ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Tuesday, July 23, 1996 TAG: 9607230038
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
COLUMN: AT HOME WITH TECHNOLOGY
SOURCE: DAVID BUTLER
Q: I've been shopping for a home security system that I can install myself. How do I go about finding a qualified monitoring service?
A: Generally speaking, alarm monitoring services are handled by security dealers. Consumers who choose to install their own security system are often frustrated when they discover that professional monitoring centers are unwilling to handle direct or retail accounts.
The rationale behind this arrangement is sound: Security professionals know from experience that most alarm reports are false - often the result of a component malfunction or operational problem. Monitoring centers, often located in another city, are ill-equipped to provide field support.
If a problem persists, monitoring center personnel can ask the installing dealer to dispatch a technician to check out the system. More often than not, the user (or user interface) is to blame.
There's more: Monitoring agreements are usually bundled with other services such as periodic site inspections, alarm system maintenance and even armed response. As well, monitoring centers are often affiliated with the dealers they serve. Finally, equipment on both ends must be compatible.
It's easy to understand why monitoring centers shy away from retail accounts. Unfortunately, this effectively eliminates professional monitoring as an option for the do-it-yourselfer.
But that's finally changing, thanks to better and more affordable wireless security systems.
As with other consumer electronics, today's security systems are more reliable and far easier to use than their predecessors. In particular, wireless systems have benefited from numerous technological advances. Transmitters are smaller, less prone to interference, cover a greater range and consume less energy (for longer battery life). Consoles are smarter and more forgiving.
It was only a matter of time before someone would buck tradition by offering a national monitoring service direct to consumers. The challenge was to find innovative ways to provide long-distance product support. For this, one need look no further than the personal computer industry.
The first of such services debuted last fall. It provides 24-hour monitoring as well as comprehensive product support via telephone. Because support is limited to a handful of brands, trained customer service reps can quickly master the entire range of compatible products and accessories.
Though hardly necessary, telephone attendants stand ready to walk customers through setup and installation. The only tool needed is a screwdriver. Several contract and payment options are available with monthly fees as low as $15. Extra-cost items include custom programming services and extended equipment warranties.
As of this writing, consumers can choose from five systems sold under three brand names - all with professional monitoring options. These products can be purchased from retail stores, mail-order suppliers or manufacturer-direct.
One company sells a starter package for a mere $80. The kit includes two door/window sensors, a motion detector, a hand-held remote and a keychain remote. A professionally monitored personal emergency response system is also available. To summon help, the user simply presses a button on the wireless pendant.
To receive a list of companies that manufacture both consumer-installed and dealer-installed wireless security systems, please send $2 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-618, Department TWN, P.O. Box 36352, Cincinnati, Ohio 45236-0352. The list includes toll-free numbers and a summary of each company's products. You'll also receive information on professional monitoring options for do-it-yourselfers.
TechTip: If your ceiling fan doesn't seem to keep you as cool as it used to, you may want to make sure it's spinning in the right direction (i.e., blowing down). Most fans have a reverse switch for year-round use - just don't forget to change it! It happens to the best of us.
Send questions or comments to David Butler at 14713 Pleasant Hill Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28278.
LENGTH: Medium: 77 linesby CNB