Texecom is one of the largest independent security system and intruder alarms specialist. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Texecom has emerged as one of the largest security system specialists in Europe and has a considerable share of the global security market, especially in commercial intruder alarm markets.

Today, we will guide you about the alarm systems of Texecom and which Texecom intruder alarm you should go with. We will also highlight the shortcomings and best features of Texecom burglar alarms so you should know which system meets your requirements comprehensively.

So let’s get into it.

Texecom Intruder Alarms

As highlighted, Texecom is one of the largest companies in the security systems industry, and so are the Texecom intruder alarms. Texecom has different types of burglar alarm panels that address the needs of various properties and users.

The company has both wired and wireless security systems according to the customers’ needs. Premier Elite and Veritas are two series of Texecom intruder alarms, and each system meets international security standards.

Premier Elite

Premier Elite series of Texecom burglar alarms have a range of panels that address the concerns of business users as well as homeowners looking to get the system installed at their properties. Premier Elite is the most advanced series of the company’s alarm systems that features Ricochet wireless technology.

All burglar alarms of the Premier Elite series have a unified & comprehensive system architecture that can fulfill the needs of customers having a small installation area to complex needs like businesses. However, the cost of the Premier Elite can be on the higher side as compared to other alarms and panels. It is because the system is comprehensive to provide you with full home automation rather than just a security system.

The main burglar alarms and panels in the Premier Elite series are as follows:

1. Premier Elite 640
2. Premier Elite 168
3. Premier Elite 88
4. Premier Elite 64-W Live
5. Premier Elite 64-W
6. Premier Elite 48
7. Premier Elite 24
8. Premier Elite 24(Polymer)

Veritas

The Veritas series of Texecom intruder alarms might not be as popular as the Premier Elite, but the series has been in the market for many years. Veritas R8 and R8 Plus are the most popular alarm panels of the series.

Some of the Veritas series alarm systems fall in the Grade 1 Class II system category that complies with British Standards PD6662: 2017 of the security systems, instead of Grade 2 and upwards which is a requirement for most insurance-approved alarms.

Besides, some of the alarm systems and panels in the Veritas series are popular as DIY alarm systems that are easy to operate and fix. Even more, the series is for users looking for a more affordable home or business alarm system. Make sure your alarm panel meets the standards you may require for monitoring or police response requirements.

The main alarm systems in the Veritas series are as follows:

1. Veritas Excel
2. Veritas R8 Plus
3. Veritas R8
4. Veritas 8 Compact
5. Veritas 8

Features Of Texecom Intruder Alarms

Regardless of which series and which panel you order for installation at your property, here are the main features and capabilities inherent to Texecom intruder alarms:

Control Panel Accessories

When you order a Texecom burglary alarm, you get an accessory of scalability, making these security systems fit for a small home to a big office. The Premier Elite series of Texecom has the capability of multiple zone expanders and a unified programming platform that can control & manage numerous peripheral devices without any hassle. You also get the option of a wide range of connectors and converters to have a smooth installation & usage experience of the Texecom alarm systems.

The largest panel supports up to 640 zones!

Motion Detectors

If we talk about a sound alarm system, motion detection is the most significant aspect that decides the efficiency of a security system. And when it comes to Texecom alarm systems, they have motion detectors with good catch performance.

The motion detector technology of Texecom is characterized by decent PIR sensors, EN50131-2 certification, and flicker-free detections due to the superior performance of microwave detections. Microwave motion detection also reduces the disturbance caused due to fluorescent lights on your property.

For more accuracy, the customers also have the choice of detection mode among DT (PIR & Microwave detection for maximum performance), PW(Petwise) on properties prone to pet intrusion, and CW (Clockwise) for enhanced performance.

Ricochet Wireless Technology

Ricochet wireless system also has self-healing functionality in case the connection between two devices weakens due to an interruption in the signaling route. The other features of Ricochet-enabled wireless security systems include two-way communication between devices & control systems as well as mesh networks to support several wireless devices for a comprehensive security system.

Digital Services For Value Addition

Digital services of Texecom alarm systems are yet another add-on you can get to control your home’s security better. The Texecom SmartCom communicators allow the users to connect the Texecom intruder alarms with the digital services of Texecom via WiFi, Mobile Data(4G), or Ethernet, according to your convenience.

The Texecom cloud account allows the customers to have a remote management system or Texcom Connect to control the security system installed on their property. Yet another digital service of Texecom is Texecom Monitor, which integrates seamlessly with the Premier Elite series for simpler & quick alarm communications.

Compliance With International Security Standards

The company has a clean chit if we talk about the compliance of Texecom intruder alarms with international and UK security standards. Most of the intruder alarms and security systems of Texecom meet commercial-grade wireless technology as well as the highest standards of the UK security system requirements.

Is Texecom Alarm any good?

It depends on who you ask and what the system is used for! Let us look at some of the good features of the system.

Positives of Texecom Intruder Alarms

Tailored Security Systems

The first good thing about the alarm systems of Texecom is that the company has tailored solutions for different types of users and security needs. From motion detectors to peripheral devices and technology to tailored to high-end and large property installations, Texecom allows customers to design their security system.

Texecom Connect App

Like all other manufacturers, Texecom has pivoted towards smart connectivity with Texecom Connect app to allow 24/7 control and convenience to access your alarm system directly from your mobile phone or tablet. You can manage who can access your security system, adjust the system settings, and even have real-time access to your property via cameras. The Texecom Connect app makes the company’s security systems provide a better experience and smarter homes & business premises.

Installation

Being considered a professional-grade alarm, Texecom alarms are recommended and fitted by approved Installers with experience in the product range.

Shortcomings Of Texecom Intruder Alarms

Some of the shortcomings we have found with Texecom intruder alarms and those reported by our customers are as follows:

False Triggers

A problem customers report is the false alarm triggers when a pet of over 25 kg moves around the property. The Petwise motion detection mode of Texecom promises correct detection for up to 35 kg weighing pets. However, the customer feedback says otherwise about the claims made by the company.

Battery Outage

Some users have also reported issues with the security system’s battery which completely goes out if there is a power outage of anywhere between 2 hours to 3 hours. The main system battery is not chargeable and goes completely flat in case of a power outage. It means you will have additional expenses every now and then if your property faces frequent power outages.

Need a Professional Team Of Engineers

Most of the alarm systems of Texecom are not DIY, and you will need professionals to take care of installation, servicing, and fixing any issues. So if you have been looking for a DIY alarm system, look at options other than Texecom.

There are fewer engineers who work on old fashioned wired alarms than before and that brings its own challenges to the industry and particularly to products like Texecom.

As a professional installation company that deals with over 40 products, we looked at Texecom 3-4 times over the last decade or so, and opted not to take on Texecom alarms. One reason was a lack of a wireless keypad to go with wireless alarm systems and the number of years it took for them to release the product.

Over-specification

Considering most Texecom products have focused on their wired product range for commercial and large installations with sometimes up to 640 zones, we often find high-end Texecom products are over-specified for smaller properties and residential customers.

Aesthetics

With most consumers, end-users, and manufacturers focusing on the user interface, look and feel of products, Texecom alarm panels, keypads, and accessories come across as outdated and perhaps a decade behind, compared to some of the more stylish products from the likes of Qolsys and similar products we currently offer.

What to do with your existing Texecom Alarm?

Already have an old Texecom alarm that needs fixing or upgrading? Our team at FHA Security has considerable experience in upgrading old wired Texecom alarms to something modern. We can upgrade using existing devices in your alarm, or by using some of the existing cabling,s or into something completely new, like a smart wireless alarm with home automation capabilities.

Final Words

This is an independent Texecom alarm review based on the expertise of some of our security professionals and engineers who has knowledge of the system. Besides, we have also factored in the customer feedback and reviews of Texecom alarm users to give you honest advice about security alarms.

If you are considering a new alarm system, you should definitely shortlist it for high-end commercial installations and for residential or smaller commercial sites, there are plenty of smarter, easier-to-use, and better-suited products out there.

We at FHA haven’t done a fully wired burglar alarm since 2012. We currently have just one manufacturer, Risco, in our portfolio who still makes a wired product designed to work as a straight swap for a legacy hard wired alarm systems. It is as labour intensive and at times costlier than fitting a brand-new wireless alarm altogether.

So, if you have a wired security alarm, what are your options? Have a look below.

1. Do Nothing!

If it ain’t broken…

There is no urgent reason for you to do anything as long as the following factors are considered.

1. Is your wired alarm system working properly?
2. Are you servicing your wired alarm system yearly?
3. Do you have all the burglar system codes needed?
4. Do you have the user manual?
5. Are you in touch with a product expert engineer or a company that can assist you with regular support and servicing of your system?
6. Do you know what to do if the system develops a fault on the weekend?
7. Is your alarm system older than ten years?
8. Has the manufacturer discontinued the product?
9. Are spare parts still available for the system?
10. Would it be beneficial for you to upgrade the system and take advantage of more advanced safety and smart living features?

It is critical that you know the answers to these questions and be able to identify whether you are prepared to handle an emergency situation with your system.

I emphasise this assessment as we regularly answer calls on weekends and late nights from homeowners with old alarms that they know nothing about. They usually panic when they are told nothing can be done without having at least some if not all information at hand.

So what are your options with an old system?

Get your wired alarm system professionally serviced regularly. Ensure everything is working fine and make sure you know how to operate the system properly. It is easier said than done, as very few technicians still work on old wired alarms. And even if you have found a good engineer local enough to you, parts and labour can be expensive. The reason being, old systems take a lot longer to troubleshoot and fix and hard wired alarm system kits are often discontinued. 

Or

Look at our other upgrade options.

2. Upgrade to a New Wired Alarm System or a Hybrid Alarm

One option is to check if you can use the existing wiring to upgrade the alarm to a more modern and technology-oriented system. It is a good idea on paper, and there are still a handful of solutions out there that can fit this requirement.

Repositioning devices, adding extra sensors, or enhancing protection on an existing wired setup is always challenging, time-consuming and costly.

It would either mean running exposed cables within the house right from the wired control panel to wired sensors or adding a wireless module to the alarm (available on some wired alarm models) to make it a hybrid (part wired and part wireless) burglar alarm system.

Possible Issues with a Hybrid Alarm System

Many security companies will not agree to upgrade an alarm with your existing wiring. It is mainly because there might be problems when you do it with current wiring. Wiring faults are often difficult to identify, time consuming and expensive to fix.

Some common problems could be realising that the cables are damaged while the new system installation is almost complete or replacing your old alarm, which is sitting pretty much inside the plastering.

Upgrading to a hybrid alarm system is a good option if you want to add extra sensors or devices. Again, the price can go up, and with two types of alarm technologies working together, you will soon find out that you have got enough choices, flexibility, and more control with wireless devices than the wired ones.

However, if the wiring is older than ten years, it may be wise to completely ignore this route and go for the other home security systems (listed below).

3. Wireless Burglar Alarm System

If your hardwired security system is over ten years old, the most sensible option is to upgrade to a new fully wireless alarm.

When we replace old wired alarms for our customers, we even help them remove their existing systems. A wireless alarm system is not only simple to use, but it also includes a plethora of features that make it a complete security package for any home. It outperforms a traditional wired intruder alarm system in every imaginable way, which depends on wires and cables.

Wireless alarms have complete dominance in the home security market now. All manufacturers have either entirely or mainly transitioned to wireless solutions for several reasons.

• Easier to Install & Upgrade:

  Because wireless home alarm systems do not require cables or wires, they are simpler to install and upgrade. Furthermore, the system’s components are easily replaceable. A typical wireless installation can be completed within 2-4 hours, while a wired system can take 6 hours to 2 days – wiring being the most time-consuming part.

• Flexible & Scalable:

  These systems are portable, and you can easily upgrade them by adding sensors to them at any time. The system can grow with your growing demands – whether it is that nice extension or additional protection for your little one’s bedroom window.

• Multiple choices of communications:

  You can choose from call alerts, text messages and notifications on smartphones using a selection of landline, sim card or broadband-based modules.

• Compatible with your Smart Home:

  Advanced wireless alarms use home automation technology, allowing them to integrate with your smart home.

• Tamper-proof and more Secure:

  Communication in a wireless alarm system is relatively fast, reliable, and secure. It is also tamper-proof. As a result, there is no danger of disabling cables or removing devices. Always make sure your new burglar alarm is grade 2, insurance approved and meets EN 50131 standards.

• Battery-powered:

  Wireless alarms work on batteries and can operate continuously even when there is no power supply. In addition, the control panel includes backup battery power if there is a power failure.

• Choice of multiple sirens:

  You can choose to have multiple internal and external sirens with the alarm. Most of our standard alarm packages come with each of these sirens. You can always choose to have additional live or dummy sirens outside for extra protection.

• Troubleshooting costs:

  Most wireless systems have self-diagnosis and trouble reporting in every device. Such information can be passed to the control panel and even to your phone if it is a smart system. Talk about convenience and ease of dealing with faults.

You can find some of the best wireless alarm system options here.

4. Smart House Alarm Systems

A smart alarm is a more advanced burglar alarm with advanced features such as remote access control and monitoring. You can either connect the alarm panel to your broadband or add a dedicated GSM or LTE sim card unit inside the alarm system to communicate with your alarm control panel.

The key features of smart alarms are:

• Arm and disarm the system from anywhere in the world with the smartphone app. Ideal for giving kids, neighbours, parents, or cleaners access into the house if you are away, without them worrying about triggering the alarm.
• Get instant notifications on alarm activation and other alarm related activities as push notifications on the app or via email.
• Add camera sensors or video cameras to keep an eye on the house or your pets when you are away.
• Sim card connections options will have an ongoing cost associated with sim top-up charges.
• Some cloud connections come with subscription charges. You would want a well maintained and secured connection with advanced encryption anyway. Look out for ‘Secured by Design’ approval on cloud services.

We, at FHA, have seen massive uptake for smart alarms in the last 5 – 6 years. About 70% of new installations we do now are smart alarms now, and we expect this only to grow with old fashioned landlines being set to discontinue.

You can read more about that here.

5. Smart Alarm with Integrated Home Automation

In the last few years, a lot of progress has been made with true smart living and integrating home security with home automation. While protocols were defined for years for Z-wave devices, there have always been challenges with integrating and getting different products with different functionalities talking to each other.

We have made loads for advancement by introducing our most advanced Qolsys (Quality of Life Systems) smart alarm home automation system. You can read our in-depth review of the Qolsys alarm system here.

It is an iPad like alarm control panel that integrates six different wireless technologies into it, allowing you to integrated Visonic’s most advanced Powermaster wireless technology with the widest choice of home automation devices approved by alarm.com’s cloud management system.

Allow me to paint you a picture!

You are coming home with kids, your pets and your shopping. Your hands are full! Your smartwatch knows you are within metres of the house and unlocks the smart lock on your door, and disarms the alarm for you. It records this information and even takes a photo when the alarm is disarmed.

It automatically turns on your lights, TV, and heating, and it can even schedule your household appliances, such as your robotic vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, and washer-dryer, to save you money on electricity.

Your system can quickly learn your usual plans and notifies you when something unusual happens. When you leave the house, it automatically locks your door and arms the alarm for you as well.

If you have a visitor, your video doorbells and video cameras with advanced analytics notify you when they get near the property, and you can talk to them, let them into the house if needed and much more.

The future looks exciting, isn’t it?

So might wonder what you would do with your spare time? Why not use this time and do what you enjoy or go back to option 1- Do nothing!

What are the benefits of using Smart Technology?

Smart technology has numerous advantages, and consumer home automation has made homeowners’ lives easier and more convenient.

Managing all of the smart devices through various smartphone apps could be difficult. This is where a smart home automation hub can help, allowing you to manage everything from a single location.

When all smart devices are linked together, they form a smart home automation hub.

A smartphone app enables you to control the smart home automation hub from your phone easily. You don’t have to manage separate apps for each of your devices anymore. Instead, everything can be managed through a single app.

The most amazing aspect of this technology is connecting multiple devices to trigger an automated action. You can, for example, integrate your alarm system with your smart door. As a result, every time you lock your door, your alarm will be activated.

Alarm.com offers a home management solution that allows homeowners to manage everything from a single platform. Thanks to its user-friendly app, you can control everything with just a few clicks.

Summary

The key takeaway from looking at your old alarm system is aware of the implications of each of these options- doing nothing, upgrading your old system or starting over with a new system- has on your home, family and peace of mind.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to give us a call at 020 3137 8727 or write to us at hello@fhasecurity.co.uk. We are always happy to chat about securing your home and protecting what matters to you the most.