2GIG GC3GA-A

The 2GIG GC3GA-A is an AT&T based 3G (HSPA) Cellular Communicator for the 2GIG Go!Control alarm system. It requires firmware revision 1.9.6 or higher on the control panel. The GC3GA-A will transmit programmed alarm signals and report to a central station via the AT&T 3G network. There is an included SIM card which requires no action by the customer before the registration of the device by the alarm company. Cellular communications are far more reliable than phone line or internet connections due to the infrastructure of the technology. Phone lines and internet modules rely on local equipment being powered and the integrity of the physical wired connection which in some cases can be compromised by an intruder.

When installing the unit into the Go!Control alarm panel, it is important to carefully read the installation manual and power down the system completely. There are two screws with lock washers designed to hold the board firmly in place inside the control panel. The 2GIG ANT2X is included in the purchase of any 2GIG radio. This is a 10 inch antenna that can be inserted in a wall cavity or positioned outside the wall. For best signal strength, it is recommended to use a cellular antenna such as the 2GIG ANT2X or ANT3X. If the included ANT2X is not cutting it the 2GIG ANT3X has a 10 foot cable designed to be mounted in an attic space for better reception.

After the communicator is installed and the system is powered up, the monitoring provider will have access to activate the SIM (if not pre-activated) and register the device on the Alarm.com server. Once enrolled on the server the alarm company can issue firmware updates and remotely program your control panel! A cellular communicator is required for enrollment in Alarm.com's interactive services. These include a variety of tech services including remote access for arming/disarming as well as customizable text and email notifications. On top of the the Alarm.com services, this module can also be used as a reliable communicator with a central station monitoring provider.

After the radio is physically placed in the panel it is recommended to test the cellular signal. Go into the Installer Toolbox by pressing the logo on the lower right of the keypad. Enter your installer code and click the 'Radio Status' icon. The minimum signal requirement is 7 out of 31 (7/31) or higher. If the signal is below this reading, relocate the panel somewhere higher in the home or closer to an exterior wall for better reception. You can also try the ANT2X discussed earlier or a cellular amplifier such as a 3G signal booster.