Take a look at this low-cost, DIY home security alternative.
Ry Crist
Originally hailing from Troy, Ohio, Ry Crist is a writer, a text-based adventure connoisseur, a lover of terrible movies and an enthusiastic yet mediocre cook. A CNET editor from 2013 to 2024, Ry's beats included smart home tech, lighting, appliances, broadband and home networking.
The iSmartAlarm comes with two remote tag keychains, which will let you easily control the basic functions of the system.
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You can place the motion detector wherever you want. Mount it on the wall, stick it on a shelf, or hide it in a plant -- the choice is yours.
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The CubeOne is the brain of the unit, and it also houses the system's main siren. Plug it into your router with an Ethernet cable to get your setup started.
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The system comes with two contact sensors that can detect whenever the two halves are separated. Stick them on your door.
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The free iSmartAlarm app will give you total control over your system, and it's also packed with useful info.
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Adding the iCamera to your system will cost an additional $150. You can peer through its lens any time you like by using the iSmartAlarm app -- you can even control its movement. Whenever the alarm is triggered, it will automatically snap photos and save them to the cloud.
