Video Surveillance Posts

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

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

One of the most common issues involves used or outdated equipment.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 In some cases, equipment may be damaged, outdated, or missing critical components.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resideo is about to launch three new surveillance cameras: the CX4B bullet, CX4T turret, and CX4D dome. Each model features impressive 8MP resolution with an advanced image sensor, ensuring a clear view of faces, license plates, and other important details for clear and dependable viewing.

Resideo has announced that the new CX4 cameras are expected to arrive in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025. Alarm Grid will have them listed and ready to order as soon as they’re released. For now, you can click the links below to view each camera’s product page, but purchasing isn’t available just yet — stay tuned!

New First Alert CX4 Cameras

If you haven’t been following Resideo closely, you might be surprised to see these cameras branded as First Alert. When Resideo spun off from Honeywell, it originally used the Resideo name, a portmanteau of “residence” or “residential” and “presidio.” Most readers will recognize “residential,” but for reference, Merriam-Webster defines a presidio as “a military post or fortified settlement.”

Traditionally, Honeywell Home branding has been used for Resideo’s residential products, while the Resideo name identified commercial offerings. Over the past year, however, the company has shifted to the First Alert brand. First Alert has been established for decades and offers strong name recognition, without tying back to Honeywell, which is now a separate entity.

Important Note: All the cameras pictured below are shown mounted with junction boxes. Any junction box used must be purchased separately.

Each of these cameras have the following features:

• Smart AI motion analysis helps identify genuine activity and minimizes false alerts, so you're notified only when it truly matters.
• High-definition 8MP imaging captures fine detail, ensuring reliable recognition of people, license plates, and objects.
• Flexible video storage with built-in edge recording plus secure cloud event archiving, gives you control over how footage is kept and accessed.
• Wide operating temperature range allows dependable performance in harsh environments, from -22°F - +140°F (-30°C - +60°C).
• Seamless system integration with ProSeries AIO and VISTA®H3 panels, while Total Connect® 2.0 and AlarmNet 360™ apps deliver full remote control and monitoring convenience from any location with internet access.

First Alert CX4B Bullet Camera

We don’t yet have specifications on these cameras, but generally speaking, bullet-style cameras are often optimized for longer viewing distances as compared to dome cameras. They are ideal for monitoring driveways, parking lots, and perimeters. Once mounted, these cameras typically can’t be adjusted remotely.

First Alert CX4T Turret Camera

The First Alert CX4T blends the flexibility of a dome with the clarity of a bullet. With no domed housing, issues with glare, scratches, or IR reflection are eliminated. Turret-style cameras are Ideal for both indoor areas like offices, retail spaces, and hallways, and outdoor spots including porches, entrances, parking lots. The CX4T will likely be suited for both wide-angle and medium-range surveillance. It's ideal for areas where facial recognition and detail are important, especially at night. We'll have to wait and see if remote camera repositioning is a possibility. Turret-style cameras are often limited to manual adjustment.

First Alert CX4D Dome Camera

The CX4D Dome Camera combines durability with a discreet look, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Unlike the more visible bullet camera or the more easily adjusted turret, the dome’s protective housing makes it more difficult to adjust after installation. However, the exterior dome helps guard against tampering, particularly when mounted outdoors. With wide coverage and built-in resiliance, it’s an ideal choice for monitoring lobbies, storefronts, hallways, and other high-traffic areas where both performance and aesthetics matter.

These are the most professional cameras yet from Resideo that work with its Total Connect 2.0 remote platform. With edge and cloud storage, you have flexible options for monitoring and saving AI-based video alerts. The cameras can differentiate between people, vehicles, animals and packages to provide notifications tailored to your needs.