I bought a home a couple years ago and it used to have an ADT security system. So I have in place 2 wired keypads, 2 motion sensors and some security cameras.
I don’t want to pay for the ADT service, so the “brain box” in my basement is currently disabled.
I have broadband and WiFi and I’m tech savvy. I would like to:
[ul][li]Get Vera Lite and integrate it with my wifi and my android phone[/li]
[li]Find the right security system to work with Vera Lite, that can use my existing wired security setup.[/li][/ul]
One last note, my cameras are not wifi they lead to a bundle of unconnected s-video cables in my basement. I assume previous owner had it hooked to a DVR of some kind. I’m assuming I will either have to wire them into the security control box (which is located in a different room in the basement) or convert them to wifi…
ADT typically use many brands, so if you can find out which one it was, then we can tell you if it can be re-used with one of Vera’s existing plugins or not?
Regarding the cameras, if you already have the wires terminating somewhere, then that’s probably the best place to place a DVR. If you network the DVR, then its possible to perhaps use these with Vera also. If you want to not bother with a DVR and use Vera to record video from these (or use a local NAS or similar), then you can buy network adapters that will digitize the camera outputs such as the following: http://www.byremote.net/products/conversion/
[quote=“strangely, post:2, topic:171324”]ADT typically use many brands, so if you can find out which one it was, then we can tell you if it can be re-used with one of Vera’s existing plugins or not?
Regarding the cameras, if you already have the wires terminating somewhere, then that’s probably the best place to place a DVR. If you network the DVR, then its possible to perhaps use these with Vera also. If you want to not bother with a DVR and use Vera to record video from these (or use a local NAS or similar), then you can buy network adapters that will digitize the camera outputs such as the following: http://www.byremote.net/products/conversion/[/quote]
I will get that ADT number and see if that helps. I do have a DVR selected on amazon, 4 Channel Embedded Linux US411Z-WS D1 H.264 Network DVR [url=https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/gp/associates/network/build-links/individual/main.html?marketplace=amazon&searchSubcategory=all&fieldKeywords=184-9907069-7610112&go.x=0&go.y=0&go=1&submit=1&selectedSearchIndex=all]Amazon Sign-In, so I would like to link the DVR with the Vera if possible.
Maybe also post a picture of the keypad, as some of us will be able to recognize the type.
The DVR might take some effort; some people have been hit and miss with getting all their cameras to work! I believe there is a plugin in the MiOS app store that helps?!
I was thinking it might be smarter to turn all the cameras into IP Cams, and only use systems that can use that standard… Though I’m not a big fan of going wifi (which I would have to do) with IP Cams, but at least they would all be on a good standard (TCP/IP).
There are many options really and there are quite a few similar threads here
I’m biased and have a DSC system with both an IT00 (RS232 device) bridged by and RS232 to IP adapter, and also a device called a 2DS that provides a network connection (wired).
There are many other equally as good systems (Paradox, GE etc) that are just as good, and once you decide on a brand you like, we can recommend how to get it connected via WiFi.
I was interested in the Honeywell Touch as it looks modern and has a few features. But I see there is a topic already started on this that I’ve read through and it seems its not fully supported.
I assume at some level I will have to deal with multiple interfaces anyway. This might mean having 2 apps on my android instead of 1 and I’m OK with that.
So, some of the contacts on the Lynx Touch wont trigger the micasa to do other things (like when a door is opened to turn lights on…), But I assume this could be done with extra sensors (ie two on the door, one for the alarm and another for micasa to turn on the light?).
I’m assuming thats the work around that would be needed to get both alarm and automation on a door for example…
Agreed, if you want a fancy control screen on the alarm then there’s no need to bother with a proprietary one since Garrett’s app can function as a far better interface to Vera and the alarm, and gives you far better flexibility for the system you chose (if supported by vera).
Buy another android tablet, wall mount and be done
I have been playing with the Tuxedo but haven’t spent enough time with it to recommend yet. I have also bought the Vera lite and now need to introduce them to each other, I hope they get along.
On the alarm system you have (after the pictures) I would definitely do and upgrade.
Okay, thanks for all the feedback. I think I will just not worry about it and look into the vera lite and whatever security system and just get stuff working first.
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