need2shave 0 Posted May 8, 2011 Since many of you have also installed security alarm systems, I was hoping for a recommendation. I've installed a number of wireless systems (visonic) but am looking to put in a wired system. I've found Visonic's wireless systems very user friendly for programming. I'm looking for the same in a wired carrier. I'm considering DSC, Honeywell, and GE. Any recommendations? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cglaeser 0 Posted May 8, 2011 Since many of you have also installed security alarm systems, I was hoping for a recommendation. I've installed a number of wireless systems (visonic) but am looking to put in a wired system. I've found Visonic's wireless systems very user friendly for programming. I'm looking for the same in a wired carrier. I'm considering DSC, Honeywell, and GE. Any recommendations? Every installer has their favorite, and you will find installers who will recommend each of those. The Honeywell Vista20P will likely do everything you need. Best, Christopher Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
need2shave 0 Posted May 8, 2011 Thanks. Are the programming instructions pretty straightforward on these models for a DIY'er? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted May 8, 2011 I've dealt with a number of DSC systems... they're solid, but the programming can be a PITA. Also worked with and installed several Paradox alarms and really like them. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cglaeser 0 Posted May 8, 2011 Thanks. Are the programming instructions pretty straightforward on these models for a DIY'er? Yes and no. The instruction booklet is long and complete. However, the instructions are not designed for the first-time installer. The jargon is well-understood in the industry, but the jargon is not explained in the instructions. I would highly recommend getting the system from one of the online companies that provides good DIY support. Also, some of these online companies have created free DVD instructions that are quite helpful for th DIY. Are you planning to have the system monitored? If so, GeoArm is an excellent choice. They will do all the programming for you remotely. Best, Christopher Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Birdman Adam 0 Posted May 8, 2011 I'm a DIYer & have installed 1 large & 2 small DSC systems. Two Power 832's and one newer 1832. For someone who has never programmed before, it may be hard at first. After that it's all good. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
need2shave 0 Posted May 8, 2011 Thanks. I've heard DSC can be a pain for programming if you're not experienced with them. I've installed a number of Visonics but from what I've researched, they're programming is a bit more user friendly than most of the others...so I'm not sure how much my experience with Visonic will transcend to Honeywell or DSC.... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cglaeser 0 Posted May 8, 2011 so I'm not sure how much my experience with Visonic will transcend to Honeywell or DSC.... I started with Visonic and switched to Honeywell with no problem. Best, Christopher Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted May 8, 2011 BASIC programming (date, time, codes) is fairly straightforward on the DSCs I've used... more advanced stuff has been somewhat more convoluted - a lot of the settings are bitmapped, so you pretty much have to figure them all out on paper first, so you can enter the right numbers when you're at the keypad. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
thewireguys 3 Posted May 8, 2011 I have installed hundreds of DSC panels and they can be hard at first to program but I can program with my eyes closed now. If your gonna program via key get a LCD version not the LED. Much easier to program. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Campbell 0 Posted May 9, 2011 2nd vote for Paradox! Gem of a system to install. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
the keifer 0 Posted May 9, 2011 I mainly deal with the Honeywell systems and they're not too hard to program with an alpha keypad once you're used to them. The only thing on those I'm not used to is doing custom descriptors on the zones unless I use a laptop. I've serviced a few DSCs but not enough to get used to the programing. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cglaeser 0 Posted May 10, 2011 is hard to understand a wireld system?camera-----cable-----dvr------monitor, that's all things in the wired system. the most difficult point is to setup the cables. what else you meet? The OP is asking about a wired alarm system, not a wired CCTV surveillance system. Best, Christopher Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mike_va 0 Posted May 10, 2011 Every installer has their favorite, and you will find installers who will recommend each of those. The Honeywell Vista20P will likely do everything you need. +1 We've interfaced it also to our Lutron RadioRa lighting. Add a transceiver and you can have remotes all over the house (they sell cheap on ebay new ~5). We press one button to turn out the lights and arm the system at night, worth every penny. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SDM Group 0 Posted May 11, 2011 If its for a commercial application it may need to be UL Listed to conform with code. A Vista 20 with UL Listed can would do in this case Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
