| All you have to do is walk around in a public space to see that cell phones are taking over. Fewer and fewer people are having a land line anymore. Cell phones allow for “free long distance” calls, internet access, e-mail access, GPS, instant text messaging, and with the ability to talk to family members or other callers on the same network free, it is a money-saving tool. Last year I lived with a great roommate in her house in a not-so-great neighborhood. It was a great deal because I lived there for cheap and didn’t even need to pay for utilities! The only annoyance was the land line phone that would constantly ring. We knew they were sales calls because no one knew our phone number...including us. The phone line existed because the home security system required a phone line to communicate with the monitoring center.
Home Security System – Broadband Monitoring
Now enter home security system broadband monitoring. This technology eliminates the need for a phone line. It works similar to a traditional phone line system. The difference comes when a breach is detected and an alarm is sent to the home security system monitoring station. Rather than sending the alarm over the phone, it transmits through an available port on your modem or router using your broadband internet connection. This type of technology allows for some systems to let YOU remotely monitor your home security system. Can’t remember if you closed that bathroom window before leaving this morning? Log on to your system from the office and see for yourself. You can sign up for home security system alerts to be sent to you as an e-mail or a text message. You can have your doors and windows monitored to know when each is opened and closed. Concerned about when your teenager is getting home after school? The log will tell you.
Don’t have broadband? No problem. Depending on where you live, you can use a cellular security system. This type of service uses a box that is plugged into a normal outlet and uses a wireless signal to communicate with the monitoring service. This type of service is not available if you don’t have adequate cellular coverage in your area, if your home’s construction materials prohibit a strong cellular signal, or if there are other complications (if you live near an airport, etc.).
All of this technology means that if you thought you couldn’t get a home security system because you didn’t want to install a land phone line, you have options. Do some research and contact a professional to discuss your needs and options.
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