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Ajax wireless alarm system

  • 27-02-2020 9:37pm
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    I'm getting an Ajax alarm installed by HomeSecure & considering including their StreetSiren, which is the equivalent of a siren box.

    The system is generally wireless and doesn't use the pre wired cables in the house. However, the StreetSiren can operate by batteries or hardwired via 12v supply.

    Most new houses have a cable behind the bricks in the facia of the house... Will this be suitable to power the siren?

    Alarm:
    https://ajax.systems/

    Siren:
    https://ajax.systems/products/streetsiren/


«1345

Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    I'm getting an Ajax alarm installed by HomeSecure & considering including their StreetSiren, which is the equivalent of a siren box.

    The system is generally wireless and doesn't use the pre wired cables in the house. However, the StreetSiren can operate by batteries or hardwired via 12v supply.

    Most new houses have a cable behind the bricks in the facia of the house... Will this be suitable to power the siren?

    Alarm:
    https://ajax.systems/

    Siren:
    https://ajax.systems/products/streetsiren/

    Yes if it is alarm cable then it could be used.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    altor wrote: »
    Yes if it is alarm cable then it could be used.

    Thanks. I presume the cable is behind the bricks... The installer drills through and fishes out the cable?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    Thanks. I presume the cable is behind the bricks... The installer drills through and fishes out the cable?

    Is your house wired for an alarm?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    altor wrote: »
    Is your house wired for an alarm?

    Yes, it's a new build, wired for alarm.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    Yes, it's a new build, wired for alarm.

    Cable could be in the attic or behind a plate in a front room so installer can drill out to front of house.

    Are they installing a wired or wire free alarm?


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    altor wrote: »
    Cable could be in the attic or behind a plate in a front room so installer can drill out to front of house.

    Are they installing a wired or wire free alarm?

    It's a wire free alarm


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    It's a wire free alarm

    Wired would always be preferable if cables are installed.
    Also, wire free is more expensive re sensors and batteries, especially if needing to replace them.

    Did they give a reason for not wanting to use the cables?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    altor wrote: »
    Wired would always be preferable if cables are installed.
    Also, wire free is more expensive re sensors and batteries, especially if needing to replace them.

    Did they give a reason for not wanting to use the cables?

    I chose the system, then the security company... The batteries have a life up to seven years. The system is flexible and can work if the power is cut, broadband or mobile network is down. It is heavily customisable and controllable via the app... Components can be added ad hok, it has fire, carbon monoxide and flood sensors, will eventually be able to integrate with my smart home and is compatible with a wide range of IP camera...

    I don't see the advantage of a wired system.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    I chose the system, then the security company... The batteries have a life up to seven years. The system is flexible and can work if the power is cut, broadband or mobile network is down. It is heavily customisable and controllable via the app... Components can be added ad hok, it has fire, carbon monoxide and flood sensors, will eventually be able to integrate with my smart home and is compatible with a wide range of IP camera...

    I don't see the advantage of a wired system.

    With most systems been hybrid then you are covered in both as you could have a mixed of wired and wire free.
    Ajax do have a Transmitter which could be used to have wired and wire free sensors added.
    Id be looking into that as it could also save you money rather than going fully wire free.

    All systems will work in the event of a power cut as they use back up batteries.
    Comms if down will not work.

    Can the Ajax system not integrate with a smart hub, like google or others?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    altor wrote: »
    Can the Ajax system not integrate with a smart hub, like google or others?

    Not yet, they are promoting their own integrations at the moment, but I believe there will be Google Home support in the future. It would be good to integrate some lighting


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    Just for clarity... The wire in the attic is live and doesn't need to be connected to anything at the other end?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    Not yet, they are promoting their own integrations at the moment, but I believe there will be Google Home support in the future. It would be good to integrate some lighting

    Definitely would, its what most systems are missing but they have their own devices for home automation.

    I use sonoff devices to control lights/heating. also as I get a text from the alarm I use it to trigger lights for alarm activations using IFTTT. Think I read if you use your own sim card on the Ajax you can get text messages from the system but dont quote me on that :D If so you can do the same.

    The thing I dont agree with from a security point of view is the geofencing, on/off or the arming and disarming the system using commands and codes spoken out.

    I dont know much the Ajax system as it is new to the market and home secure have the rights to it here but can be brought in through other channels if needs be. One issue is if you have a zone open when trying to set the alarm is it beeps and you have to go around the house to see whats open, realistically they should have an LCD display so you can see whats open or even for voice prompts.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    Just for clarity... The wire in the attic is live and doesn't need to be connected to anything at the other end?

    The cable will go back to the location of all the cables from the alarm.
    From the spec it looks like it is a wire free bell but you can just have a 12V power supply installed at location of cables to power the bell.
    Make sure you get a boxed power supply and install a back up battery as well.


  • Moderators, Motoring & Transport Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 22,984 Mod ✭✭✭✭bk


    altor wrote: »
    The thing I dont agree with from a security point of view is the geofencing, on/off or the arming and disarming the system using commands and codes spoken out.

    Add fobs and rfid tags that can disarm your alarm system to that list! You not only lose your house keys, but they can also conveniently disarm your alarm, dumb!!

    I’d argue significantly worse then even using voice+pin to control a system.

    Having said that such voice control and geofencing are optional on this system. You can of course just use the keypad or app instead.

    On geofencing I’d point out that some systems, like my Yale and Nest, don’t actually arm/disarm by geofencing. Instead they just notify you if they notice you are out and the system isn’t armed. I think this is a really good idea and a nice reminder, sort of similar to the way that an alarm system will remind you if you leave a door or window open. I’d agree that geofencing is not good enough for actual arming/disarming.

    On your point of the Ajax system not telling you which door/window is open, the app would tell you that, so no need to run around your house. Not ideal I agree, I prefer keypads with a screen.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    bk wrote: »
    Add fobs and rfid tags that can disarm your alarm system to that list! You not only lose your house keys, but they can also conveniently disarm your alarm, dumb!!

    Yes Id agree and add them to the list, some fobs can be set for code unset which is a safer solution.
    bk wrote: »
    I’d argue significantly worse then even using voice+pin to control a system.

    Pins on alarm are safe once only users know them, speaking out your code to disarm you alarm would be a different scenario.
    bk wrote: »
    Having said that such voice control and geofencing are optional on this system. You can of course just use the keypad or app instead.

    On geofencing I’d point out that some systems, like my Yale and Nest, don’t actually arm/disarm by geofencing. Instead they just notify you if they notice you are out and the system isn’t armed. I think this is a really good idea and a nice reminder, sort of similar to the way that an alarm system will remind you if you leave a door or window open. I’d agree that geofencing is not good enough for actual arming/disarming.

    Id agree also re the arming/disarming.
    bk wrote: »
    On your point of the Ajax system not telling you which door/window is open, the app would tell you that, so no need to run around your house. Not ideal I agree, I prefer keypads with a screen.

    Id agree also its not ideal and very backward if you have a system that you actually need to open an app to see whats open and closed.
    LCD keypad or voice prompts would be a easy fix to this solution.


  • Moderators, Motoring & Transport Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators Posts: 22,984 Mod ✭✭✭✭bk


    altor wrote: »
    Yes Id agree and add them to the list, some fobs can be set for code unset which is a safer solution.

    Yep, but you and I know it is rarely used as such. Doing so defeats the purpose of such fobs, which is convenience.
    altor wrote: »
    Pins on alarm are safe once only users know them, speaking out your code to disarm you alarm would be a different scenario.

    Sure, but in a normal residential setting, that isn't going to be much issue in reality, everyone will know the PIN anyway. If you are bringing a stranger home :D you can always use the keypad for that time, just make sure they don't shoulder surf you ;)

    BTW Google Home actually has voice recognition, it can differentiate between me and my better half, playing from our individual Spotify accounts when we talk to it, etc. I don't think this is at a high enough level of reliability yet for security, but it is only a matter of time. AIB have actually started using voice recognition to identify customers when you call their help line!

    I actually wonder when someone builds face ID type biometric tech into a security camera. Imagine a camera at your front door that scans the face of each person who enters and disarms the alarm when it sees you. It could also arm the system when it sees that everyone has left.

    Netatmo already has something like this on it's cameras, but I don't think it has anything like face ID level of reliability yet.

    It is definitely going to be an interesting space to watch develop over the next few years. Lots of interesting possibilities.
    altor wrote: »
    Id agree also its not ideal and very backward if you have a system that you actually need to open an app to see whats open and closed.
    LCD keypad or voice prompts would be a easy fix to this solution.

    Well, you don't necessarily have to open an app. When it fails to arm, the system can just send you a notification of why it failed, you can read it by just glancing at your phone lock screen, much quicker then needing to open the app. I don't know if Ajax does this, but if it doesn't it should, it would make up for the lack of screen.

    But I agree I'd prefer if it had a screen. My Yale system doesn't have a screen, I don't like that, but neither is it the end of the world, it is relatively seldom that I forget to lock a window, but it would be nicer if it had it. It isn't a big enough to be a deal breaker, just a minor annoyance/con.

    Actually on that, I don't know why no one is using e-ink screens on their keypads. e-ink is great, always on screen and at a fraction of the power usage of a LED screen. My Netatmo Smart Thermostat has such a screen and it is great, works really well, years of battery life out of it. Would be perfect for use in alarm keypads like these.

    Anyway always fun to chat and think about these things :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    bk wrote: »
    Yep, but you and I know it is rarely used as such. Doing so defeats the purpose of such fobs, which is convenience.

    Yes Id agree with that bk, I would always recommend on fobs that would be used for the purpose of putting them on your keys.
    bk wrote: »
    Sure, but in a normal residential setting, that isn't going to be much issue in reality, everyone will know the PIN anyway. If you are bringing a stranger home :D you can always use the keypad for that time, just make sure they don't shoulder surf you ;)

    Hahaha you just never know whos watching, plus if you look at older keypads its not rocket science to work out codes from dirty and clean buttons :D
    bk wrote: »
    BTW Google Home actually has voice recognition, it can differentiate between me and my better half, playing from our individual Spotify accounts when we talk to it, etc. I don't think this is at a high enough level of reliability yet for security, but it is only a matter of time. AIB have actually started using voice recognition to identify customers when you call their help line!

    Yes they do but its more so the speaking of your user code than the voice recognition which can be used to disarm your alarm system I was thinking along the lines of.
    bk wrote: »
    I actually wonder when someone builds face ID type biometric tech into a security camera. Imagine a camera at your front door that scans the face of each person who enters and disarms the alarm when it sees you. It could also arm the system when it sees that everyone has left.

    Netatmo already has something like this on it's cameras, but I don't think it has anything like face ID level of reliability yet.

    It is definitely going to be an interesting space to watch develop over the next few years. Lots of interesting possibilities.

    It sure is, technology is moving so fast along that something done last year is superseded the next. Its good to be moving with the times, just need a few alarm companies to do the same re the home automation side of things and we will be all happy.
    bk wrote: »
    Well, you don't necessarily have to open an app. When it fails to arm, the system can just send you a notification of why it failed, you can read it by just glancing at your phone lock screen, much quicker then needing to open the app. I don't know if Ajax does this, but if it doesn't it should, it would make up for the lack of screen.

    But I agree I'd prefer if it had a screen. My Yale system doesn't have a screen, I don't like that, but neither is it the end of the world, it is relatively seldom that I forget to lock a window, but it would be nicer if it had it. It isn't a big enough to be a deal breaker, just a minor annoyance/con.

    You do on the Ajax system. LCD screen or even a voice anounations of the open zones would be the ideal solution.
    bk wrote: »
    Anyway always fun to chat and think about these things :)

    Always good to have constructive banter re these system and what they should be bringing to the table to make end users life easier :D


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    Bluefoam wrote: »
    I'm getting an Ajax alarm installed by HomeSecure & considering including their StreetSiren, which is the equivalent of a siren box.

    The system is generally wireless and doesn't use the pre wired cables in the house. However, the StreetSiren can operate by batteries or hardwired via 12v supply.

    Most new houses have a cable behind the bricks in the facia of the house... Will this be suitable to power the siren?

    Alarm:
    https://ajax.systems/

    Siren:
    https://ajax.systems/products/streetsiren/

    Do you mind me asking what you got installed and did home secure install the Ajax siren for you instead of there branded siren box?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,747 ✭✭✭Bluefoam


    House on hold: Covid


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,655 ✭✭✭✭machiavellianme


    Why not purchase the system and install it yourself?


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  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    I priced it up for a diy install and looks like 810 euros which seems alright. I’m not one for heights for the external siren which I would like hardwired in a new build.

    I’m wondering will there be a home insurance question if I do it myself.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,655 ✭✭✭✭machiavellianme


    I priced it up for a diy install and looks like 810 euros which seems alright. I’m not one for heights for the external siren which I would like hardwired in a new build.

    I’m wondering will there be a home insurance question if I do it myself.

    The advice on here seems to be not to mention any security alarm when renewing home insurance. It give the insurers a way to wiggle out of paying if you forget to arm the system. The saving is tiny in comparison to the extra risk of not paying out.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    Pulled the trigger and submitted my Order today for a self install.

    Ordered from here - https://www.megateh.eu/


    AJAX | Hub 2
    AJAX | Space Control
    AJAX | Door Protect
    AJAX | Street Siren
    AJAX | Leaks Protect
    AJAX | Fire Protect
    AJAX | Home Siren
    AJAX | Key Pad
    AJAX | Panic Button


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 11,766 ✭✭✭✭altor


    Pulled the trigger and submitted my Order today for a self install.

    Ordered from here - https://www.megateh.eu/


    AJAX | Hub 2
    AJAX | Space Control
    AJAX | Door Protect
    AJAX | Street Siren
    AJAX | Leaks Protect
    AJAX | Fire Protect
    AJAX | Home Siren
    AJAX | Key Pad
    AJAX | Panic Button

    How much did that cost?
    Did you only get one contact or what type of sensors did you get to protect windows, doors internal sensors?
    Do they supply the sim cards for the alarm system, any cost in upkeep of the sim card?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 965 ✭✭✭Pete123456


    Pulled the trigger and submitted my Order today for a self install.

    Ordered from here - https://www.megateh.eu/


    AJAX | Hub 2
    AJAX | Space Control
    AJAX | Door Protect
    AJAX | Street Siren
    AJAX | Leaks Protect
    AJAX | Fire Protect
    AJAX | Home Siren
    AJAX | Key Pad
    AJAX | Panic Button

    Can I ask Duke, how you found the install and any good or bad feedback since you installed? Would you swap any of the sensors or pick up more if you were to go again?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    Can I ask Duke, how you found the install and any good or bad feedback since you installed? Would you swap any of the sensors or pick up more if you were to go again?

    My setup is working exactly as I intended with no issues so far.

    I do have feedback ( Advice ) on installation

    When installing the Door Protect on the Windows and Doors, Use the screws and not the 3M tape that comes with the different products.

    the 3M tape will hold the small magnets but not the sensors or large magnets.

    You also need to be aware that on the Door Protect Sensors that the magnets can only be mounted on the Right side of the sensor( There is an Arrow on the sensor to show you the correct side.

    Lastly, When mounting the sensors with screws, you have a nano turn difference between installing the mount for the sensor and cracking it so go very slow when tightening it.

    I have the following amount of sensors installed

    AJAX Hub 2 X1
    AJAX Key Pad X1
    Ajax. Panic Alarm Button X1
    AjAX Space Control X 1
    AJAX Internal Siren X1
    AJAX External Siren X1
    AJAX Door Protect ( On Doors ) X 2
    AJAX Door Protect ( On Windows) X12
    AJAX Fire Protect X2
    AJAX LeaksProtect X1

    The only thing I would change is I would swap the Hub 2 for the for the Hub Plus or Hub 2 Plus

    This is due to the Hub 2 needs a LAN Connection where the Plus model can use Wifi.

    Im contemplating on getting the Motion Protects but I have dogs in the house which could maybe trigger the Alarm.

    I will most likely use Eufy Security Cameras internally instead as I use them externally along with the Eufy Doorbell.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    With regard to your Dogs, is there a Pet Immune Beam available from Ajax ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 965 ✭✭✭Pete123456


    kub wrote: »
    With regard to your Dogs, is there a Pet Immune Beam available from Ajax ?

    Supposedly the motion sensors are immune to pets up to 50cm?

    https://ajax.systems/products/motionprotect/


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    Supposedly the motion sensors are immune to pets up to 50cm?

    https://ajax.systems/products/motionprotect/

    Yep but I won’t risk it. The internal and external sirens are set as very loud and I don’t want the dogs triggering it due to a motion glitch.

    It’s the same reason I didn’t get the Door Protect plus due to the Shock detector. My dogs sit on the window sills looking out and like to go mad when they see us or a cat in the driveway.


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  • Registered Users Posts: 222 ✭✭bifl


    I priced it up for a diy install and looks like 810 euros which seems alright. I’m not one for heights for the external siren which I would like hardwired in a new build.

    I’m wondering will there be a home insurance question if I do it myself.

    Hi Duke,
    I'm the same as you I'd do the wireless bit myself but dont have the ladder or head for installing the external siren.

    What I'm wondering is how did you power the external box. I do have the house pre-wired so there is an external cable but it's running back to where all the pre-wired alarm cables go waiting to be powered up by a HKC control panel /power source lets say.

    How did you power the Ajax external box ? Does it mean I need to put the Ajax countol panel where the external siren cable end up ? I do have power up in the attic which I could get to the box either ?

    Finally on another note. I've see advice here a number of times that if your pre-wired best go for it. I could never get really why over an Ajax say. How did you rationallise this for you?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 965 ✭✭✭Pete123456


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    Can I ask Duke, how you found the install and any good or bad feedback since you installed? Would you swap any of the sensors or pick up more if you were to go again?

    Also, could you advise of the total cost? I was adding bits and pieces to the basket on the site you linked and the total cost for a set up similar to yours was well north of €1000? Just curious - I wouldn’t mind paying 1500 odd for something bulletproof considering the likely costs over 5 or 6 years with Phonewatch or the likes


  • Registered Users Posts: 3 mikey89ryan


    The external siren will actually last for years even without being hard wired. If you go on Ajax website you can actually work out how long your siren battery life expects to last, you just punch in some information like, how long is your system armed per day, does it beep when armed/disarmed etc... it will calculate for you how long they expect the battery life to last which is cool. Might not be 100% accurate but will give you a rough estimate. If you want to hard wire it, it takes a 12v dc power supply rated to 3amps if i remember. You could buy one on amazon if needed and plug it into a socket in attic and run it out or get somebody to do it for you!.

    Iv just bought my first home. i used to be a sparky but now work for a semi conductor company fixing tools. I was researching alarms for ages and came across Ajax on this board. Didn't want monthly fees so decided to go for it and spent around a grand on a hub 2 with the motion cam and other sensors. Been in the house a month and so far so good. I don,t have the external siren fitted outside yet as i wanted to make sure the system wasn't giving false alarms and waking neighbors when armed so iv kept it indoors but its been working perfect. I plan to install it outside the front this week. Im fortunate to have a ladder and not be put off by heights!!, maybe try and get someone to put it up for you! I am concerned at how resistant it is to rain though. I know its IP54 rated but it rains hard in this country, time will tell!.

    I also have herself set up on her phone so she operate the alarm when im not home. The app is nice and easy to use as is setting up devices. Bought a 2g sim card from Tesco for the cellular backup and thats working fine too!!. Will probably have too top up every month for that by a tenner or so but its worth it for back up in case anything goes wrong. I like the way the system will let you add cameras and stuff also, i plan to do that in future!.

    Had phonewatch call to my door when i was installing the alarm. They were doing the rounds asking people to sign up. Brought him in and showed him the hardware. He had never heard of Ajax.! It was funny, he was trying to pawn off a subscription and i was like..mate...no chance!!
    I got mine from Megateh online, they are from Estonia i believe, even got a complimentary bar of Estonian chocolate to go with it. So fa im very happy with the system and how its operating. Home Secure are also using the exact hardware so if they are happy to use it then that suggests its fairly reliable!.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,655 ✭✭✭✭machiavellianme


    Ebay have loads of world SIMs for data that hop network if the preferred one is down.
    I picked up one with 100MB per month for 25 for the year should my broadband drop off. Beats handing any of the Irish operators extra cash.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    The external siren will actually last for years even without being hard wired. If you go on Ajax website you can actually work out how long your siren battery life expects to last, you just punch in some information like, how long is your system armed per day, does it beep when armed/disarmed etc... it will calculate for you how long they expect the battery life to last which is cool. Might not be 100% accurate but will give you a rough estimate. If you want to hard wire it, it takes a 12v dc power supply rated to 3amps if i remember. You could buy one on amazon if needed and plug it into a socket in attic and run it out or get somebody to do it for you!.

    Iv just bought my first home. i used to be a sparky but now work for a semi conductor company fixing tools. I was researching alarms for ages and came across Ajax on this board. Didn't want monthly fees so decided to go for it and spent around a grand on a hub 2 with the motion cam and other sensors. Been in the house a month and so far so good. I don,t have the external siren fitted outside yet as i wanted to make sure the system wasn't giving false alarms and waking neighbors when armed so iv kept it indoors but its been working perfect. I plan to install it outside the front this week. Im fortunate to have a ladder and not be put off by heights!!, maybe try and get someone to put it up for you! I am concerned at how resistant it is to rain though. I know its IP54 rated but it rains hard in this country, time will tell!.

    I also have herself set up on her phone so she operate the alarm when im not home. The app is nice and easy to use as is setting up devices. Bought a 2g sim card from Tesco for the cellular backup and thats working fine too!!. Will probably have too top up every month for that by a tenner or so but its worth it for back up in case anything goes wrong. I like the way the system will let you add cameras and stuff also, i plan to do that in future!.

    Had phonewatch call to my door when i was installing the alarm. They were doing the rounds asking people to sign up. Brought him in and showed him the hardware. He had never heard of Ajax.! It was funny, he was trying to pawn off a subscription and i was like..mate...no chance!!
    I got mine from Megateh online, they are from Estonia i believe, even got a complimentary bar of Estonian chocolate to go with it. So fa im very happy with the system and how its operating. Home Secure are also using the exact hardware so if they are happy to use it then that suggests its fairly reliable!.

    You should consider getting yourself a boxed 12 volt power supply that you could put a 7 amp battery within to continue supplying your bell box with 12v in the event of a mains fault.

    Hikvision have now launched a system very similar to this Ajax one on the European market so this might be a game changer.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 965 ✭✭✭Pete123456


    kub wrote: »
    You should consider getting yourself a boxed 12 volt power supply that you could put a 7 amp battery within to continue supplying your bell box with 12v in the event of a mains fault.

    Hikvision have now launched a system very similar to this Ajax one on the European market so this might be a game changer.

    What is the name of the hikvision system called? Will it be accessible to non trade?


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  • Registered Users Posts: 222 ✭✭bifl


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    What is the name of the hikvision system called? Will it be accessible to non trade?

    Anyone any privacy concerns with hikvision. They would be on my list of cameras for sure when I take the plunge. Checking out their new Colour Vu online at the weekend.
    Read something lately though, and they were mentioned in the same breath as Huawei.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 29 thomasoreilly


    Hi All,
    just moved into new home, and found this forum, very interesting :)
    House is fully pre-wired, but I am now reconsidering the initial thoughts to go fully wired, after reading about this AJAX system. Pricing (initial and ongoing costs) and lack of smarts in 'traditional' intrusion alarms are pushing me towards self-install of AJAX. what I think I would like is a modern hybrid 'smart' system in self monitored mode. I would like to use wired, but I am no electrician!

    I found this one on the HIKVision site, and potentially meets what I want, but unable to find installer that will use it.

    I think what the poster above in relation to the HIKVision wireless alarm is the AX or AX Pro they have on their site?

    anyways the more I read and think about it, I will probably go for self install of Ajax, then I have full control and can manage and upgrade/add to it as I see fit. Home Secure do offer a very good package, €99 install €36 a month for 3 years. And seemingly I own it at the end. However they can't supply the newer hub or motioncams, so for similar money, up front of course, I can get the HUB 2 and motioncams. of course I do not get professional install, monitoring, support or SIM paid for.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    Hi All,
    just moved into new home, and found this forum, very interesting :)
    House is fully pre-wired, but I am now reconsidering the initial thoughts to go fully wired, after reading about this AJAX system. Pricing (initial and ongoing costs) and lack of smarts in 'traditional' intrusion alarms are pushing me towards self-install of AJAX. what I think I would like is a modern hybrid 'smart' system in self monitored mode. I would like to use wired, but I am no electrician!

    I found this one on the HIKVision site, and potentially meets what I want, but unable to find installer that will use it.

    I think what the poster above in relation to the HIKVision wireless alarm is the AX or AX Pro they have on their site?

    anyways the more I read and think about it, I will probably go for self install of Ajax, then I have full control and can manage and upgrade/add to it as I see fit. Home Secure do offer a very good package, €99 install €36 a month for 3 years. And seemingly I own it at the end. However they can't supply the newer hub or motioncams, so for similar money, up front of course, I can get the HUB 2 and motioncams. of course I do not get professional install, monitoring, support or SIM paid for.

    I think with Home Secure you cant add on to your setup without their say so.

    I could be wrong,

    My Ajax setup cost around 1100


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 29 thomasoreilly


    I think with Home Secure you cant add on to your setup without their say so.

    I could be wrong,

    My Ajax setup cost around 1100

    I asked if I would have admin access, and he said potentially, but I guess they probably aren't too keen on giving it, and allowing you to buy your own devices, modify the system, and then expect support! I asked if I got the motioncams myself could I add them and he basically said they are not available in UK or Ireland

    Would you recommend the Ajax?

    I am also going to be looking at Eufy for Doorbell and security cams, you happy with them? was originally actually going to do the alarm based off the Eufy as well. e.g. get the camera system, and a few of the alarm accessories.
    Did you consider this? adding contact sensors, motion and keypad.
    If it met my requirements, then I'd keep it, if not proceed with dedicated system like Ajax or professional wired. Actually I might still do that....

    Don't wanna hijack the thread but I have concern with Eufy cameras, I read the 'local' storage doesn't work if internet or their servers are down, anyone able to comment on this? need to do bit more research on it.
    Also like the idea of the Ezviz that has SIM backup in its base station, but not all cameras seem to talk back to it. I guess neither do all the Eufy cams with the homebase (for now), I know I am rambling, but I have found a place to actually discuss :)


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,662 ✭✭✭Duke of Url


    I asked if I would have admin access, and he said potentially, but I guess they probably aren't too keen on giving it, and allowing you to buy your own devices, modify the system, and then expect support! I asked if I got the motioncams myself could I add them and he basically said they are not available in UK or Ireland

    Would you recommend the Ajax?

    I am also going to be looking at Eufy for Doorbell and security cams, you happy with them? was originally actually going to do the alarm based off the Eufy as well. e.g. get the camera system, and a few of the alarm accessories.
    Did you consider this? adding contact sensors, motion and keypad.
    If it met my requirements, then I'd keep it, if not proceed with dedicated system like Ajax or professional wired. Actually I might still do that....

    Don't wanna hijack the thread but I have concern with Eufy cameras, I read the 'local' storage doesn't work if internet or their servers are down, anyone able to comment on this? need to do bit more research on it.
    Also like the idea of the Ezviz that has SIM backup in its base station, but not all cameras seem to talk back to it. I guess neither do all the Eufy cams with the homebase (for now), I know I am rambling, but I have found a place to actually discuss :)

    Homesecure charge you an extra a month per add on.

    https://www.homesecure.ie/products/#gref

    They won’t give you admin access and you can’t get it unmonitored.

    Homesecure is a complete waste when you can do everything yourself.

    Eufy security IMO is a perfect setup with the doorbell and cameras. Not one issue to be had so far.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    What is the name of the hikvision system called? Will it be accessible to non trade?

    I am afraid I cannot answer that because I was speaking with one of my own suppliers recently and the Hikvision Intruder equipment had not arrived to them yet.
    I imagine that Hikvision will pursue us installers first as they have plenty of suppliers here that supply installers with CCTV equipment.


  • Moderators, Home & Garden Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators, Regional East Moderators Posts: 12,602 Mod ✭✭✭✭2011


    Pete123456 wrote: »
    What is the name of the hikvision system called? Will it be accessible to non trade?

    I expect that just like their other product lines you will find they will sell to anyone that pays them.

    We had something similar in the electrical industry. Some electrical contractors unsuccessfully argued that some electrical accessories such as distribution boards should only be sold to those in the trade but this was a pointless exercise and impossible to police.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,655 ✭✭✭✭machiavellianme


    With Hikvision, their support is with the distributors and suppliers. As an end user, you will be told to contact who you bought it from. Not much use if you buy from ebay or megateh. Ajax on the other hand are incredibly friendly and very helpful.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    2011 wrote: »
    I expect that just like their other product lines you will find they will sell to anyone that pays them.

    We had something similar in the electrical industry. Some electrical contractors unsuccessfully argued that some electrical accessories such as distribution boards should only be sold to those in the trade but this was a pointless exercise and impossible to police.

    You guys are lucky, isn't there serious consequences for anyone going at a distribution board now who is not an actual electrician?

    All we have is the revenue dept known as the PSA.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    With Hikvision, their support is with the distributors and suppliers. As an end user, you will be told to contact who you bought it from. Not much use if you buy from ebay or megateh. Ajax on the other hand are incredibly friendly and very helpful.

    I am sure that if a Hikvision Intruder system is fitted by a licensed professional installer that they will also be incredibly friendly and very helpful 😉


  • Registered Users Posts: 222 ✭✭bifl


    What is there to consider about installation and location of the control panel. I'd propable go with a Hub2 Plus and utilise GSM and broadband.

    My issue is GSM is poor in the house with one room out of the way with some sort of GSM signal. I can get cat there through a powerline.

    Can you control panel be isolated, maybe even in the attic for gsm signal and then keypads at the doors ?


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 1,306 ✭✭✭bobbyy gee


    all wireless alarms can be jammed are less reliable than wired system as for the bell box rhe wire will bring up 12 volts which will charge a battery and keep it charged
    it's better to have 2 bell boxs as they can disable one
    it's better to get cameras that send video to your phone and then you call garda


  • Moderators, Home & Garden Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators, Regional East Moderators Posts: 12,602 Mod ✭✭✭✭2011


    kub wrote: »
    You guys are lucky, isn't there serious consequences for anyone going at a distribution board now who is not an actual electrician?

    The law is that you must be a registered electrical contractor to work on a domestic distribution board. A complete novice is legally permitted to work on a far more complex distribution board even if unregistered in an industrial installation. Clearly the objective of this is to get rid of the nixer merchants.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,555 ✭✭✭kub


    2011 wrote: »
    The law is that you must be a registered electrical contractor to work on a domestic distribution board. A complete novice is legally permitted to work on a far more complex distribution board even if unregistered in an industrial installation. Clearly the objective of this is to get rid of the nixer merchants.


    Yes domestic is right, I left that bit out. It is a farce though that this applies only to the domestic sphere but not to the commercial and industrial where a novice could find himself between 3 phases.
    I always suspected it was a kick back after the PSA were established, but having said all that, i do feel that no one except a registered electrician should have any business at a distribution board.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,139 ✭✭✭rob w


    Hi,

    Just had my Ajax system delivered this week from Megateh (Hub only as was cheaper here) and Best Alarm for the remainder of the sensors.

    I have a number of windows which have multiple openings and are currently wired with one shock sensor and the rest with Reed switches. What drew me to the Ajax system was the ability to wire external detectors from the sensors. This way I could buy one Door Protect Plus per window and loop the existing Reed switches for the rest.

    However now that it has arrived and I've had a look at it, it seems that it might be difficult to connect in the external sensors neatly concealing the cables.

    Has anyone done this at all or have any pics/advice on the install? I was hoping it would have a screw clamp terminal on the sensor but the plug in lead they supply with the sensor that pops out each side will just look messy I think!


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