1. Introduction and Overview
The Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor is designed to enhance your home security system by detecting the distinct sound of breaking glass. This sensor provides an additional layer of protection for windows and glass doors, alerting you to potential intrusion attempts. It integrates seamlessly with your existing Ring Alarm system.
The sensor utilizes advanced AI technology to accurately identify the sound frequencies associated with various types of breaking glass, aiming to minimize false alarms while ensuring reliable detection.
Image: Two Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensors, ready for installation.
2. Package Contents
Your Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor (2-pack) package typically includes:
- Two (2) Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensors
- Six (6) AA alkaline batteries (three per sensor)
- Mounting hardware (screws and anchors)
- Instruction manual (this document)
3. Setup and Installation
The Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor requires a Ring Alarm or Ring Alarm Pro system to function. Ensure your Ring Alarm Base Station is set up and connected before proceeding.
3.1. Pairing the Sensor
- Open the Ring app on your mobile device.
- Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top left corner.
- Select 'Set Up a Device'.
- Choose 'Security Devices' and then 'Sensors'.
- Scan the QR code on the back of your Glass Break Sensor or manually enter the 5-digit PIN.
- Follow the in-app instructions to complete the pairing process. This includes pulling the battery tab to activate the sensor.
3.2. Mounting the Sensor
For optimal performance, consider the following guidelines when mounting your sensor:
- Placement: Position the sensor within 25 feet (7.6 meters) of the glass you wish to monitor. The sensor detects sound, so it does not need to be directly on the glass.
- Height: Mount the sensor approximately 7 feet (2.1 meters) off the ground for best coverage.
- Line of Sight: Ensure a clear line of sight between the sensor and the glass, if possible, to avoid obstructions that could muffle sound.
- Avoid Noise Sources: Do not place the sensor near sources of loud, sudden noises (e.g., speakers, air vents, noisy appliances) that could cause false alarms.
To mount:
- Choose a suitable location on a wall or ceiling.
- Use the included screws and anchors to secure the mounting bracket.
- Attach the sensor to the mounting bracket by twisting it into place.
Image: Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor positioned on a shelf.
Image: Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor mounted on a wall.
4. Operating Instructions
The Glass Break Sensor operates in conjunction with your Ring Alarm system's modes.
4.1. Alarm Modes
- Disarmed Mode: When your Ring Alarm is disarmed, the Glass Break Sensor will send a mobile alert to your Ring app if it detects glass shattering. It will not trigger the siren or notify professional monitoring (if subscribed). To enable this functionality, you may need to disable 'Battery Saver Mode' in the sensor's settings within the Ring app.
- Home Mode: When your Ring Alarm is armed in Home Mode, the Glass Break Sensor will trigger the alarm siren and send mobile alerts if it detects glass shattering. If you have professional monitoring, they will also be notified.
- Away Mode: When your Ring Alarm is armed in Away Mode, the Glass Break Sensor will trigger the alarm siren and send mobile alerts if it detects glass shattering. If you have professional monitoring, they will also be notified.
You can customize which modes the sensor is active in through the Ring app settings for each individual sensor.
4.2. Detection Technology
The sensor uses acoustic analysis to identify the specific sound patterns of breaking glass. This technology helps differentiate between actual glass breakage and other household noises, reducing the likelihood of false alarms.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Battery Replacement
The Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor is powered by three (3) AA alkaline batteries. The expected battery life is up to 3 years, but this can vary based on usage, environment, and device settings.
You will receive a low battery notification in the Ring app when it's time to replace the batteries.
- Twist the sensor counter-clockwise to remove it from its mounting bracket.
- Open the battery compartment.
- Remove the old AA alkaline batteries.
- Insert three new AA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
- Close the battery compartment and reattach the sensor to its mounting bracket by twisting clockwise.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1. False Alarms
If your sensor is triggering false alarms, consider the following:
- Placement: Ensure the sensor is not too close to sources of loud, sudden noises such as televisions, stereos, or areas where items are frequently dropped (e.g., kitchens with hard floors).
- Sensitivity: Check the sensor's sensitivity settings in the Ring app. Adjusting the sensitivity may help reduce false triggers.
- Environmental Factors: Strong vibrations or very loud noises from outside the home might occasionally trigger the sensor. Review the sensor's event history in the app to identify patterns.
6.2. Sensor Not Detecting Glass Breakage
If the sensor is not detecting glass breakage:
- Range: Verify the sensor is within 25 feet of the glass it is intended to protect.
- Obstructions: Ensure there are no significant obstructions (e.g., heavy curtains, large furniture) between the sensor and the glass that could block sound.
- Battery Level: Check the battery status in the Ring app. Low batteries can affect performance.
- Connectivity: Confirm the sensor is still connected to your Ring Alarm Base Station. If not, try re-pairing it.
6.3. Connectivity Issues
If the sensor is offline or experiencing connectivity problems:
- Distance: The sensor uses Z-Wave connectivity. Ensure it is within the 250-foot open-air, line-of-sight range of your Ring Alarm Base Station. Walls and other structures can reduce this range.
- Interference: Other wireless devices might cause interference. Try repositioning the sensor or the Base Station if possible.
- Re-pair: If issues persist, remove the sensor from the Ring app and then re-add it following the pairing instructions.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Diameter: 3.78 inches (9.6 cm); Height: 0.96 inches (2.45 cm) |
| Weight | 5.8 oz (163g) |
| Operating Temperature | 32°F to 120°F (0°C to 49°C) |
| Power | (3) AA alkaline batteries (included) |
| Battery Life | Up to 3 years (dependent on device settings, usage, environment) |
| Connectivity | Z-Wave (250-foot range to Base Station open air, line of sight) |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1. Warranty Information
The Ring Alarm Glass Break Sensor comes with a 1-year limited warranty. Please refer to the official Ring website or your purchase documentation for full warranty terms and conditions.
8.2. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to report issues, please visit the official Ring support website or contact Ring customer service. Support contact details can typically be found on the Ring website or within the Ring app.
