Security needed, no automation. Best system?

[FredFlintstone]

Hello,
 
Noob here.
 
I would like to add a security only system to a shop building but do not need automation.
 
I would like to have cellular connectivity, hardwire or wireless capability, door & window sensors, etc.
 
I looked at the Omni line, but too much automation = too much $$$.
 
Looking for basic capabilities, one keypad, excellent quality, monitored system.
 
I would consider installing myself although I am not an electronics guy, but pretty handy in the shop.
 
Any help or direction would be appreciated.
 
Sincerely,
 
Fred

 

[RAL]

Welcome to Cocoontech!
 
A good system is the Honeywell Vista 20P.  If your needs are small and you don't think you'll expand much, the 15P might also do the job (though it only saves a few bucks). The basic panel sells for about $50.  You'll need to add a keypad, battery, wireless receiver and cellular communicator.   And maybe a wired zone expansion board if you need more than 8 wired zones.
 
Installation isn't difficult if you can do basic wiring.  The instructions aren't aimed at beginners, but there are lots of YouTube videos that can help you learn, and there are many folks here on Cocoontech that can answer questions and offer advice as well. Probably the most difficult part is programming the panel for all the options that need to be set.  The videos are helpful with that as well.

 

[Del91574]

I'd probably suggest a 20P also. I've installed all the major manufacturers over the years and for build quality, expand ability and robustness, it'd be my go to. Also easy for an end user, supports a lot of devices and expansion natively.
 
DSC is the other manufacturer others push towards, but I've had build quality issues in the past and programming is really not fun on them.
 
I'd steer away from GE (Interlogix) for a few reasons although some like their products.

 

[FredFlintstone]

Thank you gentlemen,
 
I had a Vista in a previous life and it served me well.
 
For some reason I am gravitating towards a wired system. Should I consider a wireless system? Are wireless systems secure? It seems like installation would be comparatively easy.
 
Thanks again!
 
Fred

 

[drvnbysound]

The Vista-20P is a hard wired system. Although it can have wireless receiver(s) added to it, allowing wireless devices as well. 

 

[RAL]

My preference is to use wired sensors when it is practical. For new construction, I would run wires everywhere and get to 100% wired.  But in existing construction, wireless can be much, much easier to install. Though a skilled installer can get wires just about anywhere.  In my house, I use a mix of wired and wireless sensors.
 
A good wireless system will be reliable and secure. The alarm panel keeps tabs on the sensors and will report any that don't "check in" for too long a period.
 
In theory, a wireless system can be jammed, but jamming attempts can be detected by some wireless receivers.  But overall, I'd say jamming is not a big worry.  Someone attempting to jam the system would need to know which wireless system is installed and what frequency to jam it on. Most thieves aren't that sophisticated.

 

[FredFlintstone]

I would also like to use wired sensors, where practical. Am I required to use Vista sensors? If not, is there a certain architecture or type that I look for?
 
I will be needing the following (I think):
5, Window
3, Exterior door
2, Interior door
2, Roll-up door
3, PIR
3, Fire
 
Some will be easier than others to wire, some will be wireless. Only one keypad is necessary.
 
A cellular communicator will be use as well, either stand alone, or as a backup to VOIP phone.
 
No plans for smoke or motion.

 

[RAL]

Most wired sensors are universal, in that they are simply switches that open and close.  So you can use any brand with any panel.  An exception to this is 2-wire smoke detectors, where you need to use detectors that are approved for use with the particular alarm panel.
 
For door, a recessed contact will be the least visible.  But you can also use surface mount contacts where a recessed contact isn't practical.  On exterior doors, if they are steel, and you want to use a recessed contact, make sure you choose one that is meant for steel doors.  Measure the gaps that any of these contacts need to work across and choose accordingly.
 
You can also use recessed contacts on windows. These usually are placed in the sill.  But check if drilling the windows will void any warranty that the window might have.  Surface mount contacts can also be used.  Many folks like the Tane Pill for surface mount, as they are small and not too visible.
 
There are special contacts for rollup and overhead doors.
 
Some popular manufacturers of magnetic contacts:
 
https://www.security.honeywell.com/hsc/products/intruder-detection-systems/sensor/contact/
http://www.interlogix.com/intrusion/category/wired-sensing
http://www.grisk.com/magnetic-reed-switches.php
http://www.tanealarm.com/products/
 
You say you have no plans for smoke or motion, but you listed PIR and Fire.
 
For PIR detectors, again, there are many choices. Think about whether you need one that is pet immune.   I have some of the Bosch Blue Line TriTech detectors which use PIR and microwaves to reduce false alarms from pets.
 
For smoke detectors, there are also lots of choices.  Many folks recommend the System Sensor i3 or i4 series.  Also heat detectors for locations like the garage.

 

[FredFlintstone]

Thank you!
 
Time to do some research.

 

[gull45]

Great tips on here, especially for those links RAL. We are leaning towards  System Sensor i3 as mostly recommended. Thinking for a heat detector as well for the garage right after we finished installing these Smittybilt parts on the current Jee project.

 

[CarolP]

Hello,
 
Noob here.
 
I would like to add a security only system to a shop building but do not need automation.
 
I would like to have cellular connectivity, hardwire or wireless capability, door & window sensors, etc.
 
I looked at the Omni line, but too much automation = too much $$$.
 
Looking for basic capabilities, one keypad, excellent quality, monitored system.
 
I would consider installing myself although I am not an electronics guy, but pretty handy in the shop.
 
Any help or direction would be appreciated.
 
Sincerely,
 
Fred

A good sensor would ensure prompt intimation when a burglar picks a lock or climbs a window by sounding an alarm (from a loud siren to triggering your home security system). They would send alerts to your smartphone.
A decent performing deadbolt locking system solely won't be enough to prevent possible break-ins or potential danger. Check for the quality door and window sensors online or in your nearby store. Check for their reviews also.
When we check for options to fortify our security, one should start from windows and doors. A large percentage of burglaries happen to break in through the windows and doors. Doors are our first line of defense. These days good bolt locks ensure sturdy doors. Studies show that entry doors play a pivotal role in providing adequate safety to your home (http://canglow.ca/choosing-the-right-entry-door-for-your-home/). Thus choose the right entry door, not just sensors.
Ensure that the material you choose can withstand any attack. 
I would suggest you settle for wireless, simply because they are battery powered and has a dedicated cellular connection. They are good at trouble shooting and notify low battery.