I am looking to install a Simon 3 system. I find most sensors/transmitters are available in "SAW" and/or "crystal" there is apparently a difference in technology. What is the difference? Why? Thanks Mark.

 

Take a look at www.itii.com for the manufacturer's site.
Basically, there's not a whole lot of difference. As an installer, I prefer crystal sensors, but this is more for ease of installation. Crystal sensors have 2 internal reeds, so they can be mounted horizontally or vertically in respect to the magnet (in other words, the magnet can be beside the TX or at the end of it and it works the same.) They also come with a terminal block for an external contact (like if you wanted to wire 2 windows to 1 TX.) SAW sensors need a special adaptor to plug-in for their external contacts (the price of the terminal block almost makes up the difference in the 2 types of sensors.) Also, Crystal sensors use a better encryption technology and the signal is supposed to carry farther. Personally, I've installed both and never had transmission problems with either. One last thing, SAW uses 2 AAA batteries. All the Crystal TX use 3V Lithium batteries, so they last almost twice as long. When it comes to motions, SAW vs. Crystal is not much of a factor, batteries are different, TX is supposed to be farther with Crystal, as far as installation, it's the same either way. It really comes down to a matter of preference. Since you're not a regular installer and this is a one-time thing for you, I wouldn't stress over the details of the 2. Just make sure whoever you buy from doesn't overcharge you for the Crystal stuff, it's only a couple bucks more at dealers cost.

Good Luck! Let us know how you like the Simon III, I haven't installed one yet (I'm still using Simon II since it's now on sale to clear them out )

 

Thank you sir.

You say "Just make sure whoever you buy from doesn't overcharge you for the Crystal stuff, it's only a couple bucks more at dealers cost."

I guess that's the trick I've found Norco/Security store unresponsive and Alarmyourself.com responsive but.
I don't believe price is everything but it is important.
Any direction as to a competent ITI supplier would be appreciated.

My hope is a local supplier will be competitive on parts and available hourly to consult (when I screw up).

 

Well, since I don't know your location, I can't give you a local dealer
But if you want to know if you're getting a good price or not, let me know, I'm an authorized ITI dealer, so I will know if they are overcharging you.

 

Thanks Brandon

I'm In Denver Co. have had a call and email in to one local dealer since last Wed's with no responce. Business must be booming

 

I could find a local dealer for you in Denver, but it will be Monday before I can put in that call. Let me ask you this, would you be apposed to a Simon II instead? You could save about $100 or more on it, since they are trying to clear them out now. There's not a whole lot of difference in the 2, mainly the voice on the system is different, but most people get sick of that after a week or 2 anyway. Let me know what you think, look at www.itii.com to see the differences in the panels. I can get really good deals on Simon II basic kits (2doors/1motion) right now. The installation and everything on the 2 is the same, only 2 wires to run, soooo simple.

 

Thanks again Brandon

Check your email.