Does the 2GIG GC Touch Need a Cellular Communicator?

Yes, in order to sign up for monitoring (Self or Full) the GC Touch needs a cellular communicator. Fortunately, the GC Touch comes with a built- in LTE communicator from the factory. Panels that use Alarm.com for interactive service and signal transport are required to use cellular service.

Built-In Dual-Path Communication

The 2GIG GC Touch (available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE versions) supports dual-path communication via WIFI and 4G LTE. The panel uses your home WIFI network as the primary communication path to the Alarm.com backend platform. If WIFI becomes unavailable or unreliable, the built-in 4G LTE cellular communicator automatically serves as a secondary path to maintain connectivity.

This dual-path design provides enhanced reliability for alarm monitoring because the system can continue communicating even if one path fails. For example, during a power outage that affects your router, the cellular backup ensures alarm signals still reach the monitoring station. Similarly, if someone intentionally cuts your internet connection during a break-in attempt, the cellular path maintains communication.

Checking Cellular Signal Strength

You can verify cellular connectivity on your 2GIG GC Touch by looking at the status bar in the top-left corner of the display. The LTE indicator shows the cellular signal strength on a scale from weak to strong. For optimal performance, 2GIG recommends having at least 4 out of 5 bars of cellular signal at your installation location.

To run a detailed cellular test, access the System Test menu through Settings. Enter the Installer Code (1561 by default) or Master Code (1111 by default), then navigate to Equipment Management and select System Test. The Cellular Test option displays your current connection status, signal strength rating, and the communicator serial number. This test confirms that your panel can successfully communicate with the cellular network.

Choosing Between AT&T and Verizon

The 2GIG GC Touch comes in two cellular variants: one configured for the AT&T LTE network and one for the Verizon LTE network. Both versions include identical features and capabilities, with the only difference being which cellular carrier provides the communication path. When selecting your panel, consider which carrier offers better coverage in your area. The alarm panel can use a different carrier than your cell phone, if that carrier provides the strongest available signal.

If you want your 2GIG GC Touch to send signals, whether to you, a central station, or both, you will need to sign up for a monitoring plan. Since cellular communication is required, be sure to choose a plan that includes cellular service. For Alarm Grid customers, this means a Gold Plan, either Self or Full, or higher. If you prefer traditional central station monitoring without interactive features, a Cellular Monitoring plan is also available.

Additional Communication Features

The cellular connection also supports remote access through the Alarm.com app and website. Once enrolled with a monitoring service, you can arm and disarm your system, receive notifications, view event history, and control connected home automation devices from anywhere with an internet connection.

The 2GIG GC Touch simplifies system setup by including cellular communication as a standard feature. For assistance with monitoring setup or cellular connectivity, contact the Alarm Grid support team. Support is available for Alarm Grid customers Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time. You can call 888-818-7728 or email support@alarmgrid.com. A live chat agent is also available Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time.