November 2025 Archives

Thanksgiving is here once again! The Alarm Grid offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27th, so our team can enjoy time with their families. Our office will be open and back to normal hours on Friday, November 28th, at 9:00 AM EST. Despite our office being closed, central station monitoring will be handled as it always is; quickly and professionally.

Monitoring Station Contact Information

Even though our office is closed, your security system keeps working around the clock. Our central station partners at Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS) and Rapid Response will be monitoring systems and responding to alarms all day Thursday. We appreciate their professionalism and commitment to keeping our customers safe.

If you need to contact the monitoring station during the holiday to report a false alarm or put your system on test mode, here's who to call:

US Customers: Call CMS at (888) 818-7728 and press Option [9]. Have your name, address, and false alarm password handy when the operator picks up.

Canadian Customers: Call Rapid Response at (800) 932-3822 with your name, address, and false alarm password ready.

Quick heads-up: Make sure you give them the correct information. If you accidentally provide an incorrect password or your Duress password instead of your false alarm password, they'll dispatch help. Because that's exactly what the Duress password is designed to do.

For Technical Support - Email Us Instead

Here's something important: the monitoring station only handles alarms and emergencies. They can't help with technical issues, programming questions, or changes to your account settings like zone names or contact lists.

For anything like that, shoot us an email at support@alarmgrid.com. We'll get back to you as soon as we're back in the office. The holidays sometimes create a bit of a backlog, so thanks in advance for your patience when we return!

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

If you're traveling for Thanksgiving, please be sure to arm your system before you hit the road. Also, double-check that you know your false alarm password before you leave. Nothing says "happy holidays!" quite like realizing you can't remember your false alarm password while you're three hours, or even three states away.

If you're cooking this year, kitchen smoke and steam are notorious for setting off smoke detectors. If yours is connected to your alarm system and it goes off, just silence it quickly. For all-in-one panels like the IQ Panel 4 or PROA7PLUS, you'll see a prompt on the screen asking for your disarm code. For older VISTA systems, just enter your User Code and press 1 (Off), exactly like you're disarming the system.

The monitoring station will call you when a smoke alarm goes off. If it's just your burning turkey setting off the detector (we've all been there), let them know and give them your false alarm password. They'll ask some questions to make sure everything's okay, and you can decide together whether the fire department really needs to stop by.

Important: Carbon Monoxide Alarms

If your carbon monoxide (CO) detector goes off, get everyone out of the house immediately. Carbon monoxide is completely invisible and odorless, and it's dangerous - especially for little ones, like kids and pets.

The monitoring station is required to send help on CO alarms no matter what. Even if you call them and say you're fine, they're still dispatching the fire department. It's for your safety. The fire department has special equipment to detect carbon monoxide and make sure your home is safe to re-enter.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you for choosing Alarm Grid. Whether you're hosting, traveling, staying home for a quiet day, or working through the holiday, we hope your Thanksgiving is exactly what you want it to be. May your turkey be moist, your family drama be minimal, and your smoke detectors stay silent!

This post is a quick intro to the new 2GIG GC Touch, plus the top initial questions and answers circulating among dealers and forums. Documentation is still scarce at launch, so this post collects the most commonly asked questions we’ve seen and summarizes the early answers.

Caveat: This information is based on initial reports and community/dealer chatter about the GC Touch and may contain errors. Consider the Q&A below to be “early info” rather than final specs, we’ll update this post as more official documentation becomes available.

2GIG GC Touch:

Quick overview

The 2GIG GC Touch (Verizon LTE version and AT&T version) is positioned as a budget-friendly successor to the GC2/GC2e series: a modern touchscreen panel that retains broad backward-compatibility with legacy sensors but trims some premium features found on 2GIG’s flagship 2GIG Edge (Verizon LTE and AT&T LTE) model.

Early reports indicate the GC Touch emphasizes compatibility and value. It supports legacy 345 MHz sensors, adds support for encrypted 345S/eSeries devices, and improves wireless zone capacity over the old GC2 family.

Below are the top 20 questions installers and end users are asking right now, grouped by topic, followed by the current answers being reported. Again this is early info and may change.

Upgrading & Compatibility

1. Can I replace my old 2GIG GC2 or GC2e with the GC Touch?
   ○ Yes. It is designed as the direct "budget-friendly" successor to the GC2e series.
2. Will my existing 2GIG sensors (legacy 345 MHz) work with the GC Touch?
   ○ Yes, it is fully backward compatible with legacy 2GIG 345 MHz sensors and Honeywell 5800 series sensors.
3. Can I use my old GC2 power supply with the new panel?
   ○ No. The GC Touch uses a 14VDC adapter. You must swap out the old 12VDC transformer to avoid damaging the new unit.
4. Does the GC Touch fit the same mounting holes/backplate as the GC2?
   ○ It covers a similar wall footprint, but the backplate is new and must be replaced.
5. Will my old TS1 secondary keypad work with the GC Touch?
   ○ No. The legacy TS1 keypad is not compatible. You will need to use the Alarm.com app or a newer compatible secondary touchscreen. We don't currently know if one will be available.
6. Does it work with 2GIG eSeries (Encrypted) sensors?
   ○ Yes, it supports both the older non-encrypted sensors and the newer encrypted “eSeries” / “345S” sensors.

Features vs. 2GIG Edge

7. What is the main difference between the GC Touch and the 2GIG Edge?
   ○ The Edge is the “flagship” with Facial Recognition and a glass-to-edge screen. The GC Touch is the value model with a plastic bezel and no facial recognition.
8. Does the GC Touch have Facial Recognition disarm?
   ○ No, that feature is exclusive to the 2GIG Edge.
9. Does the GC Touch have Bluetooth disarming?
   ○ Yes, you can pair a smartphone to disarm the system automatically when you arrive home.
10. Does it have a built-in glass break detector?
    ○ No, the Edge has a built-in glass break; the GC Touch does not.
11. Does the GC Touch support Z-Wave Long Range (LR)?
    ○ It features the Z-Wave 800-series chip, which supports Z-Wave long range. However, the panel software must also support it, and it's unknown at this time if it does. Regardless, even without the addition of Z-Wave long range, the Z-Wave 800-series chip offers a significant improvement in range and speed over the older 500-series chip found in the GC2e.

Installation & Troubleshooting

12. What is the default Installer Code for the GC Touch?
    ○ 1561 (standard 2GIG default).
13. How do I reboot (power cycle) the panel without opening it?
    ○ Usually via the menu: Toolbox > Advanced > Reboot.
14. Why does the screen look different than my old panel? (Dark Mode)
    ○ The GC Touch introduces a “Dark Mode” UI that matches the 2GIG Edge style — a major visual change from the bright GC2 interface.
15. How do I add the new “345S” sensors?
    ○ With no installation documentation available, the exact process for adding sensors is not available. We'll provide full documentation as soon as it becomes available.
16. Does it support 5G cellular?
    ○ No. It uses an LTE (4G) communicator (AT&T or Verizon), which is standard for security systems today.

General & Smart Home

17. Can I view my Alarm.com cameras on the panel screen?
    ○ Yes, like the Edge, the GC Touch supports live view of compatible Alarm.com doorbells and cameras.
18. Does it work with Apple HomeKit?
    ○ Not directly. It integrates with Alarm.com, which can be bridged to HomeKit via Siri Shortcuts — there is no native HomeKit support on the panel itself.
19. How many wireless zones does it support?
    ○ Up to 128 wireless zones, which is double the capacity of the older GC2 (which maxed at 60).
20. Is there a secondary keypad available for it?
    ○ At launch, users are typically directed to use the mobile app, but a dedicated wireless keypad (like the 2GIG-PAD1-345) can typically be used for basic arming/disarming.

The 2GIG GC Touch looks to be a sensible, value-focused upgrade for GC2/GC2e customers. It has a modern touchscreen, broader sensor compatibility, and a big jump in wireless zone capacity, while intentionally leaving some flagship features (like facial recognition) to the 2GIG Edge.

Keep in mind this post compiles early reports and community feedback, so details may change as official documentation is released. Installers should confirm power, backplate, and keypad compatibility before a takeover, and end users should contact their alarm dealer for provisioning or account setup. We’ll update this page as 2GIG publishes final specs and installation guides so check back for the latest, and download this initial FAQ for a quick reference.

Resideo Technologies has announced an automatic firmware update rollout for several AlarmNet LTE communicators used in security systems. These updates are designed to enhance cellular connectivity and ensure a more stable, reliable link between your system and the AlarmNet cellular network.

According to MyWebTech Technical Notification #136, Resideo will begin pushing firmware updates over the air within the next 30 days to select radios used in burglary and residential fire applications. These updates are part of an ongoing effort to maintain optimal performance and address prior cellular connectivity issues.

Affected Radios & Latest Firmware Versions

• Honeywell Home LTE-IV — Firmware 4.1.31.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-IA — Firmware 4.1.31.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-XV — Firmware 4.0.62.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-XA — Firmware 4.0.62.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-L3V — Firmware 4.0.54.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-L3A — Firmware 4.0.54.0
• Honeywell Home LTE-HSV — Firmware 2.14.16

Many of the affected communicators, though still active in the field, have been discontinued by Resideo and AlarmNet. Because they are no longer offered by Alarm Grid, discontinued products are not linked above.

These updates will occur automatically, and no action is required from end users in most cases. However, communicators with low backup battery voltage, or with a missing backup battery, may not successfully complete the update. In those instances, the communicator battery should be replaced so that the update can occur.

A small number of systems may briefly display a “radio trouble” condition when the communicator reboots after the update. This condition can typically be cleared by entering a valid user code + 1 (Off) twice on the system keypad.

Notes on Fire Radios

The same technical notice also reminds users about firmware updates for certain commercial fire communicators (HWF2V-COM, HWF2A-COM, LTE-CFV, LTE-CFA). However, Alarm Grid does not support commercial fire alarm systems, and these devices are not sold or supported by us. If you work with fire alarm communicators, contact your fire system provider or Resideo technical support for further assistance.

Summary

Resideo’s automatic update process ensures continued reliability for AlarmNet-connected communicators. As long as your communicator is in good working order and has adequate power and a good backup battery, it is likely that no action will be required on your part. With a possible exception of a disarm command to clear a communicator trouble display on some VISTA systems.

Alarm Grid will continue to keep you informed of any further changes that may affect system performance or connectivity.

We first told you about the new lineup of First Alert CX4 cameras in September. At that time, there wasn't much information available about the cameras and their specs. Now, Resideo has announced the release of the cameras and mounting accessories. So, let's take a closer look at them.

Each camera in the new CX4 lineup offers 8MP ultra-high-definition image quality. Intelligent AI-based event detection can distinguish people, vehicles, animals, and packages. The main differences between the various camera styles come down to design, mounting style, and placement options. Below is a quick reference table showing how each camera fits into your installation plan, along with the compatible accessories for that model.

First Alert CX4 Camera Product Matrix

Image	Product	Key Features & Accessories
	First Alert CX4B 8MP AI Bullet Camera Model: CX4BE08F28PW	Long-range coverage and visible deterrent design Ideal for driveways, parking lots, and exterior perimeters IP67 weather-rated housing 2.8mm fixed lens (104° horizontal FOV) PoE or 12VDC power options Built-in microphone for one-channel audio
	↳ CX4AJBFTB – Fixed Turret/Bullet Extended Junction Box	Provides space for cable connections; allows cleaner weather-sealed installations.
	↳ CX4AGBCP – Gangbox Converter Plate	Adapter plate for mounting to existing electrical boxes or retrofit surfaces.
	First Alert CX4T 8MP AI Turret Camera Model: CX4TE08F28PW	Ball-and-socket design for flexible aiming Built-in microphone for one-channel audio Ideal for indoor or outdoor areas Anti-glare design reduces IR reflection
	↳ CX4AWMFTJB – Wall Mount with Junction Box	Wall mount providing added depth and protection for turret camera wiring.
	↳ CX4AWMFTDB – Wall Mount Bracket	Used for angled installations or combined with other mounts.
	↳ CX4AJBFTB – Extended Junction Box	Shared accessory for turret or bullet cameras; conceals cabling for neat installs.
	↳ CX4AGBCP – Gangbox Converter Plate	Adapter plate for gangbox mounting.
	First Alert CX4D 8MP AI Dome Camera Model: CX4DE08F28PW	Discreet, low-profile design IK10 rated tamper-resistant dome housing 125° field of view for wide coverage Perfect for retail, lobbies, or offices Built-in microphone for one-channel audio
	↳ CX4AJBFD – Fixed Dome Extended Junction Box	Adds space for wiring and conduit; helps weather-seal cable entry.
	↳ CX4AWMFDJB – Wall Mount with Junction Box	Mounts dome camera securely on vertical surfaces; includes cable space.
	↳ CX4AWMFTDB – Fixed Turret/Dome Wall Mount Bracket	Universal bracket shared between turret and dome models.
	↳ CX4ACMFD – Fixed Dome Ceiling Flush Mount	Provides clean, recessed ceiling mounting option for a low-profile look.
	↳ CX4AGBCP – Gangbox Converter Plate	Adapter for dome camera installations using standard gangbox openings.

*All accessories are rated for operation from -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C) and are constructed of durable aluminum alloy or PC+ABS materials. Junction boxes are sold separately and recommended for clean, weather-resistant installations.

First Alert CX4 Product Feature Matrix

Each of the new First Alert CX4 Cameras offers the same 8MP ultra-HD clarity, AI-driven motion analytics, and Total Connect 2.0 integration, but each form-factor has distinct advantages:

• The CX4B Bullet Camera is best for exterior spaces where visibility and deterrence are of particular importance.
• The CX4T Turret Camera offers the best balance between installation flexibility and features, making it a great all-around option for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Meanwhile, the CX4D Dome Camera delivers a sleek, tamper-resistant design suited for interiors like offices, stores, and lobbies, and outdoors such as parking lots, driveways, and exterior entrances where both aesthetics and protection against vandalism are key.

We’re genuinely excited to see how these new CX4 cameras help our customers feel safer and more connected. Whether you’re adding your first camera or upgrading to a full Pro Series or VISTAH3 system, these new models make it easier than ever to protect what you care about most.

To unlock remote viewing, cloud storage, and full Total Connect 2.0 integration, you’ll need a professional monitoring plan. If you’re not already set up, you can explore our no-contract monitoring plans here. If you have questions, we'd be glad to help, email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM EST/EDT.