Alarm Grid Video Recap: October 2nd through October 5th

Hi DIYers! Our team is back with another video recap, this time for October 2nd through October 5th. It's a rather short video recap this time, but we have some fantastic videos from our support technicians Joe and Jorge. Let's check out what the video team has been up to this week.

Using a Phone Line with an Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5 Alarm System

Joe shows users how to use a phone line with an Interlogix Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Alarm Systems. The physical phone line input for the POTS (plain old telephone service) connection is found on the inside of these panels. An RJ31X is needed to complete the wiring process. This module comes included with both of these systems. Please note that Alarm Grid strongly recommends using cellular monitoring service over a POTS connection. This will require a compatible cellular communicator.

Enabling the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Built-in Glass Break Sensor

Jorge explains how to enable the built-in glass break detector for a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. This system includes an integrated sensor that actively listens for the sound of breaking glass. We recommend setting this sensor to the lowest possible setting for avoiding any false alarms. The sensor can be enabled from the Installer Settings menu. The user will need to provide the Installer Code (1111) to access these settings. There will be a box to check for the user to enable the sensor. The user will then configure the settings for the sensor.

Can I Use Wired Contacts on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2?

Joe talks about how a user can use normally closed hardwired contacts with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The panel has inputs on its circuit board for supporting two hardwired contacts. If the user wants to set up additional contacts with their system, they will need to use a compatible wired to wireless converter. The hardwired contacts will connect directly with the converter, and the converter will send a wireless signal to the system on the behalf of these hardwired sensors. A great converter to use for this application is the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-S.

Checking the Firmware Version of a Simon XT

Jorge demonstrates how to check the firmware version for an Interlogix Simon XT System. It can be very important to check the firmware for this system, as it will need to be running version 1.3 or higher in order to support an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator. If the system is running a lower firmware version, then it will not be able to support the module, and it will not be able to connect with Alarm.com. The firmware can be checked right from the main menu of the system, and no codes are needed to see the revision number.

Discussion of Batteries in Sensors

Jorge talks about the batteries that are used in various wireless security sensors. A wireless sensor relies on battery power for being able to communicate properly with an alarm system. This is what allows them to stay running without having any wires connected with a wall outlet. The type of battery that a sensor will use generally depends on the size of the sensor and the type of power it needs. Two of the most popular batteries for security sensors are CR123A Camera Batteries and CR2032 Coin Cell Batteries. We recommend using lithium batteries for a maximum lifespan.

Honeywell 5800 Sensors and the Interlogix Simon XT?

Joe discusses how Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors can be used with the Interlogix Simon XT if a wireless translator is used. A wireless translator will take the 345 MHz signal from the Honeywell 5800 Series Sensor and translate it to 319.5 MHz. This will allow the sensor to be used with the Simon XT. Another option is to just use 319.5 MHz sensors with the system. This includes all Interlogix/GE Sensors all Qolsys Sensors, including the encrypted S-Line Sensors.

Managing Home Automation Devices in Total Connect 2.0 from a Tablet

Jorge explains how to manage smart home automation Z-Wave devices in the Total Connect 2.0 service by using a tablet. The user will first need to login to their Total Connect account. The user should then access the Automation Menu to obtain a complete view of all their programmed smart home devices. The user will then be able to control these devices as needed and set them up with any smart scenes. Please note that the user will need to have automation services included in their alarm monitoring plan in order to do this.