What Are the Best Wireless Door/Window Alarm Contacts?

The best wireless door and window alarm contact depends upon the needs of the end user. A user must decide whether they want a contact that is surface-mounted or recessed. They will also need to choose a sensor that works with their panel. This will help them determine the best contact.

Wireless door and window contacts are generally divided into two major categories. These categories are surface-mounted contacts and recessed contacts. A surface-mounted contact is placed directly upon the frame of the door or window. This makes installation a very easy process. However, the end result may not be as aesthetically pleasing as a recessed sensor. This is because the sensor will be visible on the door or window.

On the other hand, a recessed sensor is inserted into a hole in the door or window frame. This type of sensor will not be visible on the outside of the door or window after it has been installed. This makes recessed sensors somewhat more aesthetically pleasing than surface-mounted sensors. However, they can be slightly more difficult to install since minor drilling is involved.

The other important factor for a wireless door and window sensor is whether or not it will function with the panel. Almost every Honeywell and 2GIG alarm system will function with 345 MHz RF sensors. This means that any wireless door and window contact from Honeywell's 5800 Series will work with these systems. Additionally, the Honeywell Lyric Controller can interface with the encrypted SiX Series Contacts. These include the SiXCT and the SiXMINICT. These two contacts are designed exclusively for use with the Honeywell Lyric Controller. Please note that there is no recessed SiX Series sensor at this time.

Another important compatibility note involves the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. This system interfaces with 319.5 MHz RF sensors. This means Honeywell 5800 Sensors will not work with the panel. However, Qolsys makes its own lineup of wireless sensors. Their S-Line sensors are fully encrypted and excellent for use with a Qolsys system. Qolsys makes both an encrypted surface-mounted sensor and an encrypted recessed sensor.

Below are some of the best wireless door and window contacts, organized by their type and the systems they are compatible with: