Install and service all types of electronic security systems like the pros do (or should)! Whether you're a security professional who needs to know the latest technologies, or a homeowner who wants to make smart, money-saving decisions to protect your home and family, "The Complete Book of Electronic Security" tells you what you need to know. Bill Phillips, a world renowned security expert, has written the most comprehensive and practical guidebook available on installing, buying, selling, and troubleshooting electronic security systems.You'll find step-by-step, crystal-clear installation instructions for: intruder and fire alarm systems; access control systems; home automation systems; closed-circuit TV; and, more. Bill uses over 200 photos, drawings, and "at-a-glance tips" to make the material easy to understand. For the most complete coverage possible, he also includes: contributions from over a dozen of the world's leading security experts; practical job-finding and career-building tips; a sample certification test used in the United States and Canada Advice on starting and running an electronic security business; and, a comprehensive glossary and lists of manufacturers, suppliers, and associations. "The Complete Book of Electronic Security" contains a wealth of practical information for security officers, alarm system installers, security consultants, building contractors, locksmiths, and homeowners. It is written by a top security expert who knows what you would ask, and gives direct, easy-to-understand answers!

Average Customer Review: ( 5 customer reviews )
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To say it was superficial would be to give it too much credit. The section on installation was 3 pages long. It's chock full of fluff, nothing is covered in enough depth to be of any use.

I was hoping to find out how the pros pulled wires into walls -- what tools they used, what tricks they used, etc. NOT!

I was looking for a book that would discuss the features available in various systems and which ones were useful. NOT!

Save your money. I sent my book back, but I still had to pay the shipping both ways.

I was so disappointed!

17 of 18 found the following review helpful:

The author has written more gripping books.Jul 26, 2002
By R. Andrews
The author's similarly-titled book on locksmithing is of exceptional quality. That's what makes this book's average-ness seem so much less adequate. I didn't return the book, but could have found the same information with a few Internet searches.

I doubt this book would be of much use to someone learning electronic security, although it would probably make a great resource for a high-school student writing a report for some class or other. Perhaps I'll donate my mostly-unread copy to a local library, where it can be put to good use.

13 of 14 found the following review helpful:

An Excellent BookJul 28, 2002
By Bruce Marshall
I own Bill's other book, "The Complete Book of Locks and Locksmithing", which is the best I've seen about locksmithing. His Electronic Security book is an excellent companion book. It's easy to understand, and gives a lot of good information. The chapter on how electricity works made me understand that better than ever before. A lot of the information is basic, fundamental stuff. Over a dozen top experts contributed technical articles to the book. I highly recommend the Complete Book of Electronic Security.

1 of 1 found the following review helpful:

Title Should Be Electronic Security Business PlanMar 19, 2008
By Bill Boyd "WillB"
There is far more information (general anyway) about starting a business than about electronic security systems. Many chapters devoted to writing a resume and advertizing. Some generic info on devices and some references to ohms law. A lot of info on picking the right drill but little on picking the right volt meter. Troubleshooting, basically this was about interviewing the "client" to determine what the problem is?

1 of 2 found the following review helpful:

Best Book on the SubjectNov 20, 2005
By Bruce Locksmith
I learned a lot from the Complete Book of Electronic Security. I highly recommend it to anybody. The book's explanation of how electricity works is easy to understand.