Product Announcements Posts

What 2GIG brought to the table at ISC West this year is a lineup of new sensors for the Edge panel. These sensors use the 900 MHz frequency band for extended wireless range. They also offer encryption for secure transmission. 2GIG boasts they will have a 2km or 1.2 mile transmitting range!

The new 2GIG E+ extended range sensors are not yet available, and we don't have an ETA yet on when they will be released. In addition, 2GIG Edge panels require a firmware update to version 1.3 (3.1.3.xxx) in order to support the new lineup. When the firmware is released, we'll update our 2GIG Edge Firmware Update Page with the new information. Hopefully, the firmware will be available just before, or simultaneously with the sensors.

We don't have all the details on this new sensor lineup, but what we do know we'll share with you here:

2GIG DW10E-900 Door Window Sensor:

With a two-way transmitting range comparable to that of the DSC PowerG sensors, these E+ extended range transmitters are sure to be a hit. The DW10E-900 is the redesigned door/window sensor in the lineup. The exterior lines are rounded while the interior lines, where the magnet and sensor come together are squared. With a built-in spacer, the DW10E-900 is meant to fit in more diverse locations. Dimensions: 2.42" x 1.07" x 0.58" (6.14cm x 2.71cm x 1.47cm). Expected battery life: eight (8) years. Data Sheet.

2GIG PIR1E-900 Motion Sensor:

The 2GIG PIR1E-900 has a coverage area of 30' x 50' (9.14m x 15.24m). It has an attractive and low profile appearance and is pet-friendly for pets up to 85 lbs (38.55kg). The PIR1E-900 boasts a quad sensing element and has a 100° maximum horizontal sensing angle. Dimensions: 3.53″ x 2.35″ x 1.63″ (8.96cm x 5.96cm x 4.14cm). Expected battery life: three (3) years. Data Sheet.

2GIG GB1E-900 Glass Break Detector:

The 2GIG GB1E-900 glass break detector can pick up the sound of breaking glass within a 15' (4.57m) diameter. It offers intelligent detection of different glass types, including plate, tempered, laminated or coated. Like some other glass break sensors, it requires both the low frequency sound of someone striking glass, followed by the high frequency sound of glass shattering in order to activate, reducing false alarms. Dimensions: 4.57" x 1.57" (11.60cm x 3.98cm). Expected battery life: five (5) years. Data Sheet.

2GIG DW30E-900 Outdoor Door/Window Sensor:

The 2GIG DW30E-900 is an outdoor rated door/window transmitter. It would also make an excellent gate sensor. And with its extended range, it can protect openings that may have once been considered too far away for protection by the alarm system. It can handle extreme temperatures of -40°F - +140°F (-40°C - +60°C) and is IP56 rated, meaning it is protected against dust accumulation that would interfere with its operation, and powerful water jets. It supports an external Normally Open or Normally Closed contact and is made to easily mount to gates, garages, or poles. Dimensions: 4.6" x 2.1" x 1.5" (11.68cm x 5.33cm x 3.81cm). Expected battery life: five (5) years. Data Sheet.

2GIG SMKT-900 Smoke/Heat/Freeze Detector:

the 2GIG SMKT900 is a triple threat. It offers detection for smoke, both high heat and rate-of-rise protection, and as an added bonus, it can also be programmed to monitor for low temperature conditions. The fixed heat temperature threshold is 134°F +/-4°F (56°C +/-2.22°C). The rate-of-rise detector activates if the temperature is 104°F (40°C) and increases by 15° in one (1) minute. The low temperature threshold is 40°F (4.44°C) for a minute or more. It restores when the temperature is 45°F (7.22°C) for a minute or more. Dimensions: 4.7" x 2.3" (11.93cm x 5.84cm). Expected battery life: three (3) years. Data Sheet.

All of these new sensors work with the 2GIG Edge. 2GIG has admittedly had some issues with firmware and compatibility, but one thing I can say about the Edge is that it is rock solid from a hardware perspective. It is very solid and feels substantial in a way that some of the other all-in-one panels do not. We're excited to see how this sensor lineup affects folks choosing the 2GIG Edge. You can see a feature comparison between the 2GIG Edge and the Resideo PROA7PLUS here.

ISC West is the premiere trade show in our industry. It happens in Las Vegas each spring and all the manufacturers of security products show up. Of course, we're interested in Qolsys, Alarm.com, Resideo, AlarmNet, and 2GIG, but there are many more! They'll display all their best new gadgets.

This year Alarm.com showed up to ISC West loaded for bear! They rolled out several new offerings in the form of both products and services. Many, but not all of these devices were targeting commercial applications. We'll list the big new items below:

Alarm.com

Outdoor Floodlight Camera and VizBlinder:

The Outdoor Floodlight Camera is a new product. As the name implies, it mounts outside in darker areas where an intruder may attempt to enter or gain entry to an area where they shouldn't be.

The new Outdoor Floodlight Camera features 4MP video and Two-Way voice options. It has 3,000 Lumen floodlights, allowing you to customize your lighting options. It's suitable for homes and small- to medium-sized businesses. Additionally, because it uses video analytics, the floodlight can automatically respond to threats when unwanted visitors or vehicles are detected. It can activate red and blue warning lights and also play warning sounds from a powerful siren.

VizBlinder will incorporate new hardware as part of the new feature. It allows the central station operator to fill a room with a vision obscuring white haze. This is done after the operator has accessed the available Alarm.com cameras and determined that an intruder is present. If cameras that support Two-Way audio are in use the operator will be able to engage with the intruder prior to activating VizBlinder. If I were an intruder, and the room suddenly began filling with an unknown white fog, I would skedaddle!

Remote Video Monitoring Console:

The Remote Video Monitoring Console (RVM) is a system that allows central station operators to offer "round-the-clock concierge video monitoring and proactive defense services to customers with Alarm.com Video Analytics cameras." Operators will receive immediate alerts when a vehicle or person enters an area that is restricted. Through the RVM, the operator can review the situation and, if necessary, intervene through the RVM using hardware located on the protected site. This includes using the two-way voice feature of some cameras to talk to the unexpected visitor.

Because both the cameras and the RVM Console are provided by Alarm.com, this is truly a seamless end-to-end integration. The fact that Alarm.com makes the cameras, video analytics, and the central station hardware, there is no special interface equipment required. The Remote Video Monitoring Console is what allows the central station operator to deploy VizBlinder, which we outlined in the previous section.

Sunflower Labs Autonomous Security Drone:

Alarm.com has partnered with Sunflower Labs to offer an autonomous outdoor security drone. Sensor activity on the alarm system and Video Analytics trigger the drone to deploy and investigate suspicious events. It can cover 10 acres in 90 seconds, making it perfect for larger commercial and residential properties. The drone provides "eyes in the sky" for property owners and central station operators alike, and puts intruders on notice that they're being watched. Presumably, central station operators can also deploy the drone based on information they glean through the RVM Console.

Shooter Detection Systems

Adding to their commercial offerings, Alarm.com introduces the Shooter Detection Systems (SDS) Indoor Gunshot Sensor. In the event of an active shooter situation, this system allows for a faster and more accurate response while also providing valuable information to both police and medical first responders.

The SDS sensor uses dual-authentication technology identifying both the acoustic and the infrared signature of a gunshot. It has an accuracy rating of less than 1 false alert per 5 million hours of use. Gunshot detection signals are automatically forwarded to Alarm.com and the appropriate central station is alerted within seconds. With the information provided by the system, the operator can inform the authorities exactly where the incident was reported.

Resideo

First Alert® VX5 Indoor Camera

Adding to their recently released First Alert® VX1 video doorbell and First Alert® VX3 outdoor camera Resideo introduces the new First Alert® VX5 Indoor Camera at ISC West. Like most of these products, the VX5 is not yet available, so information about it is scarce, but we know it will offer these features:

Advanced Event Detection
• Privacy Mode
• Integration with ProSeries Security Panel
• Compact, Versatile Design
• 2MP resolution and day and night vision with WDR
• Two-way audio
• Easy to Use App – TC 2.0 - for full control of the connected home or office

2GIG

E+ Extended Range Sensors

2GIG brings their new E+ Extended Range 900 MHz sensors to ISC West. This is an exciting addition to their portfolio. This product line will capitalize on the extended range capabilities of the 900 MHz wireless frequency. The E+ lineup will offer up to 1.2 Mile (2km) transmitting range. These sensors are bi-directional and fully encrypted with extended battery life as compared to regular 2GIG 345 MHz sensors. As with most products rolled out at ISC West, these are not yet available, but a data sheet for each is linked below. We will link to the products once they become available for sale.

Available sensors, so far:

• 2GIG GB1E-900 - Glassbreak Detector
• 2GIG DW10E-900 - Door/Window Sensor
• 2GIG PIR1E-900 - PIR Motion Detector
• 2GIG DW30E-900 - Outdoor Door/Window Sensor
• 2GIG SMKT-900 - Smoke Detector

Qolsys

We saved Qolsys for last because they didn't really roll anything out especially for ISC West. Qolsys finished 2023 strong with the release of their PowerG Everywhere 900 MHz automation devices and the Qolsys IQ4 NS no screen security panel.

PowerG Everywhere combines the excellent transmitting range we've come to expect from PowerG with the battery-savings and simplicity of use we get from Z-Wave. The resulting product is a battery sipping tour de force. So far, they offer the following PowerG Automation products which are compatible with the IQ Panel 4, IQ4 Hub, and IQ4 NS running firmware 4.4.0+ and the IQ Pro with firmware 4.3.0n+:

• IQ Lock-PG
• IQ Dimmer-PG
• IQ Switch-PG
• IQ Socket-PG
• IQ Smart Plug-PG
• IQ Outdoor Plug-PG

The IQ4 NS is a budget-friendly panel based on the IQ Panel 4. It's nearly identical to the IQ4 Hub, in fact, with one exception. It does not include a touchscreen interface. Instead, programming is performed using the IQ Installer App, available as a free download from the iOS and Google app stores. You can read all about the IQ4 NS and PowerG Everywhere in our blog posts here and here respectively.

Update 04/08/24 5:08 pm: According to a contact at Resideo, the available stock of IPCAM-WOC2 cameras without this issue is being held back to use as replacements for any affected units that have already been sold. Stock is limited, and once it is depleted, the camera will likely be discontinued permanently.

As an alternative, Resideo recommends the First Alert CAMWE-WO, also known as the VX3 HD Camera. This is an outdoor, 1080p camera with Wide Dynamic Range (WDR). With its intelligent event detection, the CAMWE-WO can distinguish between vehicles, animals, and people.

Original Post: If you have purchased a new Resideo IPCAM-WOC2 recently, but have not yet tried to register it, there is a good chance it will not register. A manufacturing issue has been identified, and a fix is in the works. However, you will need to warranty replace the existing camera if affected

Resideo released this notice today regarding the issue. The notice is a bit confusing. It states that because of this issue they have decided to stop selling the IPCAM-WOC2, but it also states that a resolution has been identified and that new product is available in their warehouse and that affected units can be returned for exchange or refund.

What we know currently:

• Installed, registered, and working units are not affected. There is no reason to believe they will have future issues related to this announcement.
• Units that have been purchased but not registered may have the issue. If you attempt to register an IPCAM-WOC2 and it fails, return it to the vendor you purchased it from for an exchange or refund.
• Currently, you can't purchase a new IPCAM-WOC2. Presumably, current stock of working units is being used for warranty replacement.

We've reached out to Resideo to try and get clarification on a few of our questions. When we hear back, we'll update this blog post. In the meantime, if you have purchased an IPCAM-WOC2 and you haven't tried to register it yet, it is recommended that you do so now. If you encounter an issue, contact the distributor or dealer you purchased the unit from and proceed from there.

If you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer, or you purchased an IPCAM-WOC2 from Alarm Grid recently, you can contact us regarding a warranty replacement. Send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. If the email you use to contact support is different from the email you used when ordering your product, please provide us with the ordering email. That is the easiest way for us to look up and confirm your recent order.

Recently, we told you about T-Mobile customers who, in the past received MMS notifications with video thumbnails, but now receive SMS notifications with a link. Alarm.com will soon unveil a Push Notification Migration Tool to encourage and help users to switch from SMS to push notifications.

You may be asking, what's the difference between SMS, MMS, and push notifications? SMS or Short Message Service is a text message delivered to your phone through your phone carrier. Changes undertaken by the cell phone carrier can affect how and when you receive SMS notifications, or whether you receive them. These changes are outside the control of Alarm.com.

MMS is Multi-Media Service. An MMS message is sent for video notifications when a thumbnail preview is part of the notification setup. Changes to the way T-Mobile, and now Sprint which was acquired by T-Mobile a few years ago, handle MMS delivery caused the recent change in the way video notifications were delivered to those customers. Again, this is something that is outside the control of Alarm.com.

A push notification is generated by an app. The Alarm.com app can generate a push notification for any notification that may be generated through your alarm system that is connected to Alarm.com. Here are a few examples of why Alarm.com believes Push Notifications are superior to SMS or MMS:

Alarm.com will soon unveil a Push Notification Migration Tool to steer customers toward using push notifications. You can check on the status of the tool rollout here. Not everyone will see the migration tool prompt. Being offered the prompt is based on the login used to access the Alarm.com app. At first, only a very specific group of customers will be targeted. That is customers with exactly one (1) SMS contact and one (1) push device on a network known to have had problems with SMS or MMS recently. This includes T-Mobile, Sprint, and Rogers (Canada) customers.

The full requirements are:

• The login must be the primary login.
• The login must not be linked to other systems.
• There must be exactly one enabled SMS/MMS contact address on the account and no other disabled SMS contact addresses.
• At least one enabled notification rule with an SMS recipient.
• There must only be one active push device on the account, and it must be the one the customer is using. Push notification rules need not already exist for that active push device.

When the tool is rolled out, customers who fit the parameters mentioned above will see a message like this:

As you can see, this is strictly a voluntary change. Users have the option to Migrate now, be reminded later, or never have the prompt come up again. If you use the migration tool and switch to push notifications, your SMS/MMS notifications will no longer be active. However, the SMS contact information will be retained in the address book.

At some point, the switch to push notifications may become mandatory, at least for some cellular customers. If it does, it will likely be due to changes undertaken by the cellular carrier that make the delivery of notifications less than optimal. If that occurs, we'll be sure to let you know about it here in our blog.

Intruducing the Qolsys IQ Heat 135 / 200. It offers a selection for the fixed alarm temperature limit of either 135°F or 200°F (57.2°C or 93.3°C). In addition, it has a rate-of-rise feature that activates an alarm if the temperature rises more than 12°F - 15°F (6.7°C - 8.3°C) per minute.

Qolsys is streamlining their products by combining the features of the Qolsys IQ Heat 135, and the Qolsys IQ Heat 200 into a single device. Using an internal jumper, the user can choose a fixed temperature alarm threshold of either 135°F (57.2°C) or 200°F (93.3°C). Based on this jumper setting, a temperature above the selected threshold will cause an alarm.

In addition to the fixed-temperature alarm threshold, the IQ Heat 135 / 200 also has a built-in rate-of-rise detector. If the ambient temperature rises from between 12°F - 15°F (6.7°C - 8.3°C) per minute, an alarm will occur.

Once either alarm threshold has been met, the IQ Heat 135 / 200 will use its transmitter to send an alarm signal to a compatible system. This includes any of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, IQ Panel 2 Plus, IQ Panel 4, IQ4 Hub, IQ Hub, and IQ4 NS panels with a 319.5 MHz receiver built in. It can likely also be used with Interlogix/GE panels that support this frequency, such as the Simon panels, though we have not tested to confirm this.

The jumper used to set the fixed-temperature threshold has three (3) pins. If the jumper is across the LOW and center pin, the detector is set for 135°F (57.2°C) if the jumper is across the center and HI pin the detector is set for 200°F (93.3°C). If the jumper is removed completely, or lost, then the detector defaults to the high, or 200°F (93.3°C) setting.

The Qolsys IQ Heat 135 / 200 uses a single Panasonic CR123A 3V battery, and the expected battery life is about ten (10) years. Besides how often the detector transmits a signal, the biggest factor in battery life is ambient temperature. When the detector is mounted to the ceiling, the ceiling temperature should never exceed 100°F (37.8°C) under normal conditions. Just know that extreme temperatures, high or low, will likely affect the life expectancy of the battery.

The detector is fully supervised for RF check-in and transmits a signal to the system every 62 - 68 minutes. If the alarm panel doesn't hear from the sensor for a specified period, it will indicate a trouble condition on the zone associated with the IQ Heat. In addition to RF supervision, the detector is also supervised for tamper. If the heat detector is pulled away from the wall or ceiling, it will generate a tamper transmission to the alarm panel.

Specifications

• Device Type: Wireless Heat Detector
• Operating Frequency: 319.5MHz (crystal-controlled)
• Supervision Interval: 62 - 68 minutes
• Fixed Temperature Detection: Selectable 135°F (57°C) or 200°F (93°C)
• Rate of Rise Rating: 12° to 15°F (6.7° to 8.3°C) per minute
• Mounting Location: Ceiling or Wall
• Ceiling Mounting Specification: At least 4 in. (10cm) away from any walls
• Wall Mounting Height: Top of detector within 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) of the ceiling
• Standby Current: Less than 0.9μA
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 150°F (0 to 65.6°C)
• Operating Relative Humidity: 0 to 95% noncondensing
• Batteries: One (1) Panasonic CR123A 3V (included)
• Expected Battery Life: 10 years (depends on how often the detector transmits signals, but is more dependent on the temperature of the installation environment. Warmer temps (within range) = longer life)
• Dimensions: 2.29" Diameter x 1.28" High (58.25mm Diameter x 32.4m High
• UL Max Ambient Ceiling Temp: 100°F/150°F (37.8°C/65.6°C)
• Maximum UL Spacing: 50ft (15.2M) x 50ft (15.2M)
• Agency Listings: UL 521 Heat Detectors for Fire Protective Signaling Systems, UL985 Household Fire Warning System Units, CAN/ULC-S530 Heat Actuated Fire Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems, CSFM Category 7270 - FCC: 15.109 Class B, 15.231, Industry Canada: ICES-003, RSS-210

FortrezZ is discontinuing another of its Z-Wave products due to its inability to source some required components. For this reason, Alarm.com no longer recommends its installation. Installed units will continue to work, and Alarm.com will continue to offer troubleshooting support for them.

This may be the result of the supply chain issues experienced a few years ago. FortrezZ was forced to discontinue the MIMOlite some time ago, and now we're seeing the discontinuation of their Water Valve. Products already purchased and/or installed are not affected by this news.

If you already have a FortrezZ Water Valve (WV-01) but haven't installed it yet, no worries. It should still install and operate as expected. If you have any problems related to integrating the water valve with Alarm.com, you can still get assistance from tech support. If you are an Alarm Grid monitoring customer, we offer free technical support as well.

If you were thinking of purchasing a FortrezZ Water Valve, but missed the opportunity, you have other options available. We offer the Alarm.com Z-Wave Plus Smart Water Valve and Meter, and the Alarm.com Z-Wave Plus Smart Water Valve. The Alarm.com smart water valves use Z-Wave Plus and can be used with any Alarm.com compatible panel that supports Z-Wave or Z-Wave Plus.

Left, Alarm.com Z-Wave Plus Smart Water Valve with Meter. Right, Alarm.com Z-Wave Plus Smart Water Valve:

In addition to the Alarm.com options, we also offer the Qolsys IQ Water Valve. It's available in two (2) separate kits. The PowerG Kit offers the IQ Water Valve with two (2) DSC PG9985 Flood Sensors. The S-Line Kit offers the water valve with three (3) Qolsys IQ Flood-S 319.5 MHz S-Line Flood Sensors. If purchasing one of these kits, be sure to take into account what panel the kit is meant to work with. All Qolsys IQ Panel 4 versions can support PowerG while only some can support 319.5 MHz S-Line sensors.

Below left, IQ Water Valve w/ Qolsys S-Line Flood Sensors. Right, IQ Water Valve w/ PowerG Flood Sensors:

A smart water valve is most advantageous when used in conjunction with flood sensors. If a water leak is detected by a sensor, it can alert the alarm system. Then, the system can use that information to run a rule or scene to automatically shut off the water main to the home or business. Having this type of protection can save on homeowner's insurance premiums, and can prevent widespread damage and loss to your home or business.

Specifications for Alarm.com ADC-SWM150:

• Device Type: Z-Wave Plus Smart Water Valve and Meter
• Power: 100-240VAC
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 185°F
• Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor Use Only
• Valve Size: 1"
• Valve Threads: Male NPT
• Valve Portability: NSF/ANSI 61 and 372 Standards
• Control Unit Dimensions: 2.75"L x 4.0"W x 1.25"D
• Meter and Valve Dimensions: 11"L x 5.75"W x 3.75"D
• Actuator and Valve Dimensions: 2.0"L x 4.5"W x 3.75"D
• Maximum Compatible Pipe Size: 1.25"
• Power Supply Cable Length: 19.7 Feet
• Package Contents: Control Unit, Valve & Meter, Enclosure, Power Adapter, Manual Shut-Off Handle, Cable Ties (x5), Wall Bracket, Wall Anchors (x2), Screws (x2)

Specifications for Alarm.com ADC-SWV100:

• Power: 100 - 240 VAC (50/60 Hz)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 185°F (-10°C to 85°C)
• Communication: Z-Wave Plus
• Indoor/Outdoor: For indoor use only
• Valve Specifications:
  • Size: 1"
  • Threads: Female NPT
  • Potability: Conforms to NSF/ANSI 61 and 372 standards for potability
• Control Unit Dimensions: 2.75 x 4.0 x 1.25” (6.99 x 10.2 x 3.18 cm)
• Actuator and Valve Dimensions: 2.0 x 4.5 x 3.75” (5.08 x 11.43 x 9.53 cm)
• Maximum Compatible Pipe Size: 1.25" (3.175 cm)
• Power Supply Cable Length: 19.7’ (6 m)
• Plumbing Certifications:
  • ICC-ES-PMG (compliance with NSF 61 and NSF 372)
  • Massachusetts Accepted Plumbing Products Registry

Specifications for Qolsys IQ Water Valve:

• Product Type: Smart Water Valve
• Kit Contents: Qolsys IQ Smart Water Valve, Qolsys IQ Flood-S Sensor
• Communication: Z-Wave Plus V2 700-Series
• Range: Approx. 130 Feet Indoors or 450 Feet Outdoors
• Application: Quarter-Turn Ball Valve Pipes from 1/2" to 1-1/4"
• Maximum Force: 8 N.m
• Ingress Protection: IP66 (Waterproof & Dustproof)
• Power Supply: Plug-in Transformer - AC (110V 60Hz / 220V 50Hz), DC (12V/1A) - Barrel jack
• Weight: 603g (21.2 oz)
• Size: 5.83" x 3.78" x 5.24" (148mm x 96mm x 133mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 121°F (-10℃ to 49.4℃)

Specifications for DSC PG9985 Flood Sensor:

• Device Type: Wireless Flood Sensor
• Operating Frequency: PowerG 915 MHz
• Wireless Range: ~2,000 Feet Open Air
• Water Detection Probe: Attached w/ 6-Foot Cord
• Batteries: Single CR123A (~8 Year Life)
• Mounting Hardware: Double-Sided Foam Tape (Included)
• Dimensions: 3.1875" x 1.25" x 1.0" (81mm x 34mm x 25mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 122°F (-10℃ to 50℃)
• Weight: 53g (1.9oz)

Specifications for Qolsys IQ Flood-S Flood Sensor:

• Device Type: Wireless Flood Sensor
• Operating Frequency: 319.5 MHz
• Wireless Range: ~600 Nominal Feet
• Water Detection Probe: Attached w/ 6-Foot Cord
• Signal Outputs: Tamper & Tamper Restore, Alarm & Alarm Restore, Low-Battery
• Supervisory Interval: 70 Minutes
• Batteries: Two (2) Lithium CR2032 Coin Batteries
• Mounting Hardware: Double-Sided Foam Tape (Included)
• Dimensions: 2.5"L x 1"W x 0.5"D (64mm x 25mm x 13mm)
• Operating Temperature: 14°F to 122°F (-10℃ to 50℃)

In addition to the options listed above, there is also the Honeywell/Resideo 5821 that can be used in conjunction with the FP280 flood probe. This sensor will work with any of the Qolsys IQ4 panels that support 345 MHz RF devices. A panel with one or more of these sensors can be used to automate any of the water valves listed in this post.

What are your thoughts on the discontinuation of another FortrezZ Z-Wave device? Have you encountered similar issues with other products? Drop us a comment and let us hear from you. If you have a specific support question, you can send us an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We're here providing support Monday - Friday from 9:00 am until at least 6:00 pm Eastern Time each day. We list holiday hours and closings in our blog.

If you're shopping for electronic security, Z-Wave, or other low-voltage equipment, and you find a product that you love, that Alarm Grid doesn't currently offer, submit this form so we can list it. Send us an email to support@alarmgrid.com to let us know, and we'll expedite the listing.

We may not be able to source every product you run across, but if we can, we'll gladly list lifestyle and security-related products on our site. If you're designing a system and you need the product within a specific time frame, send us an email to let us know and we'll get the item listed as quickly as possible.

On our New Product Form, we ask for certain information. Below, we'll list each piece of information and a brief explanation of what we're looking for in each:

Product Title (Required):

This is like a Make and Model, or Manufacturer and Model Number. Provide as much identifying information as you can, particularly if different models are very similar and you require a specific one. We may add more than one model, but we want to add the one you're looking for first.

Product SKU (Required):

An SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit. It helps both manufacturers and retailers keep track of product stock and also helps to make sure that when you inquire about apples, we don't give you oranges instead. For us, it is very important, but may not always be apparent when you're shopping for a product.

Below is an image taken from the Alarm Grid storefront on Amazon.com. As you can see from the listing, there is no SKU specifically called out. But, we happen to know that the SKU for this product is PROLTE-A. So, if you're attempting to provide us with information on a product, and you can't find an SKU, list the model number again (as the SKU is required on the form). We'll do our best to find the correct product with the information provided and may reach out via email to make sure we have the correct item.

Help Us Source It (Optional):

Where were you shopping when you saw this item? Was there a particular website? Provide as much information as you can on where this product can be found.

Approximate Sales Price (Optional):

What is the price you've seen for this product elsewhere? You may think we only ask this so we can charge as much as possible for the product, but that's not the case. Alarm Grid is not a wholesale distributor, and as such, other wholesalers and dealers may have a price for an item that we can't match (and we don't price match).

If we find that's the case, we'll be honest with you about it. We may still list the product on our site, but we won't hold you up if you're waiting for us to list it, only to find that our price is higher than you expect.

Please Describe the Item's Function In a Paragraph (Optional):

Yes, there's homework, though we're not asking for a full book report. Just give us a brief description of what this item is used for. You can even tell us what you want to use it for. This helps us in a couple of ways. It gives us a good understanding of why the product is useful, and it also allows us to be sure that the item will do what you want it to do. If not, we may be able to recommend a different item that will work better.

Please Describe Why You Believe Alarm Grid Should Sell This Product (Optional):

This can be as simple as "Because it's new and you don't offer it yet." Just give your thoughts about the product.

What Is Your Name? (Optional):

This is not a required field, but if you do send us an email to expedite the addition of the recommended product to our site, it will help us tie that email to this request.

Email (Optional):

Once again, this is not required but will help us if we have questions about the product. Particularly, if you're not able to provide an accurate SKU. If we can't properly source the product, and we don't have an email to contact you, then we may have to abandon the attempt to offer it on our site.

So, that's how you can request that a new product be added to the Alarm Grid website. We can sometimes get a product listed on the same day, depending on what time we receive the request and an email asking us to expedite the listing. Just don't forget to follow up on high-priority requests with an email letting us know you're waiting for the product to be available.

02/14/24 1:09 PM UPDATE: Per Resideo, these two issues are unrelated. However, the second issue, involving AT&T communicators appears to have been resolved.

02/13/24 4:15 PM UPDATE: Resideo has an update on the AlarmNet360 site currently:

"A small percentage of ProSeries and LTEMP LTE AT&T communicators may experience signaling issues that could result in a communication failure message being generated to the monitoring Central Station.

This issue is being worked with AT&T for immediate resolution.

We appreciate your patience while we work to quickly resolve this issue."

It is not clear whether this is a separate issue, or is related to the Pro Series issue originally reported in this post. When we get that information, we will either update here or in a new post with details of the new issue. Keep watching this space for updates.

02/13/24 Original Post:

Recently, Resideo identified an issue with select PROA7 and PROA7PLUS panels: screens become dark/unresponsive, losing connection to AlarmNet. A hard reboot is required for a reset. Resideo plans a firmware upgrade to address this, which will be applied automatically to all Pro Series panels.

This alert applies to all Resideo and Honeywell Home Pro Series panels. This includes the PROA7, PROA7C, PROA7PLUS, and PROA7PLUSC. While they say the number of affected panels is very small, we don't yet have an actual number or a date code range to confirm those details.

In response to this issue, Resideo has a firmware update, 03.1872.18.0 which they will begin pushing to all registered Pro Series panels this week. The update will also be available to dealers to push manually beginning on 02/13/24. This is a critical update and will be pushed over WIFI, if available, or Cell if WIFI is unavailable. It is important to note that only registered panels can receive this firmware update. Registered means that there is an account associated with the panel.

An affected panel will be dark, with no status LEDs illuminated. Along with these visible symptoms, the panel will stop communicating with the AlarmNet servers. This will eventually generate a report to the monitoring station of E359, which indicates the panel failed a regularly scheduled check-in.

If you have a Pro Series panel and believe your panel is affected, we recommend you power cycle it as soon as possible. Remove the set screw in the bottom of the panel and pull the front and back of the panel apart. Doing this will automatically remove the primary DC power.

Next, find the panel's battery and unplug it from the main board. Leave it disconnected for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Now carefully put the panel back together. Doing so will reconnect the primary power and the panel should begin to boot up. Replace the set screw, if installed and allow the panel to boot. This should return the panel to normal operation and allow it to receive the firmware update.

Panels that receive the firmware update will reboot as a part of the update process. This will generate a signal to the monitoring station of E-339-Exp. Module Power On / Reset, or possibly E-305-System reset, or possibly both.

If we receive further details on this issue, we'll post them here, so stay tuned. Updates will be posted near the top of this page and will be highlighted with a bold date and wording to indicate new information. We have yet to receive an official MWT Technical Bulletin on this issue, but I believe one is likely coming soon. Hopefully, it will contain the details that are, so far, notably missing.

Shooter Detection Systems and its parent company Alarm.com are currently promoting the #TakeAction initiative to advocate for gun safety. In the United States, people are increasingly afraid to go to work, school, church, and even the grocery store.

Shooter Detection Systems (SDS) sensors offer a combination of acoustic listening with infrared (IR) detection. When a shot is fired within a sensor's detection range, the combination of the sound and the infrared signature caused by the muzzle flash cause a signal to be sent. All processing takes place at the sensor, so you don't have to worry that an SDS sensor is "listening in" on your conversation.

They boast a 99.9% accuracy rating with less than 1 false alert in 5 million hours of use. Shooter Detection Systems holds 9 technology patents (so far). Having a system like this in place means that if Heaven forbid, an active shooter situation unfolds, no humans have to call for help, putting themselves and those around them in further danger.

CES is the Consumer Electronic Showcase. It's a trade show, and when it comes to consumer electronics it's THE trade show. At CES-24, Alarm.com and Shooter Detection Systems unveiled an initiative they call #TakeAction. It is designed to help individuals take control of their personal safety by advocating for the installation of an SDS or similar system.

At this site, Shooter Detection Systems offers letter and email templates that will assist individuals in writing to request proactive gun safety measures. There are templates for students to their school administrators, for parents to their child's school, and for employees to write to their employers.

There are also templates for letters or emails from consumers to local businesses. These businesses may include malls, movie theatres, concert venues, churches, or any other place where crowds may gather.

Finally, there are templates available for individuals to write to their representatives in Congress. This letter or email seeks to make members of Congress aware of the type of protection provided by Shooter Detection Systems, and encourages them to promote public gun safety in any way possible. From Congress, this may take the form of safety and security grant funding.

As mentioned above, Alarm.com is the parent company of Shooter Detection Systems. They acquired SDS in late 2020 and there are plans to offer indoor gunshot detection as part of the Alarm.com for Business platform. We don't yet know what will be required to use this service, but as information becomes available, we'll provide it in future posts. Stay tuned!

Alarm Grid and Alarm.com customers in Ameren, IL can sign up for the Peak Time Savings Program. Once enrolled, you will receive a $50 e-gift card. For each subsequent year you remain enrolled, you will receive a $25 e-gift card. This is another way your smart thermostat can pay for itself.

We've written about the Give Back, Get Back program numerous times in the past. Many different utility companies offer a similar incentive program, and each company has its name for the program. Some offer rebates, others may offer bill credits. The incentive amounts also vary. The information included here is specific to the Ameren, IL program.

To qualify for this incentive, you just need the following:

• Be a residential electric customer in Ameren, IL, with service in your name.
• Use an internet-connected, qualifying smart thermostat.
• Sign up for the program, which allows the Ameren, IL electric company to make small adjustments to your thermostat remotely, during peak usage times.
• You must not already be participating in a demand response program.

The times when your thermostat is likely to be adjusted are during the hottest days of summer when power demands are at their greatest. This can cause strain on the electrical grid. By signing up for the Peak Time Savings Program, you agree that the electric company can make small adjustments of four (4) degrees or less during these times. These adjustments will last for no more than four (4) hours.

The most likely hours during which an adjustment may occur are between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. CT, but adjustments could occur anywhere from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CT. You retain control of your thermostat and can opt out of an adjustment event at any time. In some cases, the thermostat may briefly be adjusted down (cooler) before being adjusted up (conservation) to maintain comfort during the adjustment period.

The thermostats that are compatible through Alarm.com are:

• Trane ComfortLink Control
• RCS Z-Wave Communicating Thermostat
• GoControl Z-wave Thermostat
• Alarm.com Smart Thermostat
• 2GIG Z-Wave Plus™ Battery Powered Thermostat
• Trane Z-Wave Thermostat
• Linear Thermostat
• Smart Thermostat HD (ADC T40K-HD)
• ADC T3000
• ADC T2000

You can sign up for the program by going to this page, and then clicking the link "Enroll Your Smart Thermostat." Once you are accepted, you should receive an email within 60 days of being accepted. The $50 e-gift card will be delivered to your email, so be sure when you sign up, you enter the correct email information.

If you remain enrolled in the program, on the anniversary of your enrollment, you will receive a $25 e-gift card via email for your continued participation. This will occur each subsequent year you remain enrolled. Currently, there is no end date, so this incentive will continue until you are notified otherwise.

It's the middle of winter, but summer will be here before you know it. If you've been on the fence about purchasing a smart thermostat, this may be the perfect time to commit. Signing up for a program like this may seem like a small step, but as they say, the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step and every step brings you closer to your goal. In this case, the goal is energy conservation, and every little step helps.