Abstract: An alarm system for signaling and reporting the occurrence of an unauthorized entry into a defined area, such as into a closed automobile. The alarm system includes means for generating vocal speech signals that are used to: (1) draw attention to the fact that an unauthorized entry event has been sensed, and (2) provide reports to indicate the status of the system and to alert the owner of the system that a prior unauthorized event was detected. At installation of the system, several alarm options and features are displayed as easy-to-understand menus on a programming unit used by an installer. The installer can thus readily select which of several available alarm options and features are desired, thereby allowing the system to be easily suited for a particular application. Further, during use of the system, the user of the system can also select various operating modes and report options, thereby providing flexibility in how the system is used.