This page walks through one way to set up System 1 using common, consumer-grade devices.
You don’t need to follow it exactly.
The goal is understanding the pattern, not copying a diagram.
Before You Start
Before building anything:
- Read the System 1 guide
- Decide which doors matter
- Talk with your loved one
Technology comes last.
Basic Components
At minimum, you’ll need:
- One door sensor per exterior door
- One speaker capable of voice alerts
- One light or smart plug for visual alerting
All components should be easy to replace.
Nighttime Window
This system only runs during a defined nighttime window.
Typical examples:
- 10:00pm to 6:00am
- Or when a “sleep mode” is active
Daytime alerts create noise. Noise gets ignored.
Alert Behavior
When a door opens at night:
- The system announces the door name
- A light turns on and flashes
- The alert repeats until canceled
Repetition matters. One alert is easy to miss.
Canceling Alerts
Alerts must be easy to cancel.
Common approaches:
- A simple voice command
- A physical button near the bedroom
- Turning the alert light off
If canceling feels annoying, the system will be bypassed.
Test It
Test the system when you’re awake.
- Open each door
- Confirm the correct announcement
- Confirm the light behavior
Fix mistakes now. Nighttime is not for debugging.
When This Isn’t Enough
If alerts are frequent or overwhelming, this system may need:
- Additional context
- Reduced sensitivity
- A different approach altogether
More alerts is not the same as better safety.