Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Smart Gadgets That Will Add Better Security to Your Home



Over the years, more and more people are now integrating smart gadgets into their homes, and everyone seems to be lured towards the convenience that they offer. Well, it's really hard to say no to something that has the capability to unlock your door with a tap on your smartphone or being able to remotely control your lights and appliances. If you're digging these smart gadgets, then you are probably interested in integrating them in securing your home. Below is a collection of four smart security gadgets that you can use to secure your home.

A little piece of advice though, the convenience offered by smart security gadgets may seem enticing, but they can also be used against you. For example, if a door can be remotely controlled or if a security system is based in the cloud, then this means it could get hacked if there are no security precautions were taken. Don't get lured by the security claims made by these gadgets and leave your home's entire security only to them. Make sure you do a research and make sure that your security system is secured against getting hacked.

1. Piper


Piper comes with sensors, a surveillance system and a home automation system to offer an all-in-one security solution. Its camera offers 1080p immersive video recording with 180 degrees view of the area -- enough to cover the entire room. In addition, you can also control the camera easily (pan, tilt, and zoom) and watch live recorded video remotely from anywhere on your smartphone with no monthly charges. Its sensors include Motion, Sound, Temperature, Humidity, and Light that are good enough to ensure that your house is safe from intruders and hazards.

If the device detects any unusual activity, it sounds a 105db siren (louder than a jet's sound 100 feet away) and notifies you via text, email, and phone call. Its home automation enables you to control the temperature, set up window, and door sensors for a security breach and control lights and appliances. Best of all, it comes with two-way audio communication so you can listen and talk to people/pets directly from Piper.

The Piper Classic costs $199.99. Some sensors and automation systems are sold separately or in bundles from Piper Store.

2. SkyBell HD


SkyBell HD is a video doorbell that is designed to make you answering the door easier from anywhere, at the same time offering some reliable security features. This device comes with an HD camera that lets you see the person whose at the door, and its two-way audio communication enables you to talk to them from anywhere with your smartphone and an Internet connection. SkyBell can start monitoring when the doorbell is pressed or there is motion detected, and you will receive a notification from your smartphone. This lets you have a view of what's happening at your front door and also prevents the risk of blindly answering the door. And with its Night Color Vision, you are safe and sound both during the night and day.

At the moment, SkyBell is only available in the USA with a price tag of $199.

3. Kevo Smart Lock


Kevo is considered as a convenient smart lock because it lets you open your house door with just a tap on your phone. You can use Kevo app on Android and iOS to unlock your door with a Bluetooth signal or use a FOB to open the door with a tap if your smartphone isn't supported. According to its manufacturer, the lock passes stringent key bumping, lock picking, and physical security tests and uses encryption for digital security.

You also have the option to upgrade to Kevo Plus to enable you to remotely open the door from anywhere using an Internet connection and also get the current status of the door, along with the notifications, as to when the door is locked or unlocked. You can also give eKeys to trusted family members and friends to let them lock and unlock the door.
The Kevo Smart Lock costs $199, while the Kevo Plus upgrade costs a one-time fee of $99.

4. iSmartAlarm


iSmartAlarm is a set of security devices (although sold separately) that is perfect to use to secure almost every aspect of your house according to your needs. You are not required to purchase a whole package -- just buy what you need and then leave the rest. Some of its well-known devices include an HD camera with night vision, 110db satellite siren, door and window sensors, lights ands appliances controller, and motion and temperature sensors. It also comes with a main control system to control all iSmartAlarm devices.

All iSmartAlarm devices are sold separately with various prices.