Re: DIY Wireless System Recommendations?

[Frank Olson <use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

tourman wrote:
> On May 23, 2:01 am, Frank Olson
> <use_the_email_li...@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>> y...@xxxxxx wrote:
>>> On Thu, 21 May 2009 06:58:43 -0700, Frank Olson
>>> <use_the_email_li...@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>>>> y...@xxxxxx wrote:
>>>>> I want to install a wireless alarm system in my house.  I've been
>>>>> visiting some websites that sell them.  Can anyone recommend one that
>>>>> has all or some of these features:
>>>>> 1) Uses N-RAM so if all power is lost, even back up battery, the
>>>>> system will retain its settings and not require setup again?  Will
>>>>> be fully operational/configured when power restored.
>>>>> 2) Can use your computer directly(not going through a website) to
>>>>> setup/download/upload system settings?
>>>>> 3) Components such as Motion Sensors are reliable but not real
>>>>> expensive?
>>>>> 4) Easily programmable, user friendly.
>>>>> I am thinking of having 3 magnetic door switches and about 5 motion
>>>>> sensors.
>>>>> Also is there any precautions or special needs when using magnetic
>>>>> door alarm switches on steel doors?  I know the steel can rob some
>>>>> magnetism but what if they're installed with spacers so they're
>>>>> mounted about 1/2" away from door?
>>>>> Any information appreciated............
>>>> Installing a system (particularly wireless) isn't as "easy" as some
>>>> DIYer's may think.  The features you list are pretty well "standard" in
>>>> any system you get these days.  DSC sells a wireless "all-in-one" unit,
>>>> but I would strongly suggest that the main keypad (which is also your
>>>> common control) be located somewhere other than next to an entry door.
>>>> This goes for practically any of the "all-in-one" type alarms (like
>>>> Ademco's Lynx, and Visonic's Power-Max).  Of the three I've mentioned,
>>>> all are relatively simple to program, but if you've read some of the
>>>> questions posted here, you'll find that programming an alarm system
>>>> requires a knowledge of alarm terminology.  GE/Sentrol publish an
>>>> installation handbook that will answer most of your questions regarding
>>>> special applications like installing sensors in steel doors.  It's
>>>> geared to sell Sentrol/GE branded equipment, but the applications are
>>>> pretty well universal.  You can download it from the FAQ's page at
>>>> http://yoursecuritysource.com.
>>>> One more thing...  If you're contemplating the purchase of this
>>>> equipment "online", I'd suggest you compare prices and service with one
>>>> of your LOCAL alarm providers as well.  Additionally, warranty may not
>>>> apply to your installation unless a dealer (aka professional installer)
>>>> checks your terminations prior to power-up.  If you compare the cost
>>>> you'll pay for shipping the equipment with the cost for a two hour
>>>> service call, I think you'll come out ahead using the local dealer as
>>>> your parts source.
>>>> Regards,
>>>> Frank Olson
>>> Thanks for the info Frank.  I've downloaded the handbook you
>>> mentioned.  Yes, I'd definately be hiding the main unit somewhere.  My
>>> neighbor had a Honeywell/Ademco installed by ADT.  Its control panel
>>> is 2 feet from the front entry door! Yikes!
>>> Initially I don't plan on having the system monitored by a Central
>>> Office.  I will have it dial my cellphone.  If after all is working I
>>> might get monitoring but to me, unless you have a GSM module, its too
>>> easy for the telephone line to get cut.
>>> Thanks again for the input.  I certainly appreciate it.
>> Yeah...  I see things went their usual downward spiral from here.  Some
>> professionals have pretty strong feelings about voice dialers and many
>> DIYer's have attempted to use the "page" option to dial a cell phone
>> with little to some success.
>>
>> I consider my family to be my most precious "gift" and wouldn't consider
>> anything but a monitored alarm system to protect them.  Your self
>> dialling security system will do you a lot of good when the carbon
>> monoxide detector or smoke alarm goes off in the middle of the night and
>> you're fast asleep with your cell phone turned off or "on charge"
>> downstairs.  Or worse...  some creep decides to break in and winds up
>> confronting you in your bedroom.  A GSM module, a professionally
>> installed and monitored alarm system is a small price to pay when you
>> weigh it against the alternative "cheap solution".  This is just my
>> honest opinion (which is thankfully shared by many here).  One of the
>> regular posters here lost his son in a house fire.  And I was called in
>> to help repair a fire alarm system after a fire struck an apartment
>> building in the wee hours of the morning several years ago.  Two kids
>> lost their lives in that one and I'll never forget it.  I've kept these
>> individuals in mind every time I service, install, or inspect a fire or
>> burg system and won't compromise just to be the "cheaper choice".
>>
>> I wish you well with your choice, but please do consider professional
>> monitoring as a security asset rather than the liability you seem to
>> think it is.
>>
>> Regards,
>> Frank
>
> RHC: Frank, with this idiot, I think you are probably wasting your
> time. Personally, I have largely given up the polite route. For years,
> I carefully crafted my responses to ensure no mis-interpretation, and
> to ensure I didn't accidentally insult someone. However, there are
> some people who are so stupid they simply don't deserve any other kind
> or response than the ones he got. I'll go a million miles to help any
> alarm user, including those who unwisely choose to "self monitor";
> however, stupid is as stupid does. Mark said it right on with this
> guy.....


You've spent way to much time south of the border you've forgotten what
it's like to be "Canadian".  :-)