October 2020 Archives

We have some new offerings from 2GIG that have just been added to our website. These include the 2GIG STZ-1 Z-Wave Plus 700-Series Thermostat, the 2GIG CO8 Wireless Carbon Monoxide Sensor, and the 2GIG CO8e Encrypted Wireless Carbon Monoxide Sensor. All three are available as of now!

Starting with the 2GIG STZ-1, this is a smart thermostat that uses the latest Z-Wave Plus 700-Series technology. This represents the next generation of Z-Wave Smart Home Automation after the 500-Series of Z-Wave Plus. The 2GIG STZ-1 is actually one of the very first 700-Series Z-Wave Plus devices we have ever seen. You may also see this protocol referred to as Z-Wave Plus V2. Although we haven't encountered many 700-Series Z-Wave controllers or hubs quite yet, we are sure that they will begin to pop up before too long. This new generation of Z-Wave will provide even better battery life and wireless range capabilities than ever before.

For the time being, you will have no trouble using the 2GIG STZ-1 with Z-Wave Plus controllers like the 2GIG GC3e, 2GIG GC3, 2GIG GC2e, Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and Honeywell Home Tuxedo. However, 2GIG has stated that the STZ-1 Thermostat is not compatible with their older 2GIG Go!Control GC2, which only has a classic Z-Wave controller. Therefore, you may want to refrain from getting the 2GIG STZ-1 if your automation network is still centered around a classic Z-Wave hub. But the good news is that you can take advantage of advanced features like SmartStart QR Code Pairing and the S2 Security Protocol when using it with the latest Z-Wave Plus hubs.

The 2GIG STZ-1 is also no slouch when it comes to controlling an HVAC system. The thermostat supports 3-Stage Heating and 2-Stage Cooling, humidity and fan control, and the ability to be used without a "C" wire connection and rely solely on battery power. Like any Z-Wave thermostat, you can include the 2GIG STZ-1 with smart scenes so that it automatically begins heating or cooling your home or office on a set schedule. This is great for keeping energy costs to a minimum, while also ensuring that you stay comfortable!

Meanwhile, the 2GIG CO8 and the 2GIG CO8e serve as the latest carbon monoxide sensors from Nortek Control. The 2GIG CO8 joins the always popular 2GIG 345 MHz Sensor Lineup, while the 2GIG CO8e is part of the 2GIG eSeries Lineup of encrypted sensors. The 2GIG CO8 is a non-encrypted wireless sensor, and it is compatible with a wider selection of alarm systems, including all of the 2GIG Panels, the 345 MHz Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and the Honeywell Lyric on Firmware Version MR3 or higher. The 2GIG CO8e is only compatible with the 2GIG GC2e and GC3e, but it uses encryption for better wireless security and protection.

Whether you go with the CO8 or CO8e, you will be providing valuable carbon monoxide detection for your home or office. Carbon monoxide (CO) gas is odorless and tasteless, and it kills hundreds of people every year in the United States. Most CO-related deaths occur in the winter months when heaters are more frequently used. With the winter quickly approaching us, now is a great time to get started using carbon monoxide sensors. You will have peace of mind in knowing that you and others around you will be alerted in case a CO gas situation occurs. And with central station monitoring service, help will be automatically sent to the location in the event of a carbon monoxide alarm. Remember to check out our monitoring page if you are interested in learning more about alarm monitoring.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG STZ-1 Thermostat, 2GIG CO8 Carbon Monoxide Sensor, or 2GIG CO8e Encrypted Carbon Monoxide Sensor, please email our support team at support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

I don't usually get the opportunity to talk about my personal life very often in this blog. But today, I wanted to briefly share my personal experience registering an alarm system in Pompano Beach, FL. Specifically, I want to focus on the sensible alarm registration policy in the city.

Earlier this year, I had the fortune of purchasing my first home, located just half a mile from the Alarm Grid headquarters. Along with this purchase came a brand-new Honeywell Lyric Security System and monitoring service from Alarm Grid. Maybe someday I'll show the inner workings of my home security setup. But for now, I just want to talk about the positive experience I have had in registering my system with the city of Pompano Beach, FL. This is truly an example of a local alarm authority maintaining a very reasonable policy.

As the operator of a monitored security system in Pompano Beach, FL, I am required by the local jurisdiction to register my system annually with the city. The annual registration fee is a mere $25, and it covers me until December 31st of the same year. This struck me as very reasonable, and I do not believe that it would deter anyone in my community from protecting their home with a monitored system. But the aspect that left me quite impressed was the professional and sincere follow-up that I received after registering.

Upon receipt of my payment, the city of Pompano Beach, FL sent me a welcome letter to verify registration. It included a decal that I can display outside to verify that my system is registered with the city. The welcome letter itself was also very informative in its own right. This message specifically mentioned the importance of regularly testing a security system, complete with a reminder to place the system on test mode with the central station first. The letter went on to present a long list of common causes of false alarms. It even made specific mention of motion detection sensors, which, as a security professional, I am very well aware of how they can cause problems if not installed properly.

The letter ended on a rather serious note, as it mentioned that less than 2% of the alarms that the local police and fire departments respond to are actual emergencies. It urged users to do their part to reduce the false alarm rate by receiving proper training from the alarm provider. Luckily for me, my monitoring provider is also my employer, so I have received plenty of training in preventing false alarms. But I can easily see a typical homeowner who isn't experienced in using a system making a mistake and potentially causing a false alarm.

Taking a step back, I honestly think that my city has a very sensible methodology in handling security systems. There isn't an extreme "verified response" policy, and the local authorities will respond to any alarm event. I believe that this is important for members of the community to feel safe in their homes and to place trust in those who protect and serve. But at the same time, my city acknowledges that false alarms are a legitimate problem, and system users are urged to do their part to prevent them. I think that is very reasonable, as we must all do our part to not abuse the system and waste the time and resources of our local authorities.

Out of curiosity, I looked up the false alarm fining policies for Pompano Beach, FL. It turns out that the first three (3) false alarm events within one (1) calendar year, provided that the system is registered, will result in warnings. The fourth (4th) false alarm within a year will result in a $25 fine, the fifth (5th) will result in a $50 fine, and the sixth (6th) and all subsequent false alarms within the year will each result in a $100 fine. Again, I am fine with this policy, as causing more than three (3) false alarms with a year is pretty foolish, and by that point, a user probably should be fined if they have not corrected the problem.

I might take a closer look at the letter and its fine details another time. But I will end this post by saying that I am proud of my city for taking a very reasonable approach to what is a well- known issue. Alarm Grid does its part to stop false alarms by working to train its customers in operating their security systems responsibly. We strongly advise checking this guide to false alarm prevention, as it provides a plethora of tips to ensure that you're not the one increasing the false alarm rate.

You can also email us if you have any questions or concerns about using your system. We are always happy to talk about false alarm prevention so that you can feel confident your day-to-day security system interactions. Monitored Alarm Grid customers should email support@alarmgrid.com with any questions they might have. This email is also good if you are interested in starting new monitoring service to protect your home or business. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you prevent false alarms!

Nearly every alarm panel is capable of receiving firmware updates to unlock new features and improve system performance. Our tip today is to always make sure that your panel is running the latest firmware version. This will ensure the smoothest operation of your system and prevent issues.

Alarm manufacturers periodically release new firmware versions for their systems. These firmware updates serve many purposes. New sensors and system accessories may require that the panel is on a high enough firmware in order for them to work properly. An example of this is when Firmware Update MR9 for the Honeywell Lyric allowed the panel to support the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator.

Other firmware updates provide new features for an alarm panel, such as when Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Firmware Update 2.4.0 introduced Smart Start support for the IQ2. And of course, other firmware updates just quietly improve system performance and provide general stability fixes. No matter the reason, updating the firmware for your system to the latest version is almost always a good idea for getting the most out of your system.

As a general rule, Honeywell Alarm Panels that are monitored and connected with AlarmNet can have firmware updates pushed down for free if needed. Alarm.com Panels can also have remote firmware updates pushed down, but there is usually a small fee for doing so. Keep in mind that some panels, such as the Honeywell VISTA Systems, must have updates performed locally using specific pieces of equipment.

Today, we're going to take a brief look at some different systems and discuss how firmware updates are applied. We will also provide some relevant notes for further help. We won't be able to cover every system out there, but we can certainly cover some of the more popular ones. Keep in mind that this information is current as of October 2020, so if you check this post in the future, the information may no longer be current.

System	Update Method	Notes
Honeywell Lyric Controller	Updates can be pushed down from AlarmNet. You can also update locally using this method.	Current firmware version is 01.09.07755.491, also known as MR9. More information on updating can be found on our Honeywell Lyric Firmware Update Page.
Qolsys IQ Panel 2 & IQ Panel 2 Plus	Push down updates from Alarm.com, or update locally using a Patch Tag.	Current firmware version is 2.5.3. More information on updating is available on our Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus Firmware Update Page.
2GIG GC3e	Push down updates from Alarm.com, or update locally using USB drive.	Current firmware version is V3.2.5.6732. More information on updating is available on our 2GIG GC3e Firmware Update Page.
2GIG GC3	Push down updates from Alarm.com, or update locally using USB drive.	Current firmware version is V3.2.4.6725. More information on updating is available on our 2GIG GC3 Firmware Update Page.
2GIG GC2e	Push down updates from Alarm.com, or update locally using either the updater cable or easy updater tool.	Current firmware version is V1.22. More information on updating is available on our 2GIG GC2e Firmware Update Page.
2GIG GC2	Push down updates from Alarm.com, or update locally using either the updater cable or easy updater tool.	Current firmware version is V1.19.3. More information on updating is available on our 2GIG GC2 Firmware Update Page.
Honeywell VISTA-15P	Must update locally by replacing the PROM Chip.	Honeywell VISTA-15P PROM Chips can be purchased here. Must be Version 9.12 or higher to support Total Connect 2.0. Information on how to replace a PROM Chip can be found here.
Honeywell VISTA-20P	Must update locally by replacing the PROM Chip.	Honeywell VISTA-20P PROM Chips can be purchased here. Must be Version 9.12 or higher to support Total Connect 2.0. Information on how to replace a PROM Chip can be found here.
Honeywell VISTA-21iP	Must update locally by replacing the PROM Chip.	Honeywell VISTA-21iP PROM Chips can be purchased here. Must be Version 9.12 or higher to support Total Connect 2.0. Information on how to replace a PROM Chip can be found here.
Honeywell LYNX Touch Panels	Must update locally using Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Firmware Updater Tool.	The Honeywell L5200, L5210, and L7000 can all use the Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Updater Tool to download the latest firmware. More info on using the updater tool can be found in this FAQ. The latest firmware for the aforementioned panels is 9.0213. Older LYNX Touch Systems cannot be updated and must be replaced.

If you are a monitored Alarm Grid customer looking for help updating your system's firmware, you can always email us at support@alarmgrid.com for assistance. Monitored customers can contact us to request that a firmware update be pushed down, or to learn more about applying a specific firmware update. That email is also good if you are not yet monitored by Alarm Grid, but you are interested in signing-up for service. Keep in mind that we check new email during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is thrilled to announce that our Honeywell Lyric LTE Upgrade Kits now feature the Honeywell LCP500-24B 24-Hour Backup Battery. You can pick between the LYRICUPGRADE-A with AT&T LTE and the LYRICUPGRADE-V with Verizon LTE. Rest easy in knowing that your Lyric will stay connected!

Our Lyric LTE Upgrade Kits represent the ultimate option for anyone who wants to be sure that their monitored security system will always stay online and connected. These systems come with built-in WIFI and added communication modules that provide cellular backup. Even if your home or business experiences an internet outage, the cellular backup will keep your system reliably monitored. Cellular connectivity almost never goes down, so you will have peace of mind in knowing that you are consistently protected. This is crucial for receiving the most reliable and dependable alarm monitoring service available!

But these aren't just any cellular communicators. These are LTE cellular communicators that will receive network support for many years to come, possibly for even decades. As older 3G and CDMA networks are soon being shut down in an event commonly referred to as the 3G Sunset, users are being urged to upgrade to LTE as soon as possible. The term LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution", and cellular companies like AT&T and Verizon have promised to support their LTE networks well into the very distant future. These networks are expected to remain running as important backups to the 5G networks, which you have likely heard about. With an LTE communicator like those included in these kits, you won't have to worry about making any communication upgrade to your Lyric any time in the foreseeable future.

The new change to these LTE upgrade kits is that they now include a 24-hour backup battery instead of the prior 4-hour backup battery. Your Lyric Security System will rely on this backup battery to stay running when the electricity is out and AC power is unavailable. The backup battery represents the last line of defense for a security system in staying powered on and connected for monitoring service in these crucial moments. Being able to keep your Lyric Alarm Panel running and connected for 24 hours versus 4 hours will give you much more confidence and peace of mind when a sudden power outage occurs. And even during an extended outage, your home or business will be protected. This is the perfect complement to LTE cellular connectivity, which works perfectly when your internet router is down and unable to provide WIFI service for your system.

Of course, these kits wouldn't be complete without the state-of-the-art Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. This security panel includes a full-color 7-inch touchscreen display, support for up to 128 panel zones, the ability to interface with Honeywell SiX Series Sensors that use military-grade 128-bit AES encryption, built-in Z-Wave capability for smart home devices, and full compatibility with Apple HomeKit, the robust and powerful automation platform for iOS users.

Both the Honeywell LYRICUPGRADE-A and the Honeywell LYRICUPGRADE-V come with a brand-new Honeywell Lyric Alarm System with plug-in transformer, an LTE communicator, and a fully prepared Honeywell LT-Cable for conveniently providing system power. Whether you choose the LYRICUPGRADE-A with AT&T LTE or the LYRICUPGRADE-V with Verizon LTE will not make much of a difference. This decision will have no impact on your monthly monitoring costs, and we have found both cellular networks to work great when adequate signal coverage is obtained. Just go with the network that provides the most reliable and consistent coverage in your area. If you aren't sure, coverage maps are widely available. Remember that this decision has nothing to do with your personal phone. You can have an AT&T Phone and get a Verizon Communicator for your system, or vice-versa.

Also keep in mind that you will need a cellular monitoring plan to take advantage of all the cellular communication capabilities of your new Honeywell Lyric LTE Security System Kit. Examples of compatible monitoring plans include the Gold and Platinum Plans from Alarm Grid. We advise checking out our monitoring page for more information about signing-up. And if you have any questions, you can always email us at support@alarmgrid.com for extra assistance. We check our email during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you get started with your new Lyric System!

Update: These kits no longer include the 24-hour battery. They once again include the standard Lyric 4-hour battery. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

It's time for another video recap, this time covering October 7th thru 9th. Jarrett and I managed to put together quite a few videos with the help of our video team. We hope that you find them helpful in setting up your security system. Let's check out the latest Alarm Grid videos!

Resetting the Honeywell Home Tuxedo Keypad

I show you how to reset the Honeywell Home Tuxedo Keypad for a Honeywell VISTA System. There are three (3) types of resets that can be performed on a Tuxedo. These include a Tuxedo Keypad Refresh Power Cycle, a Tuxedo Keypad Factory Default, and a Z-Wave Factory Default. Make sure that you choose the proper type of reset based on what goal you must accomplish. Then it's as simple as following the steps to complete the reset.

Adding an External Keypad to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jarrett shows you how to add an external keypad to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Security System. The most popular keypad for the IQ Panel 2 is the Qolsys IQ Remote. This is a touchscreen keypad that essentially mimics the screen of the IQ Panel 2. The IQ Remote can be used nicely for security functions, such as arming, disarming, and bypassing sensors. It can also be used for controlling smart home automation devices that are programmed with the IQ2.

Adding and Deleting Zones Using the Tuxedo Keypad

I show you how you can use Console Mode on a Honeywell Home Tuxedo to add and delete zones for a Honeywell VISTA Alarm System. Console Mode will have the Tuxedo emulate an Alphanumeric Keypad, such as a Honeywell 6160. You can use Console Mode to access *56 zone programming and perform the same programming process that you would on a regular keypad. The Tuxedo Keypad will reboot once you exit programming to save the changes.

Find MAC & CRC for Tuxedo

I show you how to find the MAC and CRC codes for a Honeywell Home Tuxedo Keypad. The Tuxedo has MAC and CRC codes because it connects to the internet. The reason why the Tuxedo connects to the internet is to relay automation information to and from Total Connect 2.0. You will need to provide the MAC and CRC to your monitoring company when they go to set up the Tuxedo with the Total Connect 2.0 platform and the Resideo AlarmNet Servers.

Running Power to a Honeywell L7000

Jarrett shows you how to provide power to the Honeywell L7000 Security System. Like most wireless systems, the L7000 receives primary power from a plug-in transformer. You can use traditional 2-conductor wiring for this process. But many users find that it is easier to use a prepared cable, such as the Honeywell LT-Cable. By using an LT-Cable, you will not need to strip any wires, and all you will need is a screwdriver for connecting at the transformer and panel.

Running Power to a 2GIG GC3 or GC3e

Jarrett shows you how to provide power to a 2GIG GC3 or 2GIG GC3e Security System. As the GC3 and GC3e are wireless all-in-one panels, we recommend connecting the backup battery before the transformer when powering on the system. You must open up the panel to connect the backup battery. The transformer can connect to either the positive (+) and negative (-) power terminals on the terminal block or the barrel port on the back of the panel.

According to the September/October 2020 Security Market Index (SMI) released by the Security Industry Association (SIA), confidence is returning to the industry following the global health pandemic. Surveyed SIA members currently feel more positive about the industry than in recent months.

Selected SIA members were asked how they would rate current business conditions in the security industry. The options of "Excellent", "Good", "Average", "Fair", and "Poor" were available. The idea was to get a good gauge of the current industry outlook for security professionals. The table below outlines the submitted responses for this question.

According to these results, nearly two-thirds of surveyed security professionals view current industry conditions as "Excellent" or "Good". And perhaps equally as encouraging is the fact that none of the responding SIA members reported viewing the current industry conditions as "Poor". Needless to say, this paints a very positive current outlook for the security industry.

Back in April, we discussed how the DIY security industry was remaining strong in the face of the pandemic. We cited how well companies like ours were able to weather the storm and adapt to the changing times. At Alarm Grid, we provide all of our support online and over the phone. This makes our company best-suited for meeting the unique needs of our customers in an era of social distancing. Now it appears that the rest of the industry is catching up.

Alarm Grid is happy to see that many security professionals feel as confident in the industry as we do. We know that our company remains in a position to thrive, even as others face potential uncertainty in these unique times. Providing top-quality alarm monitoring service is as important as ever, and we will continue doing our part to meet the needs of all our clients. This includes our long-time customers, as well as those who are just now getting started.

If you are interested in joining the Alarm Grid family as a monitored customer, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will be happy to work with you in determining the best security system and monitoring plan for your needs. Remember that we check email during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

While many alarm panels have been outfitted with LTE cellular communicators to accommodate the 3G and CDMA Sunset, one system that is being left behind is the Honeywell L5100. Luckily, we have two (2) great panel upgrade options if you want to continue receiving cellular alarm monitoring.

Without getting too in-depth, the 3G and CDMA Sunset will leave the Honeywell L5100 with no functional cellular communicator option. This is because any Honeywell GSMVLP5-4G units that are currently activated for monitoring service will stop working once the associated AT&T 4G Network is shut down. If you are still using a Honeywell L5100 with a GSMVLP5-4G for cellular monitoring, then it is crucial that you upgrade to a new system as soon as possible. This is the only way that you can continue receiving cellular monitoring service. Remember, cellular connectivity represents the most reliable communication path available for an alarm system. We strongly urge you to not wait until the end of the 3G/CDMA Sunset.

Unless you have some specific knowledge of security systems, then you may have trouble determining which alarm panel you should get to replace your Honeywell L5100. That is where we are able to help. We have two (2) recommended systems if you are needing to upgrade. Both of these system options will allow you to continue using the majority of your existing sensors, and they will provide some great new features that you can take advantage of. We will briefly discuss both of these options so that you can make an informed decision.

Honeywell Lyric

If you want to stick within the Honeywell banner, then the Lyric is a great option. It has two (2) excellent LTE cellular communicator options in the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator and the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator, and it can readily support all of the one-way Honeywell 5800 Sensors used with the L5100. This system is preferred by users who want to continue using Total Connect 2.0, as well as any Honeywell IP Cameras. The makes the Lyric the go-to option if you are currently using security cameras with your L5100. The Lyric is also preferred if you are a regular iOS user, and you want to integrate your security system with your Apple HomeKit Network.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz

For L5100 users who don't necessarily feel married to Total Connect 2.0, and who also don't really care about HomeKit compatibility, jumping ship to a different manufacturer is an option. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz is hard to ignore. It can also support your existing one-way Honeywell 5800 Wireless Sensors right out of the box. You will need to make the switch from Total Connect 2.0 to Alarm.com, but this transition is fairly seamless if you don't have cameras set up. And while the IQ2+ might not have HomeKit, it does offer its own unique benefits like Z-Wave Plus functionality, automatic Bluetooth disarming, and partitioning support. You won't find any of those features on the Lyric. Just remember to choose the 345 MHz IQ2+ in the silver and white box to continue using your old Honeywell 5800 Sensors.

We're Here to Help!

There isn't a truly one-size-fits-all solution for existing Honeywell L5100 users. For some, the Lyric is the best option. But other users can get more mileage out of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz. Although we gave you some general guidelines and considerations above, you may still want some more advice on which move to make. Our security system planners are happy to help you determine which system is right for you.

Upgrading early is the best way to ensure that you do not experience any interruptions in your monitoring service. If you are a Honeywell L5100 user looking to plan for the future, feel free to email our team at support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm ET and respond back at our earliest opportunity. We look forward to helping you plan out the long-term security solution for your home or business!

If you follow this blog regularly, then you probably already know about the significance of the 3G and CDMA Sunset. Now, Alarm.com is taking their own steps to demonstrate the urgency by listing a "Trouble" status condition next to all 3G and CDMA accounts on the alarm dealer end.

Alarm dealers like Alarm Grid who provide service with Alarm.com will notice a "Trouble" status condition next to all customer accounts who are still connected using an AT&T 3G or a Verizon CDMA Communicator. The purpose of this trouble condition is so that dealers can properly notify end users who need to upgrade to LTE to avoid a loss of service. Cellular service providers are expected to shut down older 3G and CDMA Networks in 2022.

When a cellular network is shut down, all cellular devices designed to connect with the network will stop working. This includes cellular communicators for security systems. The 3G and CDMA shutdown will inevitably affect countless security systems across the country. Anyone still using a system with a 3G, 4G, or CDMA Communicator is heavily urged to upgrade to LTE as soon as possible.

While this news does not impact end users in any manner (including those still using 3G or CDMA), it does go to show how important this issue is. We have been doing our part by informing users about the importance of upgrading. Recently, our marketing team even sent out emails to customers still lagging behind to try and get the word out. We have also been regularly blogging about the subject.

Fortunately, most users with a 3G or CDMA Communicator can simply swap out their existing communicator for a new LTE model. The term LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution", and an LTE communicator will keep your system online well into the very distant future. You may have heard about the rise of 5G cellular communication and think that LTE will soon be outdated as well. But the truth is that LTE will serve as a valuable backup to 5G. Both AT&T and Verizon have promised to keep their LTE networks online for many, many years, possibly decades.

If you need assistance finding an LTE communicator for your security system, then we are more than happy to help. We urge you to not wait until the last minute, as many users will be trying to upgrade at the same time. Upgrading early helps prevent a logjam when it comes to be crunch time later on, and it greatly reduces the burden on us. Please, contact us with your panel information, and we will assist you in making a seamless transition.

The best way to contact us regarding LTE upgrades is to email support@alarmgrid.com. If you are currently monitored with Alarm Grid, then we will be able to pull up your panel info. But if you are looking to switch to Alarm Grid, then please provide us with a picture of your alarm panel. This includes a picture of the inner circuit board if you have a hardwired panel. Remember, we check email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are happy to announce that some new products are available on our site. The Linear GD00Z-7 Garage Door Opener and the Alarm.com ADC-SWM150 Smart Water Valve and Meter can both be purchased from Alarm Grid. Both devices use Z-Wave Plus technology for communicating with a compatible hub.

Starting with the Linear GD00Z-7, this new Z-Wave Plus unit replaces the older Linear GD00Z-5 model previously offered on our site. This new unit connects with a compatible garage door motor to provide smart control for the connected garage door. You can open and close your overhead garage door using an interactive service platform like Alarm.com, and you can also include the device with smart scenes for automation operation.

Unlike previous models, the new Linear GD00Z-7 can utilize the S2 Security Protocol when it is paired with a Z-Wave Plus controller that supports the protocol. This is only available on the most advanced Z-Wave controllers, including the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus once the Z-Wave Firmware is upgraded to Version 6.81.03. It is also backwards compatible with most other Z-Wave controllers, where it will simply use the older S0 Protocol. However, it cannot be used with the wireless Honeywell Panels. Any Lyric or LYNX Touch owner should still get the Honeywell GDCK, which is also sold by Alarm Grid.

As for the Alarm.com ADC-SWM150, it is a complete smart water valve and meter that can be used for both controlling water flow and monitoring water usage for energy monitoring and consumption purposes. Once installed, the unit detects leaks of any size in the building, and you can access it remotely to shut off the main water supply in the event of a leak.

If you have ever experienced a flood or serious water leak, then you know how costly of a situation it can become. Being able to shut off the water flow remotely can really come in handy when time is of the essence. Many users will pair the ADC-SWM150 with one or more flood detection sensors and build smart scenes to have the water shut off automatically once a sensor is triggered.

The difference between the ADC-SWM150 and the previously released ADC-SWV100 is that the new ADC-SWM150 also includes an advanced water meter for tracking water usage and flow. If a leak occurs, whether it be from a burst pipe or a dripping faucet, you can see the information on the mater. Also included with the ADC-SWM150 is the ability to use the S2 Security Protocol when paired with a compatible Z-Wave Plus controller.

Both the Linear GD00Z-7 and the Alarm.com ADC-SWM150 are available now from the Alarm Grid website. If you have any questions about either of these products, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We check email during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is back with another video recap! We've got some great new videos to help you get the very most out of your security system. As always, we hope that you find the new videos to be informative and helpful. Let's check out the newest tutorial videos from the Alarm Grid team!

Install Honeywell LTE-XA or LTE-XV On VISTA-15P, VISTA-20P, VISTA-21iP

I show you how to add a Honeywell LTE-XA or Honeywell LTE-XV to a Honeywell VISTA P-Series Alarm Panel. The LTE-XA and LTE-XV are cellular communicators used by VISTA Alarm Panels to communicate with the AlarmNet servers. Adding a communicator to a VISTA System is necessary for getting it monitored and set up with the Total Connect 2.0 platform for controlling the system remotely. The communicator will use a 4-wire connection that is made at the panel's ECP bus.

Troubleshooting No Signal issue on Resideo LTE-XA or LTE-XV

In a follow up to the previous video, I show you the general troubleshooting steps to perform when there is no signal on a Honeywell LTE-XA or LTE-XV. As these are cellular modules, an adequate cell signal is required for them to work properly. You might get a lack of cell signal due to the communicator being used too far from a cell tower, a SIM card that needs to be re-seated, or due to a SIM card that is not yet activated.

Checking the ECP and RIS Address On a Tuxedo

I show you how to check the ECP Address and the RIS Address on a Honeywell Home Tuxedo Keypad. Both the ECP Address and the RIS Address are found in the same menu. The Enhanced Console Protocol (ECP) Address tells the panel where to find the Tuxedo as a keypad controller. Setting the ECP is sometimes referred to as addressing the keypad. The Remote Interactive Service (RIS) Address tells Total Connect 2.0 and AlarmNet where to find the Tuxedo as an automation controller.

Enrolling the DSC PG9914 Motion Sensor to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

I show you how to pair the DSC PG9914 Motion Sensor with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Security System. The DSC PG9914 is a PowerG Sensor, and it can be used with any version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The sensor offers a coverage area of up to 39 feet, pet immunity of up to 85 pounds, a wireless communication range of up to 2,000 feet away from the IQ Panel 2 Plus, and 128-bit AES encryption.

Upgrading a Honeywell Lyric to Use LTE

I show you how to upgrade the Honeywell Lyric Controller to support an LTE communicator. In order to do this, you will need a compatible LTE cellular communicator. The compatible modules include the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator and the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator. You will need to get a monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity, such as an Alarm Grid Gold or Platinum Level Plan. This is necessary for activating the communicator for monitoring service.