Home Security Blog

If you're setting up a new security system for use with Alarm.com, then you might be wondering which door and window sensors to use. The answer really comes down to which system you are using and how you intend on using your sensors. Plenty of contact sensor options are usually available!

Alarm sensors do not communicate directly with Alarm.com. Instead, sensors communicate with alarm panels. From there, the panel will use an alarm monitoring communicator to send signals to Alarm.com. This communicator must be activated and registered for Alarm.com service. Per Alarm.com requirements, cellular connectivity is required. This means that your system must use a cellular communicator or a dual-path communicator that is built for use with Alarm.com.

As far as choosing specific sensors, it comes down to determining whether or not they will work with the system you are intending to use with Alarm.com. Today, we're going to break down some of the most popular Alarm.com Security Systems and help you determine the best sensors to use. Remember that our security system kits already come with some compatible sensors to get started. It may only be that you just need to add a few more door and window sensors, or you might not need to add any extra ones at all!

We will give you three (3) scenarios for each system. These are:

1. Surface-Mounted Door/Window Sensors
2. Recessed Door/Window Sensors
3. Outdoor Door/Window Sensors

In most situations, surface-mounted sensors are what you want to go with. These are the standard regular sensors that you would use with virtually any door or window. They are super easy to install, and they are some of the most basic security devices you will encounter.

If appearance is important to you, and you want the sensor to remain hidden while the door or window is closed, then you may consider getting recessed sensors instead. Just remember that recessed sensors will require you rolling up your sleeves and drilling holes into your door/window and its frame. In addition to the added work, this may also have warranty ramifications with regard to the door or window.

And of course, if you plan on using the door/window sensor in an outdoor environment, then you will want to make sure the sensor is approved for outdoor use. Trying to use an indoor-only sensor in an outdoor environment will likely result in damage to the device due to exposure to rain, dust, etc. This also typically applies if you plan on using the sensor in an area that is not insulated, such as a shed, a gate or a barn.

Note: If you are totally new to door and window sensors and want to know more about how they operate, please check out this FAQ.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus (PowerG)

Arguably the most popular system to use with Alarm.com right now in 2020 is the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. There are three (3) versions of the system, with each one supporting a different legacy sensor frequency (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, 433 MHz). We will discuss the legacy sensor options in a minute. But one of the biggest reasons to purchase an IQ Panel 2 Plus is to use PowerG Sensors. All three versions of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus support the PowerG Sensors. These sensors can communicate with the IQ Panel 2 Plus System from up to 2,000 feet away in open air, and they utilize 128-bit AES encryption and frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) for enhanced wireless security. For anyone with an IQ Panel 2 Plus, these are the sensors we would point to first.

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: DSC PG9303
• Recessed Sensor: DSC PG9307
• Outdoor Sensor: DSC PG9312

2GIG GC3e & 2GIG GC2e (eSeries)

Right now, we view the 2GIG GC3e and the 2GIG GC2e as the best alternatives for users who want to get started with Alarm.com, but don't want to use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The most popular sensors to use with these systems are the encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors. They are built for the GC3e and GC2e Systems, and they utilize encryption for protection against wireless hacking or takeover attempts. Remember that these systems are both backwards compatible with 345 MHz sensors (more on those later). But if you're running a GC3e or a GC2e, then we're going to recommend the eSeries products.

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: 2GIG DW10e
• Recessed Sensor: 2GIG DW20e
• Outdoor Sensor: 2GIG DW30e

Original Qolsys IQ Panel 2, IQ Panel, Interlogix Simon Systems (Legacy 319.5 MHz)

Things become a little tricky when we get into the legacy sensor frequencies. There is usually a lot of inter-compatibility across manufacturers, so often the choice comes down to preference. We will list our favorites based on value and functionality. But understand that you have a lot of options available when it comes to 319.5 MHz sensors. This frequency is used with the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2, the original Qolsys IQ Panel, and all of the legacy Interlogix Simon Series Panels. Keep in mind that you can also use these sensors with the 319.5 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus as an alternative to PowerG. The 319.5 MHz frequency is also typically used with any wired Interlogix NetworX Panel that has a wireless receiver added.

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: VERSA-GE
• Recessed Sensor: Qolsys IQ Recessed Door-S
• Outdoor Sensor: ELK 319DG

2GIG GC3 & 2GIG GC2 (Legacy 345 MHz)

If you are working with a 2GIG GC3 or a 2GIG Go!Control GC2, then you will be enrolling legacy 345 MHz sensors with your system. This frequency was popularized by the Honeywell 5800 Sensors, and later the 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors. The GC2 and GC3 support both of these lineups, so you really have a lot of options to choose from. We're just going to list our particular favorites. Remember that you can also use these sensors with a 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus as an alternative to PowerG.

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: VERSA-2GIG
• Recessed Sensor: 2GIG GW20R
• Outdoor Sensor: 2GIG DW30-345

DSC Impassa & DSC PowerSeries (Legacy 433 MHz)

DSC popularized their own wireless frequency of 433 MHz. If you have a DSC Impassa, then these will be the sensors you are using. The 433 MHz sensors can also be used with a DSC PowerSeries Panel that has a wireless receiver added. Although we do not sell the original DSC PowerSeries Systems, we do offer the DSC RF5132-433 Wireless Receiver that will allow support for these sensors. And of course, you can also use these 433 MHz sensors with the 433 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus as an alternative to PowerG. Unfortunately, we don't have a good recommendation for a 433 MHz outdoor door and window sensor. so we'll just list the other two types instead.

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: VERSA-DSC
  
• Recessed Sensor: DSC EV-DW4917
  

Honeywell VISTA, DSC PowerSeries, DSC PowerSeries NEO, Interlogix/GE NetworX (Wired Sensors)

Many hardwired security systems can connect with Alarm.com using what is known as an Alarm.com System Enhancement Module (SEM). And since hardwired panels often use wired sensors, this makes hardwired door and window contacts technically compatible with Alarm.com as well! Honeywell VISTA Systems, DSC PowerSeries Systems, DSC PowerSeries NEO Systems, and Interlogix/GE NetworX Systems all have compatible SEM communicators available.

The great thing about hardwired contacts is that they are pretty much universal across all wired systems, provided that the system is not using polling loop sensors. We'll focus on standard non-polling loop sensors here, but these are all good options for most hardwired alarm panels. Also keep in mind that there are MANY options when it comes to wired contacts. Don't feel like you are restricted to the ones we happened to pick!

• Surface-Mounted Sensor: Honeywell PAL-T
  
• Recessed Sensor: Honeywell 951WG
• Outdoor Sensor: Honeywell 958

Get Started with Alarm Grid & Alarm.com

If you are interested in signing-up for Alarm.com service through Alarm Grid, make sure to check out our monitoring page. We support Alarm.com with our Gold and Platinum Level Plans (Self & Full) and our Cell-Only Plan. If you have any questions about our products or monitoring services, be sure to shoot us an email at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

For a security system owner, remembering to properly arm the system before leaving can be a tough task. It's one of those little things that's easy forget. You forget to grab your your car keys. You leave a door unlocked. You accidentally leave the lights on overnight. These things happen.

Another concern we often hear from customers is whether or not they really need to arm their systems if they are just stepping outside for a minute. Maybe they're just taking their dog around the block, or visiting a neighbor across the street, or walking over to a nearby convenience store. They will only be gone for a minute or two. Is it okay to leave the system disarmed in these situations?

Obviously, if you leave your system disarmed while you are away and an intruder decides to make a quick break-in, there is little that can be done. Security cameras can capture the event happening, but they aren't going to trigger an emergency response if your system is disarmed. If your system isn't ready to trigger an alarm, and you aren't around to stop an intruder, then there is very little that can be done.

With that in mind, we at Alarm Grid recommend that you always arm your system before heading out, even if it's only going to be for a brief moment. You invest into your security system for a reason. Don't let it go to waste. Protect your belongings and your property. Take the extra second or two and arm your system.

Of course, that is just our advice to you as a monitoring company. We totally understand that some users are going that have that "ah, I'll only be gone a second" mentality. And that's up to you. As an end user, you are in complete control, and if you are comfortable leaving your system disarmed when stepping out for a brief moment, then that is up to you. Just understand that we are not liable if you forget or decide not to arm your home alarm system.

One thing you might do is consider your own personal situation. Maybe it's okay to leave your system disarmed if you're just over at the neighbors, and you can visibly see your house? Maybe you can bring your Android or iOS Phone with you and arm using Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com if it turns out you're going to be away longer than you thought? Maybe your can add a key fob to your system to make it easier to quickly arm when walking out the door, instead of needing to enter a code or pull up a mobile app.

Ultimately, how you use your system is up to you. We recommend always arming, even if you're only going to be gone for a little bit. It's not worth the risk to your property, and securely arming/disarming your system can be such a quick and easy task if you add the right equipment. Nearly every alarm panel can be set up with some type of one-touch arming and disarming function to make the process as simple as possible.

We also understand that some users might have the intention of always arming, but they simply forget to do so. We have some tips for these users as well. You might have a secondary keypad right by the door that you will always see when walking out. That way, you will always remember to arm your system. If you don't want to add a new keypad, you could just put a sticky note on the door to remind you. And if your system is monitored, then you can set up geofencing arming reminders through an interactive service like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. There are many options available.

Remember that many wireless security systems today also often serve as automation controllers. This way, you can use an app on your phone to control the various devices around your home from anywhere. If you forget to turn off your lights, leave your thermostat running, or leave your door unlocked, then you can control the affected device while you are away. This is great for anyone who might be a little absentminded from time to time! Plus, it's good to know that you can always lock/unlock your door or turn your lights ON or OFF if needed. You just need the proper equipment.

Our job is to provide you with reliable monitoring service and the equipment you need to stay protected and secure. You just need to make sure you arm your system when leaving your home. If you need any more tips for remembering to arm your system, or if you want to learn more about any of our products or services that may make it easier for your to use your system, just reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F, and we are happy to help you out. We look forward to hearing from you!

Firmware Version 2.5.0 for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is now officially available and can be downloaded to any original IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus. The update provides some new and exciting capabilities for the system. It is advised that anyone with a compatible IQ2 System updates ASAP.

Before we talk about the new features that come with Software Version 2.5.0, let's first discuss how to update the software on the panel. The IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus System must be already running at least Firmware Version 2.0.1. The panel must be connected to a local WIFI network. Its transformer should be plugged in, and its backup battery should be charged. Once those conditions are met, you can begin the upgrading process.

Start from the main screen of the system. Click the small grey bar at the top of the screen. Select Settings > Advanced Settings > enter the Installer Code (default is 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > enter iqpanel2.5.0 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. If done correctly, the upgrading process should begin. The process will take around (15) minutes. Please note that you must enter iqpanel2.5.0 exactly as the Patch Tag. If you enter the Patch Tag differently, then the process will not work correctly. If you do not have access to a WIFI connection, the firmware update files can be downloaded from our site.

As for the 2.5.0 Firmware itself, the following new features and changes have been made:

• New Sensor Group 25 - Non Reporting. Used with Environmental Sensors (Flood, Freeze, Temperature). Will not report to central station, but will report to Alarm.com Fixes previous issue of temperature sensors being unable to send notifications to users through Alarm.com.
• New Sensor Group 53 - Temperature Reporting. Used with Temperature Sensors for reporting to a central station.
• Added support for sump pump integration through Alarm.com if Water Management Add-On Package is applied to the account.
• Can now delete failed Z-Wave nodes from Alarm.com.
• Added software and settings that support European CE & EN Grade 2 Certification.
• New Languages: Dutch, Italian, Icelandic, Norwegian, Swedish.
• Sensor name length limit increased from 24 characters to 56 characters.
• Can now set Photo Frame Start Time to begin after One (1) Minute of inactivity.
• Panel overheat notification can now be sent to Alarm.com.
• New quick names for motion detection sensors available.
• Disabling the Panel Camera Setting now also disables Panel Camera from the Equipment List and from the Alarm.com back-end and mobile app.
• Master Code can now make language changes.
• Minor translation updates for Spanish and French (Canadian).
• Added access to Tutorial Help Videos on the last page of the Easy Install Wizard.
• Enhanced weather icon mapping between the system and Alarm.com.
• Corrected constant chime issue for Qolsys IQ Remote Keypad.
• IQ Remote will now make severe weather alert annunciations (if enabled on main panel).
• Corrected issue where IQ Remote could become stuck in Network Reconnection.
• Improved communication reliability between system and IQ Remote.
• Photo frame images can now be sent from system to IQ Remote.
• New ability to record duress alarm videos using IQ Remote built-in camera.
• Can enable/disable Disarm Photos for IQ Remote.
• Live-stream cameras can now be full screen on IQ Remote.
• Alarm image upload to primary panel has been improved.
• Check-In & Check-Out Photos for Alarm.com Wellness can be sent to Alarm.com when Image-Plus Add-On Package is applied to the account.
• Wellness alarms will now "ring" at the panel during two-way voice calls.
• New wellness alarm voice annunciations.
• New automatic volume adjustment during wellness alarms.
• Wellness alarm notifications are now automatically cleared after (12) hours.
• Now supports end of line resistor (EOLR) detection when using the auxiliary input on DSC PG9303, DSC PG9312, and DSC PG9945 Sensors.
• Sensor Group 2 - Fixed Silent now available for PowerG Panic Buttons, including DSC PG9938 and DSC PG9949.
• PowerG Sensor Supervision and Legacy Sensor Supervision (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, 433 MHz) can now be set separately. Options from 20 minutes to 24 hours available.
• PowerG Sensor Re-Syncing and Not-Networked Status are now dynamically displayed on main page as part of sensor status.
• New setting that allows sounders in PowerG Smoke Detectors to activate during any alarm type.
• PowerG Sensors are now displayed in Sensor Test in Easy Install Wizard.
• PowerG Image Sensors (DSC PG9934P & PG9944) can now be used for visual verification for fire and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms for the central station.
• DSC PG9902 Wireless Outdoor Curtain Motion Sensor now supported.
• New ability to report tamper condition for Visonic KP-140, KP-141, and KP-160.
• The PowerG Sensor Test now shows historical signal strength for PowerG Sensors.
• Strobe lights on PowerG Sirens (DSC PG9901 & DSC PG9911B) now flash according to siren type.
• PowerG Keypad DSC WS9LCDWF9 now supports Quick Exit feature.
• PowerG Keypad DSC WS9LCDWF9 buzzer now stops during a two-way voice session.
• New support for PowerG Repeater DSC PG9920 AC Loss notification.

If you have any questions about Firmware Version 2.5.0, or if you would like to learn more about our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Like most modules that use end of line resistors for zone monitoring, the IQ Hardwire 16-F is no exception. It comes standard with 4.7k resistors, or it can support end of line resistor (EOLR) learning for values ranging from 1k to 10k. But the standard 4.7k resistors have five (5) bands.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is 319.5 MHz wired to wireless converter. It allows you to easily convert a wired system into a wireless system by taking over your existing hardwired sensors. The hardwired sensors will connect directly with the the IQ Hardwire 16-F module, and the converter will send 319.5 MHz wireless signals on their behalf. The system will then treat these hardwired sensors as wireless zones. You just need to make sure that you have enough wireless zones on the system itself. Each Hardwire 16-F module adds support for 16 additional hardwired zones.

If you aren't familiar with end of line resistors, they are small jumpers that are wired-in at the end of line of zones. The purpose of a resistor is to let the system know that a zone has been physically cut. If someone cuts or tampers with a hardwired zone that is configured with an EOLR, then a short will occur. This will result in a trouble condition on the system. If your system is currently in an armed state, this will cause an alarm. A shorted zone while the system is disarmed will just lead to loss of supervision for the sensor.

You must use an EOLR at each zone for the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F, including with zones that do not have a connected sensor and are not actively being used. Any unit manufactured before week 40 of 2019 was required to use 4.7k resistors at all 16 zones. But from week 40 of 2019 and onward, Qolsys began manufacturing units that support end of line resistor learning. These newer units support Legacy Mode (where 1k to 10k resistors can be used) and UL Fire Mode (where 4.7k resistors must be used at every zone). For information on switching between the two (2) resistor modes, please see this FAQ.

What's somewhat unique about the 4.7k resistors included with the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is that they use five (5) bands instead of four (bands) like we mostly encounter. The 5-band resistors for the Hardwire 16-F are Yellow-Violet-Black-Brown-Brown. This equates to a 4.7k ohm resistor with a tolerance of +/- 1%. This differs from the four (4) band 4.7 k resistors that we often see, which are Yellow-Violet-Red-Gold. Those four (4) band resistors offer a tolerance of +/- 5%.

Really, there is no difference in the way you install these resistors. But it can be good to know if you are setting up a a Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F device. It is advised that you connect the resistors and sensors before attempting to enroll the module with the panel. We also recommend clearing the memory through a factory default for module before enrollment. More information can be found here.

If you have any questions about the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F or any of our other products, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring services. Please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

It's time for another Alarm Grid video recap. We only have three (3) videos for the week. But the good news is that all of the videos this week feature Jorge. We hope that you find them helpful in learning how to use your security system. Let's take a look at the new videos from Alarm Grid!

Connecting an iPhone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how you can use an iPhone to control a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. This is done using the iOS version of the Alarm.com Mobile App. You will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com. The panel will communicate with the Alarm.com Servers using an LTE cellular connection, and you can also set up an IP (internet protocol) communication path as well. By accessing the ADC App on your iPhone, you can arm/disarm, check system status, control automation devices, and more.

The Number of Hardwired Zones Supported On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge explains how there are two (2) hardwired zones built into the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. These hardwired zones are for normally closed contact sensors. You can connect the sensors and then enroll them with the panel by putting the system into its auto-enrollment mode and faulting the sensors. If you want to use additional hardwired zones with an IQ Panel 2 Plus, then a wired to wireless converter is a good option. Just make sure the converter communicates at a frequency compatible with the version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus that you have (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz).

Upgrading a Honeywell LYNX Touch to Use LTE

Jorge shows you how to upgrade a Honeywell LYNX Touch System to use an LTE cellular communicator. This is possible on an L5200, L5210, or L7000 LYNX Touch System. There are two (2) LTE communicators available for these systems. These are the Honeywell LTE-L57A (AT&T LTE) and the Honeywell LTE-L57V (Verizon LTE). You must make sure your LYNX Touch System is on a high enough firmware version to support one of these communicators. If you need to upgrade the firmware, you can do so using the Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Firmware Updater Tool.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus owners will be glad to learn that there are some outstanding security cameras for the system. You can live-stream these cameras from the panel and access their live feeds from Alarm.com using the website or mobile app. Residential and commercial options are available!

All versions of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus support Alarm.com Security Cameras. In order to use these cameras with the IQ Panel 2 Plus, you will need a video monitoring plan that includes video surveillance service for use with Alarm.com. An example of a compatible video monitoring plan is the Alarm Grid Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full). You can learn about our Self-Platinum and Central Station Platinum monitoring plans on our monitoring page.

Once you have the proper system and monitoring plan, you can start exploring the camera options. All of the Alarm.com Cameras listed here support Alarm.com Video Analytics and live-streaming from the IQ Panel 2 Plus System. Whether you are looking to protect your home or monitor your business, there are some truly fantastic options available. We have seven (7) cameras to check out today, so let's get started!

Alarm.com ADC-V523

We're starting off this list with the Alarm.com ADC-V523. This is an excellent residential camera that you can mount on a wall or ceiling or rest on a desk or table. It is highly regarded for its 1080p picture quality. its use of High Dynamic Range (HDR), and its 117° field of view. The camera also utilizes IR night vision with a range of 15 feet. This means that it can reliably record an intrusion that may occur in the middle of the night. It supports connectivity across a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WIFI network, or it can use hardwired ethernet. This is truly the go-to Qolsys Camera if you are just looking for a simple, yet effective camera to use indoors.

Alarm.com ADC-V622-WELL

The Alarm.com ADC-V622-WELL was designed with the Alarm.com Wellness Platform in mind. But it's such an effective and useful camera, that it can really be used nicely in any residential location. This indoor camera can technically be mounted, but its design makes it quite appealing to just rest and leave on a desk. Features for the ADC-V622 include live video & audio streaming, 1080p recording, two-way voice functionality, power over ethernet (PoE), a built-in Bluetooth speaker, IR night vision (15 feet), a built-in call button, and an incredible 180° viewing angle. It makes a great addition to any Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and it will really blend-in nicely with your smart home.

Alarm.com ADC-V723

Residential Qolsys users looking for an outdoor camera can turn to the Alarm.com ADC-V723. This is a 1080p outdoor camera with an IP66 weather protection rating. It is very similar to the ADC-V523 we mentioned earlier. The difference is that this one is built to withstand the elements of an outdoor environment, including rain, wind, dust, heavy sunlight, and more. The camera retains the same 1080p recording capabilities and High Dynamic Range (HDR) of the ADC-V523. It also offers a further IR night range distance (~40 feet) to better capture activity that occurs in the middle of the night. Please note that you cannot use a wired ethernet connection with this IP camera. It must be set up with a 2.4 GHz or a 5 GHz WIFI connection.

Alarm.com ADC-VC726

The Alarm.com ADC-VC726 is where Alarm.com starts to bridge the gap between residential and commercial grade cameras. This is a mini bullet camera that measures 6.1" long and 2.76" wide. While you normally see these "bullet-style" cameras in commercial locations, this camera is so small that it can fit in very nicely outside a home. The camera was built for outdoor use with its IP67 protection rating, but it can certainly be used indoors as well. It offers 1080p recording, an 86° viewing angle, and an IR night vision range of ~95 feet. The camera must use a wired ethernet connection, and it supports PoE. It is extremely versatile and can really be used for almost any application.

Alarm.com ADC-VC736

Commercial Qolsys users typically consider the Alarm.com ADC-VC736 as the go-to outdoor camera option. This is the largest of the cameras listed here, and it really packs some power. It has 1080p recording capabilities, an IP67 weather protection rating, an IR night vision range of about 260 feet, and an 86° viewing angle. The camera measures in at 11.8" long and 4.1" tall, meaning that it's not exactly the most discreet camera out there. But if you need something large and powerful for monitoring the outside of your business, then the Alarm.com ADC-VC736 is a tremendous choice to use with your IQ Panel 2 Plus.

Alarm.com ADC-VC826

The Alarm.com ADC-VC826 Dome Camera is another model that blurs the line between residential and commercial. You normally associate dome cameras with commercial use, but the ADC-VC826 is small enough that you might not mind having it around your home. Its dimensions are just 4.4"D x 3.2"L, so you will have no problem fitting it in a tight space. And you can feel confident using this Qolsys-compatible camera outdoors with its IP67 protection rating. Other features include 1080p recording, a 108° viewing angle, an IR night vision range of ~95 feet, pan/tilt capabilities, and a vandal-resistant exterior. The camera must use a wired ethernet connection for network access, but it does support power over ethernet (PoE).

Alarm.com ADC-VC836

Business owners who want to take the turret camera route have the perfect option in the ADC-VC836. This is a camera that you can certainly trust to monitor your business and keep an eye out for any suspicious or unwanted activity. The camera is great for use with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, as it offers 1080p recording, an IR night vision range of ~95 feet, a 0 to 75 degree tilt function, and power over ethernet (PoE). It is protected against environmental elements with its IP67 rating. You will also appreciate the camera's modest size at just 5"D x 3.8"L. And with its tamper resistant exterior, nobody is going to disable the ADC-VC836 and break into your business without you knowing about it!

Get Monitored!

Alarm Grid offers residential and commercial video monitoring services for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus through Alarm.com. Any of the seven (7) above cameras will work great with your new IQ Panel 2 Plus System. Just choose the best one for your needs. Or if you want extra coverage, feel free to add multiple cameras. Every Alarm.com Video Monitoring Plan includes support for four (4) cameras by default, and expansion packs for additional camera support are available upon request. We recommend checking out this FAQ for more information on what an Alarm.com Video Plan includes.

Wanting to get started? Send us an email at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to helping you monitor your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus for your home or business!

The Grover Beach Police Department (GBPD) has recently announced that fines for false alarms will soon be increased. The department says that it is making this change to reduce wasted resources. End users should take proactive measures to prevent false alarms and avoid fines and fees.

Starting April 1st, users in Grover Beach, CA will be required to pay an annual $25 alarm permit fee and register their security systems with the city. This permit fee applies to both residential and business users. An alarm permit in Grover Beach is valid for one year, and a $25 fee is required for renewal. Grover Beach residents and business owners can apply for alarm system permits at this link.

The break down for false alarm fines for registered users is as follows:

• $50 for 1st False Alarm
• $75 for 2nd False Alarm
• $100 for 3rd False Alarm
• $200 for All Subsequent False Alarms

The break down for false alarm fines for non-registered users is as follows:

• $150 for 1st False Alarm
• $175 for 2nd False Alarm
• $200 for 3rd False Alarm
• $300 for All Subsequent False Alarms

According to the GBPD, the department wastes about $30,000 each year dealing with false alarms. Most of these false alarms can be prevented through proper usage and understanding of a security system. As an alarm monitoring company, Alarm Grid encourages customers with central station monitoring service to prevent false alarms by taking proactive measures. These include setting appropriate Entry and Exit Delays and enabling alarm report delays if necessary.

From our perspective the new false alarm policies for Grover Beach, CA seem tough, but fair. While we are never fans of annual fees for alarm permits, we do believe that end users need to be held accountable for managing their security systems. We also understand that some fees are occasionally needed for maintaining this type of support. Fortunately, most responsible security system users do not cause false alarms. Most users in Grover Beach, CA will likely pay nothing more than this $25 permit fee and the monitoring fees from their alarm companies.

Taking measures to prevent false alarms is very important, as they can prevent the local authorities from dealing with serious issues. Additionally, repeated false alarms can result in the police not taking a real alarm seriously. If your system is repeatedly causing false alarms, then the authorities might not feel like it is important to urgently respond in the event that a real emergency occurs. We understand and respect the decision from Grover Beach to begin implementing a false alarm policy.

For more information on preventing false alarms, or if you want to learn more about Alarm Grid monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We have recently heard about an issue affecting Ubiquiti UniFi Access Points. These access points (APs) have a feature called "Auto Optimize Network" that prevents certain security systems from connecting. The feature must be disabled in order for the panel to reconnect with the IP network.

At this time, we have only confirmed that the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System is affected by this issue. Other alarm panels may also be affected, but we have not been able to test. Once the Ubiquiti UniFi AP has the feature enabled, the panel will lose its connectivity with the network. If the panel has cellular backup, then it will remain monitored using that communication path. But if the panel has IP-only service, then it will lose its ability to send out signals to a monitoring platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

We have received reports from some customers that Ubiquiti has pushed down an automatic update that auto-enables the "Auto Optimize Network" feature. Once that happens, a Lyric System will lose its connectivity with the local WIFI network, even if it is configured with the proper SSID and password. Other systems may also experience a similar issue, but we have only received reports about this affecting the Lyric. The solution is to disable the "Auto Optimize Network" in the UniFi device network settings.

It is recommended that you keep the Auto Optimize Network feature on any Ubiquiti Access Point disabled to prevent connectivity loss for your security system. As long as the feature is disabled, you should not experience any connectivity issues for the system We recommend reviewing the manual for your Ubiquiti UniFi Access Point device for information on how to disable the feature in network settings. As we are not dealers for Ubiquiti products, we cannot provide technical support for this issue. But we can help you reconnect your Lyric System to WIFI after you have disabled the setting.

For more information on this issue with Ubiquiti Access Points, please review this FAQ. Remember to contact us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions about our products or monitoring services. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

As you have likely heard, mainland China is currently dealing with the Coronavirus crisis. This disease has resulted in inventory shortages and manufacturing delays throughout the security industry. Certain products sold by Alarm Grid may be currently unavailable or delayed as a result.

Many of the products sold by Alarm Grid are backordered as China deals with this epidemic. This is completely out of our control, and there is very little we can do to combat the issue. If an item you have ordered is unavailable, we will do our best to recommend a suitable replacement or provide you with an estimate on when the product should be available. We apologize for any inconvenience that may result from this issue. We ask for your understanding and patience during this time. If you would like to know the status of a specific product or if you have any questions about any of the products on our site, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

It was a relatively quiet week for our video team last week, as we only put up three (3) new videos. There was one (1) from Jorge, one (1) from Jarrett, and one from myself, for a nice even split. We hope that you find these new videos helpful. Let's check out the newest Alarm Grid videos!

Using the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with Alarm.com

Jorge explains how you can use the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus with Alarm.com. In order to do this, you will need to have the system set up with an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to the service. Some examples of compatible monitoring plans include the Gold and Platinum Plans from Alarm Grid (Self or Full). By accessing Alarm.com, you can remotely arm and disarm your system, check its current status, control automation devices, and so much more.

How Do I Connect a VISTA-20p to Wireless Internet?

I explain how you can get your Honeywell VISTA System set up with wireless internet. All of the IP communicators for Honeywell VISTA Panels use hardwired ethernet connections. But you can get the panel connected to WIFI by using a compatible ethernet to WIFI bridge, such as an Alarm.com ADC-W110. Compatible IP and dual-path communicators for VISTA Systems include the Honeywell 7847i, the Honeywell LTE-IA, and the Honeywell LTE-IV. The communicator will need to be activated for monitoring service to connect with the AlarmNet360 Servers.

The Internal Alarm Siren On the Lyric Alarm System

Everyone's favorite strapping young lad Jarrett talks about the siren built into the Honeywell Lyric Security System. The Lyric siren is rated at 85 dB, and it activates during intrusion and life-safety alarms. The system supports the Honeywell SiXSIREN if you want to add another 85 dB sounder in a second location. If you are looking for a louder siren, the Qolsys IQ Siren at 105 dB is a great option. We have an FAQ on using the IQ Siren with the Lyric System if you decide to use that device. You can also add a hardwired siren using a FortrezZ MIMOlite Relay.