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The Something Awful Forums > Discussion > Inspect Your Gadgets > Home Automation and Security Systems
 
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osiyo
Nov 14, 2014

Hello!

syphon posted:

Are the sensors wired or wireless? If they're wireless, they very likely use Z-Wave or Zigbee, which are both relatively open standards.

I know SmartThings (and most likely other systems) worth with both Z-Wave and Zigbee, so it's very possible it would pair with your existing sensors just fine.

I have wireless sensors on my alarm. Is there any way to tell the difference? Would there be any handshaking or programming needed?

I really want to augment things and increase coverage in a couple of zones. My current system doesn't text me.

* # ¿ Nov 14, 2014 21:59
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# ¿ Apr 25, 2024 12:41
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osiyo
Nov 14, 2014

Hello!

syphon posted:

I'd recommend taking apart one of the sensors and look for some kind of branding or labeling.

I don't know much of anything about the protocols themselves... pairing a sensor is very much like Bluetooth. You have to press a button on the sensor and (usually via the software) put the system in "searching for new device" mode.

I can't think of any easy way to determine what protocol your sensors use other than trying to look for a label, or attempting to pair it with a hub of each type. :)

Thanks! That gives me a place to start. I should also pull the documentation on the alarm system for clues. I bought the place in June so the install isn't mine and I have no idea what it's capabilities are. It's not fancy.

I recently picked up a Dropcam for internal motion detection. This was mainly so I would receive an alert even though I do have motion on the alarm system. Pretty nifty, it ties in with the NEST thermostat so you can set your home/away.

Garage door monitoring is going to be bumped up on my list. I had to review DVR footage last night because my wife left the door up. 12 minutes of vulnerability but no intruders. Our neighborhood has been getting worked over by a crew over the last couple of weeks.

Life in the big city.

* # ¿ Nov 17, 2014 15:22
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The Something Awful Forums > Discussion > Inspect Your Gadgets > Home Automation and Security Systems