DIY Wired Security Systems Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Lynx-WEXT with my Qolsys IQ Panel 2?
Yes, the Lynx-WEXT can be used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. By adding the Lynx-WEXT to your Qolsys panel, an external siren, or sirens, drawing up to 1.2 Amps of current can be supported. The Lynx-WEXT contains everything except the siren. Learn more about adding a high current siren here.
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How Do I Re-Seat the SIM on My Communicator?
First, locate the SIM card for your device. Next, remove the backup battery and unplug the transformer. Remove the communicator, and extract the SIM. Make sure it is clean and free of fingerprints. Re-insert the SIM, and re-attach the cellular module. Then re-apply power. Read on to learn more.
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How do I troubleshoot a Vista-GSM4G on a Vista-21iP?
With pass-through programming, a user with an Alpha keypad can perform diagnostic testing on the Vista-GSM4G to help determine the cause of communicator issues. Using this feature, signal strength can be verified in addition to other diagnostic testing. Keep reading to learn about this feature.
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Are Wired or Wireless Security Systems Better?
In terms of functionality, wired systems can do virtually everything wireless systems can. However, wireless systems are easier to set up, and they require fewer add-ons. this makes wireless systems better for new users. Learn more about the differences between wired and wireless security systems.
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How Many Hardwired Zones Are Available on a VISTA 20P?
The Vista-20P has eight hardwired zones. Only Zone 1 can use 2-wire smokes. Zones 2 - 8 can be doubled using a special resistor setup for a total of 15 hardwired zones. With up to five Honeywell 4219 Zone Expanders, the panel supports up to 48 hardwired zones. Learn more about the VISTA 20P.
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Where is the VISTA-20P Bell Supervision?
The Honeywell Vista-20P offers supervision of the bell circuit in various ways on different revisions of the control panel. In early versions, the feature was always enabled, with the option to enable or disable supervision being introduced in later versions. Read on to learn more.
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What Resistance Should Security System Contacts Have?
The type of resistance used by a security system contact depends upon the type of security panel that is being used. The majority of the hardwired security systems offered from Alarm Grid use 2k resistors. However, there are some exceptions. Learn more about resistors and why they are used.
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Does Total Connect Have a Monthly Fee?
Total Connect is a special service that is included as part of certain alarm monitoring plans. Users pay a monthly monitoring fee for their alarm service. As long as they pay their monthly fee, they will continue to receive the Total Connect service. Learn more about Total Connect.
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Can I Add My Pre-Installed Wired Sensors to a Security Alarm?
Pre-installed hardwired sensors can be used with a new alarm system. This can save a user a large amount of money when upgrading to a new control panel. If the system is wireless, a wired to wireless converter will be needed. Learn more about using wired sensors with a new alarm system.
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What Does Bypassing a Sensor Accomplish?
Whenever you bypass a sensor before arming, the sensor that you bypass will essentially remain disarmed, while the other sensors will still arm as normal. You must individually set each sensor to bypass each time you arm your system. Learn more about bypassing sensors on a security system.
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