Wireless Encrypted Security Systems Posts

One thing we have noticed about the 2GIG GC3e is that it seems to be prone to erroneous Supervision Trouble conditions. This has left some users confused as to why their system zones are not working properly. But luckily, we have some tips to prevent this from happening to you and your GC3e.

Before we give our three (3) tips to follow, let's make sure we're all on the same page by explaining what Supervision Trouble normally refers to. Supervision Trouble occurs when a system does not receive a periodic "check-in" signal from an enrolled wireless sensor. This is usually either the result of the sensor not being able to send out its check-in signal, or the check-in signal not reaching the intended destination of the alarm panel. Some reasons why the sensor might not send out the signal include the sensor being powered down due to a dead or removed battery, or the sensor being physically destroyed. Some reasons why the the sensor's wireless check-in signal might not reach the alarm panel could include the sensor being moved to a new location in the building, or new obstacles, such as thick walls or large metal structures, being added inside the building. Regardless of the cause, you need to make it so that the sensor's check-in signals successfully reach the panel. Once you do that, you can clear the trouble condition. For GC3e users, you can learn how to clear the trouble condition by reviewing this FAQ.

But for the 2GIG GC3e, we have seen Supervision Trouble conditions occur, even when the sensor is powered on, successfully enrolled, and in clear communication range of the alarm panel. The issue seems to be particularly prevalent for the encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors that were built specifically for new 2GIG Alarm Systems. The good news is that our research has found that these sensor consistently and reliably work as intended, without causing any Supervision Trouble, as long as you follow some basic principles when using and setting up these devices. In addition to making sure that your sensor is powered on and communicating successfully with your 2GIG GC3e Panel, here are three (3) quick and easy tips to keep in mind whenever you are enrolling or configuring your 2GIG eSeries Sensors with your GC3e.

1) Reprogram from scratch when replacing an old sensor. If you have a sensor enrolled with your 2GIG GC3e, and you need to replace it with a new one, then you should remember to clear or delete the zone first, and then reprogram the entire zone from scratch, this time using the new sensor. Many users will need to do this if an old sensor becomes lost or damaged. While it might seem easier to just go in and remove the enrolled Serial Number for the zone, and then auto-learn the new one, this process has been known to cause Supervision Troubles. It's true that a sensor is identified based on its Serial Number, but you can't just delete the old Serial Number, add the new one, and expect everything to work perfectly. This is even the case if you are deleting a sensor and replacing it with one of the exact same model, for the exact same Sensor Type. Instead, take the extra time, delete the zone entirely, and then program it from scratch. For more information on the process, please review this page.

2) Reprogram from scratch when moving a sensor to a new partition. The same rule applies if you are moving an existing sensor to a new partition. This may be something to keep in mind if you are setting up system partitions for the first time, or if you want to change which zones users on a certain partition are able to control. If you are unaware, the 2GIG GC3e supports four (4) partitions, which are referred to as "Smart Areas", and the feature must be enabled at Q69 of System Configuration. More information on Smart Areas and how to set them up can be found here. Regardless, many users think that they can simply change the Partition Assignment within a zone, while keeping all other zone settings the same, and expect it to then function without a hitch. Unfortunately, it isn't that easy, as not completing this process properly may result in Supervision Trouble. Again, you must clear out the zone, and reprogram it from scratch. The only difference is that this time, you must assign the correct partition number, instead of the one it used originally. Alarm Grid invites you to check out this FAQ on switching GC3e Partition Assignments.

3) Always use the correct Equipment Code for 2GIG eSeries Sensors. The last tip we have involves the use of proper Equipment Codes. Before the rise of encryption, the Equipment Code setting was largely symbolic, and as long as an appropriate "equivalent" equipment code was used when programming a sensor, no issues would likely occur. But since the encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors use advanced "two-way" communication, using an incorrect Equipment Code can cause unwanted behavior, including Supervision Trouble. This one is a bit easier to fix, as you can often just replace the improper Equipment Code with the correct one in zone programming. If that doesn't work, then you can take the next step of trying to reprogram the entire zone from scratch. But you should be able to clear the trouble condition as normal once the Equipment Code is correct, based on the eSeries Sensor you are using.

The table below shows the Equipment Codes for 2GIG eSeries Sensors:

If you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer needing help with your 2GIG GC3e, or if you are interested in starting new service with Alarm Grid, please email our technical support team and security system planners at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here to help you from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are thrilled to announce that new Alarm Grid System Kits featuring the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS System are now available! We have twelve (12) kits in total, split into four (4) main categories, with options available for users in most situations. They're ready for your home or business!

UPDATE:

As of Firmware Version 3.591.92.0, the Honeywell Home PRO Series panels all support local programming through the keypad. You can read full details about this exciting firmware update here.

If you aren't familiar with the PROA7PLUS, then we strongly recommend reviewing this introduction post and buying guide, as it will really help you get acquainted with the latest Resideo Security System. For this post, we mainly want to focus on the new kits, so that is what we will do.

Potential buyers should keep in mind that the PROA7PLUS does NOT support local end user programming at this time, though we have received word from Resideo that the feature is coming. And while we do not have a firm answer on Apple HomeKit compatibility, we suspect that HomeKit support will be coming later down the pipeline. Remember that the Honeywell Lyric and its system kits DO support local end user programming and Apple HomeKit, so that can be a really good alternative if you don't want to wait for Resideo to get their system ready.

With that out of the way, here are the kits! Like we said earlier, there are four (4) distinct categories, with three (3) system kit options in each category. Basically, in each category, you are choosing an IP-only option OR a dual-path IP & LTE cellular option with either AT&T OR Verizon. Find the category that makes the most sense for you, and then choose - IP-only, Dual-Path AT&T & IP, or Dual-Path Verizon & IP.

Remember that if you go dual-path, you will need a monitoring plan with cellular connectivity, such as an Alarm Grid Gold or Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full). We always recommend the use of cellular backup, as it is the only way to keep your system connected for monitoring service in the event of an internet outage. But whether you ultimately go with IP-only or dual-path is up to you. As a reference, the cellular communicator options for the PROA7PLUS are the PROLTE-A (AT&T LTE) and the PROLTE-V (Verizon LTE). And make sure that your monitoring plan includes access to Total Connect 2.0 if you want to control the PROA7PLUS System remotely from your phone or a web browser!

The first category we have is our 3-1 PROA7PLUS Kits. These include the PROA7PLUS System, three (3) PROSIXMINI2 Door and Window Sensors, one (1) PROSIXPIR Motion Sensor, and a Honeywell LT-Cable. These are great for smaller homes and apartments where only a few sensors are needed.

• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS031 - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 3-1 Base Kit: System, 3 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS031A - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 3-1 AT&T Kit: System, 3 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, Communicator, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS031V - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 3-1 Verizon Kit: System, 3 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, Communicator, LT-Cable

Next, we have our 10-1 PROA7PLUS Kits. These include the PROA7PLUS System, ten (10) PROSIXMINI2 Door and Window Sensors, one (1) PROSIXPIR Motion Sensor, and a Honeywell LT-Cable. These are great for larger homes and businesses where many sensors are needed.

• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS101 - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 10-1 Base Kit: System, 10 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS101A - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 10-1 AT&T Kit: System, 10 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, Communicator, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS101V - PROA7PLUS Encrypted 10-1 Verizon Kit: System, 10 D/W Contacts, 1 Motion, Communicator, LT-Cable

Then, we have our Wired Upgrade PROA7PLUS Kits. These include the PROA7PLUS System, a PROSIXC2W Wired to Wireless Converter, and two (2) Honeywell LT-Cables. These are great if you are upgrading to the PROA7PLUS from a wired alarm system, and you want to keep using your existing hardwired sensors.

• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSW0TAKE - PROA7PLUS Wired Upgrade Base Kit: System, Converter Module, Two (2) LT-Cables
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSW0TAKEA - PROA7PLUS Wired Upgrade AT&T Kit: System, Converter Module, Communicator, Two (2) LT-Cables
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSW0TAKEV - PROA7PLUS Wired Upgrade Verizon Kit: System, Converter Module, Communicator, Two (2) LT-Cables

Last, we have our Wireless Upgrade PROA7PLUS Kits. These include the PROA7PLUS System, a PROTAKEOVER Legacy RF Receiver Module, an a Honeywell LT-Cable. These are great if you are upgrading to the PROA7PLUS from a wireless alarm system, and you want to keep using your existing compatible wireless sensors.

• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSWLTAKE - PROA7PLUS Wireless Upgrade Base Kit: System, Legacy RF Receiver, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSWLTAKEA - PROA7PLUS Wireless Upgrade AT&T Kit: System, Legacy RF Receiver, Communicator, LT-Cable
• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUSWLTAKEV - PROA7PLUS Wireless Upgrade Verizon Kit: System, Legacy RF Receiver, Communicator, LT-Cable

Like always, if you have any questions about compatibility, or if you are interested in signing-up for new monitoring service, then please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We are here to help you from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you get started with your new PROA7PLUS Alarm Panel!

We have heard reports lately of RF supervision troubles on 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Systems, particularly for zones set up with encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors. Upon further testing, we have learned that eSeries Zones configured with incorrect Equipment Codes can cause supervision trouble.

Equipment Codes are somewhat of a unique quirk for 2GIG Security Systems. This numeric code identifies the model number of the wireless sensor that is being used. It should not be confused with the sensor's Serial Number, which is unique for each individual sensor. You set the Equipment Code when programming a new zone. Alarm Grid has helpful guides available for programming a GC2e zone and programming a GC3e zone.

The following table contains the current list of eSeries Equipment Codes:

Before the rise of 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, the Equipment Code setting on a 2GIG System was largely seen as a formality. The general practice was to find the corresponding sensor if available, but generally not worry about it very much if you couldn't match it exactly. Some third-party sensors do not have their own Equipment Codes, and an "equivalent" is usually selected instead. For example, the Honeywell 5800MINI and the VERSA-2GIG can both just use the Equipment Code for "Existing Door/Window Contact", rather than finding an exact match.

But for the 2GIG eSeries Sensors, the Equipment Code selection is actually very important. Failing to set the exact corresponding equipment code can result in the system displaying an RF supervision loss trouble condition for the associated zone. This trouble is typically used to identify that the system has lost communication with the sensor, due to either the sensor powering down from a dead or missing battery, or the sensor being taken out of wireless range. But it seems that the GC2e and GC3e cannot properly supervise a 2GIG eSeries Sensor with an improper Equipment Code. More information can be found in this FAQ.

Missing Equipment Codes are more common for third-party sensors not produced by 2GIG. For a 2GIG Sensor, you should almost always have a direct Equipment Code selection available. And the 2GIG eSeries Sensors are still quite new, so 2GIG made sure to put in Equipment Codes specifically for each of these sensors. However, you may be unable to find an Equipment Code for a brand-new eSeries Sensor if your 2GIG System isn't on the latest firmware version. Adding support for new sensors is a major part of most 2GIG Firmware Updates. You can view our GC2e Firmware Page here, and our GC3e Firmware Page here.

If you need any help programming a GC2e or GC3e wireless zone, then make sure to check out the programming FAQs we linked earlier. Alarm Grid monitored customers can also receive additional free support by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. This is also a great email to use if you are interested in signing up for new monitoring service. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid has a short but sweet video recap for you! Last week's recap was skipped to spread the cheer about our headquarters reopening, but we're here now! Unfortunately, we only have three (3) videos to share. Also, our usual team wasn't quite ready yet, so I had to make more appearances.

This week's videos are centered around the 2GIG GC3e Security System. This is a wireless all-in-one panel with support for encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors, as well as non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors. The system has a beautiful 7-inch touchscreen, built-in WIFI, partitioning support, and an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller. We hope these videos help you feel more comfortable in setting up your own 2GIG GC3e System for your home or business!

Pairing a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to pair a Z-Wave device with the 2GIG GC3e. The GC3e has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, which allows you to pair Z-Wave Plus and classic Z-Wave devices with the system. Common Z-Wave devices include lights, door locks, thermostats, and more. Programmed Z-Wave devices can be controlled from the panel and remotely from Alarm.com if the system is monitored. Most Z-Wave devices are excluded, or cleared, from the network before being added.

Programming a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add a key fob to a 2GIG GC3e. A key fob is a small handheld device that you can use to control your security system from a distance. Most key fobs will allow you to conveniently arm and disarm your system and operate programmed relay-triggered devices. Many key fobs also have the ability to set off panic alarms in distress situations. The 2GIG GC3e supports various 345 MHz wireless key fobs.

Adding or Changing User Codes on a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add, change, and delete user codes on a 2GIG GC3e. A user code is a sequence of numbers that you enter into a system to verify that you are an authorized user. The 2GIG GC3e supports up to 100 user codes. It is advised that each regular user has their own code. Each new code on the GC3e must be enabled for the use with system after it has been added.

For anyone still look for a super last-minute holiday gift idea, we would like to recommend one of our Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Kits. To make the deal more enticing, we have just permanently lowered the pricing on ALL of these kits. A fantastic system is now even more affordable!

If you don't know about the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, then we strongly recommend checking out our recent 2019 Holiday Buying Guide for the system. That guide will tell you everything you need to know about the system and how you can get the absolute most out of it. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is currently our favorite alarm panel at Alarm Grid, and the easiest way to get started with the system is with one of our complete system kits. Once you have a system kit, you can then easily and conveniently get started with our alarm monitoring service.

Before we start listing off pricing, it is important to understand what comes included in all of our Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Security System Kits. Each kit features a brand-new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System, either ten (10) or three (3) DSC PG9303 Door/Window Contact Sensors, and one (1) DSC PG9914 Motion Detection Sensor. This is absolutely everything you need for a basic monitoring setup. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus even includes a transformer, backup battery, power cable, and table stand, so you will be all good to go right out of the box!

The reason why it is important that the sensors included in these kits are PowerG Sensors is because they offer some of the best wireless range and overall security in the entire industry. PowerG Sensors can communicate with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System from up to 2,000 feet away in an open air environment. These sensors utilize military-grade 128-bit AES encryption in all of their wireless communication. This makes them virtually impossible for others to hack or takeover wirelessly. And with the frequency signal hopping of PowerG, these sensors are all but immune to RF jamming attacks that could stop other sensors from working correctly.

When it comes to our Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG System Kits, there are 12 total options to choose from. This comes from the fact that there are three (3) different versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, with each version having a different legacy daughtercard (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz). You must also decide whether you want a 3-1 kit (3 PowerG Contacts & 1 PowerG Motion) or a 10-1 kit (10 PowerG Contacts & 1 PowerG Motion). And you have your choice as to whether you want the system's internal LTE cellular communicator to connect with the AT&T LTE Network or the Verizon LTE Network. Doing some simple math (3 x 2 x 2 = 12) shows how we arrive at 12 possible system kits.

The reason why the PowerG Kits were able to be reduced in price is because the DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contact was also reduced in price. This sensor is a staple in all of our Qolsys PowerG Kits, and it is now more affordable than ever. If you are just looking for a single DSC PG9303 to add to an existing system, you can now get one for the low price of $19.99. This can make an awesome stocking stuffer for anyone with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System looking to monitor an additional door, window, or even a cabinet.

Now that we have all the explaining out of the way, let's take a look at the brand-new reduced pricing for all 12 of our Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Kits!

If you have any questions about these kits, or any of the other products on our site, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Our support hours for responding to emails run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Also remember our holiday hours. We will be closed Tuesday, December 24th, Wednesday, December 25th, and Wednesday January 1st. Also keep in mind that our office will be closing early at 6pm ET on Tuesday December 31st. Have a great weekend and upcoming holiday season, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a look at the new Interlogix Encrypted Sensors. There are three (3) sensors in this TX+ lineup. There is the Interlogix TX+DWS Door/Window Contact, the Interlogix TX+PIR Pet Immune Motion Sensor, and the Interlogix TX+2WAYFOB Key Fob. All are available now!

First, we would like to give some background on these Interlogix TX+ Sensors. The wireless communication range for these sensors is listed at 500 feet when used in open air. They operate at an encrypted 319.5 MHz frequency, similar to the Qolsys S-Line Sensors. You can technically use these Interlogix TX+ Sensors with any 319.5 MHz system. This includes the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus w/ 319.5 MHz Daughtercard and all of the Wireless Interlogix Panels.

However, these sensors will only utilize encrypted communication when paired with the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System. If you don't know about this system, we actually started carrying it last month. Among its new features is the ability to support encrypted sensors. At the time, there weren't any encrypted sensors out for the system yet. Well now there are! When paired with any other compatible system, they will operate as non-encrypted wireless sensors.

The sensors themselves are straightforward and simple. The Interlogix TX+DWS Contact has a thin profile, and it will work great on nearly any door, window or cabinet. The Interlogix TX+PIR Motion Sensor offers a coverage area of 40 feet by 40 feet, as well as pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 80 pounds. Lastly, the Interlogix TX+2WAYFOB is a four (4) button key fob with buttons for arming, disarming, automation, and triggering an auxiliary panic.

We believe these sensors are a must-have for anyone with an Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System. Now you can take full advantage of the encrypted communication that the system offers! If you have any questions or if you want to learn more about these sensors, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as soon as we can. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that the first 2GIG Encrypted Sensors are available on our site. The lineup includes two contacts, a motion, a key fob, and a glass break. Anyone with a 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e System will absolutely want to make use of these powerful new sensors.

The new 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors represent perhaps the biggest selling point of the new 2GIG Alarm Systems. These sensors are designed exclusively for use with the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e. When enrolled, they will make use of encryption in all their wireless communication. This makes these sensors virtually impervious to any wireless hacking or takeover attempts. This is the best way to ensure that your system is always protected.

It is important to note that you cannot bring these sensors over to the older 2GIG Go!Control GC2 and 2GIG GC3 Systems and expect them to work as non-encrypted wireless sensors. These new sensors can only be utilized as encrypted devices on the GC2e and GC3e Systems. However, you can bring over the older 2GIG Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Sensors and use them with the GC2e and GC3e as standard 345 MHz sensors.

With that out of the way, let's start checking out the new encrypted sensors!

2GIG DW10e

The 2GIG DW10e is a surface-mounted door and window contact sensor. It offers a super thin profile, with dimensions of 2.59"L x 1.03"W x 0.49"D. This makes the sensor practically invisible when mounted flat on a white surface. There are two programmable loops for the DW10e. One loop will have the sensor operate as a standard contact with a reed switch. The other loop allows you to connect a single Normally Closed (NC) hardwired contact to the DW10e and have it communicate with the panel wirelessly.

2GIG DW20e

The 2GIG DW20e is a recessed door and window contact that is perfect for users who want to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing installation. The sensor and its accompanying magnet need to be inserted into holes that are drilled into the door or window and its frame. The only way to see the sensor after installation is to look at the door or window frame from the side when the door or window is already opened. The DW20e has an impressive 450-foot wireless range when used with direct line of sight.

2GIG PIR1e

The 2GIG PIR1e is a wireless PIR motion detection sensor. The device works by looking for the changes in IR energy that occur with movement. It uses a quad-element PIR sensor for superb reliability. The trustworthy and reliable motion detecting sensor offers a coverage area of 30' by 50'. This is perfect for a home or small business. There are three different sensitivity settings you can choose from. When used on low sensitivity, the device will provide pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 55 pounds.

2GIG GB1e

The 2GIG GB1e is a wireless glass break sensor. The device will effectively monitor plate, tempered, and sealed insulating glass that measures between 1/8 and 1/4 of an inch thick. The sensor listens for both the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking the glass and the higher-pitched "shattering" of the glass itself. This dual-detection process helps to ensure that false alarms do not occur. It is great for monitoring windows for forced entry, but it can also be used with protective glass casings that display products.

2GIG KEY2e

The 2GIG KEY2e is a wireless 4-button key fob that gives you a convenient way to control your GC2e or GC3e while you are on-site. There are dedicated buttons for Arming Away, Arming Stay, Disarming, and activating a relay device. You can also program a dual-button press of the top two buttons (Arm Away and Disarm) to trigger an instant panic. Any button must be held down for a full 2 seconds for the command to go through. This helps to prevent accidental inputs. It has a wireless range of 350 feet.

If you have questions about any of these new 2GIG eSeries Sensors or the 2GIG GC2e and GC3e, or if you just want to learn more about our monitoring service, please reach out to us! We are here to make sure you get the perfect equipment for your needs. The best way to contact us is always to email support@alarmgrid.com. If you want to speak by phone, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are thrilled to announce that the 2GIG GC3e is now available for purchase from Alarm Grid. Just a couple weeks ago we blogged about the new 2GIG GC2e System. Well now the other new wireless encrypted system from 2GIG is available as well. This is truly an exciting day!

The 2GIG GC3e Wireless Encrypted Security System is an upgrade over the existing 2GIG GC3 System in virtually every conceivable aspect. If you are already used to the original GC3, then you will have no problem transitioning to the GC3e. The system features a similar design, and it provides a familiar layout and user interface (UI) to help new users feel comfortable. But with its refreshed look, the GC3e fits in even better with most decor. End users are sure to love the sleeker design of this advanced new panel. Plus the 7" capacitive touchscreen looks absolutely beautiful. You can even set up a slideshow feature so that you and your guests can enjoy some pleasant pictures!

Of course, the GC3e is more than just a pretty face. It also provides support for the upcoming 2GIG Encrypted Sensors. Along with the GC2e, this panel will be the first-ever release from 2GIG with support for these devices. Wireless encryption is huge, as it makes these sensors virtually impossible for others to hack or takeover. This is crucial for anyone who wants to achieve the highest level of security possible for their home or business. Although the 2GIG Encrypted Sensor Lineup is still in development, you can currently use the existing 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors with the GC3e. That's right, the system is backwards compatible! Up to 100 wireless zones can be added to the 2GIG GC3e.

The 2GIG Smart Areas feature has also returned for the GC3e. This allows users to set up four (4) distinct partitions. If you aren't familiar with partitioning, it refers to the ability to section-off an alarm system into multiple sections. You can control each section individually, without having to bypass a large number of zones. For example, you might arm one partition, while leaving the rest of the system disabled so that people can continue to move throughout those areas. 2GIG refers to these partitions as "Smart Areas", and each one can have its own access codes and zones. This feature is perfect for use in offices, multi-family homes, guest homes, and rental properties. And don't worry, you can still bypass individual zones within each partition when needed.

Z-Wave Plus functionality comes built right into the 2GIG GC3e. Its 500-Series Chipset lets you take full advantage of all of the great features that come with Z-Wave Plus. This includes extended wireless range and enhanced battery life with Z-Wave Plus devices. You can still use classic Z-Wave devices with the system as well. Just keep in mind that you will need to use Z-Wave Plus peripherals if you want maximum battery life and range. And by getting the system connected with Alarm.com, you will be able to control your smart home devices remotely from your Android or iOS device. You can also create smart scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically based on a schedule or with certain system events.

In order to access Alarm.com and receive alarm monitoring service, you will need two things. The first is an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator. You can choose from an AT&T LTE Communicator (coming soon!) and a Verizon LTE Communicator (available now). These modules are super easy to install, and they will provide your GC3e with the most reliable monitoring service available. Making things even better is that the system already comes with a built-in WIFI card. Once you add a cellular communicator, the GC3e will become dual-path ready. All you will need then is a monitoring plan. You will need a Gold or Platinum Level Plan from Alarm Grid to unlock the system's full potential. More information can be found on our alarm monitoring page.

In addition to its 100 wireless zones, the 2GIG GC3e supports two (2) on-board wired zones, up to 32 keyfob devices, up to eight (8) keypads (choose from 2GIG SP1, 2GIG SP2, and 2GIG PAD1-345), and up to 100 unique user codes. The GC3e receives power from a 1.7A 14VDC transformer that comes included. However, you will still need to provide your own wiring. We recommend using a Honeywell LT-Cable. Firmware updates for the GC3e can be pushed down over-the-air (OTA) from Alarm.com or applied locally using a USB drive.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG GC3e, you can always email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the perfect alarm system for your home or business!

Hi DIYers! A few months ago, we blogged about the upcoming encrypted systems from 2GIG. Well the first one is here, as you can now buy the 2GIG GC2e Wireless Encrypted Security System from the Alarm Grid website! We are certainly very excited about this new panel, and we're sure you are too.

The 2GIG GC2e is essentially an upgraded version of the older 2GIG Go!Control GC2. The original GC2 has served as an effective and reliable alarm system for many years, and users who are just now getting into the market now have a great new option available to them. The GC2e offers a user interface (UI) and overall design that original GC2 users will be familiar and comfortable with. This makes it super easy to transition over to the new GC2e System for your home or business.

The main highlight of the GC2e is the ability to support the upcoming lineup for encrypted sensors from 2GIG. These will be the first-ever encrypted wireless sensors from 2GIG, and users will appreciate the added protection that these devices provide. Encrypted sensors are virtually impossible to defeat or takeover wirelessly. This is very important in a world where savvy intruders are able to use advanced technology to hack and take control of non-encrypted sensors.

With a GC2e System and encrypted sensors, you can put these concerns to rest. Please note that the 2GIG Encrypted Sensors are not yet available for purchase. However, we expect them to be available very soon. In the meantime, you can still use the GC2e System with the existing 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Sensors. The GC2e is backwards compatible to support these devices. Just be aware that the system will only utilize encryption when it is paired with the upcoming encrypted 2GIG Sensors.

But the GC2e offers more upgrades than just support for encrypted sensors. It features an updated design that looks cleaner and more modern than the original GC2 System. Users will also appreciate the larger touchscreen, which now measures 5" across. By retaining the existing UI, existing GC2 users will know exactly what they start using the GC2e. If you ever owned the GC2 System in the past and are now looking to get back into the market, then the GC2e is a great choice.

The system also has some internal upgrades as well. The system now supports Z-Wave Plus technology with its 500-Series Chipset. This means that all Z-Wave Plus devices paired with the system will be able to utilize their maximum wireless range and battery life. You can also use classic Z-Wave devices with the system without issue. Just remember that you will only get the extended range and increased battery life with Z-Wave Plus devices.

Anyone who purchases the GC2e will want to make sure they get an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator for the system as well. This will provide the system with fast and reliable connectivity across a cellular network. The GC2e System actually supports the same existing cellular communicators used with the older GC2 System. We strongly recommend choosing an LTE cellular communicator for the system. Cellular service providers have stated that they plan to support their LTE networks well into the very distant future. With an LTE communicator, you can keep your GC2e monitored for many years to come.

We recommend using one of the following cellular communicators with the GC2e:

• 2GIG LTEA-A-GC2 (AT&T LTE)
• 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC2 (Verizon LTE)

A cellular communicator is also necessary for getting the system connected with Alarm.com. This is an interactive monitoring and automation platform that you can access from a web browser or remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App. The service will allow you to arm and disarm your system, check current system status, and control your Z-Wave smart home devices from virtually anywhere in the world. Please be aware that you will also need a Gold or Platinum Level Plan from Alarm Grid to access ADC. More information can be found here.

As far as some basic specifications go, the system offers support for up to 60 wireless zones, a single hardwired zone, eight (8) remote control keyfobs, a total of four (4) keypads (2GIG TS1 and/or 2GIG PAD1-345), a wired siren output, and up to 64 user codes. The system is powered using a 1.7A 14VDC transformer that comes included. No wiring is included to connect the transformer to the panel. But you can get a Honeywell LT-Cable for this task. The system receives firmware updates over-the-air (OTA) from Alarm.com, or you can apply updates locally using a compatible updater tool.

We also know that many customers are eagerly awaiting the release of the 2GIG GC3e as well. This will be the successor to the current 2GIG GC3, and it will also provide support for the upcoming encrypted sensor lineup. Unfortunately, the 2GIG GC3e is not yet available for purchase. But we believe that it will be arriving before the end of summer. So please keep checking out blog for further updates.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG GC2e, you can send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you and answering all your questions about this exciting new system!