Alarm.com Posts

Hi DIYers! We have a small video recap this week, as only four (4) new videos were produced. But they're really good ones from Jorge and Jarrett, who both had two (2) each. They're here to help you learn how to use your security system. Let's check out the new videos for June 18th thru 21st.

Locations Suitable for Installing Heat Detectors

Jorge discusses the rooms in a home that are better-suited for standalone heat detectors than traditional smoke detectors. Normally, a user will use smoke detectors because they will detect a fire more quickly. But there are some rooms where it is better to use a heat detector, as a smoke detector may lead to false alarms. Popular locations for heat detectors include kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and attics. There are also combination smoke and heat detectors that use both detection methods.

Resideo Lyric Alarm System Vs. Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge compares the Resideo Lyric Alarm System and the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems. Both systems are some of the best on the market, and they offer some excellent features. Both offer support for up to 128 zones and feature a 7-inch touchscreen display. The advantages to the IQ Panel 2 Plus include its built-in Z-Wave Plus card, its integrated Alarm.com LTE Cellular Communicator, four (4) partitions, facial recognition, automatic Bluetooth disarming, and the ability to livestream cameras. But the Lyric offers HomeKit support.

Compatible Back-Up Battery for the 2GIG GC3

Jarrett is happy to talk about the backup battery for the 2GIG GC3 Security System. Normally, the system is powered using a plug in transformer. But if the electricity goes out, then a backup battery will keep the system running. The backup battery will slowly store a charge while the system is running on transformer power. That way, it will be ready for a power outage. The backup battery for the 2GIG GC3 is called the 2GIG BATTERY-GC3. The battery will provide up to 24 hours of backup power.

Using an LT-Cable With The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jarrett is back for a second round, as he shows users how to use the Honeywell LT-Cable with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The LT-Cable is a convenient option for providing power to an alarm panel. The wires come pre-prepared and ready to connect with the panel and transformer. All you need is a screwdriver. If you need to cut power to the system, you can unplug the male-female barrel connector. This means that you won't have to unplug the transformer from the wall.

Hi DIYers! We are pleased to announce that the ADC-T3000 Smart Thermostat is now available for purchase from the Alarm Grid website. This thermostat improves upon the older ADC-T2000 Thermostat with increased capabilities, a new slimmer design, and advanced features for end users.

End users looking for a state-of-the-art smart thermostat can receive great results from the Alarm.com ADC-T3000. This Z-Wave Plus Thermostat is designed for use with the Alarm.com platform. However, you can really use it with any Z-Wave smart home network. This includes Resideo Systems that use the Total Connect 2.0 platform. No matter how you control your smart home devices, you will love the performance of your new ADC-T3000.

There are many great features that make the ADC-T3000 a worthwhile upgrade. For one, this has more space for wiring than the previous model. Installers will also appreciate the improved access terminals that make it easier to wire the connections. It is also easier to understand what action the HVAC system is performing, as the ADC-T3000 will actively display the word "Heat" or "Cool" based on the current activity. The device measures 4.1"L x 5.0"W x 0.7"D, which is even slimmer and sleeker than the previous model. The device uses two (2) AAA batteries for backup power, and all the necessary mounting hardware comes included.

Additionally, Alarm.com has also expanded upon the list of their certified Z-Wave smart lighting devices. All of the lights listed below have been certified by Alarm.com, but not for "real-time" status. This means that they have been tested and will work well with Alarm.com, but they will still count against the 10 device limit for displaying status. For more information on the Alarm.com displayed lighting status limit, please review this FAQ.

• Jasco Enbrighten Smart LED Bulb A19 (39723)
• Jasco In-Wall Dimmer Toggle (14322, 14296)
• Jasco Dimmer Switch Toggle (14319, 14293)
• Leviton In-wall Switch (DZ15S)
• Leviton In-wall Dimmer (DZ6HD - 600W)
• Leviton Plug-in Outlet (DZPA1)
• Leviton Plug-in Dimmer (DZPD3)

Finally, Alarm.com has announced that the ADC-V622 Security Camera is now compatible with their Video Analytics feature. Video Analytics is an advanced feature that allows users to receive real time alerts (text and/or email) regarding unusual activity or movement, while ignoring routine movement. This is done using advanced AI software that is only available from Alarm.com. This technology can actively distinguish between people, vehicles and animals. It can also determine direction of movement and the duration of any captured activity.

If you have questions about any of these Alarm.com updates, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. Keep this in mind if you decide to email us. We look forward to hearing from you.

Welcome DIYers! We're here with another video recap, this time covering June 10th thru 14th. It was a great week for our video team, as 10 new videos are ready for viewing. Your favorite Alarm Grid boys Jarrett, Joe and Jorge are all here. Let's check out the newest videos from the team.

Location of the MAC Address on a Honeywell L5210

Jarrett teaches users how to find the MAC address for your Honeywell L5210 Security System. The MAC address is actually associated with the added Honeywell L5100-WIFI Card. You will need to provide this code when activating your WIFI communicator for monitoring service. The code consists of a 12 digit combination of numbers and letters. This code can be found on the box for the L5100-WIFI, on the module itself or inside panel programming. You will also need to provide the CRC code, which is found alongside the MAC address.

Panels That Support Telguard HomeControl Flex

The helpful and friendly Joe talks about which panels support the Telguard HomeControl Flex interactive service. This service is a lot like Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com. In order to access this service, you will need an appropriate Telguard Communicator. You will also need active alarm monitoring service. Most Alarm Grid customers access this service using a Telguard TG1-Express. This communicator allows a panel with a phone line to communicate across a cellular network.

Resideo Total Connect 2.0 Recording Limits

Jorge discusses the Resideo Total Connect 2.0 recording limits for Resideo IP Cameras. The limit depends on which type of Resideo IP Cameras you are using with your system. The newer HD camera models allow you to store up to 1,500 clips for up to 30 days. Any clip older than 30 days will be automatically deleted. Additionally, clips are deleted if you reach the 1,500 clip limit. The older, non-HD models allow for 100MB of storage or 7 day, whichever comes first.

SkyBell Video Clip Availability

Jorge explains the SkyBell video clip availability limits for both Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com. These services follow completely different rules in this regard. For Total Connect 2.0, clips are stored for seven (7) days. For Alarm.com, it is more complicated. It depends on what type of monitoring plan you have. There will be a limit to the number of total clips you can store on Alarm.com. There will also be a limit on the number of clips your cameras can store per month on Alarm.com.

Learning the Honeywell 5800CO into a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

The ever-cheeky Joe teaches you how to add a Honeywell 5800CO Carbon Monoxide Sensor into a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. You must use the 345 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus if you want to add a Honeywell 5800CO Sensor. This is the only version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus that can support 345 MHz sensors. This module will provide your home or business with accurate and reliable detection of potentially lethal carbon monoxide gas.

Flood Sensor Notifications from a Lyric via Apple HomeKit

Jarrett is back, and he explains why you cannot receive flood sensor notifications from Apple HomeKit when the sensor is used with a Lyric Controller. HomeKit only provides detailed Lyric notifications regarding security sensors. A flood sensor is not a security sensor. That is why it is important to still use Total Connect 2.0 even if you start using Apple HomeKit with the system. The Total Connect 2.0 platform will provide you with specific notifications for any zone type.

Learning the 5808W3 into a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge teaches users how to add a 5808W3 Smoke and Heat Detector with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Security System. This smoke detector can only be added to IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems that support the 345 MHz wireless frequency. The 5808W3 provides reliable smoke and heat detection for a home or business. It can also be used for low temperature detection. A built-in 85 dB sounder is integrated with the sensor for alerting building occupants.

Products Supported on the Alarm.com Platform

Jorge explains which products are supported by the Alarm.com interactive service. To use Alarm.com, you will need a system with an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator. You will also need a Gold Plan or higher from Alarm Grid. By accessing Alarm.com, you can arm and disarm your system, check current system status, control smart home devices and more. You can access this service remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices.

Image Sensor and Alarm Panel Compatibility

Awesome Joe covers image sensor and alarm panel compatibility. Image sensors are like motion detecting sensors, except they also have a built-in camera. When an image sensor detects movement, it will produce a photo. This photo can be sent to an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. If you have the TC2 or ADC mobile app, you can get this image remotely. This is perfect for verifying if a crime or emergency is occurring in your home or business.

Hi DIYers! Have you activated your 3G or 4G cellular communicator yet? If not, you are running out of time. All 3G and 4G communicators must be activated by June 26, 2019 for AlarmNet and June 30, 2019 for Alarm.com. After that, it will no longer be possible to activate these modules.

This is your very last chance to purchase a 3G or 4G communicator. If you wait much longer, we won't be able to guarantee that it will arrive to your address in time for you to install and activate it. And if you are still sitting on a 3G or 4G communicator, the time to activate it is now. You should reach out to Alarm Grid as soon as possible to get started with monitoring service. The following plans will work for cellular communication - Gold, Self-Gold, Platinum, Self-Platinum, Cellular-Only. Please read this blog post for more information about our monitoring plans.

Alarm Grid is still holding a sale on the iGSMV4G Communicator and the iGSMV4G-TC2 Kit. These products are currently available for $50 and $60, respectively. Buying a iGSMV4G from Alarm Grid right now is a strong choice if you want to get a VISTA Series System connected for cellular monitoring service for a very affordable price. More information about this sale can be found in this recent blog post.

Keep in mind that deactivating a communicator and then reactivating it counts as activating. If you discontinue monitoring service at any time after June 26th for AlarmNet and Total Connect 2.0 or June 30th for Alarm.com, you will not be able to reactivate your old 3G or 4G communicator. This is something to consider if you expect that you may move or relocate your system sometime in the near future. At this time, it is no longer possible to activate a CDMA communicator.

Remember, a 3G, 4G, or CDMA communicator is only a temporary solution at this point. AT&T will be shutting down their 3G/4G cellular network in February 2022, and Verizon is expected to shutdown their CDMA network around this time as well. Any already-activated alarm monitoring communicator that connects with one of these cellular networks provide reliable monitoring service until that time. After that, it will be obsolete.

Getting a 3G or 4G communicator in the next few days for a quick activation is a viable option. However, the best option is to get an LTE cellular communicator for your system. Both AT&T and Verizon have stated that they will support their LTE networks for many years to come. An LTE cellular radio is the best way to ensure that your security system will receive fast and reliable monitoring service well into the very distant future. We have many LTE communicators available for purchase on our website.

If you need help choosing a communicator, or if you are trying to activate a communicator before the cut-off date, please contact us as soon as you can. The best way to get a hold of us is to email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our team will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond as soon as possible. If you would prefer to call us, we are available at (888) 818-7728. Remember that our business hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. You must schedule an activation during these hours. We look forward to hearing from you and activating your system for monitoring service.

Hi DIYers! We have a tip today that might seem obvious, but it is absolutely crucial to remember. Our tip for everyone is to protect their Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com information. This means not sharing your username or password with anyone who should not access your account or your home.

Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com both allow users to Arm and Disarm their systems from anywhere. Giving someone access to your TC2 or ADC account is basically the same as giving someone your system's Master Code. In fact, it can be even worse. If you use these services for smart home automation to control smart locks, then a hacked account is essentially a key to your home. An intruder won't even have to break open a window. They can unlock your door, Disarm your system, and walk right in.

It's not enough to just protect your TC2 and ADC username and password. You must also protect your associated email address and your phone. Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com allow users to reset their passwords through their email and text messages. A hacked email or stolen phone can also be a major concern for your security. We recommend using Touch ID and/or Facial Recognition on your phone if possible. This will help protect your account from a security breach in the event of a stolen phone.

One thing you can do is enable the "Prompt for User Code" feature on TC2. This feature requires that the associated user code is provided when you Arm or Disarm from your phone. If an intruder gets your login information, they won't be able to Arm or Disarm your system from the TC2 Website or App unless they also know your secret code. However, an intruder will be able to find this code if they gain access to your phone. Additionally, ADC does not offer this feature at this time.

If your TC2 or ADC account becomes compromised, or if your email is hacked or your phone is stolen, you should contact us immediately. Anyone who accesses your TC2 or ADC account can change your password to keep you out. But you will still have Alarm Grid on your side. Only you know your false alarm passcode, and only you can contact us to make changes to your account. We will make the necessary adjustments on the dealer's end of TC2 or ADC to ensure that your account is protected.

Remember, such data breaches can have very serious consequences. Always make sure to keep your account information safe. Never share your username, password or email account information with anyone who should not have access to your home. Only share it with individuals you absolutely trust. And if you aren't sure your information is safe, make sure to change your account password immediately. Contact us at support@alarmgrid.com ASAP if you experience any problems. We're here to help ensure that your home or business is always kept safe. Do your part and protect your information.

Choosing an alarm monitoring plan can feel overwhelming with options for central station service, self-monitoring, automation, and video surveillance. This guide explains Alarm Grid monitoring plans clearly so you can compare features and choose the service that fits your home or business.

What is Alarm Monitoring?

Alarm monitoring is a service that allows a security system to send signals when alarms, troubles, or other system events occur. Depending on the plan, those signals may go to a central monitoring station, an interactive service platform where it is forwarded to the end use, or both.

Without monitoring, a system can still sound sirens locally. But if you are away from the property, a local alarm may not be enough to alert you or request help.

Monitoring can provide off-site alerts, remote system control, and automatic emergency dispatch. Some centrally monitored customers may also qualify for a homeowner's insurance discount with a Certificate of Alarm.

What is a Central Monitoring Station?

A central monitoring station is a facility where trained dispatchers respond to incoming security system alarms and other signals. When an alarm signal is received, the dispatcher can see the alarm type and the location of the protected premises.

Alarm signals may include burglary, fire, medical, carbon monoxide, panic, and other emergency events. The dispatcher follows a set of instructions for the account, including attempting to contact the end user, before requesting dispatch, unless account notes or local rules require a different procedure.

In most cases, the central station will attempt to verify the alarm before dispatching authorities. The user may need to answer the phone and provide their false alarm passcode to cancel a false alarm.

If the user cannot be reached, or the user contacted cannot provide the correct false alarm passcode, or gives a duress code, the central station operator will request dispatch. Some areas may also have special rules, such as verified response requirements.

Alarm Grid customers in the United States who choose central station monitoring are connected with Criticom Monitoring Services. CMS operates three networked monitoring centers in Florida, New Jersey, and California. If one center is affected by a major event, signals can be rerouted to another center.

Our Canadian customers who choose central station monitoring have their signals sent to Rapid Response Monitoring Service. You can learn about Rapid Response in their own words: "Deploy the definition of multi-redundancy. Two bicoastal, hardened Command Centers and one secure, hosted Customer Care Center stand ready to serve you 24/7/365. Our headquarters Command Center, home to our original monitoring & data center, is based in Upstate NY. Our redundant Command Center, full-load capable monitoring & data center, is based in Southern California. Our operations branch out in a hub-and-spoke model to include our secure, hosted Customer Care Center in Southern Nevada".

In addition to their load sharing capabilities, Rapid Response also has impressive power capabilities: "Through our digitally-controlled CATERPILLAR diesel generators, Rapid Response has enough private power generation at each of our Command Centers to equivalently power 30 homes for 30 days. Power generation is ensured by months of on-site fuel storage in independent redundant tanks.

Electricity runs through multiple enterprise-scale UPS (uninterruptible power supply) battery banks with digital switching controls to eliminate gaps between grid failure and generator spinup. Combined with quad-bus wiring to every piece of equipment in our facilities, power failure is practically impossible."

What is Self-Monitoring?

Self-monitoring connects the system to an interactive service platform without connecting it to a central station. Instead of a dispatcher responding to alarms, the end user receives an alert via email or push notification and contacts the authorities if needed.

Self-monitoring is often used by customers who want app access and notifications, but do not need central station dispatch. It can also be useful for customers outside areas where central station service is available, and for customers in areas where verified response is required or where false alarm fees are high.

Self-monitoring does not provide a Certificate of Alarm. Because no central station is involved, it is less likely to qualify for a homeowner's insurance discount.

What is an Interactive Service Platform?

Interactive service platforms allow users to receive alerts, check system status, and control compatible systems remotely. Alarm Grid customers commonly use Total Connect 2.0, Alarm.com, or Telguard, depending on the system and communicator.

Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com can provide remote arming and disarming, text and email alerts, push notifications, Z-Wave automation, and video features. Available features depend on the monitoring plan and installed equipment.

Let's Discuss Monitoring Plans!

Alarm Grid monitoring plans are divided into Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers. Each tier has a central station version and a self-monitoring version.

Central station plans are often called Standard plans. These plans connect the system to a central monitoring station for emergency dispatch. Self-monitoring plans provide app access and alerts without central station dispatch. We also offer a plan for cellular alarm monitoring (central station monitoring via cellular with no app access), and one for video-only monitoring (video-only self monitoring with no alarm panel).

Each monitoring plan covers one security system. If you need monitoring for a second system or a second alarm control panel, you will need a separate monitoring plan.

Quick Plan Comparison

Bronze & Self-Bronze

The Bronze level is the most basic Alarm Grid monitoring tier. Standard Bronze provides central station monitoring using landline or internet communication. This plan offers NO ACCESS to an interactive service platform.

Self-Bronze provides basic interactive service without central station dispatch. It can support email, text, and push notifications to the end user, IP communication (WIFI or Ethernet), and remote arming or disarming on systems that support it. Self Bronze provides NO ACCESS to remote control of automation devices.

Bronze plans are best for customers who want basic monitoring or basic remote alerts at the lowest monthly cost. Standard Bronze is $15 per month, and Self-Bronze is $10 per month.

Silver & Self-Silver

Silver plans add interactive monitoring features and remote smart home automation. This level is a good choice for users who want to control their system from an app and manage compatible Z-Wave devices remotely.

Standard Silver includes central station monitoring, internet monitoring, remote arming and disarming, alerts, and remote home automation. Self-Silver provides interactive service and automation without central station dispatch.

Silver plans are best for compatible systems using internet communication where remote access and automation are important. Standard Silver is $25 per month, and Self-Silver is $15 per month.

Gold & Self-Gold

Gold plans add cellular communication. Cellular monitoring is generally more reliable than internet-only monitoring because it does not rely on the property's internet service.

Customers with compatible equipment can also use dual-path communication with both internet and cellular. This provides added redundancy when supported by the system and communicator.

Alarm.com service requires a monitoring plan that supports cellular communication. Customers using an Alarm.com-compatible system should expect to choose Gold, Self-Gold, Platinum, Self-Platinum, or another qualifying cellular plan.

Gold plans are a strong option for customers who want cellular reliability, Alarm.com service, or dual-path monitoring. Standard Gold is $35 per month, and Self-Gold is $25 per month.

Note: Alarm.com Image Sensor support may be available with compatible systems and services.

Platinum & Self-Platinum

Platinum plans add video surveillance features. These plans allow users to view compatible security cameras through Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

Video features may include live viewing, saved clips, and remote access through the appropriate mobile app. Available camera features depend on the selected service, installed cameras, and account settings.

Platinum plans are best for customers who want security monitoring, remote automation, cellular service, and video surveillance together. Standard Platinum is $45 per month, and Self-Platinum is $35 per month.

Other Monitoring Plans

Alarm Grid also offers alternative monitoring plans for customers who do not fit into the standard Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum structure. These include the Cellular-Only Plan and the Video-Only Plan.

The Cellular-Only Plan is similar to Standard Bronze, but it allows for cellular monitoring service. It connects the system to the central station without adding interactive service features such as app control, remote automation, or video.

This plan is useful for customers who want cellular reliability and central station dispatch, but do not need an interactive app. The Cellular-Only Plan is $25 per month.

The Video-Only Plan is for customers who only need video service through Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. A security system is not required for this plan.

Customers may also combine Video-Only service with another compatible monitoring plan to add cameras to an existing account. The Video-Only Plan is $15 per month.

Which Alarm Grid Plan Should I Choose?

Get Alarm Monitoring

The best way to sign up for Alarm Grid monitoring is to visit our alarm monitoring page and choose the plan that fits your system and needs.

If you need help deciding, email support@alarmgrid.com. You can also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular office hours of 9am to 8pm Eastern, Monday through Friday.

Our team will be happy to help you choose the right monitoring plan for your home or business.

Hi DIYers! We would like to recognize our friends at Qolsys for their success at ESX 2019 in Indianapolis, IN. The IQ Panel 2 Plus System won "Best in Show" in the TechVision Challenge. The system also won an Innovation Award in the Intrusion Systems category. Congratulations Qolsys!

The ESX Innovation Awards are designed to recognize innovation and excellence in the security industry. The awards are held annually at the Electronic Security Expo (ESX) in Indianapolis, IN. Judges select 25 winners of "Innovation Awards" in various categories. Of these 25 winners, a select few are invited in the prestigious "TechVision Challenge". A representative presents the product to a panel of judges and explains how it pushes the industry forward. The judges select a single "Best in Show" winner based on the presentations.

The IQ Panel 2 Plus System started the event by winning an Innovation Award in the category of Intrusion Systems. From there, the system was invited to participate in the TechVision Challenge. Thanks to their excellent presentation and the phenomenal features of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, Qolsys managed to take home the top prize of "Best in Show". This is the 2nd time Qolsys won these awards. The original IQ Panel 2 System also won "Best in Show" in the TechVision Challenge in 2016. This continued success demonstrates the abilities of Qolsys and the fantastic security systems they put out.

It's easy to see what separates the IQ Panel 2 Plus from the rest of the pack. The system supports 128 wireless zones and includes a built-in LTE cellular communicator (AT&T or Verizon) for connecting with Alarm.com. An integrated WIFI card allows for dual-path connectivity right out of the box. There is also a Z-Wave Plus (500 Series) controller for establishing a convenient and effective smart home network.

Other features include automatic Bluetooth disarming, the ability to livestream compatible Alarm.com Cameras, partitioning and facial recognition. End users also appreciate its sleek, modern design and its beautiful 7-inch display screen that makes it a joy to use everyday. Each IQ Panel 2 Plus supports PowerG Sensors and one legacy frequency. The 319.5 MHz version comes standard, but users can alternatively choose 345 MHz or 433 MHz.

The IQ Panel 2 Plus is available for purchase right now from the Alarm Grid website. It is great for pairing with Alarm Grid's monitoring service. You will need a Gold Plan or higher to activate the cellular communicator and get the system connected with Alarm.com. If you have any questions about the IQ Panel 2 Plus or about our monitoring service, please reach out to us at support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers. We have a relatively small video recap this time. Our team managed to make four (4) new videos. This includes three (3) from Jorge and one (1) from Jarrett. They are both ready and eager to help you learn your security system. Let's check out the new videos for this week.

Arming a Honeywell Alarm System Using Alexa

Jorge talks about how you can use Amazon Alexa to Arm your Honeywell Security System. This is made possible using Total Connect 2.0. You must open the Alexa App on your Android or iOS device and link your Total Connect 2.0 account. In order to use Total Connect 2.0, you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to the service. You can use Alexa to Arm Away, Arm Stay and activate TC2 smart scenes. You cannot use Alexa to Disarm your system.

Low Battery Supervision On The 2GIG TAKE-345

Jorge explains how if your 2GIG TAKE-345 has a low backup battery, then all the associated zones will show a low-battery trouble condition. The 2GIG TAKE-345 is a wired to wireless converter designed for use with 2GIG Security Panels. Hardwired sensors connect with the TAKE-345. The module then sends a 2GIG 345 MHz Signal to the panel. The system sees these sensors as wireless sensors. If the 2GIG TAKE-345 has a low battery, then the associated wireless zones will show low battery. You cannot use hardwired life-safety sensors with the TAKE-345.

Getting Power To The Lyric Security System

Jarrett teaches users how to power the Resideo Lyric Alarm System. The system receives primary power from a plug-in DC transformer. If the electricity goes out, a backup battery will keep it powered on. There are 4-hour and 24-hour backup battery options available. We recommend using a Honeywell LT-Cable to connect the panel to its transformer. You can also use 18-gauge, 2-conductor wire to complete the connection. The system will power off if it is not receiving plug-in or battery power.

Testing My Alarm Panel Through Alarm Grid

Jorge explains how Alarm Grid customers can test their security systems. We recommend testing your system monthly. You must test your system once per year to receive an updated certificate of alarm (CoA). By receiving a CoA from Alarm Grid, you can save money on your homeowner's insurance. You must always put your system on test mode before testing your system. You can put your system on test mode by contacting us, contacting our central station partner Criticom, or use the MyAlarms.com feature.

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that the Alarm Grid logo will now appear in the lower-left corner of downloaded Alarm.com video clips. This new feature applies to any Alarm Grid customer who uses Alarm.com Cameras for video surveillance. You should notice the logo effective immediately.

The Alarm Grid logo should appear in the bottom-left corner of any downloaded video clip from Alarm.com. This includes any video clip that you choose to share through email, text message or social media. Sharing the clip effectively downloads it. This will count towards your monthly limit of allowed clip downloads. The logo will be semi-transparent so that it is clearly visible, but does not obscure the video in any fashion.

We believe that this new addition will add a nice touch to Alarm.com video clips. It will also help to identify the source of the clip in the event that you ever need to present video evidence to the authorities. Other than this image, you should not notice any changes to your Alarm.com video clips or your Alarm.com service in general.

Please note that this image will not be present in the live video feed for Alarm.com Cameras. The logo will also not appear in clips you view directly from Alarm.com. It will only be present in downloaded video clips.

Below is an example of what the image should look like in a video clip:

If you do not have Alarm.com video surveillance included in your monitoring plan, you can check our monitoring page for more information. You will need a Platinum Plan to use Alarm.com Cameras. We also offer a standalone video surveillance plan if you want to use Alarm.com Security Cameras without regular monitoring service.

Please email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions about this new feature or the Alarm.com service in general. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728. Our regular office hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

DSC decided to extend the lifespan of their Impassa System by releasing a dual-path LTE communicator. The communicator is called the DSC TL8055LTVZ, and it is available for purchase right now from the Alarm Grid website. This is the first LTE communicator for the DSC Impassa Alarm System.

The DSC TL8055LTVZ provides connectivity with the Verizon LTE Network. It uses a hardwired ethernet connection for internet access. If one communication path goes down, the other will be there to back it up. The communicator will allow the system to connect with the Alarm.com Servers. Please note that you will need a Gold Plan or higher to activate the communicator and use it with Alarm.com.

In order to use the DSC TL8055LTVZ, your Impassa Panel must be running firmware version 1.3 or higher. This is the same firmware version required for an Impassa to use any cellular communicator and connect with Alarm.com. If you already have an Impassa System connected with Alarm.com, you can just swap out the old communicator for the new TL8055LTVZ. The system will provide normal operation after you activate the module.

At this time, Alarm Grid does not offer a standalone Impassa System with no communicator installed. We also do not offer an Impassa with a TL8055LTVZ already installed. We only recommend the DSC TL8055LTVZ for customers with an existing Impassa who want to extend the lifespan for their system. With LTE connectivity, the TL8055LTVZ will ensure that your Impassa can stay monitored for many years to come.

If you are looking for a new Alarm.com Security System, then we recommend going with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus instead. This is a state-of-the-art security system that offers all the features and functions you could ever want. You might also consider waiting for the new 2GIG GC2e and GC3e Systems, which we expect to be available later this summer. However, if you have an existing Impassa, then the DSC TL8055LTVZ is for you.

Additionally, Alarm Grid is also now offering the DSC WS4933 Wireless Carbon Monoxide Sensor. The device uses electro-chemical sensing technology to detect odorless and tasteless carbon monoxide (CO) gas. This sensor features a slim-line design and a built-in 85dB sounder. It comes equipped with a test button and a low-battery indicator. It uses a single CR123A battery for power. The device has an average battery life of five (5) years with typical use. It is available for purchase now.

If you have any questions or concerns about the DSC WS4933 or the DSC TL8055LTVZ, please email us at 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 your questions.