Problems With Dakota Alert
By Laura Gianino
The Dakota Alert security system is a wireless alarm that alerts you to discover any presence on your property. The alert system works through the collaboration of a receiver and transmitter that uses passive infrared (PIR) to detect any moving object at your location. The transmitter detects the person, animal, or vehicle and then sense a signal to the receiver. Like all electronics, occasionally the Dakota Alert will have problems with its detection system. Find out more about problems with the Dakota Alert and possible solutions.
False Alarms
Occasionally, your Dakota Alert may have a false notification where the alarm activates when there is no visible sign of movement. This may be caused because the Dakota alert is pointing at a road in the distance, false signals have been created by the sun's rays, or the transmitter is detecting animals. First, try to relocate the transmitter to a different position. If the problem still occurs, you may want to try setting the filter jumper to "On." Then, decrease the range jumper so that the transmitter sensitivity is lowered. Highest range is 80 feet, medium is 50 feet, and low is 30 feet.
Failure To Alert
Occasionally the Dakota Alert may have a detection problem. If your Dakota Alert transmitter is failing to alert you to a problem, you should first check to make sure the battery is not dead. (The transmitter will sound an alert in the case of a low battery.) The need to change the battery in the transmitter could be the cause of detection problems in the Dakota Alert. If the battery is good and you are still having problems, make sure that the transmitter and receiver have the same code. Try changing the height and distance of the transmitter from the driveway, or move the transmitter closer to the receiver. The maximum range between the transmitter and receiver is approximately 600 feet, but may be less in the case of obstructions (such as hills or trees). Make sure that the transmitter is away from large metal objects that may interfere with the Dakota Alert's radio signal.
Defective System
In the case of a defective system that cannot be fixed by the methods listed above, Dakota Alert has a one-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty guarantees the product to be free of any defects in material and workmanship, though it does not cover damage from an accident, abuse of the product, natural disaster or improper use. Defective systems may be returned to Dakota Alert at 32556 E. Main Street, PO Box 130, Elk Point, SD, 57025. Include a note which describes the problem with the Dakota Alert, your name and return address, and your sales receipt for the product. If covered, the Dakota Alert will be repaired of its problem or replaced at no cost to you. If you are not covered under warranty, you may still return the product. Dakota Alert will notify you of any charges before repairs.
Technical Support
Dakota Alert may be contacted for technical support at 605-356-2772 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday through Friday (CST).
Writer Bio
Laura Gianino works at a publishing company in New York City. Her writing has appeared on eHow, LIVESTRONG, Synonym and Global Post.