Having the burglar alarm system's controls, its communicator (that sends signals to the monitoring station), the siren, the keypad and the power supply all in one unit leaves the system vulnerable to someone who might be able to destroy it (even if accidentally).

Since the system is likely to be located near a main exit/entry door it will only take seconds for a burglar to recognize it, and possibly destroy it with one swing of a hammer. If a burglar can do that within one minute (30 second typical entry delay + 30 second typical reporting time) the monitoring station may never get the signal. In our humble opinion, where ever possible, a professionally installed system with the main control and communicator (located in a discreet location, and not out in the open), will ensure your system has enough time to report an alarm signal. Such a configuration will ensure your equipment lasts for years to come, maximizing your return on this investment.