‎Entry Sensor with Two Positions | SimpliSafe Support Home
 
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Thursday, May 27th, 2021 6:42 PM

Entry Sensor with Two Positions

I have an entry sensor on a bedroom window. Sometimes I want the window partially open. I understand how to install an extra magnet for the partially open position. But how do I move the window between the two positions without triggering an alert?

Community Admin

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5.7K Messages

3 years ago

Hi jeremyblm,

Glad to hear that you've figured out that particular trick, using two different magnets! To answer the question - assuming that your system is currently armed, you'll want to disarm it before changing window positions.
So for example if your system is armed in Home Mode, and you have a window partially opened, then both closing and partially opening the window will trigger the alarm. The only way to prevent that is to disarm the system, close the window, then arm again.

- Johnny M.
SimpliSafe Home Security

6 Messages

Thanks. For a future enhancement, you might consider adding a delay for an individual device before triggering an alert, to enable 2 positions for an entry sensor.

1.3K Messages

The concern with this is how would the system know it was you intentionally opening the window vs. a criminal trying to spoof the system? In such a scenario they could open the door/window and quick close it again (or put a magnet next to the sensor) to stop the alarm from triggering.

245 Messages

3 years ago

Another magnet.  Keep it nearby.
Hold it over/near the sensor where the stationary magnet is.
Move the window until the other magnet is aligned.
Take away the magnet you are holding.

Community Admin

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5.7K Messages

3 years ago

simplistuckon, that's rather ingenious. Yes, if you keep the spare magnet on the Entry Sensor, it won't trigger as you move it. Just have to make sure you don't accidentally slip or drop the magnet!

- Johnny M.
SimpliSafe Home Security

Community Admin

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5.7K Messages

3 years ago

whoaru99,

Also true. But then they'd have to know that there was a sensor there, and exactly where it was on the window - and then the'd have to be confident that the magnet can reach that far through the window pane.

But of course, this is also why we suggest having layers of security. If an intruder could somehow manage to get through an Entry Sensor, a Motion Sensor in that room can still pick them up.

- Johnny M.
SimpliSafe Home Security

1.3K Messages

If there would be any appreciable delay the intruder would be able to see the sensor once they are inside and apply a magnet directly. It's not like they're microscopic.

I understand there are some what ifs but  along that line for concern over any extra delay in triggering an alarm (not just starting the delay countdown) is why many people choose instant trigger or have their delays shortened over the minimum settings allowed through the app or web.
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