Mod: Ring Alarm System
DETAILS: Ring Alarm System
After my RV was broken in to while in storage, I was determined to install a “whole house” alarm system. After all, even the chassis lacks a basic car alarm or theft deterrent of any kind. I learned the hard way that an unattended RV is a sitting duck full of potentially valuable items. The Ring Alarm System is a highly rated system that has every feature and function you could ever want. It’s modular, so you can add to it over time (i.e. additional sensors, cameras, etc.). I hard-wired the “brain” directly to the 12v system so it’s active all the time and doesn’t require the use of the inverter.
Features and Functions Overview
I added sensors to every door and storage compartment for a total of 10 sensors. If desired, the system can alert you the moment any door is opened (or closed), and it will specify which door was breached using the name you assigned. I also installed the included motion detector and added the optional Smoke & CO Listener…
If you have internet in your RV, ….
Components of Ring Alarm System
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Main Door: …
Driver/Passenger Door: …
All Compartment Doors: …
Motion Sensor: …
Sirens: …
Smoke & CO Detector: …
Standalone vs. Wi-Fi Mode
The alarm system works with or without Wi-Fi….
Mounting the Base Station
I mounted the base station on the wall behind the TV with two black Command Picture Hanging Strips (see photos). Each strip is rated for 16 lb. which is more than enough for the relatively light base station. I’ve driven more than 3,500 miles since it was mounted and it hasn’t moved. And just like with all Command products, the hanging strips are removable and will leave no damage or residue behind.
Powering the Alarm System
The Ring Alarm System comes with a 110vac power supply adaptor which plugs into a regular electrical outlet and steps down the voltage to 5vdc. I cut the wires to the power supply (see photos) and hard-wired it straight into the RV’s 12vdc electrical system via a DC to DC buck converter.
For a power source, I tapped the 12vdc wires feeding the antenna booster located nearby (behind the TV). I stowed the DC to DC buck converter in the space behind the black metal sidewall (behind the TV).
Placement of Sensors
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The Ring Smartphone App
The free Ring app in the App Store….e View”! The app allows you to remotely monitor, arm and disarm the system (requires Wi-Fi in the RV).
Echo Dot Setup and Integration
Although it isn’t required, adding an Echo Dot makes the alarm system even smarter and more interactive….
Ring Alarm System: www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZPMCW64
Additional Contact Sensor: www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZB2QLC2
Smoke & CO Detector: www.amazon.com/dp/B08FFB233Y
DC to DC Buck Converter: www.amazon.com/dp/B00CBCGAL8
Echo Dot: www.amazon.com/dp/B07FZ8S74R
Command Picture Hanging Strips: www.amazon.com/dp/B073XV1P16