Smart Home Posts

Hi DIYers! Today, we plan to talk about some of the specifications of Z-Wave Plus and how the protocol has been improved over classic Z-Wave communication. Setting up some Z-Wave Plus devices with your system is a great way to get started in the exciting world of home automation!

You probably see us talking about Z-Wave Plus all of the time, but you might not know why we get so excited about it. If you didn't know, Z-Wave Plus is a wireless communication protocol that is frequently used with smart home devices. This includes peripherals like smart lights, door locks, programmable thermostats, and more. Many of the systems we sell and support include built-in Z-Wave controllers so you can start pairing these convenient devices. Today, a collective group called the Z-Wave Alliance is working to further improve upon this robust and convenient form of local wireless communication.

By nature, Z-Wave offers many important advantages. Wireless communication makes installation and set up super easy, which is great for DIYers who don't want to hire a professional installer. And by using them with your monitored security system, you can operate these devices remotely through an automation platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. Both platforms offer their own mobile app so that you can control these devices from virtually anywhere! And you can even establish smart scenes so that your Z-Wave devices operate automatically based on a schedule or with certain events on your system. How cool!

But not all Z-Wave devices are created equal. More recently, we have seen the rise of "Z-Wave Plus" devices, also known as 500-Series devices. This is as opposed to what we sometimes refer to as "classic Z-Wave" devices, or 300-Series devices. When given the option, you will definitely want to go with the newer and more advanced Z-Wave Plus 500-Series devices. This will provide you with the best possible end user experience.

Before we get into Z-Wave Plus specifications, we want to quickly mention what you will need to achieve a Z-Wave Plus setup. To unlock the full potential of Z-Wave Plus, you will need a Z-Wave Plus controller and certified Z-Wave Plus devices. You can use classic Z-Wave devices with a Z-Wave Plus controller, but you will only get the functionality of classic Z-Wave.

Likewise, you can use Z-Wave Plus devices with a classic Z-Wave controller, but again, you will only have the same 300-series functionality. If you want true Z-Wave Plus, you must have a Z-Wave Plus controller and certified Z-Wave Plus devices. Check for the label shown at the top of this post to determine if a device is Z-Wave Plus. That label should be found somewhere on the product box.

Now that we have that out of the way, you might be wondering what's the big deal about Z-Wave Plus. After all, you can technically do anything with classic Z-Wave that you can do with Z-Wave Plus. The thing is though, Z-Wave Plus can do it better. This comes down to a few different considerations. Namely, Z-Wave Plus offers further range, extended battery life, and better reliability overall.

When it comes to Z-Wave range, signal hopping is key. Z-Wave signals actually have the ability to "hop" through other Z-Wave devices. Each time a "hop" occurs, the signal is repeated to extend the range. A Z-Wave signal can make up to four (4) of these hops on its way to the intended destination. By adding more Z-Wave devices, you are establishing a stronger mesh network.

Z-Wave Plus devices allow for about 50 to 60 feet between hops. So you can expect a roughly 200 foot range for a Z-Wave Plus device if you have a strong mesh network for signal hopping. Conversely, a classic Z-Wave device will only offer a range of about 30 to 40 feet between hops. That's only a range of about 120 feet with a strong mesh network. By using exclusively Z-Wave Plus devices, you are getting a roughly 66% increase in range!

Battery life is also something to consider for Z-Wave devices that do not plug in or connect with electrical wiring. This is common for most Z-Wave locks and even some thermostats like the Honeywell T6 Pro Z-Wave. The Z-Wave Alliance designed Z-Wave Plus devices to consume less power, which has improved their expected battery life by about 50%. This will save you money with fewer required battery changes!

Lastly, you should consider the fact that Z-Wave Plus offers better reliability than classic Z-Wave. This is important for ensuring that any Z-Wave commands and signals ultimately reach their intended destinations. Certified Z-Wave Plus devices are also required to support Security S2, which includes complete Diffe-Hellman Symmetric Encryption for enhanced security. And perhaps most importantly, Z-Wave Plus devices can receive firmware updates over-the-air (OTA), allowing developers to streamline any needed improvements.

The future certainly looks bright for Z-Wave, as the Z-Wave Alliance is currently working on 700-Series Z-Wave Communication. This represents the future over the current Z-Wave Plus 500-Series. We do not have the details on 700-Series, including when it will be made widely available, but it is expected to communicate up to 150% further, while using even less power for improved battery life! These devices will also offer enhanced processing for signal transmissions that are up to 18% faster.

At this time, no security systems support 700-Series technology. But there are still fantastic systems like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus which support Z-Wave Plus 500-Series communication. With Z-Wave on your side, you can truly make your alarm system stronger than ever and achieve a more convenient life! If you have any questions about Z-Wave technology, you are welcome to email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Last week, we sent a small team to Silicon Valley, California to check out the 2019 Qolsys Summit. Needless to say, we were absolutely blown away with what Qolsys will soon be offering. Today, we would like to focus on some of their new industry-changing products in the pipeline.

The biggest highlight of the Qolsys Summit was the opportunity to check out the newest upcoming panel from the company, the Qolsys IQ Hub. The IQ Hub represents the vision of Qolsys to bring home security closer and more accessible to the average consumer than ever before. This is truly the optimal system for any budget-conscious consumer who wants to bring state-of-the-art security and technology into their home. It is slated for a Q1 2020 release.

We do not have all the details on the Qolsys IQ Hub quite yet. But there is still a lot that we can talk about. The most obvious addition to the Qolsys IQ Hub is its prominent speaker on the front. Qolsys is expected to introduce some mind-blowing integrations for the system that will turn your alarm control panel into a compact entertainment center.

Remember that Alarm.com already offers an excellent Sonos integration. We are sure that the IQ Hub will take full advantage of this feature and truly put it to great use. Our team did get a chance to test the IQ Hub sound quality, and we can confirm it sounds just as good as any high-end portable speaker. This is highly impressive, and we expect many users to be thrilled that their alarm system can now essentially double as a party-starter.

The next aspect you will likely notice about the IQ Hub is its standout display screen. This is a 7" touchscreen display that appears to have even higher resolution than any existing security system on the market. We do not have the exact specifications on the screen just yet, but it certainly passes the eyeball test. And as you can see from the photo above, the slideshow feature returns. Get ready to show-off some of your best photos on the Qolsys IQ Hub!

As we mentioned earlier, Qolsys seems to be envisioning the IQ Hub as a way to make the home security market more accessible to the average consumer. The new system is not expected to replace the existing Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, but it is anticipated to have a lower price point. We also expect many existing features to return to the IQ Hub, including built-in WIFI, Bluetooth connectivity, cellular LTE, and Z-Wave Plus functionality.

One thing that will not be returning to the IQ Hub is support for legacy sensors (e.g. 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, and 433 MHz devices). The new system will be entirely PowerG, and you will need to use those sensors with the system. This is fine, as PowerG Sensors offer an impressive wireless range of up 2,000 feet when used with the IQ Hub in open air. They also utilize military grade 128-bit AES encryption in all their communication to ensure maximum wireless security.

Another interesting note about the panel is that it is not designed to be opened up. This is a significant change from most existing security systems, where you will occasionally need to open up the panel to make hardware changes. The battery on the IQ Hub is sled-replaceable, and it can easily be swapped out by the end user with little effort. All of the hardware is built right in, so you will never have to make any changes in that regard. Talk about DIY friendly!

Qolsys made other various enhancements to the IQ Hub System. They touted an improved integrated camera, and it can even double as a motion sensor by detecting changes in pixelation. We also expect this feature to be used in conjunction with Alarm.com so that you can take a peak-in at your home while you're on the go. You will also notice the LED light on the front of the panel. This light changes colors to let you know the current system status. How cool!

The system also features a built-in microphone that you can use to get alerts regarding loud sounds. You can even adjust the minimum sound level required to trigger alerts. This is perfect for parents who want to know if their baby is fussing or for owners of rental properties who may want to be alerted if their guests are throwing a loud party. It's just another way that Qolsys is working hard to keep you connected with your home.

We do expect that there will be some hardware limitations of the IQ Hub when compared with the IQ Panel 2 Plus, especially when you consider the anticipated lower price point. Qolsys most likely reduced costs by dropping legacy sensor support. It's also possible that the IQ Hub will support fewer zones than the IQ Panel 2 Plus (128 zones). But we cannot confirm the exact number of zone on the IQ Hub at this time. The IQ Hub is also slightly larger than the existing IQ2+ due to the added speaker.

As stated earlier, the Qolsys IQ Hub is scheduled for a Q1 2020 release. This groundbreaking new system is sure to make some big waves in the security industry, and we are confident that it will help many new users get their start with home security. We can't wait for its release, and we hope you're excited too!

Qolsys also unveiled another interesting product at the event, the Qolsys IQ Router. At first glance, you might be wondering what's the big deal. What's so exciting about an IP router? Well Qolsys packed in some game-changing features that are sure to make the IQ Router the perfect addition to your IQ Hub or IQ Panel 2 Plus System. It is sure to make your life more convenient in many ways. And we can also confirm, it is dual-band with support for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz!

At the basic level, the IQ Router is exactly what it sounds like, an internet router. It replaces the existing router for your home's IP network. But what you get with the router is pretty ingenious. Any Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System or Qolsys IQ Hub connected with the IQ Router can be accessed remotely by your alarm monitoring company for programming purposes. This is similar to what the DSC Iotega offers. But with the Qolsys Systems, it is optional rather than mandatory.

Of course, if you don't want your monitoring company accessing your panel, then you can disable the feature. But it's pretty nice if you want assistance with programming new devices. One thing you will certainly love is its ability to auto-discover your IQ Hub System and automatically enroll it with your WIFI network. You can even configure your IP settings right from the IQ Hub. This truly makes the IQ Hub the central controller for your entire network!

Another innovation from the IQ Router is the ability to auto-enroll guest WIFI devices. In other words you can get any visitors on your WIFI network, without making them enter a long, tedious password. The way this works is that your guest will request to join the network from their IP device. You will then approve the request from either your IQ Hub or an app on your phone. And just like that, your guest will be connected with your WIFI network. Super convenient!

As you will notice, the Qolsys IQ Router only has one (1) LAN port for connecting a hardwired ethernet device. This isn't a big deal, as most users might not even need one. If you need additional ports, then you can easily connect a network switch to the router and use it however you would like.

But one very exciting feature of the IQ Router is its ability to support up to eight (8) WIFI extenders or access points. This makes it truly suitable for even large commercial locations! The router facilitates a total mesh network to help ensure that all of your IP devices stay connected across even an incredibly expansive area. Whether your needs are big or small, you are sure to get great use out of the new IQ Router! Qolsys states that it should be out by the end of this year.

We would like to end this post with some smaller product announcements we heard at the Qolsys Summit. A PowerG 360-Degree Ceiling-Mount PIR Motion Sensor called the PG9862 was unveiled. This sensor is perfect for use in closets or in commercial locations where corner-mounting is not feasible. The PG9862 is available from Alarm Grid now, and you can get it right here.

Lastly, we heard rumors about a much-anticipated PowerG Wired to Wireless Converter. This is huge news, as it will allow you to takeover an existing hardwired system and use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus or Qolsys IQ Hub in its place. And of course, all your hardwired sensors will enjoy the amazing range and security of the PowerG wireless protocol. We do not have any other details on the PowerG Converter at this time, but we will definitely keep our eyes peeled.

We hope that you are eagerly awaiting all of these new products just like we are! This was truly an awesome event that Qolsys put on, and we are thankful that we got to be a part of it. We are hopeful that Qolsys hosts a similar gathering next year in 2020! For now, check out these new and upcoming products, and email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions or thoughts. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. As usual, we look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We have a quick video recap today, with four (4) new videos this week. Three videos featuring Jorge were uploaded on Thursday, September 19th. Another featuring Joe was uploaded a day later. We hope these videos help you out. Let's take a look at the newest videos from Alarm Grid!

Finding the Installer Code on a VISTA-21iP

Jorge explains what to do if you do not know the Installer Code on a Honeywell VISTA System. You use the command [Installer Code] + [800] to enter programming. If you do not know the code, then you should first try the default code of 4112. If that doesn't work, then you might try to get in using the backdoor method. If the backdoor method fails, then you should try asking the previous monitoring company or system owner for the Installer Code.

Setting Up TC 2.0 on a Phone

Jorge shows you how to set up Total Connect 2.0 on a phone. The Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App is available for Android and iOS devices. You can get it for free from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. Once you have the app, you can login using your Total Connect 2.0 account, just like you would from the website. If you don't have access to Total Connect 2.0, then you might want to check out one of our monitoring plans to get access. Remember, TC2 is for Honeywell Panels only.

Linking a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System to HomeKit

Jorge explains the process for linking a Honeywell Lyric with Apple HomeKit. This will let you use the system with the rest of your HomeKit network. You can also get notifications regarding system activity, and you can control your system using Siri voice commands from your iPhone. For best results, you will want to have a proper HomeKit Hub established. You will also want to continue to use Total Connect 2.0 alongside HomeKit, as TC2 will provide more detailed alerts for the Lyric System than HomeKit.

Programming the 5800COMBO to a VISTA Panel

Joe teaches you how to enroll a Honeywell 5800COMBO with a Honeywell VISTA Panel. In order to use this wireless 345 MHz sensor from the Honeywell 5800 Series, you must add a wireless receiver to the system. This combination sensor will provide the smoke & heat detection, carbon monoxide detection, and freeze detection. Each function will require its own wireless zone on the system. You can also program a additional zones for maintenance detection and end of product life detection.

Hi DIYers! Today, we wanted to talk about how you can use Lutron Caseta on Alarm.com. This is a great way to have your Alarm.com Security System and your smart lights on one convenient platform. Controlling the devices in your home has never been this simple, and getting started is easy!

As you may know, the Alarm.com integration for Lutron was made possible with the release of the PRO-model for the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge. At this time, Alarm Grid offers the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 for integrating Lutron Lights with Alarm.com. You might also know the Smart Bridge PRO 2 as the Lutron L-BDGPRO2-WH. Both names refer to the same device. With it, you can integrate all you Lutron accessories with Alarm.com.

The Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 serves as the central hub for your Lutron Smart Lighting setup. All your Lutron devices will communicate with this hub. This includes any Lamp Dimmer Modules, In-Wall Switches, In-Wall Dimmers, and Pico Remotes. Setup is extremely straightforward. Just connect the smart bridge to your IP router using an ethernet cable. Then pair your Lutron devices using the Lutron Mobile App. You can pair up to 50 Lutron devices.

Being able to control your Lutron Smart Lights with Alarm.com offers many advantages. For one, you can use the Alarm.com App for virtually all of your home automation control. This will allow you to control your lights from pretty much anywhere. You can also include all your Lutron Lighting devices into Alarm.com for automation operation. For example, you might have your lights turn on whenever you disarm your security system or unlock your Z-Wave door lock.

One other aspect we want to mention is the fact that both Alarm.com and Lutron are compatible with Sonos. If you didn't know, Sonos is highly respected in the smart audio community, and they have been making some outstanding sound systems and speakers throughout the years. Your can integrate your Sonos setup with Alarm.com to have music play automatically based on scenes. Lutron even offers a special audio Pico Remote specifically for use with Lutron!

Remember that you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com to get started using the platform. Alarm Grid customers can choose from one of our Gold or Platinum Plans. More information is available on our monitoring page. From there, we will be happy to help you get started using Lutron Caseta on Alarm.com. If you have any questions, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! It's time for our video recap again, this time covering September 9th thru 13th. We have five (5) new videos this time featuring Jarrett, Jorge, and myself. We have been getting some positive feedback regarding our videos lately, thank you so much! Let's check out the new ones!

Enrolling the 2GIG PAD1-345 Wireless Keypad to the 2GIG GC2

I show you how to enroll a 2GIG PAD1-345 with a 2GIG GC2 Security System. The 2GIG PAD1-345 is a relatively simple push-button keypad that is great for basic arming and disarming. You can keep it by a second entrance in your home or business so that you can arm and disarm as you come and go. It is also compatible with other 2GIG Systems. These include the 2GIG GC2e, the 2GIG GC3, and the 2GIG GC3e.

Using a WIFI Communicator with a Honeywell Alarm System

Jorge from Alarm Grid talks about using a WIFI communicator with a Honeywell System. This can be a great way to monitor your system if you have WIFI in your home or business. IP communication is known for being fast and relatively reliable for the most part. You just need to be wary of internet outages, as they will leave your system unmonitored. For that reason, you might want to get cellular backup for your system as well.

Using L7000 Alarm Panels Together

Team MVP Jorge explains how you cannot use two Honeywell L7000 Systems together. As a general rule, it is not possible to use multiple security systems together. You cannot pair one alarm control panel with another alarm control panel. This is true even if they are the same exact system. If you want a second controller for operating your alarm system, then you should get a keypad instead. A good keypad for the L7000 is the Honeywell 5828.

Self-Monitoring an Alarm.com Security System

Super Alarm Grid Hero Jarrett explains how you can self-monitor an Alarm.com Security System. The Alarm.com service is used with many security systems. This service will send you text and/or email notifications regarding any system activity. As a result, it is possible to use an Alarm.com System without it being connected with a central monitoring station. This practice is known as self-monitoring. Just remember, it will be up to you to contact the authorities if needed!

Defaulting a Resideo Lyric Controller

Wonder Boy Jarrett shows you how to default a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. Performing a factory default on a Lyric is normally only done if you are planning to get rid of the system, or as a last resort troubleshooting step. Doing this will reset the Installer Code back to 4112 if it was changed. All zones from the system will be cleared. It will reset the panel time. And all general system settings will be reset back to their default values.

Hi DIYers! We have been talking about the IQ Panel 2 Plus a lot lately. First we revealed the new Firmware Version 2.4.0 upgrade. Then we took an in-depth look at the new firmware. Today, we're going to examine the new Control4 Integration available for the IQ2 on Firmware 2.4.0 or higher.

By using the Control4 Integration, you can control basic security functions for your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System from your Control4 Touchscreen. This includes arming and disarming from the C4 System. In other words, your Control4 System will become somewhat of a secondary keypad for your IQ Panel 2 Plus System. Meanwhile, you can still use your IQ2 as a primary Z-Wave Controller and have full functionality with Alarm.com. How cool!

The C4 Integration will work with any Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus that is running Firmware Version 2.4.0 or higher. To get started, you will want to download the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Driver to your Control4 System running OS Version 2.6.0 or higher. The driver can be found within the C4 Driver Database. From there, make sure your IQ Panel 2 and your Control4 System are on the same WIFI network.

Next, turn your attention to your IQ Panel 2 System. From the main screen, click the small grey bar at the top. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > enter Dealer Code (default 2222) > Installation > Devices > WIFI Devices > 3rd Party Connections > enable Remote Device Access > OK. The panel will then reboot to apply the changes. Return back to the 3rd Party Connections Menu, and click on "Reveal Secure Token". Then apply the token at your C4 System to pair. Remember, you must use the Dealer Code (default 2222) to access this setting. It will not be displayed when using the Installer Code (default 1111).

As this integration is still very new, it is somewhat limited at the moment. Right now, we can only confirm that the integration allows for system arming/disarming from the C4 Panel. It's possible that new features and functions may be released in due time. Still, this is quite a nice integration for anyone with an IQ Panel 2 and a C4 Home Automation setup.

If you have any questions about this integration, please reach out to us. We offer free online and phone support for Alarm Grid monitored customers. The best way to reach us is by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email as soon as we can and reply back promptly. If you prefer to call us, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you with the new Qolsys Control4 Integration!

Hi DIYers! Welcome to another Alarm Grid Video Recap, this time covering videos published on September 5th & 6th. We have a big recap this time, with eight (8) new videos being published. Jarrett, Jorge, and Joe all make appearances. Let's get right into it and check out the new videos!

Finding the CRC on a Honeywell-Resideo Wireless Alarm System

Jarrett explains how to find the CRC code for a wireless Honeywell or Resideo System. The CRC code is a 4-digit code that is unique to the panel's IP communicator. Along with the 12-digit MAC address, the CRC code is very important when activating a system for alarm monitoring service. You should make sure to write the code down and save it in a safe place once you have obtained it. You may need this code again at a later time.

Explaining the 6F Message on an Alarm Keypad

Jorge talks about the "6F" message that can appear on a wired keypad for a Honeywell VISTA Alarm System. This code is actually "bF", which stands for "backup failure". The message indicates that there is a problem with the system's communicator. The "bF" message will only appear on a Fixed English Keypad, like a Honeywell 6150. An Alphanumeric Keypad like a Honeywell 6160 will instead display "Check 103, Long Rng Trbl", which means the same thing.

Arming-Disarming the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 From Your Phone

Jorge shows you how to arm and disarm a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System using your phone. This is done using the Alarm.com service. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus includes integrated LTE and WIFI communicators for connecting with Alarm.com. You just need to have the system activated with an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to the Alarm.com platform. You can then use the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices to arm and disarm remotely.

Replacing a Honeywell 1321 Transformer with a 1361 Transformer

Joe is back, and he answers the question of whether or not you can replace a Honeywell 1321 Transformer with a Honeywell 1361 Transformer. The answer is that you can always replace a 1321 with a 1361. However, you cannot always replace a 1361 with a 1321. This is because the 1361 supplies more power than the 1321. A setup that was using a Honeywell 1361 Transformer for power might not receive enough power from a 1321 Transformer used in its place.

Displaying the MAC ID On a Honeywell Wireless Alarm System

Jarrett teaches you how to find the MAC ID on a Honeywell Wireless Alarm System. This applies to any Honeywell Panel with an IP communicator. To find the MAC address, you will need to enter programming. This requires providing the Installer Code for the system. Remember that the default Installer Code on most Honeywell System is 4112. The MAC address and MAC CRC are found within the Comm Diagnostics Menu. Clicking on Communication ID Numbers will display the codes at the top of the screen.

Devices Used With a 2GIG XCVR2-345 Transceiver on a Go!Control GC2

Jorge talks about the 2GIG XCVR2-345 and the devices that are used with it. The 2GIG XCVR2-345 is an add-on accessory for the 2GIG GC2 System. This communicator is what allows the system to work with bi-directional devices. These are devices that must both send and receive signals with the GC2 System. Some of the devices that require the use of a 2GIG XCVR2-345 include the 2GIG Go!Bridge IP Communicator and the 2GIG TS1 Touchscreen Keypad.

Monitoring and Controlling the Temperature On a Honeywell L5210

Jorge explains how you can monitor and control the temperature using a Honeywell L5210 Security System. For this to work, you will need a Honeywell L5100-ZWAVE Card installed inside the system. This is a Z-Wave controller that allows the system to support Z-Wave smart home devices. From there, you can enroll a Z-Wave thermostat with the system. This will allow you to monitor and control the temperature for the building directly from a Honeywell L5210 Alarm Panel.

Programming the Alarm Monitoring Account Information on a Honeywell L5210

Jorge covers the process for programming the alarm monitoring account information on a Honeywell LYNX Touch System. This is an important step for setting up a system for alarm monitoring service. Completing this process will allow the system to communicate with the central station. Normally, an end user will only complete this process themselves if they are bringing the system over to a new monitoring company. This process only needs to be completed if the communicator has not been released by the old monitoring company.

Alarm Grid is very happy to announce that the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 is now available for purchase from our website. This device serves as the central hub for a Lutron Smart Lighting setup. It offers a brand-new integration with Alarm.com for added flexibility and control.

It's funny, we were just talking about Lutron the other day and how great their lighting products are. We didn't know that just a few days later we would be talking about the exciting Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2. This hub supports all of the same great integrations and features as the original Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge. These integrations include Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Nest, Sonos Sound, and more.

But the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 adds the ability to integrate your Lutron Lights with Alarm.com. This is huge news for anyone with an Alarm.com Security System. Now you can control your Lutron devices and your security system from the super convenient Alarm.com App. You can even include your Lutron Lights with smart scenes for automatic operation based on a schedule or with certain system events!

If you are not familiar with Lutron Lights, then prepare to have your life brightened! These smart lights offer a multitude of great features that help them outshine similar products. By using the free-to-download Lutron App, you can create smart schedules to have your lights turn ON and OFF at set times of the day.

The Lutron App also supports Geofencing features to have your lights respond based on the location of your smartphone. This is great if you want to have your lights turn ON automatically when you arrive home, or shut OFF when you leave for the day. There is also a cool feature called "Smart Away" that will have your lights turn ON and OFF at random times during the evening to make it look like you are home. This is perfect for when you are traveling.

Remember, you will need a monitoring plan that includes Alarm.com if you want to integrate your Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 with that platform. For Alarm Grid customers, this includes any Gold or Platinum Level Plan. More information about our monitoring services is available on our alarm monitoring page.

The Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2 is compatible with all of the existing Lutron Caseta devices that were already sold on our site. We have all the resources you need to create complete smart lighting network based around Lutron. If you have any questions about Lutron or the new Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge PRO 2, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Today, we are very excited to talk about the all-new Z-Wave Plus lighting products from Resideo. These lights are very easy to use, and they will work with nearly any security system that supports Z-Wave. They will certainly make a great addition to any growing smart home.

Resideo (formerly Honeywell and Ademco) has been long-known for their alarm control panels, sensors, and thermostats. But they really haven't made much of a splash in terms of smart lighting equipment. But that should change with these brand-new lights. The lineup has everything you need to create a robust and capable lighting setup.

All of these products use Z-Wave Plus technology to communicate with a central hub. We strongly recommend making sure your Z-Wave controller is certified for Z-Wave Plus so that you get the maximum wireless signal range. Some systems that support Z-Wave Plus include the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the 2GIG GC3e. If you have monitoring service and access to Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, then you can control your lights remotely and use them with smart scenes.

These devices are all super easy to program with your alarm system or other Z-Wave hub. When enrolling, you should always make sure to exclude the device from the network first. This will clear out any information and ensure that the device can be enrolled successfully. Then enroll the device by putting the controller into its inclusion mode and activating the inclusion function on the light. It should successfully pair with the network.

Now that you know a little bit about the lights in general, let's take a quick look at all of the new products individually:

• Resideo Z5SWITCH - An in-wall light switch that is used to control hardwired lights or a ceiling fan. Replaces the existing in-wall switch.
• Resideo Z5DIMMER - An in-wall dimmer switch that is used to control hardwired lights. The light bulbs must support dimming to be used in that manner. Replaces the existing in-wall switch.
• Resideo Z53WSWITCH - An in-wall 3-way switch that is used with the Z5SWITCH and Z5DIMMER. You can use multiple Z53SWITCH devices to achieve up to a 6-way lighting configuration. Please note that a traveler wire is required for use.
• Resideo Z5SWPID - A plug-in switch that is used for controlling a lamp or other connected device. It features a manual ON/OFF switch and a pass-through "non-Z-Wave" outlet.
• Resideo Z5DIMPID - A plug-in dimmer module that is used for controlling a lamp. The light bulbs must support dimming to be used in that manner. It features a manual ON/OFF switch and a pass-through "non-Z-Wave" outlet.
• Resideo Z5SWPIO - A plug-in switch that is suitable for outdoor use. Great for operating holiday lights or other outdoor lighting fixtures. It does not include a pass-through outlet.
• Resideo Z5OUTLET - An in-wall AC outlet that provides Z-Wave Plus control to the connected device. The bottom port uses Z-Wave Plus, while the top port is always active. Replaces an existing outlet.

All of these smart lighting products are available right now from Alarm Grid! They're great for anyone looking to create a new smart lighting network or expand upon an existing one. If you have any questions about these new Resideo Lights, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We're here with another video recap, this time covering August 20th thru 23rd. As usual, thanks goes out to our video team for all the hard work they do. They managed to put up some great videos this time, and we are eager to show them off. Let's check out the newest videos!

Adding a Second Push-button Keypad to a VISTA-20P

Joe teaches you how to add a second keypad to a Honeywell VISTA System. This process applies to any Alphanumeric Keypad or Fixed English Keypad. In order to set up the keypad, you must wire it to the panel and address it. You can use any address from 16-23 for a push-button keypad. Address 16 is usually for the initial keypad, so a second keypad will typically use an address of 17-23. Remember to enable the address in programming from your first keypad if needed.

Clearing a Low Battery On a VISTA P-Series Panel

Joe covers the process for clearing a low battery on a VISTA P-Series Alarm System. A low battery trouble condition occurs when battery fails a Load Test and determines that the battery cannot properly support the current load. To fix a low battery, you need to either give the battery some time to charge, or replace it with a new one. Then you must have the system pass a Load Test to clear the trouble. Remember, the typical battery life is about three (3) to five (5) years.

Properly Testing the Honeywell 5800CO with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Joe explains how you can properly test the Honeywell 5800CO Carbon Monoxide Sensor with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. This device only works with the 345 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. You can easily test the sensor's communication with the panel by using the recessed test button. But if you want to test the sensor's ability to detect carbon monoxide gas, then you can use canned CO to complete a test. Be very careful when using canned CO!

Updating a LYNX Touch Panel Using the LynxTouch-MSD Tool

Joe is back for more, as he teaches you how to update a Honeywell L5210 or a Honeywell L7000 by using the Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Firmware Updater Tool. You might need to upgrade the firmware on one of these panels if you are trying to use an LTE communicator with the system. This includes the Honeywell LTE-L57A AT&T LTE Communicator and the Honeywell LTE-L57V Verizon LTE Communicator. You will need to power down the panel and open it up to complete the updating process.

The Difference Between Total Connect Comfort and Total Connect 2.0

Jorge explains the difference between Total Connect Comfort and Total Connect 2.0. Total Connect Comfort is an interactive platform designed strictly for use with certain Honeywell WIFI Thermostats. Total Connect 2.0 is much more robust, as it is used with Resideo Security Systems and a variety of different smart home devices, including Z-Wave devices. If you have a monitoring plan that includes access to TC2, then there is very little reason to keep using the Total Connect Comfort App.

Setting Up Automation On the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Smiling Jarrett is back! And he's gonna show you how to set up automation on your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. Nearly any Z-Wave smart home device can be paired with the system. The panel has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, so you will get maximum range and battery life if you use Z-Wave Plus devices. Before adding Z-Wave devices, you should clear it from the network first. You can also use Alarm.com to control the Z-Wave devices on your IQ Panel 2 if you have the system monitored.