![]() ![]() The doors are also exposed as HomeKit alarm door sensors, so you can build automations around them. In my time using abode, I’ve not had a single issue with the door sensors disconnecting from the base station. You can see the slim model in the photo above. I was able to test the mini model and the slim one, and both were able to be installed within minutes using no tools whatsoever. They also have a recessed model, but you’ll only want to go that route if you are comfortable drilling into your door. The slim model will last eight years, but it’s not replaceable. The normal ones will last 10 years, and the mini will last four years. The standard and mini models are powered by replaceable batteries. The slim model immediately caught my eye because it fits in a door jam and stays hidden. They have a standard model, a mini model, and a slim model. When the door is open, the “seal” is broken, and that sends a signal to the alarm.Ībode has three different types of door/window sensors. One part of the door sensor is a magnet, and another is the actual transmitter. Their technology is relatively simple, though. They are generally white bricks that mount near the top of the door. One aspect of DIY alarm systems that I don’t like is how large the door sensors are. ![]() Looking back, I’d still purchase it again because it’s a nice backup option and I would have had holes to patch in the drywall from the previous keypard on my old system. In the past year, we’ve only used the keypad when we need to disarm the alarm, and I’d rather not grab my iPhone to disarm using the abode app. It includes a built-in battery and must be charged via Micro USB every six months or so. This feature makes it easy to mount and remove. The keypad is pretty unique in that it connects to the wallplate with magnets. The standalone motion sensor is in my living room, the iota base station with the camera and secondary motion sensor covers another area, and the keypad is in our laundry room. The base station works on Wi-Fi (requires ethernet for initial setup), has a cellular backup option, and includes a built-in battery if the power goes out. The base station consists of a built-in 1080p camera (works with HomeKit) and a built-in motion sensor. The iota starter kit includes a base station, a regular door sensor, and one keyfob. When I made my initial abode investment, I chose the abode iota starter kit, added a dedicated keypad, two smoke monitors, three slim door sensors, and an extra motion detector. Early in 2020, abode added HomeKit support to their iota line, so I made the jump and have been very happy in the past year. I had been monitoring various alarm systems over the years, like Nest Secure (I have Nest thermostats) and SimpliSafe, but I hadn’t found one that made me want to redo my entire setup completely. Most DIY alarms work off your internet connection and often include a SIM card for cellular backup. With DIY systems, it’s almost always some sort of wireless technology between the sensors and the base station. The only communication method was a traditional phone line. 110V powers everything, and it had a battery backup. The keyboard and motion sensor were also hard-wired. With my previous alarm system, there were door triggers hard-wired back to a central panel in my coat closet. traditional systems is where the devices are mounted and how they communicate. One of the main differences between the various DIY alarm systems vs. HomeKit Weekly is a series focused on smart home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything to do with Apple’s smart home framework. I’ve been using the abode system for the past year, so if you’re researching the best options for a Homekit alarm system, keep reading to learn more about abode. I say all that to make the point that I am somewhat of a veteran in the home security industry. I ended up working with customers in a sales role after we got the product up and running. One of the projects I worked on was building a home and business security product. When I was in my early 20s, I worked for an independent telephone company in Ringgold, Georgia. ![]()
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