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
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