DIY Security Systems Posts

When thinking about home security, many people mistakenly believe that it is always an expensive endeavor. The truth is that the cost can range from extremely affordable to exceedingly pricey. Today, we're here to tell you that home security does not have to cost you an arm and a leg.

Setting up a home security system is a worthwhile investment for any homeowner or renter. Protecting your assets is extremely important, and you can even save money on your homeowner's insurance. And if you decide to move, you can either bring the system with you, or leave it at the property to increase your home's resell value.

How much you spend on home security truly depends upon your needs. While you can certainly spend a large sum of money monitoring your home, the reality is that you don't have to break the bank. At Alarm Grid, we offer monitoring plans for all budgets. Our self-monitoring plans start at just $10 per month, while our central station monitoring plans start at just $15 per month.

Keep in mind that you will needs a central station monitoring plan to receive a certificate of alarm (CoA) and save money on your homeowner's insurance premium. These savings can vary significantly, so make sure to check with your insurance company to find out how much you can save. Many homeowners find that monitoring an alarm system actually pays for itself due to the insurance savings!

The system you purchase also makes a big difference in your monthly monitoring costs. Many panels require you to upgrade to a cellular plan for monitoring service. Cellular monitoring has a higher monthly cost than IP-only monitoring, so make sure to keep this in mind. Although we always recommend using cellular for its superb reliability, we also understand that some users are comfortable with IP monitoring service.

If you do decide to go with IP-only monitoring, just make sure that the internet in your home is reliable. A downed internet connection will leave your home unmonitored and vulnerable. You will also want to get a panel that can be used with IP-only service. Nearly all of the Honeywell Panels we sell are suitable for this type of monitoring.

We recommend the Resideo Lyric Controller for IP-only monitoring. This system has a built-in WIFI card, so you won't need to get any add-ons to get the panel up and running.You can also easily add a cellular communicator if you decide to upgrade your service later on. We also sell some Lyric System Kits that include everything you need to get started with alarm monitoring service. There is a 3-1 kit for smaller homes, and a 10-1 kit for larger homes.

Also remember that you do not need to buy a system from Alarm Grid to receive our monitoring service. If you can find a system elsewhere for a lower price, then go for it. We do recommend contacting us before making the purchase to make sure it's a system we can monitor. Our security system planners will be glad to help you design your system from start to finish.

What else can you do to keep costs low? Well we definitely recommend going with a DIY, no-contract monitoring company like Alarm Grid. DIY means do-it-yourself. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by installing your security system yourself. While installing your own system might seem like a challenge, it really doesn't have to be. In fact, the Lyric Kits we mentioned before can technically be installed using nothing more than a screwdriver!

The other important thing is to make sure the security company you choose is no-contract. You can be left on the hook for huge amounts of money if you get stuck in a contract. And if there's ever an emergency and you need to suddenly cancel your service, you will be very glad that you chose a no-contract company. At Alarm Grid, you can easily discontinue your monitoring service at the end of your monthly payment cycle and then resume service when you are ready.

Also remember that Alarm Grid has no added fees. This means that you never pay extra to start or stop your service. What you see is exactly what you get. We do this to make our monitoring service as accessible to many people as possible. If you are intereste in learning more about what we offer, we encourage you to check out our monitoring page for more information.

You are also more than welcome to talk with us before you make your decision. We would love to speak with you if you have any questions or concerns. The best way to get a hold of us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply back as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST. We look forward to hearing from you, and we hope to make you a valued member of the Alarm Grid family!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're going to present a helpful tip for Lyric users. Some of our customers have inadvertently discovered the Keypad Tamper Lockout feature on their Resideo Lyric Systems. We want to tell you about this feature and help prevent you from being locked out of your system.

We actually just released an FAQ the other day that explains this feature in full detail. You can read it at this link if you want to. But for now, we will cover some of the basics of the feature and how it applies to you. The Lyric Keypad Tamper Lockout feature stops the system from accepting any numeric key inputs (0-9) for 15 minutes whenever thirty (30) numeric keys are entered in a 15 minute period, without ever executing a valid command. Any further numeric key inputs during this 15 minute period will result in a long error tone.

Basically, if you are at your Lyric System, and you repeatedly try (unsuccessfully) to enter a valid code, then the Lyric will no longer allow you to keep trying. The purpose of this feature is to prevent someone from using brute force to try and access the system. While the feature can lead to frustration if you ever accidentally lock yourself out, it is an important safety measure to prevent an intruder from ever getting into your system.

Obviously, locking out an intruder is a good thing. But unfortunately, some users may find themselves in the same boat. This often happens because a user swears that they remember their code, when they really do not. They will keep trying to enter the same incorrect code. And once they reach 30 incorrect inputs without entering a valid command, they will become locked out. The user will not be able to try again until 15 minutes have passed. Or until the system has been reset via a complete power cycle.

Another common reason for this to happen is because of a misunderstanding of the Guest Code. The Guest Code is only able to disarm the system when it was the code used to arm the system in the first place. A user may give the Guest Code to someone, arm the system with their usual Master Code, and then expect that individual to disarm the system with the Guest Code later. The visitor will try (repeatedly) to disarm using the Guest Code, without success. And they will inevitably find themselves locked out with the tell-tale long error tone.

Unfortunately, there is no way to disable the feature. It's just something you have to accept with the Lyric System. How can you prevent yourself from being locked out? It's simple. Just make sure you remember your code! If you enter the correct code within 30 inputs, then you won't become locked out. And if you think that you might have trouble remembering a code, you can always use a key fob or Total Connect 2.0 to disarm your system instead. It's also worth mentioning that key fobs and TC2 will STILL WORK if you have activated the Keypad Lockout feature.

If you want to learn more about this feature, you can always check out the FAQ we mentioned earlier. We also invite you to email us at support@alarmgrid.com with any further questions you might have. Remember, we offer free support for all monitored customers. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We're here with another video recap, this time covering August 20th thru 23rd. As usual, thanks goes out to our video team for all the hard work they do. They managed to put up some great videos this time, and we are eager to show them off. Let's check out the newest videos!

Adding a Second Push-button Keypad to a VISTA-20P

Joe teaches you how to add a second keypad to a Honeywell VISTA System. This process applies to any Alphanumeric Keypad or Fixed English Keypad. In order to set up the keypad, you must wire it to the panel and address it. You can use any address from 16-23 for a push-button keypad. Address 16 is usually for the initial keypad, so a second keypad will typically use an address of 17-23. Remember to enable the address in programming from your first keypad if needed.

Clearing a Low Battery On a VISTA P-Series Panel

Joe covers the process for clearing a low battery on a VISTA P-Series Alarm System. A low battery trouble condition occurs when battery fails a Load Test and determines that the battery cannot properly support the current load. To fix a low battery, you need to either give the battery some time to charge, or replace it with a new one. Then you must have the system pass a Load Test to clear the trouble. Remember, the typical battery life is about three (3) to five (5) years.

Properly Testing the Honeywell 5800CO with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Joe explains how you can properly test the Honeywell 5800CO Carbon Monoxide Sensor with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. This device only works with the 345 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. You can easily test the sensor's communication with the panel by using the recessed test button. But if you want to test the sensor's ability to detect carbon monoxide gas, then you can use canned CO to complete a test. Be very careful when using canned CO!

Updating a LYNX Touch Panel Using the LynxTouch-MSD Tool

Joe is back for more, as he teaches you how to update a Honeywell L5210 or a Honeywell L7000 by using the Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Firmware Updater Tool. You might need to upgrade the firmware on one of these panels if you are trying to use an LTE communicator with the system. This includes the Honeywell LTE-L57A AT&T LTE Communicator and the Honeywell LTE-L57V Verizon LTE Communicator. You will need to power down the panel and open it up to complete the updating process.

The Difference Between Total Connect Comfort and Total Connect 2.0

Jorge explains the difference between Total Connect Comfort and Total Connect 2.0. Total Connect Comfort is an interactive platform designed strictly for use with certain Honeywell WIFI Thermostats. Total Connect 2.0 is much more robust, as it is used with Resideo Security Systems and a variety of different smart home devices, including Z-Wave devices. If you have a monitoring plan that includes access to TC2, then there is very little reason to keep using the Total Connect Comfort App.

Setting Up Automation On the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Smiling Jarrett is back! And he's gonna show you how to set up automation on your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System. Nearly any Z-Wave smart home device can be paired with the system. The panel has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, so you will get maximum range and battery life if you use Z-Wave Plus devices. Before adding Z-Wave devices, you should clear it from the network first. You can also use Alarm.com to control the Z-Wave devices on your IQ Panel 2 if you have the system monitored.

Hi DIYers! Today, we would like to discuss no-contract monitoring and why we feel that it is the best decision for anyone looking to get started with home or business security. The no-contract model offers many advantages that you will simply not receive with traditional "contract" plans.

If you did not know, no-contract monitoring is exactly what it sounds like. You receive alarm monitoring service, without locking yourself into a long-term commitment. You pay for a small time period of service (usually one month), and you can cancel your service at any time. This is still a relatively new offering in the security industry, as the traditional model required customers to sign long-term agreements committing them to service. But with no-contract monitoring, consumers now have an alternative option available.

Below are three reasons why you should sign-up for no-contract alarm monitoring:

It Offers The Best Flexibility.

If you want flexibility in your monitoring service, then a no-contract plan is definitely best for you. The ability to cancel service at any time can be very useful in certain situations. For example, if you are moving, then you might not need service for the month of your move. You can stop service on your old home and then start service at your new location when needed. Many people run intro trouble when they try to cancel a "contract" monitoring plan early for whatever reason. Some people are left on the hook for thousands of dollars for service they no longer need. This will not happen to you with a no-contract monitoring plan.

It Makes Changing Plans Easy.

Many people who are new to alarm monitoring sign-up for a plan that isn't right for them. While they might be happy with the service they receive, they might soon find that they need features only available on a higher-tiered plan. Or maybe they find that they are paying extra for services they don't really need.
With no-contract monitoring, this is not a concern. You can quickly and easily change your monitoring plan to meet your needs. If you decide to upgrade to have your monitoring service include cellular connectivity or home automation you can quickly change. Or if you are finding that you don't really use the remote access app as often as you thought you would, you can certainly downgrade to reduce costs.

It Keeps Monitoring Companies Honest.

When a customer signs-up for no-contract alarm service, the monitoring company must work hard to continue to earn their business each and every month. If the customer is ever unhappy with their service, then they can certainly leave and take their business elsewhere. But with a "contract" plan, the monitoring company has no reason to offer the best service. They have the customer right where they want them. A dissatisfied customer will still be locked in for the duration of the contract and on-the-hook for any of the costs involved. By going with a no-contract monitoring plan, you can be sure that your alarm company is always working hard to provide you with the very best service. And if you ever feel that they are not, then it is in your power to leave.

Now that you have three great reasons to choose no-contract alarm monitoring, we would like to recommend service with Alarm Grid. While there are many no-contract alarm monitoring companies out there, we feel that Alarm Grid is the best. Our monitoring plans are all offered on a month-to-month basis. If you ever need to cancel or suspend your service, we can shut it down at the end of your pay cycle to avoid having you pay for another month. There are never any added fees, and the price you see is what you will pay. We also do not charge fees for starting or stopping service, so you will not have to worry about that. Best of all, any equipment used is yours to keep. If you are not happy with Alarm Grid, you can take your system elsewhere, without experiencing any problems.

If you would like to learn more about Alarm Grid, please click the orange Alarm Monitoring button at the top of this page. You may also email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We are always happy to talk about our alarm monitoring plans and help new and prospective customers get exactly what they need. Remember, our team is here to help you every step of the way. We will continue to work hard each and every month to prove to you and those around you that we are the very best at what we do. We would like to thank you for considering Alarm Grid, and we hope to become a trusted part of your home or business.

Hi DIYers! It's time again for our video recap. Our video team did a great job last week, as they worked very hard to put up some helpful new videos. Jorge made the most videos with four (4) this time around. I even made a rare on-camera appearance! Let's check out the new videos.

Setting the Communication Path In a Lyric Controller

Jorge explains how to set the communication path for a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. You can choose between WIFI & Cellular, WIFI-Only, Cellular-Only, and None. If you have both WIFI and cellular enabled, then the system will use WIFI as the primary path to communicate with the AlarmNet Servers. Please note that you will need to add a cellular module to use cellular communication with the Lyric System. We recommend using the LYRICLTE-A or the LYRICLTE-V.

Using the IPCAM-WOC1 With a Lyric Security System

Jorge talks about how it is not possible to view the live feed for the IPCAM-WOC1 Security Camera through a Resideo Lyric Alarm System. The only way that you can view the live feed for this camera is through Total Connect 2.0. This is the interactive monitoring and automation platform that is commonly used with the Lyric System. You can access this platform through the TC2 website or mobile app. You will also need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to TC2 and video surveillance.

Reasons to Purchase an LTE Cellular Communicator

Jarrett discusses the reasons why you should make sure to buy an LTE cellular communicator for your alarm system. An LTE communicator will provide a fast and reliable connection that will keep your system monitored at all times. It will also provide a long-term monitoring solution for your panel. This is because cellular service providers have no plans to shut down their LTE networks any time soon. Older cellular networks like 3G and CDMA are expected to be shut down sometime in the coming years.

Setting Up The Slideshow Feature on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge teaches users how to set up the slideshow function on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Security System. The slideshow feature allows the panel to operate like a digital picture frame. This can be nice for making the aesthetic in your home more pleasant. Images are loaded onto the panel through a MicroSD card. There are many restrictions regarding the pictures that can be used in the slideshow function. Make sure to pay close attention in the video so you know which images you can add.

Z-Wave Light Status with Alarm.com

Jorge goes into detail about the Z-Wave light status feature for Alarm.com. A maximum of ten (10) "uncertified" Z-Wave lights can have their current ON/OFF status displayed from Alarm.com. Although you can add more Z-Wave lights beyond this limit, Alarm.com won't know whether the light is ON or OFF. In other words, you will be controlling these lights blindly. Alarm.com also has a list of "certified" Z-Wave Plus lights that do not count towards this device limit.

Alphanumeric, Fixed English, or Touchscreen Keypad?

I help you determine whether the keypad for your Honeywell VISTA System is an Alphanumeric Keypad, a Fixed English Keypad, or a Touchscreen Keypad. You can recognize an Alphanumeric Keypad because it will display "Installer Code 20" when you enter programming. A Fixed English Keypad will only display "20". A Touchscreen Keypad will have a Console Mode that allows the system to behave as an Alphanumeric Keypad. You should only use an Alphanumeric Keypad or a Touchscreen Keypad in Console Mode to complete deep-level programming.

Back in February, a tragedy occurred. A man accidentally left his vehicle running in his garage. He went to bed with his dog by his side. The next morning, the man was found dead in his bed. His dog was seizing on the floor and later died. The cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless and tasteless gas that kills hundreds of people every single year. Most casualties caused by carbon monoxide occur without the individual realizing they are being affected before it is too late. The gas can render people and pets unconscious without them even realizing what is happening. If no help is provided, then it is likely that they will never wake up.

When people think of carbon monoxide deaths, they usually think of incidents that occur during the winter months when heaters are commonly used to heat buildings. But not every CO-related death is caused by a faulty heating system. Incidents like the one that occurred in February happen more often then they should. And they can be easily prevented with carbon monoxide detectors.

A CO detector will activate upon detecting unusually high levels of carbon monoxide gas. This is typically before CO concentrations reach lethal levels. At Alarm Grid, we specialize in carbon monoxide detectors that will alert a security system upon activation. Once activated, the system will immediately go into a carbon monoxide alarm. This will involve activating the system's sounder or siren so that everyone inside the building is alerted.

If you have alarm monitoring service, then action will be taken as soon as a carbon monoxide alarm is received. A central station operator is required to request emergency dispatch for any CO alarm that comes through. In addition, they attempt to contact the premises to make certain any occupants are aware that a Carbon Monoxide alarm has been triggered. Rescuers will be on the way to save anyone inside the building. With a quick response, most CO-related deaths can be prevented.

Users with self-monitoring service will receive text, email, and/or push notifications from Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com to let them know that a carbon monoxide alarm has occurred. This way, they will know not to enter the building and to request help from the local fire department. To learn more about alarm monitoring, check our alarm monitoring page.

It never hurts to be proactive and get your home or business prepared for a carbon monoxide outbreak. The decision may ultimately save your life and the lives of others. If you need help choosing carbon monoxide sensors, we encourage you to reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com with any questions you might have. You can 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! We are happy to announce that the first 2GIG Encrypted Sensors are available on our site. The lineup includes two contacts, a motion, a key fob, and a glass break. Anyone with a 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e System will absolutely want to make use of these powerful new sensors.

The new 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors represent perhaps the biggest selling point of the new 2GIG Alarm Systems. These sensors are designed exclusively for use with the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e. When enrolled, they will make use of encryption in all their wireless communication. This makes these sensors virtually impervious to any wireless hacking or takeover attempts. This is the best way to ensure that your system is always protected.

It is important to note that you cannot bring these sensors over to the older 2GIG Go!Control GC2 and 2GIG GC3 Systems and expect them to work as non-encrypted wireless sensors. These new sensors can only be utilized as encrypted devices on the GC2e and GC3e Systems. However, you can bring over the older 2GIG Sensors and the Honeywell 5800 Sensors and use them with the GC2e and GC3e as standard 345 MHz sensors.

With that out of the way, let's start checking out the new encrypted sensors!

2GIG DW10e

The 2GIG DW10e is a surface-mounted door and window contact sensor. It offers a super thin profile, with dimensions of 2.59"L x 1.03"W x 0.49"D. This makes the sensor practically invisible when mounted flat on a white surface. There are two programmable loops for the DW10e. One loop will have the sensor operate as a standard contact with a reed switch. The other loop allows you to connect a single Normally Closed (NC) hardwired contact to the DW10e and have it communicate with the panel wirelessly.

2GIG DW20e

The 2GIG DW20e is a recessed door and window contact that is perfect for users who want to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing installation. The sensor and its accompanying magnet need to be inserted into holes that are drilled into the door or window and its frame. The only way to see the sensor after installation is to look at the door or window frame from the side when the door or window is already opened. The DW20e has an impressive 450-foot wireless range when used with direct line of sight.

2GIG PIR1e

The 2GIG PIR1e is a wireless PIR motion detection sensor. The device works by looking for the changes in IR energy that occur with movement. It uses a quad-element PIR sensor for superb reliability. The trustworthy and reliable motion detecting sensor offers a coverage area of 30' by 50'. This is perfect for a home or small business. There are three different sensitivity settings you can choose from. When used on low sensitivity, the device will provide pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 55 pounds.

2GIG GB1e

The 2GIG GB1e is a wireless glass break sensor. The device will effectively monitor plate, tempered, and sealed insulating glass that measures between 1/8 and 1/4 of an inch thick. The sensor listens for both the low-pitched "thud" of an object striking the glass and the higher-pitched "shattering" of the glass itself. This dual-detection process helps to ensure that false alarms do not occur. It is great for monitoring windows for forced entry, but it can also be used with protective glass casings that display products.

2GIG KEY2e

The 2GIG KEY2e is a wireless 4-button key fob that gives you a convenient way to control your GC2e or GC3e while you are on-site. There are dedicated buttons for Arming Away, Arming Stay, Disarming, and activating a relay device. You can also program a dual-button press of the top two buttons (Arm Away and Disarm) to trigger an instant panic. Any button must be held down for a full 2 seconds for the command to go through. This helps to prevent accidental inputs. It has a wireless range of 350 feet.

If you have questions about any of these new 2GIG eSeries Sensors or the 2GIG GC2e and GC3e, or if you just want to learn more about our monitoring service, please reach out to us! We are here to make sure you get the perfect equipment for your needs. The best way to contact us is always to email support@alarmgrid.com. If you want to speak by phone, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that there are new firmware updates available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the 2GIG GC3e & GC3 Systems. Qolsys users can apply the firmware update locally at the panel. 2GIG users can apply from USB or have it pushed from Alarm.com for a small fee.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Version 2.3.4

Starting with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, Firmware Update 2.3.4 is now available. This is a relatively minor upgrade to the system that improves recognition of the PowerG daughterboard for supporting wireless PowerG Sensors. Although you can technically apply this update to an original Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System, it won't make a difference, because that system does not have a PowerG daughtercard. Since you can apply this update locally at the panel, there is no fee required to receive this update. Remember, your system must be actively monitored and connected with Alarm.com for the update to go through.

In order to apply this update, you must have your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus connected to WIFI. The panel should be plugged into AC power, and it should not have a low-battery condition. To begin, start from the main screen of the system. Press the small grey bar at the top of the screen. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings> Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > enter iqpanel2.3.4 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. The system should begin downloading the update. Once the download is complete, the update will be applied. This process should take about five (5) minutes. The panel will reboot at this time. The process is complete after the reboot finishes.

2GIG GC3e & GC3 Firmware Version 3.2.3

The 2GIG GC3e System just became available very recently. This Firmware Update Version 3.2.3 is a great way to get your new GC3e System up and running. Additionally, existing users of the original 2GIG GC3 System can also apply this same update. The update provides support for the new AT&T LTE Communicator (coming soon!) and allows for 6-digit user codes with both the panel and compatible Z-Wave locks. It also provides various fixes and helps the system run smoother overall. It is recommended that every GC3e and GC3 user receives this update so that they can continue to get the most out of their system.

The easiest way to receive Firmware Version 3.2.3 is to simply have it pushed down from Alarm.com. To do this, the system must have an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator installed and activated. You must contact your alarm company and ask them to push the update. There will be a small fee for this service. If you don't have Alarm.com, you can get more information on our monitoring page. The latest update can also be applied directly at the panel. To do this, you must download the update file onto a USB flash drive and insert the drive into the panel. You will then be able to apply the update locally at no cost. More information on this process can be found in this helpful FAQ. Although that FAQ is specific to the original 2GIG GC3 System, the 2GIG GC3e will follow the same process. Remember, there is no cost required to update via USB.

If you have questions about either of these firmware updates, or if you would like to learn more about our monitoring services, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is always to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply 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 and answering your questions!

Hi DIYers! We have a small video recap this week. Our video team was on vacation for most of the week, but we put up three (3) new videos on Tuesday, August 6th. We have two (2) from Joe and one (1) from Jorge. We hope you are excited to check them out! Let's take a look our newest videos!

Carbon Monoxide Detector Functionality

Joe explains how carbon monoxide sensors for security systems are used. These life-safety devices will alert the alarm control panel whenever there is an outbreak of potentially lethal CO gas. This gas is odorless and tasteless, and it kills hundreds of people every single year. We recommend placing carbon monoxide sensors outside of bedrooms, in hallways, and in large central areas like living rooms. You should have at least one (1) CO detector on each floor of the building.

Features Included With an Alarm.com Video Plan

Jorge talks about the features that come included with an Alarm.com video plan. By using Alarm.com for video monitoring, you can view clips from Alarm.com and download them for permanent use. Alarm Grid provides 3,000 monthly clips and 3,000 total clips for any customer with Alarm.com video monitoring. We also provide complimentary Video Analytics at no extra charge. Additional monthly and total clips are available for an added fee. To use video monitoring with Alarm.com, you need a Platinum Plan or a Video-Only Plan.

Error Code 103 On a VISTA Alarm System

Joe discusses the Check 103 Error Code on a Honeywell VISTA System. The Check 103 message will be displayed on an Alphanumeric Keypad when there is a problem with the system's cellular communicator. There are many reasons why a Check 103 error might be displayed. Some possible causes can be a loose tamper cover on the communicator, the panel being unable to recognize the communicator, or the communicator not being registered with AlarmNet. Please note that a Fixed-English Keypad will display the message bF instead for "backup failure".

Hi DIYers! We have exciting news today, as the Honeywell LTE-IA for VISTA Series Panels is now available! This has been eagerly anticipated by VISTA users with strong service from the AT&T LTE Network. We are sure that many of you will want to take advantage of this great new communicator!

As a dual-path communicator, the Honeywell LTE-IA can send signals thorough both a local IP network and a cellular network. It uses a hardwired ethernet connection for IP service, and it works across the AT&T LTE Network for cellular service. The communicator will use IP as its primary path, and cellular will serve as the backup.

Being able to connect with the AT&T LTE Network is the best feature of this communicator. AT&T has stated that they will support their LTE network well into the very distant future. The network will remain in-service even as newer networks like 5G are made available many years from now. AT&T invested huge amounts of money into their LTE infrastructure. Their LTE network is not going anywhere anytime soon. The result is that this communicator will keep your VISTA Panel monitored in the long-run.

The importance of reliable cellular backup cannot be stressed enough. Internet outages, and it is highly likely that your system will need to rely on its cellular connection at some point or another. As long as the cellular path is still available, your VISTA System will remain connected with the AlarmNet360 Servers. This means that you will still be able to take advantage of all the great features from Total Connect 2.0.

Speaking of Total Connect 2.0, a proper AlarmNet Communicator like the Honeywell LTE-IA is required if you want to use this service. If you didn't know, TC2 is an interactive monitoring and automation platform that you can access from anywhere. This is possible using the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App on Android and iOS devices.

By accessing TC2, you can arm and disarm your system, check its status, control Z-Wave devices (Tuxedo Touch or VAM required), view TC2 Cameras (video plan needed), and more. All you need is a compatible Honeywell System with an AlarmNet Communicator, and an appropriate alarm monitoring plan.

For the VISTA P-Series Panels, the VISTA 15P, VISTA 20P, and VISTA 21iP can all support TC2. There are just some firmware requirements you need to keep in mind. A 15P or 20P must be running firmware 9.12 or higher. A 21iP must be running firmware 3.13 or higher. If you aren't sure of the firmware, just check the PROM Chip. This is a small black chip on the panel's main board. It will have a code that begins with the letters "WA". This code will tell you the firmware version.

If you find that the PROM Chip is not high enough, don't worry! We sell new 15P PROM Chips, 20P PROM Chips, and 21iP PROM Chips. Just be aware that a 15P or 20P System will need to be at least firmware 2.0 or higher to receive a PROM Chip upgrade. Any VISTA 21iP can receive a PROM Chip upgrade.

To replace the PROM Chip, start by powering down the panel by disconnecting the backup battery and unplugging the transformer. Carefully pry off the old PROM Chip with the metal end of a binder clip. Then apply the new one by putting it in the same place and pressing it down until it clicks. Just be careful not to bend the metal prongs on the new PROM Chip! You can then power up your system by plugging the transformer back in and reconnecting the backup battery.

If you actually have better service from the Verizon LTE Network than the AT&T LTE Network, you should also know that a similar Verizon LTE Dual-Path Communicator called the Honeywell LTE-IV has been available for quite some time. Remember, the service provider for your alarm system has nothing to do with the service provider for your phone. Just go with whichever service works best in your area, regardless of which service you use for your smartphone.

If you have any questions about the Honeywell LTE-IA, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Another option is to call us during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F at (888) 818-7728. We look forward to hearing from you!