Home Security Blog

Hi DIYers! We would like to announce that we are now offering high-quality alarm system wiring and cabling from Genesis. This wiring and cabling is perfect for nearly all types of alarm system applications. If you have a hardwired system or sensors, this is great wiring to have around!

Alarm wiring is needed whenever you add a new hardwired sensor, keypad, siren or other accessory to your alarm system. Cabling is also used for providing power to the panel through the plug-in transformer and backup battery. When you go and make hardware changes to your wired system, you will almost certainly need some wiring around. It is good to have on-hand whether you plan on setting up a brand-new system or whether you plan to make changes to your current one.

Both DIY users and professional installers can benefit from high-quality wiring. And that is exactly what Alarm Grid is offering with the Genesis Wiring. Genesis is owned and operated by Resideo (formerly Honeywell), a company already known for its top-of-the-line security systems. You can count on Genesis to provide excellent wiring that will allow your hardwired alarm system equipment to work effectively and reliably. It is great for wiring alarm systems from nearly any maker or manufacturer.

Alarm Grid is offering 18-gauge and 22-gauge wiring options. 18 AWG is slightly thicker than 22 AWG, and it is better-suited for longer wire runs and higher current draws. We recommend the use of 18-gauge wire, as it offers an ideal balance of maximum wire run length and general flexibility. But if the user doesn't have to worry about long wire runs, then they might want to use the thinner 22-gauge wire for greater flexibility.

All of the cabling featured on our site consists of stranded copper. This type of wire is perfect for DIY users, as it can be cut, spliced and bent without easily being damaged. DIY users who try to work with solid core wiring are likely to damage the cabling and experience major issues when they go to wire their systems. We strongly recommend the use of stranded wiring for all alarm system equipment. This is true whether you're setting up your own DIY system or you are a professional installer.

The wiring we are offering is available in 2-conductor and 4-conductor options. A cable that is 2-conductor will have two inner wires, while 4-conductor cable will have four inner wires. The type to use will depend on the connections you need to make. Remember that you can double-up and use two separate 2-conductor wires to complete 4-wire connections, but you lose the convenience of having four different color wires when you choose this option. And you can always leave two of the inner wires for a 4-conductor cable disconnected when completing a 2-wire connection. But for neatness, you should consider your needs appropriately and choose the conductor option that works best for your needs. All our wire sizes are available in 500-foot and 1,000-foot rolls.

We offer the following wiring products at this time:

• Genesis 18-Gauge, 2-Conductor Wire, 500 Feet
• Genesis 18-Gauge, 2-Conductor Wire, 1,000 Feet
• Genesis 18-Gauge, 4-Conductor Wire, 500 Feet
• Genesis 18-Gauge, 4-Conductor Wire, 1,000 Feet
• Genesis 22-Gauge, 2-Conductor Wire, 500 Feet
• Genesis 22-Gauge, 2-Conductor Wire, 1,000 Feet
• Genesis 22-Gauge, 4-Conductor Wire, 500 Feet
• Genesis 22-Gauge, 4-Conductor Wire, 1,000 Feet

If you have any questions about our wiring products, please send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. Our support technicians and security system planners are happy to address any questions or concerns you might have. We can also help you determine the perfect type of wiring if you aren't sure exactly what you need. We look forward to hearing from you so that we can help you plan your system!

Hi DIYers! We have some fun news for you today. Alarm Grid will soon begin offering tiny and cute Alarm Grid Stickers. These are great for putting on your refrigerator, on your laptop or computer or just placing around the house. You will love the upcoming Alarm Grid Little Stickers!

As you may know, Alarm Grid already offers window stickers for indoor use and weatherproof outdoor stickers. Our swag lineup also includes the Famous Alarm Grid Yard Signs. These are great for showing the world that your home or business is monitored with Alarm Grid. But we received word from many customers that they wanted something smaller and easier to put everywhere. That is why we decided to offer little stickers as well.

Each mini sticker has a strong adhesive backside or frontside that should last indefinitely when properly applied. These stickers are high-quality enough to survive the elements when used outside. This makes them perfect for placing on mailboxes, windows, vehicles and more. We will offer our stickers in packs of one (1), five (5) and ten (10). Each sticker is in the shape of an octagon - that's eight (8) sides - and features the Famous Alarm Grid Blue. You also get our logo, phone number and website for quick reference.

The message "Protected By Alarm Grid" is synonymous with top-quality alarm monitoring service. Any intruder who sees this sticker will know not to mess with your home or business!

And just how small are the Alarm Grid Little Stickers? Well we figured it was best to just show you. We found a penny around the office and used it for size-comparison. Check it out:

Now you're probably wondering when you can get your hands on these adorable stickers. We're sure that you want to share them with your friends, family and colleagues. We understand. Unfortunately, you have to wait. But we promise the stickers will be available soon, and we will very quickly let you know when you can buy them.

For now, the best thing you can do is email support@alarmgrid.com. Let our alarm system support technicians and security planners know that you want your Alarm Grid Little Stickers. We are rushing to get them up as soon as possible, but it doesn't hurt to remind us of the sheer urgency in making these stickers available to you, the Alarm Grid Nation. We promise that these stickers will be worth the wait!

Update: And just like that our mini stickers are now available! We have mini indoor window stickers with an adhesive front:

• Alarm Grid Mini Indoor Sticker, Single
• Alarm Grid Mini Indoor Stickers, 5-Pack
• Alarm Grid Mini indoor Stickers, 10-Pack

And we also have mini outdoor stickers with an adhesive back:

• Alarm Grid Mini Outdoor Sticker, Single
• Alarm Grid Mini Outdoor Stickers, 5-Pack
• Alarm Grid Mini Outdoor Stickers, 10-Pack

Hi DIYers! Today, we'd like to cover some of our newest products from 2GIG. These are all fairly unique 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors that can be used with 2GIG GC2, 2GIG GC3 and Honeywell Lyric Alarm Systems. We are sure that many users will take full advantage of these versatile new products!

We actually very briefly touched on these new sensors during our 2GIG ISC West 2019 Post, but we never had the opportunity to discuss them in-depth. These sensors will also work with the upcoming 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Systems that should be arriving later this summer. Remember, these upcoming panels will support a lineup of encrypted sensors from 2GIG, as well as the current 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors.

As we said before, these are all fairly unique sensors. Some of these options have never truly been offered before. It's a good reason to get on-board with 2GIG and one of their wireless systems. And remember that you can always add a 2GIG RPTR1-345 Wireless Repeater if you need to increase the signal range for any of these wireless devices. Let's take a few moments to discuss each of these new sensors in full detail:

• 2GIG DW30-345 Outdoor Wireless Door Sensor: This a wireless outdoor contact sensor, much like the existing Honeywell 5816OD. The weather-resistant sensor can have an extended gap of two (2) inches between its magnet. However, it should ideally be less than an inch if possible for best results. It receives power using two (2) AA batteries, which can easily be swapped out when low. The 2GIG DW30-345 is great for outside doors, fences and gates that may be exposed to rain, wind, snow and excessive dust. It can be mounted on a flat or curved surface to meet the needs of the user.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG STVGRL1-345 Stove & Grill Guard: This is a unique sensor that alerts an alarm system when a stove or grill has a burner that is left on. The sensor will remain in a fault condition whenever the burner control is left 20 degrees or more from the usual position. A user can set the associated wireless zone to display a trouble condition whenever the sensor left faulted. This way, they will know to turn the stove or grill off if they accidentally leave it on. It is also great for parents who are worried that their children may be playing with the burner. The device is small and discreet, and it is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG F1-345 Safety Pendant With Fall Detection: This is a medical alert sensor that can detect the abrupt and sudden movement that occurs when a person falls down. Just like a conventional medical alert sensor, the user can press and hold a button if they experience a medical emergency or crisis. But the built-in fall detection is great for situations in which the user might be rendered unconscious and unable to press the button themselves. The device comes with a lanyard so that it can be easily worn, and it it is water-resistant with an IPx7 rating. The end user will have no problem using the F1-345 in the bath or shower if necessary.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG GNGRD1-345 Gun Trigger Lock: This a helpful safety device that prevents a user from shooting a gun or firearm unless a 3-digit code is entered first. The sensor will also send an alert to the security system in the event that the weapon is moved or tampered with. This sensor is perfect for families of gun-owners who want to make sure that their children don't get into their weapons or firearms. It is strongly recommended for any gun-owner who wants to ensure that only they can access their weapon. The device is small, discreet and easily to apply. It is powered using a single CR2032 coin cell battery.
  
  
  

All of these sensors are available on the Alarm Grid website now! If you would like to learn more about any of these sensors, we recommend sending an email to support@alarmgrid.com. One of our security system experts will see your email and respond back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you design the perfect alarm system for your needs!

If you're looking to obtain alarm monitoring service for your home, then you can't go wrong with one of our home security system kits. Each kit has everything you need to get started. One of our highly-trained technicians will call you to active your system, and your home will be protected!

With an Alarm Grid Security System Kit, you can expect several essential components. You will receive a wireless alarm control panel that serves as the central hub for your system. This is where you can arm and disarm your system and make programming changes. You will also be able to access your system from an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. This is great if you need to control your system while you are away or if you just want to make sure you remembered to arm your system before you left!

Each kit also includes door and window sensors and a motion detecting sensor. The door and window sensors will alert your security system if a door is opened, while the motion sensor will respond to a person moving throughout the area. We offer kits with varying numbers of sensors so that you can choose a kit that is the perfect size for your home or apartment! We also sell individual sensors if needed. You can start with a small security system now and then expand upon it later. Do whatever works for your home!

Users can also expect a Honeywell LT-Cable with each kit. This cable makes it super easy to provide power to your system with the included transformer. You won't need to strip or prepare any wires. The cable comes completely ready. You will just need a screwdriver to attach it. We also recommend choosing a kit that comes with a cellular communicator. This will serve as a reliable backup in case there is ever an internet outage in your home. If the internet goes down, your system will automatically switch to its cellular backup. Not all our kits include a cellular communicator, but we strongly recommend getting one!

Also, don't feel intimidated if you have never installed a security system before! Some other companies may not want you to believe it, but installing your own system is super easy! In fact, most wireless alarm systems can be set up using nothing more than a screwdriver. Wireless sensors can be mounted with double-sided foam tape, and wireless panel menus are easy to navigate. And our technicians will be there to help you every step of the way with online and phone support. Remember, you get free support as an Alarm Grid monitored customer. Before you know it, your brand-new system will be up and running!

Alarm Grid is your home for all your security system kits! If you need help choosing a system, please reach out to us! You may email support@alarmgrid.com or call (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. Just tell us about your home and what kind of monitoring service you want. Our planners will help you determine the best security system for your house or apartment. We are always happy to help, and we look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We had our video team working crazy hard covering ISC West 2019. But now it's back to the grind with our usual video updates! We managed to get up four new videos for April 18th and 19th. Kudos to our technicians for working so hard. Let's take a look at our latest videos!

Connecting the Honeywell Tuxedo Touch To WIFI

Jorge demonstrates the process for connecting a Honeywell Tuxedo Touch Keypad to a WIFI network. The Tuxedo Touch must be connected to the network so that it can communicate properly with Total Connect 2.0. Proper network connectivity is necessary for the keypad and the Total Connect 2.0 platform to remain constantly in sync. Whether a user operates a Z-Wave device or a smart scene from TC2 or their Tuxedo Touch Keypad, the other platform will receive notice regarding the device activity.

Factory Resetting a Tuxedo Touch Keypad

Jorge shows users how to perform a factory reset on a Honeywell Tuxedo Touch Keypad. By performing a factory reset, all device settings and configurations will be restored to their default values. This is a good option if you are taking over the Tuxedo Touch Keypad from someone else and you want to start fresh with original settings. A factory reset might also be performed as a final troubleshooting step if the device is not working properly. But keep in mind that the entire keypad will need to be reconfigured!

Testing the 2GIG SMKT3-345 Smoke and Heat Detector

Jorge teaches users how they can test a 2GIG SMKT3-345 Smoke and Heat Detector. The device has a test button that allows a user to test the device's LED light, sounder and signal transmission. But you must perform a manual test if you want to check the functionality for the sensor. This means using canned smoke to test the photoelectric smoke detector and a hair dryer on the highest setting to test the heat detector. Remember to place your system on test mode before testing!

ADC SVR122 Feature Overview

Joe talks about the ADC-SVR122 Stream Video Recorder. The Stream Video Recorded is designed exclusively for use with Alarm.com Security Cameras. It allows a user to achieve a 24-hour continuous recording schedule. The user can login to their Alarm.com account through the website or mobile app to view recorded clips that are stored on the ADC-SVR122. They can also connect an HDMI monitor for local viewing. The ADC-SVR122 can support up to eight cameras, and it comes in 500GB and 1TB storage options.

Hi DIYers! We sure have been busy the past couple of weeks following the ISC West 2019 Convention! The vast majority of our content has been posted, and we are now ready to resume our normal posting schedule. We would like to thank all of you for following us throughout this exciting event!

At present, our video team may still have a few interviews and ISC West 2019 overview videos that we may decide to post. But most of our content from the convention has been posted and discussed. While there may still be a few surprises up our sleeves, you can now expect us to continue with our regular posting schedule. This means daily blog posts Monday thru Friday, as well as any immediate breaking news that affects the security industry and/or our monitored customers.

If you missed any of our content from ISC West 2019, we strongly encourage you to scroll down and check it out! We have first-hand looks at new and upcoming products, in-depth interviews with industry leaders, and general discussions outlining the biggest security event of the year. It truly is an exciting time for the security industry, and we are sure that you will want to stay current with the latest news!

Some of the ISC West content we covered this year includes:

• Upcoming Resideo Pro SiX Series Lineup
• Brand-New Nortek & 2GIG Encrypted Products
• First Look at New Interlogix Security Systems
• Redesigned Tuxedo Touch & 6290 Touchscreen Keypads
• Resideo AlarmNet LTE Communicators
• Latest Offerings from August & Yale Smart Locks
• Exclusive Qolsys Commercial Platform Interviews
• In-Depth Look at Danalock Smart Locks
• Alarm.com SONOS Integration & T3000 Thermostat
• Upcoming Multi-Protocol VERSA Motion Sensor
• Exclusive Interview with Z-Wave Alliance and Silicon Labs

Just because ISC West 2019 is over does not mean you should stop checking our blog! We are always posting new and interesting content to keep you in the know. You can expect a fresh post on Monday covering the latest news from Alarm Grid and the security industry. We would like to thank all of you for following us during ISC West 2019. And as always, thanks for keeping up with Alarm Grid. We are extremely proud to help keep your homes, businesses and loved ones safe and protected at all times.

And don't forget, Alarm Grid monitored customers can always receive free support online and over the phone! If you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer, or if you are interested in joining Alarm Grid, the best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We also offer phone support at (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F.

Whether you have been a longtime Alarm Grid customer or you are just getting started with home or business security, we thank you tremendously for your support, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Hi DIYers! We have an very exciting and in-depth interview from ISC West 2019. Our team sat down with Mary Miller of the Z-Wave Alliance to discuss the latest in Z-Wave smart home technology. Users can expect diversified products, improved battery life, enhanced functionality and more.

Nearly every new alarm system hitting the market will utilize Z-Wave Plus technology, which is also known as the Z-Wave 500-Series chipset. This advanced protocol has provided great results for users looking to achieve complete and robust smart homes. Users can expect the upcoming 700-Series to further improve upon this excellent technology and make compatible devices even easier to use.

It's fair to expect that 700-Series compatible alarm systems and controllers are currently in the pipeline from various manufacturers. We will make sure to update you with the latest news as it becomes available. For now, we invite you to check out our in-depth interview for more information about the latest Z-Wave technology:

Keep checking the Alarm Grid blog for the latest security news and discussions. We will have more updates coming soon!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a quick look at the upcoming Wireless VERSA Multi-Protocol Motion Sensor. We got the first look at this device at ISC West 2019, and we think it will make for a great addition to nearly any home or business alarm system that needs reliable motion detection.

As you may know, VERSA already offers a door and window contact that uses the same hardware as the Honeywell 5800MINI. The VERSA Contact is currently available in a 2GIG 345 MHz Variant and a Qolsys/Interlogix/GE 319.5 MHz Variant. Well their multi-protocol motion sensor is a complete game-changer, as its wireless frequency can be adjusted to work with the end user's security system.

The Wireless VERSA Multi-Protocol Motion Sensor will feature an adjustable knob that can be used to set the sensor to work with Honeywell, 2GIG, Qolsys, Interlogix/GE, Bosch and DSC Systems. This technology is revolutionary, and it should make things very easy for DIY users in knowing that the sensor will work properly.

Like most motion sensors, the new VERSA motion will use PIR technology to detect movement. It will also offer high and low sensitivity options. The low sensitivity setting will be used in most applications, and it will support pet-immunity. The high sensitivity option will be suitable for applications that require a higher level of security.

VERSA expects that the new motion will be available sometime in the next couple of months. Additionally, we also received word from VERSA that a multi-protocol wireless door and window contact is also in the works. You will soon be able to outfit nearly any wireless system with VERSA contacts and motions!

We encourage you to view the following video for more information about the upcoming motion:

Keep checking Alarm Grid for more news from ISC West 2019. We will make sure to keep you updated!

Hi DIYers. We made sure to check out the Alarm.com booth at ISC West 2019. The announcements we were most excited about were the SONOS integration with the Alarm.com app and the upcoming ADC T3000 Thermostat. Both will fit in very nicely with the smart home platform offered from Alarm.com.

Alarm.com users will soon be able to integrate their SONOS Speakers with their programmed Alarm.com smart scenes. Users will have the ability to select which audio playlist will play when the scene is triggered. This feature will be great for users who want to put a specific playlist into action when they disarm their system to trigger a scene. The Alarm.com Mobile App will also allow users to play and pause the playlist and adjust the volume as needed. Users with multiple SONOS Speakers can even choose which device(s) will play audio. And with the SIRI shortcuts feature for scene control, it will also be possible to activate a SONOS Speaker using spoken voice commands.

The ADC T3000 Thermostat will essentially replace the ADC T2000 Thermostat. This upcoming Z-Wave thermostat will utilize Z-Wave Plus technology for enhanced signal range. The back of the device offers more space for wiring, and the improved terminals allow installers to make connections more easily. A built-in level helps ensure that the end result is neat and tidy. The UI is very simple, but it also appears modern and sleek. It should fit in very nicely with almost any existing decor. Alarm.com also helped make the device easier to understand, as the words "Heat" and "Cool" are actively displayed based on the current action. Many programming options and settings are available, and the device integrates beautifully with the Alarm.com App.

Thank you for making Alarm Grid your source for ISC West 2019 news! Keep checking our blog for the latest updates.

Hi DIYers! We're keeping the ISC West 2019 content rolling by giving a brief overview of Danalock's presence in the Z-Wave Alliance booth. As you know, Alarm Grid loves all things related to smart home automation, and we believe that Danalock can make a great addition to nearly any home.

The third generation Danalock V3 can be split into two main versions. These are the Danalock V3 Z-Wave and the Danalock V3 HomeKit. Both options provide superb protection and are easily powered using four CR123A lithium batteries. They also offer 256-bit AES encryption for top-of-the-line wireless security. And of course, users will appreciate the sleek and modern design.

The HomeKit version is perfect for iOS users looking for a quick and convenient way to lock and unlock their home using the iPhone or iPad. Unlike the Z-Wave model, the HomeKit version of the Danalock is mostly a standalone device that does not pair with other Danalock accessories. Still, iOS users who want a simple, yet effective smart lock will certainly be impressed.

However, the Z-Wave version of the Danalock is where the device really shines. The lock is certified Z-Wave Plus, giving it an extended range and enhanced battery life when compared with classic Z-Wave devices. The Danalock Z-Wave will pair with nearly any Z-Wave controller and allow users to operate it remotely through an interactive platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

The Danalock V3 Z-Wave is also known for supporting key accessories and add-ons that serve to enhance its capabilities. The Danabridge V3 Hub lets the user connect their Z-Wave Danalock with a local WIFI network. This way, they can control the device using the Danalock App on their Android or iOS device. This app will also keep track of when the lock is used and which codes are used to control the lock.

Another accessory supported by the Danalock V3 Z-Wave is the Danapad V3, which is essentially an external, push-button keypad for Danalock devices. Codes are pushed to the Danapad either through the Danalock App (Danabridge V3 required) or through the user's Z-Wave hub. The device can store up to 20 user codes, and it measure 3.2 inches in diameter and 1.4 inches thick. It is powered using four AAA batteries. Please note that the HomeKit version of Danalock will NOT support the Danapad.

Finally, we also took a brief moment to check out some of the Z-Wave light switches and other devices featured in the Z-Wave Alliance booth. It's amazing to see how Z-Wave Plus technology has really taken off and continues to evolve. We hope to be making more Z-Wave smart home devices available on our website in the near future!

Keep checking the Alarm Grid Security Blog for more ISC West 2019 content coming soon! We still have some key interviews and videos we are hoping to put out in the coming days!