simply uses keypad for 4 digit code entry,which gives 60 seconds delay for exit before its armed, and 30 seconds delay on entry through the main door.Entry through any other door sets off the alarm imeadiatly.Ive had it for 5 years and its always worked well enough for me.the presence of an actual alarm bell box on the wall outside the house seems to be more of a deterent than the actual alarm because almost nobody takes the slightest notice if an alarm actualy goes off.