Looking for guidance on home security/automation....

[SlowEddie]

Gentlemen,

Currently I have an ADT home security system that was installed 3 years ago. My contract just ended and I am now month to month and want to explore my options. I'm looking for a home automation/home security system that I can view on Android Tablets on my local wifi network as well as my Android phone when I am off location. I want full functionality of the lights, be able to turn the alarm off and on, check the status of sensors etc., and view my non proprietary IP cameras all from the same Android app and also on my wife's iphone.

Am I asking too much? It would also be nice to receive text messages when sensors were tripped. I have been looking at the Vera 3, but it seems that is just for automation, with a plug in module for a DSC alarm panel. I have also looked into the Elk M1. I am hoping to use all z-wave protocol sensors for the alarm system and the automation.

There are so many options out there, but what I seem to be struggling with most is software. The Vera has apps to view your home automation, but not the security system, and for the cameras you need to buy only the expensive ones they support. I want to wall mount android tablets in my house and be able to see and control everything in one place without having to bounce in and out of 3 different apps (automation/security/ip cameras).

Please guide me!

Thankyou.

Eddie

 

[naething]

I don't think you are asking too much. Wanting full control from your smart phone is a common request!

I use a Vera with a DSC security system, but there are plugins for a few other systems as well. I can both control my security system (alarm and disarm) and view the sensor status from one of the Android apps that supports Vera (AutHomation, Home Buddy). Other alarm systems should work similarly.

I have several dozen z-wave devices and I really like z-wave. That being said I would go with a security system for door, window, and motion sensors. The sensors are cheaper and nicer. That it just advice in general if you go with Vera or not.

I also can view my cheap security cameras (really cheap, I just use $7 usb webcams attached to embedded linux boxes) with Vera. If you want a camera than can pan maybe you need to go with something expensive to get full support, but I think plenty of cheaper options are available as well. I think any DVR security system that has jpeg/mjpeg output should work with Vera.

Not trying to push you to Vera, that is just all I really know. I would check out the AutHomation videos and see if that is an interface you would be ok with: http://www.youtube.c...utHomation/feed

 

[tmbrown97]

The above advice is good advice; other popular options around here are the Elk M1 Gold or the HAI Omni - both extremely expandable and have apps for all the popular smartphones.

 

[SlowEddie]

Thank you for the replies. I am leaning towards the Vera with a Dsc panel and the authomation app for control. There are some helpful folks at the micasaverde forums.

Thank you.