DIY Security Systems Posts

Hi DIYers! Today, we wanted to show you a YouTube video review of one of our Lyric Kits made by Gabe from Security Baron. Gabe checks out each component of our Lyric AT&T-LTE 3-1 Kit. The kit includes a Lyric Panel, LTE communicator, 3 VERSA Contacts, a Honeywell PIR Motion and an LT-Cable.

We think this is a tremendous video, and we would really like to thank Gabe and Security Baron for putting it together. We certainly encourage all our customers to do unboxing videos just like this so that they can share their Alarm Grid experience with others. It makes us very proud to know that many people out there are making great use of our products.

In order to provide better information for our customers, we would like to go through and make some small notes on what was stated in the video. Although the video was super informative, we still can offer some further insight on the equipment that was presented.

First, the wireless door and window contacts featured in the video were actually VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Sensors. VERSA is the same company that manufactures the famous Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors. The VERSA Sensors are exactly the same as the 5800MINI Sensors, but they are available at a much lower cost. Those particular VERSA Contacts will work with the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System, as the 2GIG Go!Control and 2GIG GC3 Systems. Alarm Grid gets these sensors direct from VERSA to provide the lowest possible price for customers.

The VERSA Sensors are uni-directional devices that only send signals to the alarm system. They are not protected by any wireless encryption, but this is not a major concern for most users. However, Alarm Grid also offers a very similar kit that features encrypted door and window contacts. That kit provides Honeywell SiXMINICT Door and Window Contacts instead of the VERSA-2GIG Contacts. The bi-directional SiXMINICT Sensors use 128-bit AES encryption for added wireless protection.

The motion sensor shown in the video was a Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Sensor. This sensor works by using passive infrared (PIR) technology to detect the changes in infrared energy that occur with movement. Whenever a person or large object comes within the sensor's field of view (FOV), it will detect its energy signature and alert the security system. Just like the SiXMINICT Sensors, the SiXPIR Motion Sensor also uses bi-directional 128-bit AES encrypted communication. For optimal performance, the SiXPIR should be mounted at a height of between 7 and 9 feet.

The power cable that is shown is called the Honeywell LT-Cable. This handy accessory comes pre-prepared, and a user will not have to strip any wires to power on their Lyric Panel. By using the LT-Cable, the entire power-up process can be completed with just a simple screwdriver. Alarm Grid includes this cable with many of our system kits to make things easier for DIY users.

Not specifically mentioned in the video is the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A Cellular Communicator. This module is inserted into the side of the Lyric Panel, and it allows the system to communicate with the AlarmNet Servers through the AT&T LTE Network. Cellular communication is perfect for alarm systems because of its fantastic reliability and super fast speeds. By using this communicator, the Lyric System will be immediately capable of using a dual-path setup with both cellular and WIFI.

In the video, it is noted that the Lyric System works with Apple HomeKit. This is one of the best features of the Lyric, and pairing the system with HomeKit is very easy. By using the platform and a compatible HomeKit Hub, such as an iPad or Apple TV, a user can control their HomeKit devices remotely using their iPhone. We would also like to mention that the Lyric is compatible with Amazon Alexa through Total Connect 2.0.

For clarification, you can only stream live video on the Lyric Panel using a legacy Honeywell IP Camera. You cannot stream video directly from the panel using a newer Honeywell HD Camera, such as the Honeywell IPCAM-WIC2 mentioned in the video. Instead, these cameras can only be streamed through the Total Connect 2.0 service.

For DIY users, we also recommend adding a Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount. This device will allow the user to install the system without having to mount it to the wall. Instead, it can be conveniently rested on any sturdy table or desk. You can also mount the wireless sensors using double-sided foam tape. This will let you complete the entire installation process with nothing more than a screwdriver. You don't need to drill any holes or use any power tools!

The Honeywell Lyric is not the only alarm control panel offered from Alarm Grid. We also offer many great systems from other companies like Qolsys and 2GIG. Our website also features a wide-selection of pre-packaged wireless system kits to fit a user's unique needs. All of the systems we offer are perfect for pairing with our alarm monitoring services, which start at as little as $10 per month. We can even takeover many existing systems so that users can get started without having to purchase new equipment.

If you want to learn more about Alarm Grid, or if you need help planning a security system, we invite you to reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to send a quick email to support@alarmgrid.com and let us know what you are looking for. If you would prefer to speak with us by phone, you can call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you meet your security needs!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a quick look at the Qolsys Image Sensor. This handy device will produce a high-quality image whenever it detects motion while your Qolsys Panel is armed. This is great for confirming a break-in while you are away and for presenting evidence to the authorities.

The best way to think of an image sensor is to imagine a motion sensor with a built-in picture camera. This is similar to a security camera that responds to motion. The difference is that an image sensor will only produce a still image rather than a video clip. This is perfect for quickly checking to see if a break-in really occurred, or if the motion sensor activated due to some other cause. The still images have a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, and any abnormal activity can be quickly spotted.

Once the Qolsys Image Sensor activates, the produced image will be visible through Alarm.com. To access the image, the user can check the Alarm.com Mobile App or go to the Alarm.com website. The user can also tell Alarm.com to send them text and email alerts whenever their image sensor takes a picture. They can also receive push notifications from the Alarm.com App. That way, they will immediately know when there is a picture to check.

Keep in mind though that the user will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com in order to do this. For Alarm Grid customers, this is the Gold Plan or higher. This is a big reason why many Alarm Grid customers choose to go with image sensors instead of full-video security cameras. Using a conventional security camera will require upgrading to a Platinum Plan. However, the Gold Plan is already standard for accessing Alarm.com and using a Qolsys System anyway.

The motion detector on the Qolsys Image Sensor is quite effective in its own right. It can respond to motion from up to 30 feet away, and it will work from up to 400 feet away from the panel in open air. For best results, the sensor should be mounted at a height of roughly 7.5 to 8 feet. Pet owners will appreciate the fact that the Qolsys Image Sensor offers pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 40 pounds.

For compatibility, the Qolsys Image Sensor will work with any original IQ Panel System, as well as any IQ Panel 2 that has a Qolsys Image Sensor Daughtercard installed. Please note that the Image Sensor Daughtercard uses the same antenna slot as the PowerG Daughtercard used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems. As a result, there is no way for the IQ Panel 2 to use both an Alarm.com Image Sensor and PowerG Sensors. If a user has an IQ Panel 2 Plus and they want to use the Qolsys Image Sensor, they will need to remove the PowerG Daughtercard and insert the Image Sensor Daughtercard. Doing this will remove PowerG compatibility for the system.

However, the one advantage to using the IQ2+ and swapping out the PowerG Daughtercard is that the user will have the option of choosing either the 345 MHz or 433 MHz legacy daughtercard versions. If a user obtains a standard IQ Panel 2, they will only have the option of using 319.5 MHz sensors. The only way to use the Qolsys Image Sensor on an IQ2 System with 345 MHz or 433 MHz sensors is to get the IQ2 Plus and swap out the daughtercard.

The Qolsys Image Sensor, Qolsys Image Sensor Daughtercard and all Qolsys Systems are all available for purchase from Alarm Grid right now. Get one now to protect your home! If you need any help deciding on security equipment, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you.

For the past several years, the security industry has experienced a major shift in favor of DIY users. While alarm systems once required professional installation and programming, that is no longer the case today. The DIY route is now the optimal option for nearly any new alarm system user.

In order to understand this concept, it's first good to look at how security systems have changed. Old alarm systems were not user friendly. These were hardwired panels that featured intricate and complex programming options. This was not stuff that a user could figure out on their own. On top of that, sensors has to be wired directly to the panel, and wires had to be run throughout the building. Again, the average user was not able to complete these tasks on their own. This made professional installers a necessity. This was fine at the time, and many companies established thriving businesses around this model.

However, the security industry has been gradually evolving to favor DIY users. Wireless all-in-one panels began featuring touchscreen controls that made it possible for everyday users to perform their own programming. Sensors became wireless so that complex wire runs were no longer needed. The rise of IP and cellular communication allowed users to establish effective and reliable communication paths for their systems with minimal assistance. Smart home automation exploded in popularity, and many users got on board for these features alone. Today in 2019, alarm systems have truly become easier to use and more accessible than ever.

At Alarm Grid, we want you to understand that you can perform your own security system installation. You don't have to be a professional. You don't have to understand electrical theory or wiring. You don't have to be tech savvy. The key is to choose equipment that makes the process as easy as possible. Yes, there are still hardwired systems available that are truly best-suited for professional installations. Those systems are still very popular in their own right, and they are perfect for certain situations. But that doesn't mean they are right for the average home user. If you're a DIY user, a wireless system is almost always the way to go.

There are a few things you should get to accompany a wireless security system. The most obvious is wireless sensors. These are the devices that report to the panel when an event occurs inside the home. What's great about wireless sensors is that they can typically be mounted using a double-sided adhesive that comes often included. There's no need to drill any holes, and they only tool you will need is a screwdriver to install the batteries. You might also want a Honeywell LT-Cable to wire the panel to its plug-in power supply. This wire comes pre-prepared, and a screwdriver can complete the connection. Finally, a table or desk stand can prevent you from having to mount the panel to a wall.

A control panel. Wireless sensors. A desk stand. A screwdriver set. That's really all you need to get started. We have seen users achieve complete installations with those items alone. You don't need to pay for an installer. You can do this yourself. And if you're new to alarms, then what better way to get acquainted than installing your own system? If you're starting from scratch, you may as well design your own security system and build it the way you want it. This is truly the age of the DIYer, and we're here to help you.

The best way for a new user to get started is to reach out to Alarm Grid. Our security system planning team can help make sure that you get all the equipment you need and also that you avoid wasting your money on what you don't need. Then sign-up for an Alarm Grid monitoring plan. We provide top-quality alarm monitoring services, and we are partnered with one of the best alarm monitoring centers in the world. Plus, we offer free online and phone support and assistance for all of our monitored customers. So if you ever need any extra help installing or configuring your own system, our team will be ready to assist.

If you're new to home security, then a DIY installation is right for you. We know that taking the first step can be a little scary, but our team is here to help! The alarm systems of today are easy to work with, and they are perfect for new users. We encourage you to contact us through email at support@alarmgrid.com. 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 working with you and helping you design the perfect security system for your home.

Hi DIYers! Have you ever thought about using a security system to monitor your boat or camper? It's a little bit out of the ordinary, but it's a great way to ensure that your property is protected. It's almost no different from using a standard security system, you just need to get creative.

If you're ever away from your boat or camper, having alarm monitoring can provide you with peace of mind in knowing that your property is safe. Although people usually think about security systems for homes and businesses, there's no reason why an intruder couldn't break into a boat, yacht, RV or camper to steal property and cause damage. And with the technology available today, it is certainly possible to achieve a great setup. We recently heard about one boat owner who keeps his yacht protected using a 2GIG GC3 Security System. Why not do the same for your boat or camper?

There are just a few things to keep in mind if you decide a alarm system for your boat or camper is right for you. First is the equipment. The alarm panel you use will likely be no different than one used in a conventional setting. You will definitely want to use a wireless system since internal wiring will be difficult or impossible. This is fine since wireless systems are easy to use, and they offer tremendous performance. Most wireless systems can be installed without a professional, and they are rugged enough to withstand continuous travel.

For sensors, you really won't have to add too many. A good door contact sensor can immediately let the system know if someone enters your vessel. If you are afraid that the sensor might be exposed to water, then an outdoor contact might be a good idea. A great sensor for this purpose is the Honeywell 5816OD. Some users may want to add a motion sensor as well, but they should make sure it won't cause false alarms from its mounting location. You might also want to add a smoke detector and a CO detector to monitor for environmental issues as well. The Honeywell 5800COMBO can detect for both fires and carbon monoxide outbreaks.

We strongly recommend that any security system used for a boat or camper to use a cellular connection. Even if your boat or camper is equipped with WIFI, cellular connectivity can't be beat in terms of reliability. Plus, the WIFI service might be inactive or go out when the boat or camper is not in use. Cellular communication will keep your system monitored no matter where you take your vessel, provided that there is adequate cell signal in the area. So if you're out camping, and someone else opens your camper or RV, then you will know about it. This is also perfect for when you leave your boat docked during the off-season.

Most boats and campers with a security system will use a self-monitoring plan. This type of monitoring means that the user will receive a text alert whenever their security system is activated. The user will then need to alert the proper authorities to the situation. While central station monitoring is technically possible for a boat or camper, it can be very tricky if the boat or camper isn't always left in the same location. You would also need to provide a valid address for the vessel so that emergency services can reach it. For those reasons, self-monitoring is usually the way to go here. You can learn more about Alarm Grid's monitoring plans by checking our monitoring page.

One major perk of having an alarm system for your boat or camper is that you can use it for Z-Wave smart home automation. Every boat and camper has lights, and you can use smart home functionality to control them remotely or have them activate automatically with predetermined events. You can also get a smart thermostat for your yacht or RV and integrate it into the network as well. Everything will be controlled right from your phone using Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. With Z-Wave functionality, your boat or camper will be ready to party as soon as your disarm your system!

If you have a boat or camper that you'd like to get protected, we would love to help you out! Our security system experts are happy to help you design a new security system for your boat, camper, RV or yacht. We know exactly what you need to achieve a robust and reliable setup. If you would like to get started, please send an email to support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that we now offer Replacement Adhesive Tape for the Qolsys IQ DW MINI-S and a Replacement Magnet for all Qolsys Door and Window Contact Sensors. Both of these convenient accessories from Qolsys are available for purchase now from the Alarm Grid site.

Using double-sided mounting tape to install wireless sensors is a convenient option for many users. This way, a user will not have to use any screws or drill any holes into their wall. But if a user tries to adjust the sensor or mount it in a new location, they might find that the double-sided adhesive does not work as well the second time around. In that case, they might want to replace the double-sided mounting tape.

This mounting tape is specifically designed to fit the Qolsys IQ DW MINI and IQ DW MINI-S Sensors. Two pieces of double-sided are included - one for the sensor and one for the magnet. While this adhesive can technically be used with other sensors, a user might be better off getting a custom-sized piece of adhesive from their local office supply store if they have non-Qolsys sensors. Still, this is a convenient option for owners of an IQ DW MINI Sensor who want to easily re-mount and adjust their sensor.

The Qolsys Replacement Magnet is a relatively standard magnet for door and window contacts. This accessory is normally installed on the moving portion of the door or window. When the door or window is closed, the magnet should be placed within a half-inch of the sensor for proper operation. When the door or window is opened, the magnet will become separated from the sensor. This will release a reed switch inside the sensor and cause it to alert the security system. This way, the system will know that the door or window has been opened.

Although the Qolsys Magnet is specifically designed for Qolsys Sensors, a user should have no problem using it with door and window contacts from other manufacturers as well. The device is nothing more than a simple magnet that keeps the reed switch for a door and window contact closed. Still, this is a great accessory if you ever lose or damage your original magnet. Now you don't have to spend the money on a completely new sensor just because a small replacement component is needed! Alarm Grid also offers the Honeywell 5899, which is a similar magnet designed by Honeywell.

You can get the Qolsys Replacement Mounting Tape and the Qolsys Replacement Magnet right now from the Alarm Grid website. Also make sure to check out our monitoring page for more information about our monitoring services. As always, thanks for checking out Alarm Grid!

Hi DIYers! One of the best services we offer is video surveillance. This feature lets the user view the live feed for compatible security cameras that are installed throughout the property. Video surveillance truly represents an outstanding addition to nearly any alarm monitoring setup.

With our video cameras, you can get a live look at your property from anywhere at any time. All you have to do is pull up Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0 on your smartphone, login to your account, and navigate to the video section to view the camera feed. This is super convenient for checking to make sure that everything is alright inside your home or business when you receive an unexpected notification. Both Alarm.com Security Cameras and Honeywell Total Connect 2.0 Security Cameras are available.

One of the most important factors for us when providing you with video surveillance services is making sure that only you can view your security cameras. The video cameras we support are encrypted, and they only communicate across protected servers. There is no way for anyone other than the customer and those who are granted special permission to view the camera. This includes both the live video feed and any still images that are produced.

Many of our customers will be happy to know that there is no way for Alarm Grid technicians, employees or management to view your cameras. Both Alarm.com and Total Connect 2.0 maintain these conditions for the privacy of their users, and we would not have it any other way. If we ever need to access your account, we will only be able to load a "read-only" version, and any video device on your account will not be accessible. An example from Alarm.com can be seen in the picture below:

There may occasionally be situations where we need to access the customer's devices and settings for troubleshooting purposes. Even then, we still need the customer's permission to access this information. We can do this by requesting access, which the customer would then have to approve via email. If we obtain access in this manner, then it would still only be temporary for a set amount of minutes. After that, the customer would have to approve of us accessing their video devices.

Both Alarm.com and AlarmNet operate extremely secure severs, and their cameras utilize encrypted communication signals. Outsiders will have no way of accessing the video, and the user can have proper peace of mind in knowing that their privacy is always maintained. Alarm Grid takes the privacy of its customers very seriously, and we choose to work with Alarm.com and AlarmNet because of the high protection standards they maintain. We work very hard to ensure the security of all our customers whenever they receive video surveillance services from us.

In order to receive video surveillance, you must sign-up for one of our Platinum Level Monitoring Plans. These plans include all of the same great features of our lower level monitoring plans, along with support for video recording devices. However, there is an exception for the SkyBell DoorBell Cameras. These devices can be used with any existing monitoring plan, without having to upgrade to Platinum. The SkyBell Cameras provide an easy and efficient way to monitor the home's entryway and quickly see who is at the door.

If you have any questions about how we protect the privacy of our customers, or if you would like to learn more about our monitoring services, please reach out to us. You may email us any time at support@alarmgrid.com, or you may call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to working with you!

Hi DIYers! You may have heard the term "Dual Tec Motion Sensor" being tossed around at some point or another. The term refers to motion detecting sensors that use two forms of detection for picking up movement. Usually, these two methods are passive infrared sensing and microwave detection.

A common complaint with motion sensors is that they are known to cause false alarms when mounted improperly. This is usually caused by having the motion sensor placed near a window, a ceiling fan or an air vent. The motions that cause these false alarms are usually PIR-exclusive sensors that use only one method for detecting motion. Now, these sensors will generally work very well and won't cause any false alarms when mounted properly.

The reality is that most false alarms caused by motion sensors are the result of poor mounting. But having a second detection method for verification can go a long way towards preventing any system false alarms. Although proper mounting is still very important, you might be able to save yourself some major inconvenience by springing for a more-advanced motion detection sensor. This is where Dual Tec Motions can come into play.

Honeywell Dual Tec Motion Sensors use passive infrared (PIR) detection and microwave detection when looking for movement. In order for one of these devices to activate and alert the alarm control panel, both the PIR sensor and the microwave sensor must activate. Nothing will happen if only one part of the sensors is triggered. This can be very useful if a single technology sensor is prone to randomly activating due to local environmental sources. The name "Dual Tec" comes from the fact that the sensors use two technologies in detecting motion.

The PIR sensor in a Dual Tec Motion will work by looking for changes in infrared (IR) energy that occur with movement. Every person, animal and object gives off some amount of IR energy. If a large mass of IR energy from a person or large object moves within the field of view of the PIR sensor, then it will signal that motion is present. Meanwhile, the microwave sensor will send out continuous signals that are designed to bounce off of objects and return to the sensor at a consistent rate. If the signal pattern changes, then the sensor will assume that motion is present.

Although a PIR sensor can technically work by itself, a microwave motion sensor would cause too many false alarms on its own. This is because microwave signals can pass through objects and walls, and they could very easily detect movement that occurs outside the building. But the PIR sensor will not work through walls, so it will only detect motion that occurs from the inside.

However, pairing a PIR sensor with a microwave sensor in a Dual Tec Motion Sensor results in the perfect team. Even if the PIR sensor responds to flowing air or sunlight or some other local change in IR energy, the microwave sensor will keep it in check. Likewise, the PIR sensor will not respond to the outside movement that may trigger the microwave sensor. But both sensors will still respond very reliably to any real motion that is actually present in the building. And once that happens, it's game over for any intruders!

Honeywell offers Dual Tec Motion Sensors of all types. Their Dual Tec lineup includes wireless motion sensors like the Honeywell 5898, as well as wired motion sensors like the Honeywell DT8035. There's even a long range Dual Tec Motion, the Honeywell DT906, that is perfect for large commercial settings that require the highest level of protection possible. Honeywell has truly covered all their bases here!

You can get all of these great Honeywell Dual Tec Motion Detecting Sensors from the Alarm Grid website. If you need help deciding on a perfect motion detector, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com, or by calling us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

When it comes to protecting your home and your loved ones, the best thing you can do is stay proactive. It is much better to take action before a life-changing event occurs than after the fact. At Alarm Grid, we want everyone to stay protected, even those living in the safest locations.

*Icons made by Nikita Golubev & Freepik from www.flaticon.com

Maintaining a monitored security system is important even if you live in an area with few burglaries. Homes with security systems are less likely to be burgled, regardless of location. Additionally, you can use alarm systems to monitor for events other than burglaries, including fires, carbon monoxide outbreaks, broken HVAC systems, and flooding. A security system is truly the best way to protect your home, your possessions, and most of all, your family.

To find out the area where burglaries are least common, we constructed a list of burglaries per capita. Our methodology was simple. We used FBI crime data from 2018 and took the number of burglaries in a city and divided it by the city's population. We then multiplied that by 10,000 to get burglaries per 10,000 residents. Only cities with a population of 10,000 or higher were included in our list.

Before we present the list, we want to mention some interesting facts. The nine (9) least burglarized cities actually had 0 burglaries across 2018. As a result, they were all tied for first place.

Without further ado, let's check out the list for the Top 100 US Cities for Least Burglaries Per Capita:

Keeping your home safe is always a top priority. That is why Alarm Grid is here to help. We invite you to email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions about protecting your home. Keep in mind that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Note: This post is done in conjunction with our Top 100 Most Burgled Cities in America list. You can download and use a unmodified version of our "100 most and least burgled cities in America" infographic as well.

Throughout the years, there have been many security companies that have offered alarm systems that will only work with their monitoring services. These are known as "proprietary systems", and they greatly reduce the freedom and flexibility that a consumer has in choosing a security plan.

There are many tactics that companies use when providing proprietary systems for their customers. One common strategy is to entice users with a "free security system" in exchange for signing-up for monitoring services. Although a free security system certainly sounds exciting, it doesn't give the user very many options if it will only work with that particular monitoring company. If the user wants to use that system, then they essentially become married to that monitoring company. This presents them with very little flexibility in the long-run.

Another common tactic for these monitoring companies is to lock their customers into contracts so that they are obligated to pay for service for an extended period of time. If a user tries to cancel their plan, they might be on the hook for heavy cancellation fees. Then when the contract expires, the user will still not be able to choose a different monitoring company, as their proprietary system will only work with that company. Again, the user is still married to that company if they want to keep using that system. Make sure to always read the terms carefully before signing-up for monitoring service to ensure that you don't lock yourself into a contract. It can be very tricky to get out once you are locked in!

Not all monitoring companies that offer proprietary systems use these tactics. The important thing to remember is that the system will only work with their particular monitoring service. If a user tries to bring that system to a different company, then it will not work. Some companies will even up the game by using proprietary sensors that only work with their system. These sensors cannot be recycled and brought over to a new system, which means a user looking for a new monitoring provider has to start from scratch. Another strategy is to use a proprietary alarm system communicator. In some cases, it is possible to simply replace the communicator so that the system itself can be taken over. But it isn't always this easy.

We strongly encourage everyone in the market for a new security system to obtain non-proprietary equipment. It's very important to conduct proper research beforehand to make sure that you know exactly what you are buying. You should also obtain monitoring service that does not require you to lock yourself into an extended contract. That way, if you are ever dissatisfied with your monitoring company, you can easily take your system to a new company. You will not have to replace your existing equipment, and you will be able to make a seamless transition to a new company.

Alarm Grid only supports non-proprietary systems, and we never lock our customers into contracts. Our customers are free to terminate their service at any time if they believe they can obtain better monitoring services somewhere else. All of the systems we support can easily be taken over by a different monitoring provider if a user decides that switching is in their best interest. While we don't offer any free security systems, we will do our best to perform a takeover of existing equipment if possible. But keep in mind that we cannot do this with proprietary alarm systems, as they will not work with our services. While we would love to takeover existing proprietary alarm systems and equipment, it is simply impossible for us to do so.

If you ever need help choosing or designing a security system, we invite you to send us an email to support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We have a team of security experts who are happy to help you find the perfect non-proprietary alarm system for your needs. We also invite you to check our monitoring page for more information. The entire Alarm Grid team looks forward to providing you with top-quality monitoring service, while also ensuring that you always have the freedom of choice that you deserve as a consumer.

Hi DIYers! We're back with another video recap to help you learn about your security system. Joe and Jorge are back as usual, while Alarm Grid Team Member Jarrett is making his debut. Also, I even made a one-off video just for fun. Don't expect me in the regular video rotation though!

Here are the new Alarm Grid videos for December 6th thru 13th:

How to Switch Partitions on a Honeywell Vista System

Jorge teaches users how they can switch partitions on a Honeywell VISTA Security System. Partitions allow users to separately control a certain section of their alarm system, while the rest of the system remains in its current armed or disarmed state. Each partition can be assigned its own set of access codes to restrict access of any given user to only select portions of the security system. Additionally, Honeywell recently made partitioning control possible through Total Connect 2.0.

Finding the MAC and CRC on a Lyric Security System

Jorge shows users how they can the MAC address and CRC code on a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. This information is typically needed to register the system with an alarm monitoring company for monitoring service. The MAC and CRC codes can be found on the box for the system and underneath its back cover on a sticker. However, many users prefer to find the MAC and CRC codes through the system menus. This will require knowing the system's Installer Code, which is 4112 by default.

Changing the Battery in the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

In his much anticipated video debut, Alarm Grid Team Member Jarrett explains how to change the battery for a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Alarm System. To do this, you must first power down the system by accessing the appropriate menu option. Once the system has powered down completely, it can then be opened up, and the battery can be replaced. The Qolsys IQ2 Battery is designed to last for several years, and it will keep the system powered for up to 24 hours in the event of a power outage.

Using Phone Line Monitoring on an Interlogix Simon XT

Jorge teaches users how they can use phone line monitoring on a Simon XT Security System. Although phone line monitoring is possible, Alarm Grid does not recommend using this type of communication path. Phone line communication is known for being very slow, and it is quite unreliable. Instead, a much better option is to use cellular monitoring service with an Interlogix Simon XT. Cellular service is much faster and more reliable. Cellular connectivity will also allow the system to be used with Alarm.com.

Setting the Siren Timeout on a Simon XTi & XTi-5

Jorge talks about the siren timeout feature on the Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Alarm Systems. When an alarm occurs on an wireless Interlogix System, it will begin to produce a siren. The purpose of this siren is to alert those in the building to a serious event, such as a burglary or fire. To stop the siren, the user must disarm the system. However, if the system is not disarmed, the siren will continue to sound until the timeout period elapses. This setting determines how long the siren will last if the system is never disarmed.

Pairing the 2GIG SP1 Keypad with the 2GIG GC3

Joe shows users how to pair the 2GIG SP1 Wireless Keypad with the 2GIG GC3 Security System. The most common way to do this is through a WIFI pairing. The SP1 is a very useful wireless keypad that includes a built-in touchscreen controller. This keypad offers support for voice annunciation, smart home automation control, bypassing zones, producing system chimes and general arming and disarming. It is perfect for placing by secondary entrances in the user's home, such as their back doors, garage doors and basement entrances.

Using Z-Wave with an Interlogix Simon XTi and XTi-5

Joe discusses how it is possible to use Z-Wave smart home devices with a Simon XTi or Simon XTi-5 Alarm System. These systems can support Z-Wave devices once they have been activated with the Alarm.com interactive service. This is because the ADC Cellular Communicator actually doubles as a Z-Wave controller for the system. Once a user has set up a Z-Wave device with the system, it can be operated from the panel or from the Alarm.com website or mobile app.

Can I Use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 w-o Alarm.com?

Joe explains how the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 can technically be without the Alarm.com service. However, this will severely limit the functionality of the system. By doing this, the system will only serve as a local sound maker and as a fairly limited Z-Wave controller. All versions of the system come with some type of integrated cellular communicator. This module lets the system connect with Alarm.com for remote access and control. This is the only way to use the system with a central station for automatic emergency dispatch.

How Do I Reboot the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

In my first ever Alarm Grid video, I show you how to reboot the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. A user might need to reboot their IQ Panel 2 System because they are applying a firmware update. They might also do this because the panel is experiencing problems, and rebooting the system can be a good troubleshooting step. To perform the reboot, the user can select the reboot option in advanced settings. They can also choose to power down the system entirely and then manually power it back on.