Hi,
I'm brand new to the forum, and I'm seeking some advice on setting up an Elk M1 security system. My wife and I have purchased our first home. It's in an "up-and-coming" neighborhood and we definitely want a security system. The house is old and I'll need to go wireless for the most part. I'd like to get the essentials first, but plan ahead for expansion--cameras and home automation. Here's what I'd like to setup:
Immediate needs...
A wireless alarm system, monitoring, GSM modem link, siren, keypad, programmable via PC, etc. (Probably the Elk M1 Gold.)
glass break sensor, wireless glass shock sensors, sliding window contacts, door contacts, garage door sensor, outdoor gate sensor
I'm skipping indoor motions as we have a 90 lbs dog.
Here are my questions:
1. What Elk M1 package should I go with? I'm trying to keep costs down as much as possible. M1GSYS4S? Then add the ISY-99i later?
2. What are the best wireless contacts/sensors to use? I can't find anyone discussing this. Are they all the same? Are they all compatible with the M1?
3. What sort of contact can I use on a wooden back gate? This is a very insecure part of the property, and I'd like to know whenever anyone enters. Maybe a motion would be better?
4. Who is a good monitoring company?
5. How reliable is the GSM modem? How can you monitor how many "bars" of reception you are getting? Or, should I go ahead and opt for a landline?
6. What else am I overlooking? Any other advice for a security system novice?
I appreciate any and all input. Thanks!
4string
I'm brand new to the forum, and I'm seeking some advice on setting up an Elk M1 security system. My wife and I have purchased our first home. It's in an "up-and-coming" neighborhood and we definitely want a security system. The house is old and I'll need to go wireless for the most part. I'd like to get the essentials first, but plan ahead for expansion--cameras and home automation. Here's what I'd like to setup:
Immediate needs...
A wireless alarm system, monitoring, GSM modem link, siren, keypad, programmable via PC, etc. (Probably the Elk M1 Gold.)
glass break sensor, wireless glass shock sensors, sliding window contacts, door contacts, garage door sensor, outdoor gate sensor
I'm skipping indoor motions as we have a 90 lbs dog.
Here are my questions:
1. What Elk M1 package should I go with? I'm trying to keep costs down as much as possible. M1GSYS4S? Then add the ISY-99i later?
2. What are the best wireless contacts/sensors to use? I can't find anyone discussing this. Are they all the same? Are they all compatible with the M1?
3. What sort of contact can I use on a wooden back gate? This is a very insecure part of the property, and I'd like to know whenever anyone enters. Maybe a motion would be better?
4. Who is a good monitoring company?
5. How reliable is the GSM modem? How can you monitor how many "bars" of reception you are getting? Or, should I go ahead and opt for a landline?
6. What else am I overlooking? Any other advice for a security system novice?
I appreciate any and all input. Thanks!
4string
