Preface

I have been in the security industry for over 25 years, in one capacity or another, and there is something I would like to share with you.

One of the best kept secrets of the security and access control industry is just how simple the monitoring hardware actually is. It is the software that runs on the monitoring hardware that makes it seem cool.

The original BeagleBone, or the new BeagleBone Black, has all the computing power that you need to build yourself an extremely sophisticated access control, alarm panel, home automation, and network-intrusion-detection system.

All for less than a year's worth of monitoring charges from your local alarm company!

While we are on the topic of monitored alarm systems, there is no such thing as a FREE alarm system. It is like a free lunch. Where I come from, I can buy and install a basic home alarm system for less than $500.00. But if you sign up for a "free" system, monthly monitoring fees will be between $20 and $25 per month. So, in just over a year and a half, I have paid for my "free" alarm system. Most alarm companies will sign you for a three-year contract, but for (36 x $25) $900, you can build yourself one heck of an alarm system, plus one for your buddy too!

Don't get me wrong, monitored alarm systems have their place, for example, your elderly mother or your convenience store in a bad part of the town. There is no substitute for a live human on the other end of the line.

That said, if you are reading this, you are probably a builder or a hobbyist with all the skills required to do it yourself.

If you have a friend or a relative who is a good carpenter, you have got it made. They will be an indispensible part of your team when it comes to installation.

This book will show you how to build and program your own high-tech alarm and home automation system. By the end of the book, you will have a basic knowledge of how alarm systems work and you will have built and tested your own basic alarm system.

The only limit will be your imagination.

So, let's get started!