Eric Kent wrote:
With all the recent press about the bump key, and having seen a bit of
a show called Catching A Thief, I'm interested in putting in a home
security system.
Should I have a pro do it or can I DIM(yself). I was an audiophile at
one time and did my own installations....don't know if that qualifies
me as being able to install an alarm system, but just trying to give
some background.
I would like sensors on the windows, doors, and motion/heat sensor.
I'd also like a camera or two on the outside of the house tied in with
a motion sensor, so it would trip if there were someone walking around
outside my house and I could look at the monitor.

Do that make stuff that can tie in with my computer so I could look
from my computer desk?

Also, if you get a pro to do the install, must you sign a X year
contract and pay for install, sign contract only..... I would prefer
to pay for the install (if not done myself) and just do a monthly
contract.

I am looking on the web to gather information, but I wanted to get
some initial information here. I don't expect anyone responding to
tell me everything about Home Security, but I would hope for some
useful responses to get me started.

While planning your security system, consider two additional areas over and
above merely detecting or reporting a break-in:

1. Discourage the attempt in the first place. This includes such things as
security lighting, hedge-trimming, guard dogs, and, most importantly,
burglar bars.

2. Dealing with the determined intruder. Suppose a goblin defeats your
burglar bars and doesn't care about the alarm - the "smash-and-dash" crowd?
What do you do then? Solutions range from a "safe room" (most expensive) to
a shotgun (most effective). Or both.

Remember, above all, the differences between 911 and Dial-A-Prayer are not
great.