Interlogix Simon XTi-5
Wireless Security System
This product has been discontinued and is no longer in stock.
Description
The Interlogix Simon XTi-5 is a wireless all-in-one alarm panel that serves as the primary controller for a standalone security system. The panel includes a built-in 5-inch LCD touchscreen display that makes it very easy for end users to navigate and program. This is the latest release of the Interlogix Simon panel lineup with the original push-button Simon XT and the smaller 3.5-inch touchscreen Simon XTi. Other than the panel display, the XTi-5 is essentially the same as the two earlier model Simon panels. Overall, the Simon XTi-5 is great for users who are looking for a basic control panel that can be easily upgraded to perform additional features. The relatively large LCD touchscreen display and the bright, easy to identify buttons of the XTi-5 are sure to provide a fantastic user experience.
The XTi-5 can readily communicate with sensors that operate at a wireless frequency of 319.5 MHz. This means the panel will support a wide array of legacy GE/Interlogix and Qolsys wireless sensors. The Qolsys S-line encrypted sensors are not supported. The legacy interlogix 319.5MHz protocol is a particularly diverse lineup of advanced burglary and life safety sensors. Up to 40 different zones can be programmed to the XTi-5 panel. This is plenty of zones for most homes and small businesses. While 38 of these zones are for wireless sensors only, the other two can potentially be used with normally closed hardwired contacts. These two zones can also interface with wireless sensors, just like the other 38 wireless zones, if unused by wired ones.
Out of the box, the Simon XTi-5 will only support a physical phone line (POTS) connection. In order to get the most out of the system, it is necessary to add cellular communications. This requires purchasing a separate cellular communicator module and inserting it into the XTi-5 keypad. Alarm Grid recommends the Alarm.com cellular communicators that operate on the Verizon, AT&T and Telus (Canada Only) networks. Choose the one that has best signal in your area. Once the XTi-5 panel has the cellular installed, the system can then sync with the Alarm.com interactive service.
The Alarm.com service allows users to arm and disarm their panel remotely, check the status of their security sensors and control automation devices. Alarm.com is also needed for interfacing the XTi-5 panel with interactive voice assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. There are also tons of other cloud level integrations you can benefit from such as Liftmaster MyQ garage doors, Nest thermostats and Lutron Caseta lighting systems.
Alarm.com radios also include a Z-Wave controller to provide the panel with local Z-Wave functionality. After installing the cell module, the XTi-5 will be capable of supporting up to 232 total Z-Wave devices. These Z-Wave devices are considered separate from the 40 zones on the alarm system. Some popular Z-Wave devices to use with a Simon XTi-5 System include Z-Wave lights, locks and thermostats. These devices can then be controlled locally at the pane or remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App.
The Simon XTi-5 provides support for up to eight different programmable user codes. While this isn't nearly as many as some more advanced systems, eight codes are plenty for many households and small businesses. However, if a large number of different users will be using the panel, we recommend choosing a more robust system like the GC3 or IQ2. Another useful feature of the Simon XTi-5 is its full spoken voice capability. This allows an end user to easily identify any programmed sensor that has experienced a fault or trouble condition. The panel also offers a chime function so a user can quickly tell when a door or window has been opened. Both the voice and chime functions can be toggled on or off if needed.
Please Note: The Interlogix Simon XTi-5 is simply a rebranded GE Simon XTi-5. Also, any Alarm.com cellular module will occupy zone 40. Remember to keep that zone vacant. A replacement power transformer for this system can be purchased here.
Brand: Interlogix GE Security
Interlogix Simon XTi-5 Compatible Products
Reviews
Submitted on 09/21/2020 Alarm Grid
The Interlogix Simon XTi-5 is a wireless all-in-one alarm panel with a 5-inch touchscreen display. It is basically the same panel as an Interlogix Simon XTi, only with a larger touchscreen. The Interlogix Simon Series Panels have been around for quite some time. They have received numerous upgrades throughout the years, and they can do virtually anything expected of a modern alarm panel if given the right support. But with newer and better options readily available, we wouldn't necessarily recommend going out of your way to install a Simon XTi-5. There is also the consideration that Interlogix is no longer in business in the United States, so getting assistance for this panel can be bothersome. All things considered, we give the Interlogix Simon XTi-5 a 4-Star rating.
There are positive aspects regarding the Interlogix Simon XTi-5. The panel has many cellular and dual-path communicator options available for connecting with the Alarm.com servers. This will allow you to get the system monitored and control it remotely. An added communicator will also double as a Z-Wave controller so that you can begin setting up a network of smart home automation devices. The system menus are easy to navigate, and this is generally a fine entry-level security system.
But the downsides for the Interlogix Simon XTi-5 should not be ignored. The touchscreen is easy to use, but it feels a little funny when operating. In general, the build-quality for these panels is a bit lacking, and it doesn't necessarily feel like a strong piece of equipment. The system is very basic, as you only get forty (40) zones and eight (8) user code slots. If you are using this system in a smaller home or business, then that shouldn't be a big deal. But compared with the offerings of other systems, that is very limited. There are no encrypted sensor options for the system, as you are instead limited to using strictly non-encrypted 319.5 MHz sensors. Any Z-Wave scenes you want to set up will need to be configured through Alarm.com, as the panel does not offer the capability for local scenes. And if you want to get the system monitored for use with Alarm.com, then an external communicator will be required. Finally, another major downside is the fact that Interlogix is no longer in business in North America, and the company only offers limited support as of September 2020. Overall, the Interlogix Simon XTi-5 gets a 4-Star score from Alarm Grid.
Good: Many Communicators Available, Added Communicator Provides Z-Wave, Easy to Navigate
Bad: Awkward Touchscreen, Spotty Build Quality, Only 40 Zones & 8 User Codes, No Encrypted Sensors, No Local Smart Scenes, Must Add Communicator for Alarm.com Access, Interlogix Out of Business
Bottom Line: 4 Stars
