The Archive
Reporting, comparisons, and field notes — newest first.
Nneka Fasanya-Bright
Everything you need to plan a Honeywell Vista-20P hardwire build — from choosing the right kit and keypad to avoiding the cellular communicator traps that
·10 min read
systems-panels-kits
Skipping the monthly monitoring contract can save you hundreds a year — but the tradeoffs are real. Here's an honest breakdown of what self-monitored DIY alarm
·9 min read
sensors-detectors
A plain-language guide to door and window contact sensors — what they are, how they differ across price tiers, and how to match the right sensor to your alarm
·9 min read
systems-panels-kits
A straight-numbers comparison of SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm across hardware kits, monthly monitoring fees, and the total five-year cost — so you can pick the
·10 min read
sensors-detectors
Glass break sensors add a critical layer of protection before an intruder fully enters your home. This guide compares acoustic and vibration types, explains
·10 min read
systems-panels-kits
Ring Alarm kits start at under $200, but the hardware price is only part of the story. Here's how monitoring plan costs stack up across every kit tier over
·9 min read