Build Your Own Home Security System with Raspberry Pi

Home security systems are expensive. That’s a fact. But little do people know that the technology behind the professional looking interior and flashy lights is not as expensive as you might think. After analyzing the core problem – you want a trusty alarm that connects all the sensors and detectors together – you realize that reproducing a functioning prototype is not rocket science at all. You just need some good quality parts, a programming kit and a little bit of tech savviness and voila, you are the proud owner of a home-built alarm system.

PrivateEyePi: the next step towards DIY alarm systems

Have you ever heard of Raspberry Pi? It’s a single-board computer with a size of a credit card. It allows children and adults alike to learn programming in an easily understandable manner. Raspberry Pi can be connected to almost any system with an Ethernet or USB port. Thanks to its vast programming capabilities, only your imagination limits the possibilities. The Raspberry community came up with numerous fun or useful projects, and PrivateEyePi might be one of the most interesting one of them.

It’s a custom made Raspberry Pi software that turns the tiny computer into a security console. All you have to do is gather the basic alert components – motion sensors, door contacts, sirens, temperature sensors – set up Raspberry Pi with an available network connection, install and configure a software, and you are ready to go. A little customization is needed on the alarm accessories’ circuit board, but an in-depth tutorial about the process can be found on the website.

The biggest selling point of the PrivateEyePI homemade security system is its low price. Raspberry Pi costs between $25 and $35, while the required alarm components start from $27, but creating a more complex safety net might add to the price. Still, creating your own home defense system is not only cheaper than any of the current industrial offer, but adds a satisfying experience of self-achievement.

If you buy quality you only cry once