Kwikset Convert is Z-Wave connected and works with a variety of existing deadbolt brands including many of the most popular ones such as Kwikset, Weiser, Baldwin and Schlage. While we have reviewed several electronic smart locks in the past, the Kwikset Convert is the first conversion kit we have run across. Billed as letting you […]
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Ideal Network Tester Will Pass Any Tech’s Test
Let’s face it, most (if not all) of us who work in electronics are gadget nuts. We like to work with tools that make our daily lives easier. We also like them to have a “neat” factor, the type of tools that make a task fun to work through. Last, but certainly not least, we […]
Review: Hikvision Budget PTZ Delivers on Value Promise
The Hikvision DS-2DE4220W-AE is a p/t/z camera available in three variations; one for in-ceiling mounting, one for surface mounting and one for outdoor pendant/wall mounting. When I look around today’s CCTV market I’m always amazed and amused by the number of manufacturers with IP-based cameras in their portfolio. As I’ve said before, the IP market […]
Review: Kwikset Obsidian Touchscreen Deadbolt Enlivens Door Security
The Kwikset Obsidian is a motorized deadbolt lock with a touchscreen keypad for control and utilizes Z-Wave Plus. We have reviewed a number of electronic locks, including units with touchscreens (deadbolt and lever handle models), push-button locks of both types, and even a deadbolt-only smart lock with no means of exterior access (other than the […]
Review: TRENDnet NVR PoE+ Switch Displays Its Value
To a large extent, network switches are becoming (or have become) commodity items. At a given price range there are more similarities than differences; with durability, throughput, and features marching in lock-step up the price range for different manufacturers. Low-end switches are unmanaged, and the PoE models are just fine for low power devices. Higher-end […]
Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Is a Hub Above
In December 2014, we reviewed the Qolsys IQ Panel, mentioning that it was an extremely difficult product to review. This is not a single function device but rather what I would term a partnership product. It requires the panel itself, myriad accessories, the back-end support of Alarm.com, and the involvement of a skilled and trained […]
Hikvision Network Camera’s Image Lives Up to Its Value
Once upon a time in the far off past (well, 15 years ago) you really didn’t have much of a choice when you wanted an IP-based camera. At that time there were just a couple of manufacturers providing cameras to the U.S. market and as we all remember the selections were mighty pricey! Fast-forward to […]
Yale Keypad Lock Is One to Keep in Stock
WE HAVE TESTED AND REVIEWED keypad access locks in the past, including models from Schlage and Kwikset, most recently the Kwikset SmartCode 916 Touchscreen Deadbolt (securitysales.com/ kwikset_deadbolt_locks_reliable), and are big fans. After looking at promotional material for the Yale nexTouch keypad access lock, we asked for a test model but were really expecting a product […]
Minuteman PRO1500RT UPS Has Few Downsides
This uninterruptible power supply bests comparable units in both price and performance. Minuteman Power Technologies’ power protection products are manufactured by Para Systems, based in Carrollton, Texas. Now in its 35th year, the company’s product line is well supported and respected, and we tested its remote power management system in August 2016. Our positive experiences […]
Why Kwikset Electronic Deadbolt Locks Will Have You Ditching Your House Key
SSI’s test found the SmartCode 916 and Signature Series Deadbolt to be extremely reliable. In June 2014 we reviewed the Kwikset SmartCode electronic door lock models 912 and 914. At the time we started out less than enthusiastically — in an industry full of high-tech toys, it was hard to get excited by a couple of […]
