How many things do you see that are approved by the FDA? Do they promote the best thing for people or what big pharma pushes them to promote? Just because it doesn't have some label doesn't mean squat.
so do it, why do you need some damn propietary panel? why subscribe to the traditional alarm paradigm? Just because it's the way it's always been done doesn't mean its the way that is best. You can do ANYTHING that you can do with a proprietary "UL" listed system with a self built system, it's all what quality of stuff you buy and how you set it up. Want wired? Wire it all up, lots of stuff uses NO, NC, dry contacts, etc. nothing proprietary there. All a panel does is give you some buttons to press, why not set up a decentralized system that has multiple nodes, failover, etc. Something you arm with near field tech, geo fencing, keyfobs, etc. etc. You can build a more advanced system that honeywell will ever sell you and not be locked into their garbage, think outside the box. You can buy PIR, laser beams, anything you want.
It's like that for almost all AIO wireless panels. The only way to use a 3rd party module for self monitoring is to get a hardwired panel such as the Vista series. I personally will never use a AIO wireless panel for multiple reasons.
Outside of NJ, which if you don't live there, do not move there, or possibly college, or some schools that get kickbacks from the state, it's all a big scam.
ever used that professional monitoring? meaning, ever had something actually happen?
Has it been tested to make sure they respond properly and in a timely fashion? Yes, and I was happy with the results. Have I had a real emergency while away from home? No, not yet thankfully.
I am already partly hardwired. The reason to use one of these panels is that they are very robust compared to most anything else and they are still accessible. Once you exit initial programming they can literally keep functioning for decades without a hiccup.
Sure you may get more features with a self-built system. However, I prefer reliability (supervision of wireless sensors, EOL resistors for wired zones, proper notification upon an alarm, supervision of sirens etc) over extra features most people don't need/want.
It doesn't seem like much needs to be changed about the vista. I don't know how something could function any better or need to be anymore complicated. They also have alpha keypads with built in rf and that further simplifies setup if you want wireless. Just wish it was compatible with the six sensors.
On a general level the lyric does some nice things and encrypted sensors are a good idea. The new six sensors unfortunately have switched to 2.4GHz and are going to be subject to a lot more interference. The DSC Neo series adds 2 way comm and encryption and doesn't use 2.4GHz.
As a NJ resident, sadly, you are 100% right.
@tangent very well stated! This thread has really gone off course into alarms, home automation, UL listings, certifications, etc.
integration with cams can be pretty minimal and still useful, eg only record on interior cams if armed away or system in alarm.
