Re: Theft alarm for portable generator?

[Curmudgeon <ehtoya@xxxxxxxxx>]

On Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:10:42 -0700 (PDT), tourman
<robercampbell@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>On Sep 14, 1:50 pm, Curmudgeon <eht...@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>> I have a Concord Express home alarm system monitored by Vector
>> Security. They have so far been unable to help me with my question:
>>
>> I have purchased an expensive portable generator to provide power
>> during our frequent outages. The generator is stored in my garage, but
>> must be wheeled outside to the driveway when it is in use. I would
>> like to devise some sort of sensor that would trigger the alarm system
>> if the security cable is cut or the sensor is disturbed. Can you
>> suggest anything that might work? The generator will be run under
>> cover, protected from rain/snow but open on the sides for ventilation.
>> As an additional deterrent the generator will also be chained to a
>> sturdy anchor system buried 36? in the ground.
>
>RHC: Seems you could do a couple of simple things
>
>1-Make sure your chain is boron steel so it can't be easily cut. This
>type of steel chain is VERY expensive and must be matched with a lock
>of equal strength. Plan on spending $100 for a six foot length of
>chain and another $250 for a matching quality lock (remember this is
>only as good as the weakest part of the arrangement so if your post is
>mickey mouse so is the whole arrangement.....)
>
>2-You could also wire up a loop from a spare zone on your alarm panel
>with a switch on a 24 hr loop underneath one of the wheels. If it
>moves, the switch opens and the alarm goes off. However, make sure you
>put this on an "on off" bypass switch in the garage so you can close
>the "always armed" closed loop when you need to position or move the
>generator. Wouldn't hurt to have a second siren in the garage so it
>adds a little emphasis to your alarm signal..
>
>3-A visible sign outside stating " premises monitored by video
>cameras" might help even though it's only a ruse...
>
>What the hell....options 2 and three are easy and cheap

These sound like good suggestions - thanks for the tips!