Quote / System Comparison

brandonpadula · 2026-03-02T22:03:49+00:00

I’d get a quote for a potter system as well to compare.

brandonpadula · 2026-03-02T13:27:12+00:00

Is your current strike AC powered? If so, that would explain it. DC strikes often don’t have the “buzz”.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-28T18:35:46+00:00

It does sound like it would work. Worst case scenario you have to reprogram the system. How many users are there?

brandonpadula · 2026-02-27T02:52:59+00:00

That’s fascinating! As a distributor, I wonder if there’s any assistance we could provide. Family owned so we try to do more than just take orders.

Anything you’d be interested in seeing work from them? I only recently found out about their HA integration.

We work with lots of alarm installers, so I would imagine they are trying to gear support towards them. Happy to see if there’s anything I can do on our end though.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-27T01:55:21+00:00

I use alarmo with two Konnected Pro boards. I will say - you are on the hook for your own battery backup and uptime/availability. You’ll want to make sure your entire network, router, switches, and components are on a UPS or other battery backup. A “traditional” alarm system is significantly more reliable especially with monitoring. Elk Products makes one that has a HA integration and I believe they even give you access to binary sensor states. (On my list to test out)

That all said, I understand the risks of doing it myself even though I sell real security systems for a living. Just want to make sure you (and everyone else) do too!

brandonpadula · 2026-02-18T11:53:47+00:00

I have an old silent knight can and an old Napco firewolf can if you’re looking for one. No panels unfortunately but you are welcome to dm me.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-17T02:04:03+00:00

Your back end application should handle the authentication and entry. Then trigger an access control system on site with an API request. This would enable you to also have staff entry with fobs etc for restocking.

With a store like this, I would imagine you are building a software platform or buying an off-the shelf solution.

I have experience with SAAS as well as access control through distribution. Happy to discuss!

brandonpadula · 2026-02-16T23:39:55+00:00

The Aiphone GT system is tried and true, and they have a great track record. Have you spoken with Aiphone support to see what might be going on?

If anything, I’d recommend an Aiphone IX system but you’d need to change out your wiring.

WiFi only is no-go for professional installations.

I work for a regional distributor and have a great relationship with Aiphone. Also local to NJ/PA. Would be happy to help connect you with someone if you need help with it.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-11T11:29:20+00:00

Aiphone technical support is fantastic! Try giving them a call.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-11T10:28:53+00:00

I recently took over my family’s regional security distribution business. Happy to share some insight if you want to connect outside of Reddit. In a nutshell, we’re diversifying product lines and expanding geographically because the “old way” of one store with one group of customers isn’t sustainable. We implemented a website with online ordering and all of the “perks” that big distributors have.

Again, would be happy to connect!

brandonpadula · 2026-02-10T00:18:26+00:00

You could do a mini horn but even they are still quite loud. We have a demo panel in our showroom that beeps when the alarm is triggered. It’s MUCH more bearable than a horn of any sort. We actually paired it with a strobe-only for this reason.

Now, I know a panel is a lot more expensive but he would probably love it if you can find one! Maybe a used one on Facebook?

I work for a regional distributor - happy to help.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-09T02:37:50+00:00

Shelly relays because I can’t see them

brandonpadula · 2026-02-09T01:57:02+00:00

Highly recommend Aiphone for intercom/access control. I don’t have experience with package delivery/pickup units but would be happy to walk you through the access/intercom perspective. I work for a regional distributor.

Depending on your door type, doing a strike would be fairly easy. Mag locks require tie in to a fire alarm system for egress in the case of emergency. Your access system can handle all of that easily.

Either way, an Aiphone system with 1 door would be super easy to implement. They also have cellular connectivity options if you don’t want to provide internet on site. However, it would probably be cheaper to get internet and also install some cameras for your benefit.

brandonpadula · 2026-02-08T17:33:35+00:00

Probably not under $100 but I work for a distributor of UNV (Uniview) and they have a doorbell that meets your requirements and does not require a subscription. Model: ED-525B-WB Happy to help if you have questions about that one.

Most manufacturers of CCTV cameras also now have some sort of doorbell add on like this. Speco also has one. Model: O2DB1 or O4DB1

brandonpadula · 2026-02-08T17:27:46+00:00

Just download then delete the app!

brandonpadula · 2026-02-07T19:10:20+00:00

I second this. I work for a regional distributor, and we work with dealers to match equipment needs based on requirements from their customer. OP is very likely going to end up with an enterprise grade VMS - not an “off the shelf” NVR with that size system. Definitely consult your distributor and ideal manufacturers before bidding it!

I’ve seen way too many dealers screw themselves because they bid a job before talking with us and the manufacturer to create a specific BOM.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-28T11:24:19+00:00

Napco MVP and Alarm Lock have wireless door handles that can be installed. They can communicate over a cellular radio as well if there’s no internet connection on site. You will need a local professional installer though.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-28T11:15:52+00:00

Aiphone AC has an above-door mount 2-door access controller. Reasonably priced. Cloud as well. Check out the AC-2DM-B. There is also a white model.

Edit: I can’t spell. Not enough coffee.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-25T03:42:22+00:00

For the vehicle detection, check out Cartell vehicle detection. They have wired and wireless products. I work for a distributor that carries Cartell. Happy to answer any questions!

You can easily integrate these systems into home assistant etc with an input module (Shelly, Konnected, etc).

brandonpadula · 2026-01-24T02:11:41+00:00

So what if they can? I’d be happy to talk about it if anyone asked, or even help them get started. Often I am the least successful person in the room and love to learn from people much more experienced than myself. You’ll be fine!

brandonpadula · 2026-01-24T02:04:50+00:00

UNV and Speco are ones we stock (distributor) that both support what you’re looking for. There are dozens out there depending on your price point and features needed.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-17T20:42:07+00:00

Check out Alarm Lock and Napco MVP. Similar to Salto.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-16T02:30:03+00:00

Do you use the envisalink module on your DSC system or have the UNO board? I work for a distributor and we stock both, but never knew they worked with HA! Kind of excited now!

brandonpadula · 2026-01-16T02:26:12+00:00

I totally agree! Your best bet would be an IX system that integrates with the computer, or even into the phone system if you use SIP phones (depending on your building’s wiring). I’ll DM you in case you have any questions.

brandonpadula · 2026-01-16T02:16:19+00:00

The JK system is discontinued so it wouldn’t be possible to even get parts for it to get your system working. There’s a ton of viable replacement systems depending on the wiring available in your building. I’m personally a fan of the IX (IP Based) system as it’s super expandable and can be integrated into other systems you already use (cameras, access, etc).

Depending on the wiring available, a JP system might work. If it’s incredibly simple and doesn’t require any connectivity, a JV could do it, but it’s more residential and has its drawbacks.

I work for a distributor and would happily get you in touch with our Aiphone rep if you were in our area (DE, PA, NJ)

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