DIY Security Systems Posts

Hi DIYers! We have learned that there is a radio firmware update for the PowerG Daughtercard used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems. The new radio firmware is v80.25, and it provides various fixes for sensor compatibilities. The update can be applied by entering a patch tag.

The new radio firmware for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Daughtercard provides some general fixes for using the system with PowerG Sensors. According to Qolsys, radio firmware version 80.25 fixes a transmission delay that occurs when PowerG Sensors are enrolled on IQ Panel 2 Plus Zones 1, 2, and 3. It also corrects the PowerG compatibility issues that many users experienced when trying to use the PowerG PG9914 Wireless Motion Sensor and the PowerG PG9933 Wireless Carbon Monoxide Sensor on radio firmware version 80.17.

There are two ways for Alarm Grid monitored customers to apply this firmware update. The first is to contact us to have the firmware update pushed down automatically from Alarm.com. This will require a small added fee, which will be applied to the customer's next bill. If you want to update the radio firmware for free, you can perform it manually by completing the following steps:

1. Click the small grey bat at the top of the main screen.
2. Press Settings.
3. Press Advanced Settings.
4. Enter Installer Code (default 1111).
5. Press Upgrade Software.
6. Press Patch Tag.
7. Enter v3cardfix1 and press OK.
8. Press Upgrade Using Network.

Please note that the panel must be connected to WIFI for the update to go through. It may take several minutes for the panel to reboot and the update to be applied. After the process is complete. the panel will begin the re-sync process with all of the PowerG Sensors. You may notice reports of PowerG Sensors opening and closing during this time. This is normal. It may take up to 20 minutes for the re-sync process to complete. Your PowerG Zones should be operating like normal after this process.

Please note that only IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems with a PowerG radio firmware of 80.XX are affected by this upgrade. If you have a PowerG radio firmware of 4.XX, you will notice that the radio firmware does not change to 80.25. The update will still go through, but no noticeable changes will be made. Again, this is normal. If you want to check your firmware, complete the following steps:

1. Click the small grey bat at the top of the main screen.
2. Press Settings.
3. Press Advanced Settings.
4. Enter Installer Code (default 1111).
5. Press About.
6. Press PowerG.
7. Locate the Radio Firmware Version.

Below is an example of a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus with radio firmware version 4.06:

If you have any questions about this radio firmware update, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728. Keep in mind that our office hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Locations Suitable for Installing Heat Detectors

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

Resideo Lyric Alarm System Vs. Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

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

Compatible Back-Up Battery for the 2GIG GC3

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

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

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

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

Resideo has announced that the Lyric Gateway System has been discontinued, effective immediately. You can no longer purchase the Gateway from the Alarm Grid website. Fortunately, the vastly superior Lyric Controller is still available for purchase if you decide to go with a Resideo System.

The Lyric Gateway was a unique system. It offered no option for end user programming. Instead, all programming had to be done remotely by an alarm monitoring company. This did not fit the DIY model of Alarm Grid. As a DIY monitoring company, we try to empower our customers by encouraging them to complete their own programming and learn how their systems work. Because of this, the Lyric Gateway was never a good product for us. We carried it to offer as many options for our customers as possible.

There are a few Alarm Grid customers with active Lyric Gateway Security Systems. We want them to rest assured that we will continue to support their panels for as long as we can. The Gateway System even has an AT&T LTE Communicator available, the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A. Installing and activating this communicator will ensure that a Gateway System can remain monitored for many years to come. Please note that the upcoming Verizon LTE Communicator for the Lyric will not work with the Gateway.

If you are looking for a new Resideo Security System, the Lyric Controller is still the recommended option. This panel is actively being supported with new add-on releases and new firmware updates. This is evidenced by the upcoming Verizon LTE Communicator and the MR9 Firmware Update to support this new module. Even with the new Resideo ProSeries System eventually coming to the market, we expect Resideo to maintain active support for the Lyric and their existing LYNX Touch Systems for a long time. For more information on the MR9 Firmware update, please click here.

If you have any questions about the discontinuation of the Lyric Gateway, please reach out to us at support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Hi DIYers! We are very happy to announce that software revision 1.09 is now available for the Resideo Lyric Security System. This software revision is more commonly known as firmware update MR9, and it can be downloaded for free by any end user with active alarm monitoring service.

The biggest addition that comes from firmware update MR9 is support for the upcoming Verizon LTE Communicator. We expect this communicator to be released sometime later this summer. Support for the existing AT&T LTE Communicator is also carried over to MR9. The update can be pushed down from the Resideo AlarmNet Servers and is completely free of charge. In order for the update to take effect, the system must be disarmed, with no trouble conditions present.

If you want to apply the update yourself when the system is disarmed, you can do so by entering the following commands from the main Lyric screen: Security > Tools > Installer Code (default 4112) > Update Firmware. The button will grey out to confirm that it was selected. Then return to the home screen using the return arrow in the upper-right corner. The update process should begin automatically.

Depending on the speed of the communication path, the update process can take anywhere from a few minutes to up to an hour. The system will then reboot to apply the update. If you want to confirm the update, go to Security > Tools > Master Code (default 1234) > Advanced > System Information. The listed Revision on the top line should start with 1.09.

If you want more information about the MR9 update, please check the associated release notes. If you have any further questions about the MR9 update, please reach out to us. The best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We would like to inform you that the VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contacts have received an update. These changes should not affect device compatibility or performance. However, they will effect the way these devices are enrolled with a panel and how maintenance is performed.

The VERSA-2GIG Contacts operate at 345 MHz. They are designed for use with 2GIG Systems (GC2 and GC3) and the Resideo Lyric Controller (Version MR3 or higher). These surface-mounted devices operate like any standard door and window contact sensor. Each unit includes a sensor and an accompanying magnet. The sensor is mounted on the door or window frame, while the magnet is mounted on the door or window itself. When the door or window is opened, the magnet will separate from the sensor and cause it to activate. The sensor will then alert the panel to let the system know that the door or window has been opened.

Alarm Grid recently learned that the VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Sensors have been updated. The new model enrolls using Loop 1 and has a convenient slide-off cover. Additionally, a tab on the side of the device indicates which side should be facing the accompanying magnet. This is a change from the older style. The old model of the VERSA-2GIG is enrolled using Loop 2 and has a pop-off cover. Both devices have a yellow inner board that allows you to differentiate them from the VERSA-GE Sensors (blue board) and the Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors (red board).

This change should not affect the performance of the VERSA-2GIG or its compatibility. At this time, we are only aware of changes to the VERSA-2GIG Sensors. We have not received any news of changes for the VERSA-GE Sensors or the Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors. Alarm Grid will produce an update post if we learn of any changes to these sensors.

At this time, we cannot control which version of the VERSA-2GIG Sensors you will receive when placing an order. Some old-style sensors are still being sent out, while other customers are reporting that they have received the new style. It is even possible that you may receive a mix of old and new VERSA-2GIG Sensors with a system kit. Please be aware that these sensors operate exactly the same, and you should not notice any difference in device performance. The new-style VERSA-2GIG Sensors work just as well as the old-style ones. The only functional difference is the cover.

Remember, if you have a new-style VERSA-2GIG Sensor with a slide-off cover, it will enroll to your system using Loop 1. If you have an old-style VERSA-2GIG Sensor with a pop-off cover, it will enroll to your system using Loop 2. You can always auto-enroll your sensor, and the Loop Number should populate automatically. We recommend auto-enrolling whenever possible to check device communication and to avoid making a mistake when manually entering the Serial Number.

If you have any questions about this change, please reach out to us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

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

Location of the MAC Address on a Honeywell L5210

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

Panels That Support Telguard HomeControl Flex

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

Resideo Total Connect 2.0 Recording Limits

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

SkyBell Video Clip Availability

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

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

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

Flood Sensor Notifications from a Lyric via Apple HomeKit

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

Learning the 5808W3 into a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

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

Products Supported on the Alarm.com Platform

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

Image Sensor and Alarm Panel Compatibility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is Alarm Monitoring?

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

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

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

What is a Central Monitoring Station?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is Self-Monitoring?

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

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

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

What is an Interactive Service Platform?

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

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

Let's Discuss Monitoring Plans!

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

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

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

Quick Plan Comparison

Bronze & Self-Bronze

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

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

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

Silver & Self-Silver

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

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

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

Gold & Self-Gold

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

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

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

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

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

Platinum & Self-Platinum

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

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

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

Other Monitoring Plans

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

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

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

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

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

Which Alarm Grid Plan Should I Choose?

Get Alarm Monitoring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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