Basic questions on Elk installation

[slipnfall]

Hi Folks,
I recently purchased my first house and am in my glory with all of these new options [toys] available for me now. My plans are to install an Elk M1G system, with just some basic options to start. Before purchassing a complete kit, I have just some basic questions.

First off, do you think it's a good idea to go ahead and just install a larger can/enclosure for the M1? The one in the kits doesn't look large enough to really put many expander board, or optional add-ons. I have a seperate 19" rack for all my phone/network stuff, so I plan to put future video connections there as well.

Maybe it would help to explain my intended setup: as I said, basic install on a split-foyer home. Access to attic and unfinished basement(I think of it as the basement, it's actually the lower floor). The baseline will consist of wired contact sensors on 3-4windows, 3doors, 3-4 PIR's, 3 glass breaks, and two panels.

Next, can the 'listen-in interface' on the M1's be used for an intercom system? From what I gather this is only to call into the home, or have a central station call and check/listen in. Is there a way to achieve intercom functionality with the M1 without adding a complete seperate system?

Last one (sorry for the winded first post)... I have a detached garage, maybe 100-125' away from the house. Running conduit to the garage is a *very* last resort ( have to pass under a driveway, and go below grade into the basement). What is the most elegant way to link the house and garage? I would like to secure the garage with a PIR and contact sensor, yet need to be able to park my car inside and disarm the house/garage system. I have come across some wireless RS232/485 interfaces before...

I plan to add numerous other components to the system, but I think I've made this post long enough.

Thanks for reading!
Jamie

 

[WayneW]

1) welcome to CocoonTech
2) yes, larger cans are better
3) the listen-in interface is not an in-house intercom, but I think it allows 2 way conversation with the calling party.
4) I think using wireless sensors and a keyfob for arming/disarming will do what you want.

 

[slipnfall]

Thanks for the welcome Wayne. So there are wireless keyfob readers? Otherwise I would have to make a mad dash to the house to swipe it, or have an undesirable long delay.

 

[Spanky]

Welcome slipnfall.

I sounds like the distance to your garage is within the range of a wireless receiver. You can use the GE/Caddx keyfobs, door and windows transmitters, and motion detectors. You can use the NX-548 48 zone wireless receiver or the soon to be released ELK M1XRF 144 zone wireless receiver.

If you are doing a major automation installation you will probably need more space than is in a 14 inch metal can. ELK has a 28 inch can or you can use multiple cans. Other companies have 42 and 60 inch cans.

 

[WayneW]

The RF receiver would be at your house. Then you would put RF transmitter motion and contact sensors in the garage. You would carry a keyfob on your person, similar to a car security keyfob. These are very different from the RFID badges that have a very short range or have to be swiped. I am referring to the GE/Caddx RF system, which is supported by the M1. In the future, Elk will be offering their own RF receiver, but you would still use the Caddx sensors & fobs.

http://automatedoutlet.com/home.php?cat=106

 

[slipnfall]

Oh OK, nice: I didn't even consider those fobs. It sounds like this should be cut and dry: thanks for the replies. I'm sure I'll be back as i move along with this install.