View Full Version : Home security and management
Anyone else tinker with their own home security and management system? I've done my own security for a while but the system was expensive, difficult to manage. Add-ons for control just added more complexity and expense. Lately a bunch of new Internet enabled systems have become available that use new wireless standards (Zigbee & Z-wave) that make thing much more manageable and cost affective.
You can go anywhere from full do-it-yourself systems like those sold on Homeseer.com (http://www.homeseer.com) to cloud managed turnkey systems like Mi Casa Verde (https://shop.micasaverde.com). I decided to try out a system called IRIS (http://www.lowes.com/cd_Iris_239939199_) that Lowes home improvement stores is offering.
I liked IRIS because the base packages and the various add-ons are pretty reasonably priced relative to some of the other options. The controller is proprietary to Lowes but the sensors and controls are all standard Zwave or Zigbee so if I decide that I don't like IRIS I could get another controller and use the same sensors. The IRIS cloud service is free initially but to get full use out of the system you have to pay a $10 a month charge.
So far it's pretty cool. I don't have a camera the tracks you as you walk down the street but I've replaced our security system and tied in smoke/CO detectors, some cameras and some light controls - all of which I can check on the web from anywhere. The system still has some bugs and there's plenty of room for improvement, but it shows a lot of promise.
RaceGrrl
09-16-13, 09:51 AM
The added plus is the Puppy Cam. :D:thumbup:
The added plus is the Puppy Cam. :D:thumbup:
Yes, but now you need to get puppy TV.
http://dogtv.com/
:D
RaceGrrl
09-17-13, 12:35 PM
Couldn't have that- they already launch themselves at the TV when they see another dog or animal on screen!
WickerBill
02-11-15, 07:38 AM
Eighteen months later nrc and Grrl -- how is it? Would you recommend?
chop456
02-11-15, 09:29 AM
Not really security, necessarily, but I thought this was cool. And free! :tony:
https://manything.com/
Eighteen months later nrc and Grrl -- how is it? Would you recommend?
This is a tough question. I still love it. But the home automation market has really exploded over the last year so there are a lot of choices - every thing from add-ons to traditional security systems to other turn-key DIY systems like SmartThings, Wink, and Staples Connect. I think IRIS is still the best option for me right now for a few reasons.
IRIS is managed through a cloud based web app which is a key point for me. They have mobile apps but they're not the center of the system. Some alternatives seem much more mobile focused and I'm not hip enough to want to do everything on my phone.
Lowes seems focused on providing a good mix of reasonably priced devices. Most of them are either white label or popular home improvement brands. $20 for a door sensor and $25 for a basic motion detector is hard to beat. Other solutions are doing a better job of providing integration with "cooler" devices. For example, IRIS has their white label thermostat and a Honeywell thermostat available. These support smart thermostat features and will remind you when to change your filter. But Wink has some much cooler thermostats including Nest available. The cool factor comes at a price for those devices.
The IRIS service is "free" with limited functionality. Paying $10 a month enables more functionality like scheduling and multiple contacts for alerts. This grates on some people because other systems provide some of those features, like scheduling, at no charge. But some of those systems don't have all the same features. For example, on IRIS for $5 a month you can add a cellular backup connection - something I consider essential for a security system.
IRIS can work with WiFi, Z-Wave and Zigbee wireless devices but as with most of the turnkey systems only devices specified as supported are certain to work. While Z-Wave and Zigbee are standards there are enough variations in how they're implemented that the software generally can't know for certain how to handle a device unless it's programmed for it. All the players are working to add devices and there are exceptions. I was happy to find that the really nice GE Link LED bulbs work fine with IRIS, for example.
Even though I like some of the options the other players are offering I still think IRIS suits my needs very well. I think if I were considering a system today I'd look at all the things that I want to monitor and see what each system offers in that area and how much it costs. It adds up. Once you have lights around your house turning on and off automatically light switches become such drudgery.
I have around 40 devices on my system including light switches, dimmer switches, light bulbs, contact sensors, motion sensors, leak detectors, smoke and CO2 detectors, a thermostat and some video cameras. Next on the list is a garage door opener. Plus sharks with lasers.
Here's a nice review of some of the IRIS alternatives:
http://zatznotfunny.com/2014-08/battle-of-the-home-automation-hubs/
WickerBill
07-01-15, 07:57 AM
A rash of break-ins in our vicinity have the wife spooked, especially since I travel for work quite a bit (because, evidently, I'm some sort of deterrent when I'm here).
Anyone use SimpliSafe? Although I'd love to get into the home automation game, I think at this point I really just want some basic security - window and door monitors, glass break monitors for the basement, and cellular connectivity - without paying ADT a fortune. Open to all suggestions.
chop456
07-01-15, 08:07 AM
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NTAwWDM3NQ==/z/xzoAAOxyVLNSsR29/$_3.JPG?set_id=2
Not kidding. Check eBay.
If they don't know you have it, it's not a deterrent. If they think you have it, it may be. If they're professionals, neither will stop them and the police will be there just in time to ask you all sorts of dumb questions.
I used a local guy for my house that uses alarm.com for monitoring. I had the wiring all done when the house was being built but there are wireless sensors as well. Alarm.com allows you to add on automation and 'SmartHome' stuff also. I have a Z-Wave thermostat tied into my system. There is a place on this page to look for a dealer: https://www.alarm.com/smart-home-solutions
indyfan31
07-01-15, 09:55 AM
A rash of break-ins in our vicinity have the wife spooked, especially since I travel for work quite a bit (because, evidently, I'm some sort of deterrent when I'm here).
Anyone use SimpliSafe? Although I'd love to get into the home automation game, I think at this point I really just want some basic security - window and door monitors, glass break monitors for the basement, and cellular connectivity - without paying ADT a fortune. Open to all suggestions.
Yup. All of the above is why I chose them. About $10/month less for the same "monitoring" as ADT (or anyone else), and the individual items are less expensive; I actually bought a "refurbished" kit that was a lot cheaper than new. You can control and monitor the thing from your phone app.
Works pretty well, especially when the dog breaks in, sets off the motion sensors, the cops come out and can't find anything, BECAUSE HE LOCKED HIMSELF IN THE HOUSE! But, I digress.
Oh, and I don't think they have cameras yet, but they claim they're on their way.
772
the "Perp".
Still happy with IRIS. The catch is that it's not monitored - you're the monitor. I like the fact that I can look at the activity if there's an alarm and decide whether it's real or false before calling anyone.
$150 for the basic system plus $50 for the cellular modem. $5 a month for the cellular modem as a backup plus $10 a month if you want multiple contacts and advanced home automation features. You can pick it up at a local Lowes and then take it back if you don't like it.
I agree that the key is deterrence. Get a yard sign even if you don't get a system. Most burglars are just looking for an easy mark and they'll move on. If you're an international spy (which would explain a lot) and you're being targeted by a professional there's not much that will help. Maybe sharks with lasers.
chop456
07-01-15, 10:13 AM
S If you're an international spy (which would explain a lot)
Interesting angle. :saywhat:
Maybe sharks with lasers.
Or dogs with bees in their mouths and...
WickerBill
02-28-16, 11:47 AM
Anyone have any experience with Ring doorbells / outdoor cameras?
I'm considering a two-pronged approach: three Ring cameras outside (door, back door+basement window well, other basement window well) and then some DIYish, automation-ish for the actual break-in protection (z-wave, Abode, Piper).
The issue that necessitates this approach is getting a system that does both inside and outside, with outside being fully wireless. I am a total nerd so instant, remote phone notifications and viewing are wanted - that plus wireless eliminates the casino camera+DVR approach.
I've looked hard at Arlo - in fact it is sitting in my Amazon cart right now - but Ring has some good sized benefits:
1. Arlo is Netgear, so I fear an old-school approach to IFTTT and other integrations
2. Arlo has its own router device, so yet another thing I have to have sitting somewhere with ideal coverage. Ring just uses my wifi (which hopefully is stupendous when my Luma arrives)
3. Ring offers free replacement if the device is stolen.
4. Ring has two-way audio; Arlo is a mute.
However:
A. Arlo offers bundles that would let me get 5 cameras cheaper than three Rings
B. Arlo has free cloud storage (Ring is $30/yr per camera) (neither offer local storage, infuriatingly)
C. The batteries for the Arlo are removable, so replacing them is a 5 minute operation, not a ten hour charge of an internal battery.
Thoughts? I'm obviously rambling.
Arlo vs Ring (for the googlebots that nrc probably doesn't allow)
In addition to the Alarm.com system mentioned above I also have a number of wired and wireless cameras all controlled by software called BlueIris running on a Windows PC. http://blueirissoftware.com/ The most sophisticated do-it-yourself solution I was able to find.
WickerBill
02-28-16, 01:49 PM
By wireless, you mean no data cable, right? Or do you have some that are battery operated or integrated into power some other way?
WickerBill
02-28-16, 01:57 PM
I also just stumbled upon Kuna (getkuna.com). Awesome thing about it is that it has a power source so it always records - no "sleep" like the other battery operated cams have.
By wireless, you mean no data cable, right? Or do you have some that are battery operated or integrated into power some other way?
My outdoor cameras are wired via Ethernet, power and data over the same cable. I have a few wireless inside but they still have to be plugged in. One of the advantages of BlueIris is it works with most any brand of camera.
datachicane
02-28-16, 05:28 PM
I'm cheap and lazy. My house it 90 yrs old, and there's no way I'm dragging video cables or ethernet all over it, so wireless is a must. I'm definitely not going to shell out for any kind of subscription service, and the idea of having images/video sitting on a piece of hardware on site just seems like asking for trouble.
I have half a dozen cheapie wireless IP cameras with decent internal motion detection. Full video is cool but seems like overkill, so I have them configured to FTP individual frames to an offsite fileserver, where they're web accessible via a very, very simple web interface (just a gallery viewer, really) I cribbed from somewhere.
I paid about $50 each for the cameras maybe ten years ago. I've lost two in the last year, so they're approaching end of life. I couldn't be more pleased with their performance under the circumstances, since they're not intended for outdoor use (I have them mounted mostly under eaves, etc., all but one outdoors). For whatever reason there aren't that many IP camera choices out there, certainly not outdoor capable or wireless, so the replacements will likely just be random webcams plugged into Raspberry Pis to handle the motion detection, FTP, and maybe internal storage and webserver.
The wifi cameras (power required) on my IRIS system are pretty clunky but I suffer with them because I like having everything one system. IRIS is transitioning to a new system and supposedly new cameras are in the works but that doesn't help you.
I looked at Arlo when it first came out. Looks very nice but I didn't care for the base station requirement. Since you're considering wifi options anyway, I believe at least one of the new Netgear NightHawks can also act as an Arlo base station.
I've heard good things about Ring purely as a doorbell camera. One nice thing is that if you have a powered doorbell (8-24v) you may be able to charge it through that.
WickerBill
03-07-16, 10:26 AM
I've taken the plunge, and it must be a mood I'm in, because (similar to the Wifi system I purchased (http://www.offcamber.net/forums/showthread.php?18792-Wifi)), I've gone with a company just out of Kickstarter.
www.goabode.com
The website leaves a lot to be desired, but here are the biggest benefits to me in my current household situation:
1. Central monitoring pay-as-you-go (as little as a week at a time)
2. Completely self-monitored option
3. Indoor and outdoor cameras
4. Hub supports Z-wave, ZigBee, IP cameras
5. 18 hour battery backup
6. Cellular backup
7. Completely encrypted communication (hello SimpliSafe clear-text disarm codes)
8. Keypads so everyone doesn't have to have a key fob or an app
Reviews - of which there are not many *at all* because it is so new - are all very good. I like that it seems to be security focused but will delve into home automation, vs. the other way around, which is what Richard believes IRIS to be, and everyone knows SmartThings is.
I've taken the plunge, and it must be a mood I'm in, because (similar to the Wifi system I purchased (http://www.offcamber.net/forums/showthread.php?18792-Wifi)), I've gone with a company just out of Kickstarter.
www.goabode.com
The website leaves a lot to be desired, but here are the biggest benefits to me in my current household situation:
Very interesting. I'd probably have to take a serious look at that if I were starting from scratch right now.
Keypad and cellular backup are both essential to me and most systems are lacking one or both.
Make sure that they do offline processing. Do alerts and automations still trigger even if they lose communication with the mothership?
It sounds like their bespoke pieces use proprietary technology. That would make me nervous for pieces like cameras that might become expensive paperweights.
For zwave and zigbee devices is it the case that you can connect anything and configure its functions or do they only permit connecting certain supported devices?
Yes, I find their web site a bit maddening. Odd mixture helpful in some areas and pretty useless in others.
Their bits and pieces are a mixed bag on prices. Some are competitive and others a bit pricey. Overall they look attractive and functional but the site is lacking in detail in areas so it's hard to say.
Again with the site, I never want a giant baby face on my screen. Never.
Web interface for management is essential for me. Some systems are entirely mobile app based and I hate that. The new IRIS version is replacing a web interface with mobile apps and they're confused at why they're getting complaints. These kids today and their mobile apps.
WickerBill
03-08-16, 08:16 AM
Make sure that they do offline processing. Do alerts and automations still trigger even if they lose communication with the mothership?
It sounds like their bespoke pieces use proprietary technology. That would make me nervous for pieces like cameras that might become expensive paperweights.
For zwave and zigbee devices is it the case that you can connect anything and configure its functions or do they only permit connecting certain supported devices?
Yes, I find their web site a bit maddening. Odd mixture helpful in some areas and pretty useless in others.
Web interface for management is essential for me. Some systems are entirely mobile app based and I hate that. The new IRIS version is replacing a web interface with mobile apps and they're confused at why they're getting complaints. These kids today and their mobile apps.
1. Hmmm... I'll ask that question.
2. Agree on that, but I'm guessing if their cameras are ever discontinued, they won't leave a void - I'll be able to pick up something better (for instance, they already support standard IP camera protocols, so I could use those instead). Yes it's a risk, but I'll be honest, the whole thing is a bit of a risk.
3. They have a very short list of "guaranteed compatible" devices, but reviewers are having good luck with just about every Z-Wave Plus (which allows encrypted traffic, which abode requires) device. But again... super small sample size. I have high hopes though. Truth is, the Z-Wave and ZigBee model today, where the hub providers have to write what amounts to a driver for every device to work with the hub, is kind of tragically backward. The manufacturers of the device should have those drivers written.
4. The website is a terrible maze of non-functioning links, lack of basic pictures of their equipment, and no FAQ. Their Kickstarter page was much more informative, and their email support has been fast and helpful.
5. Yep, huge plus for me as well. The big differentiators for me were management device neutrality, keypads, outdoor cameras, security focus, and local storage. The potential of them adding 24/7 DVR from streaming cameras and more and more device support are just bonuses.
Don't know if my setup is unusual. I use interlogix hardware and Alarm.com for physical security. A Z-wave thermostat is tied into the security system. Communication to Alarm.com is cellular. The BlueIris product I mentioned above for IP camera monitoring. BlueIris also will do motion detection and alerts. Finally I use an Insteon Hub for home automation.
None of the three systems work together although each does it's own job quite well. I'm hopeful Apple's homekit might someday meld things together but it seems to be slow going so far. Homekit works with Insteon, (if you have the Hub Pro) but I've not seen anything about the other two yet.
WickerBill
03-08-16, 11:01 AM
Is your thermostat Ecobee3 by any chance? I'm pretty excited about that thermostat (wow... that was truly an old guy statement there) but feel like I need to wait until it is more integrated...
Is your thermostat Ecobee3 by any chance? I'm pretty excited about that thermostat (wow... that was truly an old guy statement there) but feel like I need to wait until it is more integrated...
Nope, it's a GE interlogix IS-ZW-TSTAT-300. This model has been around for a while but gets the job done.
rosawendel
03-08-16, 07:54 PM
Does anyone even do "old school" wired systems anymore? We're looking into having it done, but I can't imagine anyone being able to wire our house up without ripping something open to run the wires...
I was just gonna search for this thread. :thumbup:
My parents want a system. First Netflix, now internet security. :rolleyes:
Does anyone even do "old school" wired systems anymore? We're looking into having it done, but I can't imagine anyone being able to wire our house up without ripping something open to run the wires...
I had the wiring installed when the house was built. Most things can be done wireless now.
I had the wiring installed when the house was built. Most things can be done wireless now.
Yup. I had a hard wire system installed back in '01 (even the garage windows), but went with a wireless system when I downsized.
Insomniac
03-09-16, 12:50 PM
Is it me or is home security/cameras a much bigger thing the last few years? If it's not just me, is there any specific reason?
http://s15.postimg.org/j56s4jk63/charlie_brown.jpg
WickerBill
03-09-16, 01:35 PM
Is it me or is home security/cameras a much bigger thing the last few years? If it's not just me, is there any specific reason?
In my area, there's a big increase in petty crime, vandalism, etc. - and I live in a pretty decent neighborhood. Add to that the technology becoming affordable and the big security companies getting pressure, and I think that's the answer.
WickerBill
03-20-16, 06:26 PM
Quick review after a couple of days with the Abode system.
A. It's really well done with a security-first focus. Everything that was in the initial kit came pre-paired, which saved a bunch of time, and installation of the motion sensors and on-frame door sensors was a snap.
B. Those door sensors though... I guess I'm not used to it, since most systems have this type now, but they're UGLY. So for my two most-seen doors, I bought some recessed Z-Wave door sensors, and they paired super easily and work flawlessly. It just required me to drill a 19mm wide x 59mm deep hole in my door and a 19mm wide by 19mm deep hole in my frame (for the magnet that makes the connection). On the front door, this was a snap - I actually just used a 3/4" flat boring bit. On the sliding glass back door, I reversed it - put the sensor in the frame. I couldn't put the included magnet in the door because I didn't have the space (door is metal-framed and there's a lip in the middle of the door to help it seal), so I used a very small neodymium magnet (8mm wide by 3mm deep), and it works superbly.
C. The cameras are lower-res than I would like and far more bulky than I'd like. Considering cameras were one of my main concerns, this is really disappointing. I bought three, and I think I'm going to return them all.
D. The motion sensors include a camera that, when tripped, will take 3 pictures in 10 seconds of the area. They work extremely well.
E. The battery backup is included, and the 3G connection backup is $8/mo. Not bad.
F. Professional monitoring is no contract, $30/mo (if month to month) or $20/mo (if annual). Even better, a 3 day plan is $8 and a 7 day plan is $15 if you just need vacation monitoring, for instance.
G. The webapp is very good. The mobile apps are okay - have a lot of room to get better, but I think they will. Even so, the security functionality is excellent; it's smaller things like not being able to rotate your phone to watch a video in landscape mode that are little sticky details they'll fix.
H. Notifications are nearly instant. Very happy with that.
I. The IFTTT functionality is limited but good; I'm also pretty sure this will grow.
J. When speaking to customer support, they let me know they're working on integrating Nest Cams via their semi-open API. I hope Arlo follows, because I'm pretty sure that's where I'm headed for cameras now.
Overall, I'm happy the house is secured, the apps work, the keypads work, the keyfobs work, and I didn't sign a contract.
Quick review after a couple of days with the Abode system.
A. It's really well done with a security-first focus. Everything that was in the initial kit came pre-paired, which saved a bunch of time, and installation of the motion sensors and on-frame door sensors was a snap.
B. Those door sensors though... I guess I'm not used to it, since most systems have this type now, but they're UGLY. So for my two most-seen doors, I bought some recessed Z-Wave door sensors, and they paired super easily and work flawlessly. It just required me to drill a 19mm wide x 59mm deep hole in my door and a 19mm wide by 19mm deep hole in my frame (for the magnet that makes the connection). On the front door, this was a snap - I actually just used a 3/4" flat boring bit. On the sliding glass back door, I reversed it - put the sensor in the frame. I couldn't put the included magnet in the door because I didn't have the space (door is metal-framed and there's a lip in the middle of the door to help it seal), so I used a very small neodymium magnet (8mm wide by 3mm deep), and it works superbly.
Thanks for the update. The IRIS conversion to their new generation has been rocky and app focused. I imagine they'll get it sorted out but I'm interested to hear how Abode does. I looked at it some more and and the combination of a small start-up with some proprietary devices worries me. Does it seem like it will keep working if they should go belly up or does it rely on a service?
Surface mount door/window sensors are pretty universally ugly. I've learned to overlook it. I think I've seen your hidden z-wave sensor but can you provide a link?
C. The cameras are lower-res than I would like and far more bulky than I'd like. Considering cameras were one of my main concerns, this is really disappointing. I bought three, and I think I'm going to return them all.
D. The motion sensors include a camera that, when tripped, will take 3 pictures in 10 seconds of the area. They work extremely well.
One of the irritants about their site was that nothing was shown in a way to illustrate scale and I couldn't find any dimensions. It would be nice to know how large the cameras, sensors, fobs, etc actually are.
Are the cameras and motion sensors proprietary wireless back to the hub? If so I would be concerned about range since I have my wifi cameras all over the perimeter and I need two APs to make that happen.
E. The battery backup is included, and the 3G connection backup is $8/mo. Not bad.
F. Professional monitoring is no contract, $30/mo (if month to month) or $20/mo (if annual). Even better, a 3 day plan is $8 and a 7 day plan is $15 if you just need vacation monitoring, for instance.
I like that. Wireless backup is essential in my view. Ninety percent of the time I don't care about monitoring. I can review the logs and cams and decide whether I need to respond or call the police/fire. When we're away on vacation it would be nice to have monitoring.
J. When speaking to customer support, they let me know they're working on integrating Nest Cams via their semi-open API. I hope Arlo follows, because I'm pretty sure that's where I'm headed for cameras now.
Overall, I'm happy the house is secured, the apps work, the keypads work, the keyfobs work, and I didn't sign a contract.
I just looked at the Nest site for the cams and now I know where Abode got their terrible web design. Ok, I get it. It's marketing to people who don't want to know the technical details, but you should be able to find them if you're looking for them.
A lot of IRIS users hate the camera features and decide to go with a Foscam system or similar. I really prefer having a single management interface for everything. I guess I'm willing to tolerate cheap, lower quality cameras for that convenience.
WickerBill
03-21-16, 07:34 AM
Answers:
1. I think there is probably less proprietary than you think; however, the professional monitoring is definitely Abode-only, so if they went under I think we'd all be looking for ways to get Alarm.com to monitor it instead.
2. Link to recessed door sensor: http://www.amazon.com/Recessed-Door-Sensor-ZW089-A-Aeotec/dp/B0151Z49BO
3. The sensors that are Abode-branded are all ZigBee. Not sure about the streaming cameras; they just show up in the interface as "IP Camera", and Abode has said they will support more IP cameras in the future - I'm thinking the typical Foscam, TP-Link etc cameras.
Pics soon of items in my hand. Even though it will mean everyone here knows I'm a white guy.
WickerBill
03-21-16, 08:16 AM
Base unit - big, but has a 13 hour UL-listed battery:
832
Key fob:
833
Motion sensor with built-in still camera - these replaced old school ADT motion sensors and were slightly smaller:
834
Indoor camera - I feel it's about 200% too big, and doesn't have wide angle:
835
Outdoor camera - look at this monster:
836
WickerBill
03-21-16, 08:16 AM
One more - keypad - quite a bit smaller than the old ugly ADT flip-down cover keypad:
837
Everything feels extremely well-built. Pretty sure I could run over the key fob with my car with no ill effects.
Isn't most of the camera bulk made up of batteries?
(No excuse for crap optics/res. though)
Speaking of cameras and sensors, how do you charge these? How long do they last in monitor mode?
WickerBill
03-21-16, 08:58 AM
These cameras are all plug-in, and all have wall warts, so there's not even a power inverter excuse.
The batteries on the motion sensors are AA lithium, easily replaced, and are rated at 2 years. I'm going to change them every year.
The battery in the recessed door sensor is also one AA lithium, rated at 3 years - we'll see.
Assuming that you're not a short fingered vulgarian, those are YUGE!
Pity. I can give the motion detector a bit of a pass because of the camera, but the motion cameras look twice as large as the IRIS equivalents and those are three year old designs.
Most of the IRIS sensors use CR2 batteries. Those have been good for 1-2+ years depending on traffic in the zone. Zigbee seems to be a little easier on the batteries than Z-wave.
WickerBill
03-22-16, 10:44 AM
I'm actually happy the motion detectors are the "traditional" form factor... the old ADT wired ones were put in the wall using four stupid drywall anchors (for an 8 ounce device), so this form factor allowed me to get up and running without doing drywall and paint work.
Yeah.... lazy... I get it
Updates? The Abode site still kind of enrages me. Is there a user forum for this thing?
Lowes is rolling out a replacement "2.0" hub and changing back-ends in the process. It's turned into a debacle with important features missing or broken in the new "improved" version. They sent out new hubs to all current customers but mine will remain in the box until they fix the issues.
Updates? The Abode site still kind of enrages me. Is there a user forum for this thing?
Lowes is rolling out a replacement "2.0" hub and changing back-ends in the process. It's turned into a debacle with important features missing or broken in the new "improved" version. They sent out new hubs to all current customers but mine will remain in the box until they fix the issues.
Time to upgrade the pooch to a Rottenwieler or German Shep. ;)
WickerBill
04-20-16, 01:09 PM
Updates? The Abode site still kind of enrages me. Is there a user forum for this thing?
System is rock-solid. Everything works as expected. Range is stellar - no disconnects even through six walls on the other end of the house from the hub. Got a firmware update that took me offline for 22 seconds; it was done at 6pm local time, which is probably about the least likely time to get robbed at home, so I liked that kind of thought pattern.
Sent the cameras back and got Arlos. They'll hold me over until Abode does something better with their gen2 kit.
Site redesign and community supposedly coming this summer.
Lowes has announced that their first gen IRIS system is shutting down on June 30th. Rage. They've sent free second gen hubs to all customers but they've really done a horrible job with the new system.
It lacks two things that any serious system must have. First, it must work if the network is disconnected. It may not be able to send out an alert but local alarms, lighting rules, and every other automation function has to work. Second, there must be an option for a network backup so you can get alerts out if the network is down.
The Lowes first gen system had both of these. Right now the second gen has neither. Both are supposedly in the works but shutting off the old system before they've delivered those two critical features is not cool. They also have a web interface to create and a bunch of other bugs to fix to reach parity with the original system but those aren't as big a deal.
My plan is to wait until June 1st to migrate over and give it a month to see whether they get these issues fixed. If not, I may be looking for something different.
Any updates on life with Abode? It annoys me that they still have no place for public discussion on the system. It seems like a startup that means to be customer focused would want that.
How are the Arlo cameras working out? I love the form factor but hate the fact that they're restricted to cloud storage.
I did the forced migration to the new Iris hub and it went about as smoothly as I could hope. All devices but one camera migrated over automatically. The new version seems reasonably stable but the critical features of offline processing, cellular backup, and web access remain in "coming soon" status.
I really don't want to spend the money to switch to something else but its' pretty frustrating trying to manage dozens of automation rules on a tiny phone screen. Never mind that the system goes dead as soon as the Internet is disconnected. How's that for security?
WickerBill
07-17-16, 02:02 PM
1. Abode is swell. Rock solid. They just announced Nest integration along with a lot more home automation integration (officially supported vs. "will probably work"). They do need a traditional forum like Arlo has for feedback and self-support.
2. The Arlos are pretty good. I have replaced batteries on two of them - the two most commonly triggered - and found the CR123A batteries at batteryjunction.com for $1 ea, so $4 per camera 2-3 times a year isn't really a bad deal at all considering there's no monthly fee. The wired ArloQ cameras can now record to on-board SD storage, and they have local storage - via the USB port on the base unit - in the dreaded "coming soon" state. However, they did integrate with IFTTT, so now my Arlos and my Abode system can trigger actions from each other.
The biggest deficiency in the Arlo wire-free is the lag to start recording. To preserve battery, they go into a sleep mode for everything but the motion sensor... when the sensor trips, it wakes up the camera, but a 2-3 second delay can be the difference between getting someone's face on camera and their back on camera. So my next task, now that both Arlo and Abode work with IFTTT, is to buy a cheap outdoor motion sensor that can sit further up my walkway, trigger Abode, which triggers Arlo, so it starts recording sooner. Convoluted? You bet... but as you know, there's no great all-in-one out there yet.
I've also moved to Luma for my wifi (as you know since you see me harass them on Twitter), and it is mobile-app only... and I do feel the pain of not being able to use a web client. Glad Arlo and Abode are not that way.
Thanks for the update. Good to know that IFTTT is useful for bridging some of the gaps. Still hoping Lowes will get it together because I really, really, really don't want to reprogram everything again. :P
Outdoor motion detection is always a pain in the butt. Seems like some days I get a 100 recordings of a moving shadow and the next someone pulls into the driveway and doesn't trigger a recording.
After a month of dealing with the "new and improved" IRIS I'm getting fed up with trying to navigate everything on a tiny phone screen. Promises remain for a web interface, cellular backup replacement, and local processing but the fact that they blew those off in the transition causes me to question whether they really "get it."
Abode was running their $60 off promotion (ie, slightly less than way too much) so I figured I'd order one and try it out for a few weeks. We'll see.
And of course as soon as I pull the trigger I get the IRIS announcement for their cellular backup replacement. Still not happy that it will be $3 more a month than the old plan but the discount they're giving will cover that for a year.
Of course as soon as I pull the trigger on an order for Abode, IRIS sends my free cellular modem coupon. Then of course you can't complete the order because it won't let you place a $0 order. To get it to process they had to change the final price to $.01.
Still looking forward to comparing.
I've been playing with Abode for a week or so with mixed results.
I really hope they're not depending on accessory device sales for their business model. As discussed, they're larger than the competition and they're not going to win any industrial design competitions. The motion camera is a clever bit of kit but unless you need to hide fist sized holes in your wall like WB they're obtrusive and not attractive.
Automation has a couple of really crippling problems right now. The first is that motion detectors (at least the one I got with the kit) cannot trigger automations at all. That's crazy. They say that they have a motion detector coming to trigger automations so hopefully that means any motion detector will be able to trigger them.
The second issue is that you can't schedule a time for the automation to be active. So if you want the lights to come on when a door opens then they'll come on day or night.
Security functions seem much more complete. It's tough to test since I can't put it in place as a security device until I have more motion detectors and I can't replace my motion detectors until they have automation for motion detectors.
The web interface is a welcome relief from the wrong turn that IRIS took toward all mobile devices. IFTTT integration is a great feature and they're all-in on it where IRIS seems intent on maintaining a closed system. That, along with their recent deep Nest integration suggests to me that they're on the right track even if they're missing some pieces right now.
Abode has been working well and I'm really happy with how quickly they've fixed a couple of automation bugs that I've reported. I've moved almost everything over to Abode from IRIS with only a few items remaining.
1. Gate sensors. Iris contact sensors are reasonably weatherproof so I've been able to use those outdoors to monitor our gates with few problems. Abode door sensors are not weatherproof at all so those won't do. Abode has said they have something in the works but this is a key function for us so I'll have to hack something up if they don't have something soon.
2. Cameras. Abode supports Nest cameras but I really don't want to pay a premium for sexy cameras or cloud storage. I'll probably set something up with Zoneminder and my IRIS cameras until a better option presents itself.
3. Thermostat. The Iris thermostat has been fine. All I really need is a thermostat that lets me set a schedule through a friendly interface, reminds me to change the filter, and lets me use IFTTT to set a hold temperature when we're away. I'm considering either Ecobee or Honeywell Lyric. Any feedback on those or other options?
Smart home blog entry for 05/29/17:
I've managed to transition everything off of Lowes IRIS except my thermostat.
The cameras were tough. IRIS cameras are generic web cameras but they're deliberately crippled to tie them to the IRIS service. With some help from the web I was able to get those unlocked and tied to a new Zoneminder server that I've setup for my security cameras. I've been able to hack it to change modes and trigger recordings using IFTTT integrations. Over time I'll replace the IRIS cameras with better options but I insist on keeping my video local.
The thermostat was slated to go last night but I hit a snag. My IRIS thermostat operates on batteries because there was no "C" wire to carry power. I decided on the Ecobee3 thermostat which requires a C wire or the use of their adapter to carry 24v power over the existing wires. No worries, there are a couple of unused wires in the bundle. I just connect one of them to C on the furnace and I should be good. I move everything else over to the same terminals on the Ecobee and I should be good.
First go around I get a clicking from the Ecobee but no sign of power on the display. Consulting the support site. Even though they say not to worry about the jumper between RH and RC because Ecobee takes care of it, you must connect your RH to RC if that's all you have. Obviously. :\
Second go around after moving RH to RC - nothing. No sign of life. Make sure all the wires are correct and firmly seated. Check. Test for 24v AC across Rx and C. I see 21.7v AC. Argh.
Is it really that finicky? Something else going on? Is the transformer on the furnace bad? Am I getting too big a voltage drop along the thermostat wire? It was getting late and Ecobee support was closed so at that point I had to put the old thermostat back and button everything up. Everything worked as before so I didn't break anything (although I didn't cycle heat).
Today I tested the voltage at the control board and it shows 28v. So I have a significant voltage drop at the thermostat. Possibly too long a run with small gauge wire? I suppose I'll find some time to call Ecobee and see if there are any options besides running a new thermostat wire.
WickerBill
05-30-17, 08:50 AM
Is it still 21 at the thermostat? Make sure you're measuring both places at the same time so you aren't fooled by an intermittent issue.
Is it still 21 at the thermostat? Make sure you're measuring both places at the same time so you aren't fooled by an intermittent issue.
Good point. I didn't check at the time but I'll double check them both before I call Ecobee.
I finally got around to digging into this and figured it out. It turns out that wire I was trying to use as a 'C' wire wasn't really connected all the way through. There's a big splice in the thermostat wires with the black wire cut off and not spiced through.
The voltage I was seeing at the thermostat was evidently an induced voltage on the floating wire. The funny thing is that I tried to tone it out before I started and there was so much cross-talk on the wires that they all toned regardless. I could have created a circuit through two wires and checked continuity but I was trying to avoid disconnecting anything from the control board.
I considered trying to make a splice through for the extra wire but it was all buried in miles of electrical tape so I just bit the bullet and hooked up the ecobee power extension kit (which meant wiring into the control board). The control board wiring is less daunting once you have everything labelled and photographed (just in case). Things went together pretty quickly once I surrendered to using the PEK.
So far everything is working great. The remote sensors look like they may be more useful that I expected. I'd really like to be able to feed information from my Abode occupancy sensors. Scheduling is a little less intuitive than I would have expected but that's because it operates on "Comfort Modes" which you schedule or trigger rather than a more traditional set point timer.
It does connect to Abode through IFTTT so I'm able to trigger home/away status on the ecobee based on Abode status. Ecobee has ways of doing that itself, but I'm trying to avoid having a dozen different services tracking my location.
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