DIYbanter - View Single Post - Cost of wiring alarm system in new unfinished house

Milhouse Van Houten

wrote:

I was under the impression MOST sensors and system were wireless
today, to save installation work?

My family in phoenix all have systems and they said oh nthey are
wireless

Naaa... Most are still good old fashioned hardwire. I only use
wireless when hardwiring is not possible. Most control panels can mix
hardwired/wireless with the addition of a separate receiver.

There are a few reasons for this:

1 no need to replace transmitter batteries

2 cleaner look - recessed contacts in door frames and windows without
a bulky transmitter nearby

3 less expensive

4 wireless devices are proprietary to the control panel manufacturer
- thus sensor selection is limited

5 no issue with RF interference/ range problems

There are some advantages to wireless:

1 sometimes it's the only way to protect an area (no accessibility
for wire)

2 it's faster to install (good for a DIY'er) - no special tools
needed

3 wireless keyfobs are convenient for arming/disarming - plus they
can be programmed to turn lights on/off and open the garage door.