Resideo Posts

Alarm Grid has been beta testing the upcoming Honeywell ProA7 Panel. This will become the first newly released wireless security system from Resideo after being spun-off by Honeywell. The panel supports some nice new features, and it is expected to be used by DIYers and professionals alike.

The first thing we love about the Honeywell ProA7Plus Security System is how slim and non-obtrusive it is. Honeywell Home has recognized that a security system is no longer something you hide and tuck away. It is a fixture in your home, and it should look nice on a wall or standing on a table. With its tablet-like profile, this panel was specifically built with the modern homeowner or innovative business owner in mind. Once again, Honeywell has proven that home or small business security is a matter you can take into your own hands.

We have also confirmed that the Resideo ProA7 will have a built-in Z-Wave Plus 500-Series Chipset for supporting a variety of smart home automation devices. You can build around the system and add devices like door locks, smart lights, and thermostats for controlling the temperature. Resideo has also stated that the system will support partitioning, which makes it ideal for multi-family homes, rental properties, rooms with important documents, and so much more.

Beyond that, we cannot confirm any other major details. However, we do predict that HomeKit functionality will return for this system. It is also expected that Honeywell will release a new ProSeries Sensor lineup for exclusive use with this system. We can expect the sensors to utilize top-of-the-line wireless encryption and offer a longer communication range than previous Honeywell offerings. We have not received word if the ProA7 will be backwards compatible with Honeywell 5800 Sensors and/or Honeywell SiX Sensors. We also don't have any type of ETA, but we hope it will come fairly soon.

One last consideration for the Resideo ProA7 is that it will likely support IP-only monitoring service. Resideo tends to make cellular communication optional for their systems when it comes to alarm monitoring. The only requirement is that the panel is connected with the AlarmNet360 Servers. This can be through IP and/or cellular service. While cellular connectivity is recommended for superior reliability, many users elect to keep costs as low as possible by going IP only. This will likely make the Resideo ProA7 the top choice for anyone simply wanting basic low-cost monitoring service without cellular backup. We expect Resideo to sell standalone communicators that can be easily added if cellular monitoring is desired.

Alarm Grid will make sure to keep you up to date as we learn more about this exciting new panel. If you are looking for a new panel right away, then you might also consider the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. That is a great system for anyone looking to start new monitoring service. Another panel to look at is Honeywell's current flagship panel, the Honeywell Lyric Controller. The Lyric is ideal for HomeKit compatibility and IP-only monitoring. And if you want more information about these panels or our monitoring services, then the best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One of the best security systems on the market right now is the Honeywell Lyric Controller. While it's clear that Resideo is currently hard at work on their next-gen alarm panel, the Lyric still remains a viable option for many users. Here are five (5) things we love about the Lyric.

1) HomeKit Compatibility

As of March 2020, the Lyric is hands-down the absolute best HomeKit compatible security system on the market. This is great news for iOS users who are looking to control their system remotely using Siri voice commands, as well as users who want to have their HomeKit smart home devices activate automatically with certain system events. For more on getting a Lyric set up with Apple HomeKit, we encourage you to check out this helpful FAQ.

2) IP-Only Monitoring

Don't get us wrong. We always recommend dual-path monitoring with both IP and cellular. But we also understand that some users will want to save money by going IP-only. The Lyric is the newest and most advanced security system that can be set up for alarm monitoring using an IP-only path. This makes it eligible for the less expensive Bronze and Silver Level Monitoring Plans from Alarm Grid (Self or Full). You don't even need to add a communicator, as the system already has a built-in WIFI card. Of course, you can also add a Honeywell LYRICLTE-A (AT&T LTE) or a Honeywell LYRICLTE-V (Verizon LTE) if you want to use the system for cellular or dual-path monitoring. This will require an upgrade to one of the Gold plans.

3) Total Connect 2.0

Total Connect 2.0 represents one of the best features for the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. You can use this robust interactive platform to control your Lyric System from pretty much anywhere using a web browser or a mobile app on your smartphone. By accessing Total Connect 2.0, you can arm and disarm the system, control programmed Z-Wave devices, view the live feed for Total Connect IP Cameras, and so much more. Make sure that the monitoring plan for your Lyric includes access to this great platform.

4) Backwards Compatibility

The Lyric proved that just because you get a new security system doesn't mean you need to throw out your old sensors. All of the uni-directional 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Sensors work with the Lyric, which is important for users upgrading from older Honeywell LYNX Touch Panels. And users with hardwired sensors could easily bring most of them over using a Honeywell 5800C2W Wired to Wireless Converter. Either way, users have a good option to set up the Lyric without having to buy new sensors. And if you do want to buy new sensors, the encrypted Honeywell SiX Sensors are an excellent option.

5) Ease of Use

If you are familiar with other Honeywell Security Systems, then you will have no problem making the jump over to the Lyric. The system features a very similar UI to that of the LYNX Touch Systems, and its programming has been largely retained. While there are some minor updates to freshen things up and to provide a more user friendly experience, the Lyric System is almost identical to its predecessors. Overall, it is very easy for end users to set up, thereby making it the perfect DIY alarm panel.

Get Your Lyric Controller Now!

Our team is happy to help you get started with a brand-new Lyric Controller! If you want to learn more about the Honeywell Lyric System or the monitoring services we provide, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our support team is available from 9am to 8pm ET M-F to help you find the perfect alarm system for your unique needs. We look forward to hearing from you!

At roughly 9:45 PM on Wednesday March 11, 2020, the Resideo AlarmNet360 Servers and the Total Connect 2.0 platform experienced some technical difficulties. Users were unable to control their systems through the Total Connect 2.0 platform. These issues were later restored at roughly 2:25 AM.

We would like to apologize for any issues that this may have caused, and we expect all Total Connect 2.0 services to work as normal. If you are still experiencing issues, we recommend emailing our support team at support@alarmgrid.com immediately. Remember that we are available from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We will provide a further update if these issues reemerge, but we anticipate no further issues.

Update: Resideo reports that there may still be some lingering issues for some users. However, we have tested our systems and found them to be working fine. Please contact us for assistance if you are still experiencing problems. We expect these issues to be fully resolved shortly.

2nd Update: Resideo reports that the issues have been fully resolved. Please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com if you are still experiencing issues.

Those looking for a new outdoor motion sensor have a great new option available with the Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2. This is an outdoor motion sensor with a max coverage area 30 by 40 feet and a 180° degree field of view. It is compatible with systems that support Honeywell 5800 345 MHz Sensors.

Many homeowners are concerned about unwanted activity occurring outside their homes. This can include someone lurking around the back yard or a person vandalizing property. Outdoor motion detection sensors are great for monitoring for this type of activity and making sure that no suspicious activities area occurs. Wireless outdoor motion sensors are perfect for detecting such instances and keeping the home safe. A single 5800PIR-OD2 can provide reliable detection coverage across a maximum area of 30 feet by 40 feet.

The Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2 is a simple, yet effective motion sensor that you can count on for monitoring your home's exterior. Like all passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors, the 5800PIR-OD2 works by detecting the changes in infrared energy that occur with movement. This 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Series Sensor works with a wide variety of panels and systems, including the Honeywell Lyric, the Honeywell LYNX Touch Systems, a Honeywell VISTA System with an added wireless receiver, the 2GIG Panels, and the 345 MHz Version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus.

As an outdoor motion sensor, the Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2 has an ingress protection rating of IP54. It offers a wireless communication range of 200 nominal feet. The sensor allows for both vertical and horizontal detection zone adjustments. User can increase or decrease the pulse count for the sensor to adjust device sensitivity. White light immunity helps ensure that the device can detect activity in any lighting environment. Other features include a big guard, anti-mask protection, a tamper switch, and an LED light for walk testing,

The Honeywell PIR-OD2 is available from Alarm Grid now! If you have any questions about this new product or any of our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid has learned that Total Connect 2.0 is experiencing some temporary issues. Users may be unable to perform security and automation functions during this time. They may also receive delayed notifications, and some notifications may not appear at all. But alarm signals are unaffected.

Resideo is working to fix this issues as soon as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We will update this post once we learn more. If you have any questions regarding this issue, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Remember, alarm delivery services are not affected. The central station will still be notified about incoming alarms, provided that central station service is included in your monitoring plan.

Update: This issue has mostly been resolved. Total Connect 2.0 notifications may still be delayed, and users will be unable to correct the issue using the Sync Refresh button in the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App or website. We expect a complete fix shortly.

We have great news for Total Connect 2.0 users today, as Resideo has made it recently made it possible for a maximum of five (5) SkyBell Video Doorbell devices to a single Total Connect 2.0 account. SkyBell devices are still integrated with Total Connect 2.0 in the same manner as before.

If you are unfamiliar with SkyBell Doorbells, they are perfect for monitoring the front of your home and getting activity alerts. These devices conveniently connect with your home's WIFI network, and they can easily replace nearly any doorbell that uses a standard mechanical chime. There is also an adapter available that allows a SkyBell to replace a doorbell that uses a digital chime. Total Connect 2.0 can send updates to your phone whenever a SkyBell device detects motion or whenever someone rings the doorbell. You can also get updates through the native SkyBell app.

Previously, it was possible to only enroll a single SkyBell device with a Total Connect 2.0 account. Users wanting to integrate a second SkyBell device with Total Connect 2.0 needed to get a second account set up. But for many users that will no longer be necessary. And if you were hesitant about getting a second SkyBell because you didn't want to pay extra for an Alarm Grid Video-Only Account, well no you no longer need to worry about that. This is truly the perfect time for you to expand upon your existing SkyBell account.

You do not need true video monitoring service to start using SkyBell Cameras. As long as you have a Total Connect 2.0 account with the SkyBell feature enabled, you will be able to integrate up to five (5) devices with your account. You will need to have your monitoring company enable the feature. Alarm Grid will enable the feature at no additional charge for customers who use our monitoring services. Just contact us at support@alarmgrid.com if you need to have the feature enabled.

We understand that there are some Alarm Grid customers who have existing video accounts for the sole purpose of adding extra SkyBell device. There are even a few Alarm Grid customers with third and fourth accounts just for using extra SkyBell Cameras. The great news for these customers is that these extra accounts no longer necessary. We can deactivate your extra accounts if you have them and help you set up all your SkyBell devices into a single account, provided that you have five (5) or less SkyBell devices. If you fall into this category, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com.

We are also aware that there may be some customers who want to use more than five (5) SkyBell Cameras with a single Total Connect 2.0 account. Unfortunately, this is not possible. This 5 device limit is strict, and we have no way of increasing it. However, you can still use the same solution as before for adding additional SkyBell Cameras beyond the limit. You can add an additional Alarm Grid Video Monitoring Account, and you will be able to set up your additional SkyBell devices with that account. Each account will allow you to use five (5) additional SkyBell Cameras. If you want to use up to ten (10) SkyBell Cameras, you will need two (2) accounts. If you want to use 15 SkyBells, you will need three (3) accounts. And so on.

At this time, Alarm Grid only sells one (1) SkyBell Camera for use with Total Connect 2.0. This is the Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM-TRIM. That is the rectangular version of the SkyBell. The round model, the Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM is discontinued and no longer sold by Alarm Grid. But if you come across the round model somewhere else, then you can certainly set it up for use with Total Connect 2.0. Just remember never to use an Alarm.com SkyBell with Total Connect 2.0 or the SkyBell App.

Keep in mind that SkyBell clips are stored on the SkyBell servers. They are not stored on Total Connect 2.0 or AlarmNet360. This means that SkyBell clips will not count towards your Total Connect 2.0 recording limits. They will also not count towards your security camera limits. If you already have Total Connect 2.0 Security Cameras set up, then you can add up to five (5) SkyBell devices without needing to change or remove any of your existing cameras. Remember that SkyBell video clips are available from the SkyBell servers for up to seven (7) days. After that, they are lost forever and no longer available. But it is possible to download and save any clip for permanent use. Just make sure you do so before the clip is deleted forever.

If you want to learn more about the SkyBell Cameras or our monitoring service for accessing Total Connect 2.0 using a Honeywell Security System, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We maintain support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is proud to announce that new Honeywell Lyric System Kits are now available! These new kits come included with Honeywell 5800MINI Door/Window Sensors, which are easy to enroll and install. Now is the perfect time to get started with a new Honeywell Lyric Security System!

Customers can choose between the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK Kit and the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK10 Kit. The LYRIC5800PK Kit includes three (3) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. This is a good kit for a smaller home or an apartment where not many sensors are needed. If you have a larger home or business, then the LYRIC5800PK10 Kit is most likely the preferred option. That kit includes ten (10) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. Of course, both kits can be easily expanded upon if needed. The Lyric supports 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Sensors, 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors, and 128-bit AES encrypted Honeywell SiX Series Sensors.

Previously, Alarm Grid offered Lyric System Kits that featured the VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contacts. The Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors offer the exact same performance, and they have an identical appearance. The only difference is that the Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors have a red circuit board, while the one for the VERSA-2GIG is yellow. But with the cover closed, you won't be able to see the difference. Both sensors enroll in the same manner, and they both provide excellent function as door and window contacts.

We have included some other accessories with these kits to help you get started. Both kits feature the Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Sensor. This passive infrared (PIR) motion detection sensor offers a coverage area of 40 feet by 56 feet, and it provides pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 80 pounds. As this sensor is part of the SiX Series lineup, it utilizes 128-bit AES encryption for enhanced wireless security. This military-grade encryption makes it nearly impossible for others to hack or takeover. And since the Lyric System supports up to 128 wireless zones, you will have no problem expanding on the system later if needed.

For monitoring service, the Lyric comes with a built-in WIFI card. This allows the system to connect with the AlarmNet360 Servers, provided that you obtain an appropriate monitoring plan. You should also make sure that your monitoring plan includes access to Total Connect 2.0, as that will really unlock some exciting features and capabilities for your system. By accessing TC2 through a web browser or mobile app, you can arm and disarm your system, control Z-Wave home automation devices, check system status and more. Speaking of Z-Wave, the Lyric Panel includes a built-in Z-Wave controller for adding devices like lights, locks and thermostats. You can create Total Connect smart scenes for automatic operation of these devices based on predetermined system events.

But perhaps the biggest benefit to the Lyric Alarm System is its ability to be used with Apple HomeKit. This is an interactive platform for iOS users that offers some impressive features when paired with a Lyric Alarm Panel. You can have your HomeKit devices respond automatically based on certain events of your Lyric System. And if you have a compatible HomeKit Hub, such as an iPad or an Apple TV, then you can control your Lyric System remotely using Siri voice commands sent from your iPhone. Simply put, this integration is awesome, and you will surely want to take advantage of it as much as possible! Just remember that you need to have the Lyric activated for monitoring service in order to enable it with Apple HomeKit.

We are sure that you will love your new Lyric System Kit. The panel is super easy to operate, and you will love its 7-inch full-color touchscreen display. And it looks great whether mounted on a wall or rested on a desk or table using the Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount. If you have any questions about our new Lyric 5800MINI Kits, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring plans, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Resideo has discovered that certain Honeywell LTE-XV and Honeywell LTE-L3V Communicators have a firmware issue that makes them unable to appear in AlarmNet360. The affected communicators can still process signals and report to the central station. But these affected units must be replaced.

The Honeywell LTE-XV is a Verizon LTE Communicator for Honeywell VISTA Systems, while the Honeywell LTE-L3V is a Verizon LTE Communicator for Honeywell L3000 Systems. Only certain LTE-XV and LTE-L3V units are affected. The affected units will have a date code ranging from C305 to C365 or from D001 to D023. Modules outside of those listed dates are unaffected.

If you need to locate the date code for your LTE-XV or LTE-L3V, then it is very easy to find. You can locate the code on the inside of the module itself on the lower-left corner of the MAC sticker. Remember, date codes from C305 to C365 and from D001 to D023 may be affected. These date codes are associated with manufacture dates from November 2019 through January 2020.

Additionally, not all units within the aforementioned date codes are affected. If the communicator has a blue dot on the module or on the product packaging, then it is not affected. The images below show units with blue dots on the packaging, meaning they are not affected by the issue.

Keep in mind that these blue dots will also appear on the communicators themselves. Any communicator with a blue dot is unaffected and does not need to be replaced. Remember, this issue only affects LTE-XV and LTE-L3V units. Other AlarmNet Communicators are not affected.

If you have a Honeywell LTE-XV or Honeywell LTE-L3V without a blue dot on the packaging or on the module itself, check for the listed date code to see if your module is affected. More information on this issue can be found in this document provided from Resideo.

If you believe that you have an affected communicator, or if you need help locating the date code for the module, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We're back with another weekly video recap! This time, we have four (4) new videos to show-off. All of them were uploaded right at the end of the week. Good for our video team for rallying! There are three (3) videos with Joe, and one (1) with Jarrett. Let's take a look at the videos!

Overview - Alarm.com Video Analytics

Joe bows before providing a helpful overview of Alarm.com Video Analytics. This is a feature offered with most of the newer Alarm.com Security Cameras, and it is something you will definitely want to take advantage of if you use Alarm.com for video monitoring. By using Video Analytics, you can have Alarm.com alert you for suspicious activity, while ignoring routine events that don't warrant your attention. Please note that you will need to have the feature enabled by your monitoring company that provides you with Alarm.com service.

Using a Honeywell 4219 Zone Expander on a VISTA-50P

Joe explains how you cannot use a Honeywell 4219 Zone Expander with a Honeywell VISTA-50P Security System. The Honeywell VISTA-50P is a polling loop system that can support addressable V-Plex Polling Loop Sensors when a compatible polling loop zone expander is added to the system. Only compatible polling loop expanders can be added to the VISTA-50P. You cannot add a regular hardwired zone expander like the Honeywell 4219. The Honeywell 4219 is for VISTA Low P-Series Panels only. Compatible polling loop zone expanders for the VISTA-50P include the Honeywell 4208SN and the Honeywell 4208U.

Demonstration of Glass Break Simulator

Joe shows you how to use a glass break simulator to test your glass break sensors. A glass break sensor will activate upon hearing the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking against glass, along with the high-pitched "shattering" of glass breaking. By using a glass break simulator, you can properly test your glass break sensors, without having to actually break any glass. This is the best way to test your glass break sensors. The glass break simulator Joe uses in this video is the Honeywell FG701.

Disabling the Internal Siren on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Scrublord Jarrett takes time out of his busy schedule to show you how to disable the siren for your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System so that it no longer activates. This will affect the system's internal sounder, as well as any external sirens you have added to the system. By disabling the siren, your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System will not make any sounds during alarm events. In order to disable the siren, you will need to know either the Installer Code or the Dealer Code for the system. These codes are 1111 and 2222 by default, respectively.