Description
In this video, Mike Haldas, co-founder of CCTV Camera Pros, walks you through a hands-on project to build your own wireless panic button using Arduino and the NodeMCU ESP8266 board. This device is perfect for anyone that wants a wireless panic button for the self monitored security system.
This project was inspired by a real-world request from a retail store owner. The owner wanted his employees to have a discreet way to alert him—using a panic button placed under the cash register—whenever suspicious activity occurred while he was away. The goal was to have a wireless system that could instantly trigger a mobile app push notification, so he could remotely check the situation in real time on his security cameras and take necessary action.
Mike Haldas explains how he selected the ESP8266 for its affordable price and built-in Wi-Fi capability, making it a great choice for wireless IoT projects. He also covers the push button wiring, configuration process, and how the device connects to your local Wi-Fi network. When the button is pressed, the system sends an HTTP POST to a Viewtron NVR (Network Video Recorder), which can then:
Send push notifications to a mobile app
Trigger immediate video surveillance recording
Events are bookmarked for easy review
Activate built-in audible alarms
Trigger external alarm outputs (like activating a connected alarm light )
The flexibility of this setup allows integration with any security camera DVR or alarm system that accepts webhook (HTTP POST) triggers—not just Viewtron NVRS. Mike Haldas even mentions how you can easily adapt the settings, either using a Wi-Fi manager for dynamic setup or by hardcoding credentials and configuration variables into the Arduino sketch.
All the source code, wiring diagrams, and setup instructions for this project are available here on GitHub. https://github.com/mikehaldas/Arduino-Alarm-Button
Whether you’re an integrator, DIYer, or someone just wanting to increase your property’s security, this project shows you how to create a wireless panic button for any self monitored alarm system.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, Mike Haldas is readily available—just reach out via the contact info provided. Don’t forget to check the video for step-by-step demonstrations and visit https://www.viewtron.com/valarm for even more resources.
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