November 2018 Archives

Door contacts represent some of the most popular sensors that are used with alarm systems. Nearly every setup will incorporate these devices in some form. After all, knowing when a door has been opened is critical for most systems. But there is a lot to consider when choosing door contacts.

A door sensor is a device that is used to let an alarm control panel know when a door has been opened. When this happens, the system will respond depending on panel's current arming state and the programming settings for the zone. Some popular responses for door contacts include requiring a system disarm within the entry delay period, producing a simple chime and triggering an immediate alarm. These responses are present with virtually any door contact and system setup. A previous blog post of ours actually covers the Response Types for door sensors in greater detail. We recommend checking out that post for more information. But while the general functionality is the same across almost any contact, selecting the best option for your system might seem overwhelming.

Perhaps the first thing you should consider is whether you want a hardwired contact or a wireless contact. A wired contact will communicate with the panel through a direct hardwired connection. A wireless contact will communicate with the panel through wireless RF signals. The advantage to a wireless sensor is that it will be much easier to set up, since no wires will need to be run from the system to the sensor. But some users prefer hardwired sensors, as they essentially become a fixture for the building itself. Another advantage to hardwired contacts is that they don't use batteries. This means that a user will never have to buy new batteries for their hardwired contact. There are all types of door sensors in both the hardwired and wireless variety.

If you choose a hardwired contact, you will need to have a hardwired zone available on your system. Most hardwired contacts can be used with nearly any system that supports hardwired sensors. On the other hand, if you choose a wireless contact, you will need to have a wireless zone available. You will also need to make sure the wireless contact communicates at an RF frequency that is compatible with your system. Knowing which wireless RF signals are accepted by your alarm system is very important for getting sensors to work properly. Some of the most popular RF signals used by alarm systems include 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, 433 MHz, 915 MHz and 2.4 GHz. Remember to always make sure the wireless door contact you choose operates at a frequency that works with your alarm system!

Another major distinction for door contacts is whether they are surface-mounted or recessed. A surface-mounted contact is visible on the outside of the door. A recessed contact is hidden inside the door and its frame. As a general rule, surface-mounted contacts are easier to install, since no holes need to be drilled. But the advantage to recessed contacts is that the end result can appear neater, since no sensor will be visible. We generally recommend that users installed surface-mounted sensors, due to the fact that they are easier to install and generally offer more reliable performance.

With that in mind, door sensors can be assigned to one of four major categories. These are wireless surface-mounted contacts, wireless recessed contacts, hardwired surface-mounted contacts and hardwired recessed contacts. Regardless of which category a door contact is assigned, these devices generally all work in the same way. Most door contacts consist of a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is installed on the stationary portion of the door frame, while the magnet installed on the moving portion of the door. In most cases, the magnet must be within a half-inch of the sensor. Placing the sensor itself on the stationary portion of the door helps prevent it from being damaged when the door is opened or closed. Once the door is opened, the magnet will separate from the sensor and cause a reed switch inside the sensor to activate. The sensor will then alert the system to let it know that the door has been opened. Please note that there are a few door sensors that are exceptions to this general operation. Namely, recessed sensors that use a plunger switch, like the wireless Honeywell 5800RPS and the hardwired Honeywell 956RPT.

Before we get into general door contacts that would be used for most applications, we want to make special mention of some more unique sensors that would be used for specific setups. Honeywell offers many hardwired wide-gap contacts that can be used with garage doors and industrial applications. The advantage to these sensors is that they can utilize a much larger spacing gap between the sensor and magnet than what is possible with standard door contacts. We have seen some industrial contacts where the spacing gap can be up to 2.5 inches. That's five times the recommended maximum spacing gap for standard door contacts! Some examples of these industrial-grade hardwired contacts include the Honeywell 958, the Honeywell 968XTP, the Honeywell 959, the Honeywell 958-2, the Honeywell 950W, the Honeywell 960 and the Honeywell 7945. Many of these industrial-grade contacts are also suitable for outdoor use. Another option for a garage door is to use a tilt sensor, like the Honeywell 5822T or an Interlogix TX-E401.

But if a user requires a wireless contact for an outdoor application, there only option is really the Honeywell 5816OD. This wireless contact offers a recommended maximum spacing gap of 1.5" inches, and it is great for use with fences and outside doors. It has a nominal range of 200 feet when used with most systems. As a 345 MHz Sensor from the Honeywell 5800 Series, it will work with nearly any Honeywell Alarm System.

If you don't require an industrial or an outdoor contact, you will most likely be able use a relatively standard contact with your alarm system. We prepared a table below that outlines many of the most popular and widely used door contacts sold by Alarm Grid. Please note that not every contact is included - there would be too many to list! But this is a good chart to help you find the perfect sensor for your system.

If you're still having trouble deciding on the perfect door contact for your alarm system, our experts are always happy to help. You may email us at support@alarmgrid.com, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during normal business hours, which are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is happy to announce that many of the wireless modules from iDevices are now available on our site! These convenient modules are all compatible with the Apple HomeKit platform, as well as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. No external hub is needed to get these modules connected.

All of the iDevices modules are set up using the iDevices Connected App that allows the user to connect them to a local WIFI network. The modules can then be set up for voice control using Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The HomeKit compatibility is particularly exciting, as the user can operate the module from virtually anywhere using their iPad or iPhone. They can also integrate the module into HomeKit Smart Scenes for automatic operation and control. These modules also offer energy consumption data so that users can better manage their energy costs.

The following smart modules from iDevices are now available:

• iDevices Plug-In Smart Switch
• iDevices Smart Socket
• iDevices Outdoor Plug-In Switch
• iDevices In-Wall Switch
• iDevices In-Wall Dimmer Switch
• iDevices In-Wall Outlet

These modules are also compatible with the iDevices Wireless Instant Switch that serves as a connected wireless remote controller for on-site operation. The switch can be wall-mounted for a neat and tidy installation. Alarm Grid is also now offering various kits that include an iDevices Wireless Instant Switch and an iDevices Smart Module.

The following iDevices Kits are available:

• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & Outdoor Plug-In Switch
• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & Smart Socket
• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & In-Wall Switch
• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & In-Wall Dimmer Switch
• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & In-Wall Outlet
• iDevices Wireless Instant Switch & Plug-In Smart Switch

Also available from iDevices is the iDevices Smart WIFI Thermostat. This smart thermostat is also HomeKit-compatible, and it replaces the existing thermostat in a home or business. It offers an effective any convenient way to control almost any HVAC system. Voice functionality for the iDevices Smart Thermostat is available through Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Programming options for the module allows a user to control their HVAC system in a way that suits their lifestyle, while also saving them money.

Alarm Grid is also now offering the WIFI version of the Honeywell T6 Pro Thermostat. Previously, we only offered the Z-Wave Version of the T6 Pro. The T6 Pro Z-Wave is still recommended for users who want to control the thermostat from their HomeKit security system, as well as those who want to use their thermostat with Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. But the advantage to the WIFI version is that it is compatible with Apple HomeKit. Any iOS user who has a HomeKit setup or is looking to get started with the HomeKit service should strongly consider this outstanding device!

Finally, we have also added the additional smart products:

• Carrier Côr Smart WIFI Thermostatr Smart WIFI Thermostat
• Leviton 15 Amp Decora Smart Switch
• Leviton 600 Watt Decora Smart Dimmer
• Leviton 1000 Watt Decora Smart Dimmer

If you have any questions about these new products, do not hesitate to reach out to use. You may contact us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during normal business hours, which are 9am to 8pm EST M-F.

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the Honeywell 5800FLOOD Wireless Flood and Temperature Sensor. This device provides monitoring for water leaks and extreme temperature changes. It will work with any panel that accepts the 345 MHz frequency, including most Honeywell and 2GIG Systems.

The 5800FLOOD is a great device for anyone who needs reliable monitoring for water leaks or potential flooding. The sign of a good flood sensor is the ability to detect leaks before they cause costly damage, without setting off any false alarms. The 5800FLOOD will activate once its built-in water probes have detected at least a quarter-inch of liquid. The device will respond within 22 seconds for a quick and accurate alert about the potential for water damage.

Alarm Grid recommends using the 5800FLOOD in places that are most prone to experiencing water damage. Popular locations include bathrooms, laundry rooms, furnace rooms, basements and garages. You will want to put the 5800FLOOD in the area of the room where a water leak will most likely occur or where the water is most likely to accumulate. Once the device detects a leak, it will send an alert to security system to let it know about the situation.

In addition to flood sensing, the 5800FLOOD also operates as a viable temperature sensor. The low-temperature loop will have the sensor respond upon detecting a temperature of 45 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for 10 consecutive minutes. This is great for catching a broken HVAC unit before the pipes freeze and cause serious damage. Meanwhile, the high-temperature loop will have the sensor respond after detecting a temperature of 95 degrees or higher for at least 10 minutes.

When programming the 5800FLOOD, the loop number that is set will determine how the sensor is used. There are three separate loops for flood detection, low temperature detection and high temperature detection. In order to use all three functions, the 5800FLOOD will need to be programmed to three separate wireless zones, with each zone being assigned the appropriate Loop Number. The table below outlines the Loop Numbers for the 5800FLOOD:

The 5800FLOOD Wireless Flood and Temperature Sensor is available from Alarm Grid now. Protect your home or business from serious water damage with this versatile and effective sensor!

When most people think of a home alarm system, they picture burglary protection. They might also think of fire protection through the use of connected smoke sensors. But medical monitoring is also a big part of alarm monitoring. This can help the elderly and disabled live more independently

There is a unique challenge that comes with configuring an alarm system for use by a person who is elderly or disabled. The goal is to respect their dignity and privacy, while also ensuring that they will be properly taken care of in the event of an accident. Using a home security system is one of the best ways to achieve this delicate balance. This is largely because of the great features an alarm system offers. Some of these features include the ability for the user to request help, the ability for their loved ones to monitor them and their caretakers, and the overall ease-of-use of these systems.

The type of sensors and equipment that is used with a medical alert alarm system will be slightly different from a standard security system. Sure, you can still have regular security sensors, such as door and window contacts and motion detectors. You will probably also want to set up some life-safety sensors as well. But you will need to add some key devices so that the system achieves medical functionality as well. The key accessor in this care is often a panic switch.

A panic switch is a button that a user can press in the event of a medical emergency. This could be due to a bad fall or a stroke. These devices can certainly mean the difference between life and death in certain situations. Each minute of waiting for help reduces a person's chances of surviving. By keeping a convenient medical alert button on their person at all times, they will be able to call for help quickly in the event that something goes wrong. And when they are doing okay, they will still be able to maintain their privacy.

Many panic switches are wearable, and they can be conveniently kept on the user's person at all times. This is very helpful in the event that the accident occurs in a location where they couldn't otherwise reach the phone or call out to anyone else. Some are even water-resistant so that they can be brought into the bath or shower. Of course, any wireless panic button you use will need to communicate at a wireless frequency that is compatible with the alarm system that is being used. Some of the best personal panic switch available include the Honeywell 5802WXT-2 Dual Button Medical Alert, the Interlogix TX-4200-01-1 Wireless Personal Panic Device and the DSC PG9938 PowerG Wireless Panic Key.

Another great option is to install security cameras. These devices are used for more than just detecting criminal activity. They are also excellent for keeping an eye on your loved ones. This way, you can discretely check-in at any time and make sure they are doing alright. If they are unresponsive or in danger, you can call 911 immediately so that they get the help they need. One of the best aspects of security cameras is the fact that they can be accessed from essentially anywhere. This is possible using the mobile app for an interactive service on an Android or iOS device, including a smart phone. Two of the most popular interactive services available are Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com.

Finally, you should make sure that your loved ones and their caretakers know how to use the security system. Not knowing how to use the panel should never be an excuse for not being able to seek out help if it is needed. Make sure your loved one and their caretaker remember a valid user code that they can use to get in and out if needed. If remembering a code is a problem, you can provide them with a personal key fob for arming and disarming. These devices are great because they can often double as a panic switch. You can even assign a key fob to a guest user code to limit the access that a caretaker has to the property when they are off-duty. The Honeywell 5834-4 is a great key fob for this purpose.

Also make sure that your loved one knows how to activate their personal panic switch in the event of an emergency. There are many cases where elderly or disabled are unable to seek help because they don't know or forget how their medical alert button works. If you are afraid that your loved one might activate the button accidentally, you can ask a central monitoring station to try and call you or your loved one first before sending out automatic emergency medical dispatch. Taking just a few moments to review the proper operation of a key fob can be very important for keeping your loved one safe and sound.

Keep your loved one safe with a medical alert home security system from Alarm Grid. We are proud to help many people live more independent and fulfilling lives. If you have any questions, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us during normal business hours, which are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We also invite you to check out our monitoring page for more information about our services.

Hey DIYers! Today, we're taking look at the Honeywell 5828 Wireless Keypad. This device is great for pairing with a Honeywell LYNX Touch or Honeywell VISTA System to provide a secondary access point. The wireless keypad is great for use in larger homes or those with multiple entryways.

The 5828 Touch-Button Keypad provides a Fixed English display for the user. This means that the keypad cannot be used for deep-level programming, and it should only be used as a secondary controller. All deep-level programming will need to be done through the panel itself or through an Alphanumeric keypad. But the 5828 Keypad is still great for conveniently arming, disarming and checking the system status.

As a wireless device, the 5828 Keypad communicates at 345 MHz. It uses bi-directional communication, meaning that it can both send and receive signals. This is important for knowing the current system status and letting the main panel know whenever the system has been armed or disarmed. In order to facilitate this communication, the keypad will only be able to pair with a Honeywell System that has a proper House ID. The Honeywell LYNX Touch Systems and the Honeywell VISTA Systems both feature the House ID for this purpose. However, the 5828 cannot be used with the Honeywell Lyric Controller, as it does not have a House ID. Additionally, if the keypad is being used with a Honeywell VISTA, then the system will need to have a separate wireless receiver added to support the 345 MHz frequency. A great wireless receiver option is the 6160RF Keypad, which can also serve as a primary controller for deep level programming.

The 5828 Keypad has a 50-foot wireless range, but this range can be effectively doubled by using a Honeywell 5800RP Wireless Repeater. It uses three AA batteries for power, but a Honeywell K0991 AC Transformer can be added for continuous operation. The standard 5828 Keypad only produces chimes and tones, but Honeywell also offers the 5828V Wireless Talking Keypad. This is the exact same keypad, only with added voice functionality. It also allows the user to leave voice messages for later use. Both keypads can be wall-mounted or easily rested on a desk or table using the Honeywell 5828DM Desk Mount Kit. This desk mount kit is an excellent way to set up the keypad without having to drill any holes.

The Honeywell 5828 Keypad and Honeywell 5828V Talking Keypad are both available from Alarm Grid now. Get one today, and upgrade your Honeywell System!

Have you ever bought and set up your own furniture from IKEA? If you have, you probably felt pretty proud of your creation once it was ready to use. There's something to be said about building something yourself versus having a professional do it. And this is true for alarm systems as well.

Researchers have often dubbed this phenomenon "The IKEA Effect". The basic concept is that a consumer will place a higher value on something they assembled themselves. The time investment and labor they put into their creation provides feelings of satisfaction, competence and accomplishment that just can't be obtained through a monetary purchase alone. By rolling up your sleeves, getting your hands a little dirty and working with something hands-on, you will psychologically gain a greater appreciation for your new purchase.

Of course, it's easy to apply this ideology to our own business model. Alarm Grid has always considered itself to be a true pioneer for the DIY security industry. One of our biggest goals is to try and help our customers understand their security systems. This way, they can make their own adjustments and changes, without having to rely on someone else to do it for them. Doing this offers feelings of empowerment, and it helps a person to truly understand how their system works and the type of monitoring service they are paying for every month.

It's also important to understand that setting up your own security system in its entirety does not have to be a difficult process. It really depends on the type of system that is being used. Wireless systems are not challenging to install, and the programming options are actually very intuitive with just a little bit of assistance. Alarm Grid is happy to provide this support online or over the phone. You don't need to pay for an expensive installer to come out to your house when you can do just as good of a job on your own. Afterwards, you'll surely love your new alarm system you put in, and you will feel very proud that you actually did-it-yourself.

And if you want to make the job even easier, most new wireless panels support desk and table stands that eliminate the need for mounting. If you mount your wireless sensors with double-sided foam tape - it works great - you can set up a complete home security system using almost no tools. You might need a screwdriver to connect some wires and install some batteries, but that is it. Some great systems for this type of setup include the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the Honeywell Lyric Controller.

Alarm Grid is proud to be a true DIY security company for DIY users. We know that customers feel happier and are more empowered when they install their systems. If you haven't already joined the Alarm Grid family, now is a great time to get started. Just click the orange "Alarm Monitoring" button at the top of this page to see more information about our monitoring plans.

Hi there DIYers! It's time for another video recap. Our team uploaded a bunch of new videos over the past few days - 13 to be exact. Join your Alarm Grid pals Joe and Jorge, and learn how to get the most out of your security system. Let's take a closer look at the new videos from Alarm Grid.

Backup Battery on an Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5

Jorge talks about the backup battery that is used with the Interlogix Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Alarm Systems. A backup battery is very important for ensuring that an alarm panel remains powered on during an electrical outage. Normally, a system stays powered on through a plug-in transformer. But this is not possible during a power outage. Instead, the backup battery will supply power until the connected transformer is once again providing power. These systems both use the Interlogix 600-XTI-BAT Backup Battery.

Changing the Date or Time on an Interlogix Simon XTi or XTi-5

Jorge demonstrates how to adjust the date and time on an Interlogix Simon XTI or Simon XTi-5 Alarm System. You will most likely need to do this upon powering the system on for the first time. The date and time setting is easily accessible through the main settings menu of the system. In order to access this option, you must provide the Master Code for the system. This code is set to 1234 by default. You will first set the time, followed by the date.

How Do I Flash Upgrade my 2GIG GC3 Alarm System?

Jorge teaches users how they can perform a flash firmware update for their 2GIG GC3 Security System. Any GC3 System that was manufactured awhile ago might not be running on the latest firmware. You will need to upgrade it to the latest firmware in order to unlock the latest functions and features for the system. This includes the "smart areas" partitioning feature, a first-ever partitioning feature for wireless security systems. Alarm Grid has a webpage for information on upgrading the firmware on a GC3 System. It can be accessed here.

Monitoring for a Self-Installed Interlogix Simon XT

Jorge explains how an Interlogix Simon XT System that was self-installed can be used with alarm monitoring services. A DIY monitoring company like Alarm Grid doesn't care whether a security system was installed by a professional or a DIY user. All that matters is that the system is set up properly. Once it has been installed, it can be activated by an alarm monitoring company for monitoring service. Alarm Grid offers phone and email support to assist users with this process.

Adding an External Keypad to the Interlogix Simon XT

Joe shows users how to add an external keypad to the Interlogix Simon XT Alarm System. A keypad is great for adding a second on-site access point for controlling the alarm system. For example, a user might add a keypad near their garage door so that they can conveniently disarm their system when they come through that entrance. In the case of the Simon XT, the Interlogix Two-Way Talking Touchscreen is used. A user might prefer using that keypad over the actual panel, since the panel is push-button only.

Programming a Door Sensor to the Interlogix Simon XTi or XTi-5

Joe walks users through the process of adding a door contact to an Interlogix Simon XTi or Simon XTI-5 Alarm System. The way that a door sensor works is with a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is installed on or inside the stationary frame of the door. The magnet is installed on or inside the moving portion of the door, usually within a half-inch of the sensor. When the door is opened, the magnet will separate from the sensor and cause the sensor to activate. The sensor must be programmed with the system in order to operate.

Best Wiring Practices for the Simon XT

Joe covers the optimal wiring practices for the Simon XT Alarm System. This panel uses AC power from a plug-in transformer. The system comes included with its own 22-gauge power wire that is roughly eight feet long. The user can also use an 18-gauge or 16-gauge wire to power the system. The 18-gauge and 16-gauge wires are thicker, which allows for longer wire runs. The system comes with its own AC transformer for power. Since the system uses AC power, polarity doesn't matter. This means any color wire can connect to any terminal.

Changing the Volume on an Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5

Jorge explains how to adjust the volume level for an Interlogix Simon XTi or Simon XTi-5 Alarm System. Changing the volume will affect any system chimes and any beeps that occur when buttons on the system are pressed. This will be noticeable whenever the system armed or disarmed, when compatible sensors are activated and when buttons are pressed. The system has options for voice volume and beep volume which are adjusted separately from the same menu.

Changing the Volume on an Interlogix Simon XT

Jorge shows users how to adjust the volume on an Interlogix Simon XT Alarm System. The system has options for both voice volume and beep volume. Both of these options can be adjusted individually. The system will produce noises when the system is armed or disarmed, when compatible sensors are activated, and when buttons are pressed. You will need the Master, Installer or Dealer Code to change the volume for the Interlogix Simon XT Security Panel. The default Installer Code is 4321.

Internal Siren Overview on an Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5

Jorge covers the internal siren that is present inside the Interlogix Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Alarm Systems. The siren is set to activate whenever a burglary or fire alarm occurs to let people inside the building know about the emergency. The siren is rated at 85 dB, which is about the same volume as a car alarm. The system has a menu for adjusting the siren settings. You will need to provide the Installer or Dealer Code to access this menu. Both of these codes are set to 4321 by default.

Use Alexa to Arm & Disarm a Honeywell System

Joe explains how a Honeywell Security System can be armed with a voice command sent through an Amazon Alexa device. The system will need to be set up with the Total Connect 2.0 interactive service platform in order for this to be possible. You will need to have the Total Connect 2.0 Alexa Skill enabled from within the Alexa App. You must provide your Total Connect 2.0 account to link your system with Alexa. Please note that you cannot disarm your system using Alexa voice commands, as it would be a security risk.

Alarm.com and the Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5

Jorge talks about using Alarm.com with the Interlogix Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Alarm Systems. These systems can both connect with the Alarm.com platform as long as they have an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator installed and activated. A user can access the Alarm.com platform through the website or the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android or iOS devices to control their system. There are many great features available through ADC, and it certainly makes a user's life more convenient!

Alarm.com and the Interlogix Simon XT

Jorge explains how the Interlogix Simon XT can be used with the Alarm.com service. This system also requires that an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator is installed and activated to access the platform. The Simon XT actually uses the same cellular communication modules as the Simon XTi and XTi-5 Systems for this purpose. A user can access Alarm.com at any time to arm or disarm their system, check current system status, control Z-Wave smart home devices, view the live feed for Alarm.com Security Cameras and more.

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the Honeywell CELL-EXTST. This an antenna adapter cable designed for use with the Honeywell Lyric Panel. This adapter allows you to connect a cellular antenna with the the Lyric Cell Radio to boost its signal strength and communicate more reliably.

Normally, we recommend using cellular amplifiers to boost the strength of a cellular module. These tend to work more reliably than antennas, and they allow you to boost the cellular strength throughout the building. But if a user plans on using an antenna, they will need to make sure it is strong enough to achieve the reliable connection they want. Normally, the fixed-length Honeywell CELL-ANTU will work just fine for this role. This antenna offers a 1dB gain of signal strength, and it has a 10-foot cable that cannot be extended. The Honeywell CELL-ANTU already comes with the Honeywell CELL-EXTST Adapter for integrating with the Lyric Controller. But if a user requires a stronger antenna, they will need to use the Honeywell CELL-EXTST Adapter to complete the connection.

Sometimes, a larger antenna can make all the difference for ensuring reliable communication with the Honeywell AlarmNet Servers. This is especially true for those who live in rural areas that may be located very far away from a cellular tower. But since the Lyric Cellular Modules use a unique TS9 plug, they need the CELL-EXTST to work with the stronger outdoor antennas. For ultimate signal boosting, we recommend using the Honeywell CELL-EXTST with the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB AlarmNet Weatherproof Antenna. This will provide up to an additional 3dB in signal strength. You will also need a COAX cable of the desired length to complete the connection. The proper extenders will allow the CELL-ANT3DB to reach a wire length of between 25 and 50 feet for flexible wiring options. But please note that a longer wire run will decrease the signal gain that is provided. By using the outdoor CELL-ANT3DB, your Lyric will certainly enjoy a better connection. This will give you great peace of mind in knowing that your home is monitored!

The Honeywell CELL-EXTST is what makes the connection possible, and it can now be purchased individually from Alarm Grid. Get one for your system, and achieve the reliable connectivity you need! For more information on Honeywell Cellular Antennas, please review this helpful document.

Hi DIYers! Did you know that Alarm Grid offers certified refurbished versions of some of the most popular Honeywell Security Systems and accessories? Our refurbished offerings work just as well as any new equipment. Going this route can be a great option for cutting overall system costs.

All of our certified refurbished equipment is sent to us directly from the manufacturer, Honeywell. It starts when the previous owner of an eligible piece of Honeywell equipment sends the product back to Honeywell for one reason or another. Honeywell will clean up the equipment, restore any defects and basically ensure that it works good as new. With Honeywell's strict oversight, the refurbished equipment is guaranteed to function exactly the same as any new equipment. We then purchase this equipment from Honeywell. Any customer who buys this equipment will have it professionally sent to them from the Alarm Grid headquarters.

In the highly unlikely event that the refurbished equipment does not function as it should, Alarm Grid offers a warranty protection in conjunction with the original warranty Honeywell put on the product. The original warranty will depend upon the manufacture date of the equipment. We will honor any remaining warranty from Honeywell that is left on the equipment, or we will offer our own warranty of up to 90 days, whichever is longer. While we are very confident in all of the refurbished equipment we offer, we fully understand that some customers will want some protective measures put in place before buying this type of equipment.

At this time, our refurbished lineup is restricted to four Honeywell products. However, we may decide to expand this lineup sometime in the future. Our team will make sure to let you know if any new refurbished products become available. The following products are currently available as certified refurbished versions:

• Certified Refurbished Honeywell Lyric Security System
• Certified Refurbished Honeywell LKP500 Lyric Wireless Keypad
• Certified Refurbished Honeywell VISTA-21iP Control Panel
• Certified Refurbished Honeywell 5800C2W Wired to Wireless Converter

If you have any questions about our refurbished products, please do not hesitate to reach out to us! You may email us at any time at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us during normal business hours, which are 9am to 8pm EST Monday thru Friday.

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the Honeywell PAL-T Hardwired Door and Window Contact. Although we often get very excited about the idea of using wireless contacts, we recognize that some people still want hardwired contacts. The PAL-T is one of the most versatile options we offer.

In terms of operation the Honeywell PAL-T is extremely simple. The device consists of a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is wired-in directly with the panel, and it is installed on the stationary frame of a door or window. The magnet is then installed on the moving portion of the door or window within 1.125" of the sensor. As a surface mount sensor, the PAL-T and its magnet will be visible from the outside of the door or window. When the door or window is opened, the magnet will separate from the sensor. This will cause a reed switch inside the sensor to trigger. Once this happens, the sensor will send an alert to the alarm system to let it know that the door or window has been opened. The system will then respond based on the programming settings for that zone.

As a hardwired sensor, the PAL-T is most commonly used with hardwired systems. However, it can also be used with wireless systems that have available zone terminals for hardwired sensors. Additionally, a user can convert the hardwired connection into a wireless transmission through the use of a wired to wireless converter, like the Honeywell 5800C2W. This works by connecting the PAL-T with the wired to wireless converter. The converter will then send a wireless signal to the alarm panel on the behalf of any connected sensors. This will allow the wired sensors to be used with the system as though they were wireless sensors. Doing this is a great way to bring over multiple existing wired contacts and set them up with a newer wireless alarm panel.

What's great about the Honeywell PAL-T is its small size that allows it to be used in a number of different security applications. It will fit on almost any door or window and provide effective monitoring of that opening. The vast array of programming options make it extremely versatile. Depending on the system, you might just have PAL-T instruct the system to chime whenever it is activated. A common option is to have it set as an entry/exit door. If an entry/exit sensor is activated while the system is armed, the user will need to disarm the system within a set entry delay period, or else an alarm will occur. Another possibility is to make a door or window truly off-limits and set it as a 24-hour zone. This will cause an immediate alarm if the sensor is activated, regardless of the system's current state. Setting a zone for this purpose can be great for fire doors or emergency door or windows.

And of course, one of the best aspects of the Honeywell PAL-T is that it is one of the cheapest sensors we offer. If you are fine using hardwired sensors, then this is a very affordable way to monitoring virtually any door or window. You can purchase the Honeywell PAL-T on the Alarm Grid website right now. Stock up on a few, and provide complete protection for your home or business!