Product Announcements Posts

We're here once again to remind you to upgrade the old 3G or CDMA cellular communicator for your alarm system to an LTE communicator! Once the associated cellular network is shut down, the old communicator will no longer work in any manner. This could leave your home or business vulnerable!

Security systems use internet and/or cellular communication to send out signals to central monitoring stations and/or interactive monitoring platforms like Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com. This is the very core principle of alarm monitoring. And if the associated communication network is shut down or fails, then alarm monitoring will become impossible.

Just like your phone, tablet, or computer, your alarm system cannot just magically send out signals. It needs equipment to accomplish this task. That equipment comes in the form of an alarm monitoring communicator. This is a piece of hardware either inside, or located nearby your alarm panel, much like what you would find inside of another electronic device that needs to communicate out and also receive incoming signals.

In the world of cellular communications, you have likely heard about the new 5G networks. These 5G networks represent the latest and greatest cellular technology available, and they are certainly going to change the game when it comes to mobile communication. But while service providers are working to develop new 5G infrastructure, they are also phasing out older technology. This includes the AT&T 3G Network and the Verizon CDMA Network.

If you have a system with a cellular communicator that works across a 3G network, such as the aforementioned AT&T 3G and Verizon CDMA Networks, then time is running out for you to upgrade. While we cannot provide an exact date of shut down, we can confirm that it is due to occur sometime in 2022.

Now, you might be thinking, "Well gee, 2022 is a long way away. I'll just wait until then." And really, we can't force you to upgrade now. We have already promised to continue supporting older communicators for as long as possible. But if you have the means to buy a new cellular communicator and keep your existing system running, then we urge you, as professionals, to make the jump sooner rather than later.

Time is moving quickly, and we can all but guarantee you that some people will not get the memo, and they will get left behind. We understand. For many people, a security system is not something that is on their minds regularly. Historically, this has been a piece of hardware that you hide away somewhere, while only interacting with a wired keypad. But don't take this deadline lightly. Make the jump sooner rather than later, and save yourself the trouble.

We are also often asked by people upgrading from 3G or CDMA which type of communicator they should get. The answer to that is an LTE communicator. LTE is the direct successor to 3G and CDMA. If you have heard the term "4G LTE", that's where LTE comes from. There have been LTE communicators available for security systems for a few years now. They work great, and they can keep a system monitored well into the very distant future.

You might be wondering why we aren't recommending a 5G alarm monitoring communicator. The truth is that 5G technology is still so new that there aren't really any 5G communicators available quite yet. We are sure that we will have some 5G communicators available to sell and promote in the near future. But for right now, LTE is the best available. And since LTE already provides fast speeds, there really won't be much difference for a security system.

Another common concern we encounter is that end users are fearful that LTE will also one day become obsolete. Our response to this concern is that LTE will most likely remain active and in place for many, many years, even decades into the future. The term LTE itself even stands for "Long Term Evolution". Cellular service providers envision 5G as the primary network of the future, with LTE infrastructure being kept in service as a reliable backup.

It's important to understand that building a new nationwide cellular network is not cheap. Every cellular service provider is spending billions to build the necessary infrastructure. To them, this is not a joke or a game. The 5G networks are being built to last. They enable the remarkably fast speeds needed to support future technology. The idea here is that they are spending huge amounts of money now so that they do not need to build new networks later.

And while 5G cellular networks are the technology of the future, the current LTE networks are also not going anywhere anytime soon. Why? They are designed to serve as backup options once 5G is fully in place. This is much like the current 3G and CDMA networks. They are a backup to the current LTE networks. If you have ever noticed that your LTE phone is also capable of using 3G, that is why. It's in case LTE is ever unavailable for some reason.

The difference with 5G is that, once in place, it is going to be the premier option for a very, very long time. The very idea of a supposed "6G network" isn't really even fathomable at the moment. We're likely talking decades from now. What you can expect in the near future is that 5G will become the primary technology, while LTE will be kept in-service as a backup.

And again, we hear some more cries from people, "Well, I'll just wait for a 5G communicator to come out." The truth is that with alarm systems, the difference between LTE and 5G really won't matter all that much. Security systems do not transmit large amounts of data. Yes, 5G might make some automation commands a hair faster. But LTE can already handle this quite well. And it's very possible that 5G communicators might not be ready before the 3G sunset.

Long story short, you should upgrade to LTE as soon as you can if you intend on using cellular communication with your security system. Remember that cellular service is much more reliable than WIFI connectivity. Even in the year 2020, internet outages are relatively common. They likely always will be. That is why users are willing to pay a premium for cellular monitoring service. Cellular all but ensures your system will always stay connected.

While your 3G or CDMA communicator might be working great right now (as it always has been), you will wake up one day (in 2022) only to find a scary "Comm Fail" message with no quick solution. And if you are cell-only, your panel will be offline, and your home or business will be vulnerable. Don't let that happen. Just make the jump to LTE as soon as you can.

Alarm Grid offers LTE cellular communicators for many types of alarm systems. We can help you get exactly what you need so your transition is as seamless as possible. As of this writing, there won't be any increase in your monthly bill. You will pay exactly the same monthly fee for cellular monitoring service using a new LTE communicator as what you pay with a 3G or CDMA communicator now. You only need to buy the new LTE module. That's it.

And if you're worried about needing to install your new LTE communicator, fear not! These devices are super easy to install. And if you're monitored by Alarm Grid, we will be more than happy to help you through the installation process. That's our job. Every day, we encounter new and inexperienced users and help them monitor their homes and businesses. And that includes keeping existing systems running. We love what we do, and we're happy to help.

Maybe you aren't sure which LTE communicator you need for your system? Hey, we totally understand! It's not like you're completely obsessed with this stuff (like we are). Just shoot us an email with a picture of your panel, and we can help you explore your options. If you can get us a picture of the panel's inside with its current communicator, then that's even better!

Like always, the best email to reach us is support@alarmgrid.com. We'd love to hear from you, whether you're an existing Alarm Grid customer, or if you're looking for the very best in DIY security. Maybe you would prefer to talk on the phone? That's cool too. Our number is (888) 818-7728, and we happily answer phones from 9am to 8pm ET Monday thru Friday.

Our goal is to make the 3G and CDMA sunset as easy and as seamless for our customers (and future customers) as possible. The time to take action is now. We can help you get what you need so that you and the people around you stay safe and protected. The 3G sunset is serious, and we don't want you to get left behind. Please, upgrade now. We are grateful to have you as a member of the Alarm Grid family, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Alarm Grid has been beta testing the upcoming Honeywell ProA7 Panel. This will become the first newly released wireless security system from Resideo after being spun-off by Honeywell. The panel supports some nice new features, and it is expected to be used by DIYers and professionals alike.

The first thing we love about the Honeywell ProA7Plus Security System is how slim and non-obtrusive it is. Honeywell Home has recognized that a security system is no longer something you hide and tuck away. It is a fixture in your home, and it should look nice on a wall or standing on a table. With its tablet-like profile, this panel was specifically built with the modern homeowner or innovative business owner in mind. Once again, Honeywell has proven that home or small business security is a matter you can take into your own hands.

We have also confirmed that the Resideo ProA7 will have a built-in Z-Wave Plus 500-Series Chipset for supporting a variety of smart home automation devices. You can build around the system and add devices like door locks, smart lights, and thermostats for controlling the temperature. Resideo has also stated that the system will support partitioning, which makes it ideal for multi-family homes, rental properties, rooms with important documents, and so much more.

Beyond that, we cannot confirm any other major details. However, we do predict that HomeKit functionality will return for this system. It is also expected that Honeywell will release a new ProSeries Sensor lineup for exclusive use with this system. We can expect the sensors to utilize top-of-the-line wireless encryption and offer a longer communication range than previous Honeywell offerings. We have not received word if the ProA7 will be backwards compatible with Honeywell 5800 Sensors and/or Honeywell SiX Sensors. We also don't have any type of ETA, but we hope it will come fairly soon.

One last consideration for the Resideo ProA7 is that it will likely support IP-only monitoring service. Resideo tends to make cellular communication optional for their systems when it comes to alarm monitoring. The only requirement is that the panel is connected with the AlarmNet360 Servers. This can be through IP and/or cellular service. While cellular connectivity is recommended for superior reliability, many users elect to keep costs as low as possible by going IP only. This will likely make the Resideo ProA7 the top choice for anyone simply wanting basic low-cost monitoring service without cellular backup. We expect Resideo to sell standalone communicators that can be easily added if cellular monitoring is desired.

Alarm Grid will make sure to keep you up to date as we learn more about this exciting new panel. If you are looking for a new panel right away, then you might also consider the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. That is a great system for anyone looking to start new monitoring service. Another panel to look at is Honeywell's current flagship panel, the Honeywell Lyric Controller. The Lyric is ideal for HomeKit compatibility and IP-only monitoring. And if you want more information about these panels or our monitoring services, then the best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. Our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Users of 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Systems now have a great new environmental sensor option in the 2GIG FT6e-345 Wireless Encrypted Flood & Temperature Sensor. The versatile sensor offers water leak, high temperature, and freeze detection. It uses encryption for enhanced wireless security.

Installing flood sensors and temperature sensors is a great way to prevent serious property damage to your home or business. You can get remote alerts from your monitored security system through an interactive platform like Alarm.com. This way, you will be notified right after the water leak begins or your HVAC system malfunctions so that you can take action before significant damage occurs. This can save you thousands.

What's interesting about the 2GIG FT6e-345 is that it does not use a detached probe for flood detection. Instead, there are built-in metal contacts on the top and the bottom of the sensor to detect leaks. The paths leading up to these contacts are sloped so that liquid is detected faster. This is important for ensuring a fast response in case of a flood or serious water leak.

You do not need any tools to install the 2GIG FT6e-345. Simply place it in a location where leaks are likely to occur, and program the sensor to the panel. Popular locations for the 2GIG FT6e-345 include underneath sinks, below hot water heaters, under refrigerators, and behind toilets. You might also use one in your basement if it is prone to flooding.

Another great aspect of the 2GIG FT63-345 is that it makes for an effective temperature sensor. For high temperature detection, the sensor alerts the system upon sensing a temperature of 95°F or higher for three (3) consecutive minutes. On the low end, the sensor sends out an alert upon sensing a temperature of 41°F or lower for three (3) consecutive minutes. This will give you time to take action before your pipes freeze.

The 2GIG FT6e-345 uses three (3) system zones for full functionality. Each wireless zone is programmed with a different Loop Number for different functionality. Loop 1 is for flood detection. Loop 2 is for high temperature detection. Loop 3 is for freeze detection. If you do not need to use each function for the sensor, then you can skip programming the zone for the associated Loop Number.

We are excited to welcome the 2GIG FT6e-345 as a new addition to the 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensor lineup! Remember that using encrypted sensors makes it virtually impossible for potential intruders to hack or spoof your system. For anyone with a 2GIG GC2e or GC3e System, using 2GIG eSeries Sensors is strongly recommended. They are super easy to program, and they provide effective results.

If you have any questions about the 2GIG FT6e-345 or any of our other products, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Our support team operates from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Those looking for a new outdoor motion sensor have a great new option available with the Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2. This is an outdoor motion sensor with a max coverage area 30 by 40 feet and a 180° degree field of view. It is compatible with systems that support Honeywell 5800 345 MHz Sensors.

Many homeowners are concerned about unwanted activity occurring outside their homes. This can include someone lurking around the back yard or a person vandalizing property. Outdoor motion detection sensors are great for monitoring for this type of activity and making sure that no suspicious activities area occurs. Wireless outdoor motion sensors are perfect for detecting such instances and keeping the home safe. A single 5800PIR-OD2 can provide reliable detection coverage across a maximum area of 30 feet by 40 feet.

The Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2 is a simple, yet effective motion sensor that you can count on for monitoring your home's exterior. Like all passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors, the 5800PIR-OD2 works by detecting the changes in infrared energy that occur with movement. This 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Series Sensor works with a wide variety of panels and systems, including the Honeywell Lyric, the Honeywell LYNX Touch Systems, a Honeywell VISTA System with an added wireless receiver, the 2GIG Panels, and the 345 MHz Version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus.

As an outdoor motion sensor, the Honeywell 5800PIR-OD2 has an ingress protection rating of IP54. It offers a wireless communication range of 200 nominal feet. The sensor allows for both vertical and horizontal detection zone adjustments. User can increase or decrease the pulse count for the sensor to adjust device sensitivity. White light immunity helps ensure that the device can detect activity in any lighting environment. Other features include a big guard, anti-mask protection, a tamper switch, and an LED light for walk testing,

The Honeywell PIR-OD2 is available from Alarm Grid now! If you have any questions about this new product or any of our monitoring services, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

There is a fantastic new stream video recorder option for business owners using Alarm.com Security Cameras in the Alarm.com ADC-CSVR126 Commercial Stream Video Recorder. The device is capable of storing up to 16 TB of video footage, and it allows for both local and remote viewing.

Alarm Grid has previously offered the Alarm.com ADC-SVR122 Stream Video Recorder, which was more suitable for residential use. However, the new Alarm.com ADC-CSVR126 is built for commercial use. It can store up to 16 TB of recorded clips. which is perfect for large businesses using multiple cameras. Up to (16) Alarm.com Cameras can be paired with a single ADC-CSV126 unit, giving you the flexibility you need to achieve a complete and robust video surveillance setup.

Remember that using a Stream Video Recorder device is the only way to achieve a continuous 24-hour recording schedule with Alarm.com Security Cameras. You can also set recording based on a customized schedule if you don't need continuous recording. Stored clips can be viewed locally using a monitor (HDMI and VGA outputs) or remotely using the Alarm.com website or mobile app.

A hardwired ethernet connection is needed to connect the unit with the Alarm.com Servers. An ethernet cable comes included for this purpose. For local viewing, the device offers 4K playback when using HDMI connectivity, and Full HD playback when using VGA connectivity. Local display options include live view, video playback, and clip export. Playback speed options include 1x, 4x, and 8x. A USB mouse (included) must be connected for local operation and control.

Alarm Grid offers two (2) version of the Alarm.com ADC-CSVR126. One comes with a single 2 TB hard drive installed, with the other hard drive slot being empty. This provides a total of 2 TB of storage. The other version comes with dual 6 TB hard drives installed, for a total of 12 TB of storage. If you want to achieve the maximum storage limit of 16 TB, we recommend purchasing the 2 TB model, removing the installed 2 TB hard drive, and installing an 8 TB in each port. The two (2) hard drives together (8 TB each) will provide a total of 16 TB of clip storage space.

In order to use the Alarm.com ADC-CSVR126 and Alarm.com Security Cameras, you will need access to the Alarm.com platform for video surveillance. If you have a security system that you want to use for monitoring, you might consider an Alarm Grid Platinum Level Plan (Self or Full). If you don't have a security system and you are strictly looking for video surveillance, then we recommend the Alarm Grid Video-Only Plan. Remember that you will need to register the ADC-CSVR126 and your Alarm.com Cameras with your Alarm.com account in order for them to work.

If you have any questions about the Alarm.com ADC-CSVR126 or any of our other products or services, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Our team is happy to help you find the products and services to meet your unique needs. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

As you have likely heard, mainland China is currently dealing with the Coronavirus crisis. This disease has resulted in inventory shortages and manufacturing delays throughout the security industry. Certain products sold by Alarm Grid may be currently unavailable or delayed as a result.

Many of the products sold by Alarm Grid are backordered as China deals with this epidemic. This is completely out of our control, and there is very little we can do to combat the issue. If an item you have ordered is unavailable, we will do our best to recommend a suitable replacement or provide you with an estimate on when the product should be available. We apologize for any inconvenience that may result from this issue. We ask for your understanding and patience during this time. If you would like to know the status of a specific product or if you have any questions about any of the products on our site, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

We have great news for Total Connect 2.0 users today, as Resideo has made it recently made it possible for a maximum of five (5) SkyBell Video Doorbell devices to a single Total Connect 2.0 account. SkyBell devices are still integrated with Total Connect 2.0 in the same manner as before.

If you are unfamiliar with SkyBell Doorbells, they are perfect for monitoring the front of your home and getting activity alerts. These devices conveniently connect with your home's WIFI network, and they can easily replace nearly any doorbell that uses a standard mechanical chime. There is also an adapter available that allows a SkyBell to replace a doorbell that uses a digital chime. Total Connect 2.0 can send updates to your phone whenever a SkyBell device detects motion or whenever someone rings the doorbell. You can also get updates through the native SkyBell app.

Previously, it was possible to only enroll a single SkyBell device with a Total Connect 2.0 account. Users wanting to integrate a second SkyBell device with Total Connect 2.0 needed to get a second account set up. But for many users that will no longer be necessary. And if you were hesitant about getting a second SkyBell because you didn't want to pay extra for an Alarm Grid Video-Only Account, well no you no longer need to worry about that. This is truly the perfect time for you to expand upon your existing SkyBell account.

You do not need true video monitoring service to start using SkyBell Cameras. As long as you have a Total Connect 2.0 account with the SkyBell feature enabled, you will be able to integrate up to five (5) devices with your account. You will need to have your monitoring company enable the feature. Alarm Grid will enable the feature at no additional charge for customers who use our monitoring services. Just contact us at support@alarmgrid.com if you need to have the feature enabled.

We understand that there are some Alarm Grid customers who have existing video accounts for the sole purpose of adding extra SkyBell device. There are even a few Alarm Grid customers with third and fourth accounts just for using extra SkyBell Cameras. The great news for these customers is that these extra accounts no longer necessary. We can deactivate your extra accounts if you have them and help you set up all your SkyBell devices into a single account, provided that you have five (5) or less SkyBell devices. If you fall into this category, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com.

We are also aware that there may be some customers who want to use more than five (5) SkyBell Cameras with a single Total Connect 2.0 account. Unfortunately, this is not possible. This 5 device limit is strict, and we have no way of increasing it. However, you can still use the same solution as before for adding additional SkyBell Cameras beyond the limit. You can add an additional Alarm Grid Video Monitoring Account, and you will be able to set up your additional SkyBell devices with that account. Each account will allow you to use five (5) additional SkyBell Cameras. If you want to use up to ten (10) SkyBell Cameras, you will need two (2) accounts. If you want to use 15 SkyBells, you will need three (3) accounts. And so on.

At this time, Alarm Grid only sells one (1) SkyBell Camera for use with Total Connect 2.0. This is the Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM-TRIM. That is the rectangular version of the SkyBell. The round model, the Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM is discontinued and no longer sold by Alarm Grid. But if you come across the round model somewhere else, then you can certainly set it up for use with Total Connect 2.0. Just remember never to use an Alarm.com SkyBell with Total Connect 2.0 or the SkyBell App.

Keep in mind that SkyBell clips are stored on the SkyBell servers. They are not stored on Total Connect 2.0 or AlarmNet360. This means that SkyBell clips will not count towards your Total Connect 2.0 recording limits. They will also not count towards your security camera limits. If you already have Total Connect 2.0 Security Cameras set up, then you can add up to five (5) SkyBell devices without needing to change or remove any of your existing cameras. Remember that SkyBell video clips are available from the SkyBell servers for up to seven (7) days. After that, they are lost forever and no longer available. But it is possible to download and save any clip for permanent use. Just make sure you do so before the clip is deleted forever.

If you want to learn more about the SkyBell Cameras or our monitoring service for accessing Total Connect 2.0 using a Honeywell Security System, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We maintain support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is proud to announce that new Honeywell Lyric System Kits are now available! These new kits come included with Honeywell 5800MINI Door/Window Sensors, which are easy to enroll and install. Now is the perfect time to get started with a new Honeywell Lyric Security System!

Customers can choose between the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK Kit and the Honeywell LYRIC5800PK10 Kit. The LYRIC5800PK Kit includes three (3) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. This is a good kit for a smaller home or an apartment where not many sensors are needed. If you have a larger home or business, then the LYRIC5800PK10 Kit is most likely the preferred option. That kit includes ten (10) door and window sensors and one (1) motion sensor. Of course, both kits can be easily expanded upon if needed. The Lyric supports 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Sensors, 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors, and 128-bit AES encrypted Honeywell SiX Series Sensors.

Previously, Alarm Grid offered Lyric System Kits that featured the VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Contacts. The Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors offer the exact same performance, and they have an identical appearance. The only difference is that the Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors have a red circuit board, while the one for the VERSA-2GIG is yellow. But with the cover closed, you won't be able to see the difference. Both sensors enroll in the same manner, and they both provide excellent function as door and window contacts.

We have included some other accessories with these kits to help you get started. Both kits feature the Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Sensor. This passive infrared (PIR) motion detection sensor offers a coverage area of 40 feet by 56 feet, and it provides pet immunity for small animals weighing up to 80 pounds. As this sensor is part of the SiX Series lineup, it utilizes 128-bit AES encryption for enhanced wireless security. This military-grade encryption makes it nearly impossible for others to hack or takeover. And since the Lyric System supports up to 128 wireless zones, you will have no problem expanding on the system later if needed.

For monitoring service, the Lyric comes with a built-in WIFI card. This allows the system to connect with the AlarmNet360 Servers, provided that you obtain an appropriate monitoring plan. You should also make sure that your monitoring plan includes access to Total Connect 2.0, as that will really unlock some exciting features and capabilities for your system. By accessing TC2 through a web browser or mobile app, you can arm and disarm your system, control Z-Wave home automation devices, check system status and more. Speaking of Z-Wave, the Lyric Panel includes a built-in Z-Wave controller for adding devices like lights, locks and thermostats. You can create Total Connect smart scenes for automatic operation of these devices based on predetermined system events.

But perhaps the biggest benefit to the Lyric Alarm System is its ability to be used with Apple HomeKit. This is an interactive platform for iOS users that offers some impressive features when paired with a Lyric Alarm Panel. You can have your HomeKit devices respond automatically based on certain events of your Lyric System. And if you have a compatible HomeKit Hub, such as an iPad or an Apple TV, then you can control your Lyric System remotely using Siri voice commands sent from your iPhone. Simply put, this integration is awesome, and you will surely want to take advantage of it as much as possible! Just remember that you need to have the Lyric activated for monitoring service in order to enable it with Apple HomeKit.

We are sure that you will love your new Lyric System Kit. The panel is super easy to operate, and you will love its 7-inch full-color touchscreen display. And it looks great whether mounted on a wall or rested on a desk or table using the Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount. If you have any questions about our new Lyric 5800MINI Kits, or if you want to learn more about our monitoring plans, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid is now offering Honeywell LYNX Touch LTE upgrade kits that each include a brand-new LTE communicator and a Honeywell LYNXTOUCH-MSD Updater Tool for updating the system to the latest firmware version. It has never been easier to upgrade a Honeywell LYNX Touch System to use LTE!

The two (2) new Alarm Grid LTE upgrade kits for the LYNX Touch Panels are the Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57A (AT&T LTE) and the Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57V (Verizon LTE). These kits are recommended for anyone with an L5200, L5210, or L7000 that needs a firmware update to support a new LTE communicator. The AT&T LTE version requires firmware update 9.00.201 or higher, while the Verizon LTE version needs update 9.00.209 or higher. If your system is already on a high enough firmware version, then you should just simply buy the standalone communicator module. Also keep in mind that these kits cannot be used with the older L5100 and L5000 LYNX Touch Panels. Those two panels cannot be used with any LTE communicator in any circumstance.

If you aren't sure what firmware version your LYNX Touch Panel is running, you can check by choosing the following options from the main screen: Security > More > Tools > enter your Master Code > Test. You will then access the system's Test Menu, where the firmware version will be displayed at the top of the screen. As you can see in the photo, this L7000 is on a high enough firmware version to support both the AT&T LTE Communicator and the Verizon LTE Communicator.

Any alarm system using cellular communication should be set up with an LTE communicator. And if you have a system that is using a 3G or CDMA communicator, then it is imperative that you upgrade to LTE as soon as possible. Although Alarm Grid will continue to support non-LTE communicators for as long as possible, these communicators will stop working once their associated cellular networks are shut down. This is expected to occur sometime in 2022. The clock is ticking, and you will need to upgrade to LTE if you want to continue using the same system.

Additionally, an LTE communicator will provide better reliability and overall performance than a non-LTE communicator. This is because LTE cellular networks offer faster speeds and improved dependability when compared with older 3G and CDMA networks. By using an LTE communicator, you will receive a quicker emergency response if an alarm occurs on your system. You may also notice that your system responds more quickly to remote commands sent from Total Connect 2.0. This simple change is a great way to improve your alarm system and help it work more effectively.

Some users have expressed concern with LTE communicators, stating that they too will eventually need to be replaced in favor of eventual 5G cellular communicators. We want to address those concerns and say that this will most likely not be an issue until decades in the future. Cellular service providers have repeatedly stated that they plan to maintain and support the infrastructure for their LTE networks for a very, very long time. Even as 5G networks are inevitably introduced and 5G communicators for security systems become a thing, your LTE communicator will still work fine. This is truly a long-term solution that you can count on.

With the impending shut down of 3G and CDMA networks, Resideo stopped allowing activations for those communicators in June of last year. Any new cellular activation must be done with an LTE communicator. You also have the option of activating a LYNX Touch System on IP only by using a Honeywell L5100-WIFI Communicator. This can be a good option if you want to save money in monitoring expenses, as most alarm companies charge less for IP only service. But you should be aware that an internet outage will take your panel offline if you don't have cellular backup. A new L5100-WIFI module will require Firmware Version 8.00.183 on a Honeywell LYNX Touch Panel.

You might also be wondering whether you should get the Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57A for AT&T LTE service or the Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57V for Verizon LTE service. The answer is that it depends on the network coverage in your area. You should go with whichever network provides more reliable service in your area, regardless of what provider you use for a personal phone. You should check coverage maps and decide based on the available information. And if you live in a rural area without adequate coverage from either network, then we will be happy to discuss cellular antenna and cellular amplifier options that can boost your system's cellular signals to reliable levels.

Whether you use LTE cellular, IP only, or dual-path connectivity with both IP and cellular, activating an AlarmNet Communicator with your LYNX Touch System will make it compatible with Total Connect 2.0. This is an interactive security and automation platform that you can use to control your system remotely from a web browser or mobile app. The service can be used to arm/disarm, check system status, and perform automation functions from pretty much anywhere in the world.

Remember that any communicator will require monitoring service in order to be activated. If you are shopping around for a monitoring plan, make sure to check out Alarm Grid. Our Gold and Platinum Level Plans (Self or Full) can be used with a LYNX Touch System that is set up for cellular service. Our lower-level Bronze and Silver Plans are good if you decide to use the system for IP only, without cellular backup. More information on all our plans can be found on our monitoring page.

If you have any questions about our new Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57A and Honeywell LTEUPGKT-L57V Upgrade Kits, or any of the other products on our website, then we encourage you to reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. This is also a great email to contact if you are considering starting service with Alarm Grid. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Anyone looking to bring existing hardwired sensors to a new 345 MHz wireless system will be delighted to learn that we have reduced the price of the Honeywell 5800C2W Wired to Wireless Converter to just $49.99. Now is the perfect time to buy this awesome wired to wireless converter module!

If you aren't familiar with the Honeywell 5800C2W or wired to wireless converters in general, then allow us to give you a quick lesson. A wired to wireless converter essentially replaces a hardwired alarm panel so that you can bring existing wired sensors over to a wireless system. Typically, a wired to wireless converter module will be installed in the previous location of the wired panel. All of the existing wired sensors will connect with this module. The wired to wireless converter can then transmit wireless signals to the new wireless panel on the behalf of these sensors. The wireless system will then recognize the wired sensors as wireless sensors.

In the case of the Honeywell 5800C2W, the module transmits signals at 345 MHz. This makes it compatible with any system that supports the 345 MHz wireless frequency. Systems that support this frequency include the Honeywell Lyric Controller, the 2GIG GC3e, and the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus with 345 MHz Daughtercard, among others. If you aren't sure whether or not your system supports 345 MHz signals, then you can always contact us for help.

Please note that while the Honeywell 5800C2W comes with its own transformer, you must provide your own cabling to make the connection. If you ever need to buy a new standalone transformer for your Honeywell 5800C2W, you can purchase one from us. The 5800C2W AC Transformer is sold under the part name Honeywell 300-07052. You will also need to provide your own backup battery to keep the 5800C2W running during an electrical outage. The UltraTech 1240 Battery is perfect for this task. The 5800C2W comes with a battery harness included for completing the connection.

Each wired sensor used with the 5800C2W will require its own wireless zone on the wireless panel. These zones are configured individually, so you will need to enroll each sensor one by one. The 5800C2W can support up to nine (9) zones. If you have additional hardwired sensors beyond that, then you will need additional 5800C2W units. You can use as many Honeywell 5800C2W modules as you need, as long as you do not exceed the total number of wireless zones on your panel. Please note that the 5800C2W does not support Zone Doubling. Additionally, life-safety sensors like smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors cannot be used with the Honeywell 5800C2W.

The Honeywell 5800C2W is now available from Alarm Grid for just $49.99. We are also excited to announce that our Honeywell 5800C2WPK Wired to Wireless Kit has also been reduced in price, and it is now available for just $65.99. Our Honeywell 5800C2WPK Kit includes a brand-new 5800C2W Converter, a power transformer, a Honeywell LT-Cable for connecting the transformer, an UltraTech 1240 Battery, and a battery harness for connecting the battery. And if you are looking to get started with a new system as well, you might consider our Honeywell LYRICC2WPK Kit. This system kit includes everything in the 5800C2WPK Kit, plus a brand-new Honeywell Lyric Controller and an additional LT-Cable for powering the panel. This is a truly amazing bundle that provides an excellent way to upgrade the old and outdated wired system in your home or business to a state-of-the-art wireless system that is an absolute joy to use.

If you have any questions about the Honeywell 5800C2W or any of our aforementioned kits, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Remember that our support hours run from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. And if you haven't signed up for monitoring service from Alarm Grid yet, make sure to check out our monitoring page to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you!

Update: We have also reduced the cost of our certified refurbished Honeywell 5800C2W to just $39.99. If you want to learn more about our certified refurbished Honeywell products, please check this prior blog post.