Home Security Blog

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S. This is a wired to wireless converter that communicates at the 319.5 MHz frequency. At this frequency, the IQ Hardwire 16-S is compatible with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, the original Qolsys IQ Panel and Interlogix Systems.

The main reason to use the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S is to use hardwired security sensors with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. This works by connecting any hardwired sensors directly to the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S. The converter will then send a 319.5 MHz signal to the IQ Panel 2 System on the behalf of the hardwired sensors. By doing this, each hardwired sensor will be able to use its own wireless zone on the system. As the name implies to 16 wired sensors can be connected with the IQ Hardwire 16-S. If a user doesn't need this many terminals, the IQ Hardwire 8-S provides identical function.

Another benefit of the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S is that it utilizes 128-bit AES encryption to prevent the module from being taken over by hackers and potential intruders. Any time that the Hardwire 16-S sends a command to the IQ Panel 2, the system will need to send an appropriate response in order for the command to go through. This advanced level of protection is great for keeping the security setup secure at all times.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S can also be used with other panels that communicate at the 319.5 MHz frequency. However, the encryption feature will only be active when the device is used with the IQ Panel 2. With other systems, the device will still work, but it will operate as an unencrypted 319.5 MHz sensor. Qolsys also offers a similar device that doesn't utilize encryption, the IQ Hardwire 8. However, this module only supports eight hardwired sensors.

The IQ Hardwire 8-S is perfect for users who want to upgrade to a brand-new IQ Panel 2 System while still keeping their older hardwired sensors. You can purchase one today on our website.

Hi DIYers! It's time for another video recap. We've had an unusual production schedule for videos lately. So this update will contain more videos than usual. This update covers the dates from July 13th thru July 19th. Let's take a look at what our awesome team has been working on.

General Overview of Honeywell VISTA Programming

Joe demonstrates the basics of programming for a Honeywell VISTA System. This is done using an alphanumeric keypad, like the 6160RF. To access programming, a user will need to provide the system's Installer Code or use the backdoor method. The sections of programming are split up into different fields. Each programming field uses its own unique set of key commands. Users should check out the VISTA Programming Guide for more information on the different programming fields. Once finished, use [*99] to exit programming.

Adding Email Notifications in Total Connect 2 0

Jorge goes over the process for receiving email notifications from Total Connect 2.0. When a system event occurs on their Honeywell Alarm System, a user can receive an email notification to let them know what has taken place. In the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App, there is a profile section where a user can manage their notification settings. A user will need to confirm their email address before they can receive email notifications. It is also possible to receive text notifications from Total Connect 2.0.

Adding a 5834 4 to a LYNXTouch

Dylan explains how to program a Honeywell 5834-4 Key Fob with a Honeywell LYNX Touch System. This process is completed through key fob programming on the system. The 5834-4 has four buttons, and up to eight functions can be programmed by using dual-button presses. The number of available key fob zones varies depending upon the type of LYNX Touch Panel that is being used. A key fob is learned in by putting the system in its learn mode and then pressing and holding one of the key fob buttons. Each input uses a separate Loop Number from the others.

Connecting a Lyric Alarm to the Local WiFi

Jorge covers the process for connecting the Honeywell Lyric Controller to a local WIFI network. The Lyric Controller comes with a built-in WIFI card for connecting to a 2.4 GHz WIFI network. WIFI, along with cellular service, is the main way that a Lyric System will receive monitoring service. WIFI service will also allow the Lyric Controller to connect with Total Connect 2.0. In order to connect the system to a WIFI network, a user must know both the system's Master Code and the WIFI network password.

Using a 2GIG Go!Control w/o Monitoring

Dylan talks about using a 2GIG GC2 System without monitoring service. By doing this, the system will only serve as a local sounder. It will have no way of sending alerts to a central monitoring station or text and email notifications to the end user. In other words, if the user is off-site, a burglary or fire alarm will probably go unnoticed, and the authorities won't be contacted. It will also be impossible to connect the system with Alarm.com for remote operation. However, for users who are almost always on-site, forgoing monitoring service can be a viable option.

Connecting an iPhone to the Lyric Alarm System

Joe explains how a user can connect their iPhone to their Honeywell Lyric Controller. This will allow a user to operate their Lyric Controller System using their iPhone. The two ways to do this are through the Total Connect 2.0 Service and the My Home Controller App. In order to use Total Connect 2.0, alarm monitoring service is required, and the Lyric will need to be using an active internet or cellular connection. However, the My Home Controller App does not require any monitoring service.

What Does Interactive Alarm Monitoring Mean?

Jorge talks about interactive alarm monitoring and the purpose it serves. Simply put, interactive services allow users to control their alarm systems remotely. Some of the most popular interactive services include Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com. Total Connect is for Honeywell Systems only, while Alarm.com is used with many manufacturers. In order to use an interactive service, the alarm system will need to be using a cellular or IP connection. The user will also need to have an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to one of these services.

Arming/Disarming Lyric Alarm System from Phone, Tablet, or iPad

Jorge explains how to arm and disarm a Honeywell Lyric Controller from a smartphone or tablet. The two ways to do this are through Total Connect 2.0 and through the My Home Controller App. Total Connect 2.0 requires active monitoring service for the system. But the My Home Controller App can be used without alarm monitoring. However, the Lyric System will need to be connected with a WIFI network to be operated through My Home Controller.

Lyric Alarm System Slideshow

Jorge shows users how to set up the slideshow feature on a Honeywell Lyric Controller. This will have the system act as a sort of digital picture frame when left idle for a certain period of time. The images are uploaded to the panel through a USB drive that is inserted into the bottom of the system. A user can pick and choose which images to use. They can also decide how long each image will be displayed until switching to the next one.

Turning On the Chime on a Lyric Alarm System

Joe demonstrates how to turn on the chime for a Honeywell Lyric Controller. There are two types of chime on the Lyric System. These are the tone chime and the voice chime. If voice chime is used, the panel will read out the zone descriptors when the sensor is triggered. The chime function can be configured for each individual zone on the system. There is also a menu option for controlling the chime settings for the system as a whole.

Managing Total Connect 2 0 User Profiles from a Tablet

Jorge goes through the process of adding, editing and deleting user profiles on Total Connect 2.0 by using a tablet. This is done through the Settings Menu of Total Connect 2.0. The layout for iOS and Android Total Connect 2.0 Apps is slightly different, but the process is mostly the same. The information from Total Connect 2.0 will be sent to the panel so that the logins can be used. The type of access for each user can also be set from Total Connect.

Today, July 20th, marks the 6th anniversary of Alarm Grid. For six years, our growing team has provided top-quality monitoring services for customers and proven that the DIY model is ideal for home security. It's great to know that many people feel safer at home thanks to Alarm Grid.

To celebrate, our office will closing early tonight. We will be unavailable for phone or chat support starting at 4PM EST. Any customer who needs support during this time should send an email to support@alarmgrid.com, and our team will respond as quickly as possible. We will resume our normal business hours of 9AM to 8PM EST starting on Monday.

The entire Alarm Grid team would like to thank all of our customers for their support throughout the years. We feel honored to be a part of your family, and we take tremendous pride in keeping your homes and businesses safe. From all of us, we look forward to providing you and those close to you with the very best alarm monitoring services for many, many years into the future.

Qolsys recently informed us that they plan to release the new PowerG and legacy daughtercards for the IQ Panel 2 in the coming weeks. New IQ Panel 2 Systems will be available with different combinations of these cards so that users can choose the proper type for their existing sensors.

Each daughtercard will function as a wireless receiver for the system. The types of daughtercard that are used will determine which types of wireless security sensors can be used with the system. There will be four main daughtercards available for the system. These include three legacy daughtercards (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz and 433 MHz) and a PowerG daughtercard (915 MHz).

We are particularly excited about the PowerG Sensors. These sensors boast an incredible range of up to 2,000 feet away in open air when used with the IQ Panel 2 Plus. They also offer 128-bit AES encryption to remain protected against hacking attempts. Overall, these are some of the most powerful and advanced security sensors we have ever seen, and we are sure that users will be extremely satisfied with their performance.

On the IQ Panel 2 board, there are four daughtercard ports. One port should be used with either a PowerG daughtercard or an image sensor module, while the other port should be used with one of the legacy daughtercards. The PowerG and Alarm.com Image Sensor modules operate on similar 900MHz frequencies. That means you will have to choose one or the other. Likewise, a user should not use more than one legacy daughtercard with the system at any given time, as two legacy daughtercards may cause interference with each other in the 300-400 MHz range.

When deciding which daughtercard is needed, users should verify the type of any existing wireless equipment and consider future expansion. The wireless frequency and sensor matrix is as follows:

• 319.5 MHz: Legacy Interlogix/GE and all Qolsys Sensors (319 and S-Line!)
• 345 MHz: Legacy Honeywell (5800 series) and 2GIG Sensors
• 433 MHz: Legacy DSC Sensors
• 915 MHz: PowerG Sensors

Since only one legacy daughtercard can be used, it will not be possible to use multiple types of legacy sensors with the system (except for Honeywell and 2GIG since they operate on the same 345MHz frequency and use the same daughtercard). For example, a user would not be able to simultaneously use older Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors and Interlogix Sensors at the same time. However, a wireless converter will likely be able to overcome this issue.

Qolsys has informed us that the daughtercards will not be available for individual purchase. Instead, they can be obtained by purchasing a new IQ Panel 2 System. According to Qolsys, the following versions of the system will be available:

• IQ Panel 2 with PowerG and Legacy 319.5
• IQ Panel 2 with PowerG and Legacy 345
• IQ Panel 2 with PowerG and Legacy 433

Additionally, each of these options will be split into two further options for AT&T and Verizon LTE cellular communicators. These will both operate with Alarm.com and open up a world of possibilities with the dexterity of the Alarm.com ecosystem. According to Qolsys, these systems will be available in September 2018. We'll make sure to keep you updated with any further news on these exciting new products!

Honeywell has informed us that there is currently a problem with their Total Connect 2.0 service. Until the issue is properly resolved by Honeywell, users may experience longer than expected delays or intermittent failures in processing Total Connect 2.0 security and automation commands.

Our team may also experience difficulties pushing information down to Honeywell panels until the error is corrected. Fortunately, alarm services are not affected by this issue. Any alarm event that occurs on a system will still be received by AlarmNet360 and properly routed to a central station and/or the end user. But users should be aware that commands sent through Total Connect 2.0 to their panel may not work properly during this time. This includes any arming/disarming commands and home automation commands.

Honeywell says that they are currently working on this issue, and it should hopefully be resolved shortly. We will update this post when we have more information available.

Update: Honeywell has resolved this issue, and Total Connect should now be working properly.

Hi DIYers! We wanted to let you know that we have reduced the prices for many of our Qolsys products. At Alarm Grid, we're huge fans of Qolsys, and we recognize their hardware as being some of the most versatile and reliable equipment in the industry. The price changes are outlined below:

When one thinks of upgrading their security system, they would typically think of adding a new sensor to their setup. After all, it's sensors that a system uses to detect any important system events, such as burglary or fire. But often upgrading a communicator is even more important.

Simply put, the communicator is what an alarm system uses to send outbound signals to the user and/or a central monitoring station. If the communicator fails, then the alarm system is nothing more than a local sounder. It will have no way of alerting off-site users or requesting emergency dispatch from a central monitoring station. Therefore, it's extremely important that the communication path used by an alarm system is dependable, reliable and gives the user peace of mind. For most users, an alarm system that uses cellular communication is the ideal solution.

The Honeywell Lyric Controller is the flagship wireless security system from Honeywell. This system provides support for up to 128 wireless zones, and it can even work with the encrypted Honeywell SiX Series Sensors. The touchscreen controller is extremely easy to use, and the build-quality lives up to the Honeywell name. Additionally, the system comes with a Z-Wave controller built-in for controlling Z-Wave home automation devices. Overall, the Lyric is one of the top security systems available on the market today.

However, there is one issue with a fresh, brand-new, out-of-the-box Lyric. This problem is that the system does not have an integrated cellular communicator. Although there are Lyric Controller System Kits that come with a cellular communicator, the base version of the system does not have such a module. If no cellular module is added, the system will be forced to rely on a WIFI connection. This might not seem so bad at first. WIFI is extremely fast, and most people think of modern internet services as being extremely reliable. For that reason, many users make the decision to go with a WIFI-only setup for their Honeywell Lyric Controller.

But going with a WIFI-only communication path can prove to be a major mistake. WIFI signals regularly go down, often for seemingly no reason. Additionally, a power outage of any kind will cause the WIFI service to go down, and a panel that uses a WIFI-only connectivity will be unable to send any outbound signals. This means that the property will be unprotected. But with a cellular communicator, this is occurrence is nearly impossible. Modern cellular communication is extremely reliable. It is not affected by power outages, and it offers users great peace of mind.

For those reasons, adding a cellular communicator to a Lyric Controller is extremely important. Honeywell offers various cellular communicators for the Lyric System. Adding one of these communicators can be the single most important upgrade for a Lyric Controller, due to the fantastic reliability and consistency that it will provide for the system. And for users looking for a new communicator, we recommend choosing the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A.

The LYRICLTE-A is currently the only communicator for the Lyric Controller that can connect with an LTE cellular network. Specifically, the LYRICLTE-A connects with the LTE network for AT&T. LTE networks represent the latest and most advanced cellular technology available, and they provide lightning-fast speeds and superb reliability. Plus, cellular service providers have promised that they will continue to support for their LTE networks for many years, even decades into the future. And with trusted service from AT&T, the LYRICLTE-A will ensure that the Lyric Controller is always connected and always protecting your property. It should be mentioned that Verizon also plans to release an LTE communicator for the Lyric sometime in the near future. But for now, the LYRICLTE-A and AT&T is nearly always the best option for Lyric users.

With that in mind, we believe that the LYRICLTE-A is the single most important upgrade a user can make for their Honeywell Lyric Controller System. The level of reliability and consistency of cellular communication cannot be compared with by any other communication path. And with connectivity to an LTE network, users can be sure that their Lyric System will communicate as it should far into the distant future.

An alarm system is only good if it can alert others in an emergency situation. A system that cannot communicate properly is a sitting duck. Even if a system has every sensor imaginable, it won't matter if the system cannot send a signal to the end user or a central monitoring station when it counts. With the LYRICLTE-A and cellular communication, a Lyric System will be able to communicate successfully every time. This makes the LYRICLTE-A the single most important upgrade for the Honeywell Lyric Controller. Don't leave your Lyric System unprotected. Upgrade your Lyric with the very best in cellular communication with the AT&T LYRICLTE-A.

Reliability is the single most important factor for a smoke detector. It is critical that these devices quickly and accurately respond whenever there is a fire in the building. One of the best ways to ensure this reliability is with a smoke detector that utilizes photoelectric technology.

Photoelectric smoke detectors are some of the most popular life-safety devices available today. The defining feature of a photoelectric sensor is its internal light source and sensing chamber. By default, light will never fall on the internal photo sensor. The presence of smoke or other airborne particles will cause the light to refract, which will have it strike the sensor and produce an alarm. This means that the device will not activate suddenly, as long as the sensing chamber stays clear.

But when smoke enters the sensing chamber, the light inside the sensor will be refracted. This will cause the internal light to strike the photoelectric sensor. When this happens, the smoke detector will send an alert to the system to let it know that there is smoke (and therefore a fire) in the building. The alarm system will then perform the programmed response by alerting others to the fire.

Overall, this method is very effective for detecting fires. But with this process, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that a smoke works properly. It is possible that other airborne materials besides smoke can also enter the inside of the smoke detector, adjust the light source and cause an alarm. Airborne particles can also potentially prevent the detector from allowing smoke to refract the internal light onto the sensor. If this happens the smoke detector will not function as it should.

To prevent this from happening, users should make sure to place their photoelectric smoke detectors in appropriate areas. They should not be facing any vents or air ducts. Photoelectric smoke detectors should also not be placed in garages, bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms. This is because these rooms feature large amounts of humidity and dust that may prevent the sensor from detecting smoke.

Instead, we recommend placing photoelectric smoke detectors in large open areas where their function will not become disrupted. Some ideal locations include large central living rooms, near staircases, in hallways and outside of sleeping areas. Since smoke rises, all photoelectric smoke detectors should be installed high up on the wall or on the ceiling. By following these guidelines, a photoelectric smoke detector is more likely to work properly. For more information on the proper placement of smoke detectors, please review this helpful guide. Users should also make sure to test their photoelectric smoke detector on a regular basis and to replace the batteries when low.

Some of the most popular photoelectric smoke detectors we offer include the Honeywell 5808W3, the Honeywell SiXSMOKE and the 2GIG SMKT3-345. These are all extremely versatile smokes that also double as heat detectors. Of course, users must make sure that they smoke they choose is compatible with their alarm system. Assuming that it is a wireless smoke, it must communicate at a frequency that is accepted by their system. We hope that you will check out our selection of photoelectric smoke detectors so that you can protect your home or business.

Hi DIYers! We're back with another recent video recap. This recap showcases videos from our techs Joe and Dylan as they show users how they can get the most out of their security system setups. We've got a great set of helpful videos this time around. Let's go and check them out.

Central Station Alarm Monitoring and How It Works

Dylan talks about the intricacies of central station monitoring and how it functions. The main purpose of central station alarm monitoring is to receive automatic dispatch in the event of an alarm. When an alarm occurs, a signal will be sent from the system to a central monitoring station to alert an operator of the event. The station operator can then alert the appropriate authorities on the behalf of the user. To prevent false alarms, a user can instruct the central station to try and contact them first before requesting emergency dispatch.

What Is Cellular Alarm Monitoring

Joe discusses the benefits of using cellular service with an alarm system. Cellular monitoring is seen as the most reliable communication path available. In order to receive cellular monitoring, the user will need a system with a cellular communicator and an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity. The cellular communicator that is used must be compatible with the security system. Some security systems, like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, come with a cellular module that is already included for this purpose. Others, like the Honeywell Lyric Controller need to have one added separately.

Wholesale Home Alarm Monitoring w: Alarm Grid

Dylan explains what wholesale alarm monitoring is and how Alarm Grid supports this type of monitoring. Wholesale alarm monitoring is where a single customer receives service for multiple locations. The customer will need a separate monitoring plan for each location. However, they will still be able to manage the systems for all of their locations with just one Total Connect or Alarm.com account. This possibility is useful for people who own multiple residences, as well as those running a business with multiple locations.

Add a Honeywell GSMX4G to a VISTA Security System

Dylan shows users how to add a Honeywell GSMX4G Cellular Communicator to a VISTA Security System. The GSMX4G is a 4G communicator that connects with the AT&T cellular network. The device receives power directly from the panel using a four-wire connection with the ECP bus. These terminals are four thru seven. The communicator receives this connection via a plug-in port. By feeding the wire through the slot, there will be no exposed wires. The communicator will need to be activated by the user's alarm monitoring company before it will work.

Adding a wired siren to a 2GIG GC3

Joe goes over the process for adding a hardwired siren to a 2GIG GC3 System. To do this, a user will need a power supply, a power relay and a backup battery. The panel will connect with the power relay through its bell terminals, and the negative (black) wire will also parallel splice to the power supply. The relay will connect with the panel, the siren and the power supply. The siren will connect with the relay and the power supply. The backup battery will connect with the power supply exclusively. A plug-in transformer connects with the power supply. A full diagram can be seen here.

Voice Commands on the Lyric Security System

Joe talks about the voice control feature on the Honeywell Lyric Controller. This feature is often overlooked on the system, but it can be very useful when used effectively. Voice commands can be used to control smart scenes and to open the camera menu for older model Honeywell IP Cameras. Voice command options can be set from within the Master Tools menu. It is recommended that a user completes the voice training on the system so that the Lyric Controller can better understand the user's voice.

Hey DIYers! As you know, we mentioned in a post yesterday that the MR7 firmware update for the Honeywell Lyric Controller is now available. The big news yesterday was that this update would restore Apple HomeKit functionality for Lyric Systems running an IP-only communication path.

However, the other major component of this update it is that it will allow for some exciting new products to be used with the Lyric.These products include various Z-Wave home automation devices and an upcoming Honeywell SiX Series Sensor. The following products will become compatible following the update:

• Honeywell's new T6 Pro Z-Wave Programmable Thermostat (TH6320ZW2003) - Not to be confused with the T6 Pro WIFI Thermostat models (TH6320U2008, TH6320U2000, or TH6320U2001)
• The upcoming Honeywell SiXCOMBO, which features dual smoke and carbon monoxide detection, as well as a one-go-all-go function
• The August Smart Lock Pro with Z-Wave - The first generation August lock with Bluetooth only is not compatible
• Eaton & Cooper Z-Wave Light Switches and Outlets

Honeywell also says that this update will improve general system performance and overall end-user experience.The system can be updated from the Installer menu. This is done through Security > Tools > Installer Code (default 4112) > Update Firmware. The update can also be pushed down by the user's alarm monitoring company.

If you are having any trouble pushing the update, please contact us at 888-818-7728 from 9AM to 8PM M-F or email support@alarmgrid.com.