New house alarm advice

Waesfjord

Hi all,

I'll be moving into a new house in a couple of months and have been looking at what type of house alarm to get.

House will be wired for alarm already. Having read various threads here have been very informative. It's a great resource, thanks to those who take the time to help people like me out!!

Based on feedback I've read, I should include the following downstairs

• Shock contacts on all downstairs windows including ground floor velux windows (total 8)
• There are 3 doors (one front, back, patio back). Shock contact on all, 'leave' functionality on two of the doors.
• PiR's to cover 2 main zones downstairs. I'm thinking one for hall pointing at front door, other in open plan area to capture entry from either back doors

I'm unclear what to do for upstairs.

• shock/contact or shock only (7 total) - when recently chatting with a Garda crime prevention officer, he was suggesting PiR only upstairs, with no perimeter protection??
• need for PiR in upstairs landing?
• skylight from roof to landing - presume this needs no sensor as inaccessible?

I'm guessing that the internal PiR wiring may not be there or in wrong location, so system that allows wireless PiR's may be needed.
I won't go monitored, preferring to get notified (by IP preferably or GSM otherwise).
I've read about the Siemens SPC4320, this seems well received, can take both wired and wireless sensors. Would this be professional only install, or possible for DIY'r?

thanks in advance

KoolKid

brian1976 wrote: »

I'm unclear what to do for upstairs.

• shock/contact or shock only (7 total) - when recently chatting with a Garda crime prevention officer, he was suggesting PiR only upstairs, with no perimeter protection??
• need for PiR in upstairs landing?
• skylight from roof to landing - presume this needs no sensor as inaccessible?

I'm guessing that the internal PiR wiring may not be there or in wrong location, so system that allows wireless PiR's may be needed.
I won't go monitored, preferring to get notified (by IP preferably or GSM otherwise).
I've read about the Siemens SPC4320, this seems well received, can take both wired and wireless sensors. Would this be professional only install, or possible for DIY'r?

thanks in advance

Hi
I would got with shock sensors & contacts on all accessible windows/doors & contacts on all other openings.
PiR hall & landing would also be my advice.
Contact only on your skylight.
The SPC 4320 would be my first choice here.It would give you free email alerts free apps & free usage. (no recurring subscription charges) . You also have free polling alerts with network down notifications.
You also get remote access via any web browser via SPCConnect.com or direct to your IP address.
The only thing Siemens/Vanderbilt will not do is wireless shock sensors, although these can be added via third party devices if required.
GSDs upcoming i10-70 would also be a good choice here. This would give you wireless shock sensors & most of the features above.

Waesfjord

Thanks Koolkid for the reply.

Have been reading up on system since. It states that system can be used to e.g. operate lights etc. Just wondering how this functionality works. Is this a wireless output signal from controller, so you need a wireless receiver to sense output signal and power a light etc? Any other options worth considering?

I would welcome any recommendation for installers in Meath area. I can then get in touch for quotes once I get access to the house.

KoolKid

Hi external devices can be switched either by wired outputs or using x10 devices which use signaling over your existing mains wiring.

timeout11

Hi koolkid
Just wondering could you help me please . I had the Siemens spc4320 installed in the past f weeks but just wondering could you answer a few q's on it

I have ip connection which is Backed up by sms. if my internet goes down should I receive a text message informing me of this ? Currently if the alarm goes off and the ip is down I am not receiving a text alert to notify me of the internet being down or of the alarm going off. This happened in the past few days where I arrived home to the alarm going off but not text or email , it turned out three was a local broadband fault but I thought I still should have got a text

How do I test that polling is working or not .?

regarding email alert is it possible to set up emails that will immediately pop up on my phone .?

Sorry for the stupid q's I am a complete novice and I should have asked the installer at the time.

Thanks again

KoolKid

Hi
You need to enable all the notifications you wish to get alerts for for each users number.
For email alerts on poll fails you can enable this in your Spc Connect account. Also check the poll time settings in FlexC /ATS. For quick notifications set at Cat4 or Cat5.
If you use a Gmail account the notifications will be pushed to the phone and the alert will stay at the top.

rodge123

brian1976 wrote: »

Thanks Koolkid for the reply.

Have been reading up on system since. It states that system can be used to e.g. operate lights etc. Just wondering how this functionality works. Is this a wireless output signal from controller, so you need a wireless receiver to sense output signal and power a light etc? Any other options worth considering?

I would welcome any recommendation for installers in Meath area. I can then get in touch for quotes once I get access to the house.

Hi Brian

Were you happy with this system in the end?
Looking to move into our new build in the next 6 weeks, therefore hoping to get alarm system sorted soon.

Did you find a certified/approved installer? (Think insurance companies require this if you state it on your policy)

Thanks

Waesfjord

rodge123 wrote: »

Hi Brian

Were you happy with this system in the end?
Looking to move into our new build in the next 6 weeks, therefore hoping to get alarm system sorted soon.

Did you find a certified/approved installer? (Think insurance companies require this if you state it on your policy)

Thanks

I'm still waiting to move in, will be sometime before christmas before I get a system installed.

timeout11

Hi koolkid thanks for getting back to me. I'm able to connect to spc connect and can see where I can enable notifications for. Network down etc. I can't see where I can change flexc/ats. Where can I change this ? I see their is s link to connect to panel web page , I clicked this but cannot log in .? Is the a manual or anything to tell me how to use the system .
Is it correct that the alarm is able to go off an I don't receive a text message if the Internet is down . I thought that the system worked on the basis that if internet is down it will revert to text message to inform me of alarm activation ?

Thanks again

rodge123

KoolKid wrote: »

Hi
You need to enable all the notifications you wish to get alerts for for each users number.
For email alerts on poll fails you can enable this in your Spc Connect account. Also check the poll time settings in FlexC /ATS. For quick notifications set at Cat4 or Cat5.
If you use a Gmail account the notifications will be pushed to the phone and the alert will stay at the top.

Hi KoolKid

I'm looking to get alarm system installed in our new build in the next few weeks.
All openings have wires for system.

Would you still recommend the Siemens Spc 4320?

Know of any installers that will quote? We are based on Kildare/Meath border.

I believe it needs to be installed and certified in order for it to be valid on house insurance?

KoolKid

Yes, I would recommend it for a wired system. It's one of the most popular systems we install.
Take a look at the sticky for some installers and a link to the PSA register of licensed installers.

Carrie Palmer

I would suggest you to go with a wireless security system simply because they are safe and efficient . They are efficient, easier to instal, has faster support and is flexible and versatile . It is easy to expand your system(as your family grows or your needs increase). To choose a particular brand , just take a look at some review sites and settle for the best. Also there are few things to be kept in mind while you invest in security system like the the extent of control you desire, DIY installation etc... Have you tried home security automation systems ontario, Sleep well security systems. Do check more details before settling for a particular brand.

KoolKid

Absolutely no benefit to installing a wireless system into a wired house. Most wired systems are hybrid now so you would have the flexibility to add wireless devices if need be.

VJWaterford9

Not sure if this is the best thread to post but I want to relocate the battery pack for our Phonewatch alarm to another room as the room it's currently plugged into is now the baby's. We had limited plugs free downstairs at the time of installing a couple of yes ago! I contacted phonewatch but they won't relocate it unless I pay an engineer €100 per hr?! Seems extortionate when we pay a monthly maintenance fee, anyone experience of how to do this yourself without setting off the whole system? Thanks!

rodge123

VJWaterford9 wrote: »

Not sure if this is the best thread to post but I want to relocate the battery pack for our Phonewatch alarm to another room as the room it's currently plugged into is now the baby's. We had limited plugs free downstairs at the time of installing a couple of yes ago! I contacted phonewatch but they won't relocate it unless I pay an engineer €100 per hr?! Seems extortionate when we pay a monthly maintenance fee, anyone experience of how to do this yourself without setting off the whole system? Thanks!

Just tell them you want to cancel your monthly subscription with them (if you are no longer in contract).
They will ask why - you will says cause of the engineer fee - they will offer to do for free if you stay!

I always do similar with my sky when need something fixed. They have sent engineer out for free if I stayed with them.

VJWaterford9

I am afraid I have told them I am cancelling once my contract is up, I have spoken with three different customer care managers and they are firm on the call put fee and they don't seem a bit bothered I am leaving them!

KoolKid

VJWaterford9 wrote: »

Not sure if this is the best thread to post but I want to relocate the battery pack for our Phonewatch alarm to another room as the room it's currently plugged into is now the baby's. We had limited plugs free downstairs at the time of installing a couple of yes ago! I contacted phonewatch but they won't relocate it unless I pay an engineer €100 per hr?! Seems extortionate when we pay a monthly maintenance fee, anyone experience of how to do this yourself without setting off the whole system? Thanks!

Is this the old or new phonewatch system?
If its their older systems shop around. There are plenty of company's that would be able to do this for you.If its their new system you are stuck with them for the life of the system.
Also don't fall for the offer of the upgrade to the new system. That will leave you stuck with having to pay them for everything in the future.

VJWaterford9

It's 2yrs old so I guess it's a new system? They obviously know they have me caught because all three managers I spoke to were defiantly firm that I would have to pay! Just seems a ridiculous call out fee for what appears to be a simple job and we were led to believe all call outs were included in the monthly fee.. Just going to have persevere til my contract ends!

KoolKid

So is it the one with the cameras inside your house in the PiRs?

Colm

VJWaterford9

KoolKid wrote: »

So is it the one with the cameras inside your house in the PiRs?

Colm

Yup that's what we have..

KoolKid

That's why they are so adamant. They know you can't go anywhere else. This is the future for anyone going with PW. This is why they are so eager to upgrade everyone.

kub

Carrie Palmer wrote:

I would suggest you to go with a wireless security system simply because they are safe and efficient . They are efficient, easier to instal, has faster support and is flexible and versatile . It is easy to expand your system(as your family grows or your needs increase). To choose a particular brand , just take a look at some review sites and settle for the best. Also there are few things to be kept in mind while you invest in security system like the the extent of control you desire, DIY installation etc... Have you tried home security automation systems ontario, Sleep well security systems. Do check more details before settling for a particular brand.

Are you suggesting that wired Systems are none of the above?

kub

wrote:

Yup that's what we have..

Sorry VJ they have you over a barrel, you and thousands more.

volker81k

Hi all,

My little family is moving into a house without alarm in few weeks.
As I would need security for myself if I tell my wife we need to open all walls to pull wires this is not an option.

My first idea was to get a HKC wireless system but after reading here a good bit I am put off by the follow on charges for remote access and app.
Vanderbilt (aka Siemens) only provides wired solutions when I studied their website and this forum correctly.
Is there any wireless alternative left for me beside GSD?

BTW is that coincidence that the sensors, smoke and CO2 detectors of GSD look like HKC ones?

Thanks in advance,
Volker

KoolKid

Siemens/Vanderbilt do wireless, just not wireless shocks.
You could use third party wireless inertia's with Siemens/Vanderbilt.
Why not GSD?
You could use Risco
You could use UTC (GE Aritech)
All these offer free apps & usage.
The smoke/heat & fire detectors you are talking about are not HKCs they are EI. Various manufacturers use them and adapt the protocols for their wireless.

volker81k

Thanks KoolKid for the fast reply.

The GSDi70 should cover what I need. Any idea of prices for GSDi70 and sensors/detectors?
I have seen a kit as well in one of GSD's videos.

KoolKid

We don't go into pricing here. Your best bet is to get a few quotes. What I can say is there is not a lot between the cost on any of the systems listed.

volker81k

I had an installer in my recently to get a quote.
Initially I was looking for an alarm system from GSD. That installer only supplies the Jablotron 100 system.
Does anyone have experience / opinions on this one?

KoolKid

If an installer can not or is not able to install the system you want you should move on to someone more experienced. Shop around and get a survey and quote from at least 3 licenced installers.
Would you go into Harvey Norman's and have them tell you they will only sell one brand of TV or PC?

sullivk

Can anyone PM me recommended installers in South Dublin area for the Siemens spc 4030 system? Thank you

volker81k

KoolKid wrote: »

If an installer can not or is not able to install the system you want you should move on to someone more experienced. Shop around and get a survey and quote from at least 3 licenced installers.
Would you go into Harvey Norman's and have them tell you they will only sell one brand of TV or PC?

You got me wrong there.
The thing is that I never looked into Jablotron so I wanted to have an opinion on that.

KoolKid

I have never come across them or come across anyone who uses them.

kub

I have, I would class it in the Yale category.

KoolKid

kub wrote: »

I have, I would class it in the Yale category.

Enough said.

Jimmy3

Hi Koolkid,

I have a new house which I would like to secure. A Hybrid Alarm which uses WiFi (WiFi router uses SIM card)(no landline).
There are cables ran to doors and I would need to add wireless contacts/shocks (15) and wireless PIR's (4) to windows and other areas.

I would like to be able to monitor/be notified by it via phone app and have some sort of polling (no regular fees!).
I intend to put in a CCTV system, depending on cost could be now or in the future.
From my reading of you threads, you appear to favour GSD i70 or SPC 4320 for most solutions.

What would you recommend in my situation?
Are any of these compatible with any CCTV system?

Thanks for your help in advance

KoolKid

GSD has great integration with Hikvision cctv systems.

cuculainn

HI All,

Looking for some alarm advice, for a detached house.

Unfortunatley it is only wired for PIR and not for contact/shock at the windows.

I would like to have perimeter security rather than all PIR.
What are my options? i am leaning towards self install with self monitoring, but would like the option of monitored maybe.

I would also be open to a professional install, but so far i have failed to get anyone from that PSA list to call out and quote!!


is my best option to go with wired PIR and wireless shock on the accessible windows (15) and doors (3)?

what is best system to integrate this? also is it possible to have PIR with a camera that can be viewed over an app?

thanks in advance

KoolKid

Yes, best option to go with wired PIR and wireless shock on the accessible windows and doors.
The new GSD i1070 would be my recommendation here. It will allow you add wireless devices and have free self monitoring with free apps and free notifications. It also has very good polling times with notifications in five minutes and instant smash and grap alerts.
No company should be refusing to call out and do a survey and quote. It is a requirement for the standards.

cuculainn

KoolKid wrote: »

Yes, best option to go with wired PIR and wireless shock on the accessible windows and doors.
The new GSD i1070 would be my recommendation here. It will allow you add wireless devices and have free self monitoring with free apps and free notifications. It also has very good polling times with notifications in five minutes and instant smash and grap alerts.
No company should be refusing to call out and do a survey and quote. It is a requirement for the standards.

Hi KoolKid thanks for taking the time to reply. It's not so much refusing to call out, it's more not bothering!!

I'll look into the GSD system.

KoolKid

No problem. If you need any more information give me a shout.

cuculainn

KoolKid wrote: »

No problem. If you need any more information give me a shout.

Hi KoolKid again. Just a follow up question. If you opt for a monitored alarm, rather than self monitored, how do the annual costs compare? I know you said the GSD have free self monitoring, but say you were to compare hkc self monitored cost vs monitored by a centre?

Thanks again

KoolKid

Central Station monitoring costs will vary a lot.
Some prices will include just ,monitoring , some may include monitoring & your annual service, some may include monitoring & 2 service calls. Others will include unlimited call outs and monitoring.Others may also include all or some parts.Others may include everything.
Some may include GSM/GPRS & SIM card so no phone line or phone rental is needed.
Shop around . The cheapest may not be the best value.

cuculainn

KoolKid wrote: »

Central Station monitoring costs will vary a lot.
Some prices will include just ,monitoring , some may include monitoring & your annual service, some may include monitoring & 2 service calls. Others will include unlimited call outs and monitoring.Others may also include all or some parts.Others may include everything.
Some may include GSM/GPRS & SIM card so no phone line or phone rental is needed.
Shop around . The cheapest may not be the best value.

HI KoolKid,

following up with you again,

what would you think of HKC hybrid as an option. Most installers in my area use these. in fact havent found one that installs GSD yet!

thanks

KoolKid

Its a good option except for the app & app usage charges.
Beware of the guys who only know one system.
If you contact GSD they will put you in contact with installers that cover your area.
info at globalsecurity.ie

Phone: +353 (1) 524 2691

Kallantin

Hi,

Can somebody PM me numbers for installers in west Dublin for Siemens SPC4320? Seems very well received, need something with internet and SIM as a backup. Currently have wireless but might go wired on the other floors as they are pre-wired.

Energy1

KoolKid wrote: »

Its a good option except for the app & app usage charges.
Beware of the guys who only know one system.
If you contact GSD they will put you in contact with installers that cover your area.
info at globalsecurity.ie

Phone: +353 (1) 524 2691

Hi koolkid,

Have you contact details for Siemens Alarm installers?

What is the price difference in HKC and Siemens and why should oen go for Siemens?

I hear they are the best but I don't understand why. I dont have cameras, its a terrace house I have with 8 openings downstairs. I dont like the idea of annual charges I know thats one advantage with Siemens. Thanks.

KoolKid

Price varies from installer to installer even on the same systems so shop around.
The main features of Siemens Vanderbilt over the HKC are the quick polling times and notification on fails.
The free apps and usage.
The addition benefit of browser access from any pc or phone with internet access.
Multiple Spc accounts and email alerts at no cost.
Remember brands differ also. You wouldn't get a Siemens or a Dyson product for the same price as a Beko.

Energy1

Out of curiosity is it possible to get a HKC touchscreen panel or is it just the standard one available?

altor

Energy1 wrote: »

Out of curiosity is it possible to get a HKC touchscreen panel or is it just the standard one available?

No, just the standard or wire free keypads are available.

kub

Energy1 wrote: »

Out of curiosity is it possible to get a HKC touchscreen panel or is it just the standard one available?

They are in the process of developing one, so watch this space, but don't hold your breath

KoolKid

If it were anyway close I'd imagine there might be an appearance at ISEC. But it's another no show this year I think.