I am starting fresh with a new Alarm system, so I can get whatever works best…
What are the suggestions?
Richard
Take a look at http://code.mios.com/ there are plugins for DSC, ELK, GE Caddx, Honeywell Ademco, Paradox, Visonic PowerMax. DSC and the Paradox seem to have the best integration.
I’m not sure if it is the “best”, but I have a DSC PowerSeries 1832 and it works quite nicely with Vera. I went with this system because when I first moved into my house it had a burnt out DSC PowerSeries 832 alarm system installed, but about 20 good wireless sensors.
The PowerSeries 1832 system was about $80 and an IT-100 serial interface was about $50. Admittedly I already owned most of the sensors but it seems like a pretty good value for a security system that interfaces nicely with Vera (thanks to the hard work of @guessed and @strangely!)
Any negative thoughts on it?
Richard
None that I know of, although there are pros and cons to all the systems; I went with DSC based on availability, price and compatibility.
How is the alarm connected to the Vera? With a cable, wire, or wireless?
You’ll need an EnvisaLink http://www.eyezon.com/?page_id=176 which gives your security system Ethernet access. You will then have access to control your system though your mobile device.
I too use a DSC 1832 and have no problems in the several years I’ve had a Vera. Same reason as @strangely… Widely used, cost and lots of sensors available.