Service Announcements Posts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alarm Recap: What You'll See

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

Alarm Recap: Who Can View

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

Alarm Recap: How To View

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

Alarm Recap: Other Details

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

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

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

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

Get the Full Picture with Video

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original Post:

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

What You May See:

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

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

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

What You Can Do:

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

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

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

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

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

Apple CarPlay is designed to shift your attention from your phone to your car's built-in touchscreen, helping you keep your eyes where they should be – safely on the road ahead. Later this month, you can add the Alarm.com app to the growing list of apps available for use with Apple CarPlay.

The bad news is, far too many people are killed in traffic accidents caused by distracted driving. But, there's good news, too. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that number has decreased steadily over the past few years. This decrease is likely due to options like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other initiatives.

According to Alarm.com:

"We’re excited to announce that support for Apple CarPlay is on the way, empowering iPhone customers to effortlessly access their favorite smart security controls right from their vehicle’s display. With a simple, driving-friendly interface, they can stay focused on the road and connected to home, no matter where they go."

The addition of Alarm.com to Apple CarPlay is coming later this month, though an exact date has not yet been provided. In order to use Alarm.com with CarPlay, you'll need the latest app version, a compatible iPhone, and a vehicle or after-market stereo system that supports the feature.

What you can expect from the Alarm.com App in Apple CarPlay:

• Receive critical alerts from your system straight to your vehicle's display.
• Open and close compatible garage doors, simplifying your departure and arrival at home or work.
• Activate custom scenes for Alarm.com-compatible automation devices.
• Run Home and Away scenes for complete control of your system in one convenient location.

In conclusion, as technology like Apple CarPlay continues to evolve, it plays a vital role in reducing the dangers of distracted driving, contributing to safer roads for everyone. The upcoming integration of the Alarm.com app with Apple CarPlay is a prime example of this progress, bringing the convenience and control of your smart home security system directly to your vehicle's display.

This means you'll soon be able to manage alerts, control access, and activate scenes with simple, driver-focused interactions, keeping your attention on the journey ahead while staying connected to what matters most at home. Get ready for a safer and more connected driving experience when Alarm.com arrives on Apple CarPlay later this month.

Up to now, Alarm Grid has never enabled Pro Video with Analytics on Alarm.com video accounts unless specifically requested by the customer. This feature comes with additional costs that we have always covered. Now that Video Motion Detection is no longer an option, we've changed our policy.

Although Alarm.com ended support for enabling Video Motion Detection on new accounts in February 2023, its effect on our video customers only became clear to us recently. One of our customers alerted us to an issue that highlighted the impact of this change, prompting us to institute this new policy.

Please note that this policy change does not affect the monthly monitoring price for Platinum (Self or Full) Monitoring or Standalone Video Monitoring. This adjustment is simply to ensure our customers receive the full monitoring experience they expect. Below, we'll discuss the differences between Video Motion Detection and Video Analytics.

Video Motion Detection (VMD)

Method of Detection: VMD detects motion by analyzing brightness and color changes in user-defined pixel areas within camera images, eliminating the need for a separate motion detector.

Configuration: VMD settings are configured using VMD windows, which are drawn by the user on a live video preview. Users can adjust the sensitivity (how much change is needed to trigger an event) and target size (the percentage of the VMD window that needs to be filled by movement) for each window.

Recording Rules: VMD recording rules can be created to trigger recordings when motion is detected in specified VMD windows. However, for some camera series, the option to choose specific VMD windows to trigger a recording is not available; any motion in any window will trigger a recording.

Best Practices: For effective detection, it's recommended to draw longer and narrower boxes, similar to tripwires, in areas where motion should trigger a recording. Avoid placing windows in areas with constant or insignificant motion like moving trees or reflective surfaces. VMD windows should not overlap, as this can lead to false activations. For outdoor cameras, creating lines or barriers with the available windows is suggested instead of one large box.

Limitations:

• VMD may not always function properly due to environmental factors like flying insects, falling leaves, or precipitation.
• Certain older camera models do not show the VMD window turning orange upon motion detection during configuration.
• The VMD windows for certain cameras are not visible to your alarm dealer (for troubleshooting purposes) in the Partner Portal, even after they've been configured.
• Sensitivity settings may affect all VMD windows for some camera models.

New accounts created after February 2023 will no longer have the option to create VMD recording rules, as Alarm.com is moving forward with Video Analytics as their primary motion-activated recording solution. However, accounts created before this date, and older cameras that only support VMD will continue to be able to use VMD, and support for it will continue.

Video Analytics

Method of Detection: Video Analytics continuously scans a property and identifies and classifies objects such as people, vehicles, or animals. It can understand traffic patterns and detect specific behaviors like loitering, or objects crossing virtual lines.

Configuration: Video Analytics rules are configured using virtual tripwires (to capture movement through an area) or ground zones (to capture objects lingering in an area). Users can define the area of interest and specify the duration an object needs to be in a ground zone to trigger a recording.

Recording Rules: Video Analytics rules offer more advanced options, including the ability to trigger recordings based on the type of object (person, vehicle, animal) detected. Existing VMD recording rules must be deleted before setting up a Video Analytics rule. Users can create up to three Video Analytics rules per camera, and ground zones and tripwires can overlap.

Best Practices:

• For accuracy, avoid drawing tripwires or ground zones over objects that move on their own (like trees or shrubs) and only draw the rule where the feet or wheels of the object should cross.
• It's recommended to observe the rule's detections and then adjust the Minimum Object Detection Size or recalibrate the camera if needed.
• Proper camera placement (height, angle, distance) is crucial for Video Analytics to function effectively.

Additional Features: Video Analytics enables enhanced notifications with thumbnail images of the detected objects. It can also be used to control lights based on detected events. Features like Perimeter Guard™ (alert sounds and flashing LED) and Package Alerts for specific doorbells rely on Video Analytics.

Additional Content on Video Analytics:

• What Are Alarm.com Video Analytics?
• How Do I Set Up Video Analytics for Alarm.com?

Summary of Key Differences:

Detection Method: VMD detects motion based on pixel changes within a specified area of the camera's field of view, while Video Analytics constantly scans the camera's view, identifying and classifying objects using cutting-edge technology and machine learning.

Precision: Video Analytics offers more precise detection and reduces false triggers by accurately identifying specific types of objects.

Rule Capabilities: Video Analytics allows for more sophisticated rules based on object type and behavior (e.g., loitering, crossing a line), unlike VMD which primarily reacts to general motion within a defined area.

Notifications: Video Analytics provides more comprehensive notifications with thumbnail images and object classification.

Summary:

In essence, Video Analytics is a more advanced and intelligent method of motion detection when compared to VMD. While VMD can be effective for basic motion detection on older systems, Video Analytics offers greater accuracy, more options, and better control over what triggers recordings and notifications.

Compatible Cameras:

Cameras That Support VMD Only:

If you are moving into a home or business with existing cameras and plan to activate new Alarm.com service after February 2023, please note that the following cameras support only Video Motion Detection (VMD), not Video Analytics. With these specific models and possibly other older cameras not shown here, you will only be able to view live video remotely; creating recording rules is not possible.

Camera Name	Image
ADC-VS1 Analog to IP Converter 1-Channel
ADC-VS420 Analog to IP Converter 4-Channel
ADC-V510 Fixed Lens Indoor Camera
ADC-VS520IR Fixed Lens Indoor Camera w/IR
ADC-V610PT Indoor Pan/Tilt Camera
ADC-V620PT Indoor Pan-Tilt Camera
ADC-V700X Weatherproof Day/Night IP Camera
ADC-V720 Outdoor PoE Night Vision Bullet Camera
ADC-V820 Indoor PoE Dome Camera
ADC-V521IR Indoor Fixed IR Camera
ADC-V721W Wireless Outdoor IP Night Vision Camera
ADC-V821 Outdoor PoE Night Vision Dome Camera
2GIG HD100 Indoor 720P Camera w/ Night Vision

Cameras That Support Video Analytics:

See the table below for cameras compatible with Alarm.com's advanced Video Analytics. Given its superior accuracy for detecting threats and gathering information about your property compared to Video Motion Detection, we strongly recommend upgrading if your cameras currently only support VMD. Start planning your upgrade today, you'll be glad you did!

Camera Name	Image
ADC-V515 Indoor 1080P Camera
ADC-V522IR Indoor 1080P Night Vision Camera
ADC-V523/ADC-V523X Indoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision
ADC-V622 Indoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision and 2-Way Audio
ADC-V722W Outdoor 1080P WIFI Camera with Night Vision
ADC-V723/ADC-V723X Outdoor 1080P Camera with IR Night Vision and High Dynamic Range (HDR)
ADC-V724/ADC-V724X Outdoor 1080P WIFI Camera with 2-Way Audio
ADC-VC726 Outdoor 1080P PoE-Capable Mini Bullet Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC727P Indoor/Outdoor 1080P PoE-Capable Mini Bullet Camera
ADC-VC728PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal Bullet Camera
ADC-V729 / ADC-V729AC / ADC-VC729P Outdoor 4MP Floodlight Camera ADC-V729 - Powered by 24V DC ADC-V729AC - Powered by 100V - 240V AC ADC-VC729P - PoE-Capable or 24V DC Powered
ADC-VC736 Outdoor 1080P Large Bullet PoE-Capable Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC826
ADC-VC827P Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Dome Camera
ADC-VC836 Outdoor 1080P Turret Camera with Night Vision
ADC-VC838PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal PoE-Capable Turret Camera
ADC-VC847PF Indoor/Outdoor 1080P Varifocal PoE-Capable Dome Camera
ADC-VDB750 Full HD Wired Video Doorbell Camera
ADC-VDB755P Full HD PoE-Capable Video Doorbell Camera
ADC-VDB770 Full HD Wired Video Doorbell Camera with High Dynamic Range (HDR)
ADC-VDB780B Full HD 2MP Battery-Powered (Rechargeable) Video Doorbell Camera Also available in a bundle with the ADC-W115C Wireless Chime Module. Some installations will require the ADC-W115C to use this video doorbell camera.
If a cameras in the above list has no link it's because it is discontinued and no longer offered by Alarm Grid.

Time for the CellBounce to, well, bounce. This device, which served as a temporary bridge for AT&T customers clinging to their 3G communicators, is now being discontinued. For those who rely on CellBounce to convert 3G signals for use on the LTE network, it's time to consider the next steps.

Mark your calendars: as of May 1, 2025, AT&T will officially cease support for CellBounce devices on its network. This means if you're currently relying on a CellBounce to bridge the gap between your old AT&T 3G/4G communicator and the AT&T LTE network, it's time to upgrade.

Failure to upgrade to a new LTE communicator, or a new system before the deadline will likely result in a complete loss of communication, compromising alarm signals. This includes critical life-safety signals like fire and carbon monoxide alerts.

You may be wondering which communicator to choose. Below, we'll give you some suggestions for how best to move past the Resideo CellBounce and that old 3G/4G communicator:

Alarm Panel	LTE Communicator	Recommended Replacement Panel	New Panel LTE Communicator
L3000	LTE-L3A (AT&T) LTE-L3V (Verizon)	PROA7PLUSC	PROLTE-A (AT&T) PROLTE-V2 (Verizon)
Lynx Touch (L7000 L5210 L5000 Panel Firmware 9.00.209+ required)	LTE-L57A (AT&T) LTE-L57V (Verizon)	PROA7PLUSC	PROLTE-A (AT&T) PROLTE-V2 (Verizon)
VISTA-20P VISTA-15P VISTA-10P	LTEM-XA (AT&T) LTEM-XV (Verizon) LTEM-PA (IP & AT&T) LTEM-PV (IP & Verizon) LTEM-PXA (IP* & AT&T) LTEM-PXV (IP & Verizon) LTEM-PIA (IP & AT&T UL Residential Fire Rated) LTEM-PIV (IP & Verizon UL Residential Fire Rated)	VISTAH3	PROLTE-A (AT&T) PROLTE-V2 (Verizon)
VISTA-21iP	LTEM-XA (AT&T) LTEM-XV (Verizon) LTEM-PA (IP & AT&T) LTEM-PV (IP & Verizon) LTEM-PXA (IP & AT&T) LTEM-PXV (IP & Verizon) LTEM-PIA (IP & AT&T UL Residential Fire Rated) LTEM-PIV (IP & Verizon UL Residential Fire Rated) Must Disable Internal Comm.	VISTAH3 VISTA-21IPLTE	PROLTE-A (AT&T) PROLTE-V2 (Verizon) LTE-21V (Verizon) No AT&T Option Available for the VISTA-21IPLTE
*The LTEM-PXA and LTEM-PXV are unique in that they can support either a wired Ethernet connection or WIFI. To use WIFI, either the PROWIFI (WIFI Only) or the PROWIFIZW (WIFI and Z-Wave) module must be added.

We realize upgrading to a new panel may be a big undertaking for a DIYer. We've got content on upgrading from a VISTA-20P to a VISTAH3 and on upgrading from several older panels to the PROA7PLUS:

• Upgrade from an L3000 to a PROA7PLUS
• Upgrade from an L5200 to a PROA7PLUS
• Upgrade from an L5210 to a PROA7PLUS
• Upgrade from an L7000 to a PROA7PLUS

If you fail to replace the Resideo CellBounce before the deadline, here's what you may experience:

• Communication Failures: "Comm fail," or communication failure, means your alarm system's regular check-in with AlarmNet didn't happen and they sent a message to the monitoring station. These supervision check-ins usually occur daily or monthly. If a comm fail happens, the monitoring station will normally contact the alarm dealer, who will then contact you, though exact procedures may vary. For Alarm Grid customers with cellular communicators, these check-ins are typically set for every day. It is possible that your system is set as "unsupervised". If that is the case, your system might be incapable of communicating and neither you nor the monitoring station would know.
• Trouble message on display. This issue can vary widely, depending on your panel type and supervision settings. When a cellular communicator is in use, there is a "cell fault time" setting within communicator programming. By default, this is usually set to 60 minutes. With this setting, if the communicator loses contact with the cellular network for 60 consecutive minutes, a trouble message is displayed by the panel. This means you'll likely see that there is a problem before your alarm dealer. This may be displayed as a bF or Check 103 depending on the panel and keypad used. If a CellBounce is the issue, the most effective way to clear this message permanently is to disable the cellular communicator in panel programming. This will effectively disable cellular reporting. A better option is to upgrade the communicator or the system.

If you happen to have an IP and GSM communicator, it is usually possible, depending on your communicator version, to disable only the cellular path for the communicator. This will leave the IP communicator working. This might be a temporary solution, until you can upgrade to a new LTE communicator, or a new system.

The CellBounce was always intended as a short-term fix for a long-term problem. Let's face it, some people just don't like being told they have to upgrade their stuff. I remember when the old 2G network shut down, I had family members who clung to their old phones right up until the bitter end! But eventually, we all have to move with the times. Funny thing is, those same family members wouldn't give up their smartphones without a fight today.

Give Back/Get Back is a program sponsored by electric utility companies in the US. During the summer, when electricity usage is at its peak, these companies offer an incentive for customers with smart thermostats to allow the adjustment of their thermostats during peak usage, lowering demand.

Our first blog about Give Back/Get Back (Demand Response) was in May of 2020. Now, over twenty electric utility providers participate in the program, with thousands of customers taking advantage of these incentives.

Here's how the Give Back/Get Back program typically works: On extremely hot or cold days, when energy demand surges, your utility company partners with Alarm.com to make small, temporary temperature adjustments in participating homes. These adjustments, usually no more than four (4) degrees Fahrenheit, may last up to four (4) hours.

The adjustment lowers the demand on the power grid and also saves you money by causing your electric air conditioning or heating usage to be reduced. Those who heat their homes using gas, wood burning stoves, or other non-electric means can still participate if they cool their homes using electricity and have a qualified, internet-connected thermostat.

The two newest areas participating in Give Back/Get Back are PJM Utility and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). PJM Utility calls its program "Power Savers MidAtlantic" and the TVA calls its program "EnergyRight Smart Thermostat Rewards".

PJM Utility:

To participate under the PJM Utility program you must:

• Be a resident of Ohio or Illinois and a customer of ComEd, Duke Energy Ohio, or AEP Ohio.
• Have a qualifying, internet-connected smart thermostat.
• Agree to allow the utility to adjust your thermostat setting during peak energy usage times.
• Connect your utility account through the PJM Utility partners Voltus or Arcadia.

In exchange for their participation in the program, PJM Utility customers who sign up will receive an entry in a sweepstakes for $10,000. Each event that you participate in will give you another entry into the sweepstakes. You always have the option to choose not to participate in a temperature offset event in either program. For full details on the PJM Utility Power Savers Mid-Atlantic program, click here.

Tennessee Valley Authority:

• If you live in the seven-state Tennessee Valley region you can check whether your utility is participating here. If it is, enroll your qualifying thermostat here.
• Have an internet-connected, qualifying smart thermostat.
• If your primary heat source uses electricity and you have electric cooling, you're eligible for the year-round program.
• If you use natural gas, wood-burning, or any other non-electric powered heat, and electricity for cooling you can still participate in the summer-only program.

In exchange for your participation, you will receive a $65 enrollment rebate for both the year-round and the summer-only program. Year-round participants will then receive a yearly $65 rebate as long as they continue to participate or until the program ends. Summer-only participants will receive a $20 rebate per participation year for the life of the program. You can read the full details of the TVA program here.

Alarm.com calls this Give Back/Get Back, but each utility company has their own program name. If you haven't seen us write about your utility provider, you can check to see if they participate in partnership with Alarm.com by going to thermostatrewards.com and looking for your electric utility's name. If it is listed, click the link and find out about your potential rewards for participation and what's required to sign up.

If you don't have a smart thermostat yet, your utility's program page likely lists compatible models, and often provides discounted purchase links. Once you install and connect your thermostat through Alarm.com, you can easily enroll in the program. Remember, incentives vary by utility, so review your company's specific program details. Investing in a smart thermostat is a wise choice, often paying for itself quickly through energy savings and program incentives.

Supported Alarm.com Thermostats:

The list of supported thermostats can vary by utility company, but in this case, both PJM and TVA support the same list of Alarm.com compatible thermostats.

• 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
• Alarm.com Smart Thermostat HD (ADC T40K-HD)
• ADC T3000
• ADC T2000
• ecobee Thermostat
• Honeywell T6 (Z-Wave version)

If you must replace a PROA7 or PROA7PLUS* panel, it is important to perform not only the proper steps but in the proper order. Failure to do so may cause some PROSIX sensors to become unresponsive, forcing a replacement of those sensors. In this blog, we'll outline the proper procedure.

As we've often noted, Resideo's SiX Series and PROSIX sensors are uniquely paired to the alarm panel during initial panel and sensor configuration. Once paired, they cannot be used with any other panel until they are properly unpaired from the original. Without this unpairing, a failed original panel can potentially render a sensor unusable.

AlarmNet360 (AN360) acts as an important safeguard. When a PRO Series panel is registered with AN360, it begins near-constant two-way communication. Any programming change at the panel triggers an upload of the panel's configuration to AN360. This creates a backup of the panel's current programming, including the essential configuration information for all PROSIX sensors.

In the event of a PRO Series panel failure, a replacement panel can be configured with the exact same zone and system programming parameters as the original. The sensor information, including wireless channel data and encryption keys, is transferred to the new panel, ensuring it matches the existing sensor programming. By following the proper replacement process, the existing PROSIX sensors function seamlessly, unaware of the panel change.

However, a significant problem arises when DIY users add new PROSIX sensors to the replacement panel before a proper AN360-based panel replacement is performed. We've observed this issue on several occasions. Customers, awaiting a scheduled panel replacement, decide to add new PROSIX sensors in the interim.

Because the panel replacement requires dealer involvement, and in the case of Alarm Grid customers, a scheduled appointment with an Alarm Grid activator, customers often utilize their wait time by tinkering with their system. This can include adding new PROSIX devices.

When the scheduled replacement occurs, customers often overlook the newly added sensors, failing to mention them to the activator. This oversight, due to the unique way PROSIX sensors function, can create a serious conflict.

PROSIX sensors communicate using 2.4 GHz, similar to some WIFI networks. Like WIFI, PROSIX sensors utilize channels within the 2.4 GHz band. If a PRO Series panel detects interference on its current channel, it can instruct all PROSIX sensors to switch to a less congested one. This ensures the most consistent ongoing communication.

During pairing, encryption keys and the designated communication channel are established. All PROSIX devices on a PROA7 or PROA7PLUS panel operate on the same channel. This channel information is regularly backed up to AN360 and transferred to the replacement panel during the swap.

Consequently, AN360 holds a complete backup of the original panel's configuration. However, the new panel now contains configuration information for the recently added sensors, including new encryption keys and a potentially different 2.4 GHz channel.

During the replacement process, the new panel's configuration is overwritten with the backup from the original panel. The information for the newly added PROSIX sensors is lost. Effectively, the new panel becomes the original panel. Unfortunately, the new sensors were paired with the actual new panel, not the restored version.

Consequently, from this point there is no mechanism to instruct the newly added sensors to release or unpair, allowing them to be paired with the restored panel. There is a narrow 24 hour window from the time of enrollment where most PROSIX sensors can be defaulted. If the window for default is missed, and the replacement through AlarmNet360 is completed, the newly added PROSIX sensors become unusable. For that reason, we recommend anyone replacing a PRO Series panel follow these steps.

Recommended Steps, In Order, For Replacing a PROA7 or PROA7PLUS:

1. Make sure the replacement panel is the same revision, or higher, as the original panel. Work with your alarm dealer to verify the panel versions. It is possible to replace a PROA7 with a PROA7PLUS. It is NOT possible to replace a PROA7PLUS with a PROA7.
   NOTE: Firmware updates require WIFI. If your location doesn't have WIFI you can use a phone as a hotspot. This will be seen as a WIFI connection by the panel and AN360, and should allow you to perform the update. Obviously, this means the panel will need a PROWIFI or PROWIFIZW.
2. Make sure both panels are powered down.
3. Your alarm dealer will begin the replacement process in AN360. They will instruct you when to move to the next step.
4. With both panels still powered down, remove any modules such as PROLTE-A/PROLTE-V2, PROTAKEOVER, PROWIFI/PROWIFIZW from the original panel and install them into the new panel. If you have a PROTAKEOVER, be sure you move the backplate from the old panel to the new panel as well. It contains the antennas for the PROTAKEOVER.
5. Power up the NEW panel. You can immediately join the WIFI network when prompted, if applicable, or wait for the cellular module to initialize then press NEXT.
6. Press REGISTER, when prompted. The panel will register then pull all available programming from AN360. When this process is finished, the panel will display the Home screen.
7. If any PROWLTOUCH or PROWLTOUCHC WIFI keypads are associated with the panel, each will prompt you to "Pair to Panel". Do this at each keypad.
8. If the original panel was a Version 01 or 02 and there were PROINDMV Motion Viewers associated with it, these will have to be repaired with the new system. Your alarm dealer will give you specific instructions on what to do. The alarm dealer will need to go to each PROINDMV zone within AN360, select EDIT, then select LEARN. At that point they will tell you to activate the Motion Viewer. You can either remove the cover, or remove and replace the batteries. The PROINDMV will then be repaired.
9. Thoroughly test each component including zones, keypads, keyfobs, communicators, etc. Use the system test mode.
10. It is now safe to add new PROSIX devices to the panel.
11. If you're using BlueTooth Disarming, all cell phones will have to be manually paired with the new panel.
12. If you used Alexa with the original panel, you'll need to set that up manually with the new panel.
13. All Z-Wave devices that were paired with the original panel will need to be excluded then included with the new panel.
14. All Total Connect 2.0 scenes will need to be recreated.

Resideo recently announced they would discontinue the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS and would continue to produce the Resideo PROA7PLUSC. We now use PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC interchangeably.

We've all been there: you step out the door, and your phone instantly buzzes with camera notifications. If you're using Alarm.com's recording rules, you'll love this update! Now, you can set a delay of from 1 to 30 minutes before those recordings start, cutting down on nuisance notifications.

Alarm.com continues to enhance its user experience with a new recording rule setting that minimizes unnecessary notifications and maximizes video storage. By allowing users to delay recordings during exit, nuisance clips are reduced, freeing up valuable upload capacity within monthly video plan limits and ultimately saving users money.

This new delay feature is compatible with all Alarm.com cameras that support modern video analytics. Older, first-generation analytics cameras, while still functional on some accounts, do not support this feature.

Configuring the recording rule delay is...unique. We've outlined the steps below in an effort to provide clarity. You can apply this setting to both new and existing recording rules. Refer to the screenshots provided for a visual guide on enabling the delay within the rule settings.

To navigate to this section via the customer website:

1. Log into your Alarm.com account.
2. Click Video.
3. Click on Recording Rules (at the top, in the blue bar).
4. Click +Add New Rule, or find the rule you want to edit in the list, then click the pencil icon.
5. In the section titled "Recording Rule" fill in the appropriate information. In the section for "Except when.." select "Disarmed", "Armed Stay" or both.
6. Select the Exit Delay Time from the dropdown.
7. Be sure to Save before exiting.

Programming the Video Rules Exit Delay via the customer website:

To navigate to this section via the customer app:

1. Open the Alarm.com app and log in.
2. Tap Video at the bottom of the screen.
3. Tap the gear icon at the top right.
4. Tap Recording Rules.
5. Tap Add at the upper right, or scroll through the list of recording rules, find the one you want to edit and tap the pencil icon.
6. Tap Next in the upper right once the first screen is properly configured, then scroll down to the Recording Rule section.
7. In the "Except when.." section, select "Disarmed", "Armed Stay", or both.
8. From the dropdown, select the Exit Delay time.
9. Be sure to click Save before exiting.

Programming the Video Rules Exit Delay via the Alarm.com app:

Actually, the setup itself is not the tricky part. It's understanding what will happen, and when, that's a little confusing. So, here's the logic. This information was provided by Alarm.com Core Technical Support:

• If you select "Except when Disarmed" and choose a delay from the dropdown, the recording rule will start after the delay time whenever the system is Armed Away or Stay.
• If you select "Except when Armed Stay" and choose a delay from the dropdown, the recording rule will begin after the delay time when the panel is Disarmed or Armed Away.
• If both "Except when Disarmed and Armed Stay" boxes are checked and a delay is selected, the recording rule will begin after the delay when the panel is Armed Away.

I'll confess, I haven't quite wrapped my head around this logic. I've found it's best if I don't overthink it! Hopefully, they'll tweak the wording and make it a little more clear somewhere down the road. Regardless, even with a slightly confusing setup, this is a fantastic addition, and I can't wait to try it out on my own system!