11.15.19 – SSI -SANTA MONICA, Calif.
The system allows homeowners to use legacy wired sensors to make their existing home security system smart and compatible with Ring Alarm.
Ring announced this week that its Retrofit Alarm Kit — with a wired-to-wireless bridge — is now available for pre-order. The system, which retails for $199, is said to enable homeowners to connect their existing legacy home security systems’ wired contact sensors to their Ring Alarm.
In a press release, Amazon-owned Ring cites there are an estimated 29 million functional residential security systems in the United States, plus “many more that sit dormant.” The kit enables homeowners to utilize legacy wired sensors installed in the premise to make their existing home security system smart and compatible with Ring Alarm.
First publicized in September at Amazon’s fall products announcement event, the company recommends the kit be professionally installed but is not required. The existing wired alarm panel does not need to be actively monitored or in use; however, the wired zones — including door and window sensors and motion sensors — do need to be operational with no damage.
The Retrofit offering can also be bundled with the company’s alarm hub for $375, which will allow users to connect and control any “Works with Ring” smart home devices with the Ring app. Users can wire up to eight zones with one Retrofit Alarm Kit. The system is not intended to be used with wired smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) detectors or existing keypads.
With the kit, users can opt for a $10 per month subscription service that enables them to receive mobile notifications when connected wired zones are opened. Other available features through the app include system arm/disarm, manage Ring Video doorbells, receive clips of video events and more. Professional monitoring is also available.
SSI‘s December publication will include a cover story on Ring. Company leaders discuss how what has been a DIY-oriented business, that expanded into security systems and surveillance cameras, is actively growing its pro install channel.