Locker-Security Alarm

Presented here is a simple locker security alarm that can be used to protect a locker from un authorized access. The circuit is low-cost and forms a fool-proof alarm that receives its control signal from a standard reed switch. The circuit works off a 12V DC power supply.


                                                      

                                       Fig. 1: Circuit diagram of the locker-security alarm



                             
                        Fig. 2: An actual-size, single-side PCB of the locker- security alarm

                             
                                             Fig. 3: Component layout for the PCB



Circuit and working
Fig. 1 shows the circuit diagram of the locker-security alarm. The circuit is built around quad NOR gate IC CD4001 (IC1), reed switch RS1 and transistor BC547 (T1). reed switch RS1, together with a permanent magnet, forms the sensing unit as shown in Fig. 1.


The magnet is fixed on the door of the locker and reed switch RS1 on the door-frame such that when the door closes, both of them come close to each other. Now, when switch S1 is turned on, 12V supply is extended to the circuit. Normally, when the locker is closed, the reed switch is also closed due to the presence of bar magnet, and hence the output of gate N2 of IC1 is in logic low state.

When the locker is opened, reed switch also opens and the output state changes to logic high level, enabling the bistable latch realised using gates N1 and N3. As a result, relay driver transistor T1 activates to drive the alarm. A hooter at CON3 or a buzzer at CON2 can be connected for the audio alarm. A separate power supply in case of hooter needs to be connected at CON4. Push-to-on-type switch S2 is used to reset the bistable circuit.


                                              

Working of the circuit is straightforward. When someone opens the locker door, reed switch RS1 opens and an alarm is raised. The alarm remains enabled even if the door is closed. The alarm is turned off once switch S2 is pressed.

Construction and testing
An actual-size, single-side PCB for the locker-security alarm is shown in Fig. 2 and its component layout in Fig. 3.

After assembling the circuit on PCB, enclose it in a suitable plastic case. Fix the magnet on the door and the reed switch on the door-frame. Connect the reed switch through wires to RS1 on the PCB. Connect a buzzer at CON2 or a hooter at CON3. The power supply for the hooter is connected at CON4. Finally, connect the power supply for the circuit at CON1 and the circuit is ready to use. Take care that all the connectors and switches stick out of the plastic case.

To test the circuit for proper functioning, verify various voltage levels as indicated in the test point table. 


                                        


Author :  Dinesh Rai