Alarm.com Posts

Hi DIYers! It's time for another video update from Alarm Grid. This time we're covering the videos from May 30th and 31st. We have six new videos this time. Joe has four, while Jorge and Jarrett each have one. The Alarm Grid boys are back to help you learn your system. Let's check them out.

Connecting an LTE-XV to a VISTA-21iP

The ever-friendly Joe teaches you how to connect a Honeywell LTE-XV to a Resideo VISTA-21iP Security System. The Honeywell LTE-XV is a Verizon LTE Communicator for VISTA Series Systems. It follows the same setup process as the Honeywell LTE-XA, which is the AT&T LTE Communicator. Please note that by adding an LTE-XV or LTE-XA to a VISTA-21iP, you will disable the integrated IP communicator for the system. If you want to use an external dual-path communicator with a VISTA-21iP, you should add a Honeywell LTE-IV instead.

The ADC-V522IR Audio Features

Joe explains the two-way audio capabilities of the Alarm.com ADC-V522IR Security Camera. If you use this camera with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, you can livestream the audio and video directly from the panel. You can also get live audio and video from the Alarm.com Mobile App. This app can be conveniently accessed right from your Android or iOS device. You can even speak through your Android or iOS device and have your voice come through the camera. This will allow you to have a live two-way conversation with whoever is at the other end.

Connecting the August Smart Lock Pro to WIFI

Joe helps you connect your August Smart Lock Pro to a WIFI network. To do this, you will need an August Connect WIFI Bridge. Getting your August Smart Lock Pro connected with WIFI is recommended if you want to use the device with Apple HomeKit. However, it is not required. The only other way to use HomeKit with the August Smart Lock Pro is to have your HomeKit Hub within Bluetooth range (10 to 15 feet) of the lock. Your HomeKit Hub can be an iPad, HomePod or AppleTV (4th Generation or higher).

Arm Stay vs. Arm Instant

Fan-favorite Jarrett explains the differences between Arm Stay and Arm Instant. The major difference is that Arm Instant ignores all Entry Delay settings. This means that any Entry/Exit Zones will effectively operate as Perimeter Zones. If you fault an Entry/Exit Zone while the system is Armed Instant, then an immediate alarm will occur. If you want to Disarm the System while it is Armed Instant, you will need to do so without activating an Entry/Exit Zone. We recommend using a Security Key Fob or an interactive service platform like Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0.

Response Types Supported by the SiXPIR

Jorge discusses the Response Types that can be used with the Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Detecting Sensor. The only available Device Type for a SiXPIR Zone is "Motion Sensor". This restricts the Response Types that can be used. You cannot set the Device Type to "Other" to gain access to the full list of Response Types. As a result, the only Response Types you can use with the SiXPIR are Interior Follower, Perimeter, Day/Night, Interior With Delay, Resident Monitor, Resident Response, General Monitor, and General Response.

Using the August Smart Lock Pro with Apple HomeKit

Joe talks about using the August Smart Lock Pro with Apple HomeKit. By including the August Smart Lock Pro with your Apple HomeKit network, you can operate the lock from anywhere using your iOS device. There are two ways to use the lock with HomeKit. The first is to pair the August Smart Lock Pro with the August Connect WIFI Bridge. This will allow the lock to connect with a WIFI network so that you can access it remotely. The other option is to have the lock within Bluetooth range of your HomeKit Hub. This can be an AppleTV (4th Generation or higher), iPad or HomePod.

Hi DIYers! We would like to inform you that Software Update 2.3.3 is now available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and original IQ Panel 2. This update does not add any new features, but it does include some useful system improvements and general fixes. The update can be easily applied.

Software Update 2.3.3 really only applies useful improvements for the IQ Panel 2 Plus. However, original IQ Panel 2 owners can still perform the update to get their systems on the latest version. This update is very important for helping our technicians provide the best possible support for IQ Panel 2 Plus owners.

The following general improvements are included in Software Update 2.3.3:

• Can now obtain the Long Sensor ID for the PowerG board and report it to Alarm.com
• Can now obtain the Device Firmware Version for any auto-learned PowerG Sensor enrolled after updating to 2.3.3 and report it to Alarm.com.
• Can now send Alarm.com the Radio Firmware Version and Modem Firmware Version for the PowerG board.

To perform the update, your system must be running at least 2.0.1, be connected to a local WIFI network, have its power transformer plugged-in, and have a charged battery. Once you have met the requirements, start from the main system screen. Press the small grey bar at the top. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > enter the Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > enter iqpanel2.3.3 > OK > Upgrade Using Network > OK.

It will take about five (5) minutes for the update to download. The panel should reboot to the home screen when complete. If you have any questions about this update, do not hesitate to email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F.

Hi DIYers! We recently learned that the Sonos Speaker integration for Alarm.com is now available. This allows users to control their Sonos Speakers and include music into scenes alongside other smart home devices. It is now easier than ever to create the perfect ambiance for your home.

There are many fantastic features available through the Alarm.com Sonos Speaker integration. You can play audio from a variety of different sources, including Spotify, iTunes, SoundCloud and more. It's also super convenient to control the audio feedback right from Alarm.com. Users can play/pause, adjust the volume, mute/un-mute and more. You can even choose to play music on all speakers or select a particular set.

But the most exciting part of this integration is the ability to include the speakers into smart scenes. This way you can have Alarm.com activate your Sonos Speakers based on a set schedule or with certain system events. For instance, you might have your music turn on as soon as you get home and Disarm your system. Or you could have your music activate when you open up a door. You can even have it activate with other devices like your lights and your smart thermostat.

In order to use the ADC Sonos Integration, you will need either an iOS device running Firmware Version 8.0 or higher or an Android device running Firmware Version 2.1 or higher. You will also need:

• Alarm.com Mobile App Version 4.10.4 or higher
• The latest version of the Sonos Mobile App and Speaker Software
• The Alarm.com Audio Integration Service Package provided from your monitoring company
• The Sonos Speakers must be connected to the internet on the same network as your iOS or Android device for initial pairing.

To get started with the Sonos integration, you should contact your monitoring company and ask them to activate the Alarm.com Audio Integration Service Package on your account. Alarm Grid customers can do this by sending an email to support@alarmgrid.com. You can complete the rest of the process from Alarm.com.

Login to your Alarm.com account on the mobile app. Press the hamburger button (three horizontal bars), followed by Audio. Select "Sonos" from the dropdown menu. Then press Start, followed by Continue. You will then need to login to your Sonos account and give Alarm.com permission to control your Sonos System. After you complete the process, you will see an Audio option in the main menu of your Alarm.com account through the mobile app. This will allow you to conveniently play audio.

If you have any questions about the Alarm.com Sonos integration, please email us, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

Alarm Grid has learned of technical difficulties between certain PowerG Sensors and the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. These issues affect the PG9914 Wireless Motion Sensor and the PG9933 Wireless Carbon Monoxide Sensor when used on an IQ2+ System running PowerG Version 80.17.

Due to this issue, any DSC PowerG PG9914 Wireless Motion Sensor manufactured before August 23, 2018 will not work with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus running PowerG Firmware Version 80.17. This includes any PG9914 running firmware V3.0.5 or V3.0.7. Also, if the first four (4) digits of the Serial Number are less than "3618", then the device is affected.

Below are some pictures of a PG9914 that will not work with an IQ Panel 2 Plus running PowerG Version 80.17:

Additionally, any DSC PowerG PG9933 Carbon Monoxide Sensor manufactured before March 26, 2019 will not work with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus running PowerG Firmware Version 80.17. Any PG9933 manufactured after this date will include a sticker indicating compatibility with the IQ Panel 2 Plus.

If you want to check the PowerG Firmware for your IQ Panel 2 Plus, you can do so from the panel. Start from the main screen. Press the small grey bar at the top. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > enter the Installer Code (default 1111) > About > PowerG. You should check the Radio Firmware Version.

If you have any questions about these incompatibilities, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you.

Hi DIYers! We hope that you had a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend. Our video team managed to produce eight (8) new videos last week. Joe was featured in five (5) new videos, mostly covering the August Smart Lock Pro. Jorge and Jarrett both had a video apiece, and I made one as well.

Connecting an August Smart Lock Pro with the August Home App

Joe explains how to connect your August Smart Lock Pro with the August Home App. This is one of the first things you will do with the August Smart Lock Pro. The August Home App allows you to operate your lock from your smartphone. You can control the lock through Bluetooth if you are within 10 to 15 feet. You can also operate the lock remotely from almost anywhere if you have the August Connect WIFI Bridge.

Including the August Smart Lock Pro

Joe shows users how to include the August Smart Lock Pro with a Z-Wave network. This is important if you want to control the August Smart Lock Pro from an interactive service platform from Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. The pairing process is completed through the August Home App. You will need to have the lock paired with the app before you can pair it with a Z-Wave network. You will also need access to your Z-Wave hub or controller.

Defaulting the August Smart Lock Pro

Joe teaches users how to perform a factory default for an August Smart Lock Pro. To perform a factory reset, you will need to access your August account through the August Home App. Doing this will clear any Z-Wave and WIFI settings for the lock. You will need to reprogram the lock from scratch using the app. You should only perform a factory reset if you plan on giving away the lock or as a final troubleshooting step.

Excluding the August Smart Lock Pro

Joe covers the process for excluding the August Smart Lock Pro from a Z-Wave network. Unlike most Z-Wave devices, you don't need to clear the August Smart Lock Pro before adding it to a Z-Wave network. Instead, you will only do this if you are clearing the device from the network so that you can add it to a new one. You can complete the exclusion process through the August Home App. If you don't have access to your Z-Wave hub, you will need to perform a Z-Wave factory reset.

Getting an Alarm or Zone Open or Close to Activate a Honeywell IP Camera

Joe talks about how you can create notifications to have your Resideo IP Cameras activate when sensors are faulted or during alarm events. Normally, these cameras will only activate when they detect motion or sound. You can create these notifications through Total Connect 2.0. It is also possible to set specific hours when a camera can initiate a recording. This way, even if a zone is faulted, the camera will only capture clips during certain predetermined hours.

Temperature Sensor Notifications from a Lyric via Apple HomeKit

Jorge explains how you cannot receive temperature sensor notifications from Apple HomeKit when used with a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. HomeKit will only provide specific alerts for intrusion zones on the Lyric. For all other zones, only a General Lyric System Alert will be displayed. This makes it impossible to determine exactly which zone was faulted. However, you can still use HomeKit alongside Total Connect 2.0. The TC2 service will provide specific alerts for any faulted zone.

Is AlarmGrid Compliant with Nationally Recognized Industry Standards?

In a very rare video appearance, I talk about how Alarm Grid is compliant with Nationally Recognized Industry Standards. Nearly all of the systems and sensors that we sell are certified by Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories. Additionally, our central monitoring partner Criticom Monitoring Services is UL Listed and FM Approved. While we may occasionally have equipment on our site that is still in the process of being approved by a NRTL, we stand behind our manufacturers and are confident in their offerings.

Finding the Firmware Revision on a Lynx Touch

Coming through with a video at the very last minute, Jarrett teaches users how to find the Firmware Revision on a Resideo Lynx Touch System. If you want to perform a firmware update for these systems, then you will need the LYNXTOUCH-MSD Updater Tool. It is no longer possible to push an update over-the-air (OTA). Getting these systems on the latest firmware is important if you plan to use an LTE cellular communicator. Please note that you will also need an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity.

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that we are now selling encrypted IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits. Each kit includes a brand-new IQ Panel 2 Plus with built-in LTE communicator, two (2) IQ DW MINI-S Encrypted Contacts, a single IQ Motion-S Encrypted Motion Sensor, a transformer and a power cable.

Last week, we announced that we are now offering IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits that feature the Versa-GE Door and Window Contacts. While these are excellent door and window sensors, they do not offer encrypted communication. Users who want added security will want to use encrypted sensors whenever possible.

The encrypted sensors included with the encrypted IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits use rolling code encryption. When these sensors are enrolled with compatible encrypted systems, they become synced with the panel. This allows a rolling code to be established. Only the panel and that exact sensor will know what the next rolling code transmission will be.

Currently, we are offering two versions of the encrypted IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits. There is an AT&T LTE option and a Verizon LTE option. Both kits are listed below:

• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE Encrypted 2-1 Kit
• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Verizon LTE Encrypted 2-1 Kit

The version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus included in these kits is compatible with the Qolsys S-Line Sensors that use this rolling code encryption. Additionally, it is also compatible with the PowerG Sensors that use 128-bit AES encryption. Both the PowerG Sensors and the Qolsys S-Line Sensors are nearly immune to wireless takeover attacks.

Encrypted sensors like these are perfect for users who want protection against possible hacking attempts. The included system is also backwards compatible with non-encrypted 319.5 MHz sensors. This includes the legacy Qolsys and Interlogix/GE Sensors. Each encrypted Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Kit listed on our site comes pre-packaged by Qolsys. As a result, we cannot make substitutions for these kits.

At this time, we do not have kits for the 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus or the 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus. If you want either of those systems, you will have to purchase all the components individually. The only encrypted sensors that can be used with those systems are the PowerG Sensors. Both systems include a transformer and a prepared cable for providing power.

We are sure that many customers will love these new encrypted kits! If you have any questions please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F to speak to one of our alarm system planners. We look forward to helping you design the perfect system for your home!

Hi DIYers! We have many customers who wonder what happens if their security system is destroyed when an intruder breaks into their home. Fortunately, alarm manufacturers considered this possibility. They put protective measures in place to deal with this issue. Enter Crash & Smash and APL.

Crash and Smash (C&S) for Alarm.com and Advanced Protection Logic (APL) for Total Connect 2.0 are both features designed to provide an added layer of protection in case an alarm panel and/or its communicator are destroyed during a home invasion. These features help ensure that the police are still dispatched and that the end user receives the help they need. An intruder might think they're okay because they have destroyed the panel, but the system is smart enough to overcome this issue.

Just last week, we made a post covering Entry and Exit Delays. Well it turns out that the Entry Delay period plays a big part in C&S and APL. As we discussed last week, if an Entry/Exit Zone is faulted while the system is Armed, an Entry Delay countdown begins. This period gives the end user a chance to Disarm their system before an alarm occurs. But what if the panel gets destroyed during this countdown? After all, the panel won't be able to send out an alarm signal. But this is where Crash and Smash and APL take priority. How they do this is actually quite smart.

Whenever a system goes into Entry Delay, it immediately sends out a signal to the Alarm.com Servers (ADC) or the AlarmNet Servers (TC2). This signal just lets the server know that the system is now in an Entry Delay period. The servers are smart enough to know that since the system is now in an Entry Delay period, a Disarm or an Alarm must follow. If neither event follows, then logically the panel must have been destroyed. The server will then know to send a signal to the central station to let a trained dispatcher know that the panel has been destroyed and dispatch is needed right away.

Please note that the Alarm.com Servers and the AlarmNet Servers do not send signals to the central station as soon as the usual Entry Delay period expires. These servers also account for delays in sending signals. A little more than a minute of additional time is added beyond the normal Entry Delay period before a C&S or APL signal is sent to the central station. This is done to prevent false alarms.

Advanced Protection Logic and Crash & Smash also work during alarms that do not follow Entry Delay periods. If the system has Alarm Report Delay enabled and an intrusion alarm occurs, then the system will not actually alert the central station the very instant that the alarm occurs. The system will actually enter into a short Alarm Report Delay period that is usually less than a minute in length. This delay period gives the user a chance to Disarm the system and cancel the alarm to stop the signal from being sent out. If an intruder destroys the system during this Alarm Report Delay period, APL or C&S will ensure that emergency dispatch is still sent out. Alarm Grid encourages users to disable Alarm Report Delay on their panel if possible.

It's also worth mentioning that the Alarm.com Servers and the AlarmNet Servers send all C&S and APL signals directly to the central station. The end user does not receive an alert from Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0 when these signals are sent out. In other words, C&S and APL do not work with self-monitored customers. You need a central station monitoring plan to use these features. Also, C&S and APL do not work with phone line monitoring. You need an IP communicator or a cellular communicator. UPDATE: Alarm.com can now alert a user directly via a Push Notification on their phone when a C&S event occurs.

If you have any questions about Crash & Smash or Advanced Protection Logic, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring service, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We will check the email at our earliest convenience and respond as quickly as possible. If you prefer to speak on the phone, we are available from 9am to 8pm EST M-F at (888) 818-7728. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We hope you had a great Mother's Day weekend. Last week, our video team put up a bunch of new videos, 9 to be exact. All were posts on Thursday and Friday. We love helping users get the most out of their alarm systems and smart home networks. Let's take a look at the new videos!

Updating the Firmware on a Lyric Alarm System's SiXFOB

Jarrett kicks things off by showing you how to update the firmware for a Honeywell SiXFOB Key Fob. This key fob is designed exclusively for use with the Honeywell Lyric Controller. Unlike most SiX Series devices, the SiXFOB needs to receive firmware updates manually. The Lyric should be running the latest firmware version before performing the update. Updating the firmware for the SiXFOB will ensure that it works as effectively as possible. Updating the firmware will affect any zones associated with the SiXFOB.

Including a Schlage Z-Wave Lock

The ever friendly and helpful Joe shows you how to include a Schlage Z-Wave Lock into your local Z-Wave network. Pairing your Z-Wave lock is necessary for getting the most out of the device. You need to do this to control the lock remotely and to use it with smart scenes. Pairing a lock with an alarm panel is often a great option. You can then use it with an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. Please note that you will need a monitoring plan with access to one of these services.

Excluding a Schlage Z-Wave Lock

Joe helps you some more by showing how to exclude your Schlage Z-Wave Lock from a Z-Wave network. This is an important step if you plan to transfer the lock from one Z-Wave hub to another. You should also do this before completing the initial pairing process. Many Z-Wave smart home devices are paired with Z-Wave networks before they even leave the factory for testing purposes. Clearing the lock first will ensure that you can pair it successfully.

Adding a Siren to the Qolsys Hardwire 16-F

Joe is back again, and this time he's gonna show you how to add a siren to a Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F. This is a wired to wireless converter that allows you to use hardwired sensors with a wireless 319.5 MHz system. The module was specifically designed with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus in mind. What's unique about the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is that it includes siren terminals and a built-in siren relay which can be controlled wirelessly by the panel. No external relay is needed for the connected siren, as long as the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 has a hardware RF PIC version 11.1.4 G2 or higher.

Powering the Honeywell Vista-20P

If you just can't get enough of Joe, then you're in luck! He will show you how to provide power to your Honeywell VISTA 20P Hardwired Security System. The panel receives power through two sources. Its primary power source is a plug-in transformer, specifically the Honeywell 1321. If the electricity goes out, then the system can remain powered on through its backup battery. We recommend using an UltraTech 1240 for this purpose. All of this equipment can be purchased from the Alarm Grid site.

How Alarm Systems Work

Hey look, it's Jorge! He's going to explain how alarm systems work. The centerpiece of every alarm system is the control panel. This panel receives signals from sensors that are used throughout the premises. There are sensors for letting the system know if a door or window is opened, if there is movement in the area, if glass is broken, if there is a fire, or really almost any troubling condition that warrants your attention. The system then responds based on the zone configuration and its current arming state.

The Tuxedo Touch - Not An AlarmNet Communicator

If you think the Tuxedo Touch WIFI is an AlarmNet Communicator, then you are sorely mistaken. Jorge is here to set the record straight and explain that the Tuxedo Touch is not a communicator. It is just a touchscreen keypad used with VISTA Series Systems. The keypad uses WIFI connectivity to transmit Z-Wave home automation signals to and from Total Connect 2.0. But you will still need a separate communicator for connecting your system with the AlarmNet Servers.

Programming Report Codes For a Self Monitoring Plan With Alarm Grid

Let's say you sign-up for a self-monitoring plan with Alarm Grid. Great! But since you are self-monitored, you don't need your system reporting out to a central monitoring station. Jorge will show you how to disable the reporting codes for your system so that it functions properly. This process is only necessary for self-monitored systems that use Total Connect 2.0. You do not need to disable report codes for Alarm.com Systems, since Alarm Grid can do it from their end.

Defaulting a Schlage Z-Wave Lock

Joe returns to tell you how to default a Schlage Z-Wave Lock. By performing a factory reset, the lock will be restored to its factory default settings. This will clear any Z-Wave settings, as well as any codes programmed for the device. You will need to re-add the lock to your Z-Wave network. You should check the programming sticker on the lock to find the default user codes. The programming sticker is found underneath the device's main cover.

Hi DIYers! We are excited to announce that the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus with support for legacy 319.5 MHz sensors and PowerG sensors is now available for just $399.99. This is significantly reduced from the previous price-tag of more than $500. Now is a great time to buy an IQ Panel 2 Plus!

The IQ Panel 2 Plus is one of the most advanced wireless all-in-one security systems on the market today. The system supports up to 128 wireless zones, and it serves as a fully functional Z-Wave Plus controller. It also offers advanced features like Bluetooth disarming, live streaming with Alarm.com Cameras, facial recognition, partitioning and more. This version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus supports both PowerG sensors and legacy 319.5 MHz sensors from Qolsys and Interlogix/GE. It is available in both Verizon LTE and AT&T LTE options. Both 319.5 MHz versions have been reduced in price to $399.99 effective as of now.

Please note that this price reduction only affects the 319.5 MHz versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. The 345 MHz versions (legacy Honeywell and legacy 2GIG) and the 433 MHz versions (legacy DSC) have retained their original pricing. These versions are also available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE variants. You can find those panels with the following links:

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz AT&T LTE
• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz Verizon LTE
• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz AT&T LTE
• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz Verizon LTE

We would also like to announce that the original IQ Panel 2 has been discontinued. It is no longer available for purchase, effective immediately. As a result, all of the Alarm Grid System Kits that included the original IQ Panel 2 have been updated to offer the IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz System instead. At this time, we are only offering kits with the 319.5 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. If you want the 345 MHz or 433 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, you will need to purchase the system individually.

Each IQ Panel 2 Plus System Kit includes a brand-new IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz System, Versa-GE Door and Window Contacts (3 or 10 depending on the kit), a single Qolsys IQ Motion-S Sensor, a power cable, a plug-in transformer, and a built-in LTE communicator (AT&T or Verizon). You can find these kits in the links below:

• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T 3-1 Kit
• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T 10-1 Kit
• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Verizon 3-1 Kit
• Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Verizon 10-1 Kit

If you have any questions about the IQ Panel 2 Plus, please reach out to us. The best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com, and we will respond back as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Last week was interesting for us, as we scrambled to get up some new content by the end of the week. We managed to upload seven new videos. This includes five from Joe, who was this week's MVP. We hope that you enjoy our latest videos and how they help you use your equipment.

Viewing an ADC-SVR122 Remotely

Joe explains how users can view video footage stored on an Alarm.com ADC-SVR122 Stream Video Recorder remotely. The ADC-SVR122 stores footage so that it can be viewed on Alarm.com. The footage can be viewed from Alarm.com, both through the website and through the mobile app. The ADC-SVR122 will need to be integrated with the user's Alarm.com account for this to work. The integration must be done from the Alarm.com website by choosing the option "Add Video Device". Up to eight (8) Alarm.com Cameras can be used with a single ADC-SVR122.

Excluding a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock

Joe teaches users how to exclude a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock from a Z-Wave network. There are a few different instances when you may want to exclude a Z-Wave lock. This step is important to perform before trying to the device to the network. Even if the lock is brand-new, it may have been previously paired with a network for factory testing purposes. You might also try excluding a lock and then re-adding it to the network as a possible troubleshooting step.

Factory Defaulting a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock

Joe demonstrates how to factory default a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock. Performing a factory reset is normally performed when a user inherits the lock from someone else and they want to start fresh with factory default settings. A user may also perform a factory default as a last ditch method for troubleshooting the device. Performing a factory default will clear all programmed user codes and remove all Z-Wave settings. The lock will need to be re-enrolled after performing the default.

Including a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock

Joe covers the process for including a Kwikset Z-Wave Lock into a Z-Wave network. This requires a Z-Wave controller or hub. By pairing a Z-Wave lock, you will be able to control it remotely from an interactive service platform on your smartphone. This is great if you ever need to let someone inside your home while they are away. You can then remotely lock the device after they leave. Z-Wave devices can also be set to activate based on a schedule or with certain predetermined events.

Glass Break Simulators

Joe talks about glass break simulators and how they are used. These devices will produce a sound that is specifically designed to activate glass break detectors. This is great for testing glass break sensors and making sure that they are detecting sounds and working properly. Most security equipment manufacturers have their own glass break simulators that they recommend for use with their equipment. Alarm Grid offers three (3) glass break simulators, which are the Honeywell FG701, the DSC AFT-100 and the Interlogix 5709C-W.

Carbon Monoxide Sensor Notifications from a Lyric via Apple HomeKit

Jorge discusses why a user will not receive specific carbon monoxide sensor notifications from Apple HomeKit when the CO sensor is used with their Lyric Alarm System. When HomeKit is used with the Lyric System, HomeKit will only provide specific notifications for burglary and intrusion zones. HomeKit will not provide specific alerts for life-safety zones. Instead, the user will only receive a General Lyric System Alert. That is why it is important to use Total Connect 2.0 alongside HomeKit. Unlike Apple HomeKit, Total Connect 2.0 will let you know exactly which zone was faulted, regardless of Response Type.

Programming Options Accessible Via Installer Code on the Lyric Alarm

In his triumphant return, Jarrett explains the programming options that can be accessed from the Installer Tools Menu on the Honeywell Lyric Controller. This menu is accessed using the system's Installer Code, which should be kept at its default of 4112. The Installer Tools Menu offers many options that allow the user to make changes to the system settings. This includes adding new sensors and configuring the communication path settings for the panel. You can also access Installer Tools to perform a factory default or to reset the Master Code to 1234.