Alarm.com Posts

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.

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

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

Lyric Verizon-LTE 3-1 Encrypted Kit

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

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 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

• 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 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

• 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 Plus 345 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

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 Plus 345 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

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 Plus 433 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

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 Plus 433 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

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 System
• 2GIG LTEV-1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

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 System
• 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC2 Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

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!

Hi DIYers! We are excited to learn that Firmware Version 2.4.0 is now available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus. The update can easily be applied at the panel or pushed from Alarm.com. Many new features and automation capabilities come included with the firmware update.

The following updates to the system are applied with Firmware Version 2.4.0:

Improved User Interface (UI)
- Ability to Hide Security, Lock, and Thermostat Pages
- Dynamic Screen Lock Page - Enable Independently from Partitions
- All-New Automation & Wellness Pages

Improved Partitions 2.0
- Global Arming
- Bluetooth Disarming by Partition

LiftMaster MyQ Garage Control
- New Panel UI for LiftMaster Garage Door Devices Paired w/ Alarm.com

ADC Scene Control
- Control Alarm.com Scenes Directly from Panel

IQ Remote Enhancements
- Alarm.com Videos thru Built-In Camera
- Live-Stream ADC Cameras and Video Doorbell thru IQ Remote (No Audio)
- Connectivity Improvements

Home Automation
- Support for Z-Wave Version 6.81.03 - Including S2 Security & SmartStart
- Note: Only for Panels Manufactured w/ 2.4.0 & Above; Not for Panels Receiving Update OTA
- Support for LQI 2 (link quality indicators)
- Emergency Heat Mode for Z-Wave Thermostats now supported

PowerG
- PowerG Modem Firmware Update 80.25
- Fixes Compatibility with the DSC PG9312 Outdoor Contact

Panel Motion
- Sensitivity Settings - High, Medium, Low
- Mask-Off Up to Four (4) Distinct Areas

Other
- QR Code Scanning for S-Line Sensor Enrollment (319.5 MHz Panel Only)
- Language Improvements

While we will certainly be showing off these features in greater detail sometime in the near future, for now we just want to show you how to download the new firmware. You can have the update pushed down automatically from the Alarm.com servers free of charge. Alarm Grid customers can do this by emailing us at support@alarmgrid.com. You will need to have the panel monitored with Alarm Grid and connected to WIFI for us to do this.

But the easiest way to update is to apply the update yourself at the panel. Again, make sure your system is monitored and connected to WIFI before you begin. It will also need to be plugged-in and not have a low-battery condition. Start from the main screen of the system. Click on the small grey bar at the top. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > type in iqpanel2.4.0 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. If done correctly, the new firmware update should be downloaded. Once it has been completely downloaded, press "OK" to begin the update process. The panel will reboot as part of the update. The entire process will take around five (5) minutes and is complete after the reboot.

If you have any questions about this update, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. This looks to be a very exciting update for the IQ Panel 2 plus, and we can't wait for you to check it out. We will be showing off some of these features in greater detail in the coming days. Keep checking our blog for more information!

Alarm Grid is very happy to announce that the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 is now available for purchase from our website. This device serves as the central hub for a Lutron Smart Lighting setup. It offers a brand-new integration with Alarm.com for added flexibility and control.

It's funny, we were just talking about Lutron the other day and how great their lighting products are. We didn't know that just a few days later we would be talking about the exciting Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2. This hub supports all of the same great integrations and features as the original Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge. These integrations include Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Nest, Sonos Sound, and more.

But the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 adds the ability to integrate your Lutron Lights with Alarm.com. This is huge news for anyone with an Alarm.com Security System. Now you can control your Lutron devices and your security system from the super convenient Alarm.com App. You can even include your Lutron Lights with smart scenes for automatic operation based on a schedule or with certain system events!

If you are not familiar with Lutron Lights, then prepare to have your life brightened! These smart lights offer a multitude of great features that help them outshine similar products. By using the free-to-download Lutron App, you can create smart schedules to have your lights turn ON and OFF at set times of the day.

The Lutron App also supports Geofencing features to have your lights respond based on the location of your smartphone. This is great if you want to have your lights turn ON automatically when you arrive home, or shut OFF when you leave for the day. There is also a cool feature called "Smart Away" that will have your lights turn ON and OFF at random times during the evening to make it look like you are home. This is perfect for when you are traveling.

Remember, you will need a monitoring plan that includes Alarm.com if you want to integrate your Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 with that platform. For Alarm Grid customers, this includes any Gold or Platinum Level Plan. More information about our monitoring services is available on our alarm monitoring page.

The Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 is compatible with all of the existing Lutron Caseta devices that were already sold on our site. We have all the resources you need to create complete smart lighting network based around Lutron. If you have any questions about Lutron or the new Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Today, we are taking a look at one of the more interesting products we have available, the 2GIG GNGRD1-345 Gun Trigger Lock. This gun-safety device is a combination lock that prevents the unauthorized use of a firearm. It will also alert a compatible alarm system when moved.

If you are a responsible gun owner, then you know how important it is to prevent others from using your weapons. This is especially true if you have young children in the home who may accidentally get into your firearms. With the 2GIG GNGRD1-345, you can put these concerns to rest. This safety device fits conveniently over the trigger on your fire arm to prevent it from being activated. The only way to fire the weapon will be to remove the trigger lock. The device fits a wide-variety of different firearms, including handguns, pistols, rifles, and shotguns. It is even California Gun Safety (DOJ) Device Certified.

The 2GIG GNGRD1-345 features a 3-digit combination lock, and it can only be removed if the correct code is entered. The device is extremely strong and tough, and an unauthorized user will not be able to remove the trigger lock without destroying the weapon itself. This will give you peace of mind in knowing that your weapons are secure. While we always recommend keeping any weapons out of reach from unauthorized users, especially children, this device will prevent them from using them if they do gain access. Please note that we do not recommend using the device on a loaded firearm.

If the 3-digit combination lock were not enough, the device also contains a built-in sensor to detect if the firearm is ever moved in any way. If anyone picks up the weapon or tries to remove the sensor, then it will send an alert to your security panel. If you have an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, then you can receive remote alerts right to your smartphone while you are away. This is great for knowing if your young kids or someone else gets into your weapons. Remember to check out our monitoring page to learn more about accessing TC2 or ADC.

As a 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor, the GNGRD1-345 will work with a variety of different systems. It is specifically built for the 2GIG GC2, the 2GIG GC3, and the new encrypted 2GIG Systems, the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e. However, the non-encrypted 2GIG 345 MHz signal is also accepted by other systems. You can use the GNGRD1-345 with the Resideo Lyric Panel and the 345 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. And even if you do not pair it with a system for movement detection, the device will still work as a trigger lock.

You can buy the 2GIG GNGRD1-345 Gun Trigger Lock right now on the Alarm Grid website. We know that not everyone chooses to keep firearms in the home. But if you do, you can keep your weapons safe with this trusted device. If you have any questions about this firearm safety product, or any of the other products on our site, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! It's time again for our video recap. Our video team did a great job last week, as they worked very hard to put up some helpful new videos. Jorge made the most videos with four (4) this time around. I even made a rare on-camera appearance! Let's check out the new videos.

Setting the Communication Path In a Lyric Controller

Jorge explains how to set the communication path for a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. You can choose between WIFI & Cellular, WIFI-Only, Cellular-Only, and None. If you have both WIFI and cellular enabled, then the system will use WIFI as the primary path to communicate with the AlarmNet Servers. Please note that you will need to add a cellular module to use cellular communication with the Lyric System. We recommend using the LYRICLTE-A or the LYRICLTE-V.

Using the IPCAM-WOC1 With a Lyric Security System

Jorge talks about how it is not possible to view the live feed for the IPCAM-WOC1 Security Camera through a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. The only way that you can view the live feed for this camera is through Total Connect 2.0. This is the interactive monitoring and automation platform that is commonly used with the Lyric System. You can access this platform through the TC2 website or mobile app. You will also need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to TC2 and video surveillance.

Reasons to Purchase an LTE Cellular Communicator

Jarrett discusses the reasons why you should make sure to buy an LTE cellular communicator for your alarm system. An LTE communicator will provide a fast and reliable connection that will keep your system monitored at all times. It will also provide a long-term monitoring solution for your panel. This is because cellular service providers have no plans to shut down their LTE networks any time soon. Older cellular networks like 3G and CDMA are expected to be shut down sometime in the coming years.

Setting Up The Slideshow Feature on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge teaches users how to set up the slideshow function on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Security System. The slideshow feature allows the panel to operate like a digital picture frame. This can be nice for making the aesthetic in your home more pleasant. Images are loaded onto the panel through a MicroSD card. There are many restrictions regarding the pictures that can be used in the slideshow function. Make sure to pay close attention in the video so you know which images you can add.

Z-Wave Light Status with Alarm.com

Jorge goes into detail about the Z-Wave light status feature for Alarm.com. A maximum of ten (10) "uncertified" Z-Wave lights can have their current ON/OFF status displayed from Alarm.com. Although you can add more Z-Wave lights beyond this limit, Alarm.com won't know whether the light is ON or OFF. In other words, you will be controlling these lights blindly. Alarm.com also has a list of "certified" Z-Wave Plus lights that do not count towards this device limit.

Alphanumeric, Fixed English, or Touchscreen Keypad?

I help you determine whether the keypad for your Honeywell VISTA System is an Alphanumeric Keypad, a Fixed English Keypad, or a Touchscreen Keypad. You can recognize an Alphanumeric Keypad because it will display "Installer Code 20" when you enter programming. A Fixed English Keypad will only display "20". A Touchscreen Keypad will have a Console Mode that allows the system to behave as an Alphanumeric Keypad. You should only use an Alphanumeric Keypad or a Touchscreen Keypad in Console Mode to complete deep-level programming.

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that there are new firmware updates available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the 2GIG GC3e & GC3 Systems. Qolsys users can apply the firmware update locally at the panel. 2GIG users can apply from USB or have it pushed from Alarm.com for a small fee.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Version 2.3.4

Starting with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, Firmware Update 2.3.4 is now available. This is a relatively minor upgrade to the system that improves recognition of the PowerG daughterboard for supporting wireless PowerG Sensors. Although you can technically apply this update to an original Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System, it won't make a difference, because that system does not have a PowerG daughtercard. Since you can apply this update locally at the panel, there is no fee required to receive this update. Remember, your system must be actively monitored and connected with Alarm.com for the update to go through.

In order to apply this update, you must have your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus connected to WIFI. The panel should be plugged into AC power, and it should not have a low-battery condition. To begin, start from the main screen of the system. Press the small grey bar at the top of the screen. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings> Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > enter iqpanel2.3.4 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. The system should begin downloading the update. Once the download is complete, the update will be applied. This process should take about five (5) minutes. The panel will reboot at this time. The process is complete after the reboot finishes.

2GIG GC3e & GC3 Firmware Version 3.2.3

The 2GIG GC3e System just became available very recently. This Firmware Update Version 3.2.3 is a great way to get your new GC3e System up and running. Additionally, existing users of the original 2GIG GC3 System can also apply this same update. The update provides support for the new AT&T LTE Communicator (coming soon!) and allows for 6-digit user codes with both the panel and compatible Z-Wave locks. It also provides various fixes and helps the system run smoother overall. It is recommended that every GC3e and GC3 user receives this update so that they can continue to get the most out of their system.

The easiest way to receive Firmware Version 3.2.3 is to simply have it pushed down from Alarm.com. To do this, the system must have an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator installed and activated. You must contact your alarm company and ask them to push the update. There will be a small fee for this service. If you don't have Alarm.com, you can get more information on our monitoring page. The latest update can also be applied directly at the panel. To do this, you must download the update file onto a USB flash drive and insert the drive into the panel. You will then be able to apply the update locally at no cost. More information on this process can be found in this helpful FAQ. Although that FAQ is specific to the original 2GIG GC3 System, the 2GIG GC3e will follow the same process. Remember, there is no cost required to update via USB.

If you have questions about either of these firmware updates, or if you would like to learn more about our monitoring services, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is always to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions!

Hi DIYers! We have a small video recap this week. Our video team was on vacation for most of the week, but we put up three (3) new videos on Tuesday, August 6th. We have two (2) from Joe and one (1) from Jorge. We hope you are excited to check them out! Let's take a look our newest videos!

Carbon Monoxide Detector Functionality

Joe explains how carbon monoxide sensors for security systems are used. These life-safety devices will alert the alarm control panel whenever there is an outbreak of potentially lethal CO gas. This gas is odorless and tasteless, and it kills hundreds of people every single year. We recommend placing carbon monoxide sensors outside of bedrooms, in hallways, and in large central areas like living rooms. You should have at least one (1) CO detector on each floor of the building.

Features Included With an Alarm.com Video Plan

Jorge talks about the features that come included with an Alarm.com video plan. By using Alarm.com for video monitoring, you can view clips from Alarm.com and download them for permanent use. Alarm Grid provides 3,000 monthly clips and 3,000 total clips for any customer with Alarm.com video monitoring. We also provide complimentary Video Analytics at no extra charge. Additional monthly and total clips are available for an added fee. To use video monitoring with Alarm.com, you need a Platinum Plan or a Video-Only Plan.

Error Code 103 On a VISTA Alarm System

Joe discusses the Check 103 Error Code on a Honeywell VISTA System. The Check 103 message will be displayed on an Alphanumeric Keypad when there is a problem with the system's cellular communicator. There are many reasons why a Check 103 error might be displayed. Some possible causes can be a loose tamper cover on the communicator, the panel being unable to recognize the communicator, or the communicator not being registered with AlarmNet. Please note that a Fixed-English Keypad will display the message bF instead for "backup failure".

Hi DIYers! We are pleased to announce that the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is now available for purchase from the Alarm Grid website. This is a capable wireless panel, all available at an affordable price. It is perfect for homes and small businesses looking for an effective security solution.

Although the Simon XTi-5i is considered a "budget" alarm system, it still offers the same great performance you would expect out of any modern alarm system. The system is essentially an upgrade over the current Simon XTi-5, but it has been revamped to enhance the end user experience. The 5" full-color touchscreen has been improved from the older models, and it feels more satisfying to control. We tested the touchscreen at ISC West 2019, and we gotta say, it's a major improvement.

New to the Simon XTi-5i is the ability to adjust the user interface (UI). You can have the color schemes for the system menus match those from Alarm.com. You will get the same great orange and white color scheme for the Simon XTi-5i as what you have on Alarm.com. This should help you feel more comfortable, whether you are controlling your system from the panel or from the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices. By using the mobile app, you can access your system from almost anywhere!

In order to access Alarm.com, you will need an Alarm.com Communicator. Both LTE cellular and dual-path options are available. Getting your Simon XTi-5i connected with Alarm.com will provide you with the most reliable alarm monitoring service possible. You will also be able to access Alarm.com through the mobile app to control your system in a variety of ways. This includes arming and disarming, checking system status, controlling Z-Wave devices, viewing Alarm.com Cameras, and more. Please note that you will need a Self Gold Plan or higher from Alarm Grid to access Alarm.com, and a Self Platinum level plan or higher is required for remote viewing of Alarm.com cameras. More information can be found on our alarm monitoring page.

The Simon XTi-5i will actually support the same communicators as all of the previous Simon Panels. We recommend using one of the following communicators:

• Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT (AT&T LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-VZ (Verizon LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT (AT&T LTE & IP)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ (Verizon LTE & IP)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT (AT&T LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-VZ (Verizon LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only) (Must be FW 191C or higher)

Each of these communicators also doubles as a perfectly functional Z-Wave controller. This will allow you to start building a complete smart home network of Z-Wave devices. You can create scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically with certain system events or on a set schedule. This can definitely help you save money on energy costs and make your life more convenient. There are all sorts of Z-Wave devices you can add, including lights, locks, thermostats, water valves, and more!

In addition to a better touchscreen and revamped menus, the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i also packs some more power under the cover. The zone count has doubled up to 80 wireless zones. This is perfect for virtually any home or any small to medium sized business. You can even use two (2) hardwired Normally Closed (NC) contacts with the system and connect them to the main board. Just be aware that these hardwired contact sensors will still cut into the maximum 80 zone limit.

As far as sensor support goes, the Simon XTi-5i facilitates the same great 319.5 MHz sensors that its predecessors supported. This includes the wireless sensors from Interlogix and Qolsys. You can also use the Qolsys S-Line Sensors with the system, though they will not utilize encryption with the Simon XTi-5i. If you want encrypted sensors for the system, you will have to wait for the exclusive lineup of Interlogix Encrypted Sensors, which should be made available soon. It is unknown which form of encryption these sensors will utilize, but it is expected that they will work exclusively with the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System.

You can now purchase the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i from Alarm Grid! If you have any questions about this exciting new system, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. If you prefer to call us, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and telling you all about this great new panel!

Hi DIYers! It's time for our weekly video recap. We have a great batch of videos for you all today. Our technicians Joe, Jarrett, and Jorge will all help you learn how to use your alarm systems and get the most out of your equipment. Let's check out the latest videos from the team.

Adding Wired Motion Detectors to the VISTA 20P

Joe teaches users how to add wired motion detection sensors to a Resideo VISTA 20P System. Hardwired motion sensors will use a 4-wire connection, with two (2) wires being used for the zone input, and two (2) wires being used for power. Most hardwired motion sensors use a Normally Closed (NC) wiring configuration, meaning that they are wired in Series. However, there are some Form C motion sensors that can use a Normally Open (NO) wiring configuration for wiring in parallel.

Troubleshooting a Low Battery Condition on a VISTA Panel

Joe explains how to troubleshoot a low battery condition on a Resideo VISTA Alarm Panel. You will need a voltmeter to do this. The first step is to check the AC voltage. You should expect to see about 18 to 19 volts on a 16.5VAC transformer. Next, check the Auxiliary Power. You should see a reading of 13 volts or higher. Finally, you should check the charging voltage. This should be the same as the auxiliary power voltage.

Adding a 2-Wire Smoke to the Qolsys Hardwire 16-F

Joe teaches users how to add 2-wire smoke detectors to a Qolsys Hardwire 16-F. Any 2-wire smoke detectors used with the Hardwire 16-F must be connected at Zone 16. You must wire the smoke detector(s), plus any other sensors used with the module, before enrolling the Hardwire 16-F with the panel. This lets the module know the proper configuration for each zone. The 2-wire smoke detectors will use Normally Open (NO) wiring. Most burglary devices use Normally Closed (NC) wiring. CO detectors cannot be used with the Hardwire 16-F. You will also need 4.7k resistors at each zone.

Turning Off "Arm Confirm" in a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge explains how you cannot turn off the Arm Confirm feature on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. The Arm Confirm feature has the panel produce a loud tone when the system is Armed Away using a key fob or wireless keypad. The purpose of this tone is to make sure that the user knows that they have set their system to Arm Away and that they should exit the premises. Unfortunately, you cannot turn off the Arm Confirm feature on the IQ Panel 2 Plus System because it does not exist.

Arm Away Vs. Arm Maximum

Jarrett discusses the difference between the Arm Away and Arm Maximum modes. When you Arm Maximum, you are telling your system to ignore all of the Entry Delay Periods on your system. This means that if you open an Entry/Exit Zone while the system is set to Arm Maximum, then an immediate alarm will occur. If you are outside the building, you will need to disarm using a key fob or an interactive platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

Hi DIYers! Are you still looking for the perfect smart lock? We have some brand-new options available with the Yale YRL236 and Yale YRL256. Both options utilize Z-Wave Plus connectivity and make great additions to your growing smart home network. They are perfect for use with TC2 and ADC.

When it comes to choosing a Z-Wave Plus Smart Lock, you want to make sure that the device you choose is easy to use and does its job of keeping your home safe. With a proven company like Yale from Assa Abbloy, you can rely on these smart locks with complete and total confidence. It has never been this easy to protect your home.

The Assure Lever Locks from Yale feature aesthetically pleasing designs that fit-in nicely with any home decor. Both the YRL236 and YRL256 models come in three (3) different finish options. These are Polished Brass, Satin Nickel, and Oil Rubbed Bronze. We know that the stylish consumer will find the design that matches their home the best. After all, we know that appearance matters too.

There is one major difference between the YRL236 and YRL256 models. The YRL236 includes a more traditional acrylic push-button keypad, while the YRL256 uses an electronic touchscreen. The acrylic keys of the YRL236 are durable and specifically designed to not wear-off with repeated use. The touchscreen keypad of the YRL256 is state-of-the-art and perfect for users who want a more advanced experience.

Whether you choose the tried and true push-button keypad of the YRL236 or the futuristic touchscreen keypad of the YRL256, you can be sure that you are getting an exceptional smart device. Both options feature back-lighting, which means that you will have no trouble using your door lock at night when it's dark outside. Other built-in features include auto re-locking, privacy mode, and tamper alarms.

The YRL236 and YRL256 both pair nicely with any Z-Wave controller. We recommend using a Z-Wave Plus controller for optimal wireless range and battery life. Both of these Yale Smart Locks are excellent devices for your smart home. You can get both the YRL236 and the YRL256, plus many other smart home devices, right from the Alarm Grid website. We also encourage you to check out our alarm monitoring page so that you can learn more about accessing Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com.

If you have any questions about the YRL236, the YRL256, or any of our smart home products, please reach out to us. The best and most efficient way to ask us questions is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to answering all your smart home questions!