Re: Security systems

[Raymond <Reb.barnett@xxxxxxx>]

If you are still open to the idea of a wired alarm system then you might
want to take a look at http:\\www.comfort.org.uk I've just ordered one,
so can't yet vouch for how the sales pitch reconciles with the reality
of the system, but I'm expecting quite high things from it!

Take a look at the site for more details since the info given is quite
detailed. The main advantage to the system from my point of view is that
the system is designed principally as an alarm, with home automation
added. I looked at the SK8000 and decided that it wasn't secure enough
for me to rely upon it as an alarm.

As for upgradability and integration with a home automation system,
Comfort has a built in X10 interface and the whole unit appears to be
programmable to the extent that I am planning to get it to control
lights and heating by monitoring activity on the PIRs, alarm state (home
or away) and ambient light and heat levels. The advantage being that
everything is controlled from one box and there's no unreliable
communication links or dependancy on a computer running full time.

I can let you know how I get on if you are interested - hopefully it
will turn up next week sometime...

Ray Barnett

> -----Original Message-----
> From:	paul_gordon@xxxxxxx [SMTP:paul_gordon@xxxxxxx]
> Sent:	26 February 1999 10:48
> To:	REB.Barnett@xxxxxxx
> Subject:	[ukha_d] Security systems
>
> Dear UK HA'ers..
>
> Following a recent burglary of a family friend, my wife now wants me
> to
> put in a security system (finally a HA purchase she will approve
> of!!).
> I must admit, I've been meaning to do this as well for some time, but
> have been putting it off as I wanted to make sure I installed one that
>
> will integrate with the rest of the HA system, rather than just
> putting
> in a standalone one which would then be money wasted later when I want
>
> to integrate it. (I have grand plans...)
>
> So now the time has come, and I need to choose something that I can
> put
> in as quickly as possible, with minimum disruption to existing decor,
> and that is modular, so I can minimise the up-front investment, but
> can
> add to it over time. It would seem obvious (to me anyway) that one of
> the wireless systems would best fit the bill for speed, convenience,
> least disruption, cost, and modularity. However, I've always been
> opposed to the principal of these systems because of their reliability
>
> on battery-powered sensors. In the past I have heard of systems which
> eat Duracells at the rate of several every month!
>
> In looking around though, I've seen the Hometech SK8000 system (on
> Laser's website) who's blurb states battery life of between 1 and 2
> YEARS (depending on sensor type) using Alkaline cells. - If this
> lifespan is true, then I could well be persuaded to reconsider my
> position - I reckon I could live with annual maintenance/replacement
> as
> opposed to monthly...
>
> So, My first question is: does anybody have experience of this system,
>
> good or bad, and can anyone vouch for the battery lifespan claims?
>
> Secondly, I've seen lots of good things written about the Napco Gemini
>
> stuff, but AFAIK, these are not sold/distributed by any UK dealers, so
>
> I'd have to import from the US. - can anyone cofirm/deny this?
> Additionally, can anyone give me an idea of the cost of
> purchasing/importing a Napco Gemini, and any other insights into the
> prospect/experience of buying/using one?...
>
> As always, all your help is much appreciated.
>
> Kind regards.
>
> Paul Gordon.
> Paul_gordon@xxxxxxx
>
>
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