For users who rely on DIRECTV for their primary television service, integrating a Securitas Security System (often referred to as Sec Network) requires specific technical considerations to ensure both security and uninterrupted entertainment. While these are two distinct service categories—security monitoring and satellite television—they can coexist on the same property without interference. This guide outlines the necessary steps and technical knowledge required to successfully manage a Sec Network alongside your DIRECTV setup, ensuring optimal performance for both systems.
Understanding the Infrastructure: Sec Network and DIRECTV
The primary challenge when combining a Sec Network security system with DIRECTV lies in the communication protocols each device utilizes. A Sec Network typically relies on low-voltage wiring for sensors and a broadband connection (often via cellular or IP) for transmitting alarm signals to a central monitoring station. DIRECTV, on the other hand, requires a high-bandwidth coaxial cable connection to deliver satellite television signals to your receivers. The key to compatibility is ensuring that the physical pathways and signal types remain isolated to prevent data corruption.
Network Segmentation for Security
Modern Sec Network systems frequently utilize your home’s existing Ethernet wiring to connect sensors to the control panel. If you are using a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) or Network Video Recorder (NVR) for security camera footage, this creates a local network that must be segmented correctly. To avoid bandwidth contention, it is advisable to configure your security network to use a dedicated VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) or a separate subnet. This ensures that the constant data flow from security cameras does not interfere with the streaming requirements of DIRECTV receivers located on the same physical network switch.
Installation Best Practices and Physical Separation
During the installation phase, physical separation of cables is the most effective method for preventing interference. Running coaxial cables for DIRECTV and low-voltage wiring for the Sec Network in separate conduits or along separate studs is the industry standard. If running cables through attics or crawl spaces is unavoidable, maintaining a minimum distance of six inches between the different cable types helps to mitigate signal bleed, which can degrade your television picture quality or disrupt the arming sequence of your security system.
Addressing RF Interference (RFI)
Even with proper routing, you might encounter RF Interference (RFI) if the cables are too close. This interference often manifests as static on your television screen or, in severe cases, a failure of the security system to communicate. If you experience pixelation or freezing on your DIRECTV boxes, check to see if the coaxial cable running to the splitter is running parallel to the Sec Network wiring for an extended distance. Re-routing one of the cables usually resolves this issue without the need for additional shielding.
