Home Automation/Security: Anyone Doing It?

[Synergy]

I am sure people here have built their own system or using a system such as Wink. I am not looking to run AC or creature comforts. Looking for lighting and security. Would like to remotely control some interior, exterior lights, would like to remote view security cameras (which I have not purchased) and perhaps entry sensors on my front and back door.

I came across the Wink system at HD while I was shopping to replace an digital timer for my porch lights. The system sounds simple and something that can work. After doing some research the reviews on Amazon are less than stellar. I have wiring and basic networking experience. Most of my house is running on Cat5e that I ran a few years ago. I need to make some changes and relocate my modem, router, Ooma and such to my office for simplicity. So I have a large wiring project on my plate come January. If I can expand it and add automation and security I would be interested.

[atc4usmc]

Honeywell

I have a honeywell Vista 20 system with a Tuxedo Touch keypad that fits my needs perfectly. This system is a pro install only so you would have to have an installer come in to install and program. That being the only downside for me, I can control lights and doorlocks with the system (Zwave devices) and create scenes. I have my lights set to come on and then go off outside at a specific time. You can do this for lights within your house while you are away..or do that remotely as well. Also, I have the system set up so when we come in the back door and disarm the system, if its dark outside, the light in the hallway will come on to light our way..

You can also add camera's to this system as well however I have Foscam camera's and wasnt able to get them configured easily. Not saying it cant be done, I just gave up on it as I use them through another app on my phone anyway.

Bottom line, do your research and ask for lots of opinions so you can make the best choice for your needs. Definately not something that you want to spend a lot of money on and then not be happy with it!

Good luck!

[MaHoTex]

I have a honeywell Vista 20 system with a Tuxedo Touch keypad that fits my needs perfectly. This system is a pro install only so you would have to have an installer come in to install and program.

Not necessarily. E-bay has everything you need and then you are not stuck with a contract, you can add sensors as needed for a fraction of the cost plus no stranger is in your house with intimate knowledge of how and where the system was installed. Win. Win. Win.

Downside is you have to pay up front for the equipment instead of it being hidden in a monthly contract with ADT or some such place. Cost of a Vista 20 with touchpad Tuxedo and a pile of sensors would shake out in the $700-$1K range depending on what you want.

The systems (Ademco) are generally easy to install. System programming is a pain in the arse, though not real difficult. I have never messed with a Vista 20 w/ Tuxedo, but I suspect programming has improved over the prior models which are a PITA on a good day.

[the86d]

Don't pay to store camera video remotely... you don't know who is watching your kids getting dressed in the living room (even when they are not supposed to, because they do..).
If the company gets sold, it may be even worse...

If you want to get a monitored system, most systems are really under $900, and for a functional system, with smash-protection you don't even have to pay THAT much:

http://www.safemart.com/category-alarm-systems-3684.htm#whs

http://www.geoarm.com/home-security-systems.html

I think I paid <$500 for mine, however the system I bought used sensors from my old system, so I got double the sensors now.

"Crash and smash" protection is desirable: http://suretycam.com/how-to-defeat-a...-smash-attack/
I think most "current" systems can support smash-protection for an additional $5/month on top of a monitoring fee. It looks like you can get dual-path GSM AND IP monitoring for $15/month, if you have the equipment (or buy it), and are willing to to sign a 2(?) year contract: http://www.geoarm.com/dual-monitoring-brands.html
or just over that: http://www.safemart.com/alarm-system-monitoring.html

[stonith3901]

Home automation I use Insteon. Sends the signal through the wires and also via RF in a TCP fashion where devices ACK the commands and redistributes like a mesh network. X10 is like UDP. Anyway, Its been running for 3+ years. To trigger the security cameras I use the API of Insteon and also Axis camera API (which is incredibly robust), maybe throw a cronjob or two here and there.

[DVSmith]

I installed a Honeywell WiFi thermostat so that kim jong un can control my environment.

[WizeWizard]

Home automation isn't there yet. There is a group outta OC working on a all-in-one kit now. Probably launch 2016. I'd hold off. Or go for it and Be prepared for lots of confusion. Not necessarily on your part. But others that may occupy your home

[Clever]

I have been in the CCTV industry for 20 years. What do you exactly expect out of your system. With proper cameras and a good DVR you can do anything under the sun. How can I help you.