Interlogix Simon XTi-5i Posts

The Smart Arming feature can be enabled for any residential customer who has an interactive monitoring plan with Alarm.com. Once enabled, the feature can easily be configured using either the customer website or iOS or Android app.

Once configured, the Smart Arming feature will automatically arm the system to the Stay Mode once the occupants of the home have gone to bed. This can be accomplished using a schedule, or by configuring certain door and/or motion sensors to work in conjunction with the feature. You can reach the Smart Arming settings by going to Security, or through the Automation page. The Smart Arming programming is listed as Goodnight for Arming, and Wake Up for Disarming.

For example, you can set the system to Arm Stay at 10:00 PM, or you can set the system to Arm Stay when no activity has been detected for 30 Minutes between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM (this is just an example, and you can use whatever time frame you want). If you choose the latter option, you then configure which zones you want to apply this logic to.

For the Stay Arming feature, doors, windows, and motions can be used along with the feature. So, once you choose the zones to be used with this logic, if no activity has been detected on ALL of those zones for a full 30 Minutes, and the time is between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM, the system will automatically Arm Stay. Smart Arming logic is canceled if the system is already Armed Away.

For Disarming the options are similar. You can set the system to Disarm at a specific time, or you can set it to Disarm when motion is detected on certain motion detectors within a specific time window. For example, in our screenshot below, you can see we have our system set to Disarm if the Upstairs Motion detects movement between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. We also have it set so that if no motion is detected, the system will still disarm at 9:00 AM, which is sort of the best of both worlds.

Notice that only Motion Detectors are now available to tie to the Disarm logic. You don't want someone opening a door to disarm the system. By the same token, be sure that no outdoor motions are configured to work with this automation.

This is an excellent new feature that can go a long way toward preventing false alarms. No more forgetting to disarm the system when you go to let the dog out in the morning. As long as you set it up so that a motion you walk past on your way to the door causes the system to Disarm, you're all set. No more laying in bed wondering if you remembered to set the alarm. Now, as long as you have configured the Goodnight options, you know your system will arm itself based on either a schedule or activity (or lack thereof) combined with a time window.

The following Alarm.com compatible panels support this feature:

What do you think of this new Alarm.com feature? For that matter, what do you think of Alarm.com's commitment to bringing you new products and features in general? They're doing an excellent job of listening to customers and responding with great new options. Drop us a note in the comments and let us know what you think. We always look forward to hearing from you!

If you use an Interlogix Alarm System with Alarm.com, then you can expect a firmware update for your system's LTE communicator. The firmware update will be automatic, and no action will need to be taken. Interlogix Simon Panels, NetworX Panels, and Concord4 Panels will receive the update.

If you haven't upgraded to an LTE communicator yet, then make sure to do so as soon as possible. The 3G Sunset is going to occur on January 31st, 2022 for AT&T and December 31st for Verizon. If you are not aware of the 3G sunset, then please read this blog to get acquainted. This upgrade is very important to ensure that you do not experience a loss of service.

We want to mention that each firmware update is just a general update designed to improve the user experience. Each update is being pushed down automatically, at no cost to the user. No action is needed on your end, just have your system online and connected with the Alarm.com servers, and everything will be taken care of.

Please note the update according to your Interlogix System:

• Interlogix Concord4 - Firmware Update 189d
• Interlogix NetworX - Firmware Update 189a
• Interlogix Simon XT, XTi, XTi-5, XTi-5i - Firmware Update 191f

Additionally, if you use a Honeywell VISTA System with an Alarm.com SEM (not AlarmNet or Total Connect 2.0), then you will also be getting a pair of automatic system updates. All VISTA Systems using Alarm.com SEMs will receive the SEM VISTA 187i Upgrade and the 1.61 Firmware Upgrade. Again, both updates are automatic, and they are being provided at zero cost.

That's all the news for now. If you have any of the aforementioned systems on Alarm.com, then you can expect the automatic firmware update. If you are monitored by Alarm Grid and you are having any trouble with your system, please email support@alarmgrid.com. Please keep in mind our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm ET M-F.

It's always a great start to the week when there's a new Alarm Grid video recap! We have six (6) new videos to check out this time. I had to step in front of the camera again, as others continue to work from home. It will be a bit longer before others return. But anyway, here are the videos.

Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5: Setting Installer Code to Default

I show you how to set the Installer Code on an Interlogix Simon XTi or Interlogix Simon XTi-5 to its default setting. The default Installer Code for these systems is 4321. This is actually the same default code as the default Dealer Code for these systems. The only way to have the same Installer Code and Dealer Code on an Interlogix Simon XTi or Interlogix Simon XTi-5 is to keep both of the codes at their default setting of 4321. If you change either code, then you must factory default the system to get both codes back to the default.

IQ Panel 2 Plus: Setting Installer Code to Default

I show you how to set the Installer Code on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus back to default. This system has a default Installer Code of 1111. Alarm Grid recommends keeping the code at its default so that you do not become locked out of programming. If you forget the default code, you can always look it up later. Keeping the Installer Code at the default does not present a security risk because you cannot disarm the system with that code. To reset the Installer Code, you must know either the current Installer Code or the current Dealer Code.

Connecting August Smart Lock Pro to WIFI

I show you how to connect the August Smart Lock Pro to a WIFI network. To do this, you will need an August Connect WIFI Bridge. Alarm Grid sells a bundled kit that comes with both devices. Connecting your August Smart Lock Pro to WIFI will allow you to control the lock remotely through the August Home App when your phone is outside of Bluetooth range. The only other ways to control the lock remotely are outside of the August App through Apple HomeKit or Z-Wave. The August App switches to WIFI automatically once you are outside of Bluetooth range.

Using August Smart Lock Pro With Apple HomeKit

I show you how to configure the August Smart Lock Pro for use with Apple HomeKit on an Apple iOS device. All HomeKit communication for the August Smart Lock Pro occurs through wireless Bluetooth connectivity between the lock itself and a dedicated HomeKit Hub. The dedicated HomeKit Hub can be an Apple iPad, an Apple HomePod, or an AppleTV Gen 4 or higher. You must keep the dedicated HomeKit Hub within Bluetooth range at all times for proper connectivity. The lock cannot use WIFI to communicate with the HomeKit Hub, even if an August Connect WIFI Bridge has been configured.

Wired Alarm System: Power Cycling

I show you how to power cycle your hardwired security system. Power cycling, or a power cycle reset, involves powering the system down and then powering it back on. There are a few reasons you might do this. If you are adding new hardware, such as a new keypad or a new alarm monitoring communicator, then you must power down your system first, and then power it back on after the hardware is installed. You might also power cycle as a general troubleshooting step. Most wired alarm panels require you to manually remove and restore power to fully power cycle.

Wireless Alarm System: Power Cycling

I show you how to power cycle your wireless security system. The reasons for power cycling a wireless system are usually the same reasons you would power cycle reset a wired alarm system. These reasons include making hardware changes and general troubleshooting. But for a wireless system, there is often a menu option you can use to reboot the system, without needing to manually drop and restore AC power and battery power. You should refer to the installation manual for your wireless alarm system to learn how to reboot through a menu selection, as it differs between systems.

Just like any residence, an apartment is at-risk for a burglary or break-in. An unlocked door or a shattered window offers an easy entrance for an intruder. With an apartment security system you can be ready if this occurs. But picking a system can be daunting with so many options available!

Luckily, Alarm Grid is here to help you pick the best apartment alarm system for your needs. A good apartment security system usually features a wireless panel that can be installed using a desk or table stand. This will allow you to easily take the system with you when you move, and it will prevent you from having to drill holes in the wall. The wireless sensors can similarly be mounted using double-sided foam tape, and they can be easily removed if you relocate. You may also want the panel to include some cool smart home automation features to make your life more convenient.

It is strongly recommended that you select an apartment security system that is non-proprietary. This means that you will be able to take it to a new monitoring company if you cancel your current service. A great option is to go with a DIY no-contract alarm monitoring company like Alarm Grid. Our company does not charge you anything to start or stop monitoring service, which is really convenient if you ever need to take a month off of service while you are moving. We also offer systems that are super quick and easy to install without having to hire a professional installer!

With that in mind, we have our picks for the top 5 apartment security systems of 2019. All of these systems work great if you are looking to set up your own apartment alarm system that you can take with you if you decide to move later on. These systems are all very easy to use, and you can set them up in a matter of minutes. Let's check out the systems!

5. Interlogix Simon XTi-5i

Interlogix has long been known for their cost-effective systems. While they are ceasing operations at the end of the year, they are leaving us with a very good system. The Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is great if you need a no-frills alarm panel for basic operation. It has a 5-inch touchscreen display, support for up to 80 wireless zones, and some great communicators available, including some dual-path options. Adding a communicator will also make the system Z-Wave ready. You can even choose from an exclusive lineup of Interlogix Encrypted Sensors to add to the system. And for apartments, there is an excellent table stand you can buy for the system!

4. 2GIG GC2e

The 2GIG GC2e is the current entry-level option from 2GIG. It packs some great features into a small package, and it provides some nice upgrades over its 2GIG GC2 predecessor. With the GC2e, you will enjoy a larger 5-inch touchscreen, built-in Z-Wave Plus, and support for 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. Some other specs include support for up to 60 wireless zones and 64 different user codes. Remember to add a cellular communicator so that you can use with system for monitoring service through Alarm.com. And don't forget about the desk mount!

3. 2GIG GC3e

2GIG offers an impressive high-end security system with their GC3e. It still retains a lot of similarities to the discontinued 2GIG GC3, while offering some new upgrades in its own right. Namely, the panel now supports the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, and it offers a fresh redesign over its predecessor. Returning features to the GC3e include a 7-inch touchscreen, support for up to 100 wireless zones, 100 user codes, partitioning, integrated WIFI, and built-in Z-Wave Plus. Note that you will still need a cellular communicator to monitor the system and use it with Alarm.com. Interestingly, the system uses the same desk mount as the 2GIG GC2e.

2. Honeywell Lyric Controller

There are many reasons why we can confidently say that the Honeywell Lyric Security System is one of the best panels on the market today. It is one of very few panels (and currently the only one on this list) that can support Apple HomeKit. The Lyric offers a very impressive 128 wireless zones, 64 user codes, built-in Z-Wave, and a 7-inch touchscreen. You will have no trouble filling up the zones with Honeywell SiX Series Sensors, which offer military-grade 128-bit encryption! Other features include a built-in 2MP camera for disarm photos and ten (10) different chime settings.

The panel also comes with built-in WIFI, and unlike the other systems on this list, it can be monitored across IP only. Not only does this mean you do not need to add a communicator, you can use the Lyric on a less expensive IP-only monitoring plan. This is perfect for users looking to cut-down on monitoring costs. But you can still add a Lyric Cellular Communicator if you want. The Honeywell LCP500-DK is the recommended desk mount.

1. Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

There is so much to like about the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus as an apartment security system. It is sleek and modern with its thin profile and beautiful 7-inch touchscreen. You will love its built-in glass break sensor, integrated 5MP camera, and support for up to four (4) partitions. This is also the only system on the list that is dual-path ready right out of the box, as it has both an LTE communicator (AT&T or Verizon) and a WIFI card. You can even live-stream compatible Alarm.com Cameras right from the panel once you have connected the system with Alarm.com.

Other features include built-in Z-Wave Plus technology for smart home integrations, as well as integrated Bluetooth for optional automatic disarming. If that weren't enough, the system offers support for PowerG Sensors, as well as one legacy frequency (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz). The PowerG support is particularly useful, as PowerG Sensors utilize military grade 128-bit AES encryption and a wireless range of up to 2,000 feet away from the panel. This is way further than you will likely need in an apartment, but it's still cool nonetheless! A standard desk mount comes included with the system, but you can also purchase the Qolsys IQ Stand if you want something a little more robust. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is without a doubt the pinnacle of apartment security systems in 2019.

If you need help choosing a system, or if you want to learn more about the alarm monitoring plans offered from Alarm Grid, then please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You are also welcome to call us at (888) 818-7728. Just keep in mind that our regular business hours are from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We know that it can be difficult to decide between all the available security systems on our site. Today, we're going to make that decision a little easier by presenting our list for the Top 5 Security Systems of 2019. We really have some great alarm panels to present!

A good security system is easy to use, supports many sensors, and offers some excellent features. In 2019, competition is stiff, as alarm systems are becoming more and more user-friendly, and they are stepping up their game in terms of capabilities. Any of the 5 systems on our list would make a very nice addition to your home or business. But make sure to stick around until the end so you can see our favorite system!

With that out of the way, here are our Top 5 Security Systems for 2019:

5. Interlogix Simon XTi-5i

Interlogix may be shutting down at the end of 2019, but at least they put out a decent panel to go out on! The Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is a solid budget alarm system that offers a pleasant 5-inch touchscreen display and a customizable UI. It supports up to 80 wireless zones and a variety of Alarm.com Communicators, including dual-path options. Adding an Alarm.com Communicator will also allow you to use Z-Wave devices with the system. There are even some new Interlogix Encrypted Sensors specifically designed for the Simon XTi-5i System!

4. 2GIG GC2e

The 2GIG GC2e is a budget-friendly system that is perfect for users who are familiar with the old 2GIG Go!Control Panel. As an upgrade from the 2GIG GC2, the new GC2e includes a larger 5" touchscreen, Z-Wave Plus functionality, and support for the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. The GC2e supports up to 60 wireless zones and 64 user codes. Note that you will need to add a compatible cellular communicator to get the system monitored and connected with Alarm.com!

3. 2GIG GC3e

The 2GIG GC3e is the flagship system from 2GIG, and it includes everything you could want in an alarm system. It features encrypted sensor support, partitioning, integrated WIFI, built-in Z-Wave Plus, and a beautiful 7-inch touchscreen display. The GC3e is very robust with its support for 100 wireless zones and 100 user codes. Just remember that a cellular communicator is needed to activate the system for monitoring and connectivity with Alarm.com. Once you add a cellular communicator, the system will be dual-path ready!

2. Honeywell Lyric Controller

The Lyric has been out for a few years now, but it is still one of our favorite security systems. It is the only panel on this list that offers compatibility with Apple HomeKit, and the only one of these systems that can be monitored through WIFI only. The panel features built-in WIFI, but you can add an optional LTE cellular communicator to make it dual-path ready. The Lyric is also the only system on this list that uses the Total Connect 2.0 platform instead of Alarm.com. Another benefit is that the Lyric has its own lineup of encrypted SiX Series Sensors. And you will love its 7" touchscreen. Other features for the system include support for up to 128 wireless zones, classic Z-Wave, 48 total user slots, a built-in 2MP camera, 10 chime settings, and so much more!

1. Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is the best security system of 2019. There is so much to love about the IQ Panel 2 Plus. It has a sleek, crisp design with a 7" touchscreen display. It is dual-path ready right out of the box with a built-in LTE communicator (AT&T or Verizon) and integrated WIFI. It offers some outstanding features, including live-streaming for compatible Alarm.com Cameras, support for four (4) partitions, automatic Bluetooth disarming, a built-in glass break sensor, a 5MP camera, and so much more. There are three (3) versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, with each one supporting a different legacy sensor frequency (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz). But the icing on the cake is that you can use DSC PowerG Sensors with ANY version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. These sensors offer a wireless range of up to 2,000 feet away from the IQ Panel 2 Plus in open air, and they utilize 128-bit AES encryption for maximum wireless security. This is truly the best system on the market right now!

If you have any questions about any of these systems, or if you want to learn more about the monitoring services offered from Alarm Grid, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com or call us at (888) 818-7728. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We know by now you are probably aware of the Alarm.com integration for Amazon Alexa. Today, we just wanted to remind you of the superb features and functions this integration offers and how it can make your life more convenient. Prepare to learn about the Alarm.com Alexa Skill!

It goes without saying that Amazon Alexa is one of the most popular smart home automation platforms available today. This is due in large part to its accessibility. An Alexa Hub is extremely easy to set up and use. And since so many people use Amazon Prime for ordering products online, they realize that adding a simple Alexa Hub in their homes makes sense.

There are many functions you can perform through Amazon Alexa voice commands if you have an Alarm.com Security System. You can have Alexa arm your system, check the current system status, perform entire smart scenes, and control individual Z-Wave smart home devices. Truly, the automation features offered from Alexa voice commands for Alarm.com are particularly exciting.

Alexa even allows you to set up special "Secure Commands" for Alarm.com, which include disarming your system, opening your garage door, and unlocking your Z-Wave door locks. These Secure Commands require you to provide a valid PIN code when speaking with Alexa. This way, you can be sure that it is you or someone you trust controlling your system through the hub!

To get started using Amazon Alexa with Alarm.com, you must first have access to the Alarm.com Platform. This will require having a system with a compatible Alarm.com Cellular Communicator. You will also need to get an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com. Two of the best plans to choose from are the Alarm Grid Gold Plan and the Alarm Grid Platinum Plan. You can learn more about these plans, plus all our other monitoring plans, on our alarm monitoring page.

Once your system is activated for monitoring service, and you have successfully created your Alarm.com account, you can then enable the Alarm.com Alexa Skill. Simply search for Alarm.com in the Skills & Games section of the Alexa App, and locate the Alarm.com Skill. You will need to provide your Alarm.com account information when you go to enable the skill. This will allow Alexa to communicate with your Alarm.com account.

You can then try controlling your system and paired smart home devices through Alexa voice commands! Remember that commands for use with your system will lead in with "Alexa, tell Alarm.com to..." As long as you remember that, you will have no shortage of exciting and convenient voice commands that you can use with Amazon Alexa and Alarm.com!

If you have any questions, then remember that the Alarm Grid Support Team is happy to help! We will answer any questions you have about the Alarm.com Alexa Integration or about the Alarm.com platform or our monitoring services in general. The best way to contact us if you have questions is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm ET. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid has learned that Interlogix will start shutting down its business in North America by the end of 2019. The company states that it will concentrate on growth in other fire and security businesses. Interlogix says that it will follow-through on any existing warranty obligations.

This is a surprising turn of events, considering Interlogix has very recently released new equipment, including the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i Security Panel. But on the other hand, it isn't too shocking when you consider that Interlogix likely couldn't compete with some of the other big names in the security industry. This includes Qolsys, who just announced that they would begin manufacturing their IQ Panel 2 Plus System in the United States.

If you have an existing Interlogix System, do not worry. Alarm Grid will continue to provide effective and reliable monitoring for you panel. There is no reason for monitoring platforms like Alarm.com to drop support for existing communicators. You should also have no problem activating a new communicator for an Interlogix Panel. If you move into a new home and find an Interlogix Panel on the wall, there is a great chance you will be able to use it with Alarm Grid!

Anyway, we will be sad to see Interlogix go. We wish them the best in whatever endeavors they decide to take on moving forward. But there are still some outstanding security companies like Qolsys, Resideo, and Nortek that are continuing to innovate and release impressive equipment. We expect great things on the horizon for the security industry moving forward.

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

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

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

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

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

Hi DIYers! We are pleased to announce that the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is now available for purchase from the Alarm Grid website. This is a capable wireless panel, all available at an affordable price. It is perfect for homes and small businesses looking for an effective security solution.

Although the Simon XTi-5i is considered a "budget" alarm system, it still offers the same great performance you would expect out of any modern alarm system. The system is essentially an upgrade over the current Simon XTi-5, but it has been revamped to enhance the end user experience. The 5" full-color touchscreen has been improved from the older models, and it feels more satisfying to control. We tested the touchscreen at ISC West 2019, and we gotta say, it's a major improvement.

New to the Simon XTi-5i is the ability to adjust the user interface (UI). You can have the color schemes for the system menus match those from Alarm.com. You will get the same great orange and white color scheme for the Simon XTi-5i as what you have on Alarm.com. This should help you feel more comfortable, whether you are controlling your system from the panel or from the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices. By using the mobile app, you can access your system from almost anywhere!

In order to access Alarm.com, you will need an Alarm.com Communicator. Both LTE cellular and dual-path options are available. Getting your Simon XTi-5i connected with Alarm.com will provide you with the most reliable alarm monitoring service possible. You will also be able to access Alarm.com through the mobile app to control your system in a variety of ways. This includes arming and disarming, checking system status, controlling Z-Wave devices, viewing Alarm.com Cameras, and more. Please note that you will need a Self Gold Plan or higher from Alarm Grid to access Alarm.com, and a Self Platinum level plan or higher is required for remote viewing of Alarm.com cameras. More information can be found on our alarm monitoring page.

The Simon XTi-5i will actually support the same communicators as all of the previous Simon Panels. We recommend using one of the following communicators:

• Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT (AT&T LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-VZ (Verizon LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT (AT&T LTE & IP)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ (Verizon LTE & IP)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT (AT&T LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-VZ (Verizon LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only) (Must be FW 191C or higher)

Each of these communicators also doubles as a perfectly functional Z-Wave controller. This will allow you to start building a complete smart home network of Z-Wave devices. You can create scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically with certain system events or on a set schedule. This can definitely help you save money on energy costs and make your life more convenient. There are all sorts of Z-Wave devices you can add, including lights, locks, thermostats, water valves, and more!

In addition to a better touchscreen and revamped menus, the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i also packs some more power under the cover. The zone count has doubled up to 80 wireless zones. This is perfect for virtually any home or any small to medium sized business. You can even use two (2) hardwired Normally Closed (NC) contacts with the system and connect them to the main board. Just be aware that these hardwired contact sensors will still cut into the maximum 80 zone limit.

As far as sensor support goes, the Simon XTi-5i facilitates the same great 319.5 MHz sensors that its predecessors supported. This includes the wireless sensors from Interlogix and Qolsys. You can also use the Qolsys S-Line Sensors with the system, though they will not utilize encryption with the Simon XTi-5i. If you want encrypted sensors for the system, you will have to wait for the exclusive lineup of Interlogix Encrypted Sensors, which should be made available soon. It is unknown which form of encryption these sensors will utilize, but it is expected that they will work exclusively with the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System.

You can now purchase the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i from Alarm Grid! If you have any questions about this exciting new system, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. If you prefer to call us, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and telling you all about this great new panel!

Hi DIYers! We are excited to announce that we now have dual-path communicators available for the Interlogix Simon Series Systems. Compatible panels include the Simon XT (1.3+), Simon XTi, Simon XTi-5 and the upcoming Simon XTi-5i System. There are AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE options available.

If you are an Interlogix Simon user, then you know how important it is to add an alarm monitoring communicator to your system. These systems don't come with an integrated communicator, and you need to add one if you want reliable alarm monitoring service and connectivity with the Alarm.com platform. By accessing Alarm.com, you can arm and disarm your system, check current system status, control Z-Wave devices, and view your ADC Cameras from virtually anywhere in the world.

What's great about these new communicators is that they utilize dual-path connectivity across an LTE network and a local IP network. In other words, you get the ultra-fast speeds of IP monitoring, plus the full reliability of cellular connectivity. If one path goes down or becomes unavailable, the other path will be there to back it up. This is ideal for situations where the internet goes down or when an electrical outage takes your router offline. Your system will still have cellular service to fall back on.

You get more than just trustworthy dual-path connectivity with one of these new communicators. They are also effective Z-Wave Plus controllers that you can use to start building a complete smart home network. You can add classic Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus devices to the panel for use with Alarm.com. This includes the ability to start creating smart scenes for automatic operation based on a set schedule or with certain system events. We recommend using Z-Wave Plus devices for optimal battery life and wireless signal range.

It's important to note that these are LTE and IP dual-path communicators. If you aren't aware, LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution", and cellular service providers have promised to support their LTE networks well into the very distant future. By upgrading to one of these modules, you are ensuring that your Interlogix Alarm Panel can receive fast and reliable monitoring service for many years to come.

These dual-path communicators come in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE options. Remember, this has nothing to do with the cellular service provider for your smartphone. You can certainly have an AT&T Smartphone and use a Verizon Communicator for your alarm system, or vice-versa. You should simply choose whichever service provider works more effectively in your area. The new communicators are as follows:

• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT - AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ - Verizon LTE & IP Communicator

Remember, you will need a Self Gold Level Plan or higher from Alarm Grid to use these communicators. This is the only way to gain access to the Alarm.com platform for security and smart home control. More information about our alarm monitoring plans is available on our alarm monitoring page.

If you have any questions about these new Interlogix Dual-Path Communicators, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check this email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.