The WeBoost 470101 is a cellular amplifier that boosts LTE cellular signals to ensure reliable connectivity. The module will boost the cell signal for any device used in the vicinity. It isn't just for a security system that uses a cellular communicator, as it will also boost the cell signal for a personal phone or any other device using LTE cellular communication. This makes the WeBoost 470101 extremely versatile. However, the high price-tag may be off-putting for some users. Still, this is a great cellular amplifier if you need to increase the signal strength for your security system, as well as other cellular devices in your home. We give the WeBoost 470101 LTE Cellular Amplifier a 5 Star rating.

There are many things to like about the WeBoost 470101. For one, the unit boosts the cellular signal for every LTE cellular device in the area. It can be used with multiple cellular devices at once. Many users who have trouble getting good cellular reception on their phone will use a cellular amplifier, and they can really achieve some great results with this unit. We offer the device with security systems in mind, but you really might use it for a number of different applications. Another benefit of the WeBoost 470101 is that it works with nearly any cellular service provider, including AT&T and Verizon. This is important, as you won't need to worry as much about compatibility.

There are not many downsides regarding the WeBoost 470101. One issue is that it only boosts LTE cellular bands. It cannot be used with older 3G or CDMA cellular signals. Older cellular networks are going to be discontinued in the coming years, so this really isn't a big issue. But only try to use the WeBoost 470101 Cellular Amplifier with your alarm system after you have upgraded to LTE. And if you have a phone that connects with a 5G network, then don't expect it to boost 5G signals. Another downside to the module is its high cost, which can deter some users. And there is also the fact that the WeBoost 470101 will only boost the signals for devices that are within its range. Therefore, your entire house may not be covered if you have a larger home. But these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the WeBoost 470101 a 5-Star rating.

Good: Boosts Signals For Multiple Devices, Extremely Versatile, Works w/ Most Service Providers

Bad: LTE Only, Expensive, Devices Must Be In Range

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Altronix 6062 is a relay module that includes a built-in timer function. It is used to activate another device when a certain action occurs on the system. For example, the relay might trigger a power supply to activate a siren when an alarm occurs on the system. The integrated timer function is a nice feature for the device, as it will deactivate the device after a set amount of time. One practical application of this feature is with a siren. The relay timer can override the system's bell timeout and tell the power supply to cut power to the siren either before or after the regular system bell timeout expires. We really like the Altronix 6062 as a timed relay, so we give it 5 Stars.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Altronix 6062. For one, it offers a power input option of 12VDC or 24VDC to accommodate a greater number of devices. The timer is an obvious positive attribute, as it offers the ability to stop operation for the connected device after a set period of time. For instance, the relay will tell a power supply to stop providing power to a connected device after the set time duration. The timer can be adjusted for 1 second to 60 minutes for greater flexibility. The relay offers multiple trigger options including positive DC voltage, dry contact closure, and removal of contact closure.

There are not many downsides regarding the Altronix 6062. As a relay device, it can't really do anything on its own. It must be used with a connected device. Wiring is not included with the Altronix 6062, so you will need to provide your own. The device draws some current from the panel, specifically, 40mA when active and 3mA in standby mode. But really these downsides are extremely minor, and they do not stop us from giving the Altronix 6062 a 5 Star rating.

Good: Power Input Option, Timer, Multiple Trigger Options

Bad: Must be Connected to Device, Wiring Not Included, Draws Current

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The 2GIG DW30-345 is a wireless outdoor door and window contact sensor that operates at the 2GIG 345 MHz frequency. It is compatible with all of the wireless 2GIG Panels, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz, and the Honeywell Lyric Controller. This device is great for monitoring a fence, a gate, a barn door, or any outdoor opening. It can even be used to monitor an overhead door thanks to its large, 2-inch magnet spacing gap. Overall, the 2GIG DW30-345 is a very versatile and reliable sensor that can certainly make a nice addition to almost any security system. That is why we give it a 5-Star rating.

There are many positive aspects surrounding the 2GIG DW30-345. For one, it is weather-resistant and able to be used nicely in almost any outdoor environment. The large magnet spacing gap of two (2) inches is also a major benefit, as it greatly expands upon the ways that you can use the sensor. The sensor offers nice versatility as a 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor, as it can be used with a nice selection of security systems. And its ability to monitor virtually any outdoor opening must also be recognized as a positive attribute.

There are not many downsides regarding the 2GIG DW30-345. One minor issue is that it is a relatively larger sensor. This is the case for most outdoor door and window contacts, so you probably won't find a more compact option. The sensor relies on two (2) AA batteries for power, and they will need to be replaced periodically. There is also the fact that the sensor has an open air range of roughly 350 feet, and that may not be enough for certain applications. A compatible wireless repeater like the 2GIG RPTR1-345 can help overcome this issue. But these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the 2GIG DW30-345 a 5-Star score.

Good: Weather Resistant, Large Magnet Spacing Gap, Interfaces w/ Wide Selection of Systems, Many Potential Uses

Bad: Large Size, Relies on Batteries, Limited Wireless Range

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell CDMA-L3 is a discontinued cellular communicator for a Honeywell L3000 LYNX Plus Security System. This cellular communicator was able to be activated for connectivity with the Verizon CDMA Cellular Network. But with the news that Verizon is shutting down their CDMA Network in favor of their newer and better LTE and 5G Networks, it is no longer possible to activate a Honeywell CDMA-L3 for monitoring service.

But if you have a Honeywell CDMA-L3 that has already been activated, then it will continue to work until Verizon shuts down the network permanently. Also understand that if you deactivate the module for any reason, it cannot be reactivated. Anyone using a Honeywell CDMA-L3 with their LYNX Plus System for monitoring is encouraged to update to an LTE communicator like the Honeywell LTE-L3V as soon as possible. As we can no longer recommend using the Honeywell CDMA-L3, we can only give it a 4 Star rating.

There are positive aspects regarding the Honeywell CDMA-L3. For one, if the unit has been previously activated, then it will continue to work until Verizon shuts down the associated CDMA Network. The unit allows for connectivity with Total Connect 2.0, provided that the user has an appropriate alarm monitoring plan. Since this is a cellular communicator, it provides extremely reliable connectivity with the Resideo AlarmNet Servers.

But the downsides to the Honeywell CDMA-L3 should not be ignored. The communicator can no longer be activated for new monitoring service due to the CDMA sunset. Once Verizon shuts down the network, the CDMA-L3 will be completely obsolete and stop working entirely. There is also the fact that the Honeywell CDMA-L3 has been discontinued, and it can no longer be purchased new. With all of this in mind, we only give the Honeywell CDMA-L3 a 4 Star rating. This is largely due to the fact that it was once a reliable communicator for monitoring service. But due to evolving technology, that is no longer considered to be the case.

Good: Will Work Until CDMA Network Shutdown, Total Connect 2.0, Reliable Connectivity

Bad: Can No Longer Be Activated, Network Being Shut Down, Discontinued

Bottom Line: 4 Stars

The Interlogix Simon XTi is an early wireless all-in-one security system that is still occasionally used. It is a relatively limited system, and it is not one that we would necessarily recommend purchasing today. The most common reason why someone encounters a Simon XTi that they are considering getting monitored is because they find an existing unit inside of a home they have purchased. It is certainly possible to take an existing Simon XTi System and get it set up for monitoring service. Often, a new cellular or dual-path communicator is all that is required. But because of the add-ons required, buying a new Simon XTi is not a very cost-effective option. There is also the fact that it is far from being the most advanced option available, and it is a fairly lackluster option in terms of system capabilities. For those reasons, we only give the Interlogix Simon XTi a 3 Star rating.

There are some positive aspects regarding the Simon XTi. The system can be easily upgraded to support cellular or dual-path communication by adding the proper module. There are even some LTE communicators available that will keep the system online well into the very distant future. Compatible 319.5 MHz wireless sensors can be auto-enrolled with the system, which is pretty convenient. And you can even use the system with the Alarm.com platform, provided that you sign-up for a compatible monitoring plan. An Alarm.com Communicator will also double as a Z-Wave controller so that you can operate automation devices locally at the panel and remotely from Alarm.com.

But the downsides to the Simon XTi should not be ignored. It is a very limited system, as it only has support for 40 wireless zones. This will be insufficient for most large homes and businesses. The touchscreen on the Simon XTi feels cheaply made, and you can certainly tell that this is a "budget" security system. And there is also the factor that Interlogix went out of business, and receiving support for the Simon XTi may become a difficult task eventually. With these downsides in consideration, we only award the Interlogix Simon XTi with 3 Stars.

Good: Upgrade to LTE, Auto-Enrollment for Wireless Sensors, Alarm.com, Able to Add Z-Wave Functionality

Bad: Only 40 Zones, Poor Build Quality, Interlogix is Defunct

Bottom Line: 3 Stars

The Alarm.com ADC-VC726 is an outdoor mini bullet camera that is built for use with the Alarm.com platform. The camera offers a discreet, compact design, as well as 1080p recording capabilities. The camera has an IP67 weatherproof rating, which makes it suitable for use in an outdoor environment. The camera utilizes power over ethernet (PoE) technology for power. An ethernet connection is required, as the camera is incapable of connecting with a WIFI network. Overall, the ADC-VC726 is a great camera, especially for use in a commercial setting. That is why we give it a 5-Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Alarm.com ADC-VC726. For one, it offers fantastic 1080p recording quality. The camera is only 6.1" long and 2.76" wide, making it very discreet and easy to hide in tight spaces if needed. The fact that this camera uses PoE technology for power is nice, because you only need to run one single wire for both network and power. We also like the fact that the camera as an IP67 weatherproof rating for outdoor use. It can withstand virtually any outdoor temperature, which adds upon its great versatility. And the ADC-VC726 has tremendous IR night vision capabilities, as it is rated for capturing activity from up to 95 feet away in the dark.

There are not many downsides to the Alarm.com ADC-VC726. One issue is that the camera must use ethernet connectivity for accessing an IP network. In other words, the camera cannot connect directly with a WIFI network. This is relatively common for commercial-grade cameras, but it is still a limitation nonetheless. However, you can overcome this issue by using a compatible ethernet to WIFI bridge with PoE capabilities, such as the Alarm.com ADC-W110. One other issue with the Alarm.com ADC-VC726 is that it can only be used with Alarm.com. You cannot use it with a different platform, such as Total Connect 2.0. But overall, these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from awarding the Alarm.com ADC-VC726 with a perfect 5-Star score.

Good: 1080p, Compact Size, PoE, IP67 Weatherproof, IR Night Vision

Bad: Cannot Connect Directly to WIFI, For Alarm.com Only

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Alarm.com ADC-SEM100-CDMA is a discontinued Alarm.com Cellular Communicator for Honeywell VISTA Security Systems. This device is one of many System Enhancement Modules (SEMs), which are used to connect various security system with Alarm.com and provide them with remote Z-Wave control. Having an SEM device for a Honeywell VISTA System is somewhat unique, as it will allow you to use the system with Alarm.com as its interactive monitoring and automation platform. Normally, a Honeywell VISTA System would use Total Connect 2.0 for this purpose. But if you prefer to use Alarm.com with your Honeywell VISTA, then an SEM is for you. But we do not recommend the ADC-SEM100-CDMA for this purpose. This is because it communicates across the Verizon CDMA Network, which is being shut down in the coming years. Instead, we recommend using an LTE module instead. Coupled with the fact that the communicator is discontinued, we only give it a 3 Star rating.

There are some aspects we liked about the Alarm.com ADC-SEM100-CDMA. For one, it allowed for connectivity with Alarm.com. This is a great interactive platform for controlling your system remotely. You can access the service from virtually anywhere to arm and disarm your system, check system status, control Z-Wave devices, and more. And since the ADC-SEM100-CDMA has a built-in Z-Wave controller, you will be able to build an automation network around the system. Just be aware that all Z-Wave devices will need to be controlled remotely through Alarm.com. Since this is a cellular communicator, it provides reliable cellular service when active.

But the downsides regarding the Alarm.com ADC-SEM100-CDMA should not be ignored. For one, it is discontinued, and it can no longer be purchased new. You shouldn't purchase a used model either, as the ADC-SEM100-CDMA can no longer be activated for monitoring service. This is because the Verizon CDMA Cellular Network is being shut down soon, and Alarm.com no longer allows new CDMA activations. If you have an existing ADC-SEM100-CDMA, then it will continue to work until Verizon shuts down their CDMA network. But once the network is shut down, then the communicator will no longer work at all. Therefore, you should upgrade to an LTE communicator as soon as possible. A good SEM device for a VISTA that uses LTE connectivity is the Alarm.com ADC-SEM210-VT-VZ. With these downsides in mind, we give the Alarm.com ADC-SEM100-CDMA a 3 Star rating.

Good: Alarm.com, Built-In Z-Wave, Reliable Cellular Communication

Bad: Discontinued, Can No Longer Be Activated, Will Stop Working Once Network Shut Down

Bottom Line: 3 Stars

The 2GIG DBELL1-345 is a wireless doorbell that communicates at the 2GIG 345 MHz frequency. When the doorbell is pressed, it functions as a "fault" on the assigned zone. The system can then use this "fault" as a trigger for another programmed device, or it can simply provide a chime or voice annunciation on the system to let the user know that the doorbell was pressed. How exactly the device can be used will depend on the system it is programmed with. But regardless, this is a simple, yet effective doorbell for a security system, and we give it a 5 Star rating.

The main thing we like about the 2GIG DBELL1-345 is just its sheer convenience. It isn't a super fancy or overcomplicated doorbell by any means. You simply enroll it with your system on a wireless zone, and pressing the button will cause a zone fault. You can program the zone in any manner that you would like. But the most common programming setting involves a Sensor Type or a Response Type where no alarm will be triggered on the system, but a chime and/or voice annunciation will be made. Another common programming setting is to set the zone so that pressing the doorbell triggers an automation device, such as a light or garage door opener.

The biggest downside to the 2GIG DBELL1-345 is that fact that it has somewhat limited compatibility. As a 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor, it can only be used with 2GIG Panels and the Honeywell Lyric. If you have a different system like a LYNX Touch or a VISTA, then it will not be able to enroll. There is also the consideration that it will require periodic battery replacements. But these downsides are extremely minor, and they do not stop us from giving the 2GIG DBELL1-345 a 5 Star rating.

Good: Convenient, Trigger Chime/Voice, Activate Scenes

Bad: Limited Compatibility, Requires Battery Replacements

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB is an outdoor cellular antenna designed to boost the signals of cellular communicators. It was originally called the Honeywell GSM-ANT3DB, but the name was changed to CELL-ANT3DB to reflect the fact that the antenna can boost both 3G and LTE signals. As an outdoor antenna, the CELL-ANT3DB is usually installed on a roof or inside an attic. It can provide a stronger signal boost than most indoor antennas. However, it does require some special hardware to set up, and it is only compatible with certain Honeywell Communicators. Overall, we think the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB is a very useful antenna, so we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB. For one, it provides a strong, 3dB gain, which should provide a major boost in cell signals, even for those in rural areas. The device is waterproof, which gives the user some good options in choosing a mounting location. You want to have the antenna high up and facing the nearest cell tower. Mounting hardware comes included, so that you can get started installing the antenna.

However, there are some downsides for the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB that should also be considered. An SMA to N connector, such as the Honeywell WA7626-CA, must be purchased separately, as it is needed to connect the antenna to the communicator. Also, make sure to check compatibility, as the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB will only work with certain Honeywell Cellular Communicators. And like any antenna, the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB will need to be installed. This may be difficult for a DIYer if the antenna is being installed on the roof. But overall, these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB a 5 Star rating.

Good: 3dB Gain, Waterproof, Included Mounting Hardware

Bad: Extra Equipment Required, Must be Installed, Only Compatible w/ Certain Communicators

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The August Smart Lock Pro is a multi-protocol smart lock that offers some great features and functions. As a Z-Wave Plus lock, it can interface with virtually any Z-Wave controller. The device is set up using the August Home App, which is available for both Android and iOS. You can use Bluetooth communication to set up the device using the app on your phone, with no additional equipment being required. But in order to get the most out of the August Smart Lock Pro, you will want to get the August Connect WIFI Bridge, which is sold separately. Otherwise, you will need to be within Bluetooth range for controlling the device, or you will need to have a remote interactive platform for operating the lock. While the August Smart Lock Pro is a robust, powerful lock in theory, we have found it to be rather wonky to set up and somewhat cumbersome. The idea of having HomeKit and Z-Wave in one smart lock device sounds tremendous on paper, we can only give this product a 4 Star rating, due to the number of issues we have experienced.

There are aspects we like about the August Smart Lock Pro. For one, it is compatible Apple HomeKit, which is fantastic for iOS users looking to build around the HomeKit network. Z-Wave Plus connectivity is also super important, as you can interface the lock with virtually any Z-Wave hub. If you successfully pair the device with a security system that features a built-in Z-Wave hub, then the system will automatically push the lock over to its associated interactive automation platform, such as Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. The lock's Z-Wave functionality and HomeKit compatibility make it possible for the lock to interface with a wide selection of voice assistants, including Google Home, Amazon, Alexa, and Apple Siri. We also like the fact that the lock has built-in Bluetooth for local wireless communication.

But there are a couple of key downsides that we must mention regarding the August Smart Lock Pro. Most notably, its connectivity is rather wonky and unreliable in our experience. We have had trouble getting it to enroll with certain Z-Wave networks, and calibrating the lock can be somewhat of a chore. All of the setup and troubleshooting for the device is done through the August Home App, which is rather cumbersome. While most Z-Wave devices have some type of button or other method for including/excluding on the device itself, the August Smart Lock Pro requires this to be done through the app. This requires creating an account and going through a long list of inconveniences. There's also the fact that the lock cannot use WIFI unless an August Connect WIFI Bridge is added.

While the August Smart Lock Pro certainly boasts some impressive features on paper, we can only give it a 4 Star rating due to its flaws.

Good: HomeKit and Z-Wave Compatibility, Use w/ TC2 and ADC, Works w/ Many Voice Assistants, Built-In Bluetooth

Bad: Wonky and Unreliable Connectivity, Difficult Enrolling and Calibrating, Requires Use of August Home App, No WIFI Unless Connect Bridge is Added

Bottom Line: 4 Stars