the keyboard. If pressing the call button again does not stop the conversation, you will have to find a three-pin reed switch and connect one of its leads to the reset key.

Scheme for making an alarm

Now you need to add a magnetic sensor to the circuit, which will respond to unauthorized opening of the car door. It can be modified by adding a key rotation sensor in the ignition switch or a pressure sensor on the driver's seat instead of such a signaling device.

Power to the reed switch and sensor must be supplied from the mobile phone battery. To ensure continuous operation of the resulting homemade alarm, you need to take a car charger for this phone model, disassemble the 12-volt outlet and connect the wires directly to the car’s electrical system.

The result of your work will be a working GSM alarm model. When the door is opened, the reed switch will supply power to the contacts of the corresponding buttons, and the phone will make a call. The only thing that is required of you is to monitor the replenishment of your mobile phone account to ensure the possibility of unhindered calls.

In addition, once a month it is recommended to remove the mobile phone from its hidden installation location and check its technical condition. It is undesirable to give the alarm phone number to someone you know, since if information leaks, an attacker will be able to block the operation of the device by constantly dialing.

Video of the finished GSM alarm:

If you have good engineering skills, it will not be difficult for you to make a more advanced GSM alarm from your phone. To do this, you need to connect an electronic controller connected to various sensors to the buttons instead of a reed switch.

Basic controllers for creating homemade alarms can be ordered on the Internet or purchased on the radio market. If you wish, you can connect an external speaker and microphone to your mobile phone, which will allow you to establish two-way communication with the car. When creating an alarm with your own hands, everything is limited only by your imagination and technical skills.

Best protection

Today, GSM alarms are considered the best means of car protection, with the exception of expensive satellite communication systems controlled by the operator in real time.

However, even such devices are controlled - attackers purchase specialized devices that jam the GSM signal within a radius of several meters and do not allow them to send an alarm. In addition, the criminal can find out where the device's shutdown button is located, which will allow him to do so without the use of expensive electronics.

Therefore, you should not count on complete safety of the car when installing a GSM alarm. Never forget about a closed garage, guarded parking lot or parking with a video camera, which are the best complement to the most advanced security systems.

Buying a vehicle is an important process for many. And sooner or later we think about how to ensure the safe operation of our car. And a modern and reliable GPS/GSM car alarm helps with this, thanks to which constant control over the car will be ensured at any time of the day or night.

What are the specifics?

Satellite alarm is a modern device that operates on the basis of two built-in and GSM. The first is needed in order to determine the location of the car relative to the world coordinate system, since this is a global network consisting of 24 satellites in orbit. The module is supplemented with special receivers, through which communication with satellites is established. A good GPS/GSM car alarm system recognizes a large number of satellites.

Main components

Satellite signaling consists of basic and additional equipment. Of the basic components, each security system is equipped with:

• processor unit;
• interface software;
• antenna;
• sensors;
• GPS module.

Each alarm has its own design features and is programmed for a specific operating algorithm. As additional components of a satellite line, a GSM module for car alarms, an immobilizer, a listening device and

Why do you need GSM?

The GSM network is an important element of car alarms, since through this module an alarming text message is sent to the car owner’s mobile phone, which allows a timely response, for example, to an attempted theft. The alarm must be equipped with an antenna, the task of which is to establish communication with the satellite. It is installed so that there are as few obstacles as possible in the path of signal or data packet transmission.

How does the security system work?

GPS/GSM car alarm system consists of two electronic units that are mounted inside the car. The first block is needed to determine the geoposition of the car in relation to satellites, the second - to ensure communication with the driver of the car. The advantage of using it is that it is connected to the dispatch control panel, and therefore all important information will go directly to the security company. True, these services are paid.

Regardless of who the equipment manufacturer is, each system has its own characteristics and functional differences. The effectiveness of its operation is ensured by the quality of coverage of the area by a specific mobile operator. The advantage of satellite security systems is that they will provide multifunctional two-way communication between the car and the owner. All information is provided to him on his mobile phone.

Types and features

Modern GSM car alarms can be paging, backup or carry out GPS monitoring. Paging ones are the cheapest and allow you to determine the location of a vehicle from a distance. The peculiarity of GPS monitoring is the ability to determine the exact location of the car and remote control of the main car systems - ignition or engine. Elite-class alarm systems include backup ones, which not only carry out GPS monitoring, but also have a number of additional capabilities. Modern GSM car alarms are characterized by a number of advantages:

1. Large network coverage.
2. Multifunctionality.
3. Ability to track the movement of the vehicle.
4. Hidden installation.

But reviews note that satellite security lines also have disadvantages, the most important of which is the ability to read the GPS code signal. In addition, if the car is underground, it is impossible to detect the sensor signal.

Selection rules

Modern manufacturers offer a huge selection of car alarms. But experts and owners of equipment of different brands advise paying attention to a number of details when choosing:

• if there is an immobilizer, then if necessary, you can block the engine;
• built-in motion blocking systems ensure blocking of fuel supply to the engine in the event that the immobilizers are broken during operation of the power supply circuit;
• remote start is an important advantage of modern security lines;
• The GPS module is the key to ensuring that the driver’s key fob receives information about the location of the stolen car.

How to do it yourself?

Of course, there are a huge number of modern car alarm models. But not everyone has the opportunity to purchase products of one brand or another. Note that the simplest GSM car alarm can be made with your own hands from your phone.

Those who have already made similar equipment with their own hands say that the process is simple, the main thing is to select diagrams and descriptions. As components you need to prepare:

• old mobile phone with buttons;
• magnet;
• reed switch;
• wires;
• switch.

The assembly process is quite simple. First, a call to the subscriber is configured, that is, the current owner’s number for one button. Then the front panel of the phone is removed, since access is needed to the board where the contacts are connected. At this stage it is important to solder the wires correctly. So, if the functions of turning off the phone and hanging up are on one button, then one wire is soldered to the button itself, and the second to the key that will be responsible for the call. If the end call and power off buttons of the mobile device are different, then the wires are soldered to each of them.

After the circuit is completed, a magnet is placed on the door, and then the reed switch is adjusted. This one, as you can see, is easy to create. But the essence of its operation differs from the principle of operation of conventional alarm systems: when you try to open the door, the reed switch contacts close, and the phone will call the number that is programmed. Using an additional switch, the alarm can be armed or disarmed. Such a system will promptly warn the car owner about unauthorized access. In addition, the systems are inexpensive to create, almost completely autonomous, and the phone will be periodically charged.

Pandora DXL 3910

Let's look at the most popular security systems that have earned a lot of different reviews. Thus, the model attracts attention with its innovation, since GPS/GSM car alarm does not require the use of a key fob. The entire system works on the basis of tags, that is, key fobs with two buttons that do not display any information. The car alarm is controlled via a smartphone, but you can set up a GSM voice interface or install a mobile application.

Thanks to the flexibility of configuration, the system can easily be adapted to the requirements of a specific owner. And, as users note, Pandora DXL 3910 will look harmonious in the standard system of any car. Among the shortcomings, users note that the system is too complex, it has a huge number of settings, which are very difficult to understand even for experienced owners of automotive electronics.

StarLine: B64 Dialog CAN and D94 2CAN GSM/GPS Slave

The GSM module for car alarm StarLine is a modern device that provides complete control over the car. This brand offers a wide selection of security lines with a wide variety of functionality. Thus, the StarLine B64 Dialog CAN model, in addition to security functions, allows you to control car service functions - interior lighting, temperature control in it and many other important details.

The device comes with two key fobs - one has an LCD display and the other is simple and compact, but both provide two-way communication with the central unit at a distance of up to 2 km. Fans of compact but powerful systems note that this car alarm model is distinguished by its affordable price and additional capabilities. One of the disadvantages is the lack of engine auto-start.

The GSM GPS car alarm, according to many users, is the best in this series. This is a whole security system, the capabilities of which are unlimited. The device is controlled via a smartphone, and the alarm can detect a car with great accuracy if it is stolen. It is no coincidence that this model has been repeatedly recognized as the most reliable in terms of protection against scanning and hacking. The advantage of the device is the three-axis shock and tilt sensor, which is supplied in the kit. It is triggered whenever you try to move the car. Among the disadvantages, users note the difficulty of setting up and the expensive cost, but in terms of performance and reliability, this car alarm is worthy of attention.

StarLine M 30 (Messenger GPS)

Starline Messenger GSM/GPS modules are devices that allow you to control your car's security system. The StarLine series includes a huge number of such modules. So, StarLine M21 is a module that is controlled by a phone and allows you to determine the coordinates of the car. The unique feature of the module is the ability to work with any GSM communication operators. The car owner can give commands in several ways:

• through a mobile application on iOS/Android platforms;
• sending a text message with a command code;
• by telephone call to the security system number.

This new product can also be used as an independent security system, since the body has three linear outputs through which the module can be connected to those located on the door, hood and trunk. This module is powerful - you will be in touch with your car, no matter where you are.

Pantera Cl-550

There are very different reviews about this GSM car alarm, but among the advantages are the affordable price of the device and the ease of setting it up. For a middle-class security system, Pantera Cl-550 can be considered a reliable anti-theft device that emits a siren when triggered. The model is equipped with simple but quite reliable sensors, so the car will be protected from break-ins. The advantage of the model is the ability to program and configure, which is quite rare for this price category. Some users note that the level of the security system is not very high.

Jaguar Ez-ultra

This is a one-way GPS/GSM car alarm, which, at a low price, attracts attention with effective protection against interference and speed. The system can be configured to use separate radio channels, especially if additional service functions are required. Among the advantages of the model, users note the expanded control of autostart and the ability to arm the alarm when the engine is idling. According to users, the Jaguar Ez-ultra is easy to install and configure, but it is not easy to hack.

Tomahawk 7.1

This GPS/GSM car alarm system attracts attention with its silent arming feature, which is not available in all premium models. An indisputable bonus of the system can be considered non-volatile memory, which, even when the power is turned off, will save all data about the state of the device. A dual dialogue code with a modern coding algorithm guarantees a highly secure system. But the model also has a drawback - there are no additional channels so that you can control external devices.

Alligator C-500

Among the economical but high-quality car alarms, this one can be noted. It is triggered at a distance of 2.5 km, has six independent security zones, is equipped with intelligent auto-start and has the function of controlling additional devices. In addition, the two-way GSM module for car alarms "Alligator" has received many good reviews. Installing the line in the car is simple and convenient; you don’t even need to go to a service center. Users say that the missing immobilizer can be filled with an additional module.

Thus, in order for the security system on your car to be effective and reliable, choose a model in which the driver notification rate is higher. It is for this reason that GSM systems are in high demand among those who want to protect their car from theft and unauthorized entry.

You can be sure that a GSM alarm system is worth installing on your car. But, before we begin to describe the advantages of this truly wonderful type of car alarm, I would still like to urge car owners to be vigilant. You must be aware that in its pure form, a GSM car alarm will not fulfill its function - car safety.

Reliability of GSM signaling

Especially when it comes to prestigious, expensive models that are specially ordered for theft. And they order not from street punks, but from professional car thieves using professional equipment. Let's face it and tell ourselves what we already know - any electronic system can be hacked by an electronic system.

Therefore, reading about the currently unique capabilities of GSM car alarms, it doesn’t hurt to think about how to create a comprehensive car security system: electronics + mechanical anti-theft devices. Well, now let's move on to the car.

What is a GSM car alarm?

This is, in fact, the same computer that is designed not only to protect your car, but also to monitor its location in real time. In the event of an attack, the alarm transmits information about the violation to the owner and to the security console. Control is carried out using a mobile phone with GPRS functions. And others are probably not being released now.

The distance for control is unlimited, whether you are in a neighboring house or in Tahiti, it does not matter. In addition, the gsm system will completely secure any mechanical actions with your car, without your knowledge, such as loading a car onto a vehicle for the purpose of theft.

How does GSM alarm work?

Traditionally, the system consists of a central unit and several (optional) security sensors. The kit includes a remote control key fob and the car alarm is no different from the classic GSM car alarm except for the principle of operation. Security sensors monitor the perimeter around the car and the interior of the cabin, trunk and hood.

Classification of GSM alarms

• Price segment. T.N. “budget” - in principle, are a classic form of car alarm. The more expensive ones have all the standard equipment, plus autonomous power supply, and a GPS receiver for monitoring.
• Method of informing the owner. These are SMS notifications and auto-dialing with voice guidance. Plus combined, i.e. both types of notifications.
• The method of programming a GSM car alarm is the holy of holies. It is this that affects the quality and reliability of the system. Programming with SMS messages is still common, but is gradually becoming a thing of the past. The bulk of gsm alarms are programmed and controlled by a DTMF signal (tone dialing via voice menu)
• Method of powering the system. Usually this is a 12V source. More advanced systems have an autonomous power system, which turns on in case of force majeure. Almost all GSM car alarms are equipped with a function to notify the owner about a power problem.

Without a doubt, gsm alarm systems today have no equal in mass use. Thanks to the use of modern technologies, it not only performs security functions, but also greatly facilitates the functionality of the car and the comfort of operation for the car owner.

• Gsm alarm can act as a listening device inside a car
• In addition to tracking the location using a GPS module, the system monitors the speed and fuel level, and conducts video surveillance.
• With certain settings of the tilt/motion sensors, the alarm will warn the owner about an attempt to remove the wheels or load the car onto the platform.
• Remote control allows you to remotely start the engine for warming up. Those. All the delights that were previously installed separately are now in the hands of a GSM car alarm system.

With all the positive characteristics, of course, there is also a certain negative. In particular, GSM signaling is very dependent on the electronic signals existing in the city and interference in the form of reinforced concrete structures.

However, today GSM alarm system is the most optimal option for ensuring the safety of your car, both in price and in its properties and capabilities.

Good luck, car lovers.

The issue of protecting your vehicle from theft and vandalism always remains relevant. In the recent past, all possible devices (mechanical interlocks) and alarm simulators (“beepers”) were used. A modern security system is a more advanced product that can not only provide a high degree of security, but also allow the owner to “always have his finger on the pulse.”

GSM car alarm (wired, wireless) copes well with both the first and second tasks (it protects the car and notifies about everything).

Design features

The set of elements responsible for the possibility of using a mobile phone as a link between the gsm car alarm and the owner of the vehicle (regardless of the selected operator and tariff) includes three main components, namely:

1. GSM module. In this case, it plays the role of a transmitting device, limited not by the cellular tariff, but by the operator’s coverage area. This device (gsm module for alarm) allows you to receive information about changes in the state of your car directly to your own mobile communication device. It can also send an alarm signal to the security console (if initially the responsibility for the safety of the car was assigned to the security company and the system was connected to its control panel). An alarm system with a gsm module can be linked to several phone numbers, to which SMS notifications or alarm calls will be received (different tariffs are not a problem).
2. GSM controller. This device is designed to monitor the operation of the communication channel between the owner and his movable property, the Gsm controller is also responsible for providing information regarding the state of the system, allows you to eliminate errors in the operation of control and information SMS, and develop effective control scenarios. Their simplest versions are made on the basis of software released under the Arduino brand. It’s quite possible to make simple devices using Andruino yourself (more on that below).
3. Digital relays. They are recognized to provide additional protection.

Accepted classification

Modern car alarms, which necessarily include a gsm module, a set of digital relays (sensors) and a gsm controller, are conventionally divided into several groups, depending on the criterion adopted as a basis, in particular:

1. Method of informing. A GSM alarm system can notify the car owner about an attempted theft in one of three possible ways:
   • via SMS notifications(only SMS notifications are received on the phone);
   • through a call (they work on the principle of automatic dialing, the tariff does not matter);
   • combined option(information is conveyed to the owner simultaneously via SMS and call).
2. System power method. There are two possible variations on the theme, namely:
   • Gsm alarm system wired(operates from a 12 V source, the interaction of system elements is achieved thanks to connecting wires);
   • Gsm wireless alarm(powered by an autonomous power source, the coordinated operation of a security complex of this type is the result of using the properties of a stable radio signal).
3. Price range. The car enthusiast has three options:
   • economy class (alarm system with auto start and a set of other standard modes +
     gsm controller and module);
   • middle class (alarm with auto start, standard content and additional modes + gsm controller and module + simple GPS system);
   • premium class (wireless multifunctional alarm + GSM, GPS + additional features, for example, with video surveillance).
     In addition to the above groups, GSM alarms can also be classified into others: depending on the manufacturer (domestic companies, foreign manufacturing companies, including Chinese, American and others) and brand (alarm Pandora, Starline, Tomahawk and others).

Top: 5 best

The buyer is offered a variety of security products to choose from. There are enough worthy ones. Thus, the Tomahawk 9020 alarm system (detailed operating instructions, simple installation and programming, optimal set of options) is good for everyone, but has one drawback: the absence of a GSM module. Fortunately, the car enthusiast has a chance to find an equally attractive anti-theft protection that is free of this flaw. Everything is available: gsm alarm with a video camera, with the ability to control the amount of fuel in the tank and the speed of movement.

So, the top 5 best GSM alarms based on the results of 2016:

• (made in South Korea, it is unique in that it can protect and control the condition of several cars at once, the mobile payment tariff will not change due to this fact);
• Pandora Deluxe 3700 (made in Russia, consistently among the top five best sellers);
• Starline B94 (made in Russia, its proprietary mobile application can easily be called one of the most intuitive interfaces);
• Pandora 500 PRO (made in Russia, another always in demand product, released by Alarm-Trade based on high-tech developments);
• Magnum МН-880-03 (made in Ukraine, an excellent option, with one caveat: this model does not provide a GPS module and autostart mode, but their additional installation and configuration will quickly solve the problem).

In fact, it all depends on the desires and capabilities of the car owner (what he wants: a car alarm with a camera, with or without auto-start mode; what he can afford: economy, business or VIP class).

Do it yourself

Is it possible to design a GSM alarm system yourself? This event cannot be called an hour's work, but it is possible to implement the idea in a day, provided you have the necessary elements (telephone, toggle switch, board on the Arduino platform, other components).

If you order a board with an arduino controller from China, you will be pleased with the price; if you order it from aliexpress, you may not notice your costs at all (by the way, on the same resource you can find more budget analogues of arduino, and mobile devices that can be bought for pennies).

There is one very interesting option for the car enthusiast to consider, the step-by-step implementation of which is presented below. Assembling and installing such useful functionality as a Gsm alarm with your own hands is quite possible. The main thing is to strictly adhere to the following algorithm of actions:

1. Placement of system elements. Ideally, everything should be like this:
   • main unit (arduino controller) and toggle switch under the instrument panel;
   • sensors (magnets) on the doors, hood, trunk;
   • control unit (telephone) away from the radio and antenna.
2. Power off. Remove the terminals from the battery.
3. Connecting components. We connect the sensors to the controller, the controller to the phone, and plug the toggle switch into the power circuit (now, when it is shorted to minus, this circuit will start working).
4. Linking to a phone number. We enter your phone into the phone’s memory and connect the wire connecting it to the main unit to the button selected as a “speed dial”.
5. Connection to on-board network. We return the battery terminals to their original place (25 seconds after turning on the toggle switch, the car will be armed, during this time you need to get out of the car, such an alarm is also turned off by switching the toggle switch).

To summarize the above...

To sum it up, we can draw the following important conclusions:

1. Convenient and reliable.
   GSM alarms are really convenient and reliable (it is impossible to miss alarm signals - the phone is always at hand, you can respond to an SMS or call at any time - the phone is already in your hands);
2. Simple and complex.
   Just for the car owner. This is due to the accessible installation, a simple setup algorithm, and comfortable management and control over the system (fortunately, detailed instructions are included in the package).
   Difficult for an attacker. He has practically no chance of success of the planned event (quick response, no less prompt notification of the owner of the vehicle, do not contribute to the accomplishment of the thief’s plans);
3. Expensive or cheap.

The choice is up to the car enthusiast. He can become the happy owner of a ready-to-use GSM alarm system belonging to one of the price categories (economy, business, premium) or prefer to assemble a security system on his own. It's not the price that matters, it's the end result that matters.

What does a car owner need? Just peace of mind for the safety of your car. A GSM alarm can give him confidence in the future. She copes with her tasks 110%!

The emergence and widespread use of wireless GSM communications led to a massive transition, first of car, and a little later of home, garage and country house security alarms, from sirens to a full-fledged remote control system for the security loop. Things especially accelerated after the reduction in communication tariffs and the reduction in the cost of GSM modules. In some cases, for example, for a garage or a summer house, it is almost impossible to build an effective alarm system with the ability to instantly receive a signal about an opening.

Advantages and disadvantages of alarm systems for cottages based on a GSM module

The development of mobile communication technologies has made it possible to obtain a very compact and economical device in the form of a GSM communication module with a control unit and a sensor system. Ideally, a wireless alarm system provides the following functions:

• Notify the owners of the dacha when one of the sensors is triggered. In some models, the alarm system sends a signal with a specific code, which allows us to judge the reasons for the alarm;
• Arm, disarm and check the current state of the alarm using Push messages, listen to sounds inside the cottage;
• Control the numbers and sequence of sending SMS information about the activation of an alarm element;
• Take a photo and send the frame to the programmed address;
• Control powerful electrical appliances using commands from a mobile phone. You can turn on/off irrigation, heating, ventilation, or any of the devices connected to the power module.

For your information! The first three functions are provided to all, even the most budget alarm models with a GSM module; the presence of more complex functions is determined by the characteristics of the specific system for the dacha.

In the first alarm models, manufacturers tried to combine the functions of autonomous and wireless alarms. That is, when triggered, the system turned on the siren and sent a message to the mobile phone. But in practice it turned out that the sound often interferes with catching a thief in the country, so newer versions have a function to turn off the howler.

A dacha outside the city may be located in a “blind” zone or an area with poor GSM signal reception, so there is a certain risk of losing control of the alarm system. In some cases, an external antenna is installed, but this only encourages criminals to commit illegal actions in the country.

In addition, not all GSM modules tolerate “work” at the dacha equally well in conditions of low temperatures or extreme heat. The most vulnerable are batteries, which need to be regularly charged and insulated indoors.

The most interesting alarm models for dachas

In addition to the general functions listed above, many models have their own interesting specific features, the presence of which makes them most suitable for use in the country.

GSM alarm system “Sentry” for a summer residence

The development of the IPRO company is well known for its good quality of elaboration of the alarm logic. To the above-mentioned features of Sentinel 4, you can add several specific functions, especially suitable for use in the country:

1. The ability to control several powerful electrical appliances, for example, an irrigation pump or a ventilation system.
2. The function of connecting and de-energizing the power supply in the garden. This option becomes especially valuable in case of strong winds or problems with electricity in the dacha premises.
3. Possibility of simulating the presence of owners in the dacha premises. According to a programmed sequence, the lights in the rooms, in the yard or at the entrance to the room can be turned on and off.

In addition, the GSM alarm system can issue four types of text messages to a mobile phone when a certain type of security module sensor is triggered. If necessary, you can remotely turn on the microphone and listen to the situation in the cottage.

Alarm system with GSM “Dacha 01”

“TAVR Dacha”, models 01 and 02, are deservedly considered one of the leaders in the line of domestic and foreign alarm systems. And we must admit, such an assessment corresponds to the capabilities and functions of an alarm system with a GSM module.

Firstly, the most significant advantage, in comparison with other models for dachas, is the two-module layout of the “TAVR Dacha”. This means that the control unit with a processor and sensors is made in the form of a separate panel, which is necessarily located inside the dacha room. The GSM signal reception and transmission module is made in the form of a separate box with autonomous power supply, which allows you to separate both units over a distance exceeding 200 m.

In fact, this principle of the “TAVR Dacha” layout makes it possible to solve most of the problems with “shadowing” and signal jamming, which are so feared by most users of wireless alarms with a GSM module.

Secondly, setup and access to service and programmable functions is possible only with the use of special magnetic key fobs. They are also used to remove or activate the alarm system. This means that any unauthorized persons entering the dacha premises where the control panel is located, or even intruders who entered by hacking, will not be able to change the settings of the wireless alarm system with a GSM module.

Thirdly, the autonomous GSM alarm system “TAVR” Dacha is designed for very economical consumption of electricity; the average duration of operation from four finger elements, according to the manufacturer, should be at least one year. Truly economical is very important when protecting remote objects to which there is no constant and regular access.

For your information! To ensure the operation of the Sentinel, the manufacturer recommends using an acid battery.

Most sensors are located inside the control panel housing, so certain requirements must be met when installing an alarm. Do not hang the panel on a heated or supercooled surface or wall with a high level of vibration. This, first of all, negatively affects the condition of batteries and electronic components that are not designed to withstand condensation.

In addition, the GSM model “Dacha 01” and 02 allows for fairly serious current temperature control. When the air temperature in the room is more than sixty degrees, the module generates and sends a message about a critical situation.

GSM alarm system "Guardian"

If your dacha is a full-fledged country house with a significant territory and a large number of objects that could be of interest to a criminal element, you will need a more powerful and advanced alarm system.

The most correct solution would be to install additional video or photo cameras that record events in the protected area in real time. In this case, you can install a full-fledged security complex or limit yourself to installing the “Guardian” GSM alarm module.

The Guardian's capabilities significantly exceed previous models. For example, the “Guardian S200 MMS” option is capable of working simultaneously with 16 wireless motion sensors and taking up to 20 high-quality photographs. In this case, a series of images can be received on a mobile phone and the degree of threat can be determined without visiting the site.

With proper use of the camera, you can monitor the situation in a very dense area control mode. In some cases, this method allows one to identify signs of an impending threat long before it appears at the dacha. For example, to record vehicles or people of marginalized species.

Wireless alarms are well suited for most cottages, provided that there is a stable power supply in the room for a full day. Otherwise, the module will bombard you with messages about an emergency situation and switch to an economical operating mode. With a complete blackout, the device will be able to operate on a standard 1000 mAh battery for no more than 8 hours.

This type of GSM signaling deserves close attention due to its high resistance to information load. Most events related to setting and disarming alarms, making changes to the program, and the emergence of threats are duplicated by the Guard microprocessor via text messages to several addresses, including emails.