annyeonghaseyo modu~
How is everyone's weekend? Hope you are all doing well. As for me, it's been a tiring week. I'd just completed my presentation at the BEX-Asia, a leading green building trade-show in South East Asia and was very happy that many people came to gain more perspective on the latest gadgets and technology to make a greener place to stay. What makes me more impressed was there were many youngsters who made their way into the exhibition. This is a positive feedback that our younger generations are also well aware of the sustainability living on this planet.
Anyway, after that exhibition, I heard of a new movie that everybody was talking about, Train to Busan. Wow~ I am speechless. It is one of the best zombie movie I'd ever seen. The movie had expressed many emotional moments during some of its scenes. I won't share much at here but one thing for sure, you will shed some tears at the end of the movie.
So after the movie in the cinema, I heard a commotion where there were people fighting in the malls. Luckily the securities were able to separate both of them. It actually surprised everyone and this actually happened in a mall. What if it happens in our own backyard? Shouldn't we take more precaution for the safety of our love ones. You would think more of the security after watching an "undead" movie.
Well, we have a few gadgets that can be used at home for security reason and also energy efficient. There were a few companies that presented their products in the BEX exhibition and I'll be glad to share some ideas with the readers.
Home Security
Your home is your castle, and it’s one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Keeping it safe and secure is a top priority of many homeowners. Thanks to advances in smart home technology and home automation security products, you can now monitor your home’s cameras, security solutions and more, no matter where you are in the world.
Alarms, camera, motion sensors and more – the options are endless when it comes to keeping tabs on what’s happening in your home. You can now have peace of mind all at the touch of a button. Best part is, you can install most of this automated home security technology yourself, so you don’t need to shell out thousands to a security installation company or contractor.
How to be a SMART Security?
1) Danalock Bluetooth Z-Wave Smart Lock
You’ll never have to worry about forgetting your key again after installing a smart lock. Quickly and easily installs, allowing you to open your door via smartphone and grant others access no matter where you are in the world.
Key features:
- Easily installs into current deadbolt hole in just 5-10 minutes
- Works with both Android, iOS and other major devices
- Sleek design blends with any home décor style
2) Samsung SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit
Keep your home and family secure with this complete smart home monitoring kit. Automate your home’s electronics, lights and keep track of who’s coming and going with setup that takes as little as 15 minutes.
Key features:
- Secure your home without the monthly monitoring costs of a traditional home security system
- Notifications let you know who’s coming and going
- Monitors smoke and carbon monoxide levels to help keep your family safe
- Use your iOS or Android device to control lights, appliance and electronics while on the go
3) Mother & 4-Motion Cookies Versatile Sensors
No one knows the importance of staying connected with your family more than moms, and this kit lets you do just that – and more. Keep track of the comings and goings in your home, motivate your family to do healthier activities and any other task you can think of.
Key features:
Sensors can alert you to break-ins, serve as medication or activity reminders, and let you know when the kids come home
- Keep track of who’s in your home with Cookies
- Batteries last up to one year
- Compatible with Windows, iOS and Android devices
4) Dropcam Pro Wifi Wireless Video Monitoring Camera
Who hasn’t wondered what the family pet is up to all day when they’re not home? Sneak a peek with this WiFi-enabled device and never wonder again!
Key features:
- Complete setup in under a minute
- Night vision, zoom and 130 degree diagonal field of view ensure nothing escapes your sight
- Secure offsite recording (additional cost) allows you to review and edit footage up to a month old
5) Oplink Connected Alarm Shield
Get peace of mind your home and belongings are secure with this affordable home security system. Get real-time alerts and notifications for multiple locations no matter where life takes you.
Key features:
- Includes door and window sensors, motion sensor, remote controls and siren
- Arm or disarm the system via your smart phone
- Enjoy free self-monitoring or upgrade to premium monitoring (monthly fee)
6) Water Leak Detection System
Prevent small water leaks from becoming a big, expensive problem by getting alerts to problems as soon as they begin. Help protect your family’s health by preventing the growth of mould by monitoring humidity and temperature levels.
Key features:
- Sensor battery can last 10 years or longer
- Easily installs in less than an hour
- No-cost monitoring alerts through push notifications email, and text message
7) Home Door & Window System
Secure and monitor your home remotely with this door and window sensor. Easily add additional sensors for peace of mind around your whole home. Check your home’s status online or through your mobile device.
Key features:
- Notifications let you know when your home’s entryways have been opened
- Up to 3 years of battery life
- Quick and easy installation
8) Single Cylinder Bluetooth Enabled Deadbolt
This smart lock turns your iPhone into your key, and is also compatible with the range of Weiser SmartKey locks and keys, so you can easily integrate it into your home’s current lock system. The mobile app lets you manage your keys and lock from almost anywhere.
Key features:
- Unlimited guest keys at no extra cost
- Compatible with iPhone 4S and above
- Fits most standard doors with no addition holes required
- Does not need power or Internet connection
9) Z-Wave Multi Sensor
Compatible with several popular home automation systems, this sensor detects motion, temperature, lighting, and humidity in its immediate area.
Key features:
- Z-wave technology
- Suitable for indoor/outdoor use
- Up to 2 years battery life
10) Voice-Activated Wireless Intercom
Stay connected up to 1000 feet away with a portable intercom system that lets you connect up to 12 units for whole home coverage.
Key features:
- Secured single or multi-channel connection
- No wires necessary
- Battery powered
Return On Investment
Return on security investment has become a hot topic. Before we get into the raw numbers, it would be naive to not mention home security and home safety. While we can not put a price on your family’s safety, we can all agree that it’s more than the price of a new door, new counters or new deck. Therefore, if you have faulty home security or are thinking of upgrading your current security system, we’d always recommend completing this project first. But before you want to invest in an energy efficient security and smart at the same time, you will to take these into considerations:
- Identify your information assets: Assets can be a resource, personal security, or personal data. Losses in the areas of confidentiality, integrity or availability can have a specific dollar value or be intangible, as with loss of reputation.
- Identify threats and vulnerabilities: Anything that causes an unwanted outcome is a threat.
- Do an asset valuation: Once you've identified your assets and the threats and vulnerabilities that beset them, it's important to go through an asset valuation process. You can create a matrix and value your assets simply in terms of high, medium and low value to the security system investment. For each asset, consider what the total cost, initial and ongoing.
