Dakota Alert added a new sensor to their 4000 series last year and I finally ordered one to test. I love this system. It's simple, cheap, reliable, no external dependencies. The solar-powered breakbeams were an expensive disappointment but otherwise, this system is outstanding. I've had no component failures, few false alerts, battery life of about a year.
The original PIR sensors were limited to 5 degrees of coverage (versus my Arlo coverage of 150 degrees). The new sensors are 1/2 the size, 2/3rds the price, double the battery storage with 110 degree coverage.
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2023/02/new_dakota_sensor_2.jpg)
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2023/02/new_dakota_sensor_1.jpg)
I replaced 10 sensors with 6 new ones, had more latitude in placement, they're less noticeable and the battery life should be about 2 years. On the downside, the rubber seal is gone so they may be less weatherproof but all my sensors are under cover.
Here's my change in area coverage:
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2024/01/new_dakota_coverage_sm-1.jpg)
Here's the total coverage, Arlo + Dakota:
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2023/02/new_full_coverage-2.jpg)
The upgrade took about an hour. Total cost was 5 sensors ($200) and 1 receiver ($60).
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2022/01/smartlock.jpeg)
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2021/03/FourDefenseZones-1.png)
![](https://broward.ghost.io/content/images/2022/08/solar_outdoor.png)
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