Alarm sensors don't use the same RF as WIFI, it has to be encrypted. I would hope the reporting of the alarms wouldn't be over WIFI either. This is typically another encrypted, hard-wire connection. Honestly you want wired connection for your doors and windows, RF is problematic.
The reason they went with the "G" standard is because "N" was never officially a standard. That changed, but "G" and "B" are backwards compatible. The "G" standard is also more universal, this why Verizon has "stayed put" if you will.
I have cameras, working with WIFI and it works great. Now I'm the uber cable geek, using wireless devices all over my home. Tablets, Phones, Cameras, Security System and countless other devices. I also have servers pushing video around my house and into the internet (tablets and phones can play music and video from home).
I don't want Verizon in my home, charging me for systems they install. Since they are new to the security market, I'm sure they are pretty bad at it. This is why buying a ADT type company would be a better fit than a start up. Rather than reinventing an industry, learn how it truly operates before investing time and money to invent ways to get it to integrate into the "fios" solution (if there is such a thing).
As far as the standard customer is concerned, I think they have it covered already. They can control the WIFI and internet connections. Adding new services to their BHR is simple. You want to make service calls, interaction with the customer creates good bonds. Alarm systems do have remote programming, over ethernet and phone lines.
In the end they are just a utility company, after all PECO doesn't want to install wall outlets or sell you toasters. They do want to sell you HVAC systems and maintenance agreements. I guess it gives us all something to type about, including them.
I think what Bob was saying, and I hope I'm not putting words in his mouth, is that the average consumer doesn't understand the difference between 802.11 G or N, and doesn't want to. Increasingly consumers will want to connect more and more devices to their broadband service within the home - today that means smartphones, PCs, tablets, Blu-Ray players, game consoles, and video cameras/sensors used in home security, but very soon it could include the programmable thermostat, remote health monitoring gear, and yes, the inevitable refrigerator. If the FTTH community doesn't work together to design what the in-home equipment is going to look like to make all of that simple for consumers - and simple for a broadband ISP to troubleshoot via TR-69 -- then he's saying consumers will be caught in the consumer electronics industry's 12-18 month product cycle and get very confused OR some one else will solve the problem and capture the customer, as Apple did to wireless SPs with the iPhone. Then that fiber-to-the-home link becomes a fatter, future-proofed dumb pipe and the real revenue flows elsewhere.
The BHR (router) included in your fios installation, provides MOCA for the STBs. That's how they get guide data, VOD, and the return path. So removing that router is a problem, but it does have options for allowing traditional Ethernet WAN routing and you can turn the WIFI off (it's just G). I have the 75/35 speed and haven't found there to be an issue. I added a access point to the network within my home and turned off the routers WIFI. If you were going to increase the speed of the internet connection, MOCA (as of the current deployments, within the BHR) would be an issue (the original standard only goes to 100 or so). Then you should switch to a traditional copper WAN input on the BHR. You would need to call Verizon to switch on the Ethernet jack on the ONT (http://www.dslreports.com/faq/12565). That also means running a wire from your ONT to the BHR, but I think if you getting that type of internet speed -- running a wire isn't an issue for you anyway.
The power supply for FTTH (at least in the FiOS case) had a battery to last through most power outages. They were rated at 8 hours (just like the batteries in cabinets) useful life. Most folks have cell phones on top of that and those can be used in emergencies as well.
I would urge you not to get your routers from your vendors nor would I use those devices to directly provide WiFi. If you do, you are basically stuck with the technology provided at the time of the service. If you need or want an upgrade, you will need to provide it yourself anyway.
After upgrading to FTTH for 2 weeks , I think there are 2 fundermental issues with FTTH.
1. Power Supply has to be provided by home. Since fixed line telephone is part of FTTH, that means no phone call if the electricity is out. Not a telecom level SLA.
2. Wireless router has to be provided by home. That means one more box and more consumption of power.
The blogs and comments are the opinions only of the writers and do not reflect the views of Light Reading. They are no substitute for your own research and should not be relied upon for trading or any other purpose.
To save this item to your list of favorite Light Reading content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
