Home Security System Monitoring

[Wakey]

Was wondering what services any of you are using for security monitoring. I plan on using an IP based communication since I don't have home land phone lines.

I don't need to go with a local security company because I can service the system myself and frankly, I don't care to pay their prices for monitoring.

Thanks!

 

[Parkanzky]

I've been looking at something like Simplicam or Dropcam. For $150-200, you get a wifi camera that can see in the dark and notifies you of movement. It also allows for two-way communication (audio). For a small monthly fee, you can opt for cloud storage of the files.

They don't have a bunch of zones or additional sensors though, so if you want something more sophisticated you'll have to let us know what you find.

Here's the system in my Amazon wish-list right now: Amazon.com : simplicam HD WiFi Home Video Monitoring Camera : Camera & Photo

 

[davesl708]

There are several packages available for the diy that allows internet monitoring and control. I use a simple system with cameras that I can view from anywhere using the internet including my cell phone.

Do a search and you will find a host of options from a simple system like mine to very sophisticated.

BTW. I don't trust security companies. They have access to your system. Remember the BTK killer in Wichita, KS? He used records from the security company he worked for to help locate victims. They can also see what is in your home.

 

[Wakey]

I've installed the system, nobody needs to come to my home. No cameras, just monitoring of the alarm.

I looked around online and the more reviews I read, the more convinced I was that they were faked or paid for ads masquerading as real user reviews.

That's why I'm asking here.

 

[farmer2009]

Try these people. Security Central - Nationwide Central Station Monitoring
We use them for the poultry alarms. You can set a list of 4 numbers and they will call until they get an answer. We pay $150.00 a year. We have 4 zones one for each barn and they tell us which zone.

 

[ddbackhoe]

Try these people. Security Central - Nationwide Central Station Monitoring
We use them for the poultry alarms. You can set a list of 4 numbers and they will call until they get an answer. We pay $150.00 a year. We have 4 zones one for each barn and they tell us which zone.

Why not get an auto-dialer and stop paying the fee?

Auto Dialer | Telephone Alarm Auto Dialer | Auto Alarm Dialer

a wireless system with autodialer may be an answer too.
Home Security - Packaged Deals

 

[farmer2009]

Why not get an auto-dialer and stop paying the fee? Auto Dialer | Telephone Alarm Auto Dialer | Auto Alarm Dialer a wireless system with autodialer may be an answer too. Home Security - Packaged Deals

I have one of these ordered.
Sensaphone Remote Monitoring Solutions
I don't know the model yet. I just called my electrician and said I needed the one for a 4 house farm. I hope it gets here soon. It's been ordered for 2 weeks. It's an auto dialer.

 

[dieselalles]

We purchased a system from SimpliSafe. There's a basic kit that you can add components to. The base station has a built in cell phone that communicates with the alarm company so there's no wires. After you buy the system you don't have to purchase monthly monitoring unless you want to. But if you do, the base monitoring fee is $15 a month. For $20 a month it will send you text messages telling you when the system is armed/disarmed or when alarms go off. For $25 a month it will give you a web based account so that you can see more detail and tweak your settings remotely. We've been happy with it. The only issue we've had to deal with is our large Maine Coon cat jumps up on things as cats do and set the motion detectors off. I had to lower the sensitivity on those to account for her. And there's no contract with Simplisafe.

 

[Sysop]

I setup a ZWave smarthome controller and purchased various motion sensors and lighting controls (ADT's systems are based on ZWave technology). I have both an ISY994i-ZW and a VeraLite controller that I use at two separate locations. I prefer the ISY device over the Vera (even though the ISY is more expensive) due to the ability to program it exactly how you want without much fuss. Vera tries to do too much for you and fails.

You can go as simple or as complex as you want. I personally started with a very simple system. I purchased enough motion detectors to fill both of the houses at the farm and set the controller to email me anytime there is motion. I also set them to warn me when the batteries in the detectors go low.

It all went so well I wanted to do more.

The house in back is a pre-Civil War structure that was wired for electric lighting later on. No switches were wired and all the light sockets have pull strings. So I got some ZWave LED bulbs (I really hope they last the estimated 25 years) and have the system set with two programs, one is for when I'm home, other is for when I'm away. When I'm away, the motion detectors only email me when motion is detected. When I'm home, the motion detectors no longer email me on motion, but turn on the lights as I enter a room (which they do not do when in the "away" mode).

Either system can be operated from any web browser on any device.

Since then I've also added other things like leak sensors and power relays so if there is water detected in the well cellar, the power gets cut off from the pump automagically. I also keep temperature monitors on the system to alert me if the fire in the well cellar goes out so there is no chance of freezing up of a winter.

I run the entire system on a battery backup device that emails me if the power goes out and when it is restored, and use a Cradlepoint branded router that allows me to use both a wired internet connection and have a cellular backup connection. Even put a motion detector in the back of the mailbox to know when the mail arrives.

 

[truckdiagnostics]

I have isy994i also anyway. Have you tried this for remote connect https://www.teamviewer.com/en/index.aspx lots of potential app for your phone. Used it for years. Actually talked to the guy that started the company, bout 15 years ago.