Alarm Systems Posts

Alarm Grid is excited to introduce the Alarm.com ADC-V530, a next-gen indoor camera designed to rethink privacy, visibility, and control. With powerful analytics, built in spotlight, and a unique privacy shield, this camera delivers smarter awareness without compromising your peace of mind.

Alarm.com ADC-V530 shown with the LED on:

The ADC-V530 is not just another indoor camera. It tackles one of the biggest concerns people have always had with indoor video: privacy. Instead of just turning the camera on or off, this model includes an Automatic Privacy Shield that can physically block the lens when the system is disarmed or based on custom scenes and schedules. It is a big step forward, giving users real, visible control and peace of mind.

That privacy control goes even further with a physical button right on the camera. A quick tap opens or closes the shutter instantly, so you always know exactly when the camera can and cannot see. Even better, this works even if the camera is offline, so you are never dependent on an app or connection to maintain your personal privacy.

ADC-V530 Shown with the privacy shutter closed:

The reset (🔄) button, located on the back of the camera housing, is used to manually control the privacy shutter. Manual control is available as long as the camera has power. To toggle the shutter between open and closed, quickly press and release the button. This is the same button used to factory reset the camera. If the button is pressed and held for ten (10) seconds, a factory reset will begin. So, be careful when manually controlling the shutter.

A few things to keep in mind: if the privacy shutter is manually closed, it must also be manually opened. Automation schedules or system events will not change the shutter’s position once it has been manually set. If the camera loses power, the shutter will remain in its last position when power is restored.

Of course, privacy is only part of what makes this camera stand out. The ADC-V530 delivers sharp 4MP HDR video with a wide 110 degree field of view. That means clearer images in both bright and low light conditions, making it easier to see what is really happening inside your home.

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, is what helps the camera handle both very bright and very dark areas at the same time. Instead of losing detail in shadows or having bright spots get washed out, HDR balances the image so you can see everything more clearly. This is especially helpful indoors when sunlight is coming through a window, keeping faces and important details easy to make out.

The built in LED spotlight adds another layer of awareness that many indoor cameras simply do not have. It can brighten up a dark space or draw attention to unexpected activity, helping make sure nothing slips by unnoticed. It can also act as a deterrent, letting would-be burglars know they're being watched.

You also get full duplex two way audio, which makes conversations feel natural instead of awkward or delayed. Whether you are checking in on family, talking to a visitor, or addressing something unexpected, communication is smooth and immediate.

Where this camera really shines is in its smart video analytics. It can tell the difference between a person and general motion, which helps cut down on annoying false alerts. Pair that with the Smart View timeline, and you can quickly jump to important moments like when a person is detected or a door is accessed. And with onboard recording enabled (MicroSD card required), you can also scroll through continuous footage instead of being limited to just event-activated clips.

When it comes to storage, the ADC-V530 brings some welcome improvements. It supports encrypted onboard recording with a microSD card, along with SVR options. That means your important video is still preserved even if your network goes down, solving a common frustration with cloud-only cameras.

Setup is also flexible and straightforward. The camera supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WIFI, and you can even use Ethernet if you want a more stable connection. It is designed to fit into just about any installation without hassle.

Features like Perimeter Guard and manual warning sounds also help you take action when it matters. Instead of just recording what happens, the camera gives you tools to respond in real time.

Overall, the Alarm.com ADC-V530 feels like a smart step forward for indoor cameras. It focuses on what users actually care about, like privacy, smarter alerts, and better control. If you are looking to upgrade your system, this is definitely a camera to be excited about.

For Alarm Grid customers, a Platinum Plan (Self or Full) or a Video Monitoring account is needed to use the Alarm.com ADC-V530. If you have questions about this, or any Alarm.com camera, our support team is available from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday - Friday. You can also visit our website to chat with a live support agent Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

Resideo has announced that the VISTA-21iP and VISTA-21iPLT control panels will be discontinued for sale in the U.S. and Canada effective May 1, 2026. These panels are not compatible with modern LTE cellular networks, making them unsuitable for new installations moving forward.

According to the notice, this discontinuation is limited specifically to the VISTA-21iP and VISTA-21iPLT models. Other VISTA hybrid panels are not affected and will remain available. However, dealers are advised to stop installing these legacy panels in the U.S. and Canada and begin transitioning to LTE-ready alternatives.

For new system installations, Resideo recommends using the VISTAH3 or the VISTA-21IPLTE. These panels are designed to support LTE cellular communication and align with current carrier requirements. There is also a Canadian version of the VISTAH3, known as the VISTAH3CN, though it is not offered by Alarm Grid.

You can view the recommended alternative panels here:

• Resideo VISTAH3
• Honeywell VISTA-21IPLTE

At Alarm Grid we always recommend dual-path communication for your alarm panel, even though we offer monitoring plans that allow for IP-only monitoring. So, when upgrading to one of these panels, we recommend that you also select a compatible LTE cellular communicator.

Alarm Grid offers options such as the Honeywell Home PROLTE-A2 and PROLTE-V2, both of which are designed to work with supported VISTA and PRO Series systems and provide reliable cellular connectivity.

Shop LTE communicators here:

• Honeywell Home PROLTE-A2
• Honeywell Home PROLTE-V2
• Honeywell LTE-21V

The key takeaway is that LTE compatibility is now essential for any new security system installation. Even if you do not plan to add a cellular communicator today, selecting a system that supports LTE gives you the flexibility to upgrade in the future without replacing your panel.

By moving to a VISTAH3 or VISTA-21IPLTE panel paired with an LTE communicator, users can ensure continued service and avoid issues tied to outdated cellular technologies and internet outages.

If you are still using a VISTA-21iP system or planning a new installation, now is the time to make the switch. Explore the recommended replacements from Alarm Grid to find the right solution for your installation.

If you need help, reach out to our support team at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time. You can also visit our website and chat with a live support agent (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Eastern Time) or call us at 888-818-7728.

At Alarm Grid, we believe customers should have the freedom to purchase alarm equipment from the source that works best for them. That includes third-party distributors, online marketplaces, and even other end users.

We do not discourage customers from bringing their own equipment. However, it is important to understand that purchasing equipment outside of Alarm Grid can come with certain risks.

One of the most common issues involves used or outdated equipment. While a device may power on and appear functional, it could have hidden problems. Sensors may have reduced battery life, keypads could show excessive wear, and communicators might not perform as expected. In some cases, equipment may be damaged, outdated, or missing critical components.

We have also encountered activation issues with older LTEM-P, LTEM-PX, and IP-COM communicators purchased through third-party sellers. Some older stock did not receive a required critical firmware update and can no longer be serviced. Units with MAC addresses beginning with B82CA0, typically manufactured around 2020 or 2021, and some beginning with 48A2E6, may be affected. Even if these communicators are new in box, they may not be capable of activation.

Another serious concern is account association. Many alarm communicators are registered to an AlarmNet or Alarm.com account. If a used communicator was previously installed and removed during an upgrade, it may automatically attempt to re-register to the original account.

When that happens, the communicator ties back to the previous dealer or seller. If they do not release it, we cannot activate or service the unit. In some cases, the only options are to convince the seller to release the device or purchase a new communicator, which can delay monitoring by days.

Before purchasing from a third party, confirm the seller has a clear return policy. Verify that the communicator firmware is current and that it does not have a B82CA0 or 48A2E6 MAC prefix. Whenever possible, purchase newer equipment from a reputable distributor or retailer.

If you already have a communicator, and you suspect it may be affected by this issue, do not connect it to a wired network before activation. Immediately after powering it up, press and hold the test or registration button for 30 seconds, then release it to default the unit. Completing this step prior to your activation appointment can help prevent registration conflicts.

Ultimately, the simplest way to avoid these issues is to purchase new equipment from a trusted source. When a communicator is purchased through Alarm Grid and found to be defective, we can typically process a replacement in less than 24 hours, helping to minimize downtime.

Alarm Grid is here to support our current and future monitored customers, no matter where you purchase your equipment. We simply want you to begin the process informed and prepared. Our team is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. If you have questions, reach out to us by email at support@alarmgrid.com or by phone at 888-818-7728. You can also use the live chat feature available on our website at alarmgrid.com.

Happy New Year 2026 From Alarm Grid!

As we prepare to ring in 2026, we want to take a moment to thank all of our customers for another wonderful year. Whether you have been with us for years or just set up your first system last week, we are grateful for your trust and your patience when things get complicated. We could not do this without you, and we cannot wait to head into the new year with you.

Before we get into the festivities, here are our holiday hours. Support team, this affects you…

New Year's Eve (Wednesday, December 31st): Support available until 3:00 PM Eastern Time.

New Year's Day (Thursday, January 1st): Office closed.

Friday, January 2nd: Back to normal at 9:00 AM Eastern Time.

Support team, if you're still reading: Surprise! You are leaving early today. No, you did not miss a memo. There was no memo. This is the memo. Take the W and go home. You have spent all year helping customers, you're the main driver of our success. Thank you for another great year!

Monitoring Station Contact Information

Even while our offices are closed, professional monitoring continues without interruption. Our central station partners at Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS) and Rapid Response are open 24/7/365 and will continue monitoring alarms and dispatching help exactly as they always do.

If you need to contact the monitoring station during the holiday, to report a false alarm or to place your system on test mode, please use the appropriate number below:

US Customers with Full Monitoring Plans:

Call CMS at (888) 818-7728 and press Option [9]. Be sure to have your name, address, and false alarm password ready when the operator answers.

Canadian Customers with Full Monitoring Plans:

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

It is very important that you provide the correct password to the monitoring station operator. If you give an incorrect password when asked, or if you provide your Duress password, the monitoring station will dispatch emergency services, as designed.

If You Need Technical Support, Email Us!

The monitoring station can only assist with alarm-related events and emergencies, or system tests. They cannot help with technical support, programming questions, or account changes such as zone names or contact lists.

For those needs, email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will respond as quickly as possible once the office reopens on Friday. Please note that there may be a brief backlog after the holiday, and we greatly appreciate your patience while we clear it. If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you have a more pressing issue give us a call at (888) 818-7728.

New Year's Eve Safety Reminder

If you are heading out to celebrate tonight, remember to arm your security system before you leave. Whether you are going to a party, watching fireworks, staying in for a quiet night, or spending two and a half hours watching the Stranger Things series finale and hoping the Duffer Brothers stick the landing, taking a few seconds to arm your system can give you peace of mind as you welcome the new year.

The Upside Down is not real, but burglars are.

Happy New Year!

Thank you for being a part of the Alarm Grid family. We are grateful for your trust and support throughout 2025, and we look forward to helping you stay safe and secure in 2026. Here is to a happy, healthy, and safe new year for everyone!

The holiday season is here, and we want to wish everyone a safe and happy season. Alarm Grid support offices will be closed Wednesday, December 24th and Thursday, December 25th, 2025. Our office will reopen Friday, December 26th at 9:00 AM Eastern Time.

During this time, Alarm Grid's super star support staff will be enjoying a well-deserved break to spend time with their loved ones. Even while our offices are closed, professional monitoring continues without interruption. If you have opted for full central station monitoring, your security system remains protected around the clock. That is, as long as you remember to arm it!

Monitoring Station Contact Information

Our central station partners at Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS) and Rapid Response are open 24/7/365 and will continue monitoring alarms and dispatching help exactly as they always do, unless you have provided them with specific instructions to the contrary.

If you need to contact the monitoring station during the holiday to report a false alarm or to place your system on test mode, please use the appropriate number below:

US Customers:

Call CMS at (888) 818-7728 and press Option [9]. Be sure to have your name, address, and false alarm password ready when the operator answers.

Canadian Customers:

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

It is very important that you provide the correct password. If an incorrect password or your Duress password is given, the monitoring station will dispatch emergency services, as designed.

If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you need Technical Support – Email Us Instead

The monitoring station can only assist with alarm-related events and emergencies or system tests. They cannot help with technical support, programming questions, or account changes such as zone names or contact lists.

For those needs, email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will respond as quickly as possible once the office reopens. Please note that there may be a brief backlog after the holiday, and we greatly appreciate your patience while we catch up.

Holiday Travel Reminder

If you are traveling for the holidays, please be sure to arm your security system before you leave. It is also a good idea to double-check that you know your false alarm password ahead of time. A few minutes of preparation can prevent stress while you are away from home.

Happy Holidays!

Thank you for being a part of the Alarm Grid family. Whether you are traveling, hosting family, relaxing at home, or working through the holiday, we wish you a safe, peaceful, and happy Christmas and Hannukkah season!

Z-Wave has come a long way since its introduction in the early 2000s. From the original standard to Z-Wave Plus and Z-Wave Plus V2, each generation brings meaningful improvements to range, battery life, and performance. Now, Z-Wave 800-Series represents the most significant leap forward yet.

The Evolution of Z-Wave

To understand what makes the 800-Series special, it helps to look at how Z-Wave has evolved over the years.

The original Z-Wave protocol established the foundation for mesh networking in home automation, allowing devices to communicate with each other and extend the network's reach. Z-Wave Plus (500-Series) arrived around 2013 and brought improvements including 50% better range, 250% longer battery life, and faster processing speeds compared to the original standard.

Z-Wave Plus V2 (700-Series), released in 2018, pushed the boundaries further with additional range improvements, enhanced security through S2 encryption, and SmartStart functionality that simplified device pairing. The 700-Series became the go-to choice for premium smart home devices and earned a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

What Makes Z-Wave 800-Series Different

The Z-Wave 800-Series, built on Silicon Labs' latest chipset technology, takes everything that worked well in previous generations and improves upon it significantly. Here's what sets it apart:

Extended Range

The 800-Series delivers up to 1.5 miles of range in open air with Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) mode. While real-world performance in homes will vary based on walls, interference, and building materials, this represents a massive improvement over previous generations. For large homes, outbuildings, or properties with detached garages, this extended range can eliminate the need for additional repeaters.

Faster Communication

With improved RF performance and optimized protocols, 800-Series devices communicate more efficiently. Commands execute faster, and the mesh network responds more quickly to changes. This translates to snappier control when you're turning on lights, locking doors, or adjusting thermostats.

Better Battery Life

Battery-powered devices like door sensors, motion detectors, and smart locks benefit from the 800-Series' improved power efficiency. Manufacturers report battery life improvements that can extend the time between battery changes by months or even years in some applications.

Enhanced Security

Building on the S2 security framework introduced with Z-Wave Plus V2, the 800-Series includes hardware-level security features that make it even more resistant to tampering and unauthorized access. All Z-Wave 800 devices support S2 authentication out of the box, ensuring encrypted communication throughout your smart home network.

Backward Compatibility

One of Z-Wave's greatest strengths has always been backward compatibility, and the 800-Series continues this tradition. Your existing Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus devices will work with 800-Series controllers and hubs. This means you can upgrade your system gradually without replacing every device at once.

Z-Wave Long Range Support

Perhaps the most exciting addition is native support for Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR). This new mode allows point-to-point communication over much greater distances than traditional mesh networking. While standard Z-Wave mesh mode remains available for dense installations, ZWLR opens new possibilities for properties where devices are spread across larger areas.

Security Panels That Support Advanced Z-Wave Features

If you're looking to build a smart home system around a modern security panel, several options from Alarm Grid support Z-Wave for home automation control. These panels integrate security monitoring with Z-Wave device management, allowing you to control locks, lights, thermostats, and other smart devices from a single interface.

IQ Panel 4

The IQ Panel 4 represents IQ's (formerly Qolsys) latest generation of touchscreen security panels. It features built-in Z-Wave support for home automation along with PowerG sensor compatibility for long-range wireless security. The panel's 7" HD touchscreen makes it easy to manage both security and smart home functions from one central location. The IQ Panel 4 must be on version 4.4.0+ to support Z-Wave Long Range.

The IQ Panel 4 is available in multiple configurations:

• IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/345 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/345 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/433 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/433 MHz
  IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/319.5 MHz
  IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/319.5 MHz

2GIG Edge

The 2GIG Edge is a sleek, modern security panel that combines a compact design with powerful features. It includes Z-Wave support for home automation devices and offers advanced capabilities like facial recognition for touchless disarming. In order to support Z-Wave Long Range, the panel must be on firmware version 3.1.3.011+.

Available versions include:

• 2GIG Edge AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge Verizon LTE

Honeywell Home ProSeries PROA7PLUS

The First Alert PROA7 and PROA7PLUS are professional-grade security panels with optional Z-Wave support. Out of the box, they support ProSeries encrypted wireless sensors. With the addition of a PROTAKEOVER module, they can also support many legacy wireless sensors, and when you install the PROWIFIZW module, the system adds WIFI connectivity and support for Z-Wave home automation devices. When paired with Total Connect 2.0, you can arm, disarm, and control compatible devices remotely through the app.

At this time, the PROWIFIZW does not take full advantage of everything Z-Wave 800-Series offers, including Z-Wave Long Range. Thanks to Z-Wave’s backward compatibility, 800-Series devices will still work, but they’ll behave more like 700-Series devices when used with this controller. You still get solid Z-Wave performance today, and if Resideo updates the platform in the future, these newer devices should be well-positioned to benefit.

Options include:

• First Alert PROA7PLUS
• First Alert PROA7
• PROLTE-A2 - AT&T LTE Communicator
• PROLTE-V2 - Verizon LTE Communicator
• PROTAKEOVER Module
• PROWIFIZW WIFI & Z-Wave Module

2GIG GC Touch

The 2GIG GC Touch is another excellent option that combines security and smart home control. With its 7" high-resolution display and Z-Wave gateway functionality, the GC Touch provides a comprehensive solution that includes home security, home automation, energy management, and emergency monitoring.

Available in:

• 2GIG GC Touch AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC Touch Verizon LTE

Compatible Z-Wave Devices

When building out your Z-Wave network, you'll find a wide variety of compatible devices available. Popular categories include:

Smart Locks – Z-Wave deadbolts and lever locks from manufacturers like Yale, Schlage, and Kwikset allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely, create temporary access codes, and receive notifications when doors are locked or unlocked.

Smart Lighting – In-wall switches, dimmers, and plug-in modules let you control lighting throughout your home. Many users create scenes that turn on lights when the system disarms or turn off all lights when arming at night.

Thermostats – Z-Wave thermostats like the Honeywell T6 Pro integrate with your security system to provide energy savings. You can automatically adjust temperatures based on whether the system is armed or disarmed.

Garage Door Controllers – Z-Wave garage door controllers let you open, close, and monitor your garage door status from anywhere. Get alerts if the garage door is left open or automatically close it when arming your system.

Water Valves – Smart water valves can automatically shut off your main water supply if a leak is detected, helping prevent costly water damage. This is a perfect example of how automation, working in conjunction with an alarm system, can save you money and prevent messy cleanup.

Making the Switch to Z-Wave 800

If you're starting fresh with a new smart home installation, choosing Z-Wave 800-Series devices whenever possible makes sense. You'll get the best performance, longest battery life, and most advanced security features available.

For those with existing Z-Wave networks, there's no need to rush out and replace everything. Backward compatibility means your current devices will continue to work as you gradually add 800-Series products. Over time, as you replace older devices, your network will naturally evolve to take advantage of the latest technology.

When shopping for Z-Wave devices, look for the Z-Wave 800 or "800-Series" designation on product packaging and specifications. As more manufacturers release 800-Series products, the selection continues to grow across all device categories.

Getting Started

Whether you're building a new smart home from scratch or expanding an existing system, Z-Wave 800-Series technology provides a reliable, secure, and responsive foundation for home automation.

Ready to see what Z-Wave can do for your home? Browse our selection of Z-Wave compatible products and security systems that support home automation. If you’re not sure which panel or devices are right for your situation, our support team is happy to help.

You can call us at 888-818-7728 during our support hours of 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday – Friday, or send an email to support@alarmgrid.com.

Resideo announced this week that the 6148 keypad family is discontinued upon stock exhaustion. The official technical notification confirms that the 6148, 6148ICON, 6148EX, and 6148SP are all going away. If you need a similar, budget-friendly alternative look no further than the 6150.

The 6148 was never a glamorous keypad. It didn't have a touchscreen. It didn't talk to you. It was just a simple, reliable Fixed English keypad that did exactly what it was supposed to do. And honestly, that's what made it great.

The 6148 was the kind of keypad you could explain to your grandmother over the phone. You pressed buttons, the system responded, and that was that. No learning curve. No software updates. No wondering if the display would freeze. Back when touchscreens were still a novelty, most homeowners just wanted something that worked. The 6148 worked.

The 6148ICON was the same idea but with pictures instead of words. Little icons showed you what each button did. Some installers loved it. Others thought it was unnecessary. But it found its audience with customers who preferred visual cues over text.

The 6148EX added a tamper switch, which made it popular for commercial installations where someone might try to mess with the keypad. The 6148SP served Spanish-speaking customers. Each version filled a specific need in the market.

Now they're all going away because that's how this industry works. Parts become obsolete. Manufacturing priorities shift. Products that served us well for years eventually reach the end of their run.

The good news is that Resideo has recommended solid replacements. The Honeywell 6150 Fixed English Keypad takes over for the 6148, 6148ICON, and 6148EX. It has the same Fixed English display and basic functions, plus four dedicated function keys for quick arming and emergency buttons. The only thing missing is the tamper feature from the 6148EX, so keep that in mind if tamper protection matters to your installation.

For the 6148SP, Resideo suggests upgrading to the First Alert VISTAH3 system with the VISTAHPKP or VISTAHLKP keypads. These offer Spanish and Portuguese language support on a 2x16 alpha display.

If you're still running 6148 keypads on your VISTA system, now is the time to think about stocking up or planning your upgrade. Once the remaining inventory is gone, it's gone for good.

It's strange to get sentimental about a keypad. But the 6148 represents an era of alarm products that valued simplicity and reliability above all else. No apps. No cloud connections. Just a keypad on the wall that lets you arm and disarm your system. There's something to be said for that.

The alarm industry keeps moving forward. Panels get smarter. Keypads get touchscreens. Everything connects to the internet. That's progress, and it's mostly good. But every now and then, when a product like the 6148 gets discontinued, I think about how far we've come and what we've left behind along the way.

If you have questions about replacing your 6148 keypads or need help choosing the right option for your VISTA system, reach out to us at Alarm Grid. The best way to reach us is at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM EST Monday - Friday and we're happy to help you navigate the transition. Check out our alarm monitoring plans while you're at it.

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

Monitoring Station Contact Information

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

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

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

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

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

For Technical Support - Email Us Instead

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

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

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

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

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

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

Important: Carbon Monoxide Alarms

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!

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

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

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

2GIG GC Touch:

Quick overview

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

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

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

Upgrading & Compatibility

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

Features vs. 2GIG Edge

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

Installation & Troubleshooting

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

General & Smart Home

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

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

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

If you own a Lyric system and have not already done so, please read this important update regarding AlarmNet360 changes that affect your panel. It may be time for an update!

Back in 2019 we told you about the Lyric Gateway's end-of-life. Recently we found that an unregistered Lyric Gateway can't be activated. This is because of a disconnect between AlarmNet360, the platform used to register, and the panel. If you have a registered Gateway, you are not affected.

Since the Lyric Gateway hasn't been available since 2019, this is likely not an issue that will affect a lot of people. But, since the secondary market for alarm panels is alive and well on platforms like ebay, and because the Lyric Gateway can't be programmed through the panel's touchscreen, it's still necessary to get this information out there.

When Resideo discontinues a product, they continue to fully support that product for five (5) years, then it moves to limited support. That means Resideo will only provide written documentation for the product to anyone requesting support. They will not provide over-the-phone troubleshooting.

Between 2019 and now, if we had an issue with a Lyric Gateway not registering properly, we could contact Resideo technical support and they would assist with the registration. Their support team has access to tools that we don't and can resolve some issues with registration that we can't. However, now that the Gateway has entered limited support, Resideo tech support will no longer offer this assistance.

So, if you see a Lyric Gateway for sale in some secondary marketplace, we recommend you give it a pass. If you have an unregistered Lyric Gateway with any SIX Sensors paired with it, you'll need to take special steps to keep those sensors viable for use with a new panel.

1. Be sure sensors are powered on. Be sure that every SIX sensor that is paired with the Gateway panel is powered on and within range of the panel.
2. Default the Lyric Gateway When you're ready to move the SIX sensors to a new First Alert PROA7, PROA7PLUS, or VISTAH3 panel, remove the set screw in the bottom edge of the panel, then either pull the rear cover off, or pull the panel away from the rear cover (if wall mounted). This will expose the battery, RJ45 port, and the microswitches on the back of the panel.
   • For Rev. 1.00 panels, reboot the panel. To do so, using a paper clip or similar small tool, depress the center microswitch on the back of the panel (see image below) until the panel reboots. Once the panel boots back up, you have five (5) minutes to complete the default. Otherwise, you'll need to reboot again.
   • For Rev. 1.01.0215.531+ you can skip the power cycle and move straight to Step 3.
3. Perform the default. On the rear of the panel, just below the RJ45 Ethernet port you'll see three microswitches. As you face the back of the panel use a small tool, paper clip, or similar item to press and hold down the left switch for twenty seconds, or until the panel prompts you to enter the Installer Code. After twenty seconds, or once prompted for the Installer Code, release the switch. If prompted for the code enter the panel's current Installer Code. This will set the panel back to factory defaults. As part of the default, a signal will be sent from the panel to all SIX sensors releasing them so that they are no longer paired. All SIX sensors previously programmed with the panel that receive this message are now free to be paired with a new panel.

Any paired SIX sensor that doesn't receive a release signal from the panel, either by the sensor being removed via AlarmNet360 or by defaulting the panel, will be unable to pair with a new panel.