Which way to go -- elk m1g or vista 21p?

[thatman]

I've been looking at the M1G and vista 21ip


0) Which would you go with -- M1G or 21IP?

Based on your answer to 0, I need your recommendation on which of the following to get:

1) Wireless door/window sensors
2) Wired door/window sensors
3) Ethernet/IP/Wireless interface to connect to home network
4) Smoke detector
5) CO detector
6) Keypad (prefer touchscreen, though I have iphones/ipads avail as well)

I want to start with a system that handles security (30 windows, 5 doors) and expand into home automation.

Will I need any expansion cards for 30 wireless window sensors?

Thanks!

 

[tmbrown97]

That's somewhat a matter of personal choice... How much further do you want to go in Home Automation? And have you decided on using other technologies like Z-Wave, Insteon or UPB?

A very popular option around here has been the Elk M1G because it's an awesome security controller and it has a lot of automation capabilities. I use mine for 90% of my automation because it's at the heart and can directly control everything in the house (sprinklers, garage doors, lights, hvac) and knows what's going on in the house - it knows if I'm home or not and what rooms we're in and what doors open - so it's easy to do automation based on things like if the garage door opens while the house is armed, turn on lights from the garage door to the kitchen.

With wireless, you have the option of Honeywell of GE sensors. One of the professional alarm installers on the board does offer up Honeywell as being his favorite; often GE was the most popular because their products are easier to find in certain distribution chains. Either will yield similar results in the end. A single receiver will handle 100+ contacts as long as they're in range; sometimes you need more than one depending on layout of the property but I'm covering a 4000sq ft house with a single one just fine.

Elk has a couple touchscreen options - and there are apps for iOS and Android that work great.

That said, the Vista 21P I believe to be a perfectly capable system with some automation capabilities - we just don't see nearly as much talk of it here. The Tuxedo is a nice out-of-box touch-screen solution, but I believe it's intended to be more of a closed eco-system, whereas working with things like Elk or HAI and the associated software is a completely open platform with limitless integration options.

Just my $.02 - others can certainly add other perspectives.

 

[thatman]

Thanks for the reply...

I'd love to eventually build out fuller home automation, but it's several months down the line. As for technology, I've been leaning toward Z-Wave or Insteon. Do you have thoughts on which way to go with that?

 

[Del91574]

Honestly, it's a comparison of 2 completely different platforms and capabilities. I've installed 1000's of Vista's since '96. From the old 41 series up to the 250 FBP's and the P series. Also plenty of M1's since they first came out.

If you were staying clear of detailed automation and events, the Vista's are completely capable devices, but if you're doing anything that requires real customization or possible boolean, I would go to the Elk.

Both manufacturers would require an appropriate RF receiver.

In the case of the Elk, it can support Honeywell or GE wireless,even both on the same system with appropriate receivers installed, so device variety and type is a moot point.