Industry News and Discussions Posts

Hi DIYers! We are pleased to announce that the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i is now available for purchase from the Alarm Grid website. This is a capable wireless panel, all available at an affordable price. It is perfect for homes and small businesses looking for an effective security solution.

Although the Simon XTi-5i is considered a "budget" alarm system, it still offers the same great performance you would expect out of any modern alarm system. The system is essentially an upgrade over the current Simon XTi-5, but it has been revamped to enhance the end user experience. The 5" full-color touchscreen has been improved from the older models, and it feels more satisfying to control. We tested the touchscreen at ISC West 2019, and we gotta say, it's a major improvement.

New to the Simon XTi-5i is the ability to adjust the user interface (UI). You can have the color schemes for the system menus match those from Alarm.com. You will get the same great orange and white color scheme for the Simon XTi-5i as what you have on Alarm.com. This should help you feel more comfortable, whether you are controlling your system from the panel or from the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices. By using the mobile app, you can access your system from almost anywhere!

In order to access Alarm.com, you will need an Alarm.com Communicator. Both LTE cellular and dual-path options are available. Getting your Simon XTi-5i connected with Alarm.com will provide you with the most reliable alarm monitoring service possible. You will also be able to access Alarm.com through the mobile app to control your system in a variety of ways. This includes arming and disarming, checking system status, controlling Z-Wave devices, viewing Alarm.com Cameras, and more. Please note that you will need a Self Gold Plan or higher from Alarm Grid to access Alarm.com, and a Self Platinum level plan or higher is required for remote viewing of Alarm.com cameras. More information can be found on our alarm monitoring page.

The Simon XTi-5i will actually support the same communicators as all of the previous Simon Panels. We recommend using one of the following communicators:

• Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT (AT&T LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-VZ (Verizon LTE)
• Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-AT (AT&T LTE & IP)
• Alarm.com XT-511-US-DP-VZ (Verizon LTE & IP)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT (AT&T LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-VZ (Verizon LTE) (Must be FW 191C or higher)
• Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-TL (Telus LTE - Canada Only) (Must be FW 191C or higher)

Each of these communicators also doubles as a perfectly functional Z-Wave controller. This will allow you to start building a complete smart home network of Z-Wave devices. You can create scenes to have your Z-Wave devices activate automatically with certain system events or on a set schedule. This can definitely help you save money on energy costs and make your life more convenient. There are all sorts of Z-Wave devices you can add, including lights, locks, thermostats, water valves, and more!

In addition to a better touchscreen and revamped menus, the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i also packs some more power under the cover. The zone count has doubled up to 80 wireless zones. This is perfect for virtually any home or any small to medium sized business. You can even use two (2) hardwired Normally Closed (NC) contacts with the system and connect them to the main board. Just be aware that these hardwired contact sensors will still cut into the maximum 80 zone limit.

As far as sensor support goes, the Simon XTi-5i facilitates the same great 319.5 MHz sensors that its predecessors supported. This includes the wireless sensors from Interlogix and Qolsys. You can also use the Qolsys S-Line Sensors with the system, though they will not utilize encryption with the Simon XTi-5i. If you want encrypted sensors for the system, you will have to wait for the exclusive lineup of Interlogix Encrypted Sensors, which should be made available soon. It is unknown which form of encryption these sensors will utilize, but it is expected that they will work exclusively with the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i System.

You can now purchase the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i from Alarm Grid! If you have any questions about this exciting new system, please reach out to us! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. If you prefer to call us, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and telling you all about this great new panel!

Resideo has announced that there is an issue affecting certain Honeywell 6150 Keypads. This issue only affects 6150 Keypads manufactured within a certain time period. Any 6150 Keypad affected by this issue that was purchased through Alarm Grid should be returned to us for a free replacement.

According to Resideo, this issue may affect Honeywell 6150 Keypads that have a date code starting with "C107". It is unknown if this issue affects all 6150 Keypad with this date code prefix or just certain models within the batch. This date code is relevant to any Honeywell 6150 Keypad manufactured between April 17, 2019 and July 19, 2019. For that reason, Resideo is instituting a shipping and manufacturing hold on the Honeywell 6150 Keypad, effective immediately.

Resideo states that the issue in question affects the panic functions of the keypad. When an affected keypad is programmed to enable its dual-button press panic functions, the device will not function as intended. Because of this defect, any affected 6150 Keypad will have its dual-button triggers for panics not work correctly. However, the associated single-button panic inputs should still work as intended, if they are enabled.

On the VISTA P-Series Systems, Zone 95 is, by default, not programmed. However, for Alarm Grid customers who choose to use this panic it is suggested that it be set as an audible Fire Panic. This audible fire panic is triggered by pressing both the [1] and [*] keys together, or by pressing and holding the [A] function key on the left side of the keypad. The [A] function key is the top of the four (4) function keys at the left side of the keypad.

On the VISTA-TURBO Panels, such as the Vista-128BPT or Vista-250BPT, this is programmed as Zone 995, and it is enabled by default. These panels differ slightly in the way that keypad panic keys are programmed. But in the end, the functionality is very similar. Once the panic key is programmed, pressing both the [1] and [*] keys together or pressing the [A] function key can initiate the panic.

On the VISTA P-Series Systems, Zone 99 is, by default, set as a silent police panic. This silent police panic is triggered by pressing both the [*] and [#] keys together, or by pressing and holding the [B] function key on the left side of the keypad. The [B] function key is the second of the four (4) function keys from the top. But on the VISTA-TURBO Panels, this is programmed as Zone 999. It is also set, by default, as a silent police panic. Once enabled, the functionality on the TURBO Panels is the same as on the VISTA P-Series Systems.

Lastly, Zone 96 is, by default, not enabled on the VISAT P-Series Systems. But it is enabled by default, as Zone 996, on the VISTA-TURBO Panels. On the VISTA P-Series Systems, this button is often programmed as an auxiliary medical panic. On the VISTA-TURBO Panels, it is configured as an auxiliary medical panic by default. When this panic is programmed, it is triggered by pressing both the [3] and [#] keys together, or by pressing and holding the [C] function key on the left side of the keypad. The [C] function key is the third of the four (4) function keys when moving from top to bottom.

Only the Zone 95/Zone 995 or [1] and [*], and Zone 96/Zone 996 or [3] and [#] panic options are affected!

It is possible that your system has none, some, or all of these inputs programmed. This depends on your programming settings. But because of this defect, even if you have these inputs programmed, they may not work as intended. It is strongly recommended that you have the single-button panics enabled - those being the [A], [B], and [C] function keys - as there do not appear to be any issues with these single-button inputs. We are happy to help any Alarm Grid monitored customer program these buttons if necessary.

In addition to the Honeywell 6150, the following other keypads are also affected by this same issue:

• 6150PL2
• 6150ADT
• V15PACK
• V20PACK
• V20PTISPKNA

If you need to confirm the manufacture date on your 6150 Keypad, then there is a way to do this. However, it requires opening up the keypad. There are two (2) tabs at the bottom of the keypad that you will need to press in. We recommend using a small screwdriver to do this. Once the tabs have been pressed in, you will be able to separate the keypad from the back cover. Then on the circuit board, there will be a sticker with the date code printed in black. This date code consist of one (1) letter, followed by three (3) digits.

Resideo uses a unique process to decipher the date code. The letter C indicates that the 6150 was manufactured in 2019. If the code starts with any letter other than C, then your 6150 Keypad is unaffected. Then the three digit code corresponds to the day of the year. April 17th is the 107th day of the year. July 19th is the 200th day of the year. With that in mind if the date code reads any value between C107 and C200, then the 6150 may be affected.

The picture below shows the date code on a Honeywell 5828V Keypad. This keypad follows the same date code format as the 6150. Note that this date code reads B249, so it would NOT be affected by this problem.

If the product is still in the box, then you can alternatively check the date code on the sticker on the outside of the box. This can be see in the following images below. Note that the date code in these images reads C192, so this keypad may be affected.

Remember, if the date code on your Honeywell 6150 falls between C107 and C200, then it MAY be affected. Just because it falls within this range does not mean for sure that it is affected. The only way to determine for certain is to test the keypad. If you have any of the [1 + *], [* + #], or [3 + #] functions programmed, then you should test them to make sure they work properly. Remember to place your system on test mode before doing this to prevent false alarms! If you get the proper panic response, then you are fine. If not, then you must return the keypad to us if you purchased it from Alarm Grid.

Every customer who returns an affected 6150 Keypad will receive a complimentary Honeywell 6150RF Keypad as a replacement. The 6150RF is the exact same keypad as the 6150, except that it includes a built-in 345 MHz wireless transceiver for supporting Honeywell 5800 Series Wireless Sensors. The 6150RF is basically an "upgraded" 6150, so you're really getting an even better keypad. Please note that this offer is only valid thru the end of the month. That is August 31, 2019.

If you are in the market for a new keypad for a Resideo VISTA System, then now is a great time to get a Honeywell 6160 Keypad. The 6160 is an even BETTER keypad than the 6150. This is because the Honeywell 6160 is an Alphanumeric Keypad, while the 6150 is a Fixed English Keypad. You need an Alphanumeric Keypad if you want to make menu-level programming changes. With a Fixed English Keypad like the 6150, you are operating blindly when you enter programming. For that reason, trying to program a system with a 6150 is strongly discouraged. With that in mind, the 6160 is the better keypad in every aspect. We actually offer the 6160 for a lower price than the 6150 ($52.99 vs $54.99) because we want our customers to have a keypad that they can use to confidently program their systems.

If you are indeed affected by this issue, then we urge you to contact us as soon as you can. The best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as soon as possible. If you would prefer to call us, we can be reached at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F.

We sincerely apologize to anyone who may have been affected by this issue. But we promise to make things right and make sure that you have a keypad that works with all its functions as intended. Please reach out to us if you have any questions. As always, thank you for being a valued Alarm Grid customer.

After much anticipation, Resideo has finally released the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator for their flagship Lyric Security System. This now gives Lyric users a choice between two fantastic cellular coverage options in the AT&T LTE Network and the Verizon LTE Network.

For anyone who doesn't know, an alarm monitoring communicator is a very important accessory for an alarm system. This is the device that allows the panel to send and receive the signals that are necessary for alarm monitoring and remote smart home control. The Resideo Lyric Controller comes with a built-in WIFI card for this purpose. But you can also add a cellular communicator to serve as a backup communication path in case the internet ever goes down or becomes unavailable.

Previously, Lyric System users were restricted to the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator for cellular backup. This presented a problem for Lyric System users in areas not covered by the AT&T LTE Network. These users were forced to forgo the ever-important cellular backup for their systems. The Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator finally provides a much-needed answer for these users.

It is also important to pay special mention to the Verizon LTE Network itself. LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution". Cellular service providers like Verizon have been working hard to establish robust and powerful infrastructure for their LTE Networks over the past several years. These networks are not going away any time soon. The LTE networks represent both the present and the future for cellular communication.

By choosing an LTE communicator like the LYRICLTE-V, you are ensuring that your Lyric System can remain monitored for many years to come. Even as Resideo prepares to release the upcoming Resideo PROA7PLUS Wireless Security System, your Lyric Alarm System will still be supported. It will continue to work great for alarm monitoring and for smart home automation. The importance of the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V is that it is providing a long-term solution for your panel. This is more than just a communicator. This is a long-term investment to keep your Lyric Controller monitored well into the very distant future.

The LYRICLTE-V module is super easy to install. The process can be completed by any end user. First put the system into its cellular installation mode. You can do this by starting from the main screen and choosing Security > Tools > enter Master Code (default 1234, but usually changed) > Advanced > Install Cellular Module > Yes. Then just follow the onscreen instructions by pushing up on the right-side cover for the panel to reveal the cellular communicator slot. Insert the LYRICLTE-V, and reapply the side cover. Indicate on the Lyric Screen that you have installed the communicator, and the system will complete the process. You will then be able to activate the communicator for monitoring service. Be sure you have a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication before adding the module.

With its new cell card, your Lyric System will now be capable of utilizing dual-path communication. This means that it will be able to send and receive signals across IP and cellular. IP communication normally serves as the primary communication path, as it is usually faster than cellular. But having that cellular backup is crucial for ensuring that your system always stays monitored and connected. As long as one path is available, your Lyric System will be able to perform all of the functions necessary for alarm monitoring. This includes staying connected with the AlarmNet Servers and Total Connect 2.0.

In order to support the LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator, your Lyric System must be running Firmware Update MR9 or higher. As of summer 2019, this is the latest firmware release for the Lyric System. To upgrade the firmware, your Lyric System will need to be connected with the AlarmNet Servers. Since you won't be able to use the cellular communicator until you have MR9, you will need to use a WIFI connection to complete the upgrade.

Keep in mind that if you don't have WIFI access in your primary location, you can bring your Lyric Panel to a different location with WIFI access just for the sake of the upgrade. Then install and activate the LYRICLTE-V, and use a cellular-only path in your primary location. We know that many users don't have WIFI access in their homes. This work-around is perfect for these users, as they can get their systems on the necessary firmware and then use the communication path that works best for their situation. For more information on the MR9 Firmware Update, we strongly recommend reviewing this very recent blog post from Alarm Grid.

Finally, you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular communication if you want to take advantage of all the benefits that this communicator has to offer. Alarm Grid customers will want to choose a Gold Level monitoring plan or higher to unlock the full potential of the module. This will allow you to activate the communicator with Alarm Grid and provide you with access to the Total Connect 2.0 platform for remote security and smart home functionality. More information is available on our alarm monitoring page.

If you are not interested in Total Connect 2.0, we also offer a Cellular-Only Plan that will provide standard central station monitoring service and connectivity through cellular or cellular and IP. While we strongly recommend taking advantage of all the great features and remote access capabilities of Total Connect 2.0, we understand that some users may just want to keep things simple with non-interactive monitoring service. This Cellular-Only Plan is certainly an option if you want to activate a LYRICLTE-V module for no-frills alarm monitoring.

We are proud to say that the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator is now available for purchase on our site. This is the communicator recommended for any Lyric user who finds that Verizon service works best in their area. If you have better coverage from AT&T, the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator is still available. Remember, this has nothing to do with your standard cellular service provider. Your alarm system is completely separate from your smartphone. You can have an AT&T Phone and a Verizon Communicator for your alarm system. You should just pick whichever service works best in your area.

If you have any questions about the Lyric Alarm System, the new LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Cellular Communicator, or about alarm monitoring in general, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email super regularly, and we make sure to reply to any inquiry as soon as possible. You also have the option of calling us at (888) 818-7728 during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and answering all your important questions.

We have received news that T-Mobile and Rogers are both scheduled to shut down their 2G networks at the end of 2020. This is important for anyone using Alarm.com who is still using one of these communicators. Time is running out to upgrade your communicator and keep your system monitored!

We have talked about the ongoing 3G sunset on numerous occasions. Most 3G networks are set to be shut down by the end of 2022. Well the 2G sunset is even more pressing. Most of the 2G networks have already been shut down, and very few people are still using a 2G communicator for monitoring service. However, these people are still out there. They need to understand that if they don't take action soon, their panel will no longer provide monitoring service.

At this time, Alarm Grid only has a small number of customers using 2G communicators with their systems. These customers are using the 2G T-Mobile Network or the 2G Rogers Network in Canada to connect with the Alarm.com Servers. We want to make it very clear to these customers that if they do not replace their communicators by the end of 2020, they will no longer have active monitoring service.

We would also like take this opportunity to remind all our 3G customers that they will also have to switch to LTE in the coming years. Although the end of 2022 might seem far away, it certainly doesn't hurt to get a head start. An LTE communicator will provide faster and more reliable monitoring service, making it a great upgrade to make as soon as possible. And we're here to help you make the switch as easily as possible.

Fortunately, most Alarm.com Security Panels allow users to easily upgrade the cellular communicator for their systems. If you are still running a 2G communicator, then now is the time to make the transition to LTE. You can do this with an LTE cellular communicator. Start by powering down your panel by disconnecting its backup battery and unplugging its transformer. Then open it up (if necessary), and remove the old communicator. Install the new LTE communicator in its place, and power your panel back on. You can then contact us to activate your new communicator. If you already had cellular alarm monitoring, then there will be no need to change your monitoring plan.

Most of the LTE communicators available on our site connect with either the AT&T LTE Network or the Verizon LTE Network. You should choose whichever network provides better service in your area. Remember, this has nothing to do with your mobile service provider. Your smartphone and your security system are mutually exclusive devices. You can use a completely different cellular service provider for your alarm system.

If you are in the United States, then you should have no problem using an AT&T LTE communicator or a Verizon LTE communicator in your area. Just go with whichever service works better in your area. If you are currently using a Rogers 2G Communicator in Canada, then things are a little more complicated. We recommend checking this post we made on Alarm Monitoring in Canada.

And if you aren't sure of which communicator to get, you can always ask us for help. The best way to reach 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 normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you determine the perfect security option for your needs.

Hi DIYers! We have received news from Alarm.com that there will be a couple of new features coming to the ADC Mobile App next month. Customers will soon be able to setup video analytics and access the Alarm.com Knowledge Base for easy answers to their questions right from the app .

According to Alarm.com, these features will be made available for the Alarm.com Mobile App sometime mid-next month (July 2019). These features are already available from the website version of Alarm.com, but you will now be able to use them on the Alarm.com Mobile App for Android and iOS devices. We are sure that many Alarm.com users will take advantage of these mobile app features. Remember that you will need an appropriate alarm monitoring plan to access Alarm.com.

Video Analytics is a useful tool that allows you to get the very most out of your Alarm.com Cameras. This feature gives you ultimate control over when your cameras will start recording and when you will receive Alarm.com notifications. You can use Video Analytics to differentiate between people, cars and animals. You can also set activity zones so that triggers only occur in very specific areas. For example, you might have an alert set to trigger when a vehicle pulls into your driveway, but not when one drives past your house. Alerts can even be triggered based on direction or duration. This can be useful if you want to know when someone comes into a room or area, but not when they are coming out. And duration rules are good if you want to know if someone is loitering outside your home, but not if they are just walking by.

The Alarm.com Knowledge Base is a great tool if you want to get fast answers regarding your Alarm.com service. This is the same resource the technicians at Alarm Grid often use to get answers for Alarm.com products and services. Now if you have a question, you can quickly and conveniently get an answer from the Knowledge Base on the Alarm.com Mobile App. Everything from using the Alarm.com service to configuring your security cameras is available from this platform.

We think these new mobile app features will be very useful for Alarm.com users. Of course, Alarm Grid monitored customers can still contact us if they have questions regarding their Alarm.com service. We offer free support for monitored customers. If you ever need to contact us, the best way to do so is to email 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 answering any questions you might have.

Hi DIYers! If you have an Alarm.com 3G Cellular Communicator, the time to activate it is NOW. This is your very last chance. If you do not get your Alarm.com 3G Communicator activated by the end of Friday, June 28th, you will be unable to do so. The deadline to activate is almost here.

The actual cutoff date for Alarm.com 3G activations is Sunday, June 30th. However, Alarm Grid does not perform activations on the weekends. If you want to activate your Alarm.com 3G Communicator for use with Alarm Grid monitoring services, you must do so by the end of this Friday. Our team will get your communicator up and running for alarm monitoring service so that you can use Alarm.com.

By activating an Alarm.com Cellular Communicator and signing up for cellular alarm monitoring service, you can start using your system with the Alarm.com platform. Alarm.com allows you to arm and disarm your system, check current system status, control Z-Wave smart home devices, view the live feed for Alarm.com IP Cameras, and more. You can access this great service using the convenient Alarm.com Mobile App on your Android or iOS device.

An activated 3G communicator will provide consistent and reliable monitoring service until the 3G networks are shut down. AT&T is planning to shutdown their 3G network in February 2022, and Verizon is expected to shutdown their 3G CDMA network around this time as well. Remember, if you deactivate a 3G communicator after the cutoff date for any reason, you will not be able to reactivate it. Trying to reactivate a communicator is considered the same as an initial activation.

If you miss the deadline for activating an Alarm.com 3G Communicator, you will still be able to activate an LTE communicator for use with Alarm.com. Cellular service providers have stated that they plan to keep their LTE networks activated well into the very distant future. Getting an LTE communicator is the best way to provide long-term monitoring service for your panel.

At this point, a 3G communicator is only a temporary solution. Additionally, an LTE communicator will provide faster connection speeds than a 3G communicator. The difference isn't huge for monitoring itself, but LTE can make a big difference when it comes to home automation. Anyone looking to keep their system running for many years to come should make the jump to LTE as soon as possible.

If you need to activate an Alarm.com 3G Communicator, please reach out to us immediately. You may email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728. Remember our office hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you.

Hi DIYers! Have you activated your 3G or 4G cellular communicator yet? If not, you are running out of time. All 3G and 4G communicators must be activated by June 26, 2019 for AlarmNet and June 30, 2019 for Alarm.com. After that, it will no longer be possible to activate these modules.

This is your very last chance to purchase a 3G or 4G communicator. If you wait much longer, we won't be able to guarantee that it will arrive to your address in time for you to install and activate it. And if you are still sitting on a 3G or 4G communicator, the time to activate it is now. You should reach out to Alarm Grid as soon as possible to get started with monitoring service. The following plans will work for cellular communication - Gold, Self-Gold, Platinum, Self-Platinum, Cellular-Only. Please read this blog post for more information about our monitoring plans.

Alarm Grid is still holding a sale on the iGSMV4G Communicator and the iGSMV4G-TC2 Kit. These products are currently available for $50 and $60, respectively. Buying a iGSMV4G from Alarm Grid right now is a strong choice if you want to get a VISTA Series System connected for cellular monitoring service for a very affordable price. More information about this sale can be found in this recent blog post.

Keep in mind that deactivating a communicator and then reactivating it counts as activating. If you discontinue monitoring service at any time after June 26th for AlarmNet and Total Connect 2.0 or June 30th for Alarm.com, you will not be able to reactivate your old 3G or 4G communicator. This is something to consider if you expect that you may move or relocate your system sometime in the near future. At this time, it is no longer possible to activate a CDMA communicator.

Remember, a 3G, 4G, or CDMA communicator is only a temporary solution at this point. AT&T will be shutting down their 3G/4G cellular network in February 2022, and Verizon is expected to shutdown their CDMA network around this time as well. Any already-activated alarm monitoring communicator that connects with one of these cellular networks provide reliable monitoring service until that time. After that, it will be obsolete.

Getting a 3G or 4G communicator in the next few days for a quick activation is a viable option. However, the best option is to get an LTE cellular communicator for your system. Both AT&T and Verizon have stated that they will support their LTE networks for many years to come. An LTE cellular radio is the best way to ensure that your security system will receive fast and reliable monitoring service well into the very distant future. We have many LTE communicators available for purchase on our website.

If you need help choosing a communicator, or if you are trying to activate a communicator before the cut-off date, please contact us as soon as you can. The best way to get a hold of us is to email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Our team will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond as soon as possible. If you would prefer to call us, we are available at (888) 818-7728. Remember that our business hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. You must schedule an activation during these hours. We look forward to hearing from you and activating your system for monitoring service.

Alarm Grid is aware that the Total Connect 2.0 Service from Resideo was experiencing server problems last night. Users were unable to login, and notifications from TC2 were delayed. The issue has since been identified and fixed by Resideo. We apologize for any inconvenience this caused.

We do not expect any further issues to occur. However, if you notice any problems with Total Connect 2.0, we encourage you to report them to us at your earliest convenience. The best way to notify us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email and report back to you as soon as possible.

Hi DIYers! We would like to recognize our friends at Qolsys for their success at ESX 2019 in Indianapolis, IN. The IQ Panel 2 Plus System won "Best in Show" in the TechVision Challenge. The system also won an Innovation Award in the Intrusion Systems category. Congratulations Qolsys!

The ESX Innovation Awards are designed to recognize innovation and excellence in the security industry. The awards are held annually at the Electronic Security Expo (ESX) in Indianapolis, IN. Judges select 25 winners of "Innovation Awards" in various categories. Of these 25 winners, a select few are invited in the prestigious "TechVision Challenge". A representative presents the product to a panel of judges and explains how it pushes the industry forward. The judges select a single "Best in Show" winner based on the presentations.

The IQ Panel 2 Plus System started the event by winning an Innovation Award in the category of Intrusion Systems. From there, the system was invited to participate in the TechVision Challenge. Thanks to their excellent presentation and the phenomenal features of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, Qolsys managed to take home the top prize of "Best in Show". This is the 2nd time Qolsys won these awards. The original IQ Panel 2 System also won "Best in Show" in the TechVision Challenge in 2016. This continued success demonstrates the abilities of Qolsys and the fantastic security systems they put out.

It's easy to see what separates the IQ Panel 2 Plus from the rest of the pack. The system supports 128 wireless zones and includes a built-in LTE cellular communicator (AT&T or Verizon) for connecting with Alarm.com. An integrated WIFI card allows for dual-path connectivity right out of the box. There is also a Z-Wave Plus (500 Series) controller for establishing a convenient and effective smart home network.

Other features include automatic Bluetooth disarming, the ability to livestream compatible Alarm.com Cameras, partitioning and facial recognition. End users also appreciate its sleek, modern design and its beautiful 7-inch display screen that makes it a joy to use everyday. Each IQ Panel 2 Plus supports PowerG Sensors and one legacy frequency. The 319.5 MHz version comes standard, but users can alternatively choose 345 MHz or 433 MHz.

The IQ Panel 2 Plus is available for purchase right now from the Alarm Grid website. It is great for pairing with Alarm Grid's monitoring service. You will need a Gold Plan or higher to activate the cellular communicator and get the system connected with Alarm.com. If you have any questions about the IQ Panel 2 Plus or about our monitoring service, please reach out to us at support@alarmgrid.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you're looking for reliable alarm monitoring service in Canada, then Alarm Grid is here for you! We happily monitor many Canadian homes and businesses and provide people with the peace of mind that they deserve. Our company offers central station monitoring services throughout Canada.

Many Canadians wonder if we can provide central station monitoring services for their homes and businesses. The answer to that question is yes. Not only can we connect Canadian security systems with a 24/7 central monitoring station, we can also ensure that emergency services will be sent out during break-ins, fires, carbon monoxide gas outbreaks and medical crises. We are proud to offer these important services to homes and businesses throughout Canada.

What is Central Station Monitoring?

First, it's important to understand what exactly is central station alarm monitoring. When a security system goes into alarm, the control panel sends out a distress signal using its communicator. This signal is routed to a central monitoring station that operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year (366 on leap years).

The incoming signal will be immediately received by a highly trained operator, who will take action based on the type of signal and the user's account settings. The typical protocol is to contact the end user and make sure everything is okay. If the operator is unable to reach the end user, or if the end user gives indication that they need help, the operator will then request emergency dispatch to the area. Thanks to alarm monitoring, many criminals have been successfully apprehended, and countless lives have been saved.

In order for central station monitoring to work, the security system must be able to send out various types of signals during alarm and other events. These signals must travel across an established communication network and reach the central station. Most systems send out signals across a cellular network and/or an IP network. Alarm Grid recommends using cellular communication whenever possible, as it offers superior reliability. However, IP-only communication can still serve as a viable option.

Alarm Grid central station customers in Canada receive monitoring service from Rapid Response Monitoring Services (RRMS). The company operates two (2) central stations, located in the United States (Southern California and New York State). When an alarm comes through from a Canadian security system, RRMS will have no problem contacting the end user in Canada and ensuring that emergency dispatch is sent out, when necessary.

Alarm Monitoring in Canada

Central station monitoring requires that an alarm system is capable of sending out emergency signals whenever alarm events occur. These signals must be able to successfully reach a central monitoring station. This is the only way for an end user to receive automatic emergency dispatch when they need it most.

An important consideration must be made when alarm monitoring service is conducted internationally. The security system will need to communicate across a network that is carefully designed for devices in the country where the system resides. For IP communication, this is no problem. Internet Protocol (IP) is relatively universal, and an IP device from one country should have no problem connecting with the local networks in different country. But things become a little more tricky when cellular communication is considered.

Cellular communication networks are established by service providers specific to that country of installation. Each service provider wants to ensure that only their customers are able to communicate across their networks. That is why they outfit their phones and other cellular devices with communicators that are designed to work with their unique networks. This is very important for these service providers to maintain and grow a successful business.

The cellular networks in Canada are different from those in the United States. If you bring a Canadian mobile device into the United States, it will usually need to roam to a cellular network unique to the area in which it is being used. If the device is unable to roam to a different network, then cellular communication will be impossible. The same is true if you use an American alarm monitoring communicator in Canada. The American communicator will need to roam to a Canadian cellular network.

But roaming to an international network isn't always easy. You cannot always expect a device from one country to work across a random cellular network in a different country. This is only possible if two cellular service providers from different countries have established a deal to allow their respective devices to roam to the other company's cellular networks.

Even then, this isn't always that simple. Most cellular service providers will charge roaming fees when a customer uses a device on an international network. For cellular alarm monitoring service, these fees are incurred by the company that operates the necessary communication servers. These are companies like Resideo's AlarmNet and Alarm.com. Those fees are then passed on to the alarm monitoring company.

Cellular roaming can result in high fees. As a result, many companies that operate alarm monitoring communication servers will shut down service for any security system that uses cellular roaming to connect with their servers. Only certain companies will allow alarm communicators to use roaming to connect with their networks. Fortunately, cellular communicators for alarm systems don't usually change locations once they've been installed. But, it's important to purchase a cellular communicator that is meant to work in the area of installation.

Most of the alarm monitoring communicators sold on the Alarm Grid website are designed for use in the United States. Only a small number will roam to a Canadian cellular network. And even then, some companies that operate alarm monitoring communication servers will not allow this. If you want cellular monitoring service in Canada, you will need a Canadian communicator or an American communicator that can roam to a Canadian cellular network. If you go with the latter, you must make sure the server operator won't shut down the service.

Fortunately, Alarm Grid does offer a few reliable options for Canadian users.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE

Perhaps the best option for Canadian customers is the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE version. This is an excellent security system for both residential and commercial use. The panel features a beautiful 7-inch full-color touchscreen display, and its sleek, modern design allows it to fit-in nicely with almost any decor. The system supports 128 wireless zones and great features like automatic Bluetooth Disarming, live streaming from compatible Alarm.com Cameras, partitioning, facial recognition and built-in Z-Wave Plus control. These features help to make the IQ2+ one of the most complete and robust systems available.

But the reason why the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE is perfect for Canadian users is that the built-in AT&T LTE Communicator will roam to the Rogers LTE Network in Canada. Anyone living in an area covered by the Rogers LTE Network can expect the IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE to work reliably. Alarm.com won't shut down the connection, and Qolsys has informed us that there should be no issues. Please note that you will need a Gold Plan or higher (Self or Full) to use the AT&T LTE Communicator and connect with the Alarm.com Servers.

Additionally, the system also includes an integrated WIFI card. This means that a dual-path setup will be possible right out of the box. In fact, this is currently the only dual-path option that Canadian customers can purchase from our website. Each IQ Panel 2 Plus System can support PowerG Sensors that utilize 128-bit AES encryption and can communicate with the system from up to 2,000 feet away in open air. You will also have the choice of one legacy sensor frequency. These frequency options are 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz and 433 MHz. These frequencies are for Interlogix and Qolsys, Honeywell/Resideo and 2GIG, and DSC legacy RF sensors respectively.

The following IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems will work across the Rogers LTE Network in Canada:

• IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE 319.5 MHz - Supports PowerG & legacy 319.5 MHz Sensors
• IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE 345 MHz - Supports PowerG & legacy 345 MHz Sensors
• IQ Panel 2 Plus AT&T LTE 433 MHz - Supports PowerG & legacy 433 MHz Sensors

Please note that the Verizon LTE Version will not work in Canada. This is because the communicator will not roam to a Canadian cellular network. Additionally, Qolsys also offers a Telus LTE version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. At this time, we do not offer the Telus LTE variant on our website. However, if you are able to purchase an IQ Panel 2 Plus Telus LTE System, we will be happy to activate it and provide reliable cellular monitoring service.

Interlogix Telus LTE Communicator

The Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-TL and the Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL are both Telus LTE Communicators for the Interlogix Simon Series Systems. With the impending sunset of 3G networks, we strongly recommend purchasing an LTE communicator for your alarm system. This makes the Interlogix Telus LTE Communicators a great choice for Canadian users. If you don't need the advanced features of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you can certainly do well with an Interlogix Simon System and a Telus LTE Communicator.

Interlogix Systems have long been regarded as excellent budget and economical security systems. They are relatively basic in terms of functionality, and they will provide reliable and trustworthy monitoring service for the end user. The Simon lineup includes the Interlogix Simon XT, the Interlogix Simon XTi, the Interlogix Simon XTi-5, and the Interlogix Simon XTi-5i. All four systems can support the Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-TL and the Alarm.com XT-511-CA-TL. But please note that the Simon XT must be running at least firmware version 1.3 to use a cellular communicator. All versions of the XTi, XTi-5, and XTi-5i can support the module. Remember though, you will need a Gold Plan or higher (Self or Full) from Alarm Grid to support the module. For more information on upgrading a Simon Panel to LTE, please see this helpful FAQ.

Most Interlogix Simon Panels support up to 40 zones, and the cellular communicator add-on also functions as a Z-Wave controller for smart home automation capabilities. The communicator will let the system connect with the Alarm.com service. This will allow you to control your system remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App. You can also access the app to view Alarm.com Cameras and control Z-Wave devices. While there are certainly more robust systems available, an Interlogix Simon System is still more than serviceable for many homes and smaller businesses.

Please note that the Interlogix Telus LTE Communicator is a special order item for us. It may take longer than average to arrive in the mail. Keep this in mind when ordering this product.

IP Only Monitoring

Although cellular monitoring is recommended due to its exceptional reliability, you can still go with an IP only monitoring setup. In fact, many users prefer this because of the lower monitoring costs. If you have reliable internet service, then this can work quite well. Just remember that if your internet does go down, then your home or business will be vulnerable. Alarm Grid is not responsible for internet outages, so do this at your own risk.

The thing with IP only monitoring is that you will not be able to use Alarm.com. This is because accessing Alarm.com requires a compatible cellular communicator. For that reason, you will want to use an AlarmNet System instead. And the only systems that can access AlarmNet360 and Total Connect 2.0 are those from Resideo (formerly Honeywell). But despite those restrictions, you are free to choose from virtually any Resideo Security System from our website.

Alarm Grid recommends the Resideo Lyric Alarm System for any Canadian user looking to go the IP only route. This system comes with a 2.4 GHz WIFI communicator built-in, so you won't need any additional equipment to connect it to your local IP network. It can support 128 wireless zones, 72 Z-Wave devices and nearly all of the devices from the Honeywell 5800 Series. It can also support its own lineup of Honeywell SiX Series Sensors that offer 128-bit AES encryption and a 300-foot nominal wireless communication range.

By going with IP only monitoring service, you can save money with a Bronze or Silver Plan instead of purchasing a Gold Plan. However, you will still need to upgrade to Platinum if you want video surveillance service. All of our plans other than standard Bronze include access to Total Connect 2.0 so that you can control your system remotely. The Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App can be downloaded for free from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. This is an outstanding platform for Arming and Disarming, checking current system status and controlling your Z-Wave smart home devices from anywhere.

Sign-Up for Alarm Monitoring in Canada!

Alarm Grid welcomes anyone in Canada who wants dependable and trustworthy monitoring service. We already provide exceptional service and support for hundreds of Canadian customers. We would love for your home or your business to join our growing family. To get started, please visit out alarm monitoring page to learn more about the monitoring plans we offer.

And if you have any questions or concerns about alarm monitoring, we would certainly like the opportunity to speak with you. The best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and respond back as quickly as possible. If you would prefer to speak on the phone, we can be reached at (888) 818-7728. Our regular office hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you and monitoring your home or business for many years to come!