DIY Security Systems Posts

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

Connecting an iPhone to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

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

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

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

Upgrading a Honeywell LYNX Touch to Use LTE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with Alarm.com

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

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

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

The Internal Alarm Siren On the Lyric Alarm System

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

It was another productive week for our video team last week, as eight (8) new videos were released on February 12th and 13th. Jorge appeared in the most videos, but fan-favorite Jarrett also showed up. I even appeared in a couple! Let's check out the newest Alarm Grid tutorial videos!

Checking The Simon XT Firmware Version Number

Jorge explains how you can check the Firmware Version Number of an Interlogix Simon XT Security System. The current highest firmware version for the Simon XT is Version 1.6. However, it is particularly important that the system is on at least Firmware Version 1.3. Firmware Version 1.3 is the minimum version needed to install a cellular communicator in the Simon XT Security System so that you can get it connected with Alarm.com for monitoring service.

Using Home Automation on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 w/o Monitoring

Jorge shows how you can use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System for smart home automation functions even if the system is not actively monitored. However, getting the system monitored and connected with Alarm.com will open up the door for many more automation functions. By connecting the system with Alarm.com, you can set up smart scenes to have devices like lights, door locks, and smart thermostats activate automatically based on a set schedule or with certain system events.

Using Honeywell 5800 Sensors On a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Our good man Jarrett explains how you can use Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors on the 345 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ panel 2 Plus. This version of the system can also support 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and DSC PowerG Sensors. It is also important to note that you can only use uni-directional (one-way) 345 MHz sensors with the system. You cannot use any bi-directional Honeywell 5800 Sensors with the 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus.

Response Types for a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System

I explain Response Types on a Honeywell Lyric Controller. Every sensor enrolled with the system is assigned a Response Type. This setting determines how the system responds when the sensor is faulted. Making sure you set the correct Response Type for each zone is important. If you set the incorrect Response Type for a zone, then the system won't respond the way you want it to when a sensor is faulted. Keep in mind that difference Response Types are available for different Device Types.

Changing the Volume of a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge shows you how to adjust the volume on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The IQ panel 2 has three (3) volume settings available. There are volume settings Voices, Beeps and Chimes, and Media. Each setting can be adjusted individually as needed. You will need to know the Master Code, the Installer Code, or the Dealer Code to make volume changes. Also keep in mind that setting any volume option to 0 will mute that selection.

Enrolling an IQ Fob with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Clean-shaven Jarrett shows you how to enroll a Qolsys IQ Fob with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The Qolsys IQ Fob is a key fob that operates at 319.5 MHz. It offers buttons for arming, disarming, automation, and an auxiliary panic. The actual functions of the buttons are determined based on the sensor group you assign to the key fob zone. The device has a range of about 100 feet, and it works with nearly any security system that supports 319.5 MHz wireless sensors.

Using a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with Apple HomeKit

Jorge explains how it is not possible to use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System with Apple HomeKit. You cannot have HomeKit devices respond automatically based on system events. But the system does offer integrations with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Also, you can control the system using Siri Shortcuts through Alarm.com. If you need a system that offers full functionality with Apple HomeKit, then we recommend the Honeywell Lyric Controller. The Lyric offers a great HomeKit integration.

Are There Security Systems Better Than a Qolsys IQ Panel Alarm System?

I explain how there are many security systems that are superior to the original Qolsys IQ Panel. The original IQ Panel was the first system released by Qolsys. It has since been replaced by the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus supports more advanced features, improved automation functions, more reliable communication, and more robust sensor support. It also offers a slimmer design and a sleeker profile, making it more aesthetically pleasing.

Alarm Grid is proud to announce that new Honeywell Lyric System Kits are now available! These new kits come included with Honeywell 5800MINI Door/Window Sensors, which are easy to enroll and install. Now is the perfect time to get started with a new Honeywell Lyric Security System!

Customers can choose between the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK Kit and the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK10 Kit. The LYRIC5800PK Kit includes three (3) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. This is a good kit for a smaller home or an apartment where not many sensors are needed. If you have a larger home or business, then the LYRIC5800PK10 Kit is most likely the preferred option. That kit includes ten (10) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. Of course, both kits can be easily expanded upon if needed. The Lyric supports 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Sensors, 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors, and 128-bit AES encrypted Honeywell SiX Series Sensors.

Previously, Alarm Grid offered Lyric System Kits that featured the VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contacts. The Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors offer the exact same performance, and they have an identical appearance. The only difference is that the Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors have a red circuit board, while the one for the VERSA-2GIG is yellow. But with the cover closed, you won't be able to see the difference. Both sensors enroll in the same manner, and they both provide excellent function as door and window contacts.

We have included some other accessories with these kits to help you get started. Both kits feature the Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Sensor. This passive infrared (PIR) motion detection sensor offers a coverage area of 40 feet by 56 feet, and it provides pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 80 pounds. As this sensor is part of the SiX Series lineup, it utilizes 128-bit AES encryption for enhanced wireless security. This military-grade encryption makes it nearly impossible for others to hack or takeover. And since the Lyric System supports up to 128 wireless zones, you will have no problem expanding on the system later if needed.

For monitoring service, the Lyric comes with a built-in WIFI card. This allows the system to connect with the AlarmNet360 Servers, provided that you obtain an appropriate monitoring plan. You should also make sure that your monitoring plan includes access to Total Connect 2.0, as that will really unlock some exciting features and capabilities for your system. By accessing TC2 through a web browser or mobile app, you can arm and disarm your system, control Z-Wave home automation devices, check system status and more. Speaking of Z-Wave, the Lyric Panel includes a built-in Z-Wave controller for adding devices like lights, locks and thermostats. You can create Total Connect smart scenes for automatic operation of these devices based on predetermined system events.

But perhaps the biggest benefit to the Lyric Alarm System is its ability to be used with Apple HomeKit. This is an interactive platform for iOS users that offers some impressive features when paired with a Lyric Alarm Panel. You can have your HomeKit devices respond automatically based on certain events of your Lyric System. And if you have a compatible HomeKit Hub, such as an iPad or an Apple TV, then you can control your Lyric System remotely using Siri voice commands sent from your iPhone. Simply put, this integration is awesome, and you will surely want to take advantage of it as much as possible! Just remember that you need to have the Lyric activated for monitoring service in order to enable it with Apple HomeKit.

We are sure that you will love your new Lyric System Kit. The panel is super easy to operate, and you will love its 7-inch full-color touchscreen display. And it looks great whether mounted on a wall or rested on a desk or table using the Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount. If you have any questions about our new Lyric 5800MINI Kits, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring plans, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

The Alarm Grid Video Team has sure had an interesting past few weeks. It all came to head at the start of last week when they uploaded a backlog of seven (7) new videos. No new videos were uploaded after that, so we're rolling with those 7 for this recap. We hope you like the videos!

But where it gets unusual is the fact that four (4) of the new videos featured myself. I don't usually roll up my sleeves and appear in videos, as I don't have quite the star-power of Jorge or the young lad Jarrett. But I was happy to help out. The four videos I appeared in covered the DSC PG9944 Outdoor Image Sensor, which is a great product for anyone with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System.

Don't worry - you will still get to enjoy one (1) new video from Jorge and two (2) new videos from that guy wearing the silly Batman jacket. But in all seriousness, we hope you enjoy the new videos and find them helpful in using your security system. Anyway, no more babbling, let's get on with the video recap for the week of February 3rd!

Tilt Sensor That Is Compatible with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jarrett wears a Batman jacket as he explains which tilt sensors are compatible with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. A tilt sensor is typically used for monitoring a garage door and letting the system know when it is opened or closed. The original Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System uses 319.5 MHz tilt sensors like the Qolsys IQ Tilt-S. If you have an IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you should choose a 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, or 433 MHz wireless tilt sensor based on the version of the system you have. Unfortunately, there is not yet a PowerG Tilt Sensor.

Honeywell Lyric Alarm System vs Tuxedo Touch Keypad

A nice and polite young man named Jarrett covers the differences between the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System and the Honeywell Tuxedo Touch Touchscreen Keypad. These are two completely different devices with totally different functions. The Lyric is a standalone wireless alarm panel, while the Tuxedo is a keypad for a Honeywell VISTA System. You cannot use the Tuxedo Touch as a keypad for a Lyric System. If you are wanting a dedicated keypad for your Lyric System, then you should check out the Honeywell LKP500.

Communicators That Are Compatible With the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i

Jorge covers the alarm monitoring communicators that are used with the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i Security System. The Simon XTi-5i needs a cellular communicator to work with the Alarm.com platform. There are plenty of communicator options for the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System. But the most notable ones are those from the Alarm.com XT-511 lineup. These include the Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT (AT&T LTE), the Alarm.com XT-511-US-VZ (Verizon LTE), the Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL (Telus LTE), the Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT (AT&T LTE & IP), and the Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ (Verizon LTE & IP)

Does the PG9944 Take Pictures or Videos?

I explain that the DSC PG9944 Outdoor Image Sensor takes pictures, not videos. An image sensor is basically a still-motion camera combined with a motion detection sensor. They are great alternatives to security cameras. When the PG9944 triggers an alarm on the system, it will begin capturing images. Ten (10) images are taken and sent to the panel. If you have an IQ Panel 2 Plus, you can view these 10 images as a stop-motion video. Additionally, the first of these images will be forwarded to Alarm.com for remote viewing. But the PG9944 has no way of capturing video.

Enrolling the DSC PG9944 w/ the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

I show you how to enroll the DSC PG9944 with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. All versions of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus are capable of supporting PowerG Sensors like the PG9944. The sensor is enrolled by putting the IQ Panel 2 Plus into its enrollment mode and then activating the enrollment function on the sensor to learn it in. The enrollment button can be a little difficult to reach with batteries installed, so you will likely need to use a thin object like a screwdriver to press and hold the button.

Viewing the Images Captured By the PG9944 On the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

I show you how to view images taken by the PG9944 on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The IQ Panel 2 Plus has a Camera Menu where you can see images taken by the system and any enrolled PowerG Image Sensors. This menu is easily accessed by swiping right or left from the main system screen until you reach the appropriate section. The PG9944 takes ten (10) images when it causes a system alarm, and it sends these images to the IQ Panel 2 Plus for local viewing. The images are viewable as a stop-motion video.

Using the PG9944 Outdoors

I explain how the DSC PG9944 is suitable for use in an outdoor environment. The sensor is able to withstand various environmental conditions that are expected to occur outdoors, including rain, wind, dust, heavy sunlight, and extreme temperatures. However, the PG9944 should not be submerged in water at any time. If you are looking for a PowerG Image Sensor to use exclusively indoors, then you might consider the DSC PG9934P instead. The DSC PG9934P is not suitable for use outdoors, but it is smaller and less expensive than the PG9944.

One great thing about owning a PowerG Security System is that it is super easy to add a wireless siren. DSC manufactures an indoor model and an outdoor model for PowerG users. Whether you are looking for a DSC NEO Wireless Siren or a new siren for an IQ Panel 2 Plus, we have you covered!

The two (2) sirens in the PowerG lineup include the DSC PG9901 Indoor Alarm Siren and the DSC PG9911B Outdoor Alarm Siren w/ Strobe. Both will easily pair with any system that supports PowerG Sensors. These systems include the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, the DSC PowerSeries NEO w/ added PowerG Transceiver, and the DSC Iotega Security System. Both sirens work great, and they can make a nice addition to nearly any compatible alarm panel.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the DSC Iotega already include their own built-in sounders that will activate during alarm events. But if you are using the system in a larger home or business, or if you find that the internal sounder isn't loud enough, then you might consider adding an external siren as well. Meanwhile, the DSC PowerSeries NEO Systems are wired panels that are typically paired with hardwired sirens. But if you want to skip the process for wiring a siren, then adding a wireless PowerG Siren can be the perfect solution.

There are two (2) main benefits to adding an external siren with a security system. The first is that most external sirens are louder than the internal sounders built into alarm panels. The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the DSC Iotega both have internal sounders rated at 85 dB. The DSC PG9901 and the DSC PG9911B are both rated at 110 dB. Remember that volume increases exponentially with the decibel (dB) rating, so you are certainly getting a major increase in volume output with a DSC PowerG Wireless Siren.

The other major benefit to adding an external siren is that it spreads the sound out during an alarm event. Just because you add an external siren to your wireless system does not mean that the system's internal siren will stop functioning. Instead, both the system's internal sounder and the added siren will activate during alarm events. If you have the external siren in a different area, then you can really spread the sound out. This can be crucial for making sure that everyone on the premises is alerted.

Sirens activate during intrusion, fire, and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on a system, unless the alarms are specifically set to silent. There are many purposes to alarm sirens, and every system should have one set up. First and foremost, a siren alerts building occupants to let them know that there is danger and that they need to evacuate immediately. A good alarm siren can mean the difference between life and death in many situations.

Sirens also provide assistance to emergency responders, such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. In the heat of the moment, it can be difficult for a responder to determine which home or business is experiencing an emergency. A siren helps eliminate this issue, as the emergency responder will know to go to the location where the siren is coming from. Lastly, sirens are useful during intrusion alarms, as they will often scare off an intruder and prevent them from sticking around to cause more property damage. This is why every security system should have a functional siren set up and configured. And if you have a larger home or business, then setting up multiple alarm sirens is probably in your best interest.

For basic indoor use, the DSC PG9901 is an ideal option. This DSC Indoor Siren produces sounds of up to 110 dB, which is roughly as loud as an industrial grade chainsaw or a live rock concert in a typical venue. If you need a siren for outdoor use, then you should go with the DSC PG9911B. This siren also operates at 110 dB, but it is built to withstand an outdoor environment with its IP55 protection rating. The DSC PG9911B also includes a built-in strobe light, which can be a nice visual indication of an alarm. Please note that some jurisdictions may have restrictions on the color of strobe lights you can use. Make sure to check local laws and see if blue strobe lights are allowed in your area.

Both the DSC PG9901 and the DSC PG9911B are available from Alarm Grid. We're happy to help you get started with a new PowerG Siren. If you have any questions about the DSC PG9901, the DSC PG9911B, or any of the other products on our site, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you have a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, a DSC PowerSeries NEO, or a DSC Iotega, then you have likely worked with PowerG Sensors. These sensors are highly regarded for their impeccable security and great range. But if you really want to go overkill, you can also add a PowerG Repeater.

The DSC PG9920, more commonly known as the PowerG Repeater, effectively doubles the communication range for PowerG Sensors. The way that this works is that the PowerG Repeater will take the signal sent out from a PowerG Sensor and send it out a second time. The repeated signal will then make its way to the panel for regular operation.

Wireless repeaters have been used in the security industry mostly since wireless sensors became the new norm for alarm systems. Up until recently, wireless sensors for security systems typically had pretty lackluster range. It wasn't uncommon to see a wireless sensor with a communication range of under 200 feet. For those older wireless sensors, wireless repeaters are frequently used, as that is often the only way that they will work reliably in larger homes and businesses.

But PowerG Sensors are a completely different animal. When used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, these sensors offer a wireless range of up to 2,000 feet in open air. And if you use a PowerG Sensor on a DSC PowerSeries NEO with an added transceiver, then you can expect a wireless range of 2 km in open air. You read that correctly - 2 kilometers!

Granted, these are open air communication ranges. You will need to consider obstacles like thick walls and large metal obstacles that can reduce wireless range. However, we have had many customers use PowerG Sensors in places like warehouses, strip malls, industrial complexes, and other large locations without experiencing any communication issues. And this is all without the use of a repeater!

With that in mind, the odds of you needing a repeater for your PowerG Security System are pretty slim, unless you're really pushing the limits of wireless communication. Most users are not expecting their systems to work beyond the confines of a home or a small business. But if you do put a PG9920 Repeater to use, then you can expect some truly astounding wireless range. For an IQ Panel 2 Plus, PowerG Sensors can communicate from up to 4,000 feet away in open air once a repeater gets involved. And on a DSC PowerSeries NEO, this range is up to 4 KILOMETERS in open air!

The most common situations where PowerG Repeaters are used are in locations like manufacturing facilities and other major industrial complexes where large metal objects, heavy machinery, and thick walls disrupt the communication range so severely that using a PowerG Repeater is the only way for the sensor signals to make their way back to the panel. But understand that these are very uncommon situations. Most likely, you probably do not need a PowerG Repeater.

If you are setting up a system with PowerG Sensors, then we will typically recommend that you try to do so without using a repeater. You probably don't need one. If you then find that your sensors are experiencing communication issues, then you could try supplementing them with a PowerG Repeater. It is advised that you place it strategically to give the sensors the most benefit. Remember, any PowerG signals detected by the repeater will be sent out a second time so that they can ultimately reach the panel.

Please note that you cannot use multiple PowerG Repeaters to repeat a signal from a PowerG Sensor multiple times. A PowerG Sensor can only have its signal repeated once. Theoretically, you could have two (2) different PowerG Repeaters going out in different directions from the panel to repeat sensor signals coming from both pathways, but that's probably not going to be something you need to do. But if you really have a massive complex with a PowerG Alarm System in the center, it is theoretically possible.

You can get the DSC PG9920 PowerG Repeater from Alarm Grid. But like we said, you probably don't need it. If you have any other questions about the PowerG Repeater or any of the other products on our website, please contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Welcome to the first post of February 2020 from Alarm Grid! Our video team wrapped up January quite nicely by releasing four (4) new videos right at the end of the month. We have three (3) new videos from Joe, plus one (1) from Jorge. We hope that you find them helpful. Let's check them out!

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Can be Self-Monitored

Jorge explains how the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus can be self-monitored using Alarm.com. Self-monitoring means that the system is not connected with a central monitoring station, and the user sets up text and/or email notifications regarding system events. It will then be up to the end user to contact the authorities if any help is needed. Alarm Grid offers self monitoring plans, which can be seen on our alarm monitoring page. These self plans are great for users who don't necessarily benefit from central station monitoring, but who still want to be alerted to system events.

Calibrating an Alarm.com Camera for Video Analytics

Joe demonstrates the process for setting up an Alarm.com Camera for Alarm.com Video Analytics. This process is required for the Alarm.com ADC-V622-WELL and the Alarm.com ADC-V723. The calibration process helps ensure that ADC Video Analytics works as effectively as possible and that alerts will be sent as desired. You can likely complete the calibration process in just a few minutes, though it can be helpful to have an assistant work with you too, as having a second pair of hands can really come in handy!

Installing a Honeywell 7847i On A VISTA P-Series Panel

Joe completes the process of installing a Honeywell 7847i IP Communicator on a Honeywell VISTA P-Series Panel. This module allows the system to communicate with the AlarmNet Servers for monitoring service. The user will also be able to control their system through Total Connect 2.0 if the service is included in their alarm monitoring plan. The communicator uses a hardwired ethernet connection for IP service. It is also possible to use this module for wireless internet connectivity by adding an ethernet to WIFI bridge.

Installing a Honeywell 7847i On A VISTA Turbo Panel

Joe adds a Honeywell 7847i IP Communicator to a VISTA TURBO Panel. Examples of VISTA TURBO Panels include the Honeywell VISTA-128BPT and the Honeywell VISTA-250BPT. The Honeywell 7847i connects with a VISTA TURBO Panel using a 4-wire connection. Keep in mind that this communicator is for IP only. An internet outage will take the system offline, as this module does not offer any cellular backup. You may want to get a backup battery for your IP router to keep it online during power outages.

We have very recently seen many customers looking for security systems that support the Apple HomeKit platform. Although the options are still rather limited, you can absolutely find a great HomeKit Security System. Today, we are going to discuss the options that are currently available.

If you aren't familiar with Apple HomeKit, it is the premier smart home and automation platform for iOS users. The market is filled with HomeKit devices that you can include with a HomeKit network. Once you have properly configured your HomeKit network, you can then control your devices remotely using Siri voice commands on your iPhone. You can also create HomeKit Smart Scenes to have your devices activate automatically based on a schedule or with predetermined events.

Integrating your security system with your HomeKit network opens up the door for some extremely useful automation functions. You can have devices on your network automatically respond to actions on your security system, such as arming/disarming or going into alarm. As your security system will likely be an important fixture in your home or business, it is likely that you will want to have your HomeKit devices respond to the events on your alarm system. That is why having a HomeKit Security System is so useful.

At this time, there are only two (2) security systems that support the Apple HomeKit platform. We are very hopeful that more systems will join this elite club in the near future. But for now you have the choice of two systems. Of these two, we highly recommend one over the other. But we will discuss both of these alarm panels so that you can learn all about the HomeKit System options.

Honeywell Lyric Alarm System

The Honeywell Lyric Alarm System is currently our top pick as a HomeKit Security System. This is a very powerful alarm panel that includes support for 128 wireless zones, a built-in 7-inch full-color touchscreen, integrated WIFI, support for encrypted Honeywell SiX Series Sensors, and backwards compatibility with Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors. The panel connects with the Resideo AlarmNet Servers for monitoring service and access to the Total Connect 2.0 platform.

What's great about the Lyric is the fact that the system offers intuitive end user programming. This means that the end user can easily set up their own security system, without needing to hire an installer. You can quickly and conveniently make programming changes to your Lyric System when needed, and you can save a huge amount of money by setting up the system yourself. With a new Lyric Panel, you will have access to the default Installer Code (4112) to make your own system changes whenever you want.

You will also find that it is incredibly easy to set the Lyric up with your Apple HomeKit network. In order to activate HomeKit on the Lyric, you must get the system monitored by an alarm company. Any of the monitoring plans offered from Alarm Grid are perfect for this. You can even use a monitoring plan that is IP only, as opposed to a cellular monitoring plan. Although cellular monitoring is always recommended for optimal reliability, many users use IP only monitoring plans to keep expenses as low as possible.

Bottom Line: The Lyric is the best HomeKit Security System of 2020.

DSC Iotega

At first glance, the DSC Iotega looks like an exceptional HomeKit System. It supports 128 wireless zones, and you can use PowerG Sensors, which are arguably the best in the security industry. The Iotega is also currently the only HomeKit Alarm Panel that can be used with the Alarm.com service, which many experts view as the go-to monitoring and automation platform. In those aspects, the Iotega fills some unique niches that are left unfulfilled by the Lyric.

But the Iotega has some glaring weaknesses. The system's biggest issue is that it offers no local end user programming. You cannot program the system without the help of a monitoring company. Any time you want to make a change to the system settings or add/edit/delete a sensor, you will need to contact your alarm company for help. This includes situations where you are just making a minor settings adjustment. The Iotega is known for being notoriously inconvenient in that aspect, and this limitation rightfully turns many potential customers away.

The aesthetics of the DSC Iotega are also a weakness. The system is just a simple black box with a numeric touchpad that appears when activated. There is no touchscreen, and all commands are made with numeric entries. This can be very non-intuitive for new users, and understanding the system is often very difficult. DSC does offer a touchscreen keypad for the Iotega, but most users prefer getting a system that already has a touchscreen built-in.

There are times where (unfortunately) the Iotega is the best option. PowerG Sensors offer a better wireless range than anything that is available for the Lyric. And if you need to build around the Alarm.com platform due to something like existing Alarm.com Cameras, then you may be tempted to get started with the Iotega. The fact remains that this is currently the only one of the HomeKit Alarm Systems that can be used with PowerG Sensors and Alarm.com.

Bottom Line: Only use the DSC Iotega as a HomeKit System in extremely niche scenarios.

If you have any questions about the Honeywell Lyric, the DSC Iotega, or any of the other products on our site, please reach out to us. We are also happy to discuss our monitoring services if you have any questions or concerns. The best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We maintain support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!