DIY home security goes to the next level at Costco

I've written before about how telecoms, cablecos and professional security companies, large and small, are now selling their security/home automation products in a retail environment. Those companies include Comcast, Verizon Wireless, Security Options, The Alarm Company and SecureWatch 24. Now add Link Home Security to the list.

Link, which bills itself as “the leader in do-it-yourself (DIY) wireless security systems,” is now offering a DIY home security/energy/video surveillance package through Costco, the national online retailer. It's a deluxe package with all the desirable home automation features homeowners have been hearing about—and it includes professional monitoring.

Ogden, Utah-based Link describes its Premium Plus Video Package by saying to customers it “puts you in control of your security, home automation and remote video monitoring and gives you the convenience of premium 'advanced interactive' services managed from your smartphone or secure internet login. The cellular, color touch screen panel does not require a phone line and is Z-Wave(R) enabled—allowing you to add security, safety, energy management and camera components to your system at any time.”

Link said it is offering monitoring for $34.99, which “ includes remote video monitoring and recording plus services like fire monitoring and remote accessibility that you won't find anywhere else. Z-Wave operability is no additional cost. … Cellular signal and 2-way voice communication in emergencies is included as part of the service.”

It said other features of the premium service will allow customers “to augment your existing smoke detectors with a 3-in-1 smoke/heat/freeze sensor (included) that is continually monitored by our UL Listed and 5-Diamond rated central station. The door/window and motion sensors come custom-programmed with the locations you specify, such as "Front Door" or "Master Bedroom Window". Our Z-Wave programmable thermostat (included) offers a “Smart Schedule” that utilizes the other components in your system to recognize activity and usage in the home or business and recommend energy saving HVAC schedules. The two Z-Wave LDM Light/Appliance Modules (included) plug into a standard outlet to control lighting and small appliances. Both the thermostat and light/appliance modules are remotely accessible from a smartphone or secure internet connection so lighting and temperature can be adjusted while away. The HD100 Indoor Camera (included) is easy to install and gives you the peace of mind of being able to keep an eye on the activity in your home or office, observe a live feed in case of an alarm event, or review past video footage at your convenience. The HD100 delivers a high resolution video with infrared “night vision” capability.”

This offering clearly shows that DIY is going beyond simple to incorporate the next level of technology.