Wireless vs. Wired
Wired Benefits:
Largest potential pool of competitive (current & future) sensors from all manufactures.
Least expensive (per unit*) cost of new technologies.
Reliability without regard to structure or appliance induced interference (EMRI, RFI).
No battery or maintenance necessary.
Wired Disadvantages:
Requires complete run of wire connecting sensor to alarm panel for power and sensor status. Potential for integrity compromise during construction phase or future remodeling presenting challenges of re-routing new wiring within and across other already finished areas. Time consuming to install often requiring higher labor charges mitigating lower (per unit*) charges over wireless or hybrid alternatives.
Wired Applications:
Cost effective Zone protection for proximal and accessible areas either during construction or above drop ceilings or beneath crawl spaces on adjoining spaces in finished areas.
New technologies not available otherwise in wireless alternative which require direct physical connections to panel for power connections.
Connection to wireless sending device (contacts open/closure only) within proximity of sensors mounting location.
Wireless Benefits:
No disturbance of finished areas beyond installation of sensor location.
Most cost effective alternative based on combination of labor and (per unit*) costs in most finished areas.
Allows for sensor placement after completion of other structures, which avoids potential of cabinet or furniture placement restrictions (or lighting in the case of smoke detectors) or additional labor involved by either/both tradesman (drywall, painters etc.) and/or security professional.
Allows movement/placement due to later “inhabited living” compromises based upon optimal sensor placement and aesthetic appeal. (Trim, & border lines vs. most desirable sensor placement considerations may change during finishing phase of home prior/after occupancy).
Wireless Disadvantages:
May be restricted to certain distances of operation from panel.
Battery maintenance may be a consideration ranging from 2 to 20 years depending on sensors chosen.
Some technologies may not be available immediately with a wireless alternative (ex. Range Controlled Radar).
Wireless Applications:
Most new construction/remodel applications where specific cabinet or trim/wall covering determinations may have potential for flux.
When the homeowner desires to maintain flexibility to “add to or change” locations after completion of other considerations. (Such as furniture placement, additional life safety concerns (co2, smoke, leak detection etc.) or unforeseen interior home utilization or traffic which arise only after a “routine of habitation”.
Wireless/Wired “Hybrid” Applications:
When a particular protection device may be more attractive due to aesthetic or “ruggedized” design.
An “invisible protection sensor” combination could be accomplished with the aid of a dyed painted or concealed sensor attached to a hidden wireless transmitter within a wall cavity or other space.
Protection of entire spaces such as outbuildings, barns fenced in areas etc. with special considerations due to elements such as exposure to weather or potential for tampering where a traditional sensor could be used to more effect but otherwise integrating it within the structure would be difficult. The traditional sensors outputs can be connected to a wireless sending sensor to allow for integration and reporting within the panel.