ELK etc... versus zwave?

[brdweb]

So I'm buying a new home and won't be able to run wires easily. What I plan on setting up A/V and HA using Mi Casa Verde and iRule.

My question is what real advantages other than reliability do security systems really offer? There are zwave door locks, motion sensors, alarms, cameras, etc...

 

[Big517]

Reliability IS the key. I am blown away with Elks reliability. And use it to compliment some rules on my Vera (turn output on to trigger scene etc.) I have the setup you are describing and I'm happy with it. The only issues i run into are caused by network traffic. Otherwise I can't complain

 

[Frunple]

First, your topic is confused. Elk vs Zwave? Zwave is a protocol that elk uses so they aren't 'enemies'.
Second, comparing a Vera to a full featured system is the same as ... well I can think of a million analogies, don't want to hurt anyones feelings so I'll just say Vera doesn't compare.
 
Don't get me wrong, Vera is good for what it is.

 

[ddennerline]

Depending on how many types of Z-Wave devices your system requires, M1XSLZW may be only secondary controller required. I have door locks and lights, the M1 rule language is sufficient to control these devices. If you want to control a larger selection of Z-Wave devices and use more complex logic, then a more sophisticated controller would be helpful.
 
If you primary focus is a security system, then it would probably be better to use GE/Ademco wireless door and motion sensors. The Elk is listed as UL approved security device (albeit there a number of installation requirements to meet certification).

 

[tmbrown97]

Depends on if you want Security or Automation.  Z-Wave can't legally dispatch the cops upon breakin and isn't reliable enough for such.  
 
I use an Elk for security then use UPB (another lighting protocol like Z-Wave) for lighting; etc - I'm thinking about adding Z-Wave to the mix for more automation-centric devices like adding motion sensors to all the kids' rooms (I use X10 motion sensors today) and door lock control but it'll be secondary to the Elk.
 
Z-Wave is an interesting protocol but it seems to suffer the bigger you try to grow it - at least that's my observation from hanging around here.  It's certainly about the cheapest (other than X10) and quite prevalent, but also has a wide range of quality and lots of compatibility issues and feature differences - so while it's a "standard" it's not one that's always implemented the same way.  Again - fine for automation, but more reasons why it can't be used for security.