Re: Why Don't You Like DSC? (Addressed to those that don't.)

["Robert L. Bass" <robertlbass@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

> I find Napco not very easy to use for
> the end user, which is my primary concern.

Jim, this is not intended as a slam but I think the problem might have more
to do with teaching methods than the panel itself.  I've taught thousands of
people to use Napco systems and probably ten thousand to install their own.
Over the years I developed a teaching procedure that seems to work well.
Because Napco panels have so many features and options, don't try to teach
everything at once.  Walk the entire family through the basice -- arm,
disarm, bypass, interior on / off and panic modes.  Let each person take a
turn doing the basic maneuvers and then answer questions.  Once everyone is
comfortable with that much I move on to advanced setting *only* if they want
to know.  If not, a return visit can be scheduled after they've had time to
use the panel and study the user manual for a while.  Most clients take the
latter option.  I often get phone calls a week or two later asking how to do
this or that and that's it.

> DSC panels are easy to use, the wireless...sux, software is ok

Yes, but they've also suffered too many failed panels.  Tech support takes
forever to answer and then they always want to know who those characters
were from NJ and BC... :^)

> Ademco panels are easy to use, wireless...excellent,
> but eats batteries, software is ok

A fair percentage of my Ademco clients have bought the software.  Most find
it easy to master.

> Paradox panels are easy to use, the wireless...
> never tried it, software is ok

I haven't used Paradox wireless on my own jobs but others I know have spoken
well of it.  I sell very few Paradox panels and even fewer of their wireless
products but that's mainly because customers never ask for it.  They're not
as well-known as Ademco or even Napco in many places.

> ITI panels somewhat easy to use, wireless is great,
> but too pricey, software needs work.

On top of that, GE used to frank up way too many shipments.  I finally went
with a regional distributor and got better prices and more reliable service.
ITI hardware gives very few problems.  I even have a B&B using ITI wireless
for commercial fire and the inspector approved it on the first visit.  Not
too bad considering it was the client's first DIY job.

> Napco panels require the user manual to do
> basic things...

That's probably because you're not accustomed to them, Jim.  I almost never
need the manual to do anything with them.

> wireless...never tried it...

For my own installs I always preferred hard wired systems but I've used a
number of Napco wireless over the years.  They last a long time without any
problems, even in some tough environments, such as an unheated garage in
Hartford, CT.

> software needs work though version 5
> is a major improvement.

Agreed.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

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