Product Description

Smoke detectors are typically housed in a disk-shaped plastic enclosure about **0 millimeters (6 in) in diameter and *5 millimeters (1 in) thick, but the shape can vary by manufacturer or product line. Most smoke detectors work either by optical detection () or by physical process (), while others use both detection methods to increase sensitivity to smoke. Sensitive alarms can be used to detect, and thus deter, smoking in areas where it is banned such as toilets and schools. Smoke detectors in large commercial, industrial, and residential buildings are usually powered by a central fire alarm system, which is powered by the building power with a battery backup. However, in many single family detached and smaller multiple family housings, a smoke alarm is often powered only by a single disposable battery.