News Posts

We’re proud to recognize our Technical Support Specialist, Gage, for completing last week's Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in 5 hours, 11 minutes, and 45 seconds. From a tight training schedule to overcoming injury, his journey to the finish line highlights true perseverance and dedication.

Gage’s background makes this accomplishment even more meaningful. Growing up, he stayed active playing football, baseball, and basketball, but long-distance running was never something he particularly enjoyed.

Even during his time serving on active duty in the U.S. Air Force from September 2020 to October 2025, running was more of a requirement than a passion. Stationed at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming as part of Security Forces, he built discipline and resilience that would later help him in taking on this challenge.

After leaving the military, Gage was encouraged by his mom to train alongside her for the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon. With limited time to prepare, he began training at the start of January, knowing he had a shorter window than most marathon runners would prefer.

The man and his motivation. Gage and his mom pose for post-race pics.

Training came with its own set of obstacles. Gage developed IT Band Syndrome, which caused sharp pain along the outside of his left knee and made it difficult to continue running consistently. At one point, it seemed like completing the race might be impossible.

IT Band Syndrome, is short for IlioTibial Band Syndrome (ITBS), and is a common overuse injury affecting those who are active in cycling, running, and other sports.

The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh, from the hip down to the shinbone (tibia). Its job is to help stabilize the knee during movement, especially when running or walking.

IT Band Syndrome occurs when this band becomes tight or irritated and starts to rub against the outer part of the knee joint. The resulting friction can lead to inflammation and pain.

The most common symptom of ITBS is a sharp or burning pain on the outside of the knee, which often worsens with activity, especially running downhill or over long distances. Some people may also feel tightness along the outer thigh or hip. Running a marathon while dealing with this condition makes Gage's success even more impressive!

Instead of stepping away, he adjusted his approach. By incorporating strength training and working through the setbacks, Gage stayed committed to his goal. On race day, that dedication paid off as he crossed the finish line and completed the marathon.

Congratulations again to Gage on this impressive achievement. Your determination and willingness to push through challenges is something we here at Alarm Grid are proud to celebrate!

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

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

Removed the Enter Requirement for PIN Codes

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

Sensor Chime Voice Annunciation

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

30-Minute Sounder Disable for Testing

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

OTA Firmware Update Requests from the Panel

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

Screen Saver and Photo Slideshow

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

Repeater Supervision Support

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

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

Alarm Grid is thrilled to inform you that the new 2GIG 345S encryption-capable sensor lineup is now available. This collection covers all the bases, with sensors for security, life safety, and environmental monitoring. The 345s sensors allow you to select encrypted or non-encrypted operation.

If you're building out a new 2GIG system or expanding an existing one, you are going to want to take a close look at what this family of products has to offer.

All of the 345S sensors communicate on the standard 345 MHz wireless frequency. That means they play nice with a wide range of 2GIG panels, including the 2GIG GC Touch (AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE versions), 2GIG GC2e, 2GIG GC3e, and Edge (AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE versions available). They will also work right alongside any existing 2GIG or Honeywell 5800 Series sensors you already have enrolled.

And here is a nice bonus: the sensors in this lineup come with an onboard encryption switch, so you can enable encrypted communication if your panel supports it. They come from the factory with encryption disabled, but enabling it is super easy.

With that said, let's check out the new 345S sensors!

2GIG DW100-345

345S Wireless Door/Window Contact Sensor

The 2GIG DW100-345 is a surface-mounted door and window contact that should be one of the first sensors on your shopping list. It mounts right onto the surface of a door or window frame and communicates wirelessly with your panel whenever the magnet separates from the sensor, letting the system know something has been opened.

One thing we really like about this one is the thoughtful design. It has a rounded outer shell with a square interior, which makes it easy for installers to line up correctly during mounting. It also ships with a spacer that lets it fit flush on a wider variety of door and window profiles. You get support for an external Normally Open or Normally Closed wired input as well, which gives you some extra flexibility. Battery life comes in at up to 8 years, and encryption is switchable on or off right on the board.

Key Features:

• Surface-mounted design with included spacer for versatile installation
• Up to 8-year battery life
• Supports external NO or NC wired input
• On/Off switchable encryption via onboard switch

2GIG DWR100-345

345S Recessed Door/Window Contact Sensor

If you want your security sensors to be completely out of sight, the 2GIG DWR100-345 is the way to go. This is a recessed contact, which means the sensor and its magnet get installed inside holes drilled into the door or window and its frame. Once everything is in place, the only way you would ever notice the sensor is by looking at the edge of the frame with the door or window already open.

This is a fantastic option for anyone who cares about keeping their home looking clean and uncluttered. It communicates on the 345 MHz frequency and will report to the panel whenever the door or window is opened. Battery life is rated at up to 5 years, and encryption can be toggled on or off using a switch right on the sensor.

Key Features:

• Completely hidden recessed design for a clean look
• Up to 5-year battery life
• On/Off switchable encryption via onboard switch

2GIG PIR100-345

345S Passive Infrared Motion Detector

The 2GIG PIR100-345 is a wall-mounted motion detector that uses passive infrared technology to pick up on changes in heat energy caused by movement. When set to its default High Sensitivity Mode, it covers an impressive area of 30 feet deep by 50 feet wide. That is more than enough for a typical living room, hallway, or open floor plan.

Pet owners will appreciate the built-in pet immunity feature. When enabled, the sensor will ignore the movement of animals weighing up to 85 pounds, which goes a long way toward cutting down on false alarms. The sensitivity setting is installer-adjustable, so you can dial it in for your specific environment. Battery life is rated at up to 7 years, and like most sensors in the 345S lineup, encryption can be toggled on via an onboard switch.

Key Features:

• 30 ft x 50 ft coverage area on high sensitivity
• Pet immunity for animals up to 85 lbs (installer-adjustable)
• Up to 7-year battery life
• Ships non-encrypted; encryption activated via onboard switch

2GIG GB100-345

345S Wireless Glass Break Detector

The 2GIG GB100-345 is a wireless glass break detector that can be mounted on either a ceiling or a wall. It uses a dual-stage detection method to tell the difference between actual breaking glass and other loud noises. First, it listens for the low-frequency "thud" of something striking the glass. Then it listens for the high-frequency "crash" of the glass actually shattering. Both sounds have to occur together for the sensor to trip, which does a great job of preventing false alarms.

It handles plate, tempered, laminated, and coated glass, and it covers a 15-foot radius from where it is mounted. There are user-adjustable sensitivity settings as well, which is helpful if the sensor is going in a noisier area. Battery life is up to 5 years, and encryption is switchable on the board.

Key Features:

• Dual-stage thud and crash detection to minimize false alarms
• Detects plate, tempered, laminated, and coated glass
• 15-foot detection radius
• User-adjustable sensitivity settings
• Up to 5-year battery life
• On/Off switchable encryption

2GIG SMKT100-345

345S Smoke, Heat, Freeze Detector

The 2GIG SMKT100-345 is a multi-purpose life safety sensor that handles smoke, heat, and freeze detection all in one device. It uses a photo-electric optical smoke detection chamber paired with advanced detection algorithms, and it meets the newer UL217 8th edition and UL268 7th edition standards. That means it is better at recognizing smoke from synthetic materials, which is important since so much of what is in our homes today is made from plastics and other synthetics.

Beyond smoke, the sensor also monitors for dangerous temperature conditions. It sends a Rate of Rise alert when the room temperature hits 104 degrees Fahrenheit and climbs 15 or more degrees within a single minute. It will also alert you to extreme high and low temperatures, making it useful as a freeze sensor for vacation homes or unoccupied spaces. The projected battery life is 10 years, and encryption is enabled by default on this one, though it can be switched off if needed.

Key Features:

• Meets UL217 8th edition and UL268 7th edition standards
• Photo-electric optical smoke detection chamber
• Rate of Rise heat alert (104°F + 15° rise in one minute)
• Extreme high and low temperature freeze alerts
• Projected 10-year battery life
• Default encrypted; can be switched to unencrypted mode

2GIG CO100-345

345S Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide is one of those dangers you absolutely cannot detect on your own, which is why the 2GIG CO100-345 is such an important addition to any system. This wireless CO detector uses an electrochemical sensor to monitor for carbon monoxide and communicates alarm, tamper, and battery condition messages back to your panel.

What really stands out here is the longevity. You get a 10-year sensor life and a 10-year battery life, so once this thing is installed, you can largely set it and forget it. It also has a built-in 85 decibel sounder to wake you up if CO is detected, even before the panel sounds its own alarm. The case is tamper protected and the sensor includes an end-of-life indicator so you know when it is time for a replacement. It is ETL listed for added peace of mind.

Key Features:

• 10-year sensor life and 10-year battery life
• Built-in 85 dB sounder for immediate local alerts
• Tamper protected case with end-of-life indicator
• Full monitoring of alarm, low battery, and tamper conditions
• ETL listed

2GIG FF100-345

345S Firefighter Smoke and CO Detector Listener

The 2GIG FF100-345 is a clever solution for a common problem. If you already have UL listed smoke or CO detectors in your home, you probably do not want to rip them out just to add monitoring to your security system. The FireFighter solves this by listening for the specific alarm cadence of your existing detectors and then relaying that signal wirelessly to your 2GIG panel.

The best part is that adding a FireFighter does not impact the UL listing or Fire Marshall approval of your existing detectors. It simply sits nearby and listens. It runs on a single CR123A long life lithium battery and is FCC, IC, and ETL listed for use in both the US and Canada. Encryption can be enabled via an onboard switch.

Key Features:

• Monitors existing UL listed smoke, CO, or combo detectors
• Does not affect UL or Fire Marshall approval of existing detectors
• Runs on one CR123A long life lithium battery
• FCC, IC, and ETL listed (US and Canada, UL985)
• On/Off switchable encryption via onboard switch

2GIG FTD100-345

345S Wireless Dual Flood Water and Temperature Sensor

Water damage is one of the most expensive problems a homeowner can face, and the 2GIG FTD100-345 is designed to catch it early. This dual-purpose sensor monitors for the presence of water and also keeps tabs on the ambient temperature in its location. Place it near a water heater, under a sink, in a basement, or anywhere else where a leak or a burst pipe could cause serious damage.

It is part of the 2GIG Notification Sensors line, which adds smart home awareness features to your security system beyond just intrusion detection. The sensor runs on a single CR 2.3V lithium battery with a five-year battery life. Encryption can be enabled via the onboard switch.

Key Features:

• Dual flood and temperature monitoring in one device
• Runs on one CR 2.3V lithium battery
• Five-year battery life
• On/Off switchable encryption via onboard switch

2GIG FT100-345

345S Wireless Flood/Temp Sensor

The 2GIG FT100-345 is another option for flood and temperature monitoring. Like the FTD100 above, it can detect the presence of water and monitor for temperature changes that fall outside of defined thresholds. It is fully supervised and tamper protected, so you will know right away if anything goes wrong with the sensor itself.

This is a great sensor to place in utility rooms, crawl spaces, or anywhere you want early warning about water intrusion or freezing temperatures. It runs on a CR123A lithium battery with a five-year lifespan, and encryption can be toggled on or off at the sensor.

Key Features:

• Flood detection and ambient temperature monitoring
• Fully supervised and tamper protected
• Runs on one CR 2.3V lithium battery with 5-year life
• On/Off switchable encryption via onboard switch

2GIG TILT100-345

345S Wireless Tilt Sensor

The 2GIG TILT100-345 is a simple but really useful sensor. It monitors whether something has been tilted past a 45-degree angle, which makes it perfect for keeping track of your garage door status. Mount it on the inside of the garage door panel, and it will report to the system whenever the door goes up or comes back down. It sends a restore signal once the door returns to its closed position.

Beyond garage doors, you can also use it to monitor mailboxes, pet doors, storm cellar doors, or anything else that tilts when opened. It includes a tamper switch and low battery reporting. Installation is easy with the included double-sided tape and mounting screws. Battery life is rated at up to 10 years, and encryption is switchable on the board.

Key Features:

• Triggers at 45-degree tilt, restores when returned to upright position
• Perfect for garage doors, mailboxes, pet doors, and more
• Up to 10-year battery life
• Includes double-sided tape and mounting screws
• Tamper switch and low battery supervision
• On/Off switchable encryption

2GIG KEY100-345

345S 4-Button Security Panel Key Ring Remote

The 2GIG KEY100-345 is a wireless key fob that gives you a quick and convenient way to control your system without having to walk over to the panel. It has four buttons that let you arm, disarm, and trigger a panic right from your keychain, pocket, or purse. It supports encryption, which is highly recommended for a key fob.

If there is an emergency, you can hit the panic button to activate the siren and automatically signal the central monitoring station, if enabled. The key fob can also be programmed to operate the programmable output on the alarm panel, which is handy if you have a connected device like a garage door or gate relay. It is small, lightweight, and easy to keep on you at all times.

Key Features:

• 4-button control: Arm Away, Arm Stay, Disarm, and programmable output
• Emergency panic button activates siren and signals monitoring station
• Compact design fits on a key chain, in a pocket, or purse
• Programmable output control for connected relay devices

2GIG PANIC100-345

345S Wireless Panic Button Pendant Remote

The 2GIG PANIC100-345 is a dedicated panic button designed for one thing: getting you help fast. Press the button and it immediately sends an emergency signal to the control panel, regardless of whether the system is armed or disarmed. It has a wireless range of 500 feet in open air, so it works from just about anywhere on your property.

What makes this device especially useful is how many ways you can carry or mount it. It comes with options for a lanyard, wristband, belt clip, and car visor clip. The button is water-resistant, which means it can get wet, but should not be submerged. That means it holds up well even in damp environments like bathrooms or near pools. A five-second lockout after each press prevents accidental reactivations, which is a nice safety touch.

Key Features:

• 500 ft wireless range in open air
• Water-resistant design
• Wearable via lanyard, wristband, belt clip, or car visor clip
• Five-second lockout prevents accidental activations
• Over 1 million unique ID code combinations
• FCC/IC and ETL certified

2GIG TAKE100-345

345S Wireless Hardwire Takeover Module

Upgrading to a 2GIG wireless system but your home is already wired up with hardwired sensors? The 2GIG TAKE100-345 is exactly what you need. This takeover module lets you convert up to 8 existing hardwired zones into wireless zones that communicate with your 2GIG panel. If you have more than 8 zones, you can add additional modules.

It supports up to 500 mA for powering wired motion sensors and glass break sensors, and it can even be powered by the backup battery of your old alarm panel. It includes a charging circuit with LED status lighting for the backup battery. Just keep in mind that it is intended for indoor use only and cannot be used for Carbon Monoxide or Fire detection zones. Encryption is supported via an onboard switch, and the module is ETL listed.

Key Features:

• Converts up to 8 hardwired zones per module into wireless zones
• Supports up to 500 mA for wired motions and glass breaks
• Can run on existing alarm panel backup battery with charging circuit
• LED status lighting for battery condition
• ETL listed
• Supports encryption via onboard switch

2GIG RPTR100-345

345S Wireless Repeater

If you have a larger home or a tricky layout with lots of walls and obstacles, the 2GIG RPTR100-345 Wireless Repeater can be a lifesaver. It extends the wireless range of your 2GIG system by receiving signals from your sensors and repeating them to the panel. It handles both 2GIG and Honeywell 5800 Series signals, and it works with encrypted and non-encrypted sensors right out of the box.

Setup could not be easier. It is a plug-and-play device that starts repeating signals the moment you power it on. It also includes a 24-hour rechargeable backup battery, so it keeps working even during a power outage. A built-in repeat indicator in the signal prevents the "repeated signal storm" issue that some older repeaters can cause. You can optionally program it as a zone to supervise Tamper, AC Loss, and Low Battery conditions for the repeater.

Key Features:

• Repeats both 2GIG and Honeywell 5800 345 MHz signals
• Works with encrypted and non-encrypted sensors out of the box
• Plug-and-play with immediate signal repetition
• 24-hour rechargeable backup battery
• Built-in repeat indicator eliminates repeated signal storm
• On/Off switchable supervisory encryption

Questions? We Are Here to Help!

If you have questions about any of these 2GIG 345S Sensors or 2GIG panels, or if you just want to learn more about our monitoring service, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. If you want to speak by phone, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm Eastern Time. Visit our website to chat with a live agent between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM Eastern.

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

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

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

You can view the recommended alternative panels here:

• Resideo VISTAH3
• Honeywell VISTA-21IPLTE

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

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

Shop LTE communicators here:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As winter weather continues to move across the region, the Alarm Grid team wants to keep customers informed about how upcoming conditions may impact our operations. Forecasts indicate that the Louisville area may be affected by snow, sleet, freezing rain, or a combination of all three. These conditions can make travel hazardous, and the safety of our team is always a top priority.

For this reason, while Alarm Grid will remain open and operational, our Louisville office employees will be working remotely during this weather event. This allows our team to continue supporting customers while avoiding unsafe road conditions.

That said, severe winter weather can sometimes lead to power outages or intermittent internet disruptions. If this occurs, customers may experience slight delays when reaching our support team. We kindly ask for your patience as we work through any temporary challenges caused by the weather.

It is important to note that Alarm Grid’s professional monitoring services will not be affected. Our monitoring partners, CMS for customers within the United States and Rapid Response for customers in Canada, operate 24/7/365. They maintain multiple facilities in geographically diverse locations, ensuring that a single weather event does not impact their ability to monitor Alarm Grid customers.

If you're an Alarm Grid monitored customer, and you need to place your system on test mode or cancel an alarm, please contact your monitoring station directly. For CMS, call (888) 818-7728 and select Option 9. For Rapid Response, call (800) 932-3822 and follow the prompts. When calling, be prepared to provide your name, address, and false alarm password. Providing an incorrect password or a duress password will result in authorities being dispatched.

For routine support issues, the monitoring station will not be able to help. Items such as individual panel support or adding or removing zones from your system must be handled by the Alarm Grid support team. You can reach us by calling (888) 818-7728 and selecting Option 2. For non-emergency issues, email us at support@alarmgrid.com, and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate this winter weather event together!

Happy New Year 2026 From Alarm Grid!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monitoring Station Contact Information

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

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

US Customers with Full Monitoring Plans:

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

Canadian Customers with Full Monitoring Plans:

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

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

If You Need Technical Support, Email Us!

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

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

New Year's Eve Safety Reminder

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

The Upside Down is not real, but burglars are.

Happy New Year!

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

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

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

Monitoring Station Contact Information

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

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

US Customers:

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

Canadian Customers:

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday Travel Reminder

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

Happy Holidays!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monitoring Station Contact Information

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

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

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

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

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

For Technical Support - Email Us Instead

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

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

Thanksgiving Safety Tips

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

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

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

Important: Carbon Monoxide Alarms

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!

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