Home security systems have traditionally been relegated into the realm of expensive investments, requiring professional installation and normally outside the bounds of apartment or small home renters. My apartment is currently monitored with SimpliSafe, an easy-to-install, renter-friendly system. But one thing it's not is compatible with a smart device lifestyle. This is where something like Scout may fill-in the niche between home security and home monitoring via app+hardware...
At the core of Scout is a wi-fi enabled base station, connecting to your wireless network and then accessible from your computer or smart device. If your internet goes down, no worries, the Scout also has a 3G chip inside for such emergencies, alongside a backup battery.
Similar to the SimpliSafe system, Scout is designed for easy on, easy off installation, making it renter-friendly when permanent placement is off limits. Three types of monitoring devices connect with the base station: door sensors, window sensors, and motion detection unit. The door sensor skips the usual keypad input route and goes RFID, which means you'll just need a RFID chip/sticker if you somehow find yourself without your phone (which is normally used to arm or disarm the system).
The whole Scout system is being sold together for $120 or a la carte specific to your needs and size of home. That's less than a Xbox 360 or PS3...not exactly a motion-based gaming platform, but when it comes to home security, it's one a game home owners and renters always hope to win.
The whole Scout system is being sold together for $120 or a la carte specific to your needs and size of home. That's less than a Xbox 360 or PS3...not exactly a motion-based gaming platform, but when it comes to home security, it's one a game home owners and renters always hope to win.
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Rats, Scout is only 42% funded and not shipping yet. It's a super concept, and I hope it happens.
Hey LinkyInVa, Thanks for the compliment! We are shipping our first batch in August and we wont be charging the credit card until the unit is ready. We could use your help to meet our goal!
The biggest issue preventing me from considering this is the lack of a siren...
Seems cool. My only turnoff is having to change 12 sets of batteries every 6-12 months. I briefly looked at the website, did anyone see if it tells you when your batteries are low?
This is a 90 db piezo buzzer in the base station. Its pretty loud!
The scout system will notify you when the batteries on the sensors are running low, no need to mark the calendar or guess.
I like it but what about when the power is out? That to me would be a prime time to rob people. I know out ADT system has batteries and calls out on land lines. How can this work if all power is out?
There is a battery and 3G wireless in the base station, according to the website.
I bought a simpliSafe system on your recommendation (awesome thank you).
They actually do have smart phone monitoring and control options on the newer models. You can see their app demo on their page. What other things are you expecting in a "smart device lifestyle?"