Chef40

Thanks folks... this will be a sizeable installation, it will needs to cover lights over about .25 acre... I was envisaging a system that ties back to central controllers and WiFi somewhere. It won't be manageable using smart plugs unfortunately. I'll take a look at Philips Hue, my concern is that system is going be pretty prescriptive over bulbs and fittings, which won't work - we need total flexibility in terms of fittings/bulbs... I had had a quick look at Loxone systems or maybe Wise controls??? Was hoping someone may have done similar. Thanks.

I'd value any input please - looking at a medium sized lighting installation as part of a re-landscaping project. It'll involve different areas of garden and different lighting styles. I'd like to be able to control it all from an App because switches will drive me MAD ? Does anyone have any experience or recommendation in terms of the best system to use behind such a project? Thanks!!

Another vote for HikVision - as I have time and due to being impressed with their offering, I've now taken their installers courses. There are three (or so) parts to consider: 1. Network - Goes without saying you'll need ethernet cable from a central switch to all cameras. The switch will need PoE and should be specced depending on the number of cameras and the associated power draw. Switch placement is crucial because all cables need to go back to it and it can then form part of a wider home networking plan. Also worth noting PoE switches will have a fan, which aren't that silent, so site carefully. Some HikVision DVR's will take care of PoE for you. 2. Cameras - There are many many HikVision cameras. I've found the whole range to do work extremely well and do exactly what it says on the tin. They are also very well catered for with their remote and cloud platforms (HikConnect). Fundamental choices are: a) Fixed or variable focus - Choose based on the depth of field you need and whether this needs to cover a broad range b) Low Light Technology - do you want Darkfighter (Infrered) or TrueColor (white LED) style night lighting c) Resolution - the higher you go, the more storage you need, so think carefully about how many days you need to keep footage for and whether the cameras will be set to record all day or whether recording will be event-linked d) Case - discreet dome, or bullet shaped etc. e) IP rating - do they need to go outdoors etc. f) other features e.g. audio etc. 3. Recording - you can make life easy and get access to all the features of the cams using a HikVision DVR, or you can opt for a more complex NAS style setup. There are pros and cons of each. The biggest factor would be whether you need a NAS anyway. My advice would be that unless you're advanced or professional in IT, networks and cameras you might be best advised to stick with a DVR that takes care of the PoE as well. Setting up a NAS is not that easy and depending on the software you run, you may find you won't get all the native features of a HikVision Product unless you run a VM with Windows and iVMS4200 or similar. Also, it may be worth getting a price for a professional install because Hikvision don't sell to the public so you'll pay a mark-up that may mean the additional cost of an installer is not as much as you think. Hope this helps.

Definitely Cat 6, if not 6a. I work in IT and did my house in 6a and also ran 6a to garages and shed. No regrets! ?

That’s a neat device but the VPN it facilitates is really meant to try and keep your data secure when surfing on open networks. Not sure whether the OP was trying to create a secure link back to a home network when on the move - if so, Sonicwall… if not, your box looks very handy!

That’s really helpful, thanks. I’m not too worried about aesthetics because I plan to put rubber tiles down but I do want the building to last a loooooooong time (it’s cost be heaps!) - would you recommend doing something vs nothing? Thanks!

Thanks - not too worried about staining as the ply is under the rubber flooring but want the building to last…

Thanks - I think that’s best… I had been told by Hikvision the AX Pro is grade 2 but better stick with what you know I reckon!

Sonicwall is very good. Tz270 would cover most home use and comes with 1 included VPN license although you can buy more. The box is around £330 on its own (no software) but you can add any security stuff you like.

Hello. Does anyone have any experience with both please? I have used Texecom and have found them very good but I use Hikvision cameras and the AX Pro alarm would give me tighter integration but I’m loathed to try something new when Texecom is so established and good. any thoughts please? Thanks.

I would try and run Cat 6a cable if you can - it’ll handle 10GB Ethernet when that’s standard in the not too distant future. you can’t go wrong with HP - something like a 2530 switch (bit noisy, so maybe place in cupboard under stairs or similar) and I have had excellent experience with use/features and performance from the Aruba Instant On kit…

Hi, id be really grateful for any advice please… I’ve built a garden building to serve as a shed and workshop (good quality and fully insulated)… I’ve laid class 3 (exterior) ply on the floor but don’t know whether it’s worth treating it with anything for when a wet tractor mower etc. goes on it. I plan to lay some cheap rubber floor mats but they’re unlikely to be fully waterproof. I was looking at Sikaguard universal 5 star wood treatment and/or Thomson’s waterseal but I realise it may be completely unnecessary. any thoughts much appreciated. thanks.

That’s really helpful, thanks very much. Sounds like it’s gonna be tricky - we have a bit-picky neighbour and it would be pretty visible!

Thank you. Unfortunately we do have a neighbour who will object to anything not 100% kosher

Hello! I don’t know whether anyone would be able to help - I cannot find any information anywhere! We live in the South Downs National Park and our house has about an acre of ‘amenity land’. I’ve been told we’re not allowed to remove the fence separating it from our garden, or to turn it into ‘garden curtilage’. BUT I can’t find anything that formally states what you can and can’t do. I’d really like to put a play area on it for our kids but have no idea whether this would be acceptable? VERY grateful for any advice, thanks! Ben