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A great way to build out your Honeywell Lyric is with Honeywell 5800 Sensors. These are simple, 345 MHz wireless sensors that you can easily enroll with the system for security, life-safety, and environmental monitoring. They are perfect for expanding your system and making it more robust.

Honeywell lyric controller encrypted wireless security system

When you want to pair a Honeywell 5800 Sensor with the Lyric, the process is very straightforward. Put the Lyric in its auto-enrollment mode by choosing Security > Tools > enter Installer Code (default 4112) > Program > Zones > Add New > Serial Number. Make sure the RF Type on the right-hand side is set to 5800. Then activate the sensor either by faulting it or triggering its cover tamper switch. The Lyric should beep to confirm that it received a signal transmission. Then activate the sensor a second time to have the Lyric display the Serial Number. The third activation will confirm the Serial Number and return you to the screen where you can configure the zone settings.


Programming the zone settings for the sensor is actually quite simple. Depending on how you enrolled the sensor, you may need to adjust the Loop Number. This is almost always the case if you enrolled the sensor by activating its tamper switch. Refer to the instruction manual for the 5800 Sensor to determine which Loop Number to use.

The two (2) Zone Descriptors and the Device Type serve as the name for the sensor. You should choose a name that will help you identify the sensor, e.g. "Front Bedroom Motion Sensor", "South Hallway Door", etc. The Response Type determines how the system responds when the sensor is faulted. See our list of Lyric Response Types for more info.

Alarm Report should be set to Yes if you want the system to report out through AlarmNet to a Central Station if the zone causes an alarm on the system. That is an essential component of alarm monitoring services. Chime is optional, and it has the panel emit any one of several available sounds when the zone is faulted. Supervision tells the panel to look for an RF check-in signal from the sensor periodically to ensure that it is online. Click Save in the bottom-right after you finish adjusting the settings.


Keep in mind that only uni-directional (one-way) sensors from the Honeywell 5800 Series can be used with the Lyric. This leaves out bi-directional devices like the Honeywell 5800WAVE Siren, the Honeywell 5828 Keypad, and the Honeywell 5800RL Relay Module, so make sure you do not buy those for the Lyric. But you still have a lot of excellent sensors and security devices to choose from.

Below is a list of the Honeywell 5800 Sensors that you can use with the Honeywell Lyric:

Sensor Name
Notes
Honeywell 5800MINI
Honeywell 5800mini interior wireless door and window sensor
Door/Window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800PIR-RES
Honeywell 5800pir res wireless pet immune motion detector close up
PIR motion sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Coverage Area: 35' x 40'
Honeywell 5816
Honeywell 5816 wireless door window sensor
Door and window sensor.
Loop 1 = Terminal Block for NC Contact
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Honeywell 5811
Honeywell 5811 wireless wafer thin door and window sensor
Door and window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800C2W
Honeywell 5800c2w hardwire to wireless system 9 zone conversion module
9-zone wired to wireless converter. Allows hardwired sensors to communicate with the Lyric as wireless devices. All zones use Loop 1 and a unique Serial Number ID.
Honeywell 5800CO
Honeywell 5800co wireless carbon monoxide detector
Carbon monoxide sensor.
Loop 1 = CO Detection
Loop 2 = End of Sensor Life (separate programming only required on TURBO and other V-Plex panels)
Honeywell 5800COMBO
Honeywell 5800combo smoke heat and co detector
Combination, smoke, heat, CO, and low-temperature sensor. Uses up to five (5) zones on the Lyric Panel. Has two (2) Serial Numbers for enrollment purposes.
Loop 1, SN 1 = Smoke/Heat Detection
Loop 2, SN 1 = Smoke/Heat Maintenance
Loop 3, SN 1 = Low Temperature Detection
Loop 1, SN 2 = CO Detection
Loop 2, SN 2 = End of Sensor Life (separate programming required only on TURBO and other V-Plex panels)
Honeywell 5800FLOOD
Honeywell 5800flood wireless flood and temperature sensor
Flood and temperature sensor.
Loop 1 = Low Temperature Detection
Loop 2 = High Temperature Detection
Loop 3 = Flood Detection
Honeywell 5800MICRA
Honeywell 5800micra wireless recessed window contact
Recessed window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800PIR
Honeywell 5800pir exterior of wireless motion detector
PIR motion sensor.
Loop 1 = Low Sensitivity Motion.
Loop 2 = High Sensitivity Motion.
Loop 3 = Low Temperature Detection
Coverage Area: 35' x 40'
Honeywell 5800PIR-COM
Honeywell 5800pir com exterior of wireless long range motion det
Commercial PIR motion sensor.
Loop 1 = Low Sensitivity Motion
Loop 2 = High Sensitivity Motion
Loop 3 = Low Temperature Detection
Coverage Area: 60' x 80'
Honeywell 5800PIR-OD
Honeywell 5800pir od wireless outdoor motion detector exterior
Outdoor PIR motion sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2
Outdoor PIR motion sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800RP
Honeywell 5800rp wireless repeater
Wireless repeater for Honeywell 5800 Sensors. Does not require enrollment, but can be assigned a single zone for RF supervision, low-battery, AC loss, and RF jam detection. This is done using Serial Number 1 with Loop 1, with DIP Switch 2 set in the OFF position. Can also use up to four (4) separate zones for supervision when DIP Switch 2 is set to ON. This is required for UL installations.
Honeywell 5800RPS
Honeywell 5800rps wireless recessed door and window plunger sens
Recessed door/window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5800SS1
Honeywell 5800ss1 exterior of wireless shock sensor
Shock sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5802MN
Honeywell 5802 wireless panic button
Medical alert button. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5802MN2
Honeywell 5802mn2 wireless dual button medical alert
Medical alert button. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5802WXT
Honeywell 5802wxt wireless panic button
Panic button. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5802WXT-2
Honeywell 5802wxt 2 wireless dual button medical alert
Panic button. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5806W3
Honeywell 5806w3 wireless smoke detector
Smoke detector. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5808W3
Honeywell 5808w3 wireless smoke and heat detector
Smoke and heat detector.
Loop 1 = Smoke & Heat Detection
Loop 3 = Low Temperature Detection
Honeywell 5809
Honeywell 5809 wireless heat detector
Fixed temperature and rate-of-rise heat detector. Uses Loop 1. Alarm occurs when the temperature exceeds 135 degrees Fahrenheit, or when the temperature rises more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit per minute.
Honeywell 5809FXT
Honeywell 5809 wireless heat detector
Fixed temperature heat detector. Uses Loop 1. Alarm occurs when the temperature exceeds 135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Honeywell 5809SS
Honeywell 5809ss wireless fixed temperature slash ror heat detec
Fixed temperature and rate-of-rise heat detector. Uses Loop 1. Alarm occurs at 135 degrees Fahrenheit or when the temperature rises more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit per minute.
Honeywell 5814
Honeywell 5814 wireless small door sensor and window sensor
Door and window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5815
Honeywell 5815 white wireless aesthetic door sensor and window s
Door and window sensor.
Loop 1 = Terminal Block for NC Contact
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Honeywell 5816MN
Honeywell 5816mn wireless mini door sensor and window sensor
Door and window sensor.
Loop 1 = Terminal Block for NC Contact
Loop 2 = Reed Switches
Honeywell 5816OD
Honeywell 5816od wireless outdoor door and window sensor top
Outdoor door and window sensor.
Loop 1 = Terminal Block for NC Contact
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Honeywell 5817
Honeywell 5817 wireless three zone sensor
Three (3) zone door and window sensor & transmitter.
Loop 1 = NC or NO (DIP Switch Selectable) unsupervised. It does not use an End of Line Resistor (EOLR)
Loop 2, 3 = NC Only. Both are unsupervised with no EOLR used
Honeywell 5817CBXT
Honeywell 5817cb wireless commercial sensor
Three (3) zone commercial transmitter.
Loop 1 = Two (2) Terminals; Primary Loop supervised by 470k Ohm (yellow, purple, yellow, gold) EOLR. Resistor must ALWAYS be installed, even if Loop 1 is not programmed. If Loop 1 is used as a burglary zone, then Loop 4 must be programmed as a separate zone for Cover Tamper protection.
Loop 2 = NC Reed Switch
Loop 3 = Two (2) Terminals; NC Loop unsupervised, no EOLR required
Honeywell 5817XT
Honeywell 5817xt three zone universal transmitter
Three (3) zone door and window sensor & transmitter.
Loop 1 = NC or NO (DIP Switch Selectable) unsupervised with no EOLR required
Loop 2, 3 = Two (2) Terminal Blocks, NC Only
Honeywell 5818MNL
Honeywell 5818mnl wireless recessed door sensor and window senso
Recessed door and window sensor. Uses Loop 1. Not suitable for use in metal doors
Honeywell 5819
Honeywell 5819 wireless shock processor and sensor
Three (3) zone shock processor.
Loop 1 = NC for Inertia Style External Shock Sensor. This input provides a suitable fast loop response of from 1ms to 20ms, based on dip switch setting
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Loop 3 = NC for Wired Contact, unsupervised with no EOLR required
Honeywell 5819S
Honeywell 5819s wireless shock sensor and transmitter
Shock sensor and contact sensor.
Loop 1 = Built-in Inertia Style Shock Sensor
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Loop 3 = NC for Wired Contact
Honeywell 5819WHS
Honeywell 5819whs wireless transmitter with integrated shock sen
Three (3) zone shock processor.
Loop 1 = NC, Built-in Inertia Style Shock Sensor
Loop 2 = Reed Switch
Loop 3 = NC for Wired Contact
Honeywell 5820L
Honeywell 5820l super slim wireless door and window sensor
Slimline door and window sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5822T
Honeywell 5822t wireless garage tilt sensor
Garage tilt sensor.
Loop 1 = NC for Wired Contact, unsupervised, no EOLR used
Loop 3 = Tilt Switch
Honeywell 5834-2
Honeywell 5834 2 wireless 2 button security key fob
Two (2) button key fob. Dual-button inputs allowed. Uses three (3) loops total, for a possible three (3) inputs. Can only be used with the Lyric in Low-Security Mode (Green LED)
Honeywell 5834-4
Honeywell 5834 4 wireless 4 button security key fob for honeywell security systems
Four (4) button key fob. Dual-button inputs allowed. Uses two (2) Serial Numbers, which both use Loops 1, 2, 3, 4. Up to eight (8) inputs possible. Can only be used with the Lyric in Low-Security Mode (Green LED)
Honeywell 5834-4EN
Honeywell 5834 4en wireless enhanced 4 button security key fob
Four (4) button key fob. Dual-button inputs allowed. Uses two (2) Serial Numbers, which both use Loops 1, 2, 3, 4. Up to eight (8) inputs possible. Can only be used with the Lyric in Low-Security Mode (Green LED)
Honeywell 5853
Honeywell 5853 wireless glass break detector exterior
Glass break sensor. Uses Loop 1.
Honeywell 5869
Honeywell 5869 wireless commercial panic switch
Commercial panic switch. Uses Loop 1. Latches when tripped, key (provided) needed to reset it after it is tripped
Honeywell 5878
Honeywell 5878 wireless remote alarm keypad
Six (6) button key fob. Uses two (2) Serial Numbers, which both use Loops 1, 2, 3, 4. Up to eight (8) inputs possible.
Honeywell 5898
Honeywell 5898 wireless dual tec motion detector
Dual-tec motion sensor.
Loop 1 = Low Sensitivity Motion Sensor. Pet immunity is available for this loop. 50lb or 100lb pet immunity, selectable via DIP Switch 1
Loop 2 = High Sensitivity Motion Sensor.
Loop 3 = Temperature Sensor (High or Low, DIP Switch Selectable)
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9/11 is a day I will never forget. I was a younger man back then, but the images of the two towers smoldering and falling down are seared into my memory. "America is under attack." Those are the words that were uttered by the Principle of my small Catholic school in the great state of Minnesota during a hastily gathered together convocation. Minutes after the student body gathered the first tower toppled into a heap, and shortly thereafter, the second tower followed. America stopped. Our airline industry ground to a halt. For those not old enough to remember, envision a sky with no airplanes. Envision a country filled with people who's stomachs would turn when they would hear the very occasional military Jet scramble. America went silent after 9/11, and everything changed.

I remember the patriotism that engulfed America. Americans hung flags from their cars, put little flags on their lawns, and proudly united around all the things that make this country great. I remember the brave firemen and policemen that waded through the rubble searching for America's living and dead. Many of those first responders lost their lives from complications attributed to the soot and chemicals kicked up by the falling towers. Today, we honor those brave men and women.

In the ensuing years, our country has been stuck in the miry quagmire of wars all over the Middle East responding to those that perpetrated terror on us on that terrible day in the year 2001. Those men and women are heroes, and I am humbled by their commitment to serving the country.

Little did I know then that 20 years later, I would be leading a company that worked closely with the nation's first responders. Alarm Grid is a proud partner with those men and women. We are honored to make both the people we serve and those men and women who serve us more safe. We hope that we continue to do them proud as they serve our country day-to-day. We hope to work with them and you for many many years to come.

Bless you all, and bless America on this most sacrosanct day.

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The Z-Wave Alliance has announced the specifications for the Z-Wave Long Range protocol. Users will be able to take advantage of a greatly extended wireless range and utilize many more nodes on their smart home networks. We're excited about what is coming to the world of home automation!


Z-Wave Long Range (aka, Z-Wave LR), will provide up to roughly four (4) times the range of existing Z-Wave Plus technology. This equates to roughly 200 feet between signal hops! The protocol will also allow for networks of more than 2,000 nodes, whereas the current limit is 232 nodes. Battery life is also being improved, as a typical Z-Wave LR device will be able to run for up to ten (10) years on a single coin battery. And like prior generations of Z-Wave, the Z-Wave LR devices will be backwards compatible with older controllers and hubs.

Executive director of the Z-Wave Alliance Mitchell Klein said of Z-Wave LR, "The Z-Wave LR specification is the first of many technical developments to come from within the new Alliance standards development organizational structure... As smart home networks continue to grow, mature, and add more complex devices, there is a need for more robust technology to support them. With Z-Wave LR, we are building upon Z-Wave’s legacy of strong networks by supporting more devices in a home or building with increased node counts and greater range. It’s more important than ever that IoT devices live on strong, reliable networks, and we’re excited to support this with the latest Z-Wave specification.”

We have heard talk of a Z-Wave 700-Series for quite some time, and it looks like it is now coming to fruition. Of course, we shouldn't expect to see Z-Wave LR technology popping up overnight, but it does appear that it is coming sooner rather than later. It will be interesting to see which security systems are the first to take advantage of this exciting new technology.

If you have any questions about Z-Wave, or if you are interested in monitoring service that includes home automation functionality, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Kentucky will soon become home to the latest Alarm Grid office, as we have been diligently assembling a team of expert alarm technicians in the area. Our new hires need a place to work, and a new satellite office will soon be on the way. This is a big step in enhancing our support team.

Alarm grid inside security stickers

Alarm Grid certainly tackled the pandemic without missing a beat. It seems that with more downtime, many people finally got around to setting up their own security systems. And with the growing demand and increased business, we had to make some new hires.Since our latest team members are all located in the state of Kentucky, we decided it was time to open an office there. We are thrilled to say that our new satellite office is set to open in October.

Our team has been working with an outstanding group of dedicated and experienced alarm technicians in Kentucky over the past couple of months. We have been developing and molding their skill sets to fit the needs of our growing company. Our new team members have really hit the ground running, as they have already begun to assist us in our regular support duties. We are ecstatic to have these new hires as members of the Alarm Grid team.

Right now, our new Kentucky hires are working in a temporary office, as they are learning everything they need to know to take on a full range of support duties. The permanent office is scheduled to open in October, and we are sure our new team members will be thrilled to finally get comfortable and situated. This has been a huge undertaking for us, and we're very pleased to finally have some results to show from all our hard work.

Not much is changing with the Alarm Grid South Florida Headquarters. Our Florida offices will continue to remain as the home for our Sales/Planner Team, our Content Team, and our Executive Team. Support and Activations will be split between Florida and Kentucky. If you haven't called-in to Alarm Grid support recently, you may notice some friendly new voices on the line. Whether you get a technician in Florida or Kentucky, you can rest assured that you will be receiving the very best customer support and service every step of the way.

Alarm Grid sends a special thank you to our new hires for working hard to get up to speed. We also thank our existing staff for their great job in training the new team members. And most of all, we thank our monitored customers for their continued support. We are proud to have all our monitored customers as members of the Alarm Grid family. If you are interested in Alarm Grid monitoring, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our business hours for responding to emails are 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Also check out this guide to learn more about the monitoring plans we offer. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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It's the first Alarm Grid video recap of September! We have some great new videos to show you, and we're hopeful that you find them helpful in setting up your system. Subscribe to our YouTube channel if you haven't yet, and stay tuned for future videos. Let's check out the newest videos.


Using a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with a Phone Line

I explain how you cannot use the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with a phone line connection. Phone line connectivity was once the most common communication path used with security systems. But with the rise of internet and cellular, that is no longer the case. Most newer panels like the IQ Panel 2 don't even have a jack for using a phone line. Instead, the system has built-in WIFI and cellular. Remember that activating for monitoring service with use of Alarm.com requires the activation of the system's cellular communicator.


Removing a Z Wave Device from a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

I show you how to remove, or clear, a Z-Wave device from the network by using a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Clearing a Z-Wave device is typically done before enrolling it with the network to ensure that all the network data is properly wiped out. It is also done if the user no longer intends on using the Z-Wave device anymore. It is important to note that a device can still be cleared from the network even if it isn't actively enrolled with a Z-Wave hub.


Program SiXCT to Lyric Controller

I show you how to program a Honeywell SiXCT Door and Window Contact Sensor to a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. The Honeywell SiXCT is a wireless door and window sensor that uses 128-bit AES encryption for enhanced wireless security. The sensor has a terminal block so that you can use it as a wireless transmitter with a wired contact sensor. The wireless range for the SiXCT is roughly 300 nominal feet, and it has a green LED light to assist with enrollment.


Program SiXMINICT to Lyric Controller

I show you how to program a Honeywell SiXMINICT to a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. The SiXMINICT is a smaller version of the SiXCT. Unlike the SiXCT, the Honeywell SiXMINICT does not have a terminal block, and the sensor cannot be used as a wireless transmitter. It also has a smaller wireless signal range of only about 200 nominal feet. However, this door and window sensor is smaller than the SiXCT, and many users prefer the more compact design of the SiXMINICT. It retains the same green LED light to assist with enrollment.


Program a Honeywell SiXGB to the Lyric Security System

I show you how to program a Honeywell SiXGB Glass Break Sensor to a Honeywell Lyric Security System. As a member of the Honeywell SiX Series Lineup, the SiXGB utilizes 128-bit AES encryption, and it can only be used with the Lyric System. The wireless glass break sensor actively listens for the sound of breaking glass. It is great for monitoring windows and protective glass casings. The sensor has a detection range of roughly 25 feet, and it needs a direct line of sight to any glass being monitored.


Adding an External Communicator to a DSC PowerSeries NEO

I show you how to install an external communicator for a DSC PowerSeries NEO Security System. The PowerSeries NEO requires an added communicator for connecting with Alarm.com. The communicator connects with the DSC PCL-422 Module, which comes included. Then, a PC-Link cable connection is made between the NEO Panel and the PCL-422. Once the communicator is properly installed, you will need to activate it for monitoring service. Remember that you will need a monitoring plan that offers cellular communication.

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Alarm Grid is closed today, Monday September 7th in observance of Labor Day. During this time, we will not be answering phones, and we will not be checking any emails. Please keep that in mind when contacting us for support or assistance. Our team will resume their usual duties on Tuesday.

Alarm grid inside security stickers

If you need to contact us during this time, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com, and we will do our best to provide a response on Tuesday. If you need to put your system on test mode, then please call us at (888) 818-7728 and choose option [9], or use the convenient MyAlarms.com feature. We hope you have a fun and safe Labor Day, and we look forward to hearing from you on Tuesday.

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Labor Day is Monday (Alarm Grid will be closed), and for many, Labor Day Weekend starts today! We know that many people will be traveling to visit their family and friends. We figured now was a good time to post some tips you can follow to ensure your home stays safe while you're away.


Arm Your System

Qolsys iq panel 2 verizon 7 security panel w slash z wave ready

This is a no-brainer, but please remember to Arm Away before you leave for the weekend. We feel silly stating the obvious, but we do occasionally hear about people who forget to Arm, and they pay the consequences. Remember that if you're monitored and have access to Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, you can check on your phone to see if your security system is armed, even while you're traveling.


Leave Some Lights On

Qolsys iq lightbulb dimmable z wave lightbulb for iq and iq pane

By leaving some lights on, you can make it appear that you are home, even if you're really on vacation. An intruder will think twice about trying anything if they see that lights are left on inside the home. You might even consider getting smart lights and setting an automation schedule so that they turn on and off at different times. Alarm Grid has a great selection of smart lights for you to consider.


Don't Brag On Social Media

2gig gc3e verizon lte 3 1 kit wireless encrypted alarm system 3

We understand that you're very excited about your weekend travels, and you want to tell everyone about your plans. But hold your horses before you go letting the world know that your house will be vacant all weekend. A savvy intruder might check your social media page and use the information to their advantage. Instead, try letting close friends and family know discreetly via a phone call, text message, or private message on social media.


Check Your Sensors

Honeywell sixcombo wireless smoke heat and co detector


It's a good idea to perform a routine system test before departing for a weekend getaway. This can be especially important for life-safety sensors like smoke detectors and CO sensors. Sure, you can still get an RF supervision loss notification via TC2 or ADC, but you're probably not going to be constantly staring at your phone during your vacation. Check your system beforehand so that you can focus on enjoying yourself. And remember to put your system on test mode before testing!


Don't Forget About Your Stove


Fire-safety is always important, and many people accidentally leave their stoves and grills on before leaving for the weekend. Take your time and make sure these appliances are off before you head out. And if you're hosting others, remember to turn off your stove or grill before you go and socialize. If you're concerned, then consider getting a 2GIG STVGRL1-345, which works well with the Lyric, the 345 MHz IQ2+, and all the 2GIG Alarm Panels.


Have a Fun Labor Day Weekend!

Alarm grid inside security stickers


No matter how you enjoy your Labor Day Weekend, we hope that you have a fun and safe time with those who matter most to you. Remember that we will be away until Tuesday, so if you need to reach us, then email support@alarmgrid.com. Also keep in mind that if you need to put your Alarm Grid monitored system on test mode, you can do so at anytime by calling (888) 818-7728 and choosing option number (9). Have a great Labor Day Weekend!

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If you're using a newer wireless security system, then you will definitely want to explore the encrypted sensor options that we offer! Encrypted sensors are virtually impossible to hack, and they can make your security system even more secure. There are many great options available.

Honeywell sixminictpk5 a 5 pack of sixminict encrypted wireless

As you know, a home security system or a business security system is an investment you make for the protection of yourself, your property, and those around you. A proper system should also give you peace of mind and make you feel safe. It doesn't do you any good if an intruder manages to defeat your system. But with encrypted sensors, that is extremely unlikely to ever happen.

If you aren't familiar with encryption, it refers to techniques for encoding data and signals so that only authorized individuals and/or equipment are able to access the information. When it comes to wireless alarm systems, encrypted sensors send protected signals that can only be accessed, received, and interpreted by the authorized panel.

When wireless systems first rose to prominence, they rarely, if ever, used encryption. This made many people wary of wireless security panels, and they felt more secure using wired ones. The lack of encryption wasn't seen as a fatal flaw, as an intruder would have to be extremely savvy and really know what they're doing to defeat even a non-encrypted sensor. To this day, many people feel totally comfortable and safe using non-encrypted equipment. Remember, most intruders don't have the knowledge to beat wireless sensors, even if they aren't using encryption.

But there are the rare, professional criminals who do take the time to extensively study security equipment, and they develop techniques for beating non-encrypted devices. This is very uncommon, but it's not unheard of. And if you aren't using encrypted sensors, then you are leaving yourself open to this small risk. Whether or not that means outfitting your system with all-new encrypted sensors, or even upgrading to a different system that is capable of supporting encrypted sensors is up to you. We just want to make you aware of your options.

Today, we're going to briefly look at some popular wireless systems and explore their encrypted sensor options, as well as their non-encrypted sensor lineups. This will help you learn more about your system, or one you are considering for purchase.


Honeywell Lyric Controller

Honeywell lyric controller encrypted wireless security system


The Lyric represents the first the first encrypted panel from Resideo, formerly known as Honeywell. The system has its very own lineup of encrypted sensors called the Honeywell SiX Series Sensors. The lineup is a bit limited, as its lacking options like an outdoor door and window sensor and a curtain motion sensor. But the good news is that these sensors are extremely secure with their military grade 128-bit AES encryption.

You can supplement your SiX Series Sensors on your Lyric System with devices from the Honeywell 5800 Series. These sensors are not encrypted, but the lineup offers more diverse selection than the SiX Series lineup. You could consider using encrypted sensors for the most vulnerable parts of your home or office, while using non-encrypted 5800 Series devices for areas where it isn't as important. The non-encrypted 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors are also compatible with the Lyric once the system is on Firmware Version MR3 or higher.


Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Qolsys iq panel 2 plus verizon lte with powerg s line and legacy


There are some outstanding encryption options available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, regardless of which version you have. Any IQ Panel 2 Plus System can readily support DSC PowerG Sensors. Not only do these sensors have an outstanding wireless range of up to 2,000 feet away from the IQ Panel 2 Plus, they also utilize military grade 128-bit AES encryption and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology.

And if you have the 319.5 MHz Version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you can also pair Qolsys S-Line Sensors, which use rolling code encryption. This rolling code encryption isn't quite as secure as the encryption used by PowerG Sensors, but it still does a good job of keeping your system protected. The S-Line Sensors will also utilize encryption when paired with the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2. The original IQ Panel 2 cannot use PowerG Sensors.

In terms of non-encrypted options, each IQ Panel 2 Plus can support one of three (3) non-encrypted radio frequency signals. The available options are 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, and 433 MHz, and it is dependent upon which version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus you buy. Again, it is certainly possible to mix encrypted sensors with non-encrypted sensors on the same system. But with the diversity and selection of the PowerG lineup, you probably won't need to look outside too much.


2GIG GC3e

2gig gc3e wireless encrypted alarm panel


The big highlight when the 2GIG GC3e was introduced was its ability to support encrypted sensors. While it took a little while before its encrypted sensor lineup became available, we were very pleased with the result. The 2GIG eSeries Sensors use highly secure encryption to keep your system protected. It also seems that 2GIG is regularly expanding upon this lineup, as we have been seeing new eSeries Sensors hit the market it recent times. All of the 2GIG eSeries Sensors are compatible with the GC3e, as well as its little brother, the GC2e.

With the GC3e, you also get access to the Honeywell 5800 Sensors and the 2GIG 345 MHz lineup. Just like with the Lyric, there is a bit more of a diverse selection of non-encrypted sensors available for the 2GIG GC3e. You can definitely set up a mixture of encrypted and non-encrypted sensors to meet the needs of your business. But with new 2GIG eSeries offerings continuing to become available, you shouldn't have much trouble building a fully encrypted 2GIG Security System.


Alarm grid inside security stickers

If you are looking to set up an encrypted security system, then Alarm Grid is here to help! We can let you know if your existing system has any encrypted sensor options available. We can also help you determine if you are currently using encrypted devices or if your existing sensors are non-encrypted. Many users have trouble determining. Either way, we'll help you make an informed decision so that you can get the most out of your monitoring service. If you want to reach us, please email support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Our friends at Alarm.com have a big reason to celebrate and party, as the virtual basketball team they sponsor has won the 2020 NBA 2K League Championship. Alarm Grid congratulates Alarm.com and Wizards District Gaming for their tremendous success on the virtual basketball court.


Wizards District Gaming, which is owned by Monumental Sports & Entertainment and serves the affiliate of the Washington Wizards of the National Basketball Association (NBA), has won the 2020 NBA 2K League Championship series over Warriors Gaming Squad. The Wizards won Game 4 in a best of 5 series to take home the title. The score of the final game was 70-55 in favor of Wizards District Gaming. By winning the championship, Wizards District Gaming has pocketed $420,000 in prize money. We're sure they will use these funds to fuel future gaming success.

Alarm.com has served as the primary sponsor of Wizards District Gaming throughout the 2020 NBA 2K League Season. The Alarm.com logo was proudly featured on the uniforms for the in-game ballers, as well as the real-life gamers controlling them. Those watching the matches would also notice the Alarm.com emblem decorating the virtual arena. Wizards District Gaming even used the Alarm.com Smart Home in Northern Virginia as their "War Room" for making draft pick selections earlier this year in February.

Director of eSports for Monumental Sports & Entertainment Andrew McNeill said of the victory, "Bringing the trophy back for the fans who have shown us such loyalty and support is so rewarding... We owe such a debt to them, so many of whom have been with us since the beginning, as well as those who contributed to the explosive growth in viewership that we saw this season. With our tremendous partners in streaming and linear broadcasts, we were able to reach audiences in unprecedented ways this year."

Our own team at Alarm Grid offers congratulations to Wizards District Gaming and Alarm.com for their championship. You can also become a member of the Alarm Grid team by signing up for monitoring! We offer a variety of monitoring plans that include access to Alarm.com. Check out our monitoring page for more details. And if you're interested, send an email to support@alarmgrid.com to get started. We check email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. The Alarm Grid team looks forward to hearing from you soon!

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The Security Industry Association (SIA) has named twelve (12) women as recipients for the first ever SIA Women in Security Forum Scholarship. Each recipient will receive $6,650 from the SIA to continue their education and/or pursue career goals. Alarm Grid congratulates the recipients!



The SIA Women in Security Forum Scholarship is open to SIA Members and SIA Student Members. This is the first year that SIA has offered the scholarship, which is specifically designed to benefit women in achieving their education and career goals. Recipients were selected by a committee comprised of volunteers from the SIA Women in Security Forum and the Human Resources Committee of the SIA.

As an organization, the SIA contributes greatly to the development and improvement of the security industry. They are particularly known for their work in setting various security standards, including those related to false alarm prevention. The SIA Women in Security Forum in particular works to improve diversity in the alarm industry by promoting, recruiting, and cultivating the leadership of women. They offer programs, professional opportunities, and networking events to help achieve this goal. The group is open to all women and men of SIA member companies.

SIA CEO Don Erickson said of the SIA Women in Security Forum Scholarship, "The SIA Women in Security Forum continues to break new ground, inspire me and many others and provide unique opportunities for the widest spectrum of people possible to thrive in this field through initiatives like this new scholarship offering... We congratulate this talented and historic first class of SIA Women in Security Forum Scholarship winners and look forward to celebrating their many accomplishments to come.”

The winners of the 2020 SIA Women in Security Forum Scholarship include:

  • Ryane Burke - Partner Marketing and Events Manager for Identiv
  • Margurie Evans - SIA Student Member; Event Security Lead for Phoenix Suns
  • Antoinette King - Key Account Manager - End User for Axis Communications
  • Kavya Madhusudhan - Senior Project Engineer for Allegion
  • Erin Mann - Customer Experience and Strategy Marketing Manager for Allegion Canada
  • Daphne Navarro - SIA Student Member
  • Sheethal Rao - Mechanical Engineer for Allegion
  • Jenna Rolfe - SIA Student Member; Junior Readiness and Security Policy Officer for Global Affairs Canada
  • Joneka Russell - Security Officer for Allied Universal
  • Holly Sanson - Marketing Manager for ADT Commercial
  • Kerri Sutherland - Human Resources Business Partner for Axis Communications
  • Rachel Wyatt-Swanson - Director of Business Development for Cherokee Nation Security & Defense

Alarm Grid congratulates these bright and dedicated women, and we wish them the best of luck in pursuing their future goals. It's great to see some good news come out of the alarm industry, and we're happy to share it. We also applaud the SIA for their work in improving diversity in the industry, and we're hopeful that it encourages more women to get involved with alarm systems. Stay tuned to the Alarm Grid blog for more industry news!

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