What Does Auxiliary Mean on an Alarm Panel?

Alarm systems protect your home or place of business from security breaches. The larger systems feature multiple components that sit in different areas or rooms, scanning those areas for potential threats. Larger alarms might feature "auxiliary" on the panel, which indicates it connects to a public system.

Private homes and public businesses typically feature one of two alarms: a security alarm or a fire alarm. A security alarm protects the building from unwanted intruders. The system often features a security panel with access codes that give an individual access to the inside. If someone tries to override the system, break through the code or enter different codes, the system blocks access. The system also records unauthorized access to blocked or restricted areas. A fire alarm records heat changes and smoke in a room, which might indicate a potential fire.

An auxiliary system connects the alarm system in the building to a larger public system. For example, if you have a fire alarm with an auxiliary system, the alarm connects to the fire department in that area or a communications center for your area's fire department. When something trips the alarm, it sends a message to the other system and brings help. The system must be in working order and not disrupt any other connection on the auxiliary system.

An auxiliary alarm system might serve two purposes in one area. For instance, when you place an auxiliary system on the outer edge of your property or on a box near the entrance to your property, it functions on a municipal level. The alarm lets others in the area seek help in case of an emergency. If a fire occurs on your street, a citizen can use the auxiliary box and get help from the fire department. The system will not register the fire because it maintains only your home or property, but it gives others the option to use the system.

An auxiliary system benefits your home and anyone living on the property. The device functions as a home protection system by monitoring the area and noting any potential problems. If you find yourself incapacitated by smoke or fire, the system still sends out a warning alarm to others that respond immediately. In the case of a security system, it makes you aware of potential problems by way of alarms before you realize that a problem exists.