Replacing old DCS with Elk - have some panel questions

[theedudenator]

The Elk panel will not be in the same location as the old DCS panel.

I was able to track down most/all the wires in the basement.

 

It seems it would be easier to add a database hub at the location of the old DCS panel.

I would add a database hub at the DCS to use the existing wiring for the keypads.

Then just a single wire run to the Elk panel.

Do they make a plastic cover box for the database hub?

 

What is a good location for the wireless card?

My elk is in the basement.

Think this will work in the 3rd floor of the house?

 

Can I put the Ethernet expander in the Elk panel.

Can I draw power from the elk?

 

[bipto]

The Elk panel will not be in the same location as the old DCS panel.

I was able to track down most/all the wires in the basement.

 

It seems it would be easier to add a database hub at the location of the old DCS panel.

I would add a database hub at the DCS to use the existing wiring for the keypads.

Then just a single wire run to the Elk panel.

Do they make a plastic cover box for the database hub?

 

Sounds like a viable plan.  I don't believe there was a box included / available.  Wouldn't think it would be very difficult to fit one in to a generic project box though...

 

What is a good location for the wireless card?

My elk is in the basement.

Think this will work in the 3rd floor of the house?

 

I don't have the wireless expander so I cant speak to this

 

Can I put the Ethernet expander in the Elk panel.

Can I draw power from the elk?

 

The Ethernet board actually did come with a plastic case but I chose not to use it as it fits just fine alongside the M1 board in the standard Elk panel.   If I remember correctly Elk recommends that it be powered independently of the M1 (adapter included) because it's current draw is such that it would significantly reduce battery backup time.

 

 

See comments above, hope this helps...  Good luck!

[MWareman]

 

 

The Elk panel will not be in the same location as the old DCS panel.

I was able to track down most/all the wires in the basement.

 

It seems it would be easier to add a database hub at the location of the old DCS panel.

I would add a database hub at the DCS to use the existing wiring for the keypads.

Then just a single wire run to the Elk panel.

Do they make a plastic cover box for the database hub?

 

What is a good location for the wireless card?

My elk is in the basement.

Think this will work in the 3rd floor of the house?

 

Can I put the Ethernet expander in the Elk panel.

Can I draw power from the elk?

I don't have the database hub, so I cannot speak to that.

 

I use a couple of wireless expanders - they are all in the center of my basement. Sensors have worked flawlessly wherever I've put them.

 

And the Ethernet expander does need a separate power connection. I didn't see it as optional when I was wiring my system.