Alarm Systems Posts

The DSC HS2TCHP(N) touchscreen keypad can work with a Qolsys IQ Pro, but only after a software update. Keypads running version 1.39 or lower need new interface files first, and you can get them from our HS2TCHP firmware updates page.

The update is a quick job. It takes an SD card, a few minutes, and no new hardware.

Why the HS2TCHP(N) Needs an Update

The HS2TCHP(N) was made for DSC PowerSeries NEO systems. Its touchscreen software, called the user interface or UI, is written for a NEO panel. The IQ Pro needs a different UI. Until the keypad gets the new firmware files, it is not ready to be used with an IQ Pro.

Check the part number on your keypad before you start. If it says HS2TCHPRO and runs version 1.40 or higher, the touchscreen will not work on an IQ Pro. The update is only for the HS2TCHP(N) at version 1.39 or lower.

When Does This Comes Up?

The most likely reason is a panel swap. Say a home has a NEO system with HS2TCHP(N) keypads already mounted on the walls. The owner decides to switch to an IQ Pro. The wiring is already in place, so reusing those keypads saves money and a lot of work. The update is what makes that possible.

There is one catch. Once a keypad has been updated for the IQ Pro, it cannot go back to a NEO control panel. Do not update a keypad that still needs to work on a NEO system. If you are still running a NEO panel, we show you how to add an HS2TCHP to a PowerSeries NEO panel in a separate guide.

How to Update the Keypad

The update uses an SD card. Download the files from the firmware page linked above and unzip them. There are three files, and all three go in the root directory of a blank SD card. Format the card as FAT32 first, and use a card with a capacity of 32 GB or less.

Next, slide the card into the bottom of the keypad. On the touchscreen, tap the Options icon, then Installer Menu. Enter the IQ Pro Installer or Dealer Code (defaults 1111 or 2222 respectively). Tap Keypad Programming, tap Firmware Upgrade, and follow the prompts to finish. When it is done, the keypad shows the "IQPanel" logo in the top right corner instead of the "DSC" logo.

Do not pull the keypad off its backplate while the SD card is inside. That can damage the card slot. For the manufacturer’s full notice, see the HS2TCHP(N) touchscreen keypad update instructions.

Connecting the Keypad to the IQ Pro

An IQ Pro can support up to 16 keypads. They connect to the panel over the Corbus, which is a four-wire connection. Here are the basics:

• Match the colors. Connect the keypad’s red, black, yellow, and green terminals to the corresponding Corbus terminals on the IQ Pro board.
• Use the right wire size. Use 18 - 22 gauge 4-conductor wire. Two twisted pairs are recommended. Do not use shielded wire.
• Watch the distance. Keypads can sit up to 1,000 feet from the panel. They can be home run, wired in series, or T-tapped.
• Power comes last. Keep the panel’s battery and power adapter disconnected until all the wiring is done.
• Enable keypad. Once the keypad is connected, you'll need the IQ Installer App, available for free from the Apple and Google stores, to enable the keypad, assign partitions if necessary, and set any other keypad options.

Each keypad also has a zone input, so you can hook up a wired sensor, like a door contact, right at the keypad. It works with normally closed loops, single end of line resistors, and double end of line resistors. To turn the input on or off, go to Installation, then Devices, then Security Sensors. Pick the enrolled keypad, tap Edit, and choose Keypad Input. Then select Enable or Disable. For all the details, check the IQ Pro install guide.

Need Keypads or Monitoring?

If you're updating your panel and you're interested in a new monitoring plan to go with it, check out our no-contract monitoring options. We don't charge activation fees, and you can cancel at any time. Need another keypad for your project? Browse our PowerG keypads and the IQ Remote PowerG touchscreen keypad.

Need Help?

Stuck on the update or the wiring? Our support team is happy to help. Phone and email support are open from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern. Call us at 888-818-7728 or email support@alarmgrid.com. Live chat on our website is also available until 6:00 PM Eastern.

Verizon recently asked the FCC for permission to retire copper landline phone service in as many as 18 states. However, after heavy public pushback, the FCC paused automatic approval, and Verizon has started telling some individual customers their copper line isn’t going anywhere just yet.

Nothing about this is settled. Here we'll discuss how we got here, why the process stalled, where things stand, and action you can take.

A Quick Timeline

Why Does Verizon Want to Retire Copper Landlines?

Verizon’s copper network is old, and it’s only getting more expensive to keep running. The company says the copper lines are more prone to failure in bad weather, are a target for metal theft, and are increasingly hard to repair since replacement parts are difficult to find. Verizon has framed the shift as freeing up money currently spent maintaining copper so it can be put toward newer infrastructure, in line with the FCC’s broader push to modernize phone and broadband networks nationwide.

To be clear, Verizon isn’t proposing to cut customers off with nothing. The company says no one will lose service until a reliable alternative, like fiber or a cellular home phone replacement, is actually available to them.

Why Is This On Hold?

The filings were on track for automatic approval once their FCC deadlines passed, with the first hitting September 26, 2026. Instead, the FCC confirmed it was pausing automatic approval after a wave of public comments came in. Rural residents with spotty cell coverage, retirees who rely on a landline for medical alerts, consumer groups, phone-company labor unions, and at least one state lawmaker all weighed in. Their argument: cutting copper service too fast could leave people without a reliable way to call for help.

The FCC’s public comment docket remains open, and dozens of comments have already been filed by residents in New York’s Catskill region, western Massachusetts, and elsewhere. On top of the formal FCC process, Verizon has also been responding directly to specific communities that offered pushback. In Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, a company spokesperson said Verizon wants to make sure no customer is left behind. In Little Compton, Rhode Island, Verizon told state lawmakers it won’t end copper service there until fiber actually reaches the town.

Where Things Stand Now

As of this post, Verizon’s FCC filings are still pending, not withdrawn. The plan to retire copper landlines hasn’t been canceled, just delayed. There’s currently no new target date to replace the original October 23 and November 30, 2026 approval deadlines. Verizon seems to be handling the pushback on a community-by-community basis, instead of scrapping the plan everywhere at once. That’s why two neighbors in the same state might get different answers, depending on whether fiber or another alternative communication method has reached their specific area yet.

How to Make Your Voice Heard

If you or someone you know still depends on a Verizon copper landline, you have a few options:

1. File a public comment with the FCC. The agency’s Electronic Comment Filing System lets anyone submit a comment on a pending application. The relevant docket number should be available on your Verizon notice letter, if you received one.
2. Contact your state or local elected officials. Several of the pauses and clarifications so far followed direct pressure from lawmakers, not just the FCC process itself.
3. Hold onto any letter Verizon sends you. It will usually include a timeline and a docket number specific to your area, which you’ll want on hand if you file a comment or call in with questions.

What This Means If Your Alarm System Uses a Phone Line

If your security system still connects over a POTS phone line, don’t wait on Verizon’s final word before making a plan. The review is open-ended, but copper phone lines are being phased out nationwide regardless of this specific fight, and a phone line going down with no backup means your system can’t communicate with the monitoring station at all.

Switching to cellular monitoring is the most reliable upgrade path for most homes, since it doesn’t depend on a copper line or your home internet staying up. Alarm Grid carries LTE cellular communicators for most major panel brands, and we’re happy to help you figure out which one fits your existing system.

Not sure where to start, or want help picking the right communicator for your panel? Give us a call at 888-818-7728 (Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 8 PM ET) or email support@alarmgrid.com. If you prefer, you can chat with a live agent by visiting our website (chat available 9 AM - 6 PM ET.) We’ll help you make a plan before your copper phone line becomes nothing but a memory.

So, you typed a security question into Google and ended up on a forum from 2009 where "TechDad47" suggested you "just unplug it and plug it back in." Well, now there's a better way. Google has a feature called preferred sources. It lets you mark trusted sites so their results show up first.

What Are Preferred Sources and How Do They Work?

Preferred sources is a Google Search feature that lets you handpick up to three websites you trust. Once added, Google gives those sites priority placement in your results, sitting at or near the top with a small label identifying them as a source you follow.

It's not a filter and it's not a blocker. Other websites still show up. Google just puts your preferred sources toward the top so you find what you want faster. If your preferred source doesn't have content matching your search, Google returns normal results with no harm done. The setting lives in your Google account, so you can add it once on your laptop and it works on your phone, your tablet, even your smart fridge! Anywhere you're signed into your Google account it will work.

Here's How to Set It Up

Step 1: Open Google Search and head to Settings

Head on over to Google.com in your browser.

Then look for Settings at the bottom right of the page. Click it, then select Search settings from the popup menu.

Step 2: Find the "Search Personalization" section

Once you're in Search Settings, scroll down until you spot the Search Personalization section.

Step 3: Click on the Source Preferences button,

Now that you're in the Search personalization menu, scroll down until you see Source preferences and click on it. This will bring you to the Source preferences page.

Step 4: Add AlarmGrid as a preferred source

Click Add a source, then type in: alarmgrid.com

Click the checkbox next to alarmgrid.com to set it as a preferred source.

That's it. You just told Google, "Hey, I trust these people," and now when you Google search with a relevant question Alarm Grid will be prioritized.

That's all there is to it.

From here on out, when you search for anything security related: panel setup, sensor troubleshooting, z-wave devices, you name it, AlarmGrid results jump to the front of the line. No more TechDad47, no offense to him. Just real answers from people who actually know their way around a security system.

A couple of things worth knowing:

• This setting is tied to your Google account, so it follows you across devices as long as you're signed in.
• Google can still show results from other sites. This just moves AlarmGrid to the top of related results.
• You can add up to three preferred sources total, so choose wisely. We're not saying pick us three times, but we're not not saying it.

Why AlarmGrid?

We've been writing detailed, no-fluff guides on home security systems for years. Our content is written by people who actually use and test this equipment, not scraped, not outsourced, not phoned in. If you want to browse what we've got, head to alarmgrid.com. There's a good chance we've already answered whatever you're about to Google.

If you need help or have questions about anything Alarm related, our support team is here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern. You can contact us at 888-818-7728 or by emailing support@alarmgrid.com.

Memorial Day is one of those rare holidays that holds two things at once. It's a day of gratitude, for the men and women who gave their lives in service to this country, and for the families who carry their memory forward. It's also a day of togetherness, of backyards full of family, of communities coming together to remember and to celebrate the freedoms those sacrifices made possible.

So today, a thank you. To every service member and the families who carry their memory forward. To those who served alongside them. And to every man and woman who has ever worn the uniform, thank you. Today, and every day.

Holiday Hours

The Alarm Grid office will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026. We'll be back Tuesday, May 26 at 9:00 AM Eastern Time for our regular support hours (9:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET).

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 report a false alarm or place your system on test mode, use the appropriate number below:

US customers with full monitoring: Call CMS at (888) 818-7728 and press Option [9]. Have your name, address, and false alarm password ready when the operator answers.

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

Please make sure you provide your false alarm password when you call. Giving the wrong password, or your duress password, will result in a dispatch of emergency services, as designed.

If You Need Technical Support, Email Us

The monitoring station can only help with alarm related events and system tests. For technical support, programming questions, or account changes like zone names and contact lists, shoot us an email at support@alarmgrid.com.

We'll prioritize support emails first thing Tuesday morning and get back to everyone as fast as we can. Please be patient while we respond to all requests. If it's urgent and you're an Alarm Grid customer, you can also reach us at (888) 818-7728.

From all of us at Alarm Grid, have a safe and meaningful Memorial Day!

Replacing a First Alert PROA7 or PROA7PLUS panel sounds simple enough. Alarm dealers perform replacements daily using AlarmNet360 (AN360), and when the recommended process is followed, everything works fine. But for a DIYer with no AN360 access, the proper order of things may not be clear.

DIY users often run into a unique problem. While in the process of replacing their existing PROA7 or PROA7PLUS, they also decide to add to the system and purchase new PROSIX sensors for that purpose. The hood's already up, might as well give it a tune up, right?

We've seen customers receive their replacement panel and immediately begin adding new sensors before performing the actual panel swap. We get it, new sensors are exciting! But please curb your enthusiasm until you've worked with one of our support agents to move all existing PROSIX sensors from the old panel to the new one. Otherwise, you may lose either your original PROSIX sensors or the new ones you've already added.

Why This Happens

Unlike older wireless sensors, PROSIX devices become permanently paired, or “married,” to a specific alarm panel during enrollment.

Once a PROSIX sensor is learned into a system, it cannot simply be moved to another panel later unless it is properly released from the original system first.

That means if you:

• Power up a replacement PROA7 or PROA7PLUS
• Enroll new PROSIX sensors into it
• Then later perform a panel replacement in AN360

...you may unintentionally overwrite sensor programming during the restore process.

This can go wrong in any number of ways, but the end result of not following the proper steps is that you lose sensor programming, and the affected sensors may not be recoverable. Once a PROSIX sensor has been paired with a system and powered on for 24 hours or more, it can no longer be factory defaulted. So a sensor in this position, paired with a system that no longer exists with no possibility of being factory defaulted, is a sensor that must be replaced.

But the Panel Does Exist!

Yes...and no. When a PRO Series panel is registered and communicating properly with AlarmNet360, the panel and server stay in constant sync. If programming changes, AN360 updates the panel "image" stored on the server. During a panel replacement, this saved image is transferred to the new PROA7 or PROA7PLUS.

If you get a new panel and begin programming it with new PROSIX sensors, you're creating a new and separate image. One that isn't synced with AN360. When the panel pairs with a PROSIX sensor, it chooses a channel for communication. You may be familiar with this process from older 2.4 GHz WIFI networks. The panel makes its choice based on the least noisy channel at the time of sensor programming. This information becomes part of the new image.

If that channel later becomes noisy, the panel can switch to a cleaner channel and notify all enrolled PROSIX sensors to follow it. If a sensor misses that message, it may remain stuck trying to communicate on the old channel. For more information on PROSIX wireless best practices, check out this FAQ.

The proper channel setting, the encryption key for each PROSIX sensor, and all other panel programming are stored in AN360 as part of the original panel's "image". When you initiate a panel replacement, you're telling AN360 to send the most recent image taken from the old panel to the new one. By necessity, this process replaces the new panel image you began creating when you started adding PROSIX sensors to the new panel prior to the swap. There is no way to merge these two images together.

If the replacement succeeds, the new panel becomes an exact copy of the last synced version of the old panel. That's the intended result. However, if you enrolled new PROSIX sensors into the replacement panel beforehand, those sensors will be overwritten during the replacement process. If they were powered on and paired for more than 24 hours prior to this, they cannot be factory defaulted and will have to be replaced.

The Most Important Rule

If you are replacing a PROA7 or PROA7PLUS system: DO NOT power up or enroll any new PROSIX sensors before the panel replacement is fully completed.

This includes:

• Door/window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Smoke detectors
• Heat detectors
• Glass breaks
• Key fobs
• Sirens
• Any additional PROSIX device

Leave any new sensors in the box until the replacement process is completely finished.

The Correct Way to Replace a PROA7 or PROA7PLUS

Follow these steps to avoid losing sensors or corrupting system programming:

1. Don't power on the new panel. Leave the new panel powered completely down until you are ready to physically replace the old one. Don't perform any programming on the new panel. If you have gotten to this point and you realize you've made the mistake of powering on the new panel and adding PROSIX Sensors, you should factory reset the new panel, then once all PROSIX sensors have received the reset command, power the panel down completely. You can tell a PROSIX sensor has been released if you open or fault the sensor and the LED begins blinking rapidly. If it's going to be hours or days before you can complete the replacement through AN360, remove the batteries from the new PROSIX sensors to conserve power.

If you happen to be replacing your existing panel with a used PROA7 or PROA7PLUS, be sure the "new" panel has the latest firmware. This ensures compatibility with all sensors. After updating, be sure to perform a factory reset before continuing. To do this, the panel will need to be powered on. As long as you complete these steps, then power back down before the swap is initiated in AN360, you're good. You'll need to work with your alarm dealer to arrange the firmware update, if one is needed.

2. Verify the programming. At this stage, you may want to verify that the "image" of the old panel in AN360 matches the actual programming in the old panel as closely as possible. You'll need to work with your alarm dealer to do this, as end users don't have access to AN360. If the old panel is completely dead, just do your best to complete this step.
3. Perform the panel replacement in AlarmNet360. Provide the MAC and MAC CRC from the new panel to your alarm dealer. They can now initiate the panel replacement process in AlarmNet360. If you plan to reuse the cellular module, PROWIFIZW*, or any other modules from the existing panel, power it down, remove those modules, and NEVER POWER THAT PANEL ON AGAIN WITHIN RANGE OF THE SENSORS unless your alarm dealer tells you to do so.

*When replacing a PRO Series panel paired with Z-Wave devices, AN360 can bring those devices to the new panel, preventing you from having to exclude and then include them again. However, this is only possible when the PROWIFIZW module from the old panel is moved to the new one.

4. Allow the replacement process to finish completely. After the replacement has been initiated in AN360, you should:
   • Power up the new PROA7 or PROA7PLUS.
   • Tap the Setup button for WIFI > choose your SSID > enter your password > Save > Connect.
   • Once connected to WIFI, tap Next, then tap Register.
   • Let the new panel fully sync with AlarmNet360. As it goes through the process of adding the existing PROSIX sensors, the panel will chime for each sensor.
   Do not interrupt this process. Depending on signal strength and the number of enrolled sensors, synchronization may take several minutes to complete. Be sure your alarm dealer also knows not to access the account in AN360 until the replacement process has fully finished.
5. Confirm all existing sensors restored properly. Tap the hamburger menu icon (☰) at the bottom center of the Home screen, then tap Sensors. You should see a list of all enrolled sensors. Verify that the sensor names are correct. To the right of each sensor name, the panel will display the signal strength and battery status of the sensor. Initially, these fields may appear blank. As the panel completes synchronization with the sensors, the signal and battery indicators will gradually populate. The replacement process is not complete until every sensor shows both a valid signal strength and an accurate battery level.

If the old panel was completely dead, or otherwise unable to communicate with the PROSIX sensors for an extended period of time, some sensors may show a low battery condition sooner than expected. PROSIX sensors continuously attempt to check in with the panel. If the panel does not respond, the sensors continue trying repeatedly, which can prematurely drain their batteries. If you suspect that an existing PROSIX sensor may have a dead battery, replace the batteries in the device and make sure it communicates fully with the panel before you enter panel programming.

6. Add new PROSIX sensors. Only after completing the previous steps should you begin enrolling any newly purchased sensors. Once you have verified that all programming has been synced from AN360 to the new panel, you can add additional sensors and make any other necessary changes.

Final Thoughts

We understand why DIY users try to prepare the new panel ahead of time. It feels like the faster and more organized approach. Unfortunately, with PROA7 and PROA7PLUS systems using PROSIX sensors, doing this can actually create major problems during the replacement process.

The safest approach is simple:

• Keep the replacement panel powered off.
• Leave all new PROSIX sensors unopened and unpowered.
• Work with your alarm dealer to complete the AlarmNet360 replacement first.
• Verify old sensors restored correctly.
• Finally, add any new devices and test for proper operation.

Following the proper order prevents lost programming, sensor lockouts, and hours of unnecessary troubleshooting. Alarm Grid customers who need to perform a PROA7, PROA7PLUS, or even VISTAH3 replacement with existing PROSIX sensors should contact support prior to taking any action on the replacement. Our support team is here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern. You can contact us at 888-818-7728 or by emailing support@alarmgrid.com.

Qolsys has released IQ Panel 5 firmware version 5.0.2 with performance improvements, bug fixes, and upgrades to PGM rules on the entire IQ Panel 5 family. Unlike IQ4 systems, the IQ5 lineup no longer supports local firmware updates through the panel access point and now relies solely on WIFI.

Firmware Updates on IQ4 vs IQ5 Panels

The IQ4 family of panels allows firmware updates to be installed locally using the panel’s built-in access point feature, commonly called Panel AP. This method allowed a user or installer to download the firmware file to a phone or tablet, connect directly to the panel and transfer the file, then install the update.

While this feature was convenient in certain situations, it was seldom used in real-world installations. Most IQ panel firmware updates are performed using WIFI and the panel’s built-in network update tools. Because of this, Qolsys removed local firmware installation support from the IQ Panel 5 family.

This change affects the following systems:

• IQ Panel 5
• IQ5 Hub
• IQ5 NS

These panels can still receive firmware updates directly from Qolsys or Alarm.com using an internet connection, but downloadable firmware files are no longer provided for local installation. However, you can bookmark our IQ5 Family Firmware Update Page for information about future updates.

How to Update IQ Panel 5 Firmware

Before starting the update process, make sure the panel is connected to WIFI and is powered by AC with a charged backup battery. The panel must be on version 5.0.1 before installing 5.0.2. To find the current version, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer Code (default:1111) > About > Tap Software. Verify your panel is on software 5.0.1.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen and touch “Settings.”
2. Tap “Advanced Settings.”
3. Enter the Installer Code. The default is 1111.
4. Tap “Upgrade Software.”
5. Touch “Patch Tag.”
6. Enter the patch tag: iqpanel5.0.2
7. Touch “OK.”
8. Touch “Upgrade Using Network.”
9. Allow the panel to download and install the update.
10. When prompted, touch “OK” to reboot the panel.

The software install and reboot process can take several minutes. Do not interact with the touchscreen while the update is being installed.

Using “Upgrade Using Network” Without a Patch Tag

You can also update the panel without entering a patch tag. In many cases, simply selecting “Upgrade Using Network” will allow the panel to contact Qolsys servers and automatically search for available firmware.

However, when a firmware release is very new, Qolsys may initially restrict the automatic update path while the rollout is being staged. During that time, the firmware may only be available by entering the correct patch tag manually.

Once the rollout becomes fully public, the patch tag is usually no longer necessary.

Update Via Alarm.com

For those who are less into Do It Yourself, and more into Do It Together, you can request that your alarm dealer push the firmware update for you using Alarm.com. The Alarm.com server can tell if there are one or more firmware updates available for your panel based on its current version. The server will advise which updates should be installed, and will recommend the proper order, if multiple updates are available.

What’s New in Firmware Version 5.0.2?

Firmware version 5.0.2 includes several fixes and improvements for the IQ Panel 5 family.

• Fixed an issue where the siren could continue sounding during a Panel Test.
• Improved IQ Installer App pairing performance with IQ5 systems.
• Resolved an issue where the panel could reboot while writing health memory data.
• Updated touchscreen sensitivity calibration.
• Added updated supervision support for new PGP Heat Detectors, including the PGP9979 and PGP8979.
• Fixed certain PGM rule behaviors when using compatible W2W and IOG modules.

As with previous Qolsys firmware releases, version 5.0.2 focuses heavily on stability improvements and better long-term reliability for both installers and end users.

If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you need help updating your IQ Panel 5, IQ5 Hub, or IQ5 NS firmware, our support team is happy to assist. You can email us at support@alarmgrid.com or call us at 888-818-8283. Our support hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET. Please have your panel connected to WIFI before beginning the update process.

Firmware updates keep your 2GIG GC Touch panel running smoothly while adding new features and improving current ones. The latest update introduces enhanced usability, new customization options, and system improvements that help ensure continued reliable performance from your security system.

A firmware update is available for the 2GIG GC Touch, available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE versions. In this post we're talking about Version 1.1, displayed on the panel as ROM 1.1.072. To check your current firmware version, go to Settings (⚙️), enter your Installer Code (1561 by default), and navigate to the System Information screen. Scroll down until you see the Software Version. After completing the update, the panel will reflect the new version number as noted above, confirming that the firmware has been successfully installed.

Removed the Enter Requirement for PIN Codes

"And the people said, Amen!" One of the most noticeable usability improvements, and my personal favorite, is that you no longer need to press the Enter (↵) button after entering a user code. The GC Touch now automatically accepts valid 4-digit or 6-digit codes, depending on your system's settings, once entered. This streamlines everyday interactions like arming and disarming the system, making operation faster and less cumbersome for users.

Sensor Chime Voice Annunciation

This update introduces voice annunciation for sensor chimes. Instead of relying solely on a chime tone, the panel can now audibly announce sensor activity. This gives the user clearer awareness of which door or window has been opened, improving situational awareness throughout the home without requiring you to look at the panel screen. A sensor can use chime tones or voice description, but not both.

30-Minute Sounder Disable for Testing

A new option allows users or installers to temporarily disable the panel sounder for up to 30 minutes. This is especially useful during system testing or maintenance, since it prevents repeated alarm sirens while allowing you to verify sensor functionality. It makes troubleshooting and walk testing far more convenient and less disruptive for children, pets, and you! To disable the sounder, from the Home Screen tap Settings (⚙️) > Enter Installer Code (default: 1561) > Equipment Management > Disable Sounder.

OTA Firmware Update Requests from the Panel

Version 1.1 also lays the groundwork for easier updates in the future by adding the ability to request over the air updates directly through the panel. While updates are still managed and distributed via Alarm.com, this feature streamlines the update process, reduces reliance on manual USB updates, and minimizes the need to contact your alarm dealer for firmware updates.

Screen Saver and Photo Slideshow

A highly anticipated addition is the new screen saver and photo slideshow feature. The GC Touch can now display images when idle, allowing it to function as a digital picture frame. This adds a more personalized touch to the panel and helps it blend more naturally into the home environment. If you need help configuring this new feature, check out our FAQ on the subject.

Repeater Supervision Support

Finally, the update also introduces repeater supervision support. This allows the panel to monitor compatible repeaters and confirm that they remain operational. By supervising these devices, the system can maintain strong and reliable communication with wireless sensors throughout the property.

Keeping your 2GIG GC Touch up to date ensures you get the best performance, features, and reliability from your system. If you need help updating your panel or have questions about these new features, contact the Alarm Grid support team. Call us at 888-818-7728, email support@alarmgrid.com, or visit www.alarmgrid.com to chat with a live agent. Support is available Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time, with chat available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time.

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.