Hey everyone, I’ve been diving into setting up a seamless security system for my new place, and I thought I’d share my journey and some tips along the way! 
My Goal:
I wanted to create a system where I could monitor my front door effortlessly. The main features I envisioned were:
- Immediate live video notifications on my phone/tablet when someone presses the doorbell or when motion is detected.
- Automatic recording of video clips whenever there’s movement or a doorbell press.
- The ability to have two camera views: one from my existing Hikvision camera and another from a dedicated doorbell camera.
- Two-way communication with visitors (nice-to-have, but not a must-have).
- Remote door unlocking capability from the same app (a bonus feature I’m excited to explore).
What I’ve Done So Far:
I’ve installed a Schlage Camelot touchscreen lock and set up a Hikvision camera with BlueIris for video surveillance. The BlueIris setup has been a lifesaver for recording and motion detection. However, I’m now looking to integrate a dedicated video doorbell to enhance this setup further.
Challenges & Solutions:
One thing I’ve noticed is that while the basic functionality works (motion detection and recording), achieving a truly seamless integration between the doorbell, camera, and lock has been a bit of a puzzle. I’ve been exploring Vera and Hubitat as potential hubs to tie everything together, but I’m still experimenting with the best way to streamline the process.
Tips for Others:
If you’re looking to set up something similar, here are a few tips I’ve picked up:
- Plan Your Layout: Make sure your cameras are positioned to cover the entry area effectively. I learned this the hard way after realizing my initial setup had some blind spots!
- Leverage Existing Systems: If you already have a security system in place, consider how you can integrate new devices without overhauling everything. BlueIris, for example, has been a great complement to my setup.
- Automation is Key: Don’t shy away from using automation rules to simplify your system. Vera’s automation features have been incredibly helpful in creating the workflows I need.
Looking Ahead:
I’m really excited about the potential of this setup. The idea of being able to monitor my door from anywhere and even unlock it remotely is something I never thought I’d get used to, but it’s incredibly convenient! I’d love to hear from others who’ve tackled similar projects—what worked for you? Any hidden gotchas I should be aware of?
Let’s keep the conversation going and help each other create smarter, safer homes! 
