Abode DIY Home Security System review

REVIEW – The Abode DIY Home Security System is an Internet-enabled, simple system of sensors, alarms, and cameras to help secure your home. It’s very easy to set up and maintain and there are a number of affordable add-on modules and services. At $229.99 for the basic system and no monthly contract needed, it’s a terrific bargain for those looking to add some security to their home or apartment.

What is it?

The Abode Home Security System is a modular alarm system that connects to your modem or router and, with the help of a mobile app, helps keep tabs on the security of your home. The Basic Abode System comes with a Remote KeyFob, a Mini Door/Window Sensor, and a Motion Sensor. You can add as many cameras, sensors, and alarms as you like because of the modular design and easy setup process.

For such an affordable system, the Abode offers some high-end options such as battery backup, cellular connected monitoring, and online cloud storage.

There are three no-contract options for professional monitoring plans; free, $10 monthly, and $30 monthly. There’s even an option for on-demand monitoring for vacations or times when you’re away from home and want to have some extra peace of mind. The monthly plans are able to be paid annually for significant savings.

What’s in the box?

  • 1 Abode Gateway
  • 1 Mini Door/Window Sensor
  • 1 Remote KeyFob
  • 1 Motion Sensor

Setup

The Abode Gateway is the brains, and mouth, of the whole Abode Security System. It runs the entire system and contains a 93db built-in siren to alert you of activity on your network.

On the back of the Gateway, there is an Ethernet port, a USB port, a battery backup switch, a SIM card slot, and a power connection. The battery switch enables the internal Gateway battery backup which can power the unit in case of a power outage. The SIM card allows for an emergency cellular connection for the paid monitoring plans.

Once you connect the Gateway via ethernet cable to your modem or router and give it access to your network, it can interface with the Abode app and website. The Gateway itself doesn’t use your Wifi network, it communicates with the Abode devices via encrypted long-range 433MHz, ZigBee or Z-Wave wireless protocols.

Abode makes a number of useful modules such as glass break/vibration sensors, temperature and light sensors, smoke alarm monitors, and water leak sensors. The modules are all powered by small long-life batteries.

The Abode system can interface with a number of third-party cameras and smart home systems such as Alexa, Google Home, and Nest. Abode is also compatible with an impressive number of Z-Wave and ZigBee devices such as garage door openers, fire alarms, and smoke detectors. Utilizing IFTTT can expand Abode’s versatility even more.

Once the Gateway is wired to your network, the rest of the setup happens via the Abode app. The Abode app walks you through the whole setup process and then allows you to add in individual modules as well. The app is available for Android and Apple iOS.

In addition to the Mini Door Sensor, Remote KeyFob, and Motion Sensor included with the Basic Kit, I added a second Mini Door Sensor and a Wireless Keypad.

All of the sensors I installed had options to mount them with screws or double-sided tape. I opted for installing the modules with the double-sided tape because I wasn’t sure what locations would work best and I wanted the ability to change the module locations.

The included Motion Sensor utilizes passive infrared detection and can detect motion in most rooms up to 39 feet in a 110° field of view. It can be mounted flat on a wall or in a corner.

The Mini Door Sensors are able to be used on windows as well. Both sides of the sensor contain a magnet and when the magnetic field is broken because of too much distance, the sensor triggers the Gateway.

The Remote KeyFob looks just like a car alarm fob and acts much the same. There are buttons on the fob for arming, disarming, and setting the system to Home mode. There’s also a fourth button earmarked for future development such as a panic button.

Mounting the modules was very easy once I found the optimum spots for them. The Keypad was easiest, I placed it by the main entrance to the house. The Keypad and web app allow you to assign different PIN codes for different members of your household. This helps keep track of who did what at what time. Of course, this only works if nobody knows the PIN of anyone else.

With the Keypad, KeyFob, and Abode app, you’re able to set your system to Away, Home, or Standby. Away arms all sensors, indoor and out, and is used when you’re leaving your property. Home arms all external sensors and is used when you’re home and still want to be secure. Standby disables all security sensors; sensors like fire alarms and water detectors still stay active in this mode.

There’s also a great option for adding a Duress PIN code if you’re using one of the paid monitoring options. Entering the Duress PIN on the keypad will automatically alert the monitoring center. This is useful in a situation where someone is forcing you to disarm the system via the Keypad.

The Mini Door Sensors were a little more difficult to mount only because of the different types of door frames in our older house.

After some trial and error, I was able to find configurations that worked perfectly to trigger the sensors when the doors opened and closed.

Having the option to mount the motion sensor flat in the center of a wall or tucked into a high corner is great and adds flexibility to where you can place the useful sensor.

Performance

From the second the Abode System was set up it has run flawlessly. The instructions are easy to understand for old and young alike and everyone in our family has quickly taken to making sure the system is set to Away when we leave, Standby during the day, and Home at night.

Using the Abode website I was able to configure all sorts of alerts and notifications to keep me informed about the activity on the system. If you opt for one of the paid tier monitoring plans, the customization goes even deeper.

Given the success of our testing, we’re already planning on adding a number of other useful Abode modules to our system.

What I like

  • Super easy setup
  • Very reliable
  • Easy for all family members to understand
  • No required monitoring contracts
  • Modular design
  • A large number of compatible smart home products
  • Great customer support
  • Not reliant on WiFi

What needs to be improved

  • It would be great if the Basic System came with a few Door/Window Sensors
  • The website can be a little difficult to navigate if you’re just looking for basic explanations of how the system works

Final thoughts

I love the Abode DIY Home Security System and I’ve recommended it to a number of friends and family members. The price is right, the functionality is outstanding, and the performance is flawless. But, the best part about this system is that it can be as simple or advanced as you like because it’s completely modular.

Price: $229.00
Where to buy: Abode and Amazon.
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Abode.

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Abode DIY Home Security System review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 9, 2018 at 9:00 am.

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Save space with this table that has a built-in Bluetooth speaker

NEWS – Do you lack the space for a Bluetooth speaker? It’s no problem with the Sierra Modern Home Studio Smart Table which has a Bluetooth speaker and the controls built right into the table. But what’s great is that it’s not a regular Bluetooth speaker. It’s a 360° Bluetooth speaker that will fill a room with your favorite tunes. But wait, there’s more! This table also has a built-in wireless Qi charger so you can keep your smartphone charged at the same time that you’re listening to your music, making it the perfect choice for a nightstand or side table. You can buy the Sierra Modern Home Studio Smart Table for $189.99 on Amazon.

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Save space with this table that has a built-in Bluetooth speaker originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 9, 2018 at 8:00 am.

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Thanks to Adorama, now’s the time to add to or update your camera equipment

NEWS – Summer seems to be a popular time for taking photos.  People are taking vacations, attending sporting events, picnics, and these are all great photo opportunities.  They are also opportunities to discover the gaps in your set of lenses and the shortcomings of the gear you already have.  Adorama is offering great summer specials, trade-in offers, and rebates now, so you can afford the better Sony, Canon, Olympus, and Panasonic equipment you need.

Sony trade-in bonuses and lens sale.  Get up to $300 trade-in bonus, plus new Sony lens rebates
Sony Semi-Annual Lens and Accessories Sale.  | Expires 09/08
Trade in Bonus Special!  | Expires 09/08
Sony A7R3 – $300 Trade-in bonus
Sony A9 – $300 Trade-in bonus
Sony A7R2 – $200 Trade-in bonus
Sony A7S2 – $200 Trade-in bonus

Olympus Late Summer Savings – Expires 09/01
Save Up to $150 Instant Rebates on Digital M. Zuiko Lenses 

Panasonic 
$300 Instant Rebate on Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Mirrorless Camera 

Canon
Canon Summer Specials have been extended:

Special buyback offer on select Canon Cameras. Set up a Trade

  • Canon EOS 6D Digital Camera (Body Only) – $450
  • Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Zoom Lens  – Trade in price $1000
  • Canon 16-35 f/2.8L EF “II” USM Autofocus Lens  – Trade in price $600
  • Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L “II” USM Zoom Lens  – Trade in price $900

Click the links above to learn more about these deals and rebates.

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Thanks to Adorama, now’s the time to add to or update your camera equipment originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 8, 2018 at 5:30 pm.

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Seabird 4K camera, Ti toothpick, Soundflux earbuds, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns

NEWS – This week we are bringing you info about four different crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This week’s campaigns are for people who are interested in photography, videography, music, and more.

Pick-iTi – Reversible Fully Titanium Toothpick

What is it?

The Pick-iTi is an EDC toothpick that is made of grade 5 Titanium and features a reversible design and a built-in bottle opener.

Why is it cool?

I like the Pick-iTi because it’s designed to last forever. Instead of using wooden toothpicks that can break or splinter, this one will retain its shape and strength so you’ll always have a toothpick ready to remove that speck of broccoli from between your teeth.

Where can I find more info?

The Pick-iTi campaign ends on 8/31/18 and they are still working towards their funding goal of $3,237. You can pre-order a Pick-iTi starting at $19. After the Pick-iTi campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in December 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

Seabird -The Most Affordable True 4K Action Camera

What is it?

Seabird is a 4K video / 13MP image resolution action camera like a GoPro but at a quarter of the price.

Why is it cool?

I like that the Seabird action camera can record 4K video @30fps, has a 2-inch touchscreen, and a battery that allows for 90min continuous recording before it needs to be recharged.

Where can I find more info?

The Seabird campaign ends in a month and they have already passed their funding goal of $6,000. You can pre-order a Seabird camera starting at $89. After the Seabird campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

Laowa 24mm f/14 Probe Lens

What is it?

The Laowa 24mm f/14 Probe Lens from Venus Optics is a unique lens for Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony FE, Pentax, and Arri PL mounts DSLR cameras that has been designed for macro photography enthusiasts. With this lens, you can get up close and personal to your subject while you and the camera itself are farther away.

Why is it cool?

I like the Laowa 24mm f/14 Probe Lens because it is so different than any lens I’ve seen before. The unique tubular barrel of the lens allows you to get into places where a traditional macro lens would be inaccessible. It can be used to take pics up to 2cm from the subject and you can take really interesting video with it too.

Things to consider before pledging

The lens is very expensive!

Where can I find more info?

The Laowa campaign ends on 8/31/18 and they have already met their funding goal of $9,999. You can pre-order a Laowa starting at $1399. After the Laowa campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in October 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.

SoundFlux – Incredible Sound and Advanced Features

blurb by Julian Perry

What is it?

The SoundFlux by KNZ Technology earbuds claims to be the world’s first dual driver wireless earbuds, with 2 6mm drivers in each earbud.

Why do I like it?

The SoundFlux by KNZ Technology earbuds seem to be truly innovative earbuds that have listed specifications that should definitively provide a product that meets many of the features that demanding listeners want. They include features like stereo phone calls, dual-mic noise cancellation, waterproofing, an extended wireless range of 60 feet, the ability to adjust equalizer setting directly from the earbuds, and lots more

Where can I find more info?

The SoundFlux by KNZ Technology earbuds campaign has raised 2744% of their intended $10,000 goal surpassed with 2 days left in the campaign. You can back/pre-order the earbuds for $69 US. They have an estimated delivery date of September 2018. Visit their Indiegogo page for all the details.

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Seabird 4K camera, Ti toothpick, Soundflux earbuds, and more – Notable crowdfunding campaigns originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 8, 2018 at 12:24 pm.

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6 Smart gadgets that make moving or remodeling easier

ARTICLE – Moving to a new place or remodeling your home are two substantial life milestones. They’re usually things you anticipate happily, although some aspects could be stressful.

This list of six gadgets could help you take moving and remodeling in stride.

1. The Roomba 600 Series Vacuuming Robot

A new home is likely virtually free of dust and dirt when you walk into it on moving day, but it probably won’t stay that way as people bring boxes in, plus the mud that could get tracked in on their shoes if it’s raining. A Roomba 600 Series vacuuming robot is an excellent solution for keeping your place tidy as you settle into it.

It’s also indispensable if you’re remodeling and notice traces of sawdust or other debris that can accumulate after contractors leave for the day. The Roomba models have two brushes underneath, whereas most other robotic vacuums only have one. It gets rid of dirt and prevents you from the tiresome chore of cleaning the floors independently. (Starting at $299.99 on Amazon)

2. The Kyon Pet Tracker

One difficult thing about either moving to a different place or changing something about your current home is you can’t fully communicate what’s going on to your pet. A soothing tone helps, but a dog or cat still might get upset and decide to venture away from home.

In those cases, the Kyon pet tracker gives you GPS details to tell you where your companion animal went. It looks and feels like a standard collar, but features a light-up component that shows people “I am lost” in case they find the animal wandering around somewhere.

There’s also Kyon Sense, which uses algorithms to attempt to determine how your pet feels. If the accompanying app indicates your pet isn’t very active or feels moody, you might need to take extra steps to protect it from the upheaval caused by moving or updating your abode.

You can preorder the Kyon now. The anticipated first deliveries will happen in the third quarter of 2018. ($299.99)

3. The Pixie Item Tracker

Keeping track of your pet during and after a move is undoubtedly important, but what about keeping an eye on the box of things you can’t do without during the first 24 hours in a new location? One of the mistakes people make while moving is not packing a box of essentials. Of course, if you misplace it, it won’t do you much good, either.

The Pixie item tracker prevents you from losing the things that matter most to you. You put trackers called Pixie Points on each item you want to track, plus your iPhone.

Then, all the Pixie Points talk to each other and provide item location data that’s so specific, it shows an item’s location within inches. That capability is especially helpful if you’re standing in a room full of boxes and can’t remember which one has your essentials. ($19.99 for a pack of two on Amazon)

4. The Swatches Color-Picking App

The world is full of colors, and many might seem perfect for a remodeling project on the horizon. Swatches is an iOS app that works with your phone’s camera. Point it at any color that strikes your fancy, then immediately get the details about that particular hue — including Benjamin Moore, RGB and Pantone color specifics —  you can use when finding similar or exact paint or fabric.  Group the shades into palettes or share them with friends, too. (Free)

5. The Nest Protect Smoke Alarm

When researching gadgets to help with your move, don’t forget about the things that’ll help you feel at ease long after you get acquainted with your new abode. The Nest Protect smoke alarm is a great example. It screens your house for signs of both slow- and fast-moving fires. Then, you get alerts on your smartphone. In the case of a false alarm, use your phone to shut off the alert.

Moreover, the smoke alarm gives a vocal alert by speaking to you and providing early warnings. For example, it could tell you there’s smoke in the kitchen, letting you deal with a piece of burnt toast. Due to the gadget’s custom algorithms and humidity sensor, it won’t go off when you’re showering. ($127 on Amazon)

6. The Sense Home Energy Monitor

One of the most common unknown factors about moving is the cost of your first electricity bill. You could also deal with that mystery after a remodeling project, especially if it involves an addition or more lighting.

Sense is a home energy monitor that installs on your home’s electrical panel. The corresponding smartphone apps provide insights about energy usage and activity levels. It also tells you which appliances use the most energy. If it turns out your old microwave is an energy hog, for example, it might be time to treat yourself to a newer, energy-efficient model that doubles as a housewarming gift.

Because Sense offers in-the-moment statistics about energy usage, you don’t have to wait until your first bill arrives to keep tabs on things that could make your monthly utility expenses manageable immediately after you move and long afterward. ($299 on Amazon)

Stress Less During and After Your Move and Remodeling Project

It’s normal to feel a bit anxious if you’re moving or remodeling your house.

These high-tech gadgets could keep your nerves at bay and promote excitement during the process — plus, let you enjoy life more after the milestone happens.

Image by bruce mars

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6 Smart gadgets that make moving or remodeling easier originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 8, 2018 at 10:00 am.

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