Hardwired or Wireless? Why Not Both?

Getting your customer the right solution means evolving to meet needs as they are uncovered. In the security space, it can take time for integrators to make significant changes like “going wireless,” as a hardwired system may not provide everything the customer is looking for.

Residential and commercial security installers began branching out into the smart-security territory, and the industry needed to adapt, while hardwired installers began to transition into installing full wireless systems. Automation devices like locks, lights, and sockets began to deliver control that was almost unimaginable just a few years before. As these new wireless technologies were developed, two things were at the forefront of research and development throughout the industry: range and security.

Many hardwired fans have been reluctant to work with wireless peripherals due to lack of signal strength and reliability, oftentimes with good reason. Any device that is not encrypted runs the risk of being hacked and adding a wireless module into a hardwired system will come at a cost.

What are the main differences between a hardwired security system and a wireless system?

Hardwired System Benefits

For many in the security industry, hardwired works better in larger commercial spaces because range isn’t an issue. If a sensor is 5,000 feet away from a central panel, you just need a cable long enough to reach. Hardwired systems also offer reliability where a sensor will only go offline is if the cable is cut or it breaks. Hardwired sensors are also known to be less prone to false alarms due to a low battery or from wireless interference. While hardwired door sensors may be less expensive than a wireless sensor, the price of a wireless sensor can be leveled as it eliminates the cost of cables connecting back to the panel.

Wireless System Benefits

The main benefits to wireless security peripherals are time to install, and overall cost. A wireless sensor can be programmed right next to the panel, and physically installed on any door or window, making it a highly efficient process. The distance between sensors and panels can vary between product lines, but with PowerG wireless technology, range is no longer an issue.

What Is PowerG?

PowerG is a groundbreaking propriety wireless technology that increases security and signal range for wireless security, safety, and automation devices. Supported by powerful features like 128-bit AES encryption, frequency hopping, and 4x the range of legacy wireless protocols, PowerG helps customers create effective, flexible wireless security systems. PowerG signal can travel up to 6,000 feet (line of sight) from our panels without the need for repeaters.