2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit Posts

Posted

Update 12/30/21: The 2GIG GC3e has been discontinued and is no longer available. The 2GIG Edge w/ AT&T LTE or the 2GIG Edge w/ Verizon LTE have replaced it.

In an effort to clear out existing stock, the 2GIG GC3e Alarm Panel is now available at the bargain price of $189.99. This is an excellent chance to get a modern and reliable alarm panel for your home or business at a super low price. Act quickly, because supplies will run out very soon!

We announced earlier this month that the 2GIG GC3e was discontinued. However, due to existing stock, the GC3e Panel is effectively back from the dead for one final run. Once the limited stock runs out, the 2GIG GC3e will be discontinued forever. Room needs to be made for newer panels, so we're offering the 2GIG GC3e for the low price of $189.99. This is a rare opportunity to get a great alarm panel to build around. It can certainly fulfill all of your security and smart home automation needs once you get it set up and running!

The GC3e is fantastic for alarm monitoring. Just add either a 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator or a 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator, and you will be able to connect the GC3e with the Alarm.com Servers for monitoring service. Since the 2GIG GC3e already has an internal WIFI card, adding the cellular communicator will make it into a dual-path system that will stay monitored even if one path goes down or becomes unavailable. Alarm.com requires cellular connectivity, so you will need a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication, such as an Alarm Grid Gold Plan (Self or Full).

Although the 2GIG GC3e doesn't support more advanced features like Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming, the GC3e does support the robust lineup of 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. You can also supplement those encrypted sensors with non-encrypted sensors from the 2GIG 345 MHz Series and the Honeywell 5800 Series for good measure. The panel also has an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller so that you can start building a smart home network to make your life more convenient.

Overall, the 2GIG GC3e is an outstanding choice if you want more of a simple, no-frills panel that is still unmistakably modern and offers all the remote access and function through Alarm.com. If you do want something more advanced, than the 2GIG GC3e's effective replacement, the 2GIG Edge is available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE variants. Both the GC3e and the Edge connect with the same Alarm.com platform, and both offer the same sensor compatibility. The main benefit to going with the Edge is that you get access to some more advanced features, such as the aforementioned Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming. If you don't mind missing out on those features, then the 2GIG GC3e is basically just as good. Both systems feature very similar menus and user interfaces (UIs), so if you know one, then you pretty much already know the other!

In addition, we are also offering special pricing on 2GIG GC3e System Kits. Each kit includes a cellular communicator for getting the system monitored a Honeywell LT-Cable for providing power, one (1) 2GIG PIR1e-345 Motion Sensor, and either three (3) or ten (10) VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contact Sensors. Just decide whether you want AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE, and also whether you want three (3) door and window sensors or ten (10) door and window sensors. Then find the corresponding kit below. Hurry, before time runs out!

Remember, once supplies of the 2GIG GC3e run out, then the system is gone forever. If you have any questions about the GC3e, or any of the other security systems on our website, or if you want to speak with a security system expert who can help you build the perfect setup for your home or business, then please do not hesitate to send an email to our dedicated team at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here to check your emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Whether you go with the 2GIG GC3e, its replacement, the 2GIG Edge, or a different system entirely, we will be there to help you every step of the way. Thank you for reading the Alarm Grid Blog, and we will be back with more news and promotions real soon!

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted

A new alarm panel hitting the market often means an old one is discontinued. That is the case here today, as the 2GIG GC3e has been formally discontinued by Nortek Control. The GC3e has been replaced by the 2GIG Edge, which is available in both an AT&T variant and a Verizon variant.

As we look back on the 2GIG GC3e, we gotta admit that the panel was in an unfavorable position from the start. The system was a direct replacement to the 2GIG GC3, as it retained largely the same user interface, and its design only received a minor refresh. The big new addition with the GC3e was its ability to support 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. Along with the 2GIG GC2e, this marked the first time that 2GIG Alarm Panels could support encrypted sensors.

Unfortunately, 2GIG was late to the party, as other security systems like the Honeywell Lyric and Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus already had encrypted sensor support, not to mention a wide selection of sensors to choose from. Coupled with the fact that Qolsys continued to release new features for the IQ2+, and Resideo (formerly Honeywell) had the PROA7PLUS on the way, it quickly became clear that 2GIG would need to do better in order to keep up.

Thus began development on the 2GIG Edge. We first learned about the system in October of last year. With a bold new website and heavy promotion, hype around the Edge grew quickly. But this also brought questions in the back of our minds - what would happen to the GC2e and the GC3e? These panels had been on the market for less than two (2) years. Would 2GIG really abandon them so quickly? Well, today we have the verdict. The 2GIG GC2e stays, and the 2GIG GC3e heads off to the old alarm system graveyard in the sky.

First released in late July 2019, the 2GIG GC3e became known for its strong build quality and stark similarities to its GC3 predecessor. But it had a hard time competing with fellow Alarm.com Security System, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Buyers continued to flock to the IQ2+, which offered Automatic Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition. Those features could not be easily added to the GC3e, so 2GIG decided to cut their losses and add those features into a new alarm panel, the 2GIG Edge. 2GIG even one-upped Qolsys by making it so that the Edge's Facial Recognition feature can be used for disarming the system!

With the Edge firmly in place as 2GIG's new flagship panel, and the 2GIG GC2e set as their "budget-friendly" option, some wondered if the 2GIG GC3e might be kept in production as a sort of "middle-of-the-road" offering. But nope, apparently, three panels is too many at 2GIG, and it's the GC3e biting the dust. And now, less than two years after hitting the market, and barely more than two years removed from its unveiling at ISC West 2019, we are saying goodbye to the 2GIG GC3e. It wasn't a long ride, but it was a good one.

If you have an existing 2GIG GC3e, then don't worry! The system will continue to be supported for alarm monitoring and service with the Alarm.com platform. Given the system's great build quality, it's fair to expect that existing GC3e Panels already out in the field will likely stay in service for quite some time, probably for the duration of LTE cellular networks. And speaking of LTE communication, Alarm Grid is continuing to offer LTE communicators for the 2GIG GC3 and 2GIG GC3e. These are the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 (AT&T LTE) and the 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 (Verizon LTE). If you need to get your GC3 updated, or your GC3e monitored, then either one of these modules is an excellent option. They're super easy to install, and they provide ultra-reliable cellular connectivity for the peace of mind that you deserve.

Meanwhile, the 2GIG GC2e will remain in production as the company's budget panel. However, we don't usually recommend that system for alarm monitoring, as it has no internet connectivity option to serve as an additional communication path, and it is relatively bare-bones in terms of features. But it is still an available option, and many users find that the GC2e is a strong offering as a replacement for the 2GIG GC2 or as a non-monitored system serving as a local noisemaker.

But for our top 2GIG pick, it should come as no surprise that we are recommending the new 2GIG Edge Alarm System. With its great features like 7-inch touchscreen controller, Facial Recognition, optional Automatic Bluetooth Disarming, Smart Area Partitioning support, 700-Series Z-Wave Plus V2 Smart Home Automation, and being dual-path ready right out of the box, we are proud to say that this system is available now on the Alarm Grid website. While we might miss the 2GIG GC3e, the 2GIG Edge certainly fills the void. Time will tell how the Edge fares against other competing systems like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS.

What do you think of the 2GIG GC3e? Will you miss the system? Are you surprised to see 2GIG discontinue the system after less than two years? Did you ever get to try the system out for yourself? Share your thoughts and experiences in a comment down below. We would love to hear what you have to say. And remember to stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more security system content coming soon. We promise, we don't discontinue systems every day, but when we do, we always make sure to say a proper goodbye. Farewell 2GIG GC3e!

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Alarm Grid is back with another video recap! This time, we have six (6) new videos to share. We spent a lot of time this week focusing on the 2GIG GC3e, but we also covered some other security equipment as well. We hope you enjoy this latest batch of videos. Let's check them out!

Alarm grid inside security stickers

Properly Opening Up a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to open up the 2GIG GC3e Security Panel. Before opening the system, you must loosen the set screw at the bottom. If the panel is wall-mounted, you can press the panel against the wall and lift upward. Otherwise, lay the panel face-down, and pop off the back plate using your finger or a screwdriver. Opening up the GC3e Panel is often done to access the system's terminal block and backup battery.


Powering On the 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to power on the 2GIG GC3e Alarm System. The system uses a 14VDC, 1.7A transformer for primary power. If primary power is lost, then a backup battery will keep the system running. When powering on the 2GIG GC3e, we recommend connecting the backup battery first, followed by the transformer. Alarm wiring is not included with the 2GIG GC3e, so you must supply your own. We recommend using a Honeywell LT-Cable for this purpose.


Deleting a Defective Z-Wave Device from the GC3 or GC3e

I show you how to delete a defective Z-Wave device from a 2GIG GC3 or 2GIG GC3e. Some reasons why a Z-Wave device might be displayed as failed include the device being powered down or out of wireless range. Deleting a defective Z-Wave device is usually a good option if the device is lost or destroyed so that a traditional exclusion process cannot be performed. Any failed Z-Wave device will have an error icon next to it in the Smart Home Devices Menu.


Setting Up a Cellular Communicator for a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add a cellular communicator to a 2GIG GC3e Security System. Doing this will allow you to activate the 2GIG GC3e System for monitoring service. And if the monitoring plan includes access to Alarm.com, then you will also be able to control the system remotely through that platform. The 2GIG GC3e has a side slot for you to easily install a cellular radio. Remember to power down the system completely before installing the cellular communicator.


Powering the TG-1 Express Using the On-Board Terminals

I show you how you can power the Telguard TG-1 Express using its on-board power terminals. The Telguard TG-1 Express is used to take over the phone dialer for a panel so that it can communicate across a cellular network. Normally, the TG-1 uses a single RJ31X connection for power and communication with the panel. But if the existing power wires from the RJ31X cable are cut, then you can instead make the auxiliary power connections at the TG-1 on-board terminals.


Properly Closing the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

I show you how to properly close the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. To properly close the system, you want to align the top tabs first. Then you should lock the bottom two (2) tabs into place. Lastly, make sure the top four (4) tabs remain closed, and click them into place if they are not. The panel will make a strange noise every half-hour if it is not closed properly. The main reason to open the IQ2 is to replace its backup battery every few years.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Alarm Grid has a short but sweet video recap for you! Last week's recap was skipped to spread the cheer about our headquarters reopening, but we're here now! Unfortunately, we only have three (3) videos to share. Also, our usual team wasn't quite ready yet, so I had to make more appearances.

2gig gc3e wireless encrypted alarm panelThis week's videos are centered around the 2GIG GC3e Security System. This is a wireless all-in-one panel with support for encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors, as well as non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors. The system has a beautiful 7-inch touchscreen, built-in WIFI, partitioning support, and an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller. We hope these videos help you feel more comfortable in setting up your own 2GIG GC3e System for your home or business!

Pairing a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to pair a Z-Wave device with the 2GIG GC3e. The GC3e has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, which allows you to pair Z-Wave Plus and classic Z-Wave devices with the system. Common Z-Wave devices include lights, door locks, thermostats, and more. Programmed Z-Wave devices can be controlled from the panel and remotely from Alarm.com if the system is monitored. Most Z-Wave devices are excluded, or cleared, from the network before being added.


Programming a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add a key fob to a 2GIG GC3e. A key fob is a small handheld device that you can use to control your security system from a distance. Most key fobs will allow you to conveniently arm and disarm your system and operate programmed relay-triggered devices. Many key fobs also have the ability to set off panic alarms in distress situations. The 2GIG GC3e supports various 345 MHz wireless key fobs.


Adding or Changing User Codes on a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add, change, and delete user codes on a 2GIG GC3e. A user code is a sequence of numbers that you enter into a system to verify that you are an authorized user. The 2GIG GC3e supports up to 100 user codes. It is advised that each regular user has their own code. Each new code on the GC3e must be enabled for the use with system after it has been added.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Alarm Grid has been releasing some useful new FAQs and guides on using and setting up the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Security Systems. We wanted to let you know about this content so that you can start getting the most out of these panels. Both can make a great addition to a home or business!

2gig gc3e wireless encrypted alarm panel

2gig gc2e wireless encrypted alarm panel

Both the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e support the Alarm.com interactive service platform. By activating the system on a compatible monitoring plan, you will be able to control your 2GIG Panel remotely through the Alarm.com website and mobile app. This is great for operating your system while you are on the go! You will need a compatible LTE cellular communicator for the system to activate it for monitoring service!

Another exciting feature is that both systems offer built-in Z-Wave Plus functionality, which allows you to build a robust and powerful smart automation network for automatic operation and control for various devices used around your home or business. You can also integrate the exclusive lineup of encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors with these systems for enhanced wireless security and protection.

The 2GIG GC3e is a bit more robust than the GC2e, as the GC3e offers additional features like built-in WIFI, Smart Area Partitioning, and a larger touchscreen. You also have the ability to set up more wireless zones on the GC3e, which can come in handy for a larger home or business. But really, both systems can adapt well to nearly any situation.

Here we have some recent FAQs we have written for the 2GIG GC2e:

And here are some on the 2GIG GC3e:

If you want to learn more about the 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e, or if you have questions about alarm monitoring in general, please email us at support@alrmgrid.com. Our team would love to help you out so that you can make an informed buying decision. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Just a month after their last update was released, Alarm.com is back again, this time with mobile app version 4.13 for both Android and iOS. The new version is expected to be made available for free download in the coming days from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.


Alarm.com Mobile App Version 4.13 includes two new features. The first is Trouble Condition Help. This provides end users with assistance in addressing system trouble conditions, such as a low battery or a loss of RF supervision. This new feature has also been made available for use in the Alarm.com website.

The other feature is called System Search, and it allows end users with ten (10) or more Alarm.com Security Systems on a single account to search for specific system names from a system selector found on the side menu of the app. This will likely prove to be very useful and convenient for those using many systems with the Alarm.com platform.

Additionally, 4.13 should also include general stability fixes and performance improvements. It is advised that all Alarm.com users update the app as soon a possible once it is made available. Android users will be able to download Version 4.13 for free from the Google Play Store, while iOS users will find their free download in the Apple App Store.

Alarm Grid customers with questions about the update should email us at support@alarmgri.com. That email is also a great way to contact us if you are looking to start monitoring service for use with Alarm.com. Keep in mind that our business hours for checking email run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Most of these best security systems lists are frustrating to navigate. Many of them include companies and their respective rating. ADT, Brinks, Vivint, or others will make the cut. We’re sad to never be included in these lists. But that reflects the state of the industry. Many people don’t know that other alarm monitoring companies exist. Still others only include the new DIY systems that are on the market like Simplisafe, Ring, Nest, or Scout. Consumer Reports, for example, only reviews Nest, Ring, Abode, Frontpoint, Simplisafe, and Samsung’s Smarthings integrated GC3 that they produced for ADT. This list is, in no way, a complete list of products. Moreover, it completely ignores legacy and current systems. And, while we like “new,” being in the industry, we are proud to say that the so-called “professional” systems that are out there are better than these systems for a few simple reasons.

Our list includes exclusively professional equipment. It is the same equipment that ADT or other installation companies might sell you. We’ve tested a lot of these DIY systems. They work well to varying degrees. But we have found that nothing surpasses the quality or features of a professional system. What’s more, we provide the help that you need to turn these professionally installed systems into the DIY systems that you may be looking for.

Yup! You heard that right. You don’t need a professional to install a professional home security system.

They are simple enough to install and operate that you can do it yourself. Additionally, you can have them monitored by anyone. We think that this feature is the feature that sets them apart from any of the new “DIY” systems. Simplisafe systems must be monitored by Simplisafe. Ring systems must be monitored by Amazon. Nest systems must be monitored by Google’s chosen provider: Monitronics (now Brinks).

But a professional system can be monitored by any alarm company. We certainly do monitor them. But if you’re interested in having a local installer at your beck and call, you can have Larry the alarm installer from down the road monitor it as well.

In all, these systems are not easy to rank. Each one comes with its own set of features and benefits. So we have organized the following list based on your own possible set of needs.

So without further ado, here are the 3 best alarm systems of 2020.

Best Interactive Service of 2020

Alarm.com

Interactive services are the apps that allow you to control your alarm system from your phone or computer. There are dozens of such services. Some companies, such as the ones we mentioned above have their own proprietary service. But then, there are a few universal services. These are sold by Interlogix, DSC, Alarmnet (Honeywell), Securenet and others. Our favorite of these interactive services is alarm.com. It is a great service that works with Qolsys products, DSC products, Interlogix products, 2GIG products, and more. Unfortunately, it does not work with most Honeywell products.

It provides a wide array of controls, including the ability to use SIRI to command your system and schedule Z-Wave scenes. The drawback is that Alarm.com requires users to sign up for cellular monitoring. This is the best, most robust kind of monitoring. But some users don’t want that level of connectivity. Some end users are satisfied with just IP monitoring. In the 90s, particularly, phone line monitoring was the norm. Modern monitoring has found other, better, more secure options. No one can cut the line of a cellular device, for example. IP monitoring suffers from many of the same problems as phone line monitoring. But it also allows users to get many of the advantages of cellular monitoring, including homeowner’s insurance discounts. Even still, despite this drawback of alarm.com, it is our preferred interactive service.

That said, its closest competition is Honeywell’s Total Connect. Total Connect only works with Honeywell. It does almost everything that Alarm.com does, with a few specific differences - no native SIRI control, for example. That said, Honeywell makes excellent equipment. The Lyric alarm, for example, works with HomeKit. This integration will allow individual control of the unit from SIRI. This is actually more robust than even alarm.com’s SIRI integration. And the only options that a HomeKit user has on the Alarm.com side is the DSC iotega, which is a system that works, but for many reasons, doesn’t make this list.

Ultimately, whether you use Alarm.com or Total Connect, it will depend on your system’s interactive service compatibility. If you are interested in system features, look at the systems below. If you are more concerned with the usability of the interactive service, you can certainly pick a system based on its qualities and compatibility with an interactive service.

Runner Up: Total Connect

Best Overall System of 2020

Qolsys IQ Panel 2+

This security system is an amazing piece of equipment. It is a great looking home automation controller as well as a security system. It’s Alarm.com compatibility is a great feature that makes the Qolsys IQ Panel 2+ a stratospherically better panel than almost anything on the market. The system is built on the Android operating system. Ultimately, the Qolsys is what you get when you beset a Silicon Valley company with the task of building a professional alarm system. It is feature filled, beautifully and competently built.

One of the frustrations with the Qolsys is its lack of modularity. It is an expensive system. Everything is built in to the panel. Whereas most security systems allow a user to install (and uninstall) a cellular communicator, the Qolsys builds the communicator right into the panel itself. This sounds like a great feature, and it is. But that’s until the system’s communicator becomes obsolete. It’s something that doesn’t happen very often, but every 10 or so years, the cellular companies deprecate one or more of their networks. At this very moment, Alarm Grid’s subscribers are preparing to replace thousands of communicators. As Verizon and AT&T deprecate their old CDMA and 3G networks, the systems that have included these communicators are coming due for an upgrade. The drawback of the Qolsys is that there is no upgrade per se. Rather, end users with an older Qolsys will have to replace the entire panel.

Despite this drawback, the Qolsys is a great unit. One of its best features is its ability to take over old systems. For those that are looking to replace an old system, the Qolsys is a great choice. The new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus’s come in different varieties, each with a daughter card that allows them to grab the signals from other company’s wireless sensors.

Just awesome!

In our opinion the best feature of the new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, however, is not its amazing home automation features or its ability to take over other systems. It’s not even its slick Android interface. All those features can and are replicated by its competitors. Rather, our favorite feature of the Qolsys is its sensor’s ranges. The Qolsys is a panel whose PowerG sensors, which are encrypted, are capable of being monitored over HUGE ranges. We have seen the Qolsys detect sensors that are nearly a half mile away. This makes the PowerG line of sensors that are compatible with the Qolsys an amazing feature that no other all-in-one system has. These sensors basically remove the need for expensive repeaters. They are modern sensors that no other company has.

Eat your heart out Google, Amazon, and all ya’ll Silicon Valley companies trying to build better systems. None of these systems even touch the quality of the Qolsys in our opinion.

Runner-up: 2GIG GC3e

Best HomeKit Compatible System of 2020

Honeywell Lyric

The Lyric is in competition with DSC’s Iotega, which works as a HomeKit controller. If you’re looking for HomeKit control, and your home is filled with DSC sensors, the Iotega might be a better choice for you. But if you’re starting from scratch, nothing is better than the Lyric controller. This system is compatible with a wide range of sensors, including America’s most sold sensor, the 5816. It looks great on a wall. It’s fairly priced, and it does everything you’d want from a good looking system, including a photo album feature.

We sold more Lyric’s in 2019 than any other system on the market. This is largely due to Honeywell’s trusted name. The quality exemplified by the brand is epitomized in this sleek wall unit. Its versatility is buttressed by the hundreds of compatible sensors that Honeywell has released over the years.

We like Honeywell’s no-nonsense approach to monitoring. They put security over all. They were the first mainstream system on the market with both a panel and encrypted sensors. And the sensors work immensely well. We love Honeywell. We love the Lyric. At the moment, we believe that the Qolsys has surpassed the features of Honeywell’s alarm system. But the Lyric has one feature that Qolsys simply does not: the ability to be monitored by WiFi only. In fact, nearly all of Honeywell’s all-in-one systems can be monitored by WiFi only. For an end user, this means that they can be professionally monitored at a price that is significantly cheaper than that of a cellular system. For the budget conscience consumer, this presents an amazing opportunity to save money while getting all the benefits of a monitored system, including insurance discounts. We are a big fan of cellular monitoring. But the option is there for those who simply don’t think it’s as important as we do or for those who don’t want to pay the cost of cellular monitoring.

Runner Up: DSC iotega

Best Budget Alarm System

Honeywell L3000


We spent a lot of time debating whether the L3000 would be the best system for someone on a budget. We actually prefer the GC2e as a system. It’s a great looking system, it’s inexpensive, and it uses Alarm.com. But here’s the problem: it requires that anyone using it purchase a cellular communicator. Additionally, because its most minimal monitoring will include Alarm.com. This puts anyone purchasing it into a different category of spending. That said, if it’s not outside of your budget, the GC2e is a great system. It is our runner-up, because it is a good budget system, but it’s not great.

The low price of the L3000 is no indication of its quality. It is because it is a legacy system. It is often used by alarm companies that are putting systems into big apartment buildings. The system is amazing. It’s effective, will last for a very long time. Unfortunately, it’s ugly and can be a bear to program. Luckily for owners, programming is not something you do more than one time. And if you’re with Alarm Grid, there is a strong chance that we can program it for you.

Unlike the GC2e, the L3000 allows users to do IP-only monitoring. It also allows old-school phone line monitoring. That means, for the budget-conscious consumer, the L3000 is both cheaper to purchase than the GC2e, and will save an end user between $10 and $20 per month. In all, the L3000 will save anyone who installs it between $120 and $240 per year, while also being incredibly affordable at the outset. Huzzah! Oh, and for those concerned about sensors, the L3000 works great with any of the Honeywell’s 5800 sensors. You will have a ton of sensors to pick from, which also makes the system the most versatile budget system on the market.

We love the L3000 as a budget system.

Runner-Up: 2GIG GC2e

Best Wired Alarm System of 2020

Honeywell VISTA 20P

This is an oldie but a goodie. The VISTA 20P has been produced by Honeywell for many many years now. It's an excellent system with great, modern features. Honeywell produces update chips that they release every once in a while. These updates allow the system to take advantage of modern features like those available in the VAM or Tuxedo Touch. Home Automation? You can do it using the VISTA 20P. Manage both wired and wireless sensors? You can do that very easily with the VISTA 20P by adding a wireless receiver or a keypad with a wireless receiver built in. In all, this system has all the same great features of its all-in-one wireless contemporaries. 2 drawbacks to speak of, though: 1) it's big and bulky; 2) programming these systems sucks.

Runner-up: Honeywell VISTA 21iP

What Else is Coming in 2020?

Every year, professional systems get better and better. The systems that are coming soon are no different. In the coming months, we are expecting the release of Qolsys’s new Hub as well as Honeywell’s ProSeries panel. 2GIG hasn’t announced anything yet. But they just released the encrypted versions of their panels.

Unfortunately, 2019 saw the close of Interlogix’s security systems production division. While interlogix was not known for the incredible innovation of their systems, they made great budget models that gave users a simple, cheap entry point into security systems. They will be missed. But the three main producers--2GIG, Qolsys, and Resideo (formerly Honeywell)--are continuing to pioneer new and innovative features.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

The 2GIG GC3e is one of the more interesting security system options for the 2019 holiday season. The system was just released earlier this year, and it comes from a strong manufacturer in 2GIG and Nortek. This buying guide will help whether you are considering the system or expanding upon one.

2gig gc3e wireless encrypted alarm panelAt first glance, the 2GIG GC3e is kind of an odd system to choose when considering the other options out there. It doesn't have the option for IP only monitoring like the Lyric, as Alarm.com requires you to activate a cellular communicator. It also doesn't offer as many features as the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and it isn't as easy to program. Also unlike the IQ2+, the GC3e needs you to add a separate cellular communicator module. That's something else you will need to consider when buying this system. But beyond all of these downsides, the 2GIG GC3e really is one of the best panels on the market today. It has some great features, and its build-quality is second to none.

If you aren't already aware, the 2GIG GC3e is a wireless all-in-one system from 2GIG, which is owned by Nortek. The system offers support for up to 100 wireless zones, four (4) "Smart Area" partitions, integrated WIFI, built-in Z-Wave Plus, encrypted wireless sensor support, one-touch arming, capacitive touch buttons, and more. It is the successor to the successful 2GIG GC3 System, which has been used by countless homes and businesses alike. If you are familiar with 2GIG programming, or you don't need all of the flashy features of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, then the 2GIG GC3e might be the system for you.

Building a 2GIG GC3e from Scratch

2gig gc3e at and t lte 10 1 kit wireless encrypted alarm system

As we mentioned earlier, you will need an added cellular communicator if you intend on using a 2GIG GC3e System for alarm monitoring service. You have two main choices, which are the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 (AT&T LTE) and the 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 (Verizon LTE). It is recommended that you just go with whichever service works better in your area, regardless of what you use for a personal smartphone. Choosing one over the other will not save you any money in monitoring expenses, as the cellular service charges are covered by your alarm company as part of your monitoring plan. If you decide to get monitoring service with Alarm Grid, then you will want a Gold or Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full) or a Cellular-Only Plan. By choosing a Gold or Platinum Plan, you will be able to control your GC3e System remotely using the ultra-convenient Alarm.com platform app on your phone!

The easiest way to get started with a new 2GIG GC3e System, cellular communicator and all, is by purchasing a 2GIG System Kit from Alarm Grid. A new 2GIG GC3e System Kit will include a GC3e System, a cellular communicator, some sensors, and a Honeywell LT-Cable for powering the panel. We have kits with either the AT&T LTE Communicator or the Verizon LTE Communicator. You will also need to decide whether you want a 3-1 kit with three (3) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor, or a 10-1 kit with ten (10) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor.

In total, we have four (4) 2GIG GC3e Kits available. They are listed here:

Sensors for New and Existing GC3e Systems

2gig dw10 wireless slim door slash window contact

There are two (2) main categories of wireless sensors that you can use with a 2GIG GC3e System. These are non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors, and encrypted 2GIG Sensors. Both types work great with the system, and you can certainly mix the two! The encrypted sensors are good for preventing any wireless hacking or takeover attempts by savvy intruders. But the non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors have more options available, as the encrypted lineup was only released earlier this year.

The 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Wireless Sensors are good for preventing wireless attacks that could cause non-encrypted sensors to not work properly. These brand-new sensors are designed exclusively for use with the 2GIG GC3e and its little brother, the 2GIG GC2e. The lineup is very small at this time, as we only have five (5) sensors available on our website. But the good news is that we hope to have several new sensors from this lineup available soon!

Here are the 2GIG eSeries Sensors that are available from Alarm Grid at the time of this writing:

Of course, you will need to supplement these devices with 345 MHz sensors if you really want to broaden the capabilities of your 2GIG GC3e System. You can use both 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors, as well as various third-party 345 MHz sensors. For our discussion, we will focus on the 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors, but don't be afraid to look to the Honeywell 5800 Series for some extra devices!

The 2GIG 345 MHz lineup is quite robust, and it really has everything you need. What's great is that the lineup includes some rather unique sensors that you probably won't find elsewhere. We won't list every 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor here, but we will cover some of the more notable and the more interesting ones. Check them out:

Accessories for Your GC3e

As we mentioned earlier, the 2GIG GC3e has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller for you to start adding Z-Wave devices. We recommend using certified Z-Wave Plus devices for optimal range and battery life, but you can use classic Z-Wave devices as well. By activating your GC3e System with Alarm.com you can control these devices from pretty much anywhere using your phone. You can also create smart scenes through Alarm.com to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically based on a schedule or with predetermined system events.

There really are many Z-Wave devices to choose from, but here are just some of our favorites:

If you decide to sign up for a monitoring plan that includes video surveillance, such as an Alarm Grid Platinum Plan (Self or Full), then you will want to get some Alarm.com Security Cameras as well. Alarm.com has some great cameras to choose from, which gives your some nice options. Remember that you can view your cameras remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App on your Android or iOS device. This is awesome if you want to take a look at what is going on in or around your home while you are away.

We won't list every Alarm.com Camera here, but we have three really good ones that you should make sure to check out:


And there are certainly some extra accessories you can get for your 2GIG GC3e. If you are looking for a keypad, then we recommend the 2GIG SP1-GC3. This is a full-color touchscreen keypad that offers some great features like the ability to bypass zones, voice annunciation, home automation control, a 5-day weather forecast, and more. If you only need a basic secondary keypad, then you might also consider the 2GIG PAD1-345 Push-Button Keypad. Although this keypad is extremely simple, it is perfect if you just want to setup another spot in your business for arming and disarming.

2gig sp1 gc3 wireless touchscreen keypad for gc3Finally, there is a great desk mount for the 2GIG GC3e called the 2GIG CP-DESK. This is actually the same desk mount used with the other 2GIG Security Systems. It will keep the GC3e Panel nice and sturdy if you decide to not mount it to a wall. A desk mount like this is perfect if you want to avoid drilling holes in the wall and hard-mounting the panel. This is also ideal if you know that you may be moving sometime in the future, and you want to bring the system with you on your move!

2gig cp desk go control panel desktop mountWe hope this buying guide helps you whether you are considering a new 2GIG GC3e, or expanding upon an existing panel. As always, you can email us with any questions at support@alarmgrid.com. We also invite you to call us at (888) 818-7728 to learn more about any of our products or our alarm monitoring services. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to helping you!

Tags: , , , , , , ,

Comments


Posted By

Hi DIYers! Today, we wanted to let you know about some of the new security system kits that are available from the Alarm Grid website. We have new kits that feature the Resideo Lyric, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, and 433 MHz), the 2GIG GC3e and the 2GIG GC2e Systems.

Honeywell lyricpk10 lte enc encrypted at and t lte alarm system

Our system kits are perfect for anyone just getting started with alarm monitoring service. Each one includes a brand-new alarm panel, some door and window sensors, a motion sensor, an LTE cellular communicator, and a power cable. You can easily expand around any of these systems later on if needed. Just remember that you will need a monitoring plan to use one of these systems with Alarm Grid. A Gold Plan or higher is needed for cellular communication.

Now that you know a little bit about our kits, let's take a look at each new one individually:

Resideo Lyric w/ Verizon LTE Communicator Kits

Lyric Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit


Lyric Verizon-LTE 10-1 Kit

  • Lyric System
  • LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
  • 10 Versa-2GIG Contacts
  • SiXPIR Motion
  • LT-Cable


Lyric Verizon-LTE 3-1 Encrypted Kit


Lyric Verizon-LTE 10-1 Encrypted Kit

  • Lyric System
  • LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
  • 10 SiXMINICT Contacts
  • SiXPIR Motion
  • LT-Cable


Qolsys IQ 319.5 MHz PowerG Kits

IQ Panel 2 319.5 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 319.5 MHz AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit
  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
  • 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


IQ Panel 2 319.5 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 319.5 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit
  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
  • 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


Qolsys IQ 345 MHz PowerG Kits

IQ Panel 2 345 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 345 MHz AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit

  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
  • 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


IQ Panel 2 345 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 345 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit

  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
  • 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


Qolsys IQ 433 MHz PowerG Kits

IQ Panel 2 433 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 433 MHz AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit

  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 433MHz w/ AT&T LTE
  • 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


IQ Panel 2 433 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit


IQ Panel 2 433 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit

  • IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
  • 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
  • PG 9914 PowerG Motion


2GIG GC3e Kits

2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit


2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 10-1 Kit

  • 2GIG GC3e System
  • 2GIG LTEV-1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator
  • 10 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
  • 2GIG PIR1e Motion
  • LT Cable


2GIG GC2e Kits

2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit


2GIG GC2e Verizon-LTE 10-1 Kit

  • 2GIG GC2e System
  • 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC2 Verizon LTE
  • Communicator
  • 10 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
  • 2GIG PIR1e Motion
  • LT Cable


All of these great kits are available from Alarm Grid right now. If you have any questions or need help choosing a system, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Comments