We are retired and several months down the road in having a custom house built & now at the point of wiring for security. As a side issue I am planning to implement our own IP camera network to cover our automatic gate, VERY long driveway and house exterior. While it would be ideal it if were a implemented within our security system it is not an absolute requirement.

Aside from providing security for the house, my main goal is that we are able to monitor the house when away via IP, internet, smart phones, Ipad, etc. In other words, without involving a third party.

My concern is that our security system vendor (who admits not knowing much about IP) is suggesting a Honeywell Vista 20P. So after reviewing the various Vista models I am wondering will the Vista 21IP model will suit us better? Or further, will either of these models accomplish my goal of monitoring our own system without subscribing with a third party? If the answer is No, the question then becomes something like is there a major vendor out there whose system is open enough to allow us to do what we want?

Thanks,
GolfCharlie

Where do you live?

TN

The Vista works almost with no 3rd paryty. It can be set up to send you a Voip message to your cell or land line but this requires you to have an active modem in the home, at least no computer has to be running. You can buy all sorts of stugg of the net or from Buy at Smarthome - Security but I am concerned you are dealing with a vendor who is not up to speed. Maybe he is your problem. I always get 3 bids on jobs and listen like a hawk to their ideas.

Yes, the vendor seems to have a bit to catch up on technology-wise. I've had them do the pre-wire on a time and materials basis and think I'll just continue like that and in the end install the Vista 21IP model and go from there. As for the IP Video, think we'll work that side strictly from the our separate video network via the inet.

Thanks!

What all do you want to Monitor/Control?
Thermostat, remote arm/disarm.
Can you list what you want to do?