Re: Security System

[Robert L Bass <sales@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

> So, if I go out and buy, say, an Elk M1, will I be able
> to control my security system with it?  Would it just
> replace the controllers, or would I have some work to
> do in the black box as well?

The ELK M1Gold is a security system as well as a home automation
controller.  It does a great job as an alarm.  It is also capable
of reading and operating all sorts of HA related devices.

Elk supports numerous lighting protocols, including UPB, Z-Wave,
ALC, Centralite, etc., so you won't likely wind up with an
obsolete system when the protocol war is over.

It currently supports HAI, Aprilaire and RCS communicating
thermostats, but it will also support Z-Wave enabled stats when
they become available.

One of the things I like about dealing with ELK Products is they
are extremely responsive to dealer requests.  If several dealers
ask them to add a feature ELK will do it and include it in the
next firmware release.

Speaking of firmware releases (ie, upgrades), ELK makes these
available via free download directly from their website.  Almost
every other manufacturer, including HAI, charges a fee for
replacement chips.  Need a new lighting protocol added?  Elk will
add it to the lighting control interface or, if you're so
inclined, you can develop your own and implement it directly on
the ELK.

Most manufacturers, including HAI, charge a hefty fee for the
software which you need to configure and diagnose the system.
Elk includes it free with the controller if you DIY.  Upgrades
are free via their website.

HAI and Elk both offer Internet connectivity.  HAI charges a
significant fee for their software (not the same as the
configuration software).  With Elk it's included.

HAI, like most HA controllers, can read each zone (sensor
circuit) status as "open" or "shorted".  Elk does the same but
Elk also does analog.  It can read  and compare different
temperature, humidity and pressure sensors and make decisions
based on complex logical comparisons.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

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

--

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