I have some questions in regard to an alarm system/security for my home. I was able to successfully setup the Vera months ago as a simple home automation unit but now want to use it as an alarm system. I originally went out and purchased a Piper NV as well and a Premium DIY Home Security Kit, Z-Wave and Wink Enabled kit [http://www.homedepot.com/p/GoControl-Premium-DIY-Home-Security-Kit-Z-Wave-and-Wink-Enabled-WNK01-311KIT/205785810] from Home Depot to tie in with the Piper NV but it was a buggy experience. It worked about 50% of the time. I’ve read about the Veralite tying in with Elk, DSC or Honeywell alarm systems but i know nothing about that.
Ideally i want a Nest Cam (or any reliable and good quality camera) for my main living area, my foscam IP camera (for my hallway), sensors set up at my windows/doors, alarm siren and motion sensor outside. I would like to disable/enable this system with a keypad interface in case my family wanted to arm/disarm. Can anyone recommend a solution based on what i already have? Also what would be the best option to be able to arm/disarm from a keypad and/or iPhone?
I do have some experience in the home automation arena so i don’t mind doing some customization if need be. I currently have:
-Amazon Echo
-Roomie Remote controlling my entertainment system
-Phillips Hue
-Wemo light switch and ac outlet
-Nest thermostat
-Piper NV (which i’m probably going to get rid of)
Wouldn’t be awesome if i could tie in all of the other stuff? :
I’ve never used the Piper, but you may want to blame the GoControl kit first. I’ve got one that I’m returning tonight. The labels on the devices say zwave, but I struggled to get any of it working with Vera.
Your experience clearly speaks to the issue of non-reliability of xyz devices that are somewhat compatible… good luck figuring out what works 100% of the time when you are away from home.
On the flip side, you have the road to stability built around a reliable system from existing vendors that you can tie up with Vera for logical extentions.
So the question becomes: how much testing do you want to do before you go the easy way? :-\
If you want to save your ressources (time & $$$), you’ll notice the low cost of conventional Alarm “panels” and all the peace you get from them. Use an all-wired panel or a quick and easy wireless panel with battery powered sensors…
To built from the ground up, using a solid core fondation is most cost effective. With any choice you make you will face trade-offs so spend some time reading… before you spend cash - (in that order).
Honeywell Vista panels are good stable systems in my book. Perhaps also their newer/cheaper LYNX as well??
Thanks for the info dboytim. I’m new to the scene. I’m looking for a simple system with door/window sensors, be able to add some HD cameras, a siren, motion sensor and a keypad that can arm/disarm. I want the keypad because my wife and daughter aren’t going to jump through hoops to use it so i think a traditional keypad with some kind of confirmation (sound) should suffice for them.
What pieces would you recommend that are compatible with the Veralite? This way i can order them ASAP.
Also, besides the veralite and keypad, is there anything else i would need to to tie it in with the veralite (i.e., brain, hub, etc)? Unfortunately i wont be able to wire anything so wireless would be my only option.
