smoke detectors are housed in plastic enclosures, typically shaped like a disk about in diameter and thick, but shape and size vary. smoke can be detected either optically (photoelectric) or by physical process (ionization); detectors may use either, or both, methods. sensitive alarms can be used to detect, and thus deter, smoking in areas where it is banned. 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. domestic smoke detectors range from individual battery-powered units, to several interlinked mains-powered units with battery backup; with these interlinked units, if any unit detects smoke, all trigger even if household power has gone out.