News Posts

Hi DIYers! Today, we are happy to unveil the Honeywell Home VISTA-21iPLTE. This is the newest hardwired system from the VISTA Series by Resideo, and it is essentially replacing the existing VISTA-21iP System. The big addition is its ability to support special plug-in LTE communicators.

The Honeywell Home VISTA-21iPLTE is actually the same as a VISTA-21iP System, except that the 21iPLTE board has been upgraded to support new plug-in LTE communicators. This includes the Honeywell Home LTE-21V with Verizon LTE (available now).

This new plug-in module is just like the older Honeywell VISTA-GSM4G Communicator, which is conveniently plugged into the VISTA-21iP board. The only difference is that the LTE-21V supports LTE connectivity. This is important for anyone looking to use cellular communication with a security system.

The reason you want to use an LTE communicator with your alarm system is that it offers superior speed and reliability when compared with older 3G and CDMA networks. Also, these older networks are in the process of being shut down. By going with LTE, you are providing a long-term solution for your panel.

Just like the existing VISTA-21iP, the new VISTA-21iPLTE has a built-in IP communicator, which is basically the equivalent of a Honeywell 7847i Communicator. Even if you don't add a cell module to the VISTA-21iPLTE, you will still be able to connect it with AlarmNet for IP monitoring and access to Total Connect 2.0.

But, adding a cellular communicator is very important for dealing with internet outages. If the internet goes out and you don't have a cellular backup, then your 21iPLTE will lose connectivity with the AlarmNet360 Servers. Maintaining this connection is necessary for properly utilizing any monitoring service. This makes cellular backup crucial!

By connecting your VISTA-21iPLTE Panel with AlarmNet360, you will also be able to control your system through Total Connect 2.0. This is an interactive monitoring and automation platform that you can access from nearly anywhere using your phone. Make sure you choose a monitoring plan with TC2 service!

If you plan to use cellular communication with your VISTA-21iPLTE and Alarm Grid, then you will need a Gold or Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full). This is needed to activate the cellular radio and connect it with AlarmNet360. You can find more information about all our monitoring plans on our monitoring page.

Once you have access to Total Connect 2.0, you will be able to control your 21iPLTE System from any location with network access. You can use Total Connect 2.0 to arm and disarm, check current system status, control Z-Wave devices (controller required), view IP cameras (video monitoring required), and so much more!

As far as functionality is concerned, the VISTA-21iPLTE is just like like a VISTA-21iP. Other than the added support for the LTE-21V, they are the same panel. As a result, almost any specification that applies to the VISTA-21iP also applies to the VISTA-21iPLTE.

The VISTA-21iPLTE is capable of supporting up to 64 total zones. However, you can only use eight (8) hardwired zones out of the box. To use additional wired zones, you will need to add Honeywell 4219 Expansion Modules. To use wireless sensors, you will need a wireless receiver, such as the 6160RF Keypad.

By adding up to five (5) 4219 Expansion Modules, you can use up to 48 hardwired zones on the VISTA-21iPLTE. Keep in mind that Zones 2 through 8 support zone doubling. Zone 1 is a special zone for use with 2-wire smokes. That is why it does not support zone doubling, although it can be used as a burglary or environmental zone if 2-wire smokes are not needed. You can have up to 16 2-wire smokes on the zone.

Adding a compatible wireless receiver will let you use wireless 345 MHz sensors from the Honeywell 5800 Series. A standard wireless receiver will only support uni-directional (one-way) devices. But a wireless transceiver like the 6160RF will also let you use bi-directional devices. Up to 56 wireless zones can be used. The number of available wireless zones depends on the number of wired expansion zones being used.

It is important to keep in mind that the total number of zones (wired and wireless) can never exceed 64. Additionally, zones 49 through 64 on a VISTA-21iPLTE are designated as key fob zones. But you can use these zones with any wireless sensor, as long as you have a wireless receiver added.

There are also some other accessories you can add to a VISTA-21iPLTE System. First and foremost, you will want a keypad for controlling the system. As stated earlier, the Honeywell 6160RF is a great option. If you don't plan to use wireless sensors, then the standard Honeywell 6160 will work just as well.

You might also consider getting a touchscreen keypad for the system. These can be easier to use than push-button keypads. But just remember that only push-button keypads can backdoor into programming. The new Honeywell 6290W is a great option. Or you could go with the Tuxedo Touch which will also add Z-Wave functionality.

There are limits to the number of keypads you can use with the system. Up to eight (8) push-button keypads can be added. Touchscreen keypads count as AUI devices, and the VISTA-21iPLTE will only support a max of four (4) of these. Keep in mind that the Total Connect 2.0 service also counts as an AUI device!

Speaking of Z-Wave, a Z-Wave controller is needed if you want to use Z-Wave devices with the system. Adding a Tuxedo Touch is a great way to add Z-Wave capabilities. If you already have a keypad, then the standalone Honeywell VAM was an option, but it has recently been discontinued. Remember, you can control all Z-Wave devices through TC2.

Lastly, the system comes with its own transformer for supplying power. You will still need to supply a backup battery like the UltraTech IM-1250F1. Power cabling is not included with the VISTA-21iPLTE system, so you must add your own. We recommend using 18-gauge wiring, or even better, a Honeywell LT-Cable.

We would also like to mention that the VISTA-21iPLTE supports two (2) partitions, along with a third common partition. It also supports other miscellaneous features like Quick Arming, Scheduling, up to 48 unique user codes, 100-event event log, two (2) low-current trigger outputs, chime functionality, and more.

The VISTA-21iPLTE System and the LTE-21V LTE Communicator are both available for purchase now from the Alarm Grid website. This system is great for anyone looking for a simple, yet effective hardwired panel. It will certainly serve as a long-lasting addition to your home or business and help keep you safe.

If you have any questions about the system, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will check your email at our earliest convenience and reply as soon as possible. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728. Remember that our support hours are 9 am to 8 pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Last week, we sent a small team to Silicon Valley, California to check out the 2019 Qolsys Summit. Needless to say, we were absolutely blown away with what Qolsys will soon be offering. Today, we would like to focus on some of their new industry-changing products in the pipeline.

The biggest highlight of the Qolsys Summit was the opportunity to check out the newest upcoming panel from the company, the Qolsys IQ Hub. The IQ Hub represents the vision of Qolsys to bring home security closer and more accessible to the average consumer than ever before. This is truly the optimal system for any budget-conscious consumer who wants to bring state-of-the-art security and technology into their home. It is slated for a Q1 2020 release.

We do not have all the details on the Qolsys IQ Hub quite yet. But there is still a lot that we can talk about. The most obvious addition to the Qolsys IQ Hub is its prominent speaker on the front. Qolsys is expected to introduce some mind-blowing integrations for the system that will turn your alarm control panel into a compact entertainment center.

Remember that Alarm.com already offers an excellent Sonos integration. We are sure that the IQ Hub will take full advantage of this feature and truly put it to great use. Our team did get a chance to test the IQ Hub sound quality, and we can confirm it sounds just as good as any high-end portable speaker. This is highly impressive, and we expect many users to be thrilled that their alarm system can now essentially double as a party-starter.

The next aspect you will likely notice about the IQ Hub is its standout display screen. This is a 7" touchscreen display that appears to have even higher resolution than any existing security system on the market. We do not have the exact specifications on the screen just yet, but it certainly passes the eyeball test. And as you can see from the photo above, the slideshow feature returns. Get ready to show-off some of your best photos on the Qolsys IQ Hub!

As we mentioned earlier, Qolsys seems to be envisioning the IQ Hub as a way to make the home security market more accessible to the average consumer. The new system is not expected to replace the existing Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, but it is anticipated to have a lower price point. We also expect many existing features to return to the IQ Hub, including built-in WIFI, Bluetooth connectivity, cellular LTE, and Z-Wave Plus functionality.

One thing that will not be returning to the IQ Hub is support for legacy sensors (e.g. 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, and 433 MHz devices). The new system will be entirely PowerG, and you will need to use those sensors with the system. This is fine, as PowerG Sensors offer an impressive wireless range of up 2,000 feet when used with the IQ Hub in open air. They also utilize military grade 128-bit AES encryption in all their communication to ensure maximum wireless security.

Another interesting note about the panel is that it is not designed to be opened up. This is a significant change from most existing security systems, where you will occasionally need to open up the panel to make hardware changes. The battery on the IQ Hub is sled-replaceable, and it can easily be swapped out by the end user with little effort. All of the hardware is built right in, so you will never have to make any changes in that regard. Talk about DIY friendly!

Qolsys made other various enhancements to the IQ Hub System. They touted an improved integrated camera, and it can even double as a motion sensor by detecting changes in pixelation. We also expect this feature to be used in conjunction with Alarm.com so that you can take a peak-in at your home while you're on the go. You will also notice the LED light on the front of the panel. This light changes colors to let you know the current system status. How cool!

The system also features a built-in microphone that you can use to get alerts regarding loud sounds. You can even adjust the minimum sound level required to trigger alerts. This is perfect for parents who want to know if their baby is fussing or for owners of rental properties who may want to be alerted if their guests are throwing a loud party. It's just another way that Qolsys is working hard to keep you connected with your home.

We do expect that there will be some hardware limitations of the IQ Hub when compared with the IQ Panel 2 Plus, especially when you consider the anticipated lower price point. Qolsys most likely reduced costs by dropping legacy sensor support. It's also possible that the IQ Hub will support fewer zones than the IQ Panel 2 Plus (128 zones). But we cannot confirm the exact number of zone on the IQ Hub at this time. The IQ Hub is also slightly larger than the existing IQ2+ due to the added speaker.

As stated earlier, the Qolsys IQ Hub is scheduled for a Q1 2020 release. This groundbreaking new system is sure to make some big waves in the security industry, and we are confident that it will help many new users get their start with home security. We can't wait for its release, and we hope you're excited too!

Qolsys also unveiled another interesting product at the event, the Qolsys IQ Router. At first glance, you might be wondering what's the big deal. What's so exciting about an IP router? Well Qolsys packed in some game-changing features that are sure to make the IQ Router the perfect addition to your IQ Hub or IQ Panel 2 Plus System. It is sure to make your life more convenient in many ways. And we can also confirm, it is dual-band with support for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz!

At the basic level, the IQ Router is exactly what it sounds like, an internet router. It replaces the existing router for your home's IP network. But what you get with the router is pretty ingenious. Any Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System or Qolsys IQ Hub connected with the IQ Router can be accessed remotely by your alarm monitoring company for programming purposes. This is similar to what the DSC Iotega offers. But with the Qolsys Systems, it is optional rather than mandatory.

Of course, if you don't want your monitoring company accessing your panel, then you can disable the feature. But it's pretty nice if you want assistance with programming new devices. One thing you will certainly love is its ability to auto-discover your IQ Hub System and automatically enroll it with your WIFI network. You can even configure your IP settings right from the IQ Hub. This truly makes the IQ Hub the central controller for your entire network!

Another innovation from the IQ Router is the ability to auto-enroll guest WIFI devices. In other words you can get any visitors on your WIFI network, without making them enter a long, tedious password. The way this works is that your guest will request to join the network from their IP device. You will then approve the request from either your IQ Hub or an app on your phone. And just like that, your guest will be connected with your WIFI network. Super convenient!

As you will notice, the Qolsys IQ Router only has one (1) LAN port for connecting a hardwired ethernet device. This isn't a big deal, as most users might not even need one. If you need additional ports, then you can easily connect a network switch to the router and use it however you would like.

But one very exciting feature of the IQ Router is its ability to support up to eight (8) WIFI extenders or access points. This makes it truly suitable for even large commercial locations! The router facilitates a total mesh network to help ensure that all of your IP devices stay connected across even an incredibly expansive area. Whether your needs are big or small, you are sure to get great use out of the new IQ Router! Qolsys states that it should be out by the end of this year.

We would like to end this post with some smaller product announcements we heard at the Qolsys Summit. A PowerG 360-Degree Ceiling-Mount PIR Motion Sensor called the PG9862 was unveiled. This sensor is perfect for use in closets or in commercial locations where corner-mounting is not feasible. The PG9862 is available from Alarm Grid now, and you can get it right here.

Lastly, we heard rumors about a much-anticipated PowerG Wired to Wireless Converter. This is huge news, as it will allow you to takeover an existing hardwired system and use a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus or Qolsys IQ Hub in its place. And of course, all your hardwired sensors will enjoy the amazing range and security of the PowerG wireless protocol. We do not have any other details on the PowerG Converter at this time, but we will definitely keep our eyes peeled.

We hope that you are eagerly awaiting all of these new products just like we are! This was truly an awesome event that Qolsys put on, and we are thankful that we got to be a part of it. We are hopeful that Qolsys hosts a similar gathering next year in 2020! For now, check out these new and upcoming products, and email us at support@alarmgrid.com if you have any questions or thoughts. Remember that our support hours are from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. As usual, we look forward to hearing from you!

One of our favorite alarm system manufacturers Qolsys has announced that they will begin manufacturing the IQ Panel 2 Plus in the United States. Thanks to a newly formed partnership with Foxconn Industrial Internet (FII), the security system will now be assembled in Mt. Pleasant, Wisconsin.

According to Qolsys, the panel will be assembled at the FII facility in the Wisconn Valley Science and Technology Park in Mt. Pleasant, WI. Qolsys has stated that the move will help the company maintain high-quality and consistent manufacturing. It will also improve their delivery speeds and help them expand their overall global presence. The company will still continue to operate its existing facility in Juarez, Mexico. This is just another location for Qolsys to produce industry-leading products.

We believe that this is an excellent move for Qolsys, as the company will benefit greatly from the manufacturing, production, and supply chain expertise of FII. It is also great news to hear of a security system manufacturer bringing more jobs to the USA. As you may know, Qolsys is based out of San Jose, CA, and they have regularly provided some great innovations for the security industry. Their IQ Panel 2 Plus System has received widespread praise for features like PowerG support, automatic Bluetooth disarming, live-streaming for ADC Cameras, partitioning and more.

Alarm Grid congratulates Qolsys on the recent move, and we look forward to their continued success. If you have any questions about the IQ Panel 2 Plus or any Qolsys product, you can reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our technical support hours are from 9am to 8pm EST. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the perfect security system for your needs.

Hi DIYers! We are happy to announce that we have some new wellness sensors available from Alarm.com. These are great for use with elderly or mobility challenged loved ones. There is an Alarm.com Bed Sensor and an Alarm.com Chair Sensor available on our website. Both operate at 319.5 MHz.

Having peace of mind in knowing that your elderly or mobility challenged loved one is alright can be very important. That is why Alarm.com created these new wellness sensors. They both work in a similar manner. The bed sensor will let you know when your loved one gets in and out of bed. The chair sensor will let you know when they sit down and get up from their usual chair. Both will activate upon sensing 50+ pounds of weight.

These wellness sensors are known as "occupancy sensors". We don't talk about these sensors fairly often, but they are relatively easy to understand. When your loved one is sitting down or in bed, the sensor will be in an "occupied" state. And when the bed or chair is empty, the sensor will enter a "vacant" state. Your system will announce whenever there is a change in status for the sensor.

But the real beauty in these sensors comes in their ability to be used with the Alarm.com platform. You can get text and/or email alerts regarding any sensor activity. It is also possible to configure notifications so that you only get alerts during certain times of day. This way you can set a schedule based around your loved one's usual activity.

The bed sensor is quite useful when paired with the "Sensor Left Open" notification. You might set up a notification to be sent if your loved one is out of bed for more than an hour. And you can also set a time frame so that notifications are only sent during periods when they are almost certainly in bed, say between midnight and 6am. That way, if your loved one gets out of bed in the middle of the night and suffers a fall and is unable to make it back, you will get an alert.

Even better is the new Alarm.com Wellness Platform that allows for even more detailed notifications. You might set up alerts to be sent if your loved one never gets out of bed in the morning, or if they have remained seated for an unusually long period of time. We hope to show-off the feature in greater detail sometime soon. For now, just be aware that it is available upon request for Alarm.com users. Remember, Alarm Grid customers need a Gold Plan or higher to use ADC.

At this time, we are only offering 319.5 MHz versions of the bed and chair sensors. You will need a compatible 319.5 MHz system to use them. Examples include the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus w/ 319.5 MHz Daughtercard and the Interlogix Simon Alarm Panels. For the IQ2, we recommend using Sensor Group 25 - Local Safety Sensor and an Occupancy Sensor Type. For an Interlogix Panel, you should use either Sensor Group 40 (chime) or 27 (no chime).

We expect other wireless frequencies to be available sometime in the near future. We will let you know once we have them available. If you have any questions about these new sensors or the new Alarm.com Wellness Platform, 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 reply back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Just last week, we announced some of the new system kits that we are now offering on our site. Well today, we have even more kits to announce. We have new system kits featuring the DSC PowerSeries NEO, the 2GIG GC3e, and the 345 MHz and 433 MHz Versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus.

DSC PowerSeries NEO Kits

The DSC PowerSeries NEO is a hardwired alarm system with some powerful features. It is generally best used in commercial settings, as it isn't going to be as DIY-friendly as a wireless alarm system. But if you need a hardwired system, then a DSC PowerSeries NEO might be the way to go. We are offering kits around the 16-zone, 32-zone, 64-zone, and 128-zone DSC PowerSeries NEO Systems. You can choose between AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE for all of the kits.

DSC HS2016NK 3-1 AT&T LTE Kit

• 16-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

DSC HS2016NK 3-1 Verizon LTE Kit

• 16-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 16-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 16-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 32-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 32-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 32-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 32-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 64-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 64-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 64-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 64-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 128-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 128-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Three (3) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 128-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LEAT N AT&T LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

• 128-Zone DSC PowerSeries NEO
• DSC HS2LCDRF9 N NEO Keypad
• DSC TL880LTVZ N Verizon LTE & IP Communicator
• Ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits

Last week, we announced several "encrypted" Qolsys Kits that were based around the IQ Panel 2 Plus and PowerG Sensors. Today, we have some non-encrypted kits for the 345 MHz and 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus models. Unlike the kits introduced last week, these kits use uni-directional "non-encrypted" sensors. We actually already had similar kits available for the 319.5 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus, but now the 345 MHz and 433 MHz versions are joining the fray!

An added bonus about these kits - we actually do include an encrypted PowerG Motion Sensor. It's only the door/window contacts that aren't encrypted. These kits are good if you don't necessarily care about encryption, and you want to save money versus buying the fully encrypted kits.

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 System Kit

• 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ AT&T LTE
• Three (3) VERSA-2GIG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

• 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ Verizon LTE
• Three (3) VERSA-2GIG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

• 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ AT&T LTE
• Ten (10) VERSA-2GIG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

• 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ Verizon LTE
• Ten (10) VERSA-2GIG Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

• 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ AT&T LTE
• Three (3) VERSA-DSC Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 System Kit

• 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ Verizon LTE
• Three (3) VERSA-DSC Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

• 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ AT&T LTE
• Ten (10) VERSA-DSC Door/Window Contacts
ꞏOne (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 System Kit

• 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus System w/ Verizon LTE
• Ten (10) VERSA-DSC Door/Window Contacts
• One (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG Motion Sensor

2GIG GC3e AT&T LTE Kits

Last up, we have some new 2GIG GC3e Kits. As we announced yesterday, the 2GIG GC3e AT&T LTE Communicator is finally here, and that means mores GC3e Kits! These are just like the Verizon Kits we announced last week, only with a different communicator.

• 2GIG GC3e System
• 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator
• Three (3) 2GIG DW10e Door/Window Sensors
• One (1) 2GIG PIR1e Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

2GIG GC3e AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit

• 2GIG GC3e System
• 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator
• Three (3) 2GIG DW10e Door/Window Sensors
• One (1) 2GIG PIR1e Motion Sensor
• Honeywell LT-Cable

Reach Out To Us!

If you have any questions about these kits, or if you need help deciding on the best one, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is at support@alarmgrid.com. Or if you prefer to call, you can reach us at (888) 818-7728 during our usual business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are excited to inform you that the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator is here! This cellular communicator works with both the original 2GIG GC3 and the new 2GIG GC3e. By installing and activating this communicator, you can use your 2GIG Security System with Alarm.com.

In order to use this communicator, your 2GIG GC3 or 2GIG GC3e System must be running Firmware Version 3.2.3 or higher. This update can be pushed down to your panel from Alarm.com by your monitoring company for a small fee. Alarm Grid customers can contact us to do this. You can also apply the update locally at the panel using a USB drive. Updating locally is completely free. More information on how to apply the update locally can be found here.

Once you have installed and activated the communicator, you will be able to control your system using Alarm.com. This includes both the Alarm.com website and the Alarm.com Mobile App for Android and iOS devices. By accessing Alarm.com, you can arm/disarm, check current system status, control Z-Wave devices, and more. Just remember that you will need a compatible monitoring plan, such as a Gold or Platinum Plan from Alarm Grid.

The important thing about this communicator is that it works across the AT&T LTE Network. Cellular service providers like AT&T intend to keep their LTE networks running well into the very distant future. They have invested huge amounts of money into these networks, and they intend to use them for the long-term. An LTE communicator like the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator is an excellent investment, as it will keep your system monitored for many years to come. We also sell LTE communicators for other security systems here.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 or any other cellular communicator, please reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You should also email us if you are an Alarm Grid customer looking to have a firmware update pushed down to your panel. Remember that over-the-air (OTA) updates for these panels will incur a small fee. We pass this fee along to our customers with no mark-up. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Today, we wanted to let you know about some of the new security system kits that are available from the Alarm Grid website. We have new kits that feature the Resideo Lyric, the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus (319.5 MHz, 345 MHz, and 433 MHz), the 2GIG GC3e and the 2GIG GC2e Systems.

Our system kits are perfect for anyone just getting started with alarm monitoring service. Each one includes a brand-new alarm panel, some door and window sensors, a motion sensor, an LTE cellular communicator, and a power cable. You can easily expand around any of these systems later on if needed. Just remember that you will need a monitoring plan to use one of these systems with Alarm Grid. A Gold Plan or higher is needed for cellular communication.

Now that you know a little bit about our kits, let's take a look at each new one individually:

Resideo Lyric w/ Verizon LTE Communicator Kits

• Lyric System
• LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 Versa-2GIG Contacts
• SiXPIR Motion
• LT-Cable

• Lyric System
• LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
• 10 Versa-2GIG Contacts
• SiXPIR Motion
• LT-Cable

Lyric Verizon-LTE 3-1 Encrypted Kit

• Lyric System
• LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 SiXMINICT Contacts
• SiXPIR Motion
• LT-Cable

Lyric Verizon-LTE 10-1 Encrypted Kit

• Lyric System
• LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator
• 10 SiXMINICT Contacts
  
• SiXPIR Motion
• LT-Cable

Qolsys IQ 319.5 MHz PowerG Kits

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 319.5 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 319.5 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

Qolsys IQ 345 MHz PowerG Kits

IQ Panel 2 345 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 345 MHz AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 345 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 345 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 345 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

Qolsys IQ 433 MHz PowerG Kits

IQ Panel 2 433 MHz AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 433 MHz AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433MHz w/ AT&T LTE
• 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 433 MHz Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 3 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

IQ Panel 2 433 MHz Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit

• IQ Panel 2 Plus 433 MHz w/ Verizon LTE
• 10 PG9303 PowerG Contacts
• PG 9914 PowerG Motion

2GIG GC3e Kits

2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit

• 2GIG GC3e System
• 2GIG LTEV-1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 10-1 Kit

• 2GIG GC3e System
• 2GIG LTEV-1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator
• 10 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

2GIG GC2e Kits

2GIG GC3e Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit

• 2GIG GC2e System
• 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC2 Verizon LTE Communicator
• 3 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

2GIG GC2e Verizon-LTE 10-1 Kit

• 2GIG GC2e System
• 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC2 Verizon LTE
• Communicator
• 10 2GIG DW10e Door and Window Sensors
• 2GIG PIR1e Motion
• LT Cable

All of these great kits are available from Alarm Grid right now. If you have any questions or need help choosing a system, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us during our regular business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! We are excited to learn that Firmware Version 2.4.0 is now available for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus. The update can easily be applied at the panel or pushed from Alarm.com. Many new features and automation capabilities come included with the firmware update.

The following updates to the system are applied with Firmware Version 2.4.0:

Improved User Interface (UI)
- Ability to Hide Security, Lock, and Thermostat Pages
- Dynamic Screen Lock Page - Enable Independently from Partitions
- All-New Automation & Wellness Pages

Improved Partitions 2.0
- Global Arming
- Bluetooth Disarming by Partition

LiftMaster MyQ Garage Control
- New Panel UI for LiftMaster Garage Door Devices Paired w/ Alarm.com

ADC Scene Control
- Control Alarm.com Scenes Directly from Panel

IQ Remote Enhancements
- Alarm.com Videos thru Built-In Camera
- Live-Stream ADC Cameras and Video Doorbell thru IQ Remote (No Audio)
- Connectivity Improvements

Home Automation
- Support for Z-Wave Version 6.81.03 - Including S2 Security & SmartStart
- Note: Only for Panels Manufactured w/ 2.4.0 & Above; Not for Panels Receiving Update OTA
- Support for LQI 2 (link quality indicators)
- Emergency Heat Mode for Z-Wave Thermostats now supported

PowerG
- PowerG Modem Firmware Update 80.25
- Fixes Compatibility with the DSC PG9312 Outdoor Contact

Panel Motion
- Sensitivity Settings - High, Medium, Low
- Mask-Off Up to Four (4) Distinct Areas

Other
- QR Code Scanning for S-Line Sensor Enrollment (319.5 MHz Panel Only)
- Language Improvements

While we will certainly be showing off these features in greater detail sometime in the near future, for now we just want to show you how to download the new firmware. You can have the update pushed down automatically from the Alarm.com servers free of charge. Alarm Grid customers can do this by emailing us at support@alarmgrid.com. You will need to have the panel monitored with Alarm Grid and connected to WIFI for us to do this.

But the easiest way to update is to apply the update yourself at the panel. Again, make sure your system is monitored and connected to WIFI before you begin. It will also need to be plugged-in and not have a low-battery condition. Start from the main screen of the system. Click on the small grey bar at the top. Choose Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer Code (default 1111) > Upgrade Software > Patch Tag > type in iqpanel2.4.0 > OK > Upgrade Using Network. If done correctly, the new firmware update should be downloaded. Once it has been completely downloaded, press "OK" to begin the update process. The panel will reboot as part of the update. The entire process will take around five (5) minutes and is complete after the reboot.

If you have any questions about this update, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. This looks to be a very exciting update for the IQ Panel 2 plus, and we can't wait for you to check it out. We will be showing off some of these features in greater detail in the coming days. Keep checking our blog for more information!

Alarm Grid is now fully re-opened after closing yesterday due to Hurricane Dorian. The team at the main Alarm Grid Florida headquarters is now back to work answering phones and emails and activating systems. Our shipping department has also resumed processing and shipping out orders.

We know that Hurricane Dorian was a stressful experience for many people out there, us included. Many of our team members spent the past few days boarding up their homes and making preparations for family members. We are very happy that this hurricane has finally passed and that any impact in Florida has been minimal. Our thoughts go out to the people in the Bahamas whose lives have been drastically affected due to the storm.

Our Florida team would like to thank our remote team members who worked very hard to answer calls and emails in our place while we were dealing with the storm. Indeed, a lot of people contacted Alarm Grid during our absence. We apologize for any longer-than-usual wait times you may have experienced as a customer during this time. We can now assure you that it will be back to business as usual.

We would also like to thank Criticom Monitoring Services for their work during the hurricane. Our monitoring partner did a fantastic job, and all incoming signals and alarms were dealt with according to usual procedure. Remember, CMS operates three (3) separate monitoring centers across the country. Even when one monitoring center goes down, the others remain active to pick up the slack. This is very important during emergency situations like Hurricanes.

Remember, the best way to reach us at Alarm Grid for assistance is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Our team will check the email at their 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. We look forward to hearing from you. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this most recent event. The Alarm Grid team is happy to be back to work!

The Alarm Grid main headquarters in South Florida is closed due to Hurricane Dorian. At this time, only our remote offices are operational. The technicians at these remote offices will still be working to check your calls and emails. Please understand that we are short-staffed at this time.

Remember that the best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. Wait times may be slightly longer than usual due to our limited number of staff. Additionally, there may be shipping delays on certain products.

Keep in mind that our main headquarters closing does not affect your monitoring service. Our monitoring partner, Criticom Monitoring Services, operates three (3) monitoring stations. Even if one goes offline, the other two will still be there to pick up the slack. This redundancy is a major reason why we selected Criticom as our monitoring partner.

To everyone affected by Hurricane Dorian, we hope that you are safe and alright during these difficult times. We look forward to reopening our main headquarters as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding during this time.

Update: Our plan is to re-open fully Wednesday, September 4th. We will provide an update as soon as news is available.