DIY Security Systems Posts

At Alarm Grid, we truly believe that most security systems can be installed by end users, with no on-site support from professional installers or technicians. Installing your own DIY security system can save you money in the long run, and it will keep you and those around you safe.

There are many considerations you will want to make if you are just getting into the market for the first time. You should start by thinking about which alarm panel you want to use. There are several options out there. We recommend reading the three (3) statements below and deciding which one applies to you the most. We realize that all of these statements may apply to your situation, but for the sake of picking the best panel, try and narrow it down to the single most accurate statement. We can begin to steer you towards the optimal panel just based on that one answer, as it shows what is most important to you in this decision.

A. I want the best all-around DIY security system.

B. I want a security system for low-cost monitoring.

C. I want a system system that adds property value.

For those choosing A and wanting the best all-around DIY security system, the answer is most often the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. It has an attractive, modern design that looks great when on placed on a desk or table with its included stand. The entire installation can be complete using only a screwdriver in just a matter of minutes. Programming is made super easy and intuitive, and the vast majority of new users describe the simple setup process as a pleasant experience. The system has a great user interface (UI), and you will love how well the menus are laid out.

Since the IQ Panel 2 Plus has a built-in cellular communicator and an integrated WIFI card, you will not need to add any equipment to use dual-path connectivity with the system. It is ready to go, right out of the box. The panel is also loaded with features that really help make it appealing to those interested in home automation. This comes in six (6) variants, as there are three (3) legacy sensor support options (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, 433 MHz), and each one is available in AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE. The most popular model is the 319.5 MHZ Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, simply because it is the most affordable, but they are all fantastic.

If B is most important for you, and you want to keep your monitoring costs as low as possible, then you will generally want to look at the Honeywell Alarm Panels. This is because Honeywell Panels can be set up for alarm monitoring service without needing use a cellular communicator. Although cellular communication allows for the optimal reliability, it also increases the cost of alarm monitoring due to the cellular service charges. If you have a strong WIFI internet connection in your home, then you can rely on an IP-only setup for alarm monitoring. An excellent panel for this type of setup is the Honeywell Lyric Controller.

The Honeywell Lyric Alarm System is professional-grade security system that is supported by alarm companies across the industry. The panel provides effective and reliable monitoring service to keep your home or business monitored and protected at all times. It is also no slouch when it comes to smart home functionality, as you will have no trouble setting up a complete automation network with the panel if desired. But the money saving aspect lies in the fact this panel is able to connect with monitoring servers without needing a registered cellular communicator. This can save you hundreds in annual monitoring expenses by strictly relying on IP connectivity. All you need to do is connect the Lyric to your WIFI network and have the panel activated by your alarm monitoring company. For more information on why the Lyric is a great option for low-cost alarm monitoring service, please check out this prior blog.

Lastly, those choosing C, where adding property value is the main consideration, you might want to look into a hardwired security system. This is especially true if you are building new construction and have the capacity to run wires throughout the new or unfinished building. An integrated, hardwired security system will add value to any property, and it gives the home or business a nice additional feature. But it should be noted that hardwired systems are more difficult to install. While we have seen some DIY users install their own hardwired systems, the task is usually completed by a professional due to the sheer amount of wiring involved. However, we are happy to work with a third-party installer in helping you install a wired system.

Most new installations today utilize wireless security systems. But if you decide that a wired system is for you, then there are plenty of options to choose from. Hardwired Honeywell Panels are great if you looking to minimize monitoring costs by using IP-only connectivity. We are particularly fond of the Honeywell VISTA-21iPLTE, as it already has a built-in IP communicator for supporting a wired ethernet connection. A cellular communicator can also be added if desired. Overall, the Honeywell VISTA-21iPLTE will provide more than enough functionality for any home or small to medium sized business. There are also commercial-grade panels like the Honeywell VISTA-128BPT, the Honeywell VISTA-250BPT, and the DSC PowerSeries NEO HS128NK, but those are more suited for large businesses and industrial complexes. Just remember that you will need to add extra accessories for all wired systems, such as alarm wiring, a siren, and keypads.

Start by considering what is most important to you if you are looking for a new alarm system. Once you have committed to a panel, you can start building around it to establish security and automation capabilities. This will include choosing compatible sensors and other accessories. You can also start checking out various monitoring plans to determine which one is right for you. If you ever want to talk to us, we are best reached by emailing support@alrmgrid.com. Our support team answers email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

For users looking to add smoke and heat detectors to their wireless systems, there are always some great options to consider. Of course, the specific models you can choose from will depend which alarm panel you are using. We're here to present the best options for some popular systems.

For this list, we are presenting our favorite combination smoke and heat detector and standalone heat detector for each system. Combination smoke and heat detectors are what you should use in most locations of your home or business. During a fire, smoke is usually detected before heat, so a combination sensor will rely on smoke detection as its primary method for detecting fires. Heat detection serves as a good backup to smoke detection.

But there are some rooms of a home where it is better to use standalone heat detectors. This is because using a regular smoke detector in these rooms could result in false alarms due to excessive dust, moisture, or smoke that is normally present. Examples of rooms where a standalone heat detector is often a better option include kitchens, attics, garages, and bathrooms. Remember that standalone heat sensors are one-and-done devices, and they must be replaced after activation. Do not test them using a hair dryer!

Below are our favorite smoke and heat detector options for various systems:

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus (319.5 MHz)

Smoke & Heat: DSC PG9936

Standalone Heat: Interlogix HDX-135

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus (345 MHz)

Smoke & Heat: DSC PG9936

Standalone Heat: Honeywell 5809SS

Honeywell Lyric Alarm System

Smoke & Heat: Honeywell SiXSMOKE

Standalone Heat: Honeywell 5809SS

2GIG GC3e & 2GIG GC2e

Smoke & Heat: 2GIG SMKT8e-345

Standalone Heat: Honeywell 5809SS

If you need any help setting up your new Alarm Grid Security System, or if you are interested in learning more about our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Looking for an easy way to improve upon your security system? Adding security cameras and integrating them with your existing setup will really let you unlock your system's full potential. You can have your cameras activate and begin recording as soon as activity occurs on your system.

The main thing you should consider when choosing cameras for an existing system is to think about which alarm panel you have. Your alarm panel, by extension, determines which interactive service platform you use. Most Alarm Grid monitored customers use either Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. If you have a Honeywell Security System, then you most likely use Total Connect 2.0. If you have Alarm Grid monitoring service using a panel from a different manufacturer, such as Qolsys, 2GIG, or DSC, then you most likely use Alarm.com.

Both Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com have their own selection of cameras to choose from. Total Connect 2.0 keeps things simple with just three (3) cameras to choose from as of April 2020. These cameras are the Honeywell IPCAM-WIC1, the Honeywell IPCAM-WIC2, and the Honeywell IPCAM-WOC1. Alarm.com seems to release updated models more frequently, as they continue to update their camera lineup. At this time some of our favorite Alarm.com Camera Models include the Alarm.com ADC-V522IR, the Alarm.com ADC-V622-WELL, and the Alarm.com ADC-V723.

Once you know which camera lineup to choose from, there are many factors for you to consider when deciding which camera to buy. Some of these factors include whether the camera is for indoor or outdoor use, the recording quality of the camera, the camera's viewing angle, and how much money you would like to spend. Since Honeywell only has three cameras currently on the market, it's usually pretty cut and dry which one is best for your needs. With Alarm.com, there are more options to consider.

Whether you are using TC2 or ADC, you can view the live feed for your camera remotely from anywhere in the world using an app on your phone. You can also set a camera to begin recording, whenever activity occurs on your system. For example, if someone faults an Entry/Exit Zone and triggers an Entry Delay countdown, then you can have your camera record all the action. Usually, it will just the routine activity of an authorized individual arming the system, but you will be ready if anyone tries to make an unauthorized entry into your home or business. And you can set your cameras for all sorts of triggers, included faulted sensors, system alarms, at certain times of day, and more.

Remember that you will need a monitoring plan that includes video surveillance to use security cameras. If you already have a monitored system with Alarm Grid, then the easiest option is to upgrade to a Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full). To learn more, or if you have any questions about security cameras or our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We check our support emails from Monday thru Friday, 9am to 8pm ET. We look forward to hearing from you!

We have learned that Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Firmware Version 2.5.2 is now available. Anyone with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus can download this update. This is a universal update that will improve system performance and connectivity with Alarm.com. Apply it as soon as possible.

There isn't too much exciting to talk about with this update, but it is still very important. The only definitive noticeable change is that it fixes an error involving low-battery alerts while using a Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16 Wired to Wireless Converter. Other than that, the update mostly serves to improve the communication between the panel and Alarm.com.

You can read the entire Technical Service Bulletin TSB# 200413 here.

To apply this update, make sure that your panel is running at least Firmware Version 2.0.1, and have your system connected with a local WIFI network. The system should be connected with its transformer, and its backup battery should be charged. Please also note that if you are updating from Firmware Version 2.5.0 or 2.5.1, you must change the Log Level to "Verbose". This is done by clicking the small grey bar at the top of the system screen and choosing Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer Code (default 1111) > Installation > System Logs.

Once you are ready, from the primary panel, click the small grey bar at the top of the screen. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > provide the Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > enter iqpanel2.5.2 > OK > Upgrade using network. The upgrade process should then begin. It normally takes less than 30 minutes. Remember that you must enter the Patch Tag exactly, or else the process will fail.

If you have any questions about this update, please email support@alarmgrid.com. We offer free technical support for monitored customers. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Note: This new Qolsys update should not be confused with Total Connect 2.0 Update Version 2.5.2, which was released in October of 2018.

When working with security systems, there are only certain types of smoke detectors that can directly integrate with an alarm panel. But many people overlook the fact that almost all high-voltage smoke detectors can still be integrated indirectly using smoke detector listening modules.

Smoke detector listening modules are wireless devices designed to actively listen for the Temporal 3 sound of an activated smoke detector. By law, life-safety smoke detectors must produce the Temporal 3 sound, which consists of three (3) consecutive tones, followed by a short pause, and then three (3) more tones with this pattern repeating continuously. Both high-voltage 110V smoke detectors and wireless battery powered smoke detectors will produce the same sound. This means that you can use wireless listening modules with both types.

All new construction is required to be outfitted with high-voltage smoke detectors. As a result, it's very likely that you already have these devices in your home or business. You should test these devices to make sure that they are working, and replace any devices that are non-functional. Then you can use a listening module to integrate the devices with your security system and your alarm monitoring service. If you have a network of interconnected hardwired smoke detectors, then you can use a single listening module to takeover the entire network!

Like all security and life-safety products, your smoke detector listening module will need to be tested regularly. Before doing any testing, you should put your system on test mode by either contacting your central station directly or by using the MyAlarms.com feature if you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer. Then activate the smoke detector's sounder by using its test button (if applicable) or by directing canned smoke into its vents. Make sure that your listening module detects the sound and triggers an alarm on your system. Remember that the listening module should be mounted within six (6) inches of the detector for best results.

We offer two (2) smoke detector listening modules on our website. The Interlogix SLX-AD-T3 is for 319.5 MHz systems, while the Encore FireFighter FF345 is for 345 MHz systems. Check and make sure you purchase the correct model that will successfully enroll with your wireless alarm panel. If you aren't sure which one to get, then you should contact us at support@alarmgrid.com, and we will be happy to help. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

For those shopping for a low-cost security system, the Honeywell Lyric is our go-to option. The panel can be used with an IP-only communication path, which is considerably less expensive than a cellular or dual-path communication alarm system. This is the best way to cut monitoring expenses.

Having an active and reliable communication path is an absolute must for alarm monitoring service. Your alarm panel is basically the central security hub for your home or office. It needs to be able to send out signals and communicate with equipment in other locations. If your system detects activity that warrants attention, then it will send an alert to you and/or a central monitoring station so that proper action can be taken. This can include notifying the local authorities immediately, sending emergency rescue services, or just having a call and text sent to your phone. But no matter what action is taken, it's all possible because your system was able to communicate out reliably.

The most reliable communication path available for a security system is cellular communication. This is basically the same technology as what is used inside your phone when placing calls. If your system is in an area with good cellular reception, then it is highly unlikely that your system will ever go offline and leave you temporarily unmonitored. And an electrical outage will not be an issue, as cellular communication does not require a modem to remain online. This makes cellular communication extremely reliable and perfect for use with alarm systems. But cellular service providers charge a fee for their services, which makes cellular monitoring more expensive.

Users who are looking to reduce monitoring expenses will often turn to an IP-only security system. An IP-only system will not use cellular communication technology. Instead, it will communicate across internet protocol (IP). This will require either a wireless WIFI connection or a hardwired ethernet connection. In the case of the Lyric, the system already comes with a built-in WIFI card. You just need to connect it to the 2.4 GHz WIFI network in your home or office. This can all be done using the touchscreen display on the panel. It is very easy to connect a Lyric System to the internet, and you will be up and running in no time at all.

Now, you might still be wondering, why the Lyric? Lots of panels like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the 2GIG GC3e have built-in WIFI. What makes the Lyric noteworthy? The advantage that the Lyric holds over those panels when it comes to those looking for an IP-only setup is that the Lyric connects with the Resideo AlarmNet360 Servers. Resideo (formerly Honeywell) allows compatible panels to connect with their servers using IP-only communication. There is no requirement put in place from Resideo or AlarmNet mandating that a system connected with their monitoring and automation servers must have a cellular communicator that is registered and activated. This is very important because Alarm.com, the monitoring and automation platform for other alarm systems like the IQ2+ and GC3e, does in fact have this requirement. What it all comes down to, if you want to keep your monthly monitoring costs as low as possible, then you should go with a system from Honeywell or Resideo.

Just how much will you save by going with the Lyric on an IP-only communication path over another panel like the IQ2+ or GC3e? The exact figures will depend on the monitoring company. If you decide that Alarm Grid is the right solution for your home or business, then you can see the expenses on our monitoring page. Assuming your are just looking for basic central station service, you will see that our Gold Plan (our most popular plan) is the lowest of our main plans with cellular connectivity and central station service. While this plan also offers some nice features, such as automation and the ability to control your system remotely using a mobile app, we understand that these features and bonuses aren't for everyone. Many users just want affordable and effective alarm monitoring so that they can get an insurance discount. And at $35 a month, those extra features are sometimes seen as unnecessary expenses. Alarm Grid also offers a no-frills $25 per month Cellular-Only Plan. But you can drop the cost even lower by going IP-only.

If you look closely at our monitoring page, you will see our $15 per month Bronze Plan. That plan is ideal for Lyric users who just want to get their systems connected with a central station. This will provide the user with peace of mind in knowing that they have a reliable and proactive protection plan in place in case of trouble. And the insurance discount is nice too. Yes, remote automation and cellular connectivity are nice features to have, but not everyone really benefits from them. If your internet is reliable, and you don't care for fancy smart home automation features, then our $15 Bronze Plan might be your best choice.

Alarm Grid Central Station Plans	Cost
Bronze	$15
Cell-Only	$25
Gold	$35

Over the course of a year going with a Bronze Plan over a Cell-Only Plan will save you $120. Going with a Bronze Plan over a Gold Plan will save you $240 per year. You will also save money right up-front by not having to buy a cellular communicator add-on for your Lyric System (either the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A or Honeywell LYRICLTE-V). Plus, if your budget ever increases and you have more money to spend, you can always add one of those communicators and upgrade your monitoring plan. All of our monitoring services are no-contract, with no added fees. You will not be required to pay any surprise or sudden charges to upgrade (or downgrade) your monitoring plan, and there are never any activation or cancellation fees. As one final assurance, all of our supported equipment is non-proprietary and can be taken to other alarm companies as needed. If you are ever not happy or satisfied with the level of service and support we are offering, then we challenge you to take your alarm system to a different monitoring company. Our customers come back to us only because of the fantastic support we provide. Now, we invite you to join our family.

If you are interested in starting service with Alarm Grid, or if you still have some questions, feel free to email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our support staff answers emails Monday thru Friday from 9am to 8pm ET. You might also consider browsing our website. We have plenty of resources and information that is freely available, whether you are monitored by us or not. As always, thank you for reading our blog, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

Anyone setting up a new wireless security system will definitely want to consider picking up a Honeywell LT-Cable for their installation. This is a pre-prepared wire that doesn't require any stripping or special tools. All you need is a screwdriver to connect the panel and the transformer.

Alarm wiring is needed to complete the connection between the panel and its plug-in power transformer. Traditionally, users had to strip and prepare their own cabling, which made the process more tedious and difficult. But with prepared cabling like the Honeywell LT-Cable, the process is made much easier, and it really will work with nearly any security system. With this wire, you can install your own security system with just a screwdriver, and without having to hire a professional installer.

There are two (2) parts to the Honeywell LT-Cable. There is a smaller cord that connects with the power terminals on the back of your panel. The other end of this smaller cord has the female barrel connector. Then the larger cord has the male barrel connector on one end and spade connectors for connecting with the plug-in transformer on the other. The larger cord measures eight (8) feet, while the smaller portion is seven (7) inches in length. All together, you get a little bit more than 8.5 feet of wiring with the LT-Cable.

It's surprising to consider that most security systems do not come with a power wire for connecting with a transformer. While the transformer is included, most users can expect to supply their own wiring. A notable exception to this rule is the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, which does include a power wire. As such, no LT-Cable is needed for an IQ Panel 2, though you might still add one if the original wire ever becomes damaged. But other panels like the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System and the 2GIG GC3e do not come bundled with any cabling, so the Honeywell LT-Cable makes for the perfect accessory.

One other advantage to the LT-Cable is that you can easily unplug the barrel connectors if you ever need to power down your system for adding new hardware or troubleshooting. This can be easier and more convenient than needing to unplug the transformer, especially if the transformer is screwed into the outlet. Remember that you will also need to unplug the system's backup battery to perform a power cycle. If you need a wire run that is longer than 8.5 feet, you might consider purchasing Genesis Alarm Wiring, which is also sold on our site.

We invite you to reach out to us if you have any questions about the LT-Cable or our monitoring services. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We maintain support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Our team looks forward to hearing from you!

We are often asked about security system options for those on a tight budget. At Alarm Grid, we believe that everyone should have access to alarm monitoring, and we try to accommodate as many people as possible. We have found that a basic starter security system can start at under $250.

There are two main expenses you need to consider when setting up your own alarm system. There is the up-front cost of your equipment, and there is the monthly cost of alarm monitoring service. At Alarm Grid, our customers must purchase their own equipment. This is universal equipment that can work with virtually any alarm monitoring service. It is not proprietary equipment that will only work with a specific platform. If you ever want to switch monitoring companies you can easily do so. Once your system's communicator is released, it can be taken to nearly any company.

Some companies may offer you a free security system just for signing up for their service. That might sound like a great deal, but there are a couple of things to look out for. One issue is that the system they are offering might be a proprietary system. In other words, it will only work with their monitoring service. If you try to switch to a new monitoring company for any reason, you will be stuck finding new equipment. But perhaps even more concerning is that a company might lock you into a long-term contract for their services. This can make it tough to change or cancel your service.

With Alarm Grid, you own all your equipment outright. You can easily take your Alarm Grid Security System to a completely different monitoring company if desired. We will always release a communicator if requested, and we will never hold your system hostage. Additionally, all of our monitoring plans are month-to-month, and you can cancel your service before your next billing cycle to avoid paying extra. Also remember that we never change any extra or hidden fees, and there is never any additional fee for starting or stopping service.

The best way to get a low-cost security system is to consider both the up-front cost and the monthly cost. And we have a viable system option that will get you started for less than $250. We would like to recommend our Refurbished Honeywell Lyric Controller for anyone on a tight system budget. Add in a couple of VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contacts and a Honeywell LT-Cable for powering the system, and you are still looking at a total cost of under $250. We are extremely confident in the quality of our refurbished equipment. More information can be found here.

The Lyric System is also ideal for keeping monthly monitoring costs low, as it can connect with the Reisdeo AlarmNet360 Servers through an IP-only connection. This is considerably cheaper than using cellular monitoring. However, you must understand that an internet outage will take your panel offline if you don't have cellular backup. But many users who understand the risks involved are happy to save money by going with IP monitoring. The Lyric already includes a built-in WIFI card, so you will not need to add anything to the system to do IP monitoring. And if you ever decide to upgrade to cellular monitoring later, the system has two (2) LTE options available.

Alarm Grid offers its Bronze Level Plan for just $15 per month. This plan will allow your Lyric System to connect with the Honeywell AlarmNet Servers for central station monitoring service. This is all you need to get a Certificate of Alarm for potential savings on your homeowner's insurance. You might also consider adding at least one smoke detector to your system for further savings with your homeowner's insurance. Currently the least expensive wireless smoke detector for the Lyric System is the Honeywell SiXSMOKE Smoke Detector. Another nice accessory is the Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount, which will allow you to use the panel without mounting it to a wall or lying it flat on a surface.

For just $250 up-front and $15 per month, you can get central station monitoring service and a state-of-the-art security system that is perfect for building around as your budget grows. And if you lack funds up-front, then we offer financing options that we are happy to discuss. Please email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you want to learn more about our products or monitoring services. We answer emails during our regular support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Are you bored during the social distancing era from COVID-19 outbreak? If you're going crazy, wondering just what to do with yourself, you might try testing your home security system. It can be a great feeling to know that everything is working properly. And you can do it yourself!

A complete security system test involves checking all of your sensors and making sure they report to the panel properly. This practice of testing a system is also sometimes referred to as a Walk Test. Many systems have a designated Walk Test mode for this purpose. This mode is often most convenient, as the faulted zones will appear on the screen. You can have a friend stand in front of the panel, while you go around and fault various sensors. This can be a good way to keep track of zones on your system in the event that you ever lose your zone list.

Before conducting any security system test, you should make sure to put your system on test mode. This is very important if you have monitoring service with a central station. If an alarm comes through on your central station account while your system is not in test mode, the central station operator will think that it is a legitimate alarm. This could result in unnecessary dispatch to your residence, and you may receive a fine from your local jurisdiction. Please do not waste the time and resources of your community, and always put your system into test mode when testing equipment!

The best way to put your system on test mode is by using the MyAlarms.com feature from our central station partner, Criticom Monitoring Services. This complementary service will allow you to put your system on test mode by yourself, without needing to receive verification or have someone else do it for you. We have a blog about the MyAlarms.com service, which you can view right here. Other ways to put your system on test mode include contacting us between 9am and 8pm ET M-F by emailing support@alarmgrid.com or by calling (888) 818-7728, or by contact CMS directly.

Each sensor will be tested in a different way. Some common examples include:

• Opening and closing doors and windows to test door and window contacts.
• Walking around a room to make sure motion sensors activate. Have your pets walk around too if you are using pet-immune motion sensors.
• Use a glass break simulator to test your glass break detectors. For Honeywell FG-701 users, this FAQ may help you.
• Use canned smoke to test your smoke detectors.
• Use the test button on a standalone heat detector. Do not use a hair dryer to test a standalone heat sensor, as those are one-and-done devices.
• You can test the heat detection function on a combination smoke and heat detector by using a hair dryer. Unlike a standalone heat detector, you can safely activate the heat detection function on a combo device.
• Use canned CO gas to test carbon monoxide sensors. Be very careful when using this equipment!
• Press each button on a key fob or medical alert sensor to make sure it transmits successfully. Remember to also test multi-button inputs if your key fob supports them.

A regular system test is a routine affair that you should perform often. It is the best way to ensure that your system is working properly. And also remember that if you need an updated Certificate of Alarm (CoA) for a homeowner's insurance discount, then you must perform an annual test to prove that your system is working properly. Each CoA is good for one (1) calendar year, so make sure to keep up with this so you don't lose out on your insurance discount. We have more information on Certificate of Alarms that you can click here to view.

If you need further help testing your system, or if you are interested in learning more about our products or services, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. Although our support staff is currently working from home, we are still committed to providing you with the very best customer service and technical support. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F, so keep that in mind when contacting us. We look forward to hearing from you!

We're back with a new video recap! We apologize that we were unable to post this recap yesterday. Since our Florida office has been closed, we won't be able to shoot new videos until it reopens. But we are working to resume business as usual as soon as possible. For now, let's check out our newest videos!

Adding a Wireless Zone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge shows you how to add a new zone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. The process is the same, regardless of which version of the IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus System you are using. You need to put the system in its auto-enrollment mode and then fault the sensor you are adding to transmit a signal to the panel. The system should then receive the signal and allow you to add the sensor to the system and configure the settings for that zone.

Adding a 2GIG GB1 to the 2GIG GC3

Your friend Jarrett shows you how to add a 2GIG GB1 Glass Break Detector to a 2GIG GC3 Security System. The 2GIG GB1 is a glass break detector that transmits signals at 345 MHz. The device actively listens for glass break events. It must hear both the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking against the glass and the high-pitched "shattering" of the glass breaking in order to activate. This dual-detection method helps prevent false alarms on the system.

Using a 5853 Glass Break Detector with a 2GIG GC3

Jarrett explains how you can use a Honeywell 5853 Glass Break Sensor with a 2GIG GC3 Alarm System. The Honeywell 5853 is part of the Honeywell 5800 Sensor lineup, and it transmits signals at a wireless frequency of 345 MHz. The sensor can be conveniently auto-enrolled with the GC3 System by putting the panel into its auto-enrollment mode and then activating the tamper cover for the sensor. You will need to adjust the Loop Number for the sensor when programming.

Using WIFI as Primary and GSM as Backup On My Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System uses both cellular and IP connectivity to communicate with the Alarm.com servers. Alarm.com requires that any system connected with its servers has a cellular communicator installed and registered. The IQ Panel 2 System has both an LTE cellular communicator and a WIFI card built inside. Most users will set up the system to communicate across both pathways for optimal performance and reliability. This will require a monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity.

Adding a Remote Keypad to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge covers the process for adding a Qolsys IQ Remote Keypad to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. In order for the pairing to work, the IQ Remote Keypad and the IQ Panel 2 System should be connected with the same WIFI network. If no WIFI is available, then the system and keypad can connect using a wireless access point (AP). Once you have completed the pairing process, you should test the IQ Remote by arming and disarming the system to ensure that it is working properly.

Using the Chime feature On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how chimes work on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. A chime is a quick sound the system makes when a connected sensor is faulted or activated. They are useful for quickly letting you know about system events. You can set up individual chimes for each zone on the system. However, no chimes will be produced if system-wide chimes are disabled. If there is a zone for which you don't want any chime sounds to occur, then you can set its chime setting to None.

Using 2GIG Sensors On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jarrett explains how you can use 2GIG Sensors with the 345 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Any sensor you want to use with the system will first need to be enrolled. We recommend auto-enrolling, as this ensures that the sensor can communicate with the panel successfully. Any uni-directional 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor can be used with the 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus. Please note that this does not include the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, which are for the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e only.