Some General Security System Questions
I've spent a couple hours searching here and the internet and can't seem to find a few basic answers to some questions I have.
1) I have a Brinks system today, and am considering dumping them for a less expensive monthly (or yearly) remote monitoring option, as well as give me the ability to interface with HS. Does the DSC, Caddx, etc. all have the ability to be monitored remotely by a security company? I get an insurance discount if so.
2) Do all of the typical options today (DSC, Caddx, Elk, HAI, etc) work fine with VOIP phone lines? I know Brinks had to upgrade my controller when I switched to VOIP. I understand the issues of using VOIP for monitored security.
3) What are typical monthly/yearly costs for remote monitoring if I install a system myself (just for security, no fire or extras right now)? I've paid $22-$29/month with Brinks over the years. I'd love something that is $200 or less over 12 months (or paid yearly). Does anyone recommend any national remote monitoring companies or ones local to the Houston,TX area?
4) If I merely want to monitor status of doors and zones, as well as arm/disarm the entire system and/or zones remotely via Homeseer, I assume I can go with a less expensive DSC or Caddx system. Right? Is the IT-100 and HS plugin all that is required for the DSC to integrate with HS? I can't tell yet if the Caddx requires integration with a HA controller or if it can integrate at a low cost with HS.
5) I have a fully wired system today with contacts on all windows and doors with two panels. I'm assuming I can simply replace the 2 panels and controller and hook into the existing sensor wires, siren, and phone line. Is this a safe assumption?
6) The security system I have came with my house and was a Brinks system already. I simply continued remote monitoring with Brinks. If you dump Brinks, do they take the hardware back? Or is it typically yours to keep? My monthly bill only says "remote monitoring" so if the original owner bought via Brinks, it's not called out in my monthly bill. So I'm hoping it's paid for and mine to keep should I dump my Brinks contract.
Thanks in advance for any info...
Ben
1) I have a Brinks system today, and am considering dumping them for a less expensive monthly (or yearly) remote monitoring option, as well as give me the ability to interface with HS. Does the DSC, Caddx, etc. all have the ability to be monitored remotely by a security company? I get an insurance discount if so.
2) Do all of the typical options today (DSC, Caddx, Elk, HAI, etc) work fine with VOIP phone lines? I know Brinks had to upgrade my controller when I switched to VOIP. I understand the issues of using VOIP for monitored security.
3) What are typical monthly/yearly costs for remote monitoring if I install a system myself (just for security, no fire or extras right now)? I've paid $22-$29/month with Brinks over the years. I'd love something that is $200 or less over 12 months (or paid yearly). Does anyone recommend any national remote monitoring companies or ones local to the Houston,TX area?
4) If I merely want to monitor status of doors and zones, as well as arm/disarm the entire system and/or zones remotely via Homeseer, I assume I can go with a less expensive DSC or Caddx system. Right? Is the IT-100 and HS plugin all that is required for the DSC to integrate with HS? I can't tell yet if the Caddx requires integration with a HA controller or if it can integrate at a low cost with HS.
5) I have a fully wired system today with contacts on all windows and doors with two panels. I'm assuming I can simply replace the 2 panels and controller and hook into the existing sensor wires, siren, and phone line. Is this a safe assumption?
6) The security system I have came with my house and was a Brinks system already. I simply continued remote monitoring with Brinks. If you dump Brinks, do they take the hardware back? Or is it typically yours to keep? My monthly bill only says "remote monitoring" so if the original owner bought via Brinks, it's not called out in my monthly bill. So I'm hoping it's paid for and mine to keep should I dump my Brinks contract.
Thanks in advance for any info...
Ben
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