Tell me about home security systems
 

So who's got one?

I want a system that will call me in the event of a break in. I don't want to pay the $30-$50/month fee for "monitoring". I see all the big companies (Brinks, ADT, etc.) sell monitoring, but I just want the hardware smart enough to call me. A text message would be preferred ;)

Do the security system controllers from companies like GE offer this functionality without signing up for a monthly service?

Check around on-line. There are cheap "monitoring" companies that offer exactly what you are asking about. Sorry - I don't have personal experience or recommendations for one though.