Honeywell 5811 vs 5816OD

Although the Honeywell 5811 and 5816OD are both 5800 series surface-mount, wireless security sensors, they have more differences than similarities. The 5811 wafer thin wireless sensor are designed for indoor applications only while the 5816OD's NEMA4X weatherproof rating and extreme operating temperatures (-40° to 150° F) can withstand almost any environment. 

The 5816OD is the only weatherproof, wireless door/window contact that Honeywell offers. Similar to the 5816 (original, indoor model), the 5816OD serves has the ability to serve as two separate zones. When this unit is programmed to loop 1 it will report faults based on a connected wired sensor. If you pop the tamper cover there are two internal screw terminals. You can connect a wired sensor like the PAL-T to the terminals and the unit will wirelessly report faults back to an RF receiver. The most popular way to use this device is to program it loop 2 which uses the internal reed switch and the included magnet to report faults. This a great unit for gates, sheds, and just about anything with a door or window outside. It functions at the standard 200 foot RF maximum range back to the panel. 

Since the 5811s are included in the popular wireless security kits, you may end up with them and wonder how to best use it. The 5811s are versatile, little guys that offer unique solutions to protecting windows, doors, closets, cabinets, safes, etc. There slim profile and tiny magnet make it easy to simply 'peel and stick' the included adhesive tape to just about any surface. Make sure you clean and dry the surface before applying the sensor. Also, keep in mind that wireless sensors with magnets do not like metal materials. If you are mounting the 5811 on a metal door/window ensure that you space the sensor out from the material enough to avoid any RF interference. You can do this by utilizing thicker foam adhesive tape or screwing it to a wooden spacer. The 5811 is a nifty sensor that offers several security solutions in the indoor environment. 

 All in all, the 5811 and the 5816OD are two very different sensors that offer several different approaches to protecting valuables both inside and outside.