DIY Security Systems Posts

Are you clinging to an older alarm system that uses a phone line? You're not alone. Many reliable old systems are still in use, but finding POTS service may be a challenge. Dialer capture modules offer an easy way to update your older system, allowing it to communicate over cellular networks.

An LTEM-P is shown on the right, and the PRODCM is shown on the left below. The PRODCM mounts inside the enclosure for the LTEM-P:

This means you can keep your existing alarm panel and sensors while upgrading to a more reliable and future-proof communication method. Here we'll explore two popular options: the Resideo PRODCM and the all-new Alarm.com Universal Communicator (LX30B-Q50TU-AUC).

Resideo PRODCM Dialer Capture Module

The Resideo PRODCM is a compact plug-in module designed to work with Resideo's LTEM-PA and LTEM-PV communicators. It's a great choice for alarm panels that don't support Resideo's ECP data communication but can send signals in the Contact ID (CID) format through a telephone output.

Key Features of the Resideo PRODCM:

• Seamless Integration: The PRODCM cleverly mimics a phone line. When your alarm panel tries to dial the central station, the module provides a dial tone, receives the dialed number, and then captures the Contact ID message. If a panel can report using CID format and has a working dialer, it can be used with the PRODCM
• Reliable Communication: Once the alarm signal is captured, it's passed to the LTEM-P series communicator, which then sends it to the central monitoring station over the internet, if available, or a cellular network, if enabled.
• One-Way Communication: It's important to note that the PRODCM only supports one-way communication from the control panel to the central station. This means features like remote access via Total Connect 2.0 or remote downloading to the panel are not supported.
• Simple Installation: The module plugs directly into the main board of an LTEM-P series communicator. The alarm panel's Tip and Ring terminals are then wired to the terminals on the PRODCM.

Alarm.com Universal Communicator LX30B-Q50TU-AUC

The Alarm.com Universal Communicator (AUC) LX30B-Q50TU-AUC is another excellent option for upgrading older POTS-based security systems. It is compatible with a wide range of panels from manufacturers like DSC, Honeywell, GE, and Paradox. This device not only provides a modern communication path but also adds some smart features.

The Alarm.com LX30B-Q50TU-AUC is shown below:

Key Features of the Alarm.com LX30B-Q50TU-AUC:

• Broad Compatibility: The AUC can work with many different brands of older alarm panels, making it a versatile choice. It supports both Contact ID (CID) and SIA signaling formats.
• Interactive Services: A major advantage of the AUC is its ability to connect to the Alarm.com platform. This allows you to remotely arm and disarm a compatible system using the Alarm.com app and receive notifications for events, like alarms.
• Remote Arming and Status: By using a keyswitch zone and a programmable output (PGM) on your existing panel, the AUC can provide remote arming capabilities and allow you to view the system's status from your phone. To clear an alarm, the user must log into the customer website. You cannot clear an alarm through the app. For VISTA panels, the alarm must be cleared locally through the panel keypad. The system can't be armed again until the alarm is cleared locally.
• Flexible Installation: The AUC wires to the control panel's auxiliary power and telephone terminals. For remote arming and status updates, it also connects to a zone and a PGM on the panel.

Partial List of Alarm.com Universal Communicator Compatible Panels

Feature Comparison

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between the Resideo PRODCM and the Alarm.com LX30B-Q50TU-AUC really comes down to what you want to achieve.

If your main goal is to simply replace your old phone line with a modern, reliable cellular or internet communication path to a central station, and you already have or plan to purchase a Resideo LTEM-P series communicator, the PRODCM is a straightforward and effective solution.

However, if you're looking to not only upgrade your communication path but also add smart control to your existing system, the Alarm.com AUC LX30B is the clear winner. The ability to remotely arm and disarm your system and receive notifications through the powerful Alarm.com platform brings a whole new level of convenience and peace of mind to an older alarm panel.

Qolsys is rebranding as IQ, taking a cue from its product line. IQ's parent company, JCI, announced the change on July 1, 2025. The end-user-facing site has already been updated with new branding. It will likely take a little longer for product packaging to follow suit. But, what does this mean?

Honestly, for customers not a lot. I don't know what precipitated the change, but it could be the result of market research showing that IQ is a more recognizable name than Qolsys. Or, perhaps, just a name that is more positively viewed. Whatever the reason, the product line we've all come to know and love will remain unchanged.

Speaking of changes, IQ has a new panel lineup on the horizon. The IQ Panel 5 debuted at ISC West this year. This panel lineup will follow the format of the IQ4 systems. Meaning there will be a good version in the IQ5 NS. A better version in the IQ5 Hub, and a best option in the IQ Panel 5. The differences that exist in the similar IQ Panel 4 lineup will be mirrored in the IQ5 series.

IQ Panel 5

Let’s start with the highlight of the new IQ Panel lineup, the upcoming IQ Panel 5. This next-generation panel will build on the foundation of the IQ Panel 4, launching with base firmware equivalent to version 4.6.1 — likely renamed as 5.0 for the new release.

The IQ Panel 5 will feature a Qualcomm Dragonwing™ chipset and run on Android 14, a big upgrade from the IQ Panel 4’s Qualcomm Snapdragon™ chipset and Android 9 base. This major update paves the way for new and enhanced features and a refreshed user experience, with future refinements driven by customer feedback once the system is in use.

With its base firmware, the IQ Panel 5 will support PowerG+ devices right out of the box. Another key improvement is how the panels will be configured and offered. Every IQ Panel 5 model will include a built-in PowerG transceiver rather than a PowerG daughter card. This includes the IQ5 Hub and IQ5 NS. If support for a legacy SRF frequency is needed, it can easily be added with a simple daughter card. This makes selecting the right panel variant much more straightforward.

The panel’s front-facing camera has also been improved. Instead of being adjustable up and down, the camera is now fixed in place, but rotated 90 degrees to provide a portrait view rather than a landscape one. This means the camera can capture clear disarm images whether the user is a child or an adult. The camera resolution has also been improved, increasing from 9MP to 13MP for better image clarity.

The following improvements have also been made:

• LEDs: Smaller, less glaring.
• Power Supply: Now uses a 12VDC power supply, allowing for longer power wire runs and better overall operation.
• Mounting Plate: Improvements have been made to the smart mount layout so that it better lines up with single, double, and triple gang boxes.
• Power Terminals: A new terminal block design uses pins rather than blades to connect the panel with power (when the barrel connector is not being used). This prevents power fluctuations during touchscreen use, when the panel may flex against the mounting plate.
• Panel Tamper: The panel tamper has been moved slightly toward the center of the unit and is now a solid plastic piece, rather than a foam-tipped one.

IQ5 Hub

The IQ5 Hub, assuming it will follow in the footsteps of the IQ4 Hub will still be a powerhouse system, but will be slightly less feature-rich than the IQ Panel 5. The table below shows a comparison between the IQ Panel 4 and the IQ4 Hub. This will give an idea of the differences we can expect between the IQ Panel 5 and the IQ5 Hub.

Feature Comparison between the IQ Panel 4 and the IQ4 Hub:

(Features that differ are highlighted in yellow)

IQ5 NS

The IQ5 NS is a screenless version of the IQ Panel 5. While full specifications have not yet been released, the differences between these two systems will likely mirror those between the IQ4 NS and the IQ Panel 4. For the DIY installer, the most significant change will be the programming, which is handled through an app or web portal rather than an integrated touchscreen.

For local programming, the IQ Installer Interface app must be used. This is a free app available from the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. This allows you to connect to the panel via its built in wireless access point and program using the phone or tablet's touchscreen. The programming interface is very similar to programming through the panel's touchscreen. Below, you can see an example of the screen used to connect to an IQ4 NS.

The IQ5 NS is an excellent choice for those on a budget who still want many of the great features associated with IQ panels. These features include Z-Wave Plus with Z-Wave Long Range support, support for PowerG, and an updated Qualcomm Dragonwing™ processor. The chart below shows a comparison between all three versions of the IQ4 panel line. It's safe to assume that the differences between the panels in the IQ5 lineup will be similar.

So, the brand name change from Qolsys to IQ won't affect any existing customers or their products, and it won't change the product lineup, or the roadmap for future products. It's just less of a mouthful when discussing the brand and its products, and that's a good thing!

Alarm Grid is closed today, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. This holiday gives us a chance to relax and enjoy time with our families. We hope you're doing the same! On Monday, July 7, we'll return to our normal schedule. Tech support will be available from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM EDT.

Please remember that our commitment to your safety and security never takes a holiday! Our 24/7 central station partners will remain fully staffed and operational throughout the holiday. Dedicated operators are always ready to process any alarms or other signals from your security system, ensuring uninterrupted protection for your home or business.

You can rest easy knowing that even when our administrative team is away, your alarm system is being monitored, and signals processed around the clock. If you need to contact the monitoring station to cancel an alarm, or verify a signal, it's easy:

Alarm Grid Monitored Customers In the United States:

• Contact Criticom Monitoring Service (CMS) by calling 888-818-7728 and choosing Option 9.
• Be ready to provide the monitoring station operator with your name, address, and your false alarm password. If you provide the wrong password, or provide the duress password, they will dispatch authorities, so be prepared.

Alarm Grid Monitored Customers In Canada:

• Contact Rapid Response by calling (800) 932-3822 and following the prompts.
• Be prepared to provide the operator with you name, address, and false alarm password. If you provide the wrong password, or the duress password, the operator will dispatch authorities.

The monitoring station can't take requests for account changes, billing inquiries, vacation scheduling, or other administrative tasks. If you need to contact Alarm Grid for those types of issues please send us an email. Our email address is support@alarmgrid.com. If you prefer to speak to someone, you can call us at 888-818-7728 during our regular business hours. Please be patient on Monday while we process any backlogged requests received during the long weekend.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

The Alarm Grid support office will be closed at 6:00 pm EDT tonight. The late shift support staff is out of the office. We will return tomorrow, Wednesday, June 26 at our regular time of 9:00 AM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

If you need to contact the monitoring station to check signals or cancel an alarm, you can do so using the regular methods. For customers in the United States, call 888-818-7728 and choose Option 9 to reach Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS). For Canadian customers, call (800) 932-3822

Today, June 19, 2025, Alarm Grid's offices are closed in observance of Juneteenth, the United States' most recently established national holiday. This means we won't be here to provide technical support or activate new accounts. We'll return to our regular hours on Friday, June 20, 2025.

On June 17, 2021, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was signed into law, officially making June 19, the day of the original Juneteenth celebration, a nationally recognized holiday in the United States. As a result, most banks, federal offices, and the USPS will be closed on this day.

For our Alarm Grid monitored customers, it's business as usual! All monitoring activities will continue normally, and customers will full monitoring plans can still contact the monitoring station to verify signals or put your system on test. Your alarm signal processing remains unaffected by the holiday.

Operators at Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS) and Rapid Response (for our Canadian customers) are available at all times. Customers in the U.S. can call (888) 818-7728 and choose Option [9] at the prompt. This will send you directly to CMS. Canadian customers can reach Rapid Response by calling (800) 932-3822 and following the prompts.

Regardless which monitoring station you call, you should be ready to provide your name, address, and false alarm password. Be sure to provide the correct false alarm password to the operator. Providing the duress password or an incorrect password will result in a dispatch of the authorities.

If you need to make changes to your account, change the way an alarm is treated, update your zone list, change your false alarm password, or have any other "housekeeping" tasks to perform on your system, the monitoring station can't help you with those.

You can either email your request, which is preferred, or you can wait and call when we're back in the office. Our email is support@alarmgrid.com. Our phone number is (888) 818-7728. We'll be back on Friday, June 20 at 9:00 AM EDT, ready to assist you. Please allow us a bit of time to catch up on any backlogged requests. From everyone here at Alarm Grid, we hope you have a relaxing and peaceful Juneteenth celebration!

No more hunting through your Alarm.com app activity screen, trying to piece together the reason for an alarm on your system. Alarm Recap, a new feature from Alarm.com, summarizes all events occurring just before, during, and after an alarm. Giving you a complete recap with a single glance.

To see this new feature, you must have an Alarm.com account and iOS app version 5.9.7+ or Android app 5.7.6+. This feature has been slowly rolling out over the past couple of weeks, so if you're on the latest version and don't see it yet, don't worry, it's coming. The alarm recap becomes available on the app Home screen ten (10) minutes after the alarm's conclusion (i.e. post disarm).

Each recap covers activity and video from five (5) minutes before the alarm, events that occur during the alarm, and events up to three (3) minutes after the alarm. While most alarm types trigger a recap, in-app property panic alarms and water monitoring events are not included.

Alarm Recap: What You'll See

• The Sensor/Event that triggered the alarm.
• Relevant video footage (i.e., People, Vehicle, Animal, etc.)
• Recent activity leading up to, and during, the alarm.
• The user that disarmed after the alarm.
• Monitoring station events.
• Tamper or Malfunction Events.

Alarm Recap: Who Can View

All logins with the ability to view Activity have access to the alarm recap. This includes users with Master, Full Control, Read-Only, and Custom logins with the attribute for Activity enabled. Additionally, Master, Full Control, and Custom logins that can arm/disarm remotely can also provide feedback on Alarm Recap. This feedback is used to make improvements to Alarm.com features.

Alarm Recap: How To View

When you log into the app, the alarm recap is available from the Home Dashboard screen. You can also reach it by choosing Activity from the menu options at the bottom of the screen. From the activity screen tap the alarm event row, then tap Alarm Recap.

Alarm Recap: Other Details

If you have a partitioned system, the alarm recap will include each partition that reported an alarm. For commercial accounts with multiple locations, the alarm recap can be viewed from the individual business system's location rather than from the Enterprise Group level.

If multiple alarms occur in a 24 hour period, only the most recent alarm will be shown in the alarm recap. Information for prior alarms can be viewed from the Activity screen. The alarm recap is only available after the alarm has been cleared (the system disarmed). You won't see it during an active alarm.

The Alarm Recap feature is a game-changer when it comes to understanding what's happening with your security system. No more guessing or scrolling endlessly through activity logs!

This new feature gives you a clear, concise summary of alarm events, delivering crucial information like triggering sensors, relevant video, and who disarmed the system, all in one easy-to-digest view. It’s designed to save you time and give you peace of mind by providing immediate clarity when an alarm occurs.

Get the Full Picture with Video

To truly unlock the power of Alarm Recap and see exactly what triggered an alarm, we highly recommend adding Alarm.com's video monitoring to your system. Without video, you'll still get a great summary of events, but with it, you'll literally see the complete picture, allowing you to quickly verify incidents and take appropriate action.

Alarm.com has a tremendous suite of video cameras and peripherals. If you have a scenario, they likely have a camera that will work perfectly in it. Alarm Grid offers video monitoring with security in our Platinum Plans (Self or Full). We also offer stand-alone video monitoring, though you won't get an Alarm Recap with a video-only plan.

Qolsys IQ4 software version 4.6.1 is set to drop on June 9, and it's a BIG update. From support for PowerG+, including the new PowerG+/Z-Wave touchscreen door lock, to the all-new water tile, we're going to discuss what you can expect from this huge software update. Come, let's get into it!

The plan is for this software to be posted on June 9, 2025. That could change, but I would be surprised if it does. That doesn't mean that you'll be able to go to Menu > Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer or Dealer Code (1111, 2222 respectively, by default) > Upgrade Software > Upgrade Using Network and the panel will go out there and find 4.6.1 and install it.

When a new version is released, particularly a large one like this, it's usually only available by entering a Patch Tag at the panel, or by pushing it over-the-air through Alarm.com. This kind of slow rollout allows the update to be further vetted, making sure there are no previously unnoticed issues that need to be corrected. After the software has been out for a little while, it will be available for a blind upgrade, as described in the previous paragraph.

New Features in 4.6.1

Support for PowerG+ Devices and Features:

The following new PowerG+ sensors will be supported. This link has product images and links. The links below are for the specification sheets:

• PGP9303 - Vanishing Door/Window Sensor
• PGP9945E - Door/Window Sensor with Aux Input
• PGP9914 - Indoor PIR
• PGP9922 - Glass Break Sensor
• PGP9920 - Repeater
• PGP9934P - Indoor Cam PIR
• PGP9976 - Smoke Detector
• PGP9986 - Water Tile
• PGPIOX - PowerG+ Input/Output Module (PGM)
• PowerG+ 3-Way Switch and Dimmer

In addition to the list of newly supported devices, there are also features associated with PowerG+ that will only be supported in 4.6.1+. One such feature is Dealer Lockdown, which allows an alarm dealer to lock a PowerG+ sensor to their unique dealer code. This prevents another dealer from simply taking and reusing that sensor with a different panel. While this offers a significant level of control for traditional security companies, it doesn't really affect Alarm Grid customers.

Another addition for PowerG+ devices is battery level reporting to Alarm.com. This feature allows alarm dealers to view the battery status of all PowerG+ sensors on a system at a glance. This insight enables dealers to efficiently schedule service calls, replacing multiple low batteries in a single visit rather than making separate trips for each individual alert. This is a powerful operational benefit for traditional alarm companies, streamlining their maintenance processes.

Alarm Grid customers probably won't notice this feature, unless they're working with tech support on an issue for a PowerG sensor. Customers can always view battery status for compatible PowerG devices through the panel by going to "System Tests > PowerG Test" in the "Advanced Settings" menu. You can access this option using the Installer Code/Dealer Code/Master Code (1111, 2222, 1234, respectively, by default).

And finally, support for a maintenance warning for the new PGP9976 Smoke Detector is added in Software 4.6.1. Photoelectric smoke detectors have a sensing chamber with a photo sensor. Generally speaking, when smoke enters the chamber, it causes light to refract, hitting the photo sensor and causing an alarm. Over time, dust, dirt, cobwebs, and other debris can get into the sensing chamber, causing false alarms. The smoke detector can sense when this is happening and notify the panel, letting you know you need to clean the sensing chamber.

Additional New Features (Not Associated with PowerG+):

• Video Events to Panel: Analytic video event thumbnails, and annunciation of these events, can now be displayed on, and announced by, the IQ Panel 4 and IQ4 Hub. This means, based on your settings, you can receive an audible/visual notification with an image thumbnail directly on the panel. You'll be able to tell immediately if it's a person, a package drop-off, an animal, etc. based on the type of camera and the analytics rule configuration.
• Ambient Temperature Display: Now, the Dealer, Installer, or Admin user can select up to two (2) compatible PowerG/PowerG+ devices to show their ambient temperature on the Panel UI and Weather Clock.
• Silent Disarming: Now, when the system is armed Stay, users will see a "Silent Disarming" option on the panel UI. So, when you come home after working the night shift, you can enter and disarm without disturbing those who are still asleep.
• Mute Life-Safety Trouble Sounds: An option has been added to allow life-safety trouble sounds to be muted while the panel is in NightTime mode. Once the panel returns to regular operation, the trouble sounds will be annunciated.
• Support for Dark Mode on IQ Remote PG: Configurable per remote touchscreen. Hopefully, the option to have the panel and touchscreens follow Sunset/Sunrise and switch automatically will be in a future release.
• Adjust the order of Devices in the Lighting Screen: Users with a long list of automated lighting devices can now drag the most commonly used devices to the top of the list. This prevents having to scroll and search for them each time you want to control them manually.
• User Bypass Attribute: When creating a user code via the panel user interface, you can now select whether or not this user is allowed to bypass zones in order to arm. This feature requires that "Secure Arming" be enabled. Secure arming disables quick arming and requires a user code for every arming.
• Ecobee Thermostat Support: Ecobee thermostats that work with Alarm.com can now also be seen/controlled through the IQ panel UI.

This isn't everything included in this build, but it highlights what I believe are some of the more exciting additions. When the release notes become available, we'll post them to the site and update this post. There are a few bug fixes, and minor updates as well. The shade icon has been updated. The user interface for dimming lights has been improved. The Z-Wave firmware for the panel is updated from V7.15 to V7.18, improving performance for large networks.

This will be the base build for the new Qolsys IQ Panel 5 lineup, which will debut some time later in the year. Following the format set forth by the IQ4 lineup, there will be a Qolsys IQ5NS, IQ5 Hub, and IQ Panel 5, adhering to the "Good, Better, Best" philosophy. We'll have more on these new panels as information seeps out.

Spring is here and today we observe Memorial Day. What started in the late 1800s as Decoration Day, a time to honor fallen Civil War soldiers, has transformed over the years. In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson declared the last Monday in May to be Memorial Day by signing the Uniform Holiday Act.

The Alarm Grid offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on Monday May 26, 2025. We won't be answering calls for technical support or activating new accounts. This is an opportunity for our dedicated staff to relax and enjoy time with their families. Working in security can be stressful and everyone needs a break from time to time!

We'll be back in the office on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 for our regular support hours (9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time). If you have an inquiry over the holiday weekend, feel free to email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We'll prioritize support emails on Tuesday and get back to you as quickly as possible. Please be patient while we respond to all requests.

If you have full central station monitoring with Alarm Grid know that our central station partners, Criticom Monitoring Services (United States customers) and Rapid Response (Canadian customers) are available at all times. If you need to verify or cancel an alarm, or put your system or a sensor on test, you can contact them. You can reach Rapid Response at (800) 932-3822.

Customers in the U.S. can call (888) 818-7728 and choose Option [9] at the prompt. This will send you directly to Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS). Regardless which monitoring station you call, you will need to be ready with your name, address, and false alarm password. Be sure it's the false alarm password that you provide to the operator. Not the duress password and not an incorrect password. Providing the wrong information will result in a dispatch of the authorities.

If you need to make changes to your account, change the way an alarm is treated, update your zone list, change your false alarm password, or have any other "housekeeping" tasks for your system, the monitoring station can't help you with those You can either email the request, which is preferred, or you can wait and call when we're back in the office.

What started as a way to honor fallen Civil War soldiers now extends to all who died in U.S. conflicts. I remember calling my father on Memorial Day to thank him for his service. He told me I had the wrong day, that was for Veteran's Day. I knew, I just wanted an extra opportunity to thank him for coming home. Today, we especially honor those who were not so fortunate, and their families.

The impressive DSC PowerG+ lineup is coming soon, offering a suite of powerful new features. You can soon access convenient over-the-air firmware updates, live battery level reporting, and easy system pairing. Completing this update, the entire lineup will feature a unified, modern look.

One thing that won't change with PowerG+ is the staggering transmission range you can expect from each sensor. Both PowerG and PowerG+ offer a reliable transmitting range of up to 1.24 miles or 1.99 km! It is unlikely you'll need a repeater with these sensors, but if you do, a PowerG+ repeater is available.

In many cases, you may not need a repeater, but the installation of a repeater could save money on sensor batteries. That's because like PowerG, the PowerG+ sensors use adaptive transmission. That means the sensor communicates with the receiver to determine what the minimum necessary transmitting power is to reach it. By determining and then using this minimum required transmission strength, the sensor conserves battery power.

PowerG+ Sensors

Here we'll list all the PowerG+ Sensors we know about currently, and provide a brief description of each. Something all PowerG+ sensors have in common is backward compatibility, or what they call "fallback mode". What this means is that any panel that supports PowerG will work with these sensors.

However, in the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 lineup, for example, the panel will need to be on software version 4.6.0 to fully support all of the PowerG+ added features, such as battery level reporting and over-the-air firmware updates.

DSC PGP9303 - Vanishing Door/Window Sensor

Say goodbye to frustrating installation with the new DSC PGP9303 Vanishing Door/Window Sensor. This slim contact comes with a brilliantly designed, full-length magnet that matches the sensor's height. No longer do you need to pinpoint the sweet spot for magnet placement; just ensure the magnet is anywhere along the correct side of the sensor for consistent and reliable operation.

The PGP9303 comes in white, but replacement plastic shells are available in black, grey, and brown. The colored plastics will likely be sold in quantities of five (5) or ten (10) per SKU. The details on that are not yet available. Either way, once you receive the colored plastic, just pop the printed circuit board and the magnet out of their white plastic shells and pop them into the replacements. Then mount using either screws or two-sided foam tape.

Quick Specs:

• Battery Type: 3 V Lithium CR2450 Panasonic, Duracell, or GP battery only.
• Dimensions: 2.7" x 1.2" x 0.5" (68 mm x 31 mm x 12 mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C) UL verified temp range: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) only
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz

PGP9303 Magnet Gap Spacing Details:

DSC PGP9945E Door/Window Contact with Aux Input

The DSC PGP9945E sensor is a versatile door/window contact featuring an auxiliary wired zone input. This smart design allows you to secure two separate openings with a single transmitter, maximizing efficiency. While not as ultra-slim as the PGP9303, this device maintains a small form factor and boasts the same impressive transmitting range.

Like the PGP9303, the PGP9945E comes in white, but color plastic replacements can be ordered in black, gray, or brown. Both the sensor and the magnet plastic can be replaced with the color option of your choice. The full-size magnet also simplifies magnet placement during installation.

The auxiliary wired input can be configured for normally open, normally closed, single end-of-line, double end-of-line, or triple end-of-line resistor supervision.The resistor value used is 5.6 KΩ.

In addition to securing multiple points, the PGP9945E is equipped with ambient temperature sensing capabilities. Although Qolsys and Alarm.com have not yet detailed their plans for this data, it could potentially be used to inform and optimize your building's climate control system, allowing for more precise automation based on real-time temperature readings from various points.

Quick Specs:

• Battery Type: 3 V Lithium CR123A GP battery only.
• Battery life: 8 years with typical use at room temperature.
• Dimensions: 3.5" x 1.5" x 1.2" (89 mm x 37 mm x 30 mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C) UL verified range: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) only
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz
• Auxiliary Input Wire Length Limit: 32.8' (10 m) using 22 AWG.

PGP9945E Magnet Gap Spacing Details:

DSC PGP9914 Indoor Motion PIR Detector

The DSC PGP9914 PowerG+ Indoor Motion PIR sensor offers robust security detection with several advanced features. It boasts an expanded range, capable of detecting motion up to 39.3' (12m) away. The sensor incorporates True Motion Recognition™, an advanced algorithm that helps differentiate between actual intruder movement and other potential disturbances, like curtains being moved by air currents, significantly reducing false alarms.

For households with pets, the PGP9914 includes optional built-in pet immunity, which can prevent false alarms caused by animals weighing up to 85 pounds (38 kg). Sensor management is simplified through battery level reporting and over-the-air updates to add features and provide issue resolution. Additionally, installation is made easy with features like battery pull tabs and QR codes instead of an enrollment button. Some PowerG sensors offered this simplified enrollment, but all PowerG+ sensors have it.

Quick Specs:

• Battery Type: 3 V Lithium CR123A Panasonic, Duracell, and GP only.
• Battery life: 6 to 8 years with typical use at room temperature.
• Dimensions: 3.4" x 2.5" x 1.6" (86 mm x 63 mm x 40 mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C) UL verified range: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) only
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz
• Maximum Coverage Area: 39' (12 m) 90°.
• Pet Immunity Limit: Up to 85 Lbs (38 kg).

DSC PGP9934P Indoor PIR Cam

The DSC PGP9934P PowerG+ Indoor PIR Cam is the next generation in motion detection. This device combines advanced PIR capabilities with powerful visual verification, delivering improved, high-resolution color images and video clips viewable in real time via the Alarm.com app. It offers fast alarm verification, allowing users to receive real-time visual alarm confirmation upon motion detection.

The extended camera range covers up to 40' (12m) in daylight and 33' (10m) in darkness, ensuring optimal room coverage. For motion detection, it provides 40' x 40' (12m x 12m) coverage at a 90° angle, with optional built-in pet immunity to reduce false alarms caused by pets.

Quick Specs:

• Battery Type: (2) 3 V Lithium CR123A
• Battery life: 5 years with typical use at room temperature.
• Recommended Mounting Height:
  • 6' - 8' (1.8m - 2.4m) - Non pet-tolerant
  • 6' - 7' (1.8m - 2.1m) - Pet-tolerant
• Dimensions: 4.9" x 2.5" x 24" (125 mm x 63 mm x 60 mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 122°F (-10°C - +50°C)
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz
• Maximum Coverage Area: 40' x 40' (12m x 12m)/90°.
• Camera Type: CMOS
• Camera Range: 40' (12m) in Daytime, 33' (10m) in Complete Darkness
• Color & Resolution (Color and B&W):
  • QVGA: (320 x 240 pixels)
  • QQVGA: (160 x 120 pixels)
  • HD: (1280 × 720 pixels, Peek-In only)
  • VGA: (640 x 480 pixels)
• Frame Rate: Up to 2 frames per second
• Camera Angle: 90° Wide Angle
• Camera Response: Instant capture functionality

DSC PGP9922 Glass Break Detector

Safeguarding your windows and glass doors is essential, and the DSC PGP9922 PowerG+ Glass Break Detector delivers advanced, reliable detection for your home or business. This detector offers an impressive glass break detection range of up to 25' (7.6m), or 20 feet (6m) depending on the size of the protected glass. Beyond its robust performance, it features a modern design that seamlessly integrates into any aesthetic without compromising security.

Installation is remarkably easy, thanks to convenient battery pull tabs and QR codes for quick device enrollment. For ongoing management, the detector supports over-the-air updates for remote sensor upgrades and provides battery life reporting allowing you and your alarm dealer to monitor sensor battery levels. Best of all, the PG9922 comes fully calibrated, eliminating the need for manual adjustments during installation.

Arguably the best feature of this new glass break detector is its appearance. In the past, consumers have often prioritized motion detectors over glass break detectors, in spite of the fact that a glass break sensor can prevent a break in while a motion detector is usually engaged only after an intrusion has occurred. I believe one reason for that is that glass break sensors have historically been...well, ugly. The DSC PGP9922 aims to change that.

Quick Specs:

• Battery Type: (2) 3 V Lithium CR123A, GP or Panasonic only
• Battery life: 5 years with typical use at room temperature (77°F (25°C) Note: Not evaluated by UL/ULC).
• Minimum Distance from Glass: 5' (1.5m)
• Dimensions: 4.2" x 2.7" x 1.2" (107.5mm x 69mm x 30mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 120°F (-10°C - +48.8°C) UL verified range: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) only
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz
• Max Detection Range:
  • 25' (7.6m) For Glass that is a Minimum of 15 3/4" x 15 3/4" (40cm x 40cm)
  • 20' (6m) For Glass between 12" x 12" (30cm x 30cm) to 15 3/4" x 15 3/4" (40cm x 40cm)
  • For UL/ULC the maximum verified range is 20' (6m).
• Glass Type: UL Tested on Plate, tempered, wired, laminated, covered, and sealed insulated.
• Glass Thickness (per UL tests):
  • Plate: 1/8" - 1/4" (3.2mm - 6.4mm)
  • Tempered: 1/8" - 1/4" (3.2mm - 6.4mm)
  • Wired: 1/4" (6.4mm)
  • Coated: 1/8" - 1/4" (3.2mm - 6.4mm)
  • Laminated: 1/4" (6.4mm)
  • Sealed Insulating: 1/8" - 1/4" (3.2mm - 6.4mm)
  • NOTE: Laminated and Sealed Insulating glass are protected only if both the inner and outer panes are broken.
• Room Size:
  • At least 10' x 10' (3m x 3m)
  • At most 40' x 40' (12m x 12m)

DSC PGP9986 PowerG+ Water Tile - Flood and Freeze Sensor

The DSC PGP9986 is a PowerG+ flood and freeze detector commonly referred to as the Water Tile. It can detect water leaks from sinks, dishwashers, washing machines, and any other area where water is used, but the floor should remain dry. It also has the option to alert you when the temperature drops, allowing you to prevent burst pipes.

The Water Tile can be used alone or with an external probe or sensing cable. You can check out the installation instructions. The external probe must be used alone while up to two (2) sensing cables can be used by connecting the second cable into the end of the first. The probe and sensing cable come with a wall mounting bracket that they connect to. The Water Tile then slides into the bracket and clicks into place. Since the sensor itself should not be submerged, it is best to use a probe or cable when monitoring areas where the water might get too deep for the Water Tile itself.

Quick Specs:

• Power Supply: Battery.
• Battery Type: 2 x 3V Lithium CR2450 Panasonic, Duracell, or GP batteries only.
• Expected Battery Life: 5 years with typical use at room temperature 77°F (25°C).
• Ingress Protection (IP) Rating: IP65.
• Freeze Alert Temperature (Ambient): 41˚F (5˚C)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C)
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 2.6" x 2.6" x 0.43" (65 mm x 65 mm x 11 mm)

DSC PGP9920 PowerG+ Wireless Repeater

The DSC PGP9920 PowerG+ Wireless Repeater is installed in the field, usually at the edge of the PowerG receiver's range. It listens for PowerG and PowerG+ sensor transmissions. If it hears a transmission, it repeats it to ensure that it reaches the receiver. The PGP9920 has it's own power source, but like the alarm panel it works with, it also has a backup battery to provide 48 hours of standby power in the event of a power failure. This keeps your entire system up and running in the event of an extended power outage.

For supervision purposes, the PGP9920 is programmed into the panel as a zone. This allows the panel to supervise the repeater for power outages, low battery conditions, and tamper. The PGP9920 has both a cover and a back tamper. So, whether it's pulled off the wall, or the cover is removed, the alarm panel can signal a tamper condition.

As we mentioned before, PowerG and PowerG+ devices use adaptive transmission when communicating with the alarm system. This allows the sensor or repeater to use only as much power as is necessary to send a signal. This helps to conserve battery power, and is why these devices have such long battery life. For this reason, even when a repeater isn't necessary, it may be worthwhile to add one in particularly large installations to help conserve power.

Quick Specs:

• Power Supply: 100-240 VAC to 6V/1A DC For UL Listed product, 120 VAC, 60 Hz. Sure-Power type SW-060100A.
• Battery Type: Rechargeable. 3.6 V 2200 mAh Li-ion Q-LITE type ICR18650.
• Backup Battery Duration: At least 48 Hours, for UL Listed product 24 Hours.
• Dimensions: 7.1" x 7.1" x 1.9" (180mm x 180mm x 48mm)
• Operating Temperature: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) UL verified range: 32°F - 120°F (0°C - +49°C) only
• Frequency Band: 912 MHz - 919 MHz

Most of these PowerG+ products are not yet available, with the exception of the DSC PGP9934P Indoor PIR Cam. Those are available right now! So, if you click on any of the other product links above, you'll see some crazy pricing. This is so that we can prepare for the products to go live, while discouraging anyone from attempting to order a product that's not yet available.

Once these products become available, we'll have another blog with that announcement and the actual pricing will go up on the page. We're just excited about this launch and want to make the full product descriptions available now, rather than waiting. Product availability will very likely coincide closely with the release of the 4.6.0 software update for the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 systems, so be on the lookout for that as well.

Update 6:46 PM 05/12/25: Per AlarmNet and Resideo, both Total Connect 2.0 and alarm communications are fully restored. This update isn't time stamped, so it's unclear exactly when services were restored. Alarm dealers may continue to see some issues in programming legacy devices and video-only accounts. PRO Series and VISTAH3 device programming is completely restored.

Original Post:

AlarmNet has alerted all dealers to an issue with their communicators that began at 8:15 AM today. They are investigating the issue and working diligently toward a solution. Preliminary investigation shows that this interruption is not the result of malicious activity or a security breach.

What You May See:

As a result of this issue, you may have seen a communicator failure message on your system. This could show up as a "Check 103" message, "Reporter Failure", and possibly others. You may also have noticed issues logging into Total Connect 2.0, or delays or failures in completing commands using TC2.

According to AlarmNet, they are seeing some system recovery with improvements in latency, etc. However, the AlarmNet network is still not at 100%, so if you notice an issue logging into Total Connect 2.0, or an issue with sluggish or failed command execution, this is why.

In the past, we've seen queued signals and notifications being delivered once communication is restored. This can present as a notification coming through that seems out of place. For example, you may receive a notification that your system was disarmed when you know that you armed it. This is just a disarm notification from a previous instance that was delayed in being delivered. The best thing to do is log into Total Connect 2.0 and verify your system status. You can check the panel's event log to confirm exactly what has taken place on your system.

What You Can Do:

If you receive a trouble message on your system you silence it by acknowledging it. This process can vary depending on what system you're using. On a VISTA system, press any key on the keypad to silence the trouble beeping. Enter a disarm sequence by pressing your four-digit code plus one (1) or OFF. Do this twice.

If the communication issue has been resolved, the second disarm command will clear the trouble message from your keypad. If not, the message will remain until the condition has been resolved and you enter a disarm command again.

On the various touchscreen panels or keypads, you should be able to follow prompts on the display to silence and clear the trouble message. On the PRO Series panels, tap the red alert indicator at the bottom right of the display. This will silence the trouble beep and bring up the alert screen. Any active trouble conditions will be displayed. Press "Clear" at the upper right and enter a valid user code.

As with a VISTA system, if the trouble condition has been resolved, this will clear the display. If not, the message will remain under "Active Issues" until the trouble condition is resolved. In this case, until whatever is causing the communication problems has been taken care of. Once the condition has been resolved, press "Clear" again and enter your user code to clear the message.

Stay tuned, as we receive updates we'll update this blog post with any available information.