An autodialer alarm is an electrical device that usually has a push button transmitter which an individual may use to summon assistance to their location. These portable transmitters send a signal to the alarm unit. The transmitter is designed to be worn around the neck, on your wrist or clipped onto your clothing. Some brands offer additional methods of setting off the alarm such as a push button on the alarm unit itself, wall buttons or pull cords. Some alarms will go off automatically if they detect smoke, an intruder, a low room temperature or if the individual hasn't moved in a while.

Once the button has been pressed, the alarm unit will automatically contact a relative or friend or a special control center. With most alarm systems it is possible for the person who answers the call to hear and talk to the individual, although this is not necessary as the alarm has been raised by just pushing the button.

When the device transmits to a control center, personal information of the owner will automatically appear on a screen in front of the operator. They will usually try to speak to the individual, often via an intercom channel that is opened up when the alarm is activated, and if the individual needs help or they cannot get a reply, then they will arrange for someone to visit.

An alarm which dials directly through to a relative's or friend's house will usually be programmed to dial more than one number, to increase the chances of finding someone at home.

An autodialer alarm is different from an alarm autodialer, a part of the wall alarms.