DIY Security Systems Posts

We have a quick and easy blog post for you today, this time covering local zones on Honeywell Home and Resideo ProSeries Alarm Panels - the PROA7PLUS, PROA7PLUSC, PROA7, and PROA7C. Local zones cannot trigger intrusion alarms to alert the central monitoring station for emergency dispatch.

Almost anyone who gets a security system will want to get it monitored so that they can receive automatic emergency dispatch if an intrusion occurs while they are away. However, you might also have some zones of your home or office where you want a "local", on-site alert to activity, and you also want to have Total Connect 2.0 alerts set up for the zone, but you don't want the central station to be notified to an alarm that occurs from the zone. Today, we're sharing a tip for achieving that type of functionality for a zone on a ProSeries Panel.

One thing to note is that if you are familiar with the Response Types for the Honeywell Lyric, then many of the same "rules" apply. This makes perfect sense, as the Honeywell Lyric is the predecessor system to the still relatively new ProSeries Control Panels. But having said that, many of the Response Types found on the Lyric were never brought over to the ProSeries Panels. Maybe they will be introduced in a later ProSeries Firmware Update, but we have no way of knowing if that will happen. Regardless, it can be a bit more challenging to set up "local" zones on the ProSeries Systems due to their more limited selection of Response Types. Nonetheless, we have a cool tip that we would like to discuss.

If you have a zone that you want to produce a local Chime and/or Voice Annunciation at your ProSeries Panel, as well as any of your PROWLTOUCH or PROWLTOUCHC Touchscreen Keypads, but you also don't want the zone to be able to cause any alarms or alert the central station, then you can set the Device Type to "Other" and the Response Type to "Garage Monitor". But before you set the Device Type to "Other", go and set the Chime setting first. The reason why you want to set the Chime first is because that setting becomes locked and unable to be changed after you set the Device Type to "Other". Whatever Chime setting you have set will be locked in and applied. By setting the Chime first, you can have a custom Chime setting, rather than the default option of Disabled when you set a "Garage Monitor" Response Type. With "Garage Monitor" set, your panel and keypads will announce the faulted zone and make whatever Chime sound is set for local alerts. You can also set up notifications from Total Connect 2.0 for this zone. Meanwhile, you can rest easy in knowing that this Garage Monitor Zone will never be able to cause an alarm on your system or result in the central station being notified. This is truly a local zone with the ultimate customization!

This ties-in with some other general tips. When you set the Device Type as "Other", all of the Response Types become available, though there are some PROSIX Sensors that may not allow for this type of programming. Also, the Device Type of "Other" is not spoken aloud when set. In other words, if you have Zone Descriptor 1 set as "Bedroom", the panel won't speak "Bedroom Other" if you have "Other" as the Device Type. It will just say "Bedroom", and nothing more. This is good to know, as if you're ever having trouble getting the desired Response Type to be made available, then setting "Other" as the Device Type can be the trick to getting the option you want. Just be careful when working with certain types of PROSIX Sensors, as they can be a bit more restrictive.

Do you have any topics you would like to see us cover on the ProSeries Panels, or on any other of our favorite security systems? Leave a comment down below, and let us know. We might just discuss it in a future blog. As for now, we hope that this simple trick helps you get the most out of your Honeywell and Resideo ProSeries Systems. Local zones are really useful in certain situations, and knowing little tips and tricks like this one that we covered today can really open up the door for more ways on using your security system. Anyway, that's all for today. Please stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more security news and helpful tips on using your system. We're always happy to help, and you can expect more great content from us coming soon!

Alarm Grid has learned that its supplier for Honeywell Home and Resideo ProSeries Panels will have ProSeries Alarm Systems pre-installed with the latest Firmware Version 3.591.92.0 in-stock and ready to ship starting on June 28th. This is is great news for anyone considering these systems!

For reference, the ProSeries Security Panels include the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS, the Resideo PROA7PLUSC, the Honeywell Home PROA7, and the Resideo PROA7C. When these systems were first released, they did not include local programming support, meaning that all system programming, including the enrollment of new sensors, had to be completed remotely by the user's alarm monitoring company. It wasn't until System Firmware Version 3.591.92.0 that Local Programming Mode became available, allowing end-users to program their ProSeries Systems themselves. In addition to Local Programming Mode, the update also introduced support for additional PROSIX Series Sensors, common lobby partition support, local alarm mode, severe weather alerts from Total Connect 2.0, and more. If you would like more information on Firmware Update 3.591.92.0, we strongly encourage you to view this blog on the subject.

It is important to note that just because you order a ProSeries Alarm Panel on or after June 28th does not necessarily mean that the system you receive will have Firmware Version 3.591.92.0 pre-installed. It is possible that our supplier may still have older stock to get rid of first, and they may not begin shipping panels with Firmware Version 3.591.92.0 pre-installed until their older stock has been depleted. We have no control over which stock they decide to ship, so we cannot predict whether the panel you receive will be on the latest firmware or older firmware. You can check the firmware version for your ProSeries Panel after it has been powered on by clicking on the three (3) horizontal bars menu button on the home screen, and then selecting Tools, entering the system's Installer Code (default 4112), selecting System Information, and then clicking on the General field. The panel's installed Firmware Version will be displayed on the screen. Remember, you need Version 3.591.92.0 or higher for local programming support.

If you receive an older ProSeries Alarm Panel without the latest firmware, then it is not the end of the world. Once you get the system activated for alarm monitoring service with Alarm Grid, or with another company, the firmware can then be pushed down over-the-air (OTA) to the ProSeries Panel. Please note that this will require an active internet communication pathway for the ProSeries Panel. The Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS and Resideo PROA7PLUSC can readily connect with a WIFI network for this purpose, thanks to the Honeywell Home PROWIFIZW Module that comes pre-installed inside these systems.

But if you have a PROA7 or a PROA7C, then you must add a PROWIFIZW or a PROWIFI to get the system connected to the internet before a firmware update can be sent down. Keep in mind that a ProSeries System cannot receive a firmware update across cellular. This means that it will not be possible to send a firmware update if the ProSeries Panel is using a Honeywell Home PROLTE-A or Honeywell Home PROLTE-V as its only communicator. You must add one of the aforementioned IP communicators and connect the system to a WIFI network for the firmware update to be sent down. Additionally, the system must be activated for monitoring, must have AC power, must have a battery present iin the panel, and must not have an alarm memory condition at the time the firmware update is sent down. If these conditions aren't met the process will fail.

If you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer and you need to request a firmware update for your ProSeries Security System, then you should email us at support@alarmgrid.com to get started. Remember that our business hours for checking and responding to incoming emails run from 9 am to 8 pm ET M-F. If you have any thoughts or personal experiences with the ProSeries Panels from Honeywell Home and Resideo, then please share them in a comment down below. We would love to hear what you have to say. And remember to keep checking the Alarm Grid Security Blog for more news and updates coming soon!

It's time for the Alarm Grid Video Recap! There are five (5) new videos this week. For the first time in awhile, I did not appear in any videos. I'll hopefully be back next week. Instead, Jorge really took over, doing four (4) videos. Julia also made a rare video appearance. On with the show!

2GIG Edge: Pair the 2GIG PAD1-345

Jorge shows you how to pair the 2GIG PAD1-345 Keypad with the 2GIG Edge. The PAD1-345 is a very basic keypad device that has been around since the days of the 2GIG GC2. As a very limited keypad, the PAD1-345 can be used to arm/disarm and trigger system panics. The 2GIG PAD1-345 cannot be used to bypass sensors, and it also does not display system status. Additionally, the PAD1-345 can only control the system partition that is has been assigned, and it cannot "switch" to other partitions.

2GIG Edge: Finding the IMEI Number

Jorge shows you how to find the IMEI Number on a 2GIG Edge Alarm System. When working with a 2GIG Edge, the IMEI Number may also be referred to as the panel's Serial Number. This is an important piece of information that you need when activating the system for alarm monitoring service. It is associated with the panel's built-in cellular communicator, which is registered with Alarm.com as part of the activation process. All outbound signals for the 2GIG Edge are sent through Alarm.com.

2GIG Edge: Connect to WIFI

Jorge explains how to connect the 2GIG Edge to a WIFI network. The 2GIG Edge can use WIFI connectivity as a secondary pathway for communicating with Alarm.com. However, WIFI cannot be the only communication pathway, as Alarm.com requires that a cellular communication path is configured and set up with their servers. Most users will configure the WIFI pathway anyway, as most monitoring providers will not charge extra for internet monitoring, and almost all homes and offices have WIFI readily available.

2GIG Edge: Sending a Cell Test

Jorge teaches you how to perform a cell test on a 2GIG Edge Security Panel. A cell test is performed at the end of the system's activation process, as a way of verifying communication with the Alarm.com servers. You may also perform a cell test at any time after the activation to ensure that the system is still communicating properly. As part of the cell test, the system checks that it can successfully send signals to the Alarm.com servers, and also successfully receive incoming signals from Alarm.com.

2GIG GC2: Updating Firmware Using Updater Cable (UPCBL2)

Julia teaches you how to update the 2GIG GC2 using the 2GIG UPCBL2 Updater Cable. Normally, the easiest way to update a GC2 is to activate the system for monitoring service, and then push down an over-the-air (OTA) firmware update from Alarm.com. But if you have an old GC2 that is not on a high enough firmware version to get connected with Alarm.com, then you must update using the Updater Cable or the 2GIG UPDV Easy Updater Tool. Alarm Grid also has a 2GIG GC2 Firmware Updates Page that you can check out.

We want to inform 2GIG Edge users, especially those who may install their own system, to a special warning put out by 2GIG. The warning identifies a potential wiring mistake that could result in permanent damage to the 2GIG Edge Alarm Panel. The entire warning put out by 2GIG can be seen here.

The 2GIG Edge receives primary power from the 2GIG AC1 Plug-In Transformer. This transformer is rated at 14VDC, 1.7A. You must add your own alarm wire to complete the connection. Since DC power is being used, proper polarity must be observed, both at the transformer and at the panel. At the transformer, the red wire should connect to positive (+) terminal, and the black wire should connect to the negative (-) terminal.

Then, at the panel, the red wire for positive (+) power should connect to the DC IN+ terminal. The black wire for negative (-) power should connect to the DC IN- Terminal. Or alternatively, if you are using a Honeywell LT-Cable, then you can simply plug the barrel connector in the DC IN Barrel Port. Following this process correctly will help ensure that you do not accidentally damage your 2GIG Edge.

Where the concern arises is that there are actually two (2) sets of terminal blocks on the 2GIG Edge Panel for connecting wires. And unfortunately, 2GIG didn't exactly make it super clear as to which set of labels goes with which terminal block. The best way to figure it out is in the fact that one set of terminal blocks is shorter than the other terminal block set. The set for providing power is the smaller terminal block with six (6) terminals, not the larger terminal block set with eight (8) terminals. You can see this in the image above.

The DC IN+ and DC IN- Terminals, along with the DC IN Barrel Port, are identified as the Power In Terminals. Those are the ports you want to use when providing power, whether you are using traditional alarm wire and you use DC IN+ and DC IN- (making sure to observe polarity) or you have a Honeywell LT-Cable and simply plug into the DC IN Barrel Port. If you do use DC IN+ and DC IN-, then make absolutely sure you are connecting to the terminal block with only six (6) terminals.

The potential problem arises in the other, larger terminal block with eight (8) terminals. This is known as the DCOUT+ Terminal Bock. And to make matters confusing the top two (2) wire terminals on this set have names that may make you think they are used for providing primary power to the system. But in reality, connecting primary system power here could seriously damage the system. These two (2) misleading wire terminals are labeled GND and AUX+, but these are output terminals.

Simply put, you do NOT want to use these terminals for providing system power. Again, the easiest way to avoid doing this is to make sure you are using the smaller terminal block with only six (6) wire terminals, NOT the larger terminal block with eight (8) wire terminals. Of course, if you use a Honeywell LT-Cable and the panel's DC IN Barrel Port, then this isn't really a potential hazard. There is only one barrel port and no way to mix it up.

The lesson of the day here is to be very careful when you are connecting power wires to the 2GIG Edge. Use the DC IN+ and DC IN- Terminals on the smaller block with six (6) terminals. The red positive (+) wire should go to DC IN+, and the black negative (-) wire should go to DC IN-. Or use a Honeywell LT-Cable and the DC IN Barrel Port. Do NOT use the GND and AUX+ Terminals on the larger block with eight (8) terminals. Making that mistake could potentially damage your 2GIG Edge System. Always be safe and smart, and make the correct wiring connections!

If you have any thoughts on the 2GIG Edge, or if you have any personal experience in wiring the system for power, then please feel free to share what you would like in a comment down below. We would love to hear from you! And remember to stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more tips and security news coming soon.

After much waiting and anticipation, Resideo has delivered the firmware update we have all been wanting for ProSeries Panels. ProSeries System Update Version 3.591.92.0 for PROA7PLUS, PROA7PLUSC, PROA7, and PROA7C introduces local programming mode, as well as other system enhancements.

First, we want to cover how to receive the update. Only monitored ProSeries Systems can be updated. You must have your ProSeries System online and connected with the AlarmNet servers in order for the over-the-air (OTA) update to go through successfully. The system must be connected with a WIFI network, as the update cannot be sent across cellular. Remember that while the PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC both come with integrated WIFI network cards, the PROA7 and PROA7C can only connect to WIFI if a PROWIFIZW or PROWIFI has been added separately.

As a one-time event Alarm Grid is planning to send down the new firmware update to all its monitored customers with ProSeries Panels sometime in the coming days. This OTA update is being done in one mass shot to try to update as many users as possible all at once. No special action should be required on your part. Just have your ProSeries Panel powered on and connected to WIFI. While this process isn't perfect, and there will inevitably be some users who miss out on the update for one reason or another, this is the best way for us to ensure that as many end-users as possible have their panels updated. Remember, we can only update ProSeries Systems that are actively monitored by Alarm Grid. If you have a different monitoring provider, then ask them to help you update your system.

If your automatic OTA update fails for whatever reason, or if you didn't have your panel ready at the time of the mass OTA update, then you can request that the update be sent down manually. Alarm Grid customers can email support@alarmgrid.com to request a manual OTA update. Please make sure that you have your ProSeries Panel powered on and connected to WIFI when we push down the OTA update, or else the update process will fail. Our support hours run from 9 am to 8 pm ET M-F, so keep that in mind when contacting us. Furthermore, we cannot push down a manual OTA update to your panel if you receive alarm monitoring service from a different provider. If you are monitored by a different company, then you should instead reach out to your provider for further assistance.

There are some big highlights here in ProSeries Firmware Update 3.591.92.0. Obviously, the elephant in the room is the introduction of local programming mode. Previously, users were forced to have all system programming completed remotely by their monitoring provider. This included basic system setup tasks like enrolling sensors and configuring zone settings. Not only will the introduction of local programming make activations easier for professional technicians, but it will also empower end-users and give them greater control over their systems. This is a huge deal, as it officially makes the ProSeries Panels DIY-friendly alarm systems.

There are other major introductions in ProSeries Firmware Update 3.591.92.0, though they are likely to be overshadowed by the introduction of local programming. Nonetheless, we are still very excited about these smaller, but still important, introductions. For one, there is a boost to system partitioning, as a common lobby partition option is now available. You can set Partition 3 or Partition 4 as the common lobby, depending on how many partitions are being used. The highest number partition will always be the common lobby, and you must have at least 3 partitions in order to enable the common lobby feature.

There are some principles to keep in mind regarding the lobby function. You cannot set both Partition 3 and Partition 4 as the common lobby. Only one can be the common lobby partition at any given time. The way that the common lobby partition works is that disarming any other partition will also disarm the common lobby partition. Additionally, if ALL other partitions are armed, then the common lobby will also automatically arm. The only way you can arm/disarm the common lobby partition independently is if all the other system partitions are in an armed state. All system users have authority over the common lobby partition. Finally, any 24-hour zones assigned to the common lobby partition will sound on keypads of all partitions, but you can only silence alarms and troubles from these zones using the common partition keypad. Any faulted zone in the common lobby partition will be automatically bypassed when the common lobby partition is armed, even if it is armed automatically due to all other partitions being armed.

The ProSeries Firmware Update 3.591.92.0 brings support for some upcoming PROSiX Sensors that we hope to have available on our site very soon. Specifically, we are talking about support for the PROSiX Wireless Repeater (PROSIXRPTR) and support for the PROSiX Wireless Heat (PROSIXHEAT).

A local alarm mode is now supported, meaning you can trigger a localized system alarm, complete with siren, but without the system reporting out. This can be good for scaring away on-site intruders, while also resting easy in knowing that the authorities will not be sent to the premises. This is basically how the system behaves if an intrusion alarm occurs on a system that is not being monitored. When local alarm mode is enabled, all communication to AlarmNet is halted, including access to Total Connect 2.0 features.

The panel will now provide severe weather alerts. This feature requires that the system is set up with Total Connect 2.0 and the corresponding weather package. Remember, this is only possible if the system is monitored and set up with Total Connect 2.0. Ask your monitoring company about receiving weather alerts on the panel.

If you are using the system in Canada, you can now use the PROTLE-CN Communicator. This communicator may be carried by Alarm Grid in the future. Alarm Grid is not provided with the option to sell the Resideo and Honeywell Home lineup of Canadian communicators, however, we can get potential customers in touch with a Canadian distributor. Once you obtain a PROLTE-CN elsewhere, then we will be able to set it up for monitoring.

On the PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC only, you can now stream the live video feed for Total Connect 2.0 IP Cameras and SkyBell Video Doorbell Cameras from both the Panel, as well as any PROWLTOUCH or PROWLTOUCHC Keypad. The PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC also now both support disarm photos from the PROWLTOUCH and PROWLTOUCHC Keypads. Again, these two (2) features are for use with the PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC only.

For all ProSeries Panels, there is backlight timeout improvement. You can now set the backlight timeout for a ProSeries Panel or a PROWLTOUCH/PROWLTOUCHC Keypad to Disable and have the screen go completely dark. This is instead of going to the "inactivity screen" that shows the weather, time & date, 1st thermostat temperature, partition arming status, panic icons, and CELL/WIFI/AC/BLE status.

Other updates include:

• You can now have Partition 1 Disarm automatically when a Z-Wave Door Lock is UNLOCKED.
• There are improvements to the 7-Day Z-Wave Thermostat Schedule on Total Connect 2.0.
• There is now optional device supervision for PROWLTOUCH & PROWLTOUCHC Keypads.
• The PROSIX Wireless Technology is now more accurate in displaying signal strength and remaining battery life.
• There is now improvement in enrollment range for PROSIXSMOKEV and PROSIXHEATV.
• There is now improved multi-language display on the PROSIXLCDKP Keypads.
• If you use a cellular communicator in Canada then you may notice Cellular Roaming Improvement.
• Updates to the ProSeries Cyber Security.
• The PROINDMV Indoor Motion Viewer and Z-Wave Devices are now supported during the AlarmNet360 Panel Replacement Process. This is only for the PROA7PLUS and PROA7PLUSC.

Are you excited about this new update? What do you think about local programming finally being available for the ProSeries Panels. Is there some other new feature that you're also really eager to check out. Let us know in a comment down below. And stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more news and updates coming soon.

Alarm Grid is here with another video recap! This recap marks the return of Jorge to our videos after a long absence. Each video in this week's edition covers the 2GIG Edge, and we feel like we have some really helpful content to share with you. Anyway, let's get started with the video recap!

2GIG Edge: Activating on Alarm com

Jorge shows you how to activate the 2GIG Edge System with the Alarm.com service. Getting the 2GIG Edge set up with Alarm.com is an important part of getting the system monitored. All system alarms and other notifications are sent to the Alarm.com servers before being passed on to a central station and/or the end-user via text and/or email, depending upon the user's alarm monitoring plan. The 2GIG Edge comes ready to activate with Alarm.com using its built-in LTE cellular communicator. You can also set up optional IP connectivity using the panel's integrated WIFI card. Adding WIFI allows the use of the 2GIG Edge Remote Keypad as well as the Live Streaming feature for Alarm.com cameras.

2GIG Edge: Deleting a Zone

Jorge teaches you how to delete a zone on the 2GIG Edge. Zones are never really deleted from the 2GIG Edge. The system always has 100 wireless zones. But whether all of them are currently active or not is another story. When someone talks about "deleting" a zone, they mean clearing out the zone settings so that the zone can be used with a new sensor instead. This is normally done if you run out of zones and need to free one up, or if you simply want to stop using a sensor with the 2GIG Edge, or need to replace a sensor on the system.

2GIG Edge: Deleting Door/Window Sensors

I show you how to delete a door/window sensor from a 2GIG Edge. The process for deleting a door/window sensor from the Edge is the same as any other sensor type. You need to enter into zone programming, select the zone associated with the sensor you want to clear from the system, and then tell the Edge to reset that zone. The zone would then need to be reprogrammed from scratch in order to support the same sensor, or a new sensor programmed in its place. This could be another compatible door/window sensor, or any other type of compatible sensor.

2GIG Edge: Changing the Master Code

I show you how to change the Master Code on your 2GIG Edge Security System. The Master Code is the system's primary code for disarming, and also arming if Quick Arm is disabled. Changing this code is very important for security purposes, and it is one of the very first things you will do after getting the 2GIG Edge System. The 2GIG Edge default Master Code is 1111, and you will certainly want to change it to prevent a savvy intruder from trying that code to disarm your system.

2GIG Edge: Programming a Zone

Jorge shows you how to program a zone on your 2GIG Edge. Programming zones is an important task for setting up the system. This is the act of assigning sensors to empty system zone slots. You must configure the zone settings so that the system responds as intended when the sensor is faulted or activated. You will also set various settings for the zone, like its chime sound, whether or not RF supervision will be used, whether the system will report if the zone causes an alarm, and even the zone name.

2GIG Edge: Bypassing Zones

I teach you how to bypass zones on the 2GIG Edge. Bypassing zones is the act of telling the system to temporarily ignore specified zones so that they do not cause any system response when activated. Later, when you are ready to use the bypassed sensors again, you can then un-bypass them so that they are again used with the system like normal. This is a good alternative, and honestly much quicker and easier than having to delete zones entirely and then reprogram the zones from scratch.

With ISC West 2021 quickly approaching, we thought it would be nice to take a quick look at various security manufacturers to speculate about what they might be presenting. Keep in mind, this is purely speculation. None of this is guaranteed, it's just our guess as what we might see.

Before you read about the various security and smart home automation offerings that we might see, make sure to check out our earlier post on the ISC West 2021 Health and Safety Guidelines, if you haven't already. Remember that this year's ISC West runs from Monday, July 19th through Wednesday, July 21st at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, NV. With that out of the way, let's begin discussing some manufacturers.

Resideo

Resideo will certainly want to showcase its new system, the PROA7PLUS. We would expect to see both the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS and the virtually identical Resideo PROA7PLUSC showcased prominently at ISC West 2021. You will also likely see its accompanying hardware, including the PROLTE-A and PROLTE-V Communicators, the PROTAKEOVER Legacy Receiver Module, and the PROSIX Series Encrypted Wireless Sensors. All of this aforementioned equipment is already available for purchase.

As for new products, we would be surprised if we didn't see Resideo releasing a new lineup of security cameras, perhaps under the Honeywell Home brand. With the Honeywell IPCAM-OC1 Outdoor Camera being discontinued, the selection of Total Connect 2.0 Cameras is pretty weak compared to the selection of Alarm.com Cameras. As such, a user getting security cameras as part of their system is more likely to choose an Alarm.com System than a Resideo System that is being used with Total Connect 2.0. We're sure Resideo wants to change that, so it would be disappointing if we don't see some new Resideo Cameras.

Lastly, we have heard rumors of a new hardwired system that would essentially replace the Honeywell VISTA Series. This lineup of wired panels is rumored to be named the Honeywell Home PROH8PLUS, and it would be a fully hybrid system able to support both hardwired sensors and wireless sensors, possibly using the PROTAKEOVER Module Legacy Receiver. While there's nothing inherently wrong with VISTA Alarm Panels, we might see Resideo updating their technology a bit, and bringing the hardwired selection lineup to the next level.

Nortek & 2GIG

From what we can tell, Nortek is very pleased with their 2GIG Edge Security System, and it's a fair bet that that 2GIG Edge Alarm Panel will be the main highlight of the 2GIG and Nortek Booth at ISC West 2021. And it's rightfully so, as the Edge is a highly advanced alarm panel with great features like facial recognition and Bluetooth disarming. What remains to be seen if Nortek will decide to roll-out a lineup of 2GIG Edge-exclusive encrypted sensors, perhaps to break away from the existing 2GIG eSeries Sensors that work with the Edge and the older GC2e and GC3e. However, we haven't actually heard anything about new 2GIG Edge Sensors, so that is just pure speculation. That being said, you can bet on 2GIG to heavily feature the 2GIG Edge Alarm System in their booth. If you haven't seen it an action yet, then ISC West 2021 figures to be a great opportunity. The 2GIG Edge and its accessories are currently available for purchase from Alarm Grid.

Qolsys

Qolsys has been secretly working away on some new alarm panels, and we figure ISC West 2021 to be right opportunity for Qolsys to unveil them to the public. The company needs to make a big splash to keep up with household names like Honeywell Home and 2GIG. We can expect to see the new Qolsys Budget Panel, the Qolsys IQ Hub, which we have been expecting for quite some time.

This may also be the chance for Qolsys to unveil their big new flagship alarm panel, the Qolsys IQ Panel 4. We are expecting the IQ Panel 4 to be a tremendous juggernaut in the home security industry, as the new alarm system will boast a Snapdragon Chipset running Android 9 Software, and come complete with an 8MP front-facing camera, all-new lifestyle automation pages, and oodles of great features. There's a chance Qolsys might be secretive and keep the IQ Panel 4 tucked away, but we would be pretty sad if we don't get to see it at ISC West 2021. We are hopeful that the Qolsys IQ Panel 4, Qolsys IQ Hub, and Qolsys IQ Router will be made available later this year.

DSC

Digital Security Controls (DSC) has been at the forefront of Canadian Home and Commercial Security for years. But now that both DSC and Qolsys are under the Johnson Controls banner, we may see considerably less of the DSC brand out in the limelight. As security systems are being made "sexier" and flashier to fit-in with a modern home, a bulky wired alarm system like the DSC PowerSeries NEO just isn't suitable for most residential applications. We don't expect DSC to be completely absent from ISC West 2021, but don't be surprised if Johnson Controls is putting Qolsys out on center stage, while DSC may remain more in the background as more of a commercial security option. The PowerSeries NEO and the existing DSC Iotega are both candidates to be featured in ISC West 2021. We have not yet received any word on possible "new" DSC equipment that may be featured.

Alarm.com

Alarm.com always has a prominent showing at ISC West, and we don't expect this year to be any different. However, we aren't really sure what to expect from Alarm.com, if anything new. It's possible that Alarm.com might try to make ISC West 2021 more of a quiet showing. It's likely that the Alarm.com Smart House will return, allowing users to interact with the latest smart home automation and video surveillance offerings from Alarm.com. The ADC platform strives to be a leader in terms of home automation, and they will likely use this ISC West to showcase their complete array of offerings and how their equipment can be used together to create a complete smart home. We are also regularly pleased with all the Alarm.com Video Camera offerings, so it's fair to expect their cameras to make an appearance. We aren't necessarily expecting any new cameras, but we definitely anticipate seeing great devices like the ADC-V523, ADC,V622-WELL, ADC-V723, and ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera.

Z-Wave Alliance

You can always bet on seeing the Z-Wave Alliance tucked away in the back corners of the ISC West Showroom Floor. Z-Wave wireless communication has secured itself as the leading protocol in smart home automation, and it continues to dominate for good reason. ISC West 2021, figures to be a huge opportunity for Z-Wave 700-Series Technology to really present itself to the public and showcase its rich capabilities. Z-Wave 700-Series, also being called Z-Wave Plus V2, promised extended wireless range, and a longer battery life of at least ten (10) years. Z-Wave Plus V2 sensors are also required to be built on the Z-Wave S2 Security Protocol, thereby making them more secure than most Z-Wave 500-Series devices.

Of course, the Alarm Grid team will be returning to ISC West 2021, ready to post about the latest security offerings from all the major brands. Be sure to keep-up with the Alarm Grid Blog if you can't make it to ISC West 2021 yourself. We will let you know the latest news for Resideo, Honeywell Home, 2GIG, Qolsys, and more as we attend the event in Las Vegas, NV. Stay tuned for more ISC West 2021, especially as we get closer to the even on July 19th through July 21st. We're super excited, so get ready for more content coming soon.

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.

Update 12/30/21: The 2GIG GC3e has been discontinued and is no longer available. The 2GIG Edge w/ AT&T LTE or the 2GIG Edge w/ Verizon LTE have replaced it.

In an effort to clear out existing stock, the 2GIG GC3e Alarm Panel is now available at the bargain price of $189.99. This is an excellent chance to get a modern and reliable alarm panel for your home or business at a super low price. Act quickly, because supplies will run out very soon!

We announced earlier this month that the 2GIG GC3e was discontinued. However, due to existing stock, the GC3e Panel is effectively back from the dead for one final run. Once the limited stock runs out, the 2GIG GC3e will be discontinued forever. Room needs to be made for newer panels, so we're offering the 2GIG GC3e for the low price of $189.99. This is a rare opportunity to get a great alarm panel to build around. It can certainly fulfill all of your security and smart home automation needs once you get it set up and running!

The GC3e is fantastic for alarm monitoring. Just add either a 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator or a 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator, and you will be able to connect the GC3e with the Alarm.com Servers for monitoring service. Since the 2GIG GC3e already has an internal WIFI card, adding the cellular communicator will make it into a dual-path system that will stay monitored even if one path goes down or becomes unavailable. Alarm.com requires cellular connectivity, so you will need a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication, such as an Alarm Grid Gold Plan (Self or Full).

Although the 2GIG GC3e doesn't support more advanced features like Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming, the GC3e does support the robust lineup of 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. You can also supplement those encrypted sensors with non-encrypted sensors from the 2GIG 345 MHz Series and the Honeywell 5800 Series for good measure. The panel also has an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller so that you can start building a smart home network to make your life more convenient.

Overall, the 2GIG GC3e is an outstanding choice if you want more of a simple, no-frills panel that is still unmistakably modern and offers all the remote access and function through Alarm.com. If you do want something more advanced, than the 2GIG GC3e's effective replacement, the 2GIG Edge is available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE variants. Both the GC3e and the Edge connect with the same Alarm.com platform, and both offer the same sensor compatibility. The main benefit to going with the Edge is that you get access to some more advanced features, such as the aforementioned Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming. If you don't mind missing out on those features, then the 2GIG GC3e is basically just as good. Both systems feature very similar menus and user interfaces (UIs), so if you know one, then you pretty much already know the other!

In addition, we are also offering special pricing on 2GIG GC3e System Kits. Each kit includes a cellular communicator for getting the system monitored a Honeywell LT-Cable for providing power, one (1) 2GIG PIR1e-345 Motion Sensor, and either three (3) or ten (10) VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contact Sensors. Just decide whether you want AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE, and also whether you want three (3) door and window sensors or ten (10) door and window sensors. Then find the corresponding kit below. Hurry, before time runs out!

• 2GIG GC3e 3-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 10-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 3-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 10-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE

Remember, once supplies of the 2GIG GC3e run out, then the system is gone forever. If you have any questions about the GC3e, or any of the other security systems on our website, or if you want to speak with a security system expert who can help you build the perfect setup for your home or business, then please do not hesitate to send an email to our dedicated team at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here to check your emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Whether you go with the 2GIG GC3e, its replacement, the 2GIG Edge, or a different system entirely, we will be there to help you every step of the way. Thank you for reading the Alarm Grid Blog, and we will be back with more news and promotions real soon!

Being in the alarm industry, we get to test out some of the newest security systems first-hand. Today, we will briefly discuss three juggernauts in the DIY security realm - the 2GIG Edge, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS, and explain why they can all succeed.

Whenever you have multiple companies all putting their best offerings forward to compete in the same field, there is usually the expectation that there will be at least one winner, but also at least one loser. However, in this playing field of three wireless alarm panels, it really appears as though each company has put its best offering forward and presented something distinctly unique that can stand out and succeed in this competitive industry. Simply put, all three of these systems are winners. It was rough getting here at times. There were some mistakes and growing pains along the way. Some were really bad. We can definitely say that it took some perseverance, but we reached a point where our three most prominent security system manufacturers - 2GIG, Qolsys, and Honeywell Home - have all hit their strides. It really is a fantastic sight to behold.

Today, we're not doing an in-depth compare and contrast of these three great systems, nor are we going to provide a definitive "ranking" of these systems. Maybe that can happen another time. What we are going to give you today is just a look at one (1) feature or capability for each system that is not possible for the other two. That is a major reason why we believe all three of these systems will thrive - they each offer something that you aren't going to find or be able to achieve with their biggest competitors. In other words, each system we're discussing today has an important competitive advantage that should keep it relevant for quite some time. Also, note that we're focusing on the positive aspects today. This isn't a wish list, and we're also not going to pick apart these systems to point out any minor flaws or shortcomings. This is just a chance for us to talk about something we like about each system and why we think it's a benefit. Anyway, let's get started. Here is why the 2GIG Edge, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS can all win.

2GIG Edge - Facial Recognition Arming/Disarming

Our impression of the 2GIG Edge is that Nortek really wanted to bring the alarm industry to the future. The system is loaded with advanced features and functions that certainly work to turn heads and bring the wow factor. None of those features more so than the panel's facial recognition arming and disarming capability. Sure, the IQ Panel 2 Plus also has its own facial recognition capabilities, but their system just generates an email from Alarm.com letting you know that the panel didn't recognize the face the last time someone disarmed. Only with the 2GIG Edge can you have the front panel camera scan your face and automatically arm or disarm the system, all without needing to enter a code. Facial recognition arming comes in handy if the Quick Arm feature (Q113) is disabled in order to provide arming/disarming logs. By default, this feature is enabled, which means that the system can be armed simply by pressing the Arm Stay or Arm Away button. This is convenient, but in some circumstances, such as for a business, you may want to know which user is arming and disarming your system, as well as when the system is being armed and disarmed.

The facial recognition feature of the 2GIG Edge differs from the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus in another way. With the Qolsys panel, all of the heavy lifting is done by Alarm.com. The facial profile and recognition processing all occur on the Alarm.com servers. With the 2GIG Edge, the user's facial profile is stored locally on the panel, and facial recognition processing also takes place locally. This means your facial biometric information stays safe within your own network and is never sent out into the cloud. If you're concerned about keeping your facial biometric information private, then this is very important!

On top of that, the feature works shockingly well and consistently when set up properly, and unless you have an identical twin or a doppelganger hanging around, it's not a security risk in any way. This is the kind of feature that you brag about to your friends, as it's actually cool. Plus, once you get used to it and learn how to position your face just right, the feature is super convenient as well. Being able to arm or disarm your system while your hands are full is something you will absolutely appreciate at some point or another. Manufacturers are always looking for ways to futurize their alarm systems. Well, the 2GIg Edge has done exactly that with its facial recognition feature. We recommend checking our prior blog post dedicated to 2GIG Edge Facial Recognition to learn more.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus - PowerG Sensor Range

As the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus is the oldest security system on this list, features that were once exclusive and unique have since been replicated by their competition. That being said, one area where the IQ2+ still reigns supreme is in the wireless range of its PowerG Sensors. With a range of approximately 2,000 feet when used with the IQ2+, you just can't go wrong. Sure, that listed range is assuming a best-case scenario in an open-air environment, with no large metal objects or other obstacles around to cause interference. Still, it blows the other manufacturers out of the water. While we haven't done any of our own testing (that may be a fun experiment for a future blog), the reports we hear from customers seem to indicate that PowerG Sensors on the IQ2+ do indeed offer a noticeably longer transmitting range than what can be achieved with the other panels on this list. We have heard multiple stories of users who have managed to get PowerG Sensors to work in areas such as warehouses and storage facilities where wireless sensors were thought to be completely unviable. If that wasn't enough, there is also the DSC PG9920 PowerG Repeater, which boosts the theoretical maximum wireless range to a distance of up to 4,000 feet!

While all of this doesn't really matter much for most users, as most users don't really need a sensor to work from 2,000+ feet away, the users who do benefit from the extended wireless range find it to be a complete game-changer. Just imagine, an installation that was once only possible with a super complex hardwired polling loop panel can now be achieved wirelessly with the IQ Panel 2 Plus! Not to mention that the PowerG Sensors offer some of the very best protection we have seen, with 128-bit AES encryption and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) Technology. We're a bit surprised other manufacturers haven't followed suit and offered something comparable to PowerG. It's not to say that their alternative sensor offerings (e.g. Resideo PROSIX and SiX Series Sensors, 2GIG eSeries Sensors) aren't good devices in their own right, but the DSC PowerG Sensors are still at the top of the food chain... at least for now. As a result, there are still occasional installations where our only option is to recommend the IQ Panel 2 Plus with PowerG Sensors. It's totally cool though, as the IQ2+ remains a great panel that is loaded with tremendous features.

Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS - IP-Only Monitoring Option

We have an honorable mention with the PROA7PLUS. Namely, it's the only one of these three systems with replaceable components, meaning that you won't need to replace the entire panel if something like its WIFI & Z-Wave card or its added cellular communicator becomes damaged. While replaceable components are nice to have, they don't necessarily sell panels like the ability to monitor across internet protocol (IP) only. Although we love getting customers on our Gold Plan, and we can talk about the benefits of cellular monitoring until we're blue in the face, the fact remains that there are some customers who just want reliable monitoring service at a low price. We see it all the time - a customer just wants no-frills monitoring service to get a homeowner's insurance discount and to provide a basic layer of protection over their household. To them, the extra cost associated with cellular or dual-path monitoring isn't worth the benefit of their system staying monitored during internet outages. All we can do is try to give these customers what they want - an alarm panel that will allow them to keep their monitoring costs down. That is what they get with the PROA7PLUS, as it is the only one of these three systems that supports IP-only monitoring.

Technically, it's not the doing of the panel that makes IP-only monitoring possible, but rather it's the monitoring platform. The other panels on this list connect with Alarm.com, which mandates that cellular connectivity is set up on all their accounts. The PROA7PLUS on the other hand doesn't use Alarm.com, but rather it uses AlarmNet and Total Connect 2.0. For the most part, Alarm.com and Total Connect 2.0 are relatively equal, but in a rare area of difference, TC2 allows for IP-only service, while ADC requires a cellular connection. The result is that when a customer comes to us wanting low-cost monitoring, after we explain the benefits of cellular, and they still want IP-only anyway, we go ahead with recommending the PROA7PLUS. That's not a bad thing either, as the system is super sleek, and it offers an incredible mix of great features and reliable performance. Though when it comes to the area where the PROA7PLUS stands out the most, it's the system's ability to be set up for IP-only alarm monitoring service. Unless Alarm.com drops its cellular requirement, or 2GIG and/or Qolsys team-up with another monitoring platform, Resideo and the PROA7PLUS will continue to dominate this market segment. There will always be people wanting monitoring service at the lowest possible price, even if it means giving up cellular connectivity. Luckily for those frugal folks, they have an excellent panel that gives them that option in the PROA7PLUS. That alone gives the PROA7PLUS plenty of opportunity to succeed. Also, just to be clear, a user can always add a cellular communicator to a PROA7PLUS and upgrade to cellular monitoring later on. We have many customers who want to start out on a low-cost plan and then upgrade to a more expensive plan later. That's perfectly understandable, and the PROA7PLUS makes that option possible.

What Do You Think?

We mean it when we say that the Edge, IQ Panel 2 Plus, and PROA7PLUS are all fantastic alarm panels. We might do a ranking someday, but to us, they are all winners. The choice really comes down to your unique needs. If the convenience of arming or disarming using your face is most important, go with the Edge. If you need the extended wireless range of PowerG, go with the IQ Panel 2 Plus. If you want low-cost IP-only monitoring, go with the PROA7PLUS. Each panel has its own advantage. There are also many other talking points that we simply don't have time to get to today. However, you can start your own discussion in the comments below! We would love to hear your thoughts, opinions, viewpoints, and personal experiences. If you have used or tested out any of these panels, then we would love to know about it. Also, our comments section is a great place to ask questions. Maybe we have something that we didn't cover that you would like to learn more about? Our team of experts are happy to help you. Leave a comment below, and we will be sure to reply. Plus, don't forget to stay tuned to our blog for more security news and discussions coming soon!