Building your own home security system with Arduino is an excellent way to protect your home on a budget. With some basic electronic components and a bit of programming knowledge, you can create a fully customized system tailored to your needs.
Why Build Your Own System?
Purchasing a commercial security system can cost thousands of dollars when factoring in equipment costs, installation fees and monthly monitoring charges. DIY systems are much more affordable in comparison:
- The Arduino microcontroller board itself costs less than $30.
- Basic electronic components like sensors and cameras can be bought for well under $100 total.
- There are no monthly fees - the system runs independently.
Building your own system also allows for total customization and control. You can:
- Choose the exact sensors and components that fit your needs.
- Program the logic and behaviors exactly how you want them.
- Place and configure components for optimal coverage.
- Modify and upgrade the system anytime.
Required Components
The following components are needed to construct a basic Arduino home security system:
Arduino Board
The brain of the system. An Arduino Uno or Arduino Nano will work well and cost under $10.
Sensors
Detect motion, door/window openings, etc. PIR motion sensors, magnetic door sensors and vibration sensors are commonly used.
Alarms
Buzzer modules and LED lights provide audio and visual alarms. A GSM module can send text alerts.
Cameras
Add Arduino compatible cameras or an IP webcam for capturing footage.
SD Card Module
Log detection events and store camera recordings with an SD card module.
Power Supply
A 5V USB charger or battery pack will power the system. Regulated power modules clean up the power.
Wires, Resistors, Breadboard
For connecting the components together.
Hardware Assembly
With the components acquired, next is assembling the hardware. The general process is:
- Use a breadboard to wire up the Arduino, sensors, alarms, and other modules.
- Write Arduino code to program the logic and functions.
- Once working, solder the final circuit onto a prototyping board.
- Place the completed circuit along with the power module into an enclosure.
Refer to circuit diagrams for breadboard wiring help. The full hardware assembly process deserves its own detailed guide.
Writing the Arduino Code
The Arduino code brings the system to life by controlling the logic and functions. Key things the code will handle:
- Initialize the connected hardware components - the sensors, alarms, camera, etc.
- Continuously check sensor states to detect intrusion events.
- Trigger alarms and notifications when an event occurs.
- Operate motion activated cameras to capture footage.
- Log all events and footage captured to the SD card.
The Arduino IDE is used to write the code. Many Arduino home security system examples are available for reference.
Installing the System
With the hardware built and programmed, the last step is installation. Recommendations for optimal placement:
- Position the Arduino board and breadboard in a hidden but accessible spot.
- Mount PIR motion sensors in areas with limited obstructions.
- Place door/window sensors high up for best magnetic coupling.
- Angle cameras to fully cover entryways and valuables.
Also ensure the components are powered reliably with the battery or power module.
Conclusion
Building your own Arduino based security system is an extremely rewarding DIY project. The end result is a fully customized system that protects your home with no monthly fees. With the help of this guide, you can now take on this exciting project yourself!