New Texecom Alarm or ?

[newuwave]

Hi - I have a Texecom Ricochet Elite 24 panel (Version 2.04) and using it with a mixture of hard wired and wireless Premier Elite XT-W/QD-W sensors and have been very happy with this kit.

 

I bought and installed this in 2013. I was after this type of alarm to save wiring and to have a remote fob to arm/disarm from outside.

 

Today I believe I can add network access but I believe it needs a firmware update and extra hardware that might no longer be manufactured - I have to google it.

 

Just looking today as for the first time I had a wireless sensor fault. Pulling the battery and relearning fixed it but it did prompt me to google Texecom for a replacement PIR.

 

However, things have moved on I see and the type of PIR I have is no longer manufactured bar the odd old stock I can find though Texecom do list a compatible one....not sure if it works with my panel though.

 

So I'm wondering if its worth replacing or upgrading to obtain internet access?

 

Here are my requirements

 

6 wired zones

4 wireless

Remote fob to use outside.

Remote Keypad/screen control panel

Internet connection/app to monitor arm/disarm/reset - can be hard wired or wireless connection to control panel

2 wired alarm boxes

PC based software to set it up.......I'm assuming USB/RS232 like with Wintex /Rocochet for the Texecom kit.

Manufacturer support for DIY install. - I am fairly technical and did the install and programed the Texecom myself with Wintex though I recall one issue I needed help on with Texecom as I could not find an explanation in the manual at the time.....nor can I find it yet,  but 10 mins on the phone with Texecom helped me get it sorted.

 

I need to google more but today I get the impression Texecom are not interested in the DIY market?

 

One last comment. The Texecom Mesh wireless works fine where I believe each wireless sensor is a receiver and transmitter to ensure good reception back to the control panel.

Would be good to have the same as I know my DECT land phones are not great all over the house.

 

Any advice much appreciated.

 

 

[newuwave]

Forgot to mention - we use Proximity Tags too to arm/disarm.

[sixwheeledbeast]

The Smartcom IP module needs installer registered Cloud account to add to a system, but is compatible.

No manufacturers are really interested in DIY market, I think the consensus is only Eaton/Scantronic are left with a free app for DIY, how long that lasts or how reliable it is I have no idea.

These servers that run the apps cost money so restricting stuff to paid and/or installer only is the only sustainable solution for them.

Ricochet Mesh is a Texecom only thing, other manufacturers have two way/transceivers but not mesh.

 

Apps are not a replacement for signalling, they are not polled so no guarantees you'll get a message. It depends why you want this "internet access", I'd not bother myself.

If it's really a requirement possibly consider a COM-GSM on your existing system if DIY or get an installer to firmware update then add a Smartcom and look after what you have.

 

[newuwave]

Thanks for the info. My Texecom activates a GSM Box  to call me and others if it alarms. Only want the app as an option to turn it off and rea-arm really in case a neighbour who has the remote fob when I'm away is not available to turn it off and re-arm it. - saves kids, who are local, visiting.

 

I was getting the impression manufacturers are not interested in diy - though I'm happy to pay a nominal annual fee to use any app.

 

I'm really happy with the Texecom kit - I'll look into the firware update and smartcom - thanks for the advice.

 

Kind Regards

 

 

[sixwheeledbeast]

You can control the system with a COM-GSM.

There is nothing stopping making some DIY signalling solution and interfacing it with the system.

It's much better for them if only trained engineers use their platform it's not just about per connection costs.