Product Announcements Posts

We have a short but exciting announcement today, as new Qolsys IQ Smart Water Valve Kits are now available! There are two (2) kits available, including the Qolsys IQWV908-KIT-PG that uses PowerG communication and the Qolsys IQWV908-KIT-SL that uses 319.5 MHz S-Line communication.

Both of these new kits include two (2) components. The centerpiece is a smart water valve that uses Z-Wave Plus V2 700-Series communication technology. This piece of hardware has an adaptive torque output and can be self-installed on most quarter-turn (1/4 turn) ball valve pipes ranging from one-half inch (1/2") to one and a quarter inch (1-1/4"). Wireless communication is kept super secure using the optional Z-Wave S2 Security Protocol, which is supported by most 500-Series and 700-Series Z-Wave controllers.

Some of the best aspects of the Z-Wave 700-Series Qolsys IQ Smart Water Valve include its ability to be used indoors or outdoors (keep out of direct sunlight), it has an adaptive torque rating of up to eight (8) Nm, and its ingress protection rating of IP66, making it both waterproof and dustproof. The water valve is nice and compact at just 14.8mm x 9.6mm x 13.3mm in size, and it weighs a mere 603g. It can be used reliably in temperatures ranging from 14°F to 121°F. Best of all, it can be self-installed, without the need to hire a plumber.

The other component of the kit is a wireless flood sensor that is ideally used in conjunction with the smart water valve. Depending on the kit you choose, you will get either the DSC 915 MHz PowerG PG9985 Flood Sensor or the Qolsys 319.5 MHz S-Line QS5536-840 Flood Sensor. The PowerG option is good if you have any version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus or a DSC PowerSeries NEO Panel with an added PowerG Transceiver. Meanwhile, the S-Line variant is good for the original non-Plus Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or even something like a wireless Interlogix Alarm Panel.

The biggest advantage to using the Z-Wave smart water valve and the wireless flood sensor together is that you can create an automated scene to turn the water off in an emergency situation. The way that this works is that when the flood sensor detects liquid, it will send a signal to the centralized alarm control panel. This faulted zone can then be programmed to trigger an automated smart scene that tells the Z-Wave valve to shut off the water supply. This can stop the flooding and potentially save you thousands of dollars in serious damage. If you've ever experienced the devastation of a major flood, then you will realize this importance.

Do you have any thoughts on this new smart water valve and flood sensor combination package from Qolsys? Share your viewpoint in a comment down below. We would love to hear what you have to say. It's great to see Qolsys taking such initiative in the field of flood damage prevention. Who knows, maybe Resideo and Honeywell Home or 2GIG and Nortek will release their own smart water valve in the near future (pure speculation). From what we can tell Qolsys really put out a winner here, and we're really excited to see it in action. Anyway, that's all the news for now. Keep posted to the Alarm Grid Blog for more updates in the security and smart home automation world coming real soon!

Alarm Grid is offering new Alarm.com System Enhancement Modules (SEMs) for Honeywell VISTA P-Series Alarm Panels. The ADC-SEM300-VT-AT (AT&T LTE & IP) and ADC-SEM300-VT-VZ (Verizon LTE & IP) are both available now. They provide reliable alarm monitoring and Z-Wave Plus capabilities.

If you aren't familiar with Alarm.com System Enhancement Modules (SEMs), they are basically cellular communicators that allow hardwired alarm panels to connect with the Alarm.com servers. The reason why SEMs for Honeywell VISTA Systems are so interesting is because normally these Honeywell-manufactured Alarm Panels are used in conjunction with the Resideo AlarmNet Servers and the Total Connect 2.0 Security Notification and Automation Platform. With an SEM, you can take control of your Honeywell VISTA Alarm Panel and instead have it communicate with the Alarm.com servers and the Alarm.com platform. Alarm Grid customers can choose from a variety of alarm monitoring plans to use with SEMs, including our Gold and Platinum Level Plans (Self & Full) and our Cellular-Only Plan. You can learn more about all our monitoring plans in this comprehensive blog post.

When you break-down what Alarm.com offers versus Total Connect 2.0, both platforms are remarkably similar. However, there are some cases where a user may prefer to go with Alarm.com over Total Connect 2.0. The biggest reason why we can think of is that the user wants to take advantage of the robust selection of Alarm.com Security Cameras. If you compare the selection of Alarm.com Cameras versus the Total Connect 2.0 Camera Selection, then it's clear that Alarm.com is (at least for now) the hands-down winner. Even if you aren't using security cameras in your setup, maybe you want a better integration with the Alarm.com Smart Water Valve, or maybe there's an Alarm.com Demand Response Program in your area that you want to take advantage of. In any case, if you have a VISTA P-Series Panel (e.g. VISTA-10P, VISTA-15P, VISTA-20P, VISTA-21iP, VISTA-21iPLTE), then an Alarm.com SEM will give you the option of using their services instead of AlarmNet and TC2.

When you compare the new "300-Series" SEMs with the previous VISTA SEMs, the ADC-SEM210-VT-AT and the ADC-SEM210-VT-VZ, the new ones have a couple of advantages. For one, the new 300-Series SEMs utilize much lower power consumption at just 230mA. The new modules also have the ability to be used without an external power supply, which was required with the older modules. In the setup without an external power supply, all of the power is supplied from the panel. However, you can still use an external power supply with the new SEMs if you do not have 230mA available from your panel. Also, the new 300-Series SEMs have new externally-facing LED status lights that are easier to read when needed.

Just like the prior editions, the new ADC-SEM300-VT-AT and ADC-SEM300-VT-VZ offer ultra-reliable connectivity across both an LTE cellular network and internet service using a wired ethernet connection. In addition, the new SEMs also return with Z-Wave Plus functionality, thereby allowing you to build a robust and complete smart home network around your security system. If you have been wanting to setup smart devices around your Honeywell VISTA Alarm System for use around the Alarm.com Security and Automation Platform, then these new SEM devices are perfect for the job at-hand. They are available right now and ready for use with Alarm Grid!

Do you have any thoughts about the new Alarm.com 300-Series SEMs, the ADC-SEM300-VT-AT and ADC-SEM300-VT-VZ? Would you consider switching over your Honeywell VISTA System to the Alarm.com Platform from Total Connect 2.0? Or maybe you're already happy with using your VISTA System with its current LTE cellular communicator? Let us know your thoughts in a comment down below. We would love to hear what you have to say. We always make sure to cover new product releases and the latest security system news, so make sure to stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Home Security Blog for more great content coming soon!

Update 12/30/21: The 2GIG GC3e has been discontinued and is no longer available. The 2GIG Edge w/ AT&T LTE or the 2GIG Edge w/ Verizon LTE have replaced it.

In an effort to clear out existing stock, the 2GIG GC3e Alarm Panel is now available at the bargain price of $189.99. This is an excellent chance to get a modern and reliable alarm panel for your home or business at a super low price. Act quickly, because supplies will run out very soon!

We announced earlier this month that the 2GIG GC3e was discontinued. However, due to existing stock, the GC3e Panel is effectively back from the dead for one final run. Once the limited stock runs out, the 2GIG GC3e will be discontinued forever. Room needs to be made for newer panels, so we're offering the 2GIG GC3e for the low price of $189.99. This is a rare opportunity to get a great alarm panel to build around. It can certainly fulfill all of your security and smart home automation needs once you get it set up and running!

The GC3e is fantastic for alarm monitoring. Just add either a 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator or a 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 Verizon LTE Communicator, and you will be able to connect the GC3e with the Alarm.com Servers for monitoring service. Since the 2GIG GC3e already has an internal WIFI card, adding the cellular communicator will make it into a dual-path system that will stay monitored even if one path goes down or becomes unavailable. Alarm.com requires cellular connectivity, so you will need a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication, such as an Alarm Grid Gold Plan (Self or Full).

Although the 2GIG GC3e doesn't support more advanced features like Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming, the GC3e does support the robust lineup of 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. You can also supplement those encrypted sensors with non-encrypted sensors from the 2GIG 345 MHz Series and the Honeywell 5800 Series for good measure. The panel also has an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller so that you can start building a smart home network to make your life more convenient.

Overall, the 2GIG GC3e is an outstanding choice if you want more of a simple, no-frills panel that is still unmistakably modern and offers all the remote access and function through Alarm.com. If you do want something more advanced, than the 2GIG GC3e's effective replacement, the 2GIG Edge is available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE variants. Both the GC3e and the Edge connect with the same Alarm.com platform, and both offer the same sensor compatibility. The main benefit to going with the Edge is that you get access to some more advanced features, such as the aforementioned Bluetooth Disarming and Facial Recognition Disarming. If you don't mind missing out on those features, then the 2GIG GC3e is basically just as good. Both systems feature very similar menus and user interfaces (UIs), so if you know one, then you pretty much already know the other!

In addition, we are also offering special pricing on 2GIG GC3e System Kits. Each kit includes a cellular communicator for getting the system monitored a Honeywell LT-Cable for providing power, one (1) 2GIG PIR1e-345 Motion Sensor, and either three (3) or ten (10) VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contact Sensors. Just decide whether you want AT&T LTE or Verizon LTE, and also whether you want three (3) door and window sensors or ten (10) door and window sensors. Then find the corresponding kit below. Hurry, before time runs out!

• 2GIG GC3e 3-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 10-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 3-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE
• 2GIG GC3e 10-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE

Remember, once supplies of the 2GIG GC3e run out, then the system is gone forever. If you have any questions about the GC3e, or any of the other security systems on our website, or if you want to speak with a security system expert who can help you build the perfect setup for your home or business, then please do not hesitate to send an email to our dedicated team at support@alarmgrid.com. We're here to check your emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Whether you go with the 2GIG GC3e, its replacement, the 2GIG Edge, or a different system entirely, we will be there to help you every step of the way. Thank you for reading the Alarm Grid Blog, and we will be back with more news and promotions real soon!

After much anticipation and speculation, the 2GIG Edge Alarm System is finally here! We have the Edge Panel available in two (2) cellular communicator options (AT&T or Verizon), plus complete 2GIG Edge System Kits, and various alarm system accessories exclusively for use with the Edge.

If you have been keeping up with the Alarm Grid blog, then you probably already know that the Edge is perhaps the single most highly anticipated thing we have ever seen out of Nortek Control and 2GIG. The state-of-the-art wireless all-in-one (AiO) panel retains virtually all of the same great features and capabilities of the 2GIG GC3e System that came before it, including a 7-inch LCD touchscreen for easy and seamless navigation, 100 wireless zones, support for 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors, and legacy 345 MHz sensors (both Honeywell 5800 and 2GIG 345 MHz), the ability to build and customize up to four (4) individually controlled and operated Smart Area Partitions, One-Touch Arming, Chime & Voice functionality, Alarm.com connectivity, a digital slideshow picture frame, and much more.

But what makes the 2GIG Edge different and unique is its new features. First of all, the Edge has a completely refreshed design for a 2GIG Panel, as it is the first system from 2GIG to break away from the traditional all-white panel. Instead, the Edge comes in a black design that looks impressively modern and fits in nicely with almost any setting. We're also pleased to say that 2GIG was able to fit more hardware into the Edge Panel, putting it in on par with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2+ panels. This includes a built-in glass break detector, a front panel camera that offers facial recognition, and an 85 dB sounder for alarm events.

One noteworthy difference with regard to 2GIG Edge facial recognition is that it can be used for automatically arming and disarming the system upon detecting the user's face, which is not possible on the IQ Panel 2 Plus. Other familiar IQ2+ features also offered with the Edge include optional automatic Bluetooth disarming for your phone, panel live-streaming for compatible Alarm.com Cameras, and full connectivity with the Alarm.com security and automation platform.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of the 2GIG Edge is the fact that it has a built-in LTE cellular communicator. This is used for connecting the system with Alarm.com, since ADC requires that all systems using their services have an active cellular communication path. This is in addition to the internal WIFI card for the 2GIG Edge that is also used for communicating with Alarm.com. Using cellular and internet communication together on a security system is often referred to as dual-path connectivity, and it is great because it helps to ensure that the system stays monitored during any type of communication outage. But while internet connectivity is technically optional, cellular communication is required. This means that you will need a monitoring plan that includes cellular communication to get the 2GIG Edge monitored. Some monitoring plans you may consider include the Gold and Platinum Level Plans from Alarm Grid (Self or Full). You can learn all about Alarm Grid monitoring plans in this comprehensive blog post.

As we mentioned before, the cellular communicator for the 2GIG Edge is built into the panel. While this might seem like a positive attribute, it is a bit of a double-EDGEd sword when you consider the issue more closely. On one hand, this means that there is no need to purchase a separate communicator for the 2GIG Edge. Everything needed for the system to connect with Alarm.com is built into the panel. But this also means that if something ever goes wrong with the communicator, then it will be necessary to replace the entire panel, rather than just simply swapping out the communicator. The same is true for the system's WIFI card. If it is damaged, then a completely new system is needed. There is also no word on how a built-in LTE cellular communicator will affect the system in the very distant future when LTE will inevitably face its own sunset. Fortunately, this is unlikely to be a concern for at least 15 to 20 years. We've also seen the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus experience tremendous success while also opting for an integrated, irreplaceable LTE cellular communicator and WIFI card, so there's a good chance that the Edge will end up being just as successful. But we do want to give recognition to Resideo and their PROA7PLUS System for having the foresight to use fully replaceable LTE cellular radios (AT&T or Verizon), plus fully replaceable WIFI modules.

One thing new to the Edge that we have never seen on any other alarm control panel before is a 700-Series Z-Wave Controller. Also known as Z-Wave Plus Version 2, the 700-Series of Z-Wave Smart Home Automation promises significantly better wireless range and battery life, as well as much stronger wireless security when compared with previous iterations of Z-Wave technology. Although we haven't seen many 700-Series Z-wave devices hit the market just yet, it is worth mentioning that 2GIG recently released their own Z-Wave 700-Series Smart Thermostat, the 2GIG STZ-1. This smart thermostat can make a great addition to your new 2GIG Edge System and the automation network you plan to build around it. Remember that we have all sorts of Z-Wave lights and Z-Wave door locks available on our site for you to construct a complete smart home to make your life easier. But if you want to hold out a bit longer for the 700-Series Z-wave devices that will inevitably make their way to the marketplace sooner rather than later, then we don't blame you at all. And as you may have guessed, every Z-Wave home automation device that you pair locally with the 2GIG Edge will also be accessible remotely through Alarm.com once you get the system monitored with a plan that includes remote access.

With all of the introduction and explanation out of the way, let's take a look at the new products. First up is the base 2GIG Edge Panel, available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE:

• 2GIG Edge System w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge System w/ Verizon LTE

If you are starting from scratch, then you might prefer to purchase one of our 2GIG Edge Starter Kits, which also include some sensors for you to pair with the system, as well as a Honeywell LT-Cable for easily powering the system. You can choose whether you want a fully encrypted kit with only encrypted sensors or a standard wireless kit, where the included door and window sensors don't utilize wireless encryption. Keep in mind that you can always upgrade to encrypted sensors later if you start out with a non-encrypted system. And also remember that you will need to decide whether you want your 2GIG Edge System to have an AT&T LTE Communicator or a Verizon LTE Communicator. This may be the most important consideration prior to purchase since the LTE communicator can't be replaced. Be sure to check coverage maps for the area where the panel will be used, and choose whichever carrier will have the best signal in the area.

Our system kits come in two (2) sizes. First, we will look at the 3-1 Edge System Kits that include three (3) wireless door and window sensors, and one (1) wireless motion detection sensor. These 3-1 Kits are best-suited for use in a smaller home or an apartment. Here are our 2GIG Edge 3-1 System Kits:

• 2GIG Edge 3-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge 3-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE
• 2GIG Edge 3-1 Encrypted Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge 3-1 Encrypted Kit w/ Verizon LTE

We also have our 10-1 Edge System Kits that come with ten (10) door and window alarm sensors, and one (1) motion sensor. This size kit is best used for a larger home or a small business. Again, the same equivalents apply to this size, so you have four (4) possible kits to choose from. Here are the 2GIG Edge 10-1 System Kits from Alarm Grid:

• 2GIG Edge 10-1 Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge 10-1 Kit w/ Verizon LTE
• 2GIG Edge 10-1 Encrypted Kit w/ AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge 10-1 Encrypted Kit w/ Verizon LTE

Lastly, we want to check out the system accessories for the 2GIG Edge. There are a few usual suspects here, including a replacement transformer and a replacement backup battery, plus a specially prepared power cord released by 2GIG. But we think the most interesting accessory is the wireless touchscreen keypad built exclusively for use with the 2GIG Edge Alarm System. Again in a similar fashion to the IQ Panel 2 Plus, the 2GIG Edge Remote Keypad mimics the system's display and can perform virtually any system function, much like the IQ Remote. But unlike Qolsys and the IQ Remote, 2GIG has made their remote keypad with an end-user replaceable battery, which is a huge improvement in our eyes.

Here are the 2GIG Edge System Accessories:

• 2GIG AC1 Replacement Transformer
• 2GIG Edge 24+ Hour Backup Battery
• 2GIG Edge Prepared Cable w/ AC1 Barrel Connection
• 2GIG Edge Remote Keypad w/ Touchscreen Controls
• 2GIG Edge Remote Keypad Backup Battery

One final note about the 2GIG Edge is that there has been no indication that 2GIG intends to release a new "exclusive" sensor lineup for use with the system. Historically, this is a bit unusual, as you traditionally see a new security system (especially one as heavily promoted and anticipated as the 2GIG Edge) released alongside a new lineup of sensors designed specifically to accompany the system. Even the last major releases from 2GIG saw this, as the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e became synonymous with the encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors. We only mention this because it's likely that some users out there will be actively looking for sensors to add to their new 2GIG Edge System, and they may be surprised to learn that there is no special 2GIG Edge Sensor Family. However, you still have a plethora of great sensor options to choose from, as the 2GIG Edge thrives in terms of backward compatibility. As we mentioned earlier, the system supports encrypted sensors from the 2GIG eSeries Lineup, plus non-encrypted Honeywell 5800 Sensors (uni-directional only) and 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors. If you are looking to expand upon your 2GIG Edge Alarm System, then those three (3) sensor families give you some awesome options to choose from!

The 2GIG Edge System, our 2GIG Edge System Kits, and the 2GIG Edge Accessories are all available now, and they can be purchased from the Alarm Grid website. Do you have any thoughts or questions about the 2GIG Edge? Leave them down below as a comment. We would love to get some discussions started on this super exciting new security system. Do you think the 2GIG Edge has what it takes to compete with strong systems like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and Resideo PROA7PLUS? What aspect of the 2GIG Edge has you the most excited? Is there anything you would like to see in a future firmware update or patch for the Edge? Get the discussions started down below, as we look forward to hearing from you. And stay tuned to our blog for more security system news coming soon!

It has been a busy time for new products. We saw some new IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG 2-1 Kits yesterday, some new weatherproof mounting boxes for sirens on Monday, and the new PROA7 and PROA7C Panels last week. Today we have several new products to gloss over, so let's jump right into it!

First up is the Honeywell 4142BLK. This is a removable terminal block for Honeywell Polling Loop Panels, such as the Honeywell VISTA-128BPT, the Honeywell VISTA-250BPT, and the Honeywell VISTA-50P. What's great about this removable terminal block is that if you are replacing your wired alarm panel with a new one, you can keep all the existing devices (sensors, keypads, communicators, etc.) connected, and just remove the terminal block from the old panel, and connect it to the new one. This will save you the trouble of having to disconnect and reconnect each individual wire!

Next, we have some new mounting adapters for the Alarm.com ADC-V723 Outdoor Security Camera. If you want to mount your ADC-V723 on the outside of an outlet box, then you need one of these adapters. There is the Alarm.com ADC-OB101 for a single-gang outlet box, as well as the Alarm.com ADC-OB102 for a double-gang outlet box. A gasket and mounting screws come included for a complete installation.

The Alarm.com ADC-VDBA-PM is a replacement power module for the Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera. Normally the power module comes included with the ADC-VDB770. But if you lose or damage your initial one, then you can get this replacement to power your doorbell camera. Good on Alarm.com for offering this part!

Lastly, we have a pair of new backup batteries for the PROA7 and PROA7PLUS. We have the Honeywell Home PROA7BAT2 and the Honeywell Home PROA7BAT3. Both are listed as 24-hour backup batteries and will reliably keep your system running in the event of an electrical outage. Remember that you will need to replace your system's backup battery every few years, as batteries only have a limited useful life.

Got any questions or comments about these new products? Leave us a comment down below, as we would love to hear from you. As always, stay tuned to the Alarm Grid blog for new announcements and security news coming real soon!

New products keep coming! We have two (2) new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits. There is the Qolsys QK9201-AK2P-840 with Verizon LTE and the Qolsys QK9202-AK2P-840 with AT&T LTE. Both are 2-1 PowerG Kits with a 319.5 MHz IQ2+ System, one (1) PG9914 Motion, and two (2) PG9303 Door/Window Contacts.

What makes these new kits different from our other IQ2+ System Kits is that these are 2-1 Kits (2 Door/Window Sensors + 1 Motion) with PowerG Sensors. Our other 2-1 offerings, the Qolsys QK9201-AK2C and the Qolsys QK9202-AK2C include Qolsys S-Line Sensors, rather than the PowerG Sensors included in these new kits. And all the other Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Kits were in 3-1 or 10-1 sizes. But thanks to these new kits, you can now get a new 2-1 IQ2+ Kit with PowerG Sensors! These are fantastic wireless sensors that can work from up to 2,000 feet away from the IQ Panel 2 Plus System in open air, and they utilize 128-bit AES encryption for great security.

Your one choice with these two new kits is whether you want the 319.5 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus w/ Verizon LTE or the 319.5 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus w/ AT&T LTE. Other than the cellular carrier, these two kits are exactly the same. When deciding between AT&T and Verizon, just go with whichever network offers more reliable service in the area where the system will be used. Check coverage maps if you are unsure. Please note that we do not have 2-1 Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Kits for the 345 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus or the 433 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus. Only the 319.5 Mhz version is available in a 2-1 kit.

With the Qolsys QK9201-AK2P-840 or Qolsys QK9202-AK2P-840, you get all of the same great benefits as any other brand-new IQ Panel 2 Plus System. This system supports up to 128 wireless zones, Z-Wave Plus technology, and a plethora of great features like optional automatic Bluetooth disarming, security camera live-streaming, four (4) configurable partitions, and so much more. By activating the system with a cellular monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com, you will be able to control the system from anywhere in the world using your phone.

We hope that you find these new 2-1 Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus PowerG Kits useful. They are great for any small home or apartment, where only a few sensors are needed. We also recommend these kits for previous Interlogix System users who are looking to upgrade to a newer 319.5 MHz system. Please comment below with your thoughts on these new kits. Remember to stay tuned to the Alarm Grid blog for more security news coming soon!

Alarm Grid is starting off your week right with a pair of new weatherproof mounting boxes now available on our website. We have the Potter PL-BBK1 and the Cooper Wheelock WBB available for purchase right now. These convenient mounting boxes are great for protecting sirens and strobes.

These so-called "bell boxes" are used to secure and contain sirens and strobe lights and protect them against environmental damage from rain, wind, UV light, dust, and other unfavorable outdoor hazards. You have likely seen them used with fire alarm equipment, and these are typically considered as fire-safety products.

Both of our new offerings provide a tough, rugged plastic construction that will keep any internal sirens, sounders, and strobes active and operational for a very long time. Depending on the jurisdiction your location is in, or the type of system you have, you may be advised to purchase the Potter PL-BBK1, which comes in red. This red color may be required for your installation as part of fire code mandates. Meanwhile, the Cooper Wheelock WBB does not come in red, but rather it is solid in White (WBB-W) and Silver (WBB-S) variants.

Beyond color, the only other difference you will likely notice between these products is their size. The Potter PL-BBK1 measures 5.6"L x 4.3"W x 1.9"D, while the Copper Wheelock WBB has dimensions of 4.1"L x 4.1"W x 2.1"D. The difference isn't that pronounced, but the PL-BBK1 is unmistakably larger. Of course, you should go with whichever one is better-suited for your installation. You may want to check with your local fire marshal if the application involves fire safety.

We have been putting out quite a few new products lately! Remember late last week we announced that the Honeywell Home PROA7 and the Resideo PROA7C are now both available for purchase. Is there any product that you're dying to see on the Alarm Grid site? Or are you wanting to learn more about our monitoring services? Leave a comment down below with your requests. We look forward to hearing from you!

We are happy to announce that the Honeywell Home PROA7 and the Resideo PROA7C are now available. You can consider these as entry level versions of the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS and the Resideo PROA7PLUSC.

The best way to think of the PROA7 and PROA7C is that they are the PROA7PLUS without a Honeywell Home PROWIFIZW, no Bluetooth capabilities, and no front panel camera. It's the same as the PROA7PLUS, just with no WIFI, no Z-Wave, no optional automatic Bluetooth disarming, and no disarm photos. You can always add the PROWIFIZW Module later on to add WIFI and Z-Wave Plus, but Bluetooth and the front camera can never be added. Basically, you will always be working with a lesser version of the PROA7PLUS.

If you want to get a PROA7 or PROA7C monitored, then you will need to add a PROWIFIZW Module and/or one of the compatible LTE cellular communicators, which are the Honeywell Home PROLTE-A AT&T LTE Communicator and the Honeywell Home PROLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator. Getting the system monitored will also allow you to use Total Connect 2.0 to control the system remotely, provided that access to the service is included with your monitoring plan.

Remember that since the ProSeries System does not yet support local end-user programming, you will not be able to enroll any sensors with the PROA7 or PROA7C until you get it monitored. The Honeywell Home PROSIX and Honeywell SiX Series Sensors return as compatible encrypted peripherals for the systems, and you can also add a Honeywell Home PROTAKEOVER Module for legacy RF sensor support.

Any one of several older manufacturer's sensors can be used with the PROTAKEOVER Module. These include Honeywell 5800 series, 2GIG 345 MHz (non-encrypted), Qolsys/Interlogix 319.5 MHz, DSC, and Bosch which both use a variation of 433 MHz. Up to 250 zones in total can be used with the PROA7 or PROA7C.

As you may have guessed, the only difference between the Honeywell Home PROA7 and the Resideo PROA7C is that the PROA7 says "Honeywell Home" across its front, while the PROA7C says "Resideo" across its front. Other than that, they really are the same panel. Which one do you like more? Let us know in the comments down below. And remember to reach out to us with any questions you might have. As always, we look forward to hearing from you!

We have added some new products to the Alarm Grid website. These include two (2) additional polycarbonate plastic enclosures for safely storing and protecting alarm system equipment, plus a convenient mini piezo electric sounder for boosting keypad volume. Let's check out these products!

First up we have two (2) new polycarbonate protective enclosures from Mier, including the Mier BW-BWL1086 (10"L x 8"W x 6"D) and the Mier BW-SL14126C (14"L x 12"W x 6"D). You may recall the two (2) similar polycarbonate enclosures from STI that we discussed last week. These new offerings from Mier essentially accomplish the same thing, but we wanted to give our customers even more great options to choose from. Polycarbonate enclosures are great for protecting any wired to wireless converter modules and wireless receivers that may not function properly in a traditional metal enclosure. Polycarbonate enclosures are also safe to use outdoors, and they are a great option if you need to set up equipment in an area where it will need to withstand outside elements. This includes protection against harmful UV rays. Please note that the Mier BW-SL14126C is translucent and see-through for easy monitoring of interior LED lights. But the Mier BW-BWL1086 is opaque and not see-through. Keep that in mind if you decide to purchase.

Alarm Grid also now offers the Amseco PAL-328N. This is a small, but very versatile piezo-electric sounder that can be used with an operating voltage ranging from 3VDC to 28VDC, while only drawing 20mA of current. Applying more voltage will increase the maximum volume of the unit. If you only provide the minimum 3VDC, then the volume will be about 68 dB. But as you increase the voltage up to 28VDC, then the max volume raises to beyond 100 dB. While you probably won't use the Amseco PAL-328N as a siren, you can configure it on many panels to mimic some keypad sounds to increase the volume of those sounds. This can be very helpful for ensuring that you hear any Entry and Exit Delay sounds produced by your system's keypad. This can also be good for increasing the volume of system zone faults and chimes. We have seen the Amseco PAL-328N work great with wired systems, and it can also be used very nicely with many wireless all-in-one alarm panels, including the Honeywell LYNX Touch Systems. If you have been looking for an easy way to increase the sound of certain keypad sounds, then this might be the solution you need.

Do you have any products you want to see added to the Alarm Grid website? Please comment below and let us know. You might just see it in a future update. Stay tuned to our blog for more security news and updates from Alarm Grid, and we'll see you next time!

We are glad to announce that three (3) new products are now available for purchase on the Alarm Grid website. The new products include the STI EP121007-T and STI EP141207-T Polycarbonate Enclosures and the Alarm.com ADC-VDBA-WMK Wedge Mounting Kit for the ADC-VDB770 Video Doorbell Camera.

If you are familiar with hardwired alarm panels, then you likely know that their circuit board is typically housed inside of a protective enclosure or cabinet, rather than just laying around loose. Traditionally, these enclosures are made of metal, and they also house other relevant equipment like backup batteries and power supplies. But traditional metal alarm cabinets are not suitable for housing equipment associated with wireless RF signals, such as any wired to wireless converter units and wireless receivers. This is because the metal material is known to cause interference and disrupt wireless RF signals so that they do not travel as far. This is also why you will almost always see cellular or dual-path communicators mounted outside of an alarm panel's metal enclosure.

What makes polycarbonate plastic enclosures so great is that they do not have the same concerns as metal enclosures when it comes to wireless signal transmissions. This means that you can house wired to wireless converter modules in them so that everything stays neat and organized. If you ever wondered why the large enclosure for the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F is made of a plastic material, well now you know! That is the biggest benefit of our new polycarbonate enclosures. If you have a wired to wireless converter like a Honeywell 5800C2W then you can get one of these enclosures to house both the converter module itself and its accompanying backup battery. Everything will stay neat and organized, and your transition from a wired panel to a wireless alarm system with an accompanying wired to wireless converter will be made even easier!

There are also other, less common scenarios where you may find that a polycarbonate plastic enclosure is the way for you to go. Unlike metal enclosures, polycarbonate enclosures are suitable for use outside, as they protect against inclement weather and UV rays. With that in mind, they make a great resource if you are needing to use security equipment outside for some reason. For reference, the STI EP121007-T measures 12"H x 10" W x 7" D, while the STI EP141207-T clocks in at 14"H x 12"W x 7"D. Choose which size is better-suited for your application. It's also important to note that both of these plastic enclosures offer the added benefit of having a see-through translucent front cover so that you can easily see any important activity occurring inside, such as flashing LED lights that may indicate a trouble condition. Overall, these are both outstanding polycarbonate enclosures from the EnviroArmour Lineup from Safety Technology International (STI).

Alarm Grid also now offers the Alarm.com ADC-VDBA-WMK Wedge Mounting Kit. This camera accessory includes four (4) additional mounting wedge options for use with the Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera. The camera's mounting wedge determines its positioning angle, and ultimately its field of view (FoV). For more information on determining which mounting wedge to use with your Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera, please see this comprehensive FAQ. That FAQ outlines each of the seven (7) available mounting wedges for the ADC-VDB770.

Three (3) mounting wedges (A, B, and C) already come bundled with the ADC-VDB770 by default. But the other four (4) mounting wedges (D, E, F, and G) are only available as part of the ADC-VDBA-WMK bundle. If you determine that Wedge D, E, F, or G is best-suited for your application, then you should purchase the ADC-VDBA-WMK. But if you decide that A, B, or C is best for the job, then no extra purchase is needed. Remember, you will only use one (1) mounting wedge in the final installation for your doorbell camera! For a complete guide to installing the Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera, please check this FAQ.

If you have any questions about our new products - the STI EP121007-T, the STI EP141207-T, and the Alarm.com ADC-VDBA-WMK - or any of the other products on our website or our alarm monitoring services, send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We're here to check your emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!