Re: Alarms Systems with Internet Access: What Are the Benefits?

[Robert L Bass <sales@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> What features or advantages are possible by connecting
> an alarm system to a computer with full time internet
> access.

Following are a few features of Internet connectivity sometimes requested by my
customers.  Many of these can also be accomplished without an Internet
connection but some folks prefer using the web.

1.  Email alerts of alarm, trouble and maintenance signals.  Obviously, email
notification of an alarm condition is not intended as a substitute for
professional monitoring services.  Some people like having it as an additional
channel though.

2.  The ability to check system status, arm or disarm one's system over the WWW.
If there's a problem it can be handy being able to determine from afar the
precise nature and location of the problem.  Arming (for example, if you or a
workman forget to do so) the system by remote control is a common request.  The
ability to disarm the security system via an online connection might be handy
but it can also be risky.  Give careful consideration to the risk vs benefit
ratio before enabling this feature.

3.  The ability to communicate 2-way with personnel on premises.  2-Way audio
monitoring via telephone connection has been around for years.  Some people like
it.  Others don't.  Developments in VoIP will soon enable a homeowner or even a
professional monitoring facility to listen and talk back to a protected premises
over a digital connection without tying up the regular telephone line and
without waiting for the dial-up, ring and response protocol.

4.  Home Automation functionality.  Some of the newer systems, such as the ELK
M1G allow the user to view and set temperature, control lighting, operate lawn
sprinklers, fill the hot tub, etc., via an Internet connection.  Just about
anything that can be controlled by a switch or a serial connection can be
monitored and/or operated through these alarm & home automation systems.

Which of these capabilities are important and how much of this should be done
over the Internet?  That's a personal decision that only the end user can
answer.

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Regards,
Robert L Bass

Bass Burglar Alarms
The Online DIY Store
http://www.BassBurglarAlarms.com

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Never underestimate the power of very stupid people in large groups.