Wifi Monitored DIY Security System

[cory58]

I am looking for a security system that meets my specific needs, so I just spent 30+ minutes searching GJ threads and Google searching and haven't found the "right" solution. Hopefully the combined genius of GJ can point me in the right direction. Here is what I would like (in a perfect world).

1. I have a small house with a 1500 sf garage approx 30-40 yards away. The house is empty except when I stay there a few times a month. I currently have two separate monitored Simplisafe systems for the house and garage. I tried to just install sensors in the garage and connect them to the house system, but the connection to the alarm brain was not strong enough to be reliable. I want to get rid of the Simplisafe systems.

2. New system needs to be DIY and wireless I am not an IT guy, so serious programming is beyond my ability, but I need the ability to add/delete devices.

3. I would like to have one system in the house with the garage devices connected to the alarm through wifi. The wifi signal from the house will be strong enough to use in the garage.

4. I don't plan to use the alarm for anything beyond basic alarm functions except maybe cameras, but can do without that.

5. I would like it professionally monitored through the existing internet connection at the house and would like to have basic functionality through my phone (on/off, system status, notifications). No long-term monitoring contract.

Any suggestions/information would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Cory

 

[tedo2007]

Going to be driving, but last thing you want is wireless.


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[JRC3]

5. I would like it professionally monitored through the existing internet connection at the house and would like to have basic functionality through my phone (on/off, system status, notifications). No long-term monitoring contract.

Have you talked to them for a solution?


If you find something that uses an Ethernet connection you can use an inexpensive wifi range extender. I have a D-Link DAP-1330 with LAN for my Smartthings hub. The hub is plugged into the extender inside the house and my cable modem and wifi router are in the detached garage. Has worked perfectly for almost two years.

Bought it at: https://www.menards.com/main/electr...95-c-13536.htm?tid=8423099585557157883&ipos=3

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PVE6C34/?tag=atomicindus08-20



And you would also extend your wireless range.

 

[56Safari]

I’d go with something from ubiquiti... I know you said you’re not an IT guy, but if you can configure a wireless router you could set this up. Nothing is wireless, and you would want a POE switch to power the cameras, but these are quality cameras and an easily upgradeable platform...


https://unifi-protect.ui.com

Be wary of cheap Chinese solutions on amazon, as they will send your camera images back to China, ask me how I know.


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[Showkey]

I use ORBI MESH router system.........main hub and two satellites. WiFi coverage is over 2 acres with 100 Mbps.

One satellite in the detached garage, allows for audio/video streaming , camera and security connections. If the shop camera detects motion sends a test to my phone with video. Currently not running an extra security system over the cameras.

There are several prior posts on MESH.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

I don't see the point of any of it. AFAIK, with the majority of the DIY and some of the "pro" systems, the crooks just cut your phone/fiber/cable and the entire system is down. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Tommy

 

[PelicanPines]

I don't see the point of any of it. AFAIK, with the majority of the DIY and some of the "pro" systems, the crooks just cut your phone/fiber/cable and the entire system is down. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Tommy

Mine will get you cutting the phone line. Would have also gotten you getting to where you could cut the line. Also got your licence plate when you scoped my house out.

If you get into my garage ... you will get nailed by another camera that is off line.

Cutting my power would do zero help in avoiding my systems... everything is on UPS.

Additionally. I am immediately notified if you cut my phone or my UPS fails.

If I'm home when you try anything...

 

[Git]

You could do everything except #5 (professional monitoring) using Z-Wave. Z-Wave uses it's own mesh network - 900 mhz, so the more devices you have the better it works.

You would need some sort of 'hub' (controller) and then you would add your devices. Things like door sensors, motion detectors, temps sensors, etc. The more sophisticated hubs, like HomeSeer, provide internet access so you can see what is going on, or even have it email you, etc in case of problems. You can create your own 'event's > if this door opens and the time is between this and that, then sound the alarm for 5 minutes, turn on all the lights and send me an email kind of thing. In additions, every time a door is open, closed, motion sensor gets tripped, etc, it will be logged

You never said what your budget is, but take a look at HomeSeer (that is what I use) there are free open-source alternative - 'openhab' for example

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=homeseer

 

[Showkey]

I don't see the point of any of it. AFAIK, with the majority of the DIY and some of the "pro" systems, the crooks just cut your phone/fiber/cable and the entire system is down. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Tommy

If your dealing witha professional thief.........any system can be defeated.

Personally think an alarm sign out front is more a deterrent than the system itself.

Casual thief.........most are not too smart or plan ahead. Cameras have memory card so they maybe captured on “film” on arrival. Most of the better systems have a cell connection and battery power.

Solution is live a in low crime area and have adequate insurance.

 

[tedo2007]

I’d go with something from ubiquiti... I know you said you’re not an IT guy, but if you can configure a wireless router you could set this up. Nothing is wireless, and you would want a POE switch to power the cameras, but these are quality cameras and an easily upgradeable platform...


https://unifi-protect.ui.com

Be wary of cheap Chinese solutions on amazon, as they will send your camera images back to China, ask me how I know.


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I gotta know, how you know? Lol


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[dw1]

I know you asked for security systems, but I had the same situation as you do, I lived a mile down the road, I bought this property and built a pole barn on it, I put a camera system up, cameras on and in the barn, I could pull them up on my phone, but anytime I had to meet someone there, they were always waiting in their vehicle after seeing the cameras. I have since built a house on that property, I added a second NVR/POE system, I can bring all the cameras up on my phone. Mine records 24/7 but you can set up alerts, motion ect, you can search cameras on here, there will be a years worth of reading. Hope this helps!

 

[JRC3]

I don't see the point of any of it. AFAIK, with the majority of the DIY and some of the "pro" systems, the crooks just cut your phone/fiber/cable and the entire system is down. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Tommy

For me, the cable comes from a pole at the back of my property line on to the back gable (15' high) of my detached garage where the modem, router and camera hdd are located in the attic.

An extra line and old smartphone on your cellular service would also be an option.

 

[manwithtools]

Take a look at Ring, Black Friday specials will make it affordable. It's completely DIY and professional monitoring is available. Chose the package you want and the senors you need, the rest is a mater of following instructions.

 

[rmanrman]

But the visual deterrents doesn’t stop an entry into your home to rip out your nvr recorder and steal and trash your home and shop for the average 7 minutes the break in takes and the 15-30 minutes for authorities to get there. I know retired 25 yrs doing security systems mostly residential. And that siren outside if you have one the neighbors don’t give a **** what’s happening just how long till that stupid noise goes away.
Try the best locks and brightest motion lighting in addition to cameras and security system
BTW no such place as a safe neighborhood myth
Drugs make people desperate and stupid. A nice house in a nice neighborhood attracts them like fly’s to ****. However the more difficult there’s a chance they’ll go next door to the idiots house without even a deadbolt lock.

 

[GTFiero]

Front Point 3/4G system w/monitoring. $40/mo

 

[JRC3]

... to rip out your nvr recorder.../QUOTE]
That's where an old or used up CL system "installed" in an obvious spot would be perfect.

 

[X53Gunner]

"Ring" System Im so impressed by it!

 

[Bigbandguy]

Mine is non monitored but someone is usually here. It is a cheap amazon system as mentioned above 5 cameras and will handle 8. I just didn't bother to connect to the net as I don't really want to look from afar. The hub is well secured and UPS backed. The alarm will get the authorities here in about 10 minutes and I WILL have pictures.

Not the best setup but the best for cheap.

 

[cory58]

OP here - thanks for all the responses! A lot of the suggestions are beyond my technical abilities and a lot of posts seems to focus on cameras, which are not my priority.

Ring systems seem very promising. They communicate among the devices using Z wave and I need to get comfortable that their range extender can get the signal to/from my metal garage.

Cory

 

[Bretny]

Most security systems are camera based now. Yes you can still get window opening and glass break sensors but i think those are all wired. It sounds like you want a pro system so ask a pro.

Its not really going to matter much of your window open sensor goes off at 1am and the guy leaves in 5min, cops come at 6min. At least with cameras you would have a picture of the guy and hopefully his license plate.


I have cameras at my house if you cant tell. Lol. An IP based system with 4k cameras and hidden NVR. Dosnt matter if you cut the cable wire its still recorded and the dogs are protecting the interior of the house.

 

[Git]

Watch this video - Smart Things hub with Z Wave Sensors

This is how you get started in Home Automation. You buy a hub - the Smart Things for example, and then you buy sensors for what you need. Everything is on it's own built in wireless network. Hidden door sensor (you drill a hole for it). Stick on door sensors, Motion Detectors, Sirens, you name it they got it. No monthly fees. As you get more advanced, you start using smart switches - you open a door, lights turn on kind of thing. Water leak sensor detects a leak under your kitchen sink or water heater, and it turns you main water valve off

Not for everyone, but you should take a look just to know what is available

 

[tricountytrail]

I use the Arlo camara's all wireless, Work great!

 

[PelicanPines]

Side note. I just got MyQ for my Chamberlain garage door openers... two.

I love it. It lets me know when my doors are opened, closed etc. I can now open, close both doors from my phone.

 

[JRC3]

Ring systems seem very promising. They communicate among the devices using Z wave and I need to get comfortable that their range extender can get the signal to/from my metal garage.

Cory

If it were me I'd put an outlet controller or dedicated Z-wave repeater in an exterior outlet box with a cover

Something like this. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M6CKJXC/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Put it inside of this. Mount it up high (like a gable) to prevent tampering and extend the range. https://www.homedepot.com/p/TAYMAC-1-Gang-Gray-Weatherproof- In-Use-Cover-MM420GB/302210710.

That or something like this if it works as a repeater too, a flood light motion controller that will also send notification. In fact, this might be the best overall option. Now I'm gonna get one.
https://shop.homeseer.com/products/...Yz3toNEDDPdzs8Yv-iRQZZfyt6AVrbihoCXsAQAvD_BwE

 

[Hookee]

Camera system - Unifi protect, you must run your own cable and know how to terminate cat5e/ethernet

Security system - nest protect, it can detect glass breaking in your house now, and has an optional cellular monitoring feature if you want to pay for it.

 

[JRC3]

My Wi-Fi drops off so often I wish this was even a damn option for me.

How old is your wifi router? Might be time to replace it.

 

[GarageFull]

I use just amazon cameras. My problem is the WiFi reception is pretty poor in my detached garage.

 

[jayoldschool]

Do an old school DSC system, monitor the panel yourself with this:

http://www.eyezon.com/

 

[bullnerd]

They just had on the news here recently, a guy went to check his phone to look in on his wifi security equipt house, and he was watching the neighbors kids playing in their living room a few doors down.

 

[dcg9381]

I use just amazon cameras. My problem is the WiFi reception is pretty poor in my detached garage.

You can deal with this via a repeater or by using a single Ubiquiti antenna pointed at the garage. Assuming your wifi is properly setup to avoid neighbors, etc.

Cameras do use a lot of bandwidth.

 

[Bruce Amacker]

Like everyone else, I am also overwhelmed with the choices and systems. I need a 4-8 camera system and have one odd problem- I don't have internet at the location. Can I use a Verizon (cellular) Jetpack as my internet source? It seems all of the systems need an input for an Ethernet cable but the jetpack does not have a port for one. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[ewa]

Simpli Safe w/o monitoring to scare them away. Blink cameras to make you aware something is going on.

 

[Bull1tt]

My garage is 150’ from my house. The Fios router is upstairs in the front of house. WiFi wouldn’t reach the garage. Replaced router with google nest router and two pods- only have one hooked up right now downstairs (first floor). Second is for garage, BUT, I have WiFi now in the garage with great speed! I will put in anyways. I bought three Wyze cameras at Home Depot for $26 each, they are 1080 res. Ordered microSD cards online and outdoor mounting brackets. Have one in a window just to test, but I’m pretty happy with what I see so far.

 

[Bull1tt]

Oh, and I will save $12 a month on equipment “rental” off my bill... for the **** router they supply!

 

[GRivera]

Oh, and I will save $12 a month on equipment “rental” off my bill... for the **** router they supply!

Is Google Nest router also a cable modem?

 

[Whiskeymike]

+1 on Ring. I have doorbell, 3 floodlight cameras and security system. Very happy, except I’d like 5 more camera floodlights.

They communicate by Wifi, so if you have Wifi in shop, you’ll be fine. I have 30x40 metal shop, Wifi insight connected to house via Ethernet cable.

 

[Mustang415]

I’d go with something from ubiquiti... I know you said you’re not an IT guy, but if you can configure a wireless router you could set this up. Nothing is wireless, and you would want a POE switch to power the cameras, but these are quality cameras and an easily upgradeable platform...


https://unifi-protect.ui.com

Be wary of cheap Chinese solutions on amazon, as they will send your camera images back to China, ask me how I know.


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Go on....


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[laser3kw]

Originally Posted by 56Safari View Post
..............
Be wary of cheap Chinese solutions on amazon, as they will send your camera images back to China, ask me how I know.

Count me in for one that wants to know.......

do they have some compromising pictures?

 

[theoldwizard1]

Like everyone else, I am also overwhelmed with the choices and systems. I need a 4-8 camera system and have one odd problem- I don't have internet at the location. Can I use a Verizon (cellular) Jetpack as my internet source?

Is the point for the Jetpack to act ONLY as the hub/router or do you want in to be "online" via your cell phone carrier ?

If it is just the first, than any cheap wireless router will do the job.

If you want to have your system "connect", then there are MANY choice for a "hot spot" that do have hardwired Ethernet ports. Yes, they will cost you $150-$250 but good ones will have external antenna(s) and at least 4 ports. External antenna is a good idea for the best cell signal.

Shop around for RV WiFi hot spots. Winegard and AT&T have a deal going for a limited time. Purchase a TOGO (meant to be mounted on an RV roof) for about $200 and you can buy a data plan for $360/year.

 

[OOBER]

I did a lot of research on this lately and ended up starting with a Eufy doorbell a couple of weeks ago. We have been really impressed so far.

Cliffnotes:
Easy to set up. Alerts only when something is actually happening. no monthly fees. Local storage.


Longer story:
Anytime somebody rings the doorbell or walks up while it is in 'away' mode (that can be scheduled in timeslots) it instantly sends an alert to my phone, the wife's phone and her apple watch with a snapshot of the persons face and starts recording including a 5-10 second buffer prior to the alert happening. It also records motion while in 'home' mode, but I usually have the alert turned off during the day when the fam is home so it isn't alerting on our kids all day.

I attached a screenshot, the photo in the bottom left is the snap of the persons face that shows up in the alert and can be blown up in size.

They also have a wireless multi-camera with base station and floodlight camera which I will be getting next.

There are two main reasons I chose it over the others. 1. there is no monthly fee since the video is stored locally (though downloadable to your phone with one click) 2. It has human/facial detection.

I let my dog in and out all the time from the front door and it almost never alerts on the dog, but if I walk out in front of the camera while it is 'armed' it instantly sends me an alert. It supposedly contains some kind of algorithm and heat sensing to detect humans.