Industry News and Discussions 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! We are very excited to announce that Qolsys has released the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F Wired to Wireless Converter. This module replaces the IQ Hardwire 16-S, and it adds the ability to use 2-wire smokes with a compatible wireless system. It features 16 hardwired zone terminals.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F works similar to any wired to wireless converter module. The hardwired sensors will connect directly with the 16-F converter. The converter will then send out a wireless 319.5 MHz signal to communicate with compatible alarm systems. This makes the IQ Hardwire 16-F perfect for users of old hardwired systems who want to upgrade to a newer wireless system. The user will be able to bring all of their old hardwired security sensors to their new system.

The 319.5 MHz signal makes the 16-F compatible with many great systems. These include the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus with 319.5 MHz Daughtercard, the original IQ Panel and the Interlogix Simon Series Systems. The module will use rolling code encryption when communicating with the IQ2 and IQ2+ Systems. However, the signals will not be encrypted when used with other systems. Please keep frequency compatibilities in mind when purchasing a wired to wireless converter. If you have a 345 MHz system, a Honeywell 5800C2W will work instead. However, that module will not support 2-wire smokes.

The first 15 zone terminals on the IQ Hardwire 16-F are for Normally Open or Normally Closed hardwired security sensors. But the support for 2-wire smokes is what really helps the IQ Hardwire 16-F stand out from other converters. The 16th zone on the module is specifically designed for Normally Open 2-wire smoke detectors. This versatile zone is capable of supporting up to ten 2-wire smoke detectors when they are wired in parallel. Please note that 4-wire smokes and carbon monoxide sensors cannot be used with the IQ Hardwire 16-F.

Alternatively, the zone can also be used with any Normally Open sensor if the user would prefer that instead. Each zone requires a 4.7k resistor wired in parallel (NO) or series (NC). This is true even if the zone is not used. All of the necessary resistors come included with the device. Note that the included resistors are color-coded Yellow-Violet-Black-Brown- Brown. This can be helpful to know if you ever need to find replacement resistors.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is available for purchase now from the Alarm Grid website. This is a great module for anyone upgrading from an older hardwired system to a new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus. Get the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F now!

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! Even though 4G and LTE communication have both been around for quite some time, there is still much confusion associated with these terms. We thought that it would be nice to take the time to cover these terms in a little more detail and explain what they mean for alarm monitoring.

Recently, we came across an article that covers the 4G standard in great detail. The term "4G" is nothing more than a certain standard of wireless communication. The standard was established to avoid confusion as cellular communication speeds reached unprecedented levels. When 4G first came out, there was no established standard. For marketing purposes, cellular carriers and manufacturers were applying the 4G label to devices with widely varying speeds. The standard was established to avoid confusion and to give a more formal definition of what is "true 4G". In order to comply with the 4G standard, a given wireless protocol must meet a certain speed or bandwidth.

Meanwhile, "LTE" is a specific wireless protocol that comes very close to meeting the 4G standard. In fact, before "true 4G" was established, most experts considered LTE to represent 4G speeds. That is why you will commonly hear the term "4G LTE" tossed around. It's really just marketing. Many protocols are allowed to use the 4G label without actually reaching 4G standards. This is because they arrive so painstakingly close that the issue is really overlooked. In reality, very few wireless protocols have actually reached the true 4G standard. Some examples of protocols that have achieved the true 4G standard include LTE-Advanced and WiMAX 2.0.

Long story short, 4G is a communication standard, while LTE is an actual type of wireless communication.

At this time, we do not offer any cellular communicators that operate at speeds that officially meet the true "4G" standards. Despite the name, 4G LTE is not actually up to the true 4G standard, unless it is LTE-Advanced. However, not reaching true 4G speeds is of very little concern for the typical security system. An alarm system only needs to send very small amounts of data at a time. This is no where near the amount needed for more data-heavy activities, such as streaming a movie or real time gaming. Even live streaming for security cameras is still being done across IP networks, which offer faster speeds than cellular networks.

With the extremely small data packets that are used for alarm monitoring, increasing speeds and overall bandwidth will not do much for improving overall user experience. Instead, it's more important to reduce latency, or the delay between signal transmissions. Remember, there is a lot that goes into any system transmission. It must go from the security system, to an interactive service like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, and finally to either a central station or the end user. If any of these transmissions experiences high latency, then the overall process takes longer. Fortunately, the industry has taken great strides to reduce latency in recent years. We can now confidently say that alarm systems now communicate faster and more reliably than ever before.

In the near future, it's fair to expect the term "5G" to be thrown around as well. Just like with the hype that came from "4G LTE", it's probable that the initial "5G Networks" won't actually hit the true "5G Standard". Keep in mind that this doesn't really have a large effect on alarm systems. Any network that even comes close to 5G will be ridiculously fast for an alarm system. Again, the key is to reduce latency, not necessarily increase speed - though increased speed is never a bad thing.

The introduction of 5G Networks should still bring good things for the security and smart home industries overall. Most notably, it will allow smart home devices to respond even more quickly upon inputting a command. It will also allow for more reliable streaming of security cameras through mobile apps. But it's still safe to assume that 5G communicators will still not be made available for quite some time. However, we are looking forward to the new and incoming technology just like everyone else. We hope that you will continue to join us for the ride as we provide you with the protection and security you deserve.

At some point or another, you may have come across some type of "no-fee" monitoring service that promises home or business protection at absolutely no cost. Like most things that are too good to be true, this one is as well. Any type of "no-fee" monitoring service is a bait and switch.

So how do these scams work? Well, it is usually as simple as a classic bait and switch tactic. A company may offer a product, such as a home alarm system or a security camera, that promises certain functions and features at no additional cost beyond the initial purchase price. Although there may be advanced and additional features available beyond this base level, there's still a level of trust put into place here. The customer bought the product expecting to be able to use it for certain functions and features, without having to pay any type of additional cost or fee.

However, the switch occurs when the company decides to convert these free features into a "premium service". Suddenly, what was once free now costs a monthly or yearly subscription plan. In other words, cold hard cash. It goes without saying that many of the early customers would not have purchased the product had they been aware of the company's plan from the beginning. Unfortunately, they now have sunk cost involved in the product. The customer might feel obligated to pony up money for the reoccurring subscription service, even though this was never their original intention. While "no-fee" was the original promise, the customer received the exact opposite.

The truth is that "no-fee monitoring" is impossible. It is a myth. It can't exist because monitoring services cost money. Also, data and information storage costs money. A company is not going to offer these services to a customer without receiving something in return. A recent lawsuit proves this exact point. One company thought they could lure in customers with "no-fee" promises that they ultimately couldn't maintain. Now their customers are upset because they were wrongly promised something that was too good to be true.

Countless people would love the possibility of receiving monitoring services at no cost. But this will never happen. Remember, it costs money to maintain central monitoring stations and to keep data servers operating. At the end of the day, these costs will always trickle down back to the customer. The best thing you can do is get on board with an honest, transparent alarm monitoring company that will treat you right and provide you with the services you need. That is where Alarm Grid comes into play.

If you are interested in Alarm Grid monitoring services, please press the orange "Alarm Monitoring" button at the top of this page. You may also email us any time at support@alarmgrid.com. If you would prefer to speak directly with a security professional, please call (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm M-F. We look forward to working with you and keeping your homes and businesses safe.

There was recent news that the newest firmware update for the Logitech Harmony Smart Home Hub restricts local access to the device. Because of this, there are now many users who cannot control their connected smart devices. The problem has mainly affected those using third-party API's.

The firmware update was released a couple of weeks, and there have been several complaints. Many users have reported being unable to control their connected devices, including things like smart TVs, sound systems and more. Both the Harmony Hub and its associated remote have been affected by the issue. With the update, it is now virtually impossible to use most third-party devices with the Harmony Hub.

Users who have been impacted are now essentially left with two options. They must either replace their smart home equipment with devices that are officially supported by the Harmony Hub, or they must buy a new smart hub entirely. While Logitech states that this was done for security purposes, it has left many people without a properly functioning smart home system.

This goes to show the advantage of using smart home automation equipment that is tested, approved and run through encrypted and secure servers. Of course, we can provide this with our alarm monitoring service. Alarm Grid offers connectivity with the Total Connect 2.0 and the Alarm.com platforms, both of which are great for use with a smart home. Using automation through one of these networks will ensure that your setup is secure, and it won't suddenly stop working if insecure methods are shut down.

Alarm Grid provides support to get your system and home automation devices set up with excellent platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Samsung SmartThings. We even offer the state-of-the-art Honeywell Lyric Controller, which is one of the few wireless HomeKit-compatible alarm systems available today! With Alarm Grid, you can count on the fact that your smart home setup will not become bricked or lose features.

If you want to learn more about the monitoring plans we offer and how we can help you achieve a robust smart home, please do not hesitate to reach out to us! You can email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728. Our normal business hours are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you so that we can help you design the perfect smart home!

Hi DIYers! Well, we're finally at the sunset for 2018. The year certainly was eventful for Alarm Grid, as we had many exciting announcements throughout the year. We started carrying many new products, and we reached some huge milestones along the way. Here are some highlights of 2018:

Honeywell SiXMINICT Made Available - We started offering the Honeywell SiXMINICT in January 2018, and it quickly became one of our most popular sensors. It offers the same 128-bit AES encryption found in the larger SiXCT, but in a more compact package. The wireless door and window contact is also now included in many of our encrypted Lyric System Kits.

Our VISTA Cheatsheet was Released - Also in January, we released our Honeywell VISTA System Cheatsheet. This guide has proven to be an extremely valuable resource in helping DIY users quickly find useful information about a VISTA P-Series System. The cheatsheet provides quick and handy references for the VISTA 15P, VISTA 20P and VISTA 21iP Systems.

Release of 2GIG SP1 Keypad - February brought us the release of the 2GIG SP1 Wireless Keypad. This became the premier option for a secondary access point on a 2GIG GC3 System. Unlike its little brother, the 2GIG SP2 Keypad, the SP1 Keypad provides complete voice annunciation, smart home automation features and a convenient 5-day weather forecast.

VISTA LTE Communicators - In March, VISTA owners rejoiced, as a Verizon LTE Communicator became available! With the release of the Honeywell LTE-XV, Honeywell VISTA users could start enjoying the fast and reliable connectivity that only an LTE Network can offer. For users who wanted to connect with the AT&T LTE Network, the Honeywell LTE-XA was also released later in the year.

Changes to our System Kits - We made a big change to its system kits in March, as we started including the Honeywell LT-Cable in most our our pre-packaged kits. This convenient cable makes it super easy for DIY users to set up their systems and get started with Alarm Grid monitoring. All you need is a screwdriver - no wire-stripping necessary!

Total Connect 2.0 Alexa Skill - The Total Connect 2.0 Amazon Alexa Skill became available in late March. This gave users the ability to control their Honeywell Alarm Systems using spoken voice commands sent through an Alexa device. Alexa support for scene control became available later in the year as well. This was a huge win for Total Connect 2.0 users!

April Fool's Joke - For April Fool's, we announced the Alarm Grid AGCLAP1, a "Clap Sensor" that responds to the sound of a person clapping their hands. This was made possible using our advanced "Clapping Language Application Protocol", or CLAP. It promised an ear-shattering siren of 140 dB and a wireless signal range of 401 feet. The device was to be used with our very own Clap App.

ISC West 2018 - In April, Alarm Grid sent a team over to ISC West 2018 in Las Vegas to get a firsthand look at some of the newest security products. We made a post for the Honeywell booth and a post for the Qolsys and 2GIG booths. This truly was an exciting experience to get a sneak peak at some of the cutting-edge technology that the security industry is known for putting out!

Interlogix Products Available - Interlogix joined the Alarm Grid family in May, as we began selling many of their systems and sensors. This product release included the Simon XT, Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 Systems. These are great panels and sensors for any cost-conscious user who wants an effective solution for reliable alarm monitoring service.

Partition Support for Total Connect 2.0 - The release of partition support for Total Connect 2.0 was huge. Now users could control individual partitions from the Total Connect 2.0 Website or Mobile App. Many functions were included with this feature, including the ability to bypass sensors. This great feature first became available in June of 2018.

DSC Product Launch - We began selling DSC products in June, including the wireless Impassa System. This system supports 433 MHz wireless sensors, which are some of the most popular in the entire industry. This release also included the DSC PowerG Sensors, which offer an extremely impressive wireless signal range and 128-bit AES encryption protection.

Wireless Contacts Guide - We released a total guide to Honeywell Wireless Door and Window Contacts in July. This helpful resource has been fantastic for DIY users looking to set up their own Honeywell Security System. Door and window contacts are perhaps the most popular sensors used with security system. All of Honeywell's most popular wireless contacts were featured.

Alarm Grid's 6th Birthday - Alarm Grid celebrated its 6th birthday on July 20th, 2018. We closed our office early that night so that our team could enjoy a fun time at a video game bar. Everyone at Alarm Grid is extremely proud to have provided countless homes and businesses with top-quality monitoring services for the past six years. We hope to continue to serve our customers well into the future!

10,000 Subscribers on YouTube - Our YouTube Page hit 10,000 subscribers in August of 2018. We put together a big post and video recap to celebrate this accomplishment. The entire Alarm Grid family looks forward to providing users with helpful videos in the future. Kudos to our video team and our support technicians for all their hard work!

IQ Panel 2 Plus Release - The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System became available in late August. This system offered several new features, including the ability to support PowerG Sensors. Each version includes an AT&T or Verizon LTE communicator, a Z-Wave Plus controller, a PowerG daughtercard and a legacy daughtercard. The legacy daughtercard options are 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz and 433 MHz.

Lutron Release - Alarm Grid launched Lutron Products in September of 2018. These smart lighting devices are easy to use, and they provide a great solution for any user looking to get started with home automation. Our Lutron offerings are based around the Lutron Caseta Smart Bridge, which is capable of supporting up to 50 different Lutron Lighting Devices.

2GIG GC3 Partition Support - 2GIG released partition support for the 2GIG GC3 Security System in October of 2018 with its "Smart Areas" feature. This was historic, as the GC3 became one of the first-ever wireless systems to support partitioning. With this game-changing firmware update, the 2GIG GC3 gained the ability to support up to four unique system partitions.

A Spooky Alarm Grid Halloween - We celebrated Halloween in style in 2018 by going all-out with decorating our office. There were ghosts, ghouls, spiders and bats lurking in our office, as our entire team got involved in the festivities. We hope that all our customers had an exciting and safe Halloween, as we kept your home safe during this fun-filled holiday!

Refurbished Security Equipment - We began selling certified refurbished equipment in November of 2018. These offerings provide the same great performance as brand-new equipment, but at a lower cost. Our refurbished products include the Honeywell Lyric Controller, the Honeywell LKP500 Keypad, the Honeywell VISTA 21iP and the Honeywell 5800C2W Wired to Wireless Converter.

Partitioning for IQ Panel 2 - Qolsys followed through with their promise to end 2018 with a bang by releasing partitioning support for the IQ Panel 2. The firmware update allows users to control up to four individual partitions on their IQ Panel 2 System. It also included a lock screen feature to restrict access to the system. This truly was a great year for Qolsys!

Alarm Grid Christmas - Alarm Grid closed its office on December 24th and 25th in celebration of Christmas. These special dates fell nicely on a Monday and Tuesday respectively, so it gave our team a four-day weekend. We are always proud to protect homes and businesses during the busy holiday season. We hope that all our customers had a good time and received lots of presents!

Looking back, 2018 truly was a fantastic year for Alarm Grid. We hope that you all enjoyed the year as well. Keep following our blog as we head into 2019. And as always, thank you so much for being a part of the Alarm Grid family!

Hi DIYers! Last week we reviewed the new features that were added to Total Connect 2.0 in the past year. But now the new year is quickly approaching! We have learned from Honeywell that there are some great new features coming to the Total Connect 2.0 service in 2019. Here's a sneak peak!

Privacy Upon Disarm for Total Connect HD Cameras

With this feature, users can set up their cameras so that they automatically go into privacy mode when the system is disarmed. This can be useful, as the camera will stop capturing and saving video clips when the user is less likely to need them. However, the user will still be able to view the live feed for the camera through TC2. One benefit to doing this, in addition to the privacy provided, is that the user will not have to sort through as many video notifications. Once the user arms their system, the camera will exit privacy mode and capture clips like normal if it is activated.

Siri Shortcuts - Security and Scene Control

Earlier in 2018, Siri Shortcuts became available for Alarm.com. Now it appears this same great feature will soon be made available for Total Connect 2.0. Users will be able to perform security functions and operate various smart home automation scenes using voice commands that are sent through Siri on an iOS device. This is fantastic news for Apple users who want a quick and convenient method for controlling their Honeywell Alarm System, as well as any programmed smart home devices. We don't know much about the feature yet, but it's fair to assume that each command will need to be set up individually with its own trigger phrase. As long as your Z-Wave device is set up with a Total Connect 2.0 scene, you can program it to activate with a convenient voice command!

We're sure that Honeywell will surprise us with many more new features in the coming months. This is just the tip of the iceberg. But it's plenty of reason to get excited about 2019. We hope that you're looking forward to it just as much as we are. Stay tuned to Alarm Grid for all the latest security and home automation news!

Hi DIYers! We have very exciting news for Qolsys IQ Panel 2 users today. Software update 2.3.0 is now available! This biggest highlight of this update is the ability to control up to four distinct partitions with the system. Other great features are also provided to enhance the system.

With the all-new partition support, the IQ Panel 2 is now the second wireless alarm panel we carry to support the feature, after the 2GIG GC3. This feature allows a user to essentially section off their alarm system so that they can restrict access to certain areas. Each partition can be assigned a certain set of user codes in order to determine who can access each part of the security system.

After receiving the update, a screen lock feature will also be added to limit access to the panel. Please note that you must enable partitions from within Installer Settings before the feature can be used. This will also apply the screen lock. After you have done this, the main screen will reflect that partitioning has been enabled, and there will be a Partitions option within the Advanced Settings menu.

Also note that this update is available for both the original IQ Panel 2 System, as well as the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Other features that also come with the update include:

• Support for new PowerG devices for IQ Panel 2 Plus System, including the PG9936 Smoke Detector, PG9933 CO Detector, PG9307 Recessed Contact, PG9309 Vanishing Door and Window Contact, PG9309 Door and Window Contact with Auxiliary Input, PG9312 Outdoor Door and Window Contact, and PG9862 360-degree Ceiling Mount PIR Motion Sensor.
• Ability to create 6-digit user codes.
• Improvements to panel camera, including "peek-in now" and "peek-in next motion" from Alarm.com, as well as disarm photos after remote disarm through Bluetooth, key fob or ADC.
• Local automation features for panels not yet set up with ADC, including automatic locking of all locks at night, setting all thermostats to automatic mode, and controlling lights to activate Light 1 at night and turning off all lights in the morning.
• Maximum number of thermostats increased from 6 to 10.
• Maximum number of door locks increased from 6 to 20.
• User code names now sync automatically between the panel and ADC.
• New Sensor Type of "Temperature - Group 51" for the PG9905 PowerG Temperature Sensor.
• Fixed various bugs.

To perform the update, press the small grey bar at the top of the main screen. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag. Then enter in "iqpanel2.3.0". Press OK. Then choose "Upgrade Using Network". If the panel is connected via WIFI, you will be able to begin the installation process.

If you have any questions about this update, please reach out to us! You may email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours, which are 9am to 8pm EST M-F. Please note that our office will be closing at 6pm on December 31st, and we will be closed all day on January 1st.