Just wasted $150 on a 'universal' wireless siren that wouldn't pair with any of my panels

I bought it for a quick job thinking it would save me time, but after trying to sync it with three different systems and spending over two hours on it, I had to go buy the specific model anyway, so what's your go-to brand for reliable wireless outdoor sirens that actually work the first time?

4 comments

4 Comments

charles212mo ago

Check the FCC ID for real compatibility.

susan_adams2mo ago

Yeah, the FCC ID is the only way to be sure. I bought a cheap wireless charger that claimed it worked with my phone, but it was super slow. Looked up the ID on the FCC site and found it was only certified for a much lower power output. Saved me from buying the same brand's tablet stand later. The marketing copy will lie, but those test reports don't.

davidkim2mo ago

That FCC lookup tip from susan_adams is a total game changer.

cole_flores444d ago

...and honestly I feel like people get way too bent out of shape over this stuff. Like yeah the FCC lookup thing is cool and all, but in my experience most of these sirens just work if you get the right one for your panel brand. I've had the same battery powered unit from Honeywell for like four years now, never even looked at the FCC ID. Not saying @davidkim is wrong, but I think sometimes we overthink these things. A buddy of mine bought some no-name siren off Amazon for $35 and it paired faster than my expensive one. Your mileage may vary but I wouldn't lose sleep over the FCC stuff unless you're buying something super sketchy.