Supervised vs Unsupervised

nov0798

Active Member
Ok, I have a question. Ive looked around, but what is the difference between supervised and non supervised zones on the Elk M1?

Can someone please explain?

Also, can you use a serial to ethernet converter to access the M1 on your home network?

Thanks
 
...the difference between supervised and non supervised zones on the Elk M1?
....can you use a serial to ethernet converter to access the M1 ..?
Supervised means the M1 can detect if there is a problem with the circuit. For example, Output 2 is supervised. If it is open or shorted, the M1 will indicate "Trouble". That's why the manual indicates you must add a terminating resistor if you don't attach a siren to Output 2. The M1 wants to see some kind of load on output 2 otherwise it considers it to be defective.

The same principle applies to zones if you define them to be 'EOL Supervised'. These type of zones require a resistor in series with the detection switch (resistor is installed at the End Of the Line).

Yes, you certainly can use a serial-to-Ethernet adapter. ELK makes one and you can read more about it here.
 
Actually, I was wondering if you could use someone else's serial to ethernet adapter? The ELK module seems a little pricey for what it does.

As for the supervised zones, is this also for alerting when a zone is opened when the system is disarmed, such as someone opening the garage dorr, etc?

Sorry for the questions!

Thanks again.
 
I've never tried it but I don't see why another brand wouldn't work.

Supervision is used exclusively to alert you to a failure condition. The M1 will only indicate Trouble if a supervised zone is not wired correctly (i.e. a short-circuit). A "violated zone" is not a failed zone but simply one that is not secured (i.e. the door is open).
 
Ok thanks. I guess Ill haveto try another brand and let you know.

I think this is what you'll really want... This has a built in server that has a Java client that will run in your web browser for remote control. It can also be used with the RP programming software. This module will also add the capability to send email based on rules.

Ethernet Interface
 
Just to add some clarity on the supervisory question... On a non-supervised zone, the panel always sees it as being a closed circuit (assume normally closed circuit)... Say this is on your window, and you have wood siding... Someone pulls a panel off your siding and finds the wire, peels back the sheath exposing the wire, and shorts the two wires together... They can then open the window and it'll still look closed because the wire is shorted now just as what the sensor would do.

Now if you had an End Of Line resistor for supervision, the contact would have a resistor between it and the alarm panel, so if someone pulls the above trick, the panel goes from seeing 2100 Ohms of resistance to 0 resistance, indicating tampering.

Hope that makes sense... basically it's an extra safety in case you're worried about someone getting to your wiring and tampering with it. The alarm installers I've talked to don't bother unless there's a reasonable expectation that the wire can be gotten to... and use things like Glass Break and Motion sensors instead.

It all comes down to how smart of a burglar you're trying to stop, and how much time/effort you want to spend stopping them. Realistically, I think most people hope for the deterrent factor to kick in before any of the rest matters.
 
Todd B, thanks that does make sense.

BKLLC
Yes that is what I want, but without the price! I was wondering of you could still control it via lan/internet, etc using another manufacturers products?

Thanks
 
Todd B, thanks that does make sense.

BKLLC
Yes that is what I want, but without the price! I was wondering of you could still control it via lan/internet, etc using another manufacturers products?

Thanks


The hardware really becomes a secondary issue ie: ok you've got an interface, now what.... how are you going to create the software thats going to generate the serial commands that talk to the M1... You can send them programatically or via a terminal program but thats not the way you should go.. I'm suggesting the price tag on the interface also includes the built in software so that you can instantly use your browser to control things. check setnetpro.com for a price.
 
Basic connectivity to the M1 using an Ethernet to serial module including the ELK IP232 works, but numerous features will not be available including:

  • Touchscreen setup distribution to all touchscreens.
  • Virtual keypad webpage.
  • Email delivery.
  • M1 Packet buffering for quick response on touchscreens.
  • Ethernet alarm reporting and supervision sensing to central station.
  • Several features used by New upcoming ELKRMS software.
  • Time server time update.
  • Dyndns update message.
  • Password control firewall when using web browser.
 
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