The Star Trek Home, Episode 3: SimpliSafe Wireless Security System
Computer: [alarm] Intruder alert! Intruder alert!
According to the crime statistics conducted by the FBI, it is estimated that a home burglary happens every 20.9 seconds in the United States. That adds up to about 172 per hour, and approximately 4,134 per day. These are startling statistics, but the good news is that we can take security measures to protect our families and our homes from these intruders.
In this episode of The Star Trek Home series, I will introduce the SimpliSafe Wireless Security System. 
What is SimpliSafe?
SimpliSafe is a 100% wireless home security system that does not require the need for a phone line, unlike traditional home security systems. SimpliSafe is easy to expand, enabling users to add more sensors anytime. The system supports up to 41 sensors, making it suitable for both small or large homes.
SimpliSafe Features
24/7 Protection and Dispatch Services that include round-the-clock live monitoring by SimpliSafe’s monitoring specialists, police dispatch for burglar alarms, fire fighter dispatch for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and courtesy call for water sensors and freezing temperature alarms.
Pay-as-you-go Monthly Plan allows users to cancel their alarm monitoring services and reactivate at any time. Users only have to pay $14.99 per month to activate their monitoring service and cancel without having to pay any termination fees.
Easy DIY Setup enables anyone to set up their SimpliSafe security system without the need for any tools or professional help. All SimpliSafe sensors come pre-programmed, batteries installed, and with adhesive strips for a hassle-free installation.
SimpliSafe Home Security App enables users to remotely manage their SimpliSafe security system, such as arm/disarm alarms, check event logs, monitor home temperatures, and check the status of their alarms from anywhere in the world. The SimpliSafe Home Security App is free and available for both iOS and Android users.
Pet-friendly Motion Detector does not detect pets that are less than 30-50 pounds so small pets can move freely around the home without triggering the alarms. For larger pets, simply place the sensors 4-5 feet off the ground so they will not be detected by the motion sensor.
How Does SimpliSafe Work?
When one of the sensors detects an intruder, the base station will be alerted.
The base station then sends a cellular signal to SimpliSafe’s 24/7 monitoring center where a security expert receives the signal and attempts to call the user before calling 911.
If the user does not cancel the alarm, the police will be dispatched to the user’s home.
Advertisement
Main components of the SimpliSafe Security System
Base Station is the “brain” of the alarm system that is responsible for sending all alarm signals to SimpliSafe’s 24/7 monitoring center when triggered. It uses cellular technology, which means that no phone line is needed. At 11″ tall and 4″ diameter, the base station is relatively small, making it easy to be hidden or placed in an obscure location so that it is not easily located by the intruder.
Keypad beeps to distract burglars when the alarm is triggered. Unlike conventional alarm systems that stop working when the keypad is destroyed by the intruder, the alarm will continue to function when the SimpliSafe keypad gets destroyed.
Motion Sensor detects motion within 30 feet and has a 90-degree field of view.
Entry Sensor is placed on doors and windows. Its function is to detect when doors or windows are opened and closed.
Other add-on components include:
Keychain Remote that enables users to arm and disarm their alarms at the push of a button. There is also a Panic button which, when pressed, will alert SimpliSafe’s Emergency Monitoring Center that immediate help is needed.
Auxiliary Siren delivers a loud, 105-decibel siren when an intruder is detected. The siren is compatible with all SimpliSafe security systems. It is weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Glassbreak Sensor triggers the alarm if an intruder smashes a window. It is able to detect the sound of shattering glass from 20 feet away.
Smoke Detector is built with photoelectric sensors that are able to detect a fire early on before it bursts into flames and will then trigger a smoke alarm. Users with an active security monitoring plan will get a call from SimpliSafe’s monitoring center and fire fighters dispatched to their homes.
Panic Button works just like the Panic button on the keychain remote. When the Panic button is pressed, the alarm will be triggered and SimpliSafe’s monitoring center will instantly call to check on the user. If the call goes unanswered, the security experts at the monitoring center will dispatch the police.
SimpliCam is an indoor security camera that can be added to any existing SimpliSafe alarm system or as a standalone security camera. The SimpliCam features 24/7 720p HD video streaming that can be viewed on the SimpliSafe Home Security app, night vision, and a 120-degree field of view. The camera is built with intelligent sensors that are able to detect the unique heat signature of humans, which enables the camera to alert the user when an unusual activity is detected and reduces the chances of getting false alarms. The SimpliCam comes with stream encryption and privacy shutter, allowing users to manage when their SimpliCam is active. In addition to the free 24/7 live streaming, users can pay $5 for 30-day cloud storage, as well as download and share clips with the police.
Freeze Sensor triggers an alarm when the temperature in the home drops below 42F. The Freeze Sensor works with any existing SimpliSafe alarm system. It does not work as a standalone or with other alarm systems from other manufacturers. The Freeze Sensor is particularly useful to prevent broken pipes in the colder months.
Water Sensor triggers an alarm when the probes on the sensor come in contact with water. The Water Sensor works with any existing SimpliSafe alarm system. It does not work as a standalone or with other alarm systems from other manufacturers.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector utilizes an electrochemical sensing technology that is able to sniff out CO at an early stage. As we all know, CO is a deadly gas that is invisible, has no taste or smell. The CO Detector has a built-in alarm, which will sound when the CO reaches to a dangerous level. Users with an active security monitoring plan will receive a call from SimpliSafe’s monitoring center and emergency responders dispatched to their homes.
Advertisements
