Re: Are there any convenient alarm systems?

[steveeisner@xxxxxxxxx]

I guess I had two problems:

One is that when the ADT guy visited, he didn't bring a modern panel
(it was an Ademco unit if that matters.)  And the key fobs were huge
and he wanted $95 each for them.  Not that I'm against paying for
convenience, but my car alarm came with "freebies" thrown in, why does
a home alarm system charge 200% markup on them?

Second is that searching on the net finds so many of the
same-ol-same-ol installers that it's really hard to find a local
installer with expertise.  It seems that words like "alarm system" and
"home security" are so valuable that all the national players have
bought all the ad space.  If anyone has a recommendation in Seattle I'd
appreciate the lead!

I've found one guy who's coming by tomorrow and I hope he'll be able to
offer some good options.  I'm just surprised that there aren't more
"smarthome + alarm" packages available.  All the security tech seems
like 1980's X10 equipment?  Not that that's bad, had some X10 and it
worked, but device UI has improved since then ....?

Thanks for the advice!
Steve