sms module - worth it?

[parrotchute]

I'm considering buying a SMS module, but the cost is a little intimidating. Knowing about a power outage and being able to respond is priceless though.
Couple questions maybe people can help me out with.
With a SIM card - how long do they last before they expire? I.e., if I bought a $20 card, does it last until the money is used up, or in general, do they have an expiration date? Any recommendations on a company that sells them with good terms?

Does it come with a PAB cable or is that an additional cost?

How long does the battery in the module last?

I'm a little nervous about spending so much just for power outage notification, ya? I basically have my p3 connected to the internet now so none of the other SMS functions are valuable.

 

[parrotchute]

I was thinking I could use this instead?

http://www.diycontrols.com/p-6195-agm-gsm-cellular-remote-alarm-module.aspx
with
http://www.diycontrols.com/p-6572-homesitter-temperature-water-and-power-alarm-hs-700.aspx

 

[AQD_ottawa]

Yes worth it 100%

If your power went out on the ProfiLux entirely how would you know? The ProfiLux is dead, the houe is dead, but the SMS module is alive and kicking!

The items you mention will not configure to the GHL in anyway.

 

[parrotchute]

I know they won't configure into the GHL - but, hey power out is power out and any alarms I can recieve from profilux at that point is moot anywhere, because the big emergency is already known.

That being said, the SMS module seem smore reliable and compact.
Can you recommend a good SIM card? That's mostly what I'm leery about. Ideally it would be something that I can put money on but lasts for a while without expiring. (since basically the only thing I'll need to use minutes for is for power outage SMS)

 

[AQD_ottawa]

I think most use AT&T pay as you go.

you put money on the card as you want to this way you are in control of the expenditure.

Back to my office bed! There are a few SMS users here that can help im my absence

 

[parrotchute]

Thanks Michael! Wow, quick responses right after surgery!! Amazing!

 

[dipan]

I use a T-mobile sim. Readily available on ebay and, when I was checking, was cheaper per SMS.

 

[parrotchute]

awesome, thanks a lot dipan!