How Do Laser Security Systems Work?

When choosing a home security system, there are so many different types of technology that it's tricky to figure out where to start. Most systems utilize various security measures, and a common component is motion detection. Laser-activated motion sensors are an option. But how do laser security systems work, and when would they be the right choice for helping keep your family and home safe? Read on for all you need to know about this security feature. 

How Does Laser Technology Work as Part of a Security System?

When you think of laser security, the famous scenes from Mission Impossible or Entrapment might come to mind. But laser technology won’t involve burglars contorting to avoid touching the red beams of light. Instead, these sophisticated motion detectors are invisible to the naked eye. 

Laser security systems typically work by projecting a beam of invisible light onto a series of mirrors. The beam then returns back to the sensor. If anything interrupts the beam of light from returning to the sensor, this triggers an alarm.

The sensors connect with a control panel via a wired or wireless battery-operated connection. These days, as with a lot of technology, wireless is the most common option available, and this often allows you to use it as part of a system controlled remotely via an app.

Simple systems will use an individual laser tripwire, and more sophisticated options create a laser fence that runs around the perimeter of a room or property.

Pros and Cons of Laser Security

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Laser security systems won’t be for everyone. Consider the pros and cons of laser security systems to help you decide if they’re the best choice for you and your home.

Pros of Laser Security

• Covers a large area: If you want to set up security around the perimeter of a large yard, lasers work perfectly for this. And when they hook up to an alarm, it can be a major deterrent to intruders.

• Easy to install: These systems don’t tend to be too complicated to install. It’s often a DIY home security project you could tackle, depending on what other aspects you add to the system.

• Discreet: These motion detectors are small and can be easily disguised—gone are the days of big, clunky cameras set up outside your front door. Not only is this good for curb appeal, it means would-be burglars are less likely to try tampering with them.

• Accurate and sensitive: Laser motion detectors are highly sensitive, and advanced types can inform users of the size, speed, and exact location of a trigger.

• Target valuable items: If you want extra security around a prized heirloom antique, you can set up laser motion detectors around its perimeter.

Cons of Laser Security

• Not widely available: Laser motion detectors aren’t particularly widely available. Often, multi-level security systems use infrared technology if they feature motion detectors. Sometimes, laser detectors are used in isolation rather than as part of a wider smart technology security system.

• Can be pricey: Laser technology is often more expensive than infrared options, partly because of its limited availability. And, if you want multiple lasers to cover a large property perimeter, it can push the cost of installing a home security system up even more.

• Potential for nuisance alarms: Depending on the system setup and its sophistication, there is a chance that you could be bothered frequently by false alarms. Maybe when cats or wildlife travel across your yard or pets move about your home.

What to Consider When Selecting a Laser Security System

If you think a laser security system will work for you, consider the following when selecting a setup:

• Coverage: Do you just want motion detectors for one room or home entrances, or do you need an expansive system setup around multiple rooms or the perimeter of your property? Always check the maximum range the system covers.

• Installation: Is the system installation easy to DIY, or will the brand company or a home security professional near you need to get you up and running?

• Budget: A fully interactive, integrated laser security system that links to an app or another online setup to security cameras, panic alarms, and live and recorded video could set you back as much as $800 or more. You can get basic dual-beam short-range detectors for less than $100.

• Power: Do you want your system to be hardwired or battery-operated? Hardwired systems are less common, more expensive, and trickier to install, but you don’t have to worry about watching for alerts that the battery is running low.

• Compatibility: Can you integrate your laser motion detectors with a wider smart home security system, or will they only work as stand-alone devices?

• Sophistication: More sensitive laser motion detectors only alert when the object interrupting their beam is over a certain weight or height—perfect if you don’t want your kitties, canines, or visiting wildlife activating the alarm.

Are Infrared and Laser Security Systems the Same?

Infrared motion detectors are more widely available than laser varieties. While infrared and laser detectors are terms often used interchangeably, their technology differs.

Instead of beams of light, like lasers, infrared sensors use invisible electromagnetic radiation. This typically detects temperature differences between a person or other animal and their surroundings.

Is Using Laser Motion Detectors Enough?

While you can use laser motion detectors as your only security measure, they are more effective when used as part of a multi-prong system. For maximum security, consider a system offering a variety of features. Some components commonly available include security cameras, video doorbells, security lighting, and panic buttons. The combination you select depends on what works best for your home and family. Some security systems can be hooked up to other smart technology as part of your home automation.