Intruder Alerts

Smart Security Tech Is Making It Easier Than Ever To Monitor Your Home – But Can It Really Deter The Bad Guys? T3’s Editor Finds Out…

- Rob Carney

I’ve never been one for masses of home-security gear. In fact, my idea of home security is making sure I close the front door after a night out. But in a world where everyone is becoming more security-conscious – and with a raft of new high-tech options available – it’s time I got my house kitted out. And let’s see if the latest in kit can deter even the smartest of burglars…

INSTALLATION PAIN

Installing a bunch of super-high-tech smart security gear takes time. It also needs, for some products at least, some DIY nous – which I don’t have. I start by tackling the Netatmo Presence, which installs in place of an outdoor light. Luckily, I have an old rusty light on my outside wall, so, after flicking the electrics off, I rip the old light off the wall and assess the options. My house was built in 1900, so I’m greeted with old wiring. Still, it’s a pretty simple affair to connect the Presence, screw it on and fire it up. If you don’t have an outside wire, you’ll need to get an electrician in.