How Do I Test a 2GIG Glass Break with a 2GIG GC Touch?

The 2GIG GC Touch (available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE versions) includes a Walk Test feature that verifies communication between your glass break detector and the panel. Access this feature from Settings using your Installer Code to start the test and confirm the sensor responds properly.

Testing your 2GIG glass break detector ensures it can reliably detect the sound of breaking glass and communicate with your security system. The GC Touch supports all 2GIG glass break detectors, except for the E+ 900 MHz version. Walk Test mode places the panel in a test state where it listens for signals from enrolled sensors without triggering an alarm. When the glass break sensor detects the appropriate sound, it transmits a wireless signal to the panel, which then displays the sensor name and signal strength, shown as an RSSI value.

Using a Glass Break Simulator

You will need a glass break simulator, such as the Honeywell FG701, to activate the sensor during testing. These devices produce a specific frequency pattern that mimics shattering glass. Position the simulator within the sensor detection range, typically within 15 feet.

The sensor listens for a two part sound, a thud or impact followed by the high frequency sound of breaking glass. The simulator detects the initial impact sound, then emits the high frequency glass break sound, without requiring actual broken glass. This FAQ explains how to use the Honeywell FG701 to test a 2GIG GB1. The process is nearly identical for testing other 2GIG glass break detectors.

Steps to Test Your 2GIG Glass Break Detector

1. Tap Settings (⚙). From the home screen, with the system disarmed, tap the gear icon in the upper right corner to access the settings menu.
2. Enter your Installer Code and press Enter (↵). The default Installer Code is 1561. Be sure to tap Enter after entering the code, as this step is required on the GC Touch.
3. Tap Equipment Management. This opens the equipment configuration menu, where you can access system tools such as sensor settings and testing options.
4. Tap System Test. This menu provides access to Walk Test, Network Test, Panel Test, and Cellular Test functions.
5. Tap Walk Test. The panel enters test mode and waits for sensor signals. The screen displays columns for Type, Zone ID, Device Name, and RSSI.
6. Position your glass break simulator within range. Place the simulator near the glass being protected.
7. Activate the glass break simulator. Arm the simulator, then strike the glass using the side of your fist opposite your thumb. This produces a low frequency sound that is detected by both the sensor and the simulator. The simulator immediately emits the high frequency sound of glass breaking. This combination should activate the glass break detector. For larger panes of glass, test multiple locations, including all four corners and the center.
8. Verify the sensor appears on the Walk Test screen. When the sensor responds, its zone number, name, and signal strength will appear on the display. The RSSI value indicates signal quality, with lower numbers representing stronger signals.

Understanding Your Test Results

The RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value shows how well the glass break sensor communicates with the panel. Values of 1 through 3 indicate strong signal strength, while values of 4 through 6 are weaker but still acceptable. If the sensor does not appear or shows consistently high RSSI values, consider relocating it closer to the panel or adding a wireless repeater. Walk Test mode times out after five minutes of inactivity.

Testing your 2GIG glass break detector using the Walk Test feature helps verify reliable communication between the sensor and the GC Touch panel. Using a glass break simulator to test the detector ensures that the sensor is properly installed and is functioning properly. Regular testing ensures your glass break sensors can detect intrusions and notify your monitoring station when needed.

If you are an Alarm Grid customer and need help testing sensors on your 2GIG GC Touch panel, contact the Alarm Grid support team by email at support@alarmgrid.com, or by phone at 888-818-7728. Support is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time. You can also visit our website to chat with a live agent Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Eastern Time.