I recently wired up a Vista 20P panel for the first time for use in a new series of upcoming tests.
Given that Vista panels, and specifically the 20P, is used so commonly in easily tens of thousands of systems, it is a solid candidate to start evaluations with.
One thing that surprised me was how complex it was to commission.
Specifically, programming and indexing/addressing the system was significantly more of a chore than with the current deluge of DIY products on the market. Most everything in security is web or client configurable via GUI, but Vista programming is still chugging through a serial keypad using codes.
I understand it is unfair to compare Vista and DIY on many attributes, as Vista is far more extensible and certified for commercial uses. But on the issue of getting the system up and going, the 'higher end' Vista system is simply weaker.
So with that said, is Vista the most complex? How are other intrusion systems like DSC, DMP, Napco, or 2GIG?