Can you recommend me an affordable burglar alarm or home security system?

Windows7forever on 06/06/2016 - 17:39
Last edited 06/06/2016 - 17:40

We are only renting but living in an area with a high incident of break and enters. Nothing of great value to steal in the premises but still prefer a low cost preventative measure. Don't need CCTV cameras, or anything too elaborate or complicated to set up, only the basics.
Keep in mind we are only renting so unable to make any modifications in the premises or alter any of the fixtures e.g. can use scotch tape to mount things but no screws or nails.
It's only a small sized two bedroom unit.

I've seen this kit on ebay which seems like a good deal for $80 as it includes the proximity sensors, control module, door/window sensors, and remotes, etc.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Wireless-PIR-Motion-Sensor-Home-H…

Some other products of interest:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2016-WiFi-GSM-GPRS-Home-Burglar-A…

Home & Garden

Comments

  • scrimshaw on 06/06/2016 - 19:21

    You might also be interested in Xiaomi's smart home kit
    http://www.gearbest.com/smart-home/pp_197862.html

    It uses a central hub, plus a PIR sensor and a two-part proxy sensor that alerts when a door or window is opened.

    I've yet to see any 'proper' reviews though. Just a lot of unboxings on Youtube but there are hardly good review vids.

    • Windows7forever on 07/06/2016 - 07:28

      It looks like a good product but I would hate to be the first person to buy it and realise it is not what was advertised on the box. The price is only $45 which makes it less of a gamble with my money. Maybe I will wait a month or two for more reviews to come out. Is it legit 47% off or do they always mark down stuff?

  • RobMel on 06/06/2016 - 20:52

    Consider the following.
    Who do you want to alert and what will happen then.
    Basic alarm system inside with no indication outside have 0 deterrent effect.
    Cheapest deterrent is a fake camera or other alarm device visible from outside.
    If deterrent and alarm is required motion detector PLUS stickers for outside with loud siren.

    For myself I have an IP cam visible in front window pointing towards drive way, hooked up to my NAS with motion detection running.
    That is effective if you have a NAS anyway and the NAS supports that. Or you have an IP cam that has its own smarts, many do.

    • Windows7forever on 07/06/2016 - 07:25

      I'm not that worried about external damage to the property as I'm only renting. Surely an internal alarm becoming activated at 110db once entry is breached will at the very least stun/surprise the thief, possibly alerting the neighbours that something is wrong(they are always home). I will consider your suggestions. NAS sounds too complicated. We are just using laptops and 3G internet here.

  • Giraffe on 06/06/2016 - 21:53

    I recently set up a Chuango system which you can buy from here. There are some threads discussing it on Whirlpool. It's not perfect, and might not be the budget you are looking for, but I do like the fact that just by putting a SIM card in I can get notified if the alarm goes off.

    I agree with RobMei that if you primarily want a deterrent you need a visible external siren (or fake). But not sure if you will be able to install one since you are renting

    • Windows7forever on 07/06/2016 - 07:10

      I'd be happy to mount a dummy or fake provided it doesn't make it appear that I have treasure in the premises(I don't). I sometimes think that overt security deterrents can have the counter effect and make you a target. e.g. big guard dog sign or "these premises are secured by company x". To me it just screams "I have lots of expensive goodies inside I don't want you to get your dirty mitts on".

      • Giraffe on 08/06/2016 - 12:50
        +1

        You might be right, but personally I think if a burglar is looking at a few places, they will pick the one that looks easier (ie. no sign of security alarm). I wouldn't think the implication of (possibly) expensive goods outweighs the clear risk of setting of an alarm.

        • KeplersLaws on 15/06/2016 - 20:02

          this +++111111.
          i know im kinda necro-ing atm, but this is a good point.

  • holdenmg on 07/06/2016 - 08:43

    I saw this:
    Blaupunkt Wireless DIY Home Security Alarm System Kit (Bonus Accessory Pack #1)
    $149+P&H
    https://www.jbhifi.com.au/computers-tablets/connected-home/b…

  • iand on 12/06/2016 - 21:18
    +1

    Beware of the dog on the gate and we love doberman signs on the windows :)i always remember one guy who had 2 Alsatians and used to open his backdoor when he went out

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