Elk M1 Gold vs EZ8

[123]

...
however with my only real concern is to replace my old but functional alarm with something new(er) and able to integrate into Homeseer I have found options... either of the elk systems or something else.....
...

Ideally, you want to replace the existing ADT-supplied security controller with something that will:

• work with your existing wireless devices
• allow you choose a monitoring company
• work with Homeseer
• be inexpensive

Have you looked into an alarm panel from DSC?

• DSC supports wireless devices (you'll need to confirm that yours are included).
• You can choose a monitoring company (although I don't know how a DSC works with NextAlarm).
• I believe there's a DSC plug-in for Homeseer.
• The base price of a 16-zone DSC is very affordable.

If you simply want an alarm panel then the DSC may be the way to go.

FWIW, I had considered replacing my old DSC panel (circa 1995) with a new one but chose the Elk M1. The DSC needed many modules ($) to approach the functionality provided by the M1.

 

[TeleFragger]

eyyyup that sums it up...
ill look into that one too...


appreciate it..
Jeff

 

[linuxha]

I HATE the fact that my W800 will only interface to the computer.

I will be purchasing an Elk system and since I have a Linux server the two will become as one (I'll get the Ethernet interface). I haven't decided exactly what to get but I am looking forward to this. BTW, I have a small Linux server (ARM w/32M ram and a 2G CF card). That will be my central controller eventually but it won't replace the Elk. My idea of HA has always been distributed processing that can stand alone on failure.

Oh and to make this message relate to the above, there's a Linux interface to the W800 and there's perl code to talk to the Elk M1 Ethernet interface. It doesn't take much imagination from there.

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

A Caddx NX8e (with keypad and power supply) is $180 from Worthingtons with $35 or so for a second keypad.

The NX8e has an onboard serial port that will interface to HomeSeer via Nitrox's or Jasv's plugins.

This will only do eight zones and MIGHT be compatible with your current wireless system... Just remember what I said about Caddx earlier though....

 

[Steve]

I don't think DSC will support ITI wireless. I think it would be best to stick with the GE Concord or Caddx in this case.

 

[Mike]

From looking at the original post and the fact that Homeseer, X10, and Insteon are being used I would lean towards the M1G. It just seems the seed has been planted and you would grow into the system, especially after getting more familiar. However, if cost is the motivator there is a few hundred dollar difference (at least) assuming that the wireless sensors would work (seems they are similar but I am not an expert).

If you have the room in the budget after the tax return is done, and have any inkling of taking things further, try for the M1G. If not go for the lower end replacement.

It just seems to me that someone who is using Homeseer, X10 and Insteon is someone who would 'need' an M1G... Changing your mind later would risk the few hundred in a low end system. I am, as UpstateMike put it, a Type B person as well though. I bought an M1G and love it (although I no longer have the time to expand it that I once had).

 

[TeleFragger]

ok so can someone help me with a shopping list for elk gold and a seperate list of what is needed for the cheaper elk?
I just dontk now what I need.....

ok so the elk maybe overkill however I just need to compair...

example is since adt said that all my devices will work with the concord 4.. did my own homework and have come up with this...

how does this quote sound:
www.home-technology-store.com

$179 panel GE-80-966-4
$025 IM-1240 - 4Ah 12V Sealed Lead Security System Battery Back-up
$030 GE-600-1024 - GE Concord X10 Powerline Transformer
$035 GE-60-659-95R - 4 Button Keychain Remote

prices are without shipping


safemart.com
$255 for same stuff above

also I can ebay the wireless keypad for $40 but is a tad tacky