Newbie needs to understand ELK/ISY integration

[ekuzmack]

I'm in the process of building a new house and have a couple of questions on the ELK/ISY integration.

 

Background:

 

Each of the doors/windows/etc... are pre-wired with a sensor with all wires running back to a central location along with my ethernet & coax drops. That's where I'm planning on putting all my automation gear.

 

I am not having the builder install a security system - just the pre-wire.

 

Questions:

 

I don't want a full security system - I only want to trigger ISY programs when doors or windows are opened. Do I need to purchase the ELK, or is there another way to hook the door/window sensors to an insteon device?

 

If I do need the ELK, is there a bare minimum set of gear I need? For example, I don't really want the wall panel that comes with the $1000+ kit. I simply want to trigger ISY programs when sensors are opened/closed.

 

thanks!

 

Eric

[LeeG]

ekuzmack

 

There are Insteon devices that recognize a contact closure. The I/O Linc is one, Simplehomenet has a variety of devices (EZIOxx) that have multiple Inputs which recognize a contact closure. The ISY can trigger a Program when any of these devices recognize a contact closure. If all the window and door sensors are going to be connected together so that any of them will trigger the event than a single I/O Linc is all that is necessary. Just depends on how granular you want the notification.

 

Something else to think about is how secure the system must be. Security systems have battery backup and work regardless of commercial power. Insteon does not and none of the Insteon devices is rated for use as a security device.

 

Lee

[gatchel]

you may want to figure out how many inputs you might need. Depending on the amount you may be in the Elk M1 category. IOLinc's can add up fast.

 

You can get a 4 pack of IOlincs for $150. That's only 4 inputs if I read correctly.

[jwelton2]

Eric, I prewired a house back in the 90's and if you still have not put up drywall and insulation, think of all of the possibilities you can prewire, even if you can't think of an application right now. Once the drywall goes up, no easy way to get wires behind the wall, e.g. all windows, doors, attic space, crawl space, smoke/heat detectors, motion, etc. Also, think about burying cable while you have the equipment, e.g. driveway sensors, irrigation, etc.

 

One thing you may want to consider is put up some old telephone 66 blocks on a plywood sheet and punch down all the wires (and be sure to label and document). I did that and it was a good way to keep everything neat and out of the Napco box until I was ready to use it.

 

Good luck, John