What is the Best Door/Window Sensor for the VISTA-P Security System?

The best door and window sensor for a Vista-P security system depends on the needs of the end user. Both surface-mounted and recessed sensors can be used. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. A wireless receiver is needed to use a wireless contact with a VISTA panel.

When choosing a door and window contact for a VISTA panel, the user must decide whether they want a wireless contact or a hardwired contact. A wireless contact will communicate with the security system without wires. A hardwired contact will need to have a wire run from the panel to the door or window. This makes these contacts more difficult to install. On the bright side, hardwired contacts are usually cheaper, and they do not mandate any further add-ons for the panel.

With that in mind, wireless contacts are easier to install. Unfortunately, they are often more expensive than hardwired contacts. Additionally, a wireless contact requires a wireless receiver for the hardwired VISTA system. This allows the panel to receive wireless RF communication signals from the contact. If the user decides to go with a wireless sensor, then they must make sure it communicates at a frequency of 345 MHz. Both Honeywell contacts and 2GIG contacts communicate at this frequency.

Next, the user must choose between a surface-mounted sensor and a recessed sensor. A surface-mounted sensor and its magnet both rest on the outside of a door or window. This type of sensor requires no drilling, and it is very easy to install. That said, some find surface-mounted sensors to be less charming than recessed sensors. This is because a surface-mounted sensor and its magnet are visible on the outside of a door or window.

A recessed sensor and its magnet go into two drilled holes in the door or window. The sensor goes into the hole drilled into the door or window frame. The magnet goes into the hole drilled into the door or window itself. This makes the contact invisible from the outside. Many people choose recessed sensors for this reason. One downside to recessed sensors is that they need drilling. They are also more difficult to install.

Below are some great contacts for VISTA panels based on the type of contact the user chooses:

Wireless, Surface-Mounted: 5800MINI, 5816, 5820L

Wireless, Recessed: 5818MNL, 5800RPS, 5800Micra

Hardwired, Surface-Mounted: Honeywell 940, Honeywell 949

Hardwired, Recessed: 951WG, 944T