FREE Certified Alarm Technician Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Questions and Answers
A technician installs an alarm system, but the control panel shows that one sensor is offline. What should the technician do first?
When a sensor is offline, checking its power source and connectivity is the first logical step. It’s possible that a low battery, loose wire, or weak signal is causing the issue. This step allows the technician to identify common, simple causes before moving on to more complex troubleshooting or replacing equipment.
If a technician is tasked with installing an alarm system in a warehouse with multiple entry points, what should they prioritize?
High-security installations, like those in warehouses, require coverage at all entry points and high-risk areas to prevent unauthorized access. This comprehensive approach reduces the risk of intrusion and provides a well-rounded security setup. Installing sensors only at the main entry or a single sensor for the entire area would leave the space vulnerable.
After installation, the alarm repeatedly triggers false alarms. Which action should the technician take to diagnose the problem?
False alarms are often caused by overly sensitive sensors, which may need to be adjusted based on the environment. Adjusting sensitivity can reduce false alarms, particularly if they are caused by minor disturbances. Disabling the alarm or replacing components before testing settings would be premature.
During a service call, a technician finds that the alarm system is frequently disconnecting from the Wi-Fi. What should they try first to resolve this?
Resetting the router and moving it closer to the alarm control panel can improve signal strength and connectivity. Poor Wi-Fi signals often cause disconnection issues, and a simple reset or repositioning is an easy first step to resolve connectivity issues. Replacing the router or disconnecting other devices should only be considered if simple troubleshooting does not work.
A customer reports that their motion sensor is not detecting movement in low-light conditions. What could be the cause?
PIR (Passive Infrared) sensors detect heat from moving objects rather than relying on visible light, so low-light conditions do not affect their function. This answer helps the technician explain to the customer that the motion detection should work independently of lighting and suggests they might check for other issues if the sensor still fails.