For a number of years now the Hills NX4 Alarm System have been trusted and relied upon for home and small business security. It is known for being simple and reliable, tough and affordable and it has provided security for homes across Australia and further afield. However, technology is constantly evolving and the Hills NX4 users are starting to wonder – Is it time to upgrade? And if so, what upgrade path is best?
In this blog we outline some upgrade paths for the Hills NX4 Alarm System and help you determine whether you want to enhance your current system or if you are going to look to new technologies.
✅Reasons to Consider Upgrading Your Hills NX4 Alarm?
Hills Alarm System is still working and is still reliable, but like anything, it does have a few limitations as outlined below.
- No Smart Home integrations
- Limited remote control unless you have added third-party modules
- Wired system, no wireless sensors able to be integrated out of the box
- Old-fashioned keypad and interface
- No mobile app or cloud connected services
If any of these features matter to you, you probably want to consider upgrading.
🔄 Option 1: Add-ons to the Hills NX4
If your Hills NX4 system is still running fine, you can even add features without having to change it out altogether:
🔌 1. ComNav or Trikdis (Protegus App):
This will create an internet-connected alarm system with a mobile app for control, allowing:
- Remote arming/disarming
- Mobile app alerts
- Real time activity monitoring
📱 2. Third-party automation:
Some installers may allow the NX4 to be connected to third-party smart home hubs (like Trikdis), but it generally requires some tech-savviness and a professional installer to set it all up.
🔧 3. Modern Keypad:
You can also make a modern LED or LCD keypad swap and take advantage of a modern keypad’s usability and a fresh look while retaining your Hills Alarm System.
🛠️ Pros: Lower cost; retains the current wiring/configuration and sensors
❗ Cons: Limited by older generation NX4 architecture
🏠 Option 2: Replace the NX4 with a Hills Modern Alarm System
If you are ready for an entire replacement, Hills has some newer products, like:
🔹 Hills Reliance XR Series
A powerful upgrade path with many NX Add-on compatibility, including:
- Remote access from apps
- Higher zone capacity
- Better user interface
🔹 Hills TouchNav Keypad
If you use a new XR panel with a TouchNav touchscreen keypad your security system can have a contemporary, modern interface.
🛠️ Pros: Greater features, app have been developed, improved user experience
❗ Cons: Increased costs and possible rewiring, if you switched to wireless sensors.
💡 So what is your best option?
Here’s a quick recap to assist in your decision:
| Situation | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| System still working, budget conscious | Add-ons to NX4 |
| Want app control + modern features | Upgrade to Reliance XR |
| Planning full smart home integration | Switch to a modern smart system |
| Old system failing or no longer supported | Full replacement advised |
🛠️ Overall
The Hills NX4 Alarm System has been reliable for many homeowner’s over the years; however, the speed of technology change has arrived and it’s probably worth considering whether it is time to upgrade. Whether you want something smarter without changing the system or whether you are ready to enter a whole new world of wireless and app controls, there is a solution available for every property and budget.
Do you require professional advice or assistance with installation? Speak with a Hills professional installer to find the best solution for you.