Piper nv iControl security network review

1. Introduction2. Unboxing3. Piper NV Icontrol4. Testing5. Final Thoughts6. View All Pages

The Piper nv is a very versatile piece of kit for those that want a comprehensive security solution for their home or small business. As well as providing a solid remotely viewable camera system, it offers a number of rules that are automatically adhered to by the system, letting you set up deeply customised security and environmental controls for the home or office.

The camera feed itself offers a huge field of view, good quality and very quick access streaming options through the application. Its built-in night vision functionality is a welcome addition, though does require the extra expenditure over the standard Piper system. The inclusion of a surprisingly loud and attention-getting alarm is a good secondary security feature, that when combined with the door/window sensor lets anyone install a pretty versatile security system that is far easier to use than a traditional alarm.

That is actually the biggest take home from my time using the Piper nv –  it is simple. With full application control anywhere in the world where you have internet access, many options for expansions over time and deep customisation, it is hard to imagine a feature that is missing. And it does not even require a complicated set up. Within just a few minutes of opening the box you have a great camera at your disposal, but if you are the kind of person that likes to dive into app menus and customise the security system, you will have a lot of fun setting everything to do the work for you.

The only holes worth picking are that the camera feed's buzzing background noise is irritating and you should be able to download the footage for analysis somewhere other than your android or iOS device – but that sounds like a feature that is coming down the pipeline.

The whole set up also is not particularly economical. The main camera hub is the most versatile and affordable aspect of it, but if you start factoring in Z-Wave accessories, deeper pockets than most may be required – even if it might save you a few pennies on your power usage. Which makes you wish for the support of cheaper third-party alternatives.

That said, this is the best connected home and office security solution I've ever tested. Its simplicity is its biggest draw, but it has deep, heavily customisable features that feel very comprehensive even after several weeks of use.

The Piper nv can be purchased from the BT store for £230, with accessories costing anywhere from a few pounds to £40.

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Pros

• Versatile camera system with wide-angle view, zoom and different quality options.
• App is easy to use, set up and manage.
• Stay, Away and Vacation modes let you set rules for different scenarios.
• Controls can be customised and tweaked to your specific setting.
• Alarm is loud and abrasive enough to give intruders a surprise.
• Notifications and live video can be viewed anywhere in the world.

Cons

• No third-party hardware support.
• While worth the money, it is not cheap.
• Videos can only be viewed through the app and cannot be downloaded.

KitGuru Says: The Piper nv is an excellent security system, which while lacking third-party hardware compatibility, does just about everything you could want.

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