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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!

We have a relatively short post today, as we just wanted to say "Thank You" to 2GIG for featuring Alarm Grid on the 2GIG Instagram Page, @2gigsecurity. 2GIG posted our unboxing video of the new 2GIG Edge Security System. Thank you 2GIG, we're glad that you liked our unboxing video!

The 2GIG Edge is a wireless all-in-one alarm panel with a 7-inch touchscreen controller, built-in WIFI and LTE cellular, an integrated Z-Wave Plus V2 700-Series controller, support for up to 100 wireless zones, facial recognition disarming, Smart Area Partitions, optional Bluetooth disarming, full connectivity with the Alarm.com platform, and so much more! The system is available now on the Alarm Grid website in standalone AT&T and Verizon variants, or in one of our complete security system starter kits that include everything you need for alarm monitoring!

The unboxing video that 2GIG reposted is one of our very first in a new series by Alarm Grid, where "James the Video Guy" unboxes various alarm control panels and security system kits to show you exactly what's inside and what comes included. While James is usually known for his work behind the camera, this new series has given him a chance to step into the spotlight and showcase some of the most popular products offered by Alarm Grid. You can see the full 2GIG Edge Unboxing Video down below. We also made a blog post about our new unboxing videos back in April, which you can view here.

Thanks again to 2GIG for featuring us on their Instagram page. If you have any requests for what you would like to see in a future unboxing video from Alarm Grid, please let us know. You can leave a comment down below to make your request. We hope to have more videos like this available in the future. We will be sure to let you know as they come out. You can also leave a comment below to share your thoughts on our unboxing videos or any other videos featured on the Alarm Grid YouTube Channel. Thanks for reading, and we'll be back with more great security system content coming soon!

Fans of the video game franchise Super Smash Bros. are accustomed to the seemingly never-ending stream of rumors and speculation from fans. One of the hottest rumors right now is that Crash Bandicoot may soon be making his series debut. To Alarm.com though, "Crash & Smash" is nothing new.

If you aren't familiar with Super Smash Bros. and/or the speculation that Crash might soon "join" Smash, then let us take a quick second to get you up to speed. Super Smash Bros. is a video game franchise produced by Nintendo. It takes characters from many different series and pits them up against each other in combat. The newest entry in the series is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) for the Nintendo Switch. Although SSBU first became available back in late 2018, Nintendo has offered several downloadable updates since the game's initial release. The updates provide bonus content, such as new characters to play as, and new stages to battle on. More recently, there has been a widespread rumor that Crash Bandicoot, the main character of his own self-titled video game series, will be added as a playable SSBU character in a future update. Many gamers have been getting excited for the possibility of "Crash In Smash", though it is still only a rumor for now.

While seeing the beloved Crash Bandicoot CRASH the Super Smash Bros. party would be a total blast, another company has been offering their own take on "Crash & Smash" for many years now. This company is a lot closer to home for Alarm Grid, as they're actually one of our most favorite security notification and automation platforms. It's none other than Alarm.com!

As you may have guessed, the Alarm.com version of "Crash & Smash" has nothing to do with video games, Crash Bandicoot, or Super Smash Brothers. We're sorry to disappoint you! Regardless, Crash & Smash is still an important feature that provides an extra layer of protection for your monitored home or business. The fact also remains that Alarm.com has been offering Crash & Smash technology since long before any serious "Crash In Smash" rumors began circulating the internet. Consider Alarm.com to be the pioneers of Crash & Smash, while Nintendo is simply playing catchup!

Silliness and wordplay aside, we're going to take the time to talk about Crash & Smash for Alarm.com, including how it works and why it is important. We actually put out a post two years ago on that very subject. Please go check it out if you haven't already seen it. That aside, we're still happy to provide a refresher.

Crash & Smash refers to special technology that helps ensure that a user and/or the central station are properly alerted in the event that an intruder destroys an alarm system and/or its alarm monitoring communicator, during the entry delay or communicator delay period. Without Crash & Smash logic, this could leave the system in a state where it is unable to send signals and communicate the alarm. Not only is Crash & Smash protection crucial in worst-case scenarios with the most persistent and destructive intruders, it also provides end-users with the safety and peace of mind that they deserve.

To understand Crash & Smash for Alarm.com, you must first understand Entry Delay periods and communicator delay periods and how they work. In simplest terms, an Entry Delay refers to a countdown timer that goes into effect after an Entry/Exit Zone (i.e. a door used for coming and going, like a front door or garage door) is faulted, or activated, while the security system is armed. The Entry Delay timer gives the user an opportunity to prove to the system that they are an authorized individual, and not an intruder breaking in. A communicator delay period actually prevents the system from communicating an alarm signal for a designated period of time after the panel begins signaling that an alarm has occurred. Many systems have this type of delay enabled by default as a false alarm reduction feature.

The most common way for a user to prove to a security system that they are an authorized individual is to enter a predetermined secret code that has been set up with the system. An authorized user will know the code, and they will be able to quickly enter it and disarm the system before the Entry Delay period expires. Meanwhile, an intruder who doesn't know the code would be highly unlikely to guess it during this relatively short countdown timer. The probable outcome then is that the timer would expire before a valid code is provided. Once that happens, the system will go into alarm. Assuming that the system is monitored, and no communication delay has been programmed, alerts would be sent to the central station and/or the end-user directly, depending upon the user's monitoring plan.

Some of the newest and most advanced alarm panels available today allow users to verify authorization using other methods besides classic code entry. For example, the 2GIG Edge uses facial recognition technology, and the panel's front camera can scan and identify the user's unique "facial biometrics", thus making it possible to verify authorization without entering a code. In any case, the general principle of an Entry Delay remains the same. A user must verify their authorization with the system within a short period of time, or else an alarm will occur.

Crash & Smash protection addresses the possibility that the security system, or more specifically, the system's communicator, could be destroyed during the Entry Delay period. An uninformed intruder might think that if they destroy the alarm system before the Entry Delay period expires and the system goes into alarm that no alarm signal will be sent out, and the security system will fail. That is not the case with Crash & Smash Protection!

Something else happens when your Alarm.com Security System goes into an Entry Delay countdown. In addition to initiating a countdown timer, the system also transmits an "Entry Delay signal" to the Alarm.com servers. This happens the very instant that the system goes into its Entry Delay mode. Alarm.com then waits patiently for a few minutes, knowing that the system should logically follow-up with either a disarm signal from the user verifying their authorization, OR an alarm signal from the Entry Delay countdown and/or the communication delay expiring and authorization not being verified. If Alarm.com does not receive any follow-up signal from the system, then it concludes that the system must have been destroyed, and it triggers a Crash & Smash event. Alarm.com will then immediately notify the central station and/or the end-user directly, depending on their monitoring plan.

Virtually all Alarm.com Communicators manufactured in 2008 and later support Crash & Smash technology. If you don't have Alarm.com, but you instead have a Honeywell or Resideo Security System that uses AlarmNet with Total Connect 2.0, then don't worry! AlarmNet has a very similar feature called Advanced Protection Logic (APL) that operates in largely the same manner as Crash & Smash. One difference though is that AlarmNet cannot notify users directly regarding an APL event. Instead, APL can only be used to alert the central station. This means that APL is unavailable to any AlarmNet Total Connect 2.0 user with a self-monitoring plan. You must have central station monitoring service to use APL with Total Connect 2.0.

In conclusion, only Nintendo can put the Crash in Smash. However, they're super late to the party, as the Crash & Smash feature from Alarm.com has been keeping homes safe for years. While having Crash & Smash on your security system might not give you the same adrenaline rush as using Crash Bandicoot to beat-up fellow video game mascots, but let the record show - Alarm.com brought us Crash & Smash BEFORE it was cool!

Do you have any thoughts or questions about Crash & Smash from Alarm.com? Leave them in a comment down below. Or you can let us know what you think about the possibility of Crash Bandicoot appearing in Super Smash Bros. We're security system experts, not gaming experts, so we probably won't be able to help you out much with that. Still, we would love to hear what you have to say. Stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more security system content coming soon!

If you have Alarm.com Video Surveillance service, then you likely know that the lineup of compatible security cameras is quite deep. It can be a bit daunting to decide which camera is best for you. Today, we're going to present our list of our Top 5 Best Alarm.com Cameras for use at home.

Keep in mind that we're not presenting any "commercial" cameras on the list. Only residential cameras will be considered. You can usually tell the difference based on the name. The Alarm.com Commercial Cameras will have a "VC" somewhere in the title, whereas the Alarm.com Residential Cameras only have a "V" in the title. We also considered Alarm.com Doorbell Cameras for this list, and those can be identified by having "VDB" for "Video Door Bell", in the name. Other than that, there's really not much else to think about. These are just the residential cameras that we think are most useful. We also want to mention that every camera on this list is compatible with Alarm.com Video Analytics, to at least some degree. If you aren't familiar with Alarm.com Video Analytics, we recommend checking out this FAQ to learn more. With that out of the way, let's get started!

5. Alarm.com ADC-V515 Budget Indoor Camera

The ADC-V515 is often seen as the "budget version" for another camera higher on this list. But despite being a low-cost option, the ADC-V515 still packs some impressive features. It offers 1080p recording capabilities, IR night vision of up to 15 feet, a 110° viewing angle, a nice 3.19mm F2.2 lens, and WIFI connectivity (2.4 GHz networks only). If that weren't enough, the ADC-V515 even offers High Dynamic Range (HDR) to make recordings appear deeper and more luminous. The camera might feel a bit more "flimsy" compared with the other models on this list, but still, it has the strong quality to keep your home safe for a very long time. This is a great starter camera for those who want to get into video surveillance, without breaking the bank.

Best For: Anyone needing a great indoor-only camera on a budget.

4. Alarm.com ADC-V622-WELL Wellness Camera

While it's specifically designed for monitoring an elderly or mobility challenged loved one and helping them live independently, the ADC-V622-WELL, also called the Alarm.com Wellcam, actually boasts some excellent security capabilities as well. This is a camera tower that can be easily mounted to a wall or conveniently placed on a table or desk. In addition to its 1080p recording quality, 1.62mm F2.3 lens, and IR night vision of up to 15 feet, the Wellcam is perhaps best known for its "press to call" feature and its two-way audio capability. This is also the only camera on this list that supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which is usually reserved for commercial cameras. However, you might feel a bit silly buying this camera for strictly security purposes, as the packaging really emphasizes the "wellness" aspect.

Best For: Anyone needing to monitor a family member to help them live independently.

3. Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 Doorbell Camera

When it comes to doorbell cameras, Alarm.com has no shortage of options. But few would argue that the ADC-VDB770 isn't the single best doorbell camera offering from Alarm.com. In fact, many would say that it's the single best video doorbell on the market, period. This incredible device offers resolution of up to 1440x1920 Full HD, a Field of View of 150° Vertical and 115° Horizontal, IR night vision of up to 15 feet, and two-way voice for communicating with whomever is at your door. If that weren't enough, the doorbell camera even offers HDR recording, a feature normally reserved for traditional HD cameras. It is worth mentioning that unlike the other cameras on this list that support the full range of Alarm.com Video Analytics, the ADC-VDB770 only supports limited range of Video Analytics, in which only one (1) Ground Zone rule can be configured. But for a video doorbell, that's usually all you will need. Best of all, while this camera still counts towards your total ADC camera limit, you can actually use a single video doorbell device like the ADC-VDB770, on your Alarm.com account, even if you don't have a traditional video monitoring plan. This makes the device fantastic for monitoring your home's primary entrance, without needing to upgrade to a higher-cost monitoring plan.

Best For: Those wanting a top-of-the-line doorbell camera to integrate with Alarm.com.

2. Alarm.com ADC-V523 Premium Indoor Camera

When we said earlier that the ADC-V515 was the "budget" version of another camera on this list, the ADC-V523 is that camera. This is considered the standard "go-to" camera for use with Alarm.com. Any residential user who is just looking for a great, all-around camera for general use should absolutely consider the ADC-V523. It is basically everything that the ADC-V515 offers, but better. The lens is boosted to 3.0mm F2.0, the viewing angle has been increased to 117°, and you can connect with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WIFI networks. Even the build quality is improved, as the ADC-V523 has a heavier feel to it, and you can quickly identify that this is the premium offering from Alarm.com. Also returning to the ADC-V523 is the 1080p Full HD recording quality and HDR recording for deeper-looking footage. The only weakness with regard to this camera is that it cannot be used outside. It's for indoor use only.

Best For: Anyone needing the very best residential Alarm.com Camera for strictly indoor use.

1. Alarm.com ADC-V723 Premium Outdoor Camera

The ADC-V723 eliminates the most glaring drawback of the ADC-V523, as our top Alarm.com Camera pick can be used both indoors and outdoors. For the most part, the ADC-V723 offers the same specifications as the ADC-V523, but there are a few improvements. Returning to the ADC-V723 from the ADC-V523 is the 3.0mm F2.0 Lens, the 117° Viewing Angle, Full HD recording with HDR for more luminous footage, and the full suite of Alarm.com Video Analytics. But the ADC-V723 offers a few unique upgrades in its own right. This camera introduces ingress protection (IP66) for keeping out the harsh outside elements. It also offers further IR night vision of up to 40 feet, so that individuals standing even further away can still be properly identified in nighttime recordings. It's safe to say that the ADC-V723 is basically the same as the ADC-V523, only better. But the "upgrades" really only come in handy if you need an outdoor camera. If you intend on keeping the ADC-V723 tucked inside, then you may as well just get the ADC-V523. When used indoors though, the two cameras have to be considered equal. In this case, we have to give the ADC-V723 the edge for its ability to function as an outdoor camera.

Best For: Anyone needing the very best outdoor camera for use with Alarm.com.

Do you agree with our list? Do you have any of these cameras at your house? Maybe some of these cameras are on your wish list? Let us know in a comment down below. Remember that you need an alarm monitoring plan with video surveillance, such as an Alarm Grid Platinum Plan or Video-Only Plan, to get started with most of these cameras. The only exception is the ADC-VDB770, as you can add a single compatible video doorbell device to an existing Alarm.com account, without a true video surveillance plan. If you need help getting started with any of these cameras, please email our team at suppor@alarmgrid.com. We're here to check incoming emails from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. Also don't forget to comment down below, and stay tuned to the Alarm Grid Blog for more content coming real soon!

We are glad to announce that we have some new content coming soon to Alarm Grid. We are making unboxing videos for some of our most popular system kits. The videos will hopefully clear up any confusion as to what exactly is included in a kit, while also providing a closer look at our systems.

One of the most common questions we receive from customers is what exactly comes in a given security system kit from Alarm Grid. We try to make it as clear as possible by listing the components in the product description and by having a "kit includes" section a bit further down the page. But our new unboxing videos will hopefully eliminate any confusion once and for all. You will be able to see the entire kit unboxed, and each product will be carefully and thoroughly explained. You will know exactly what you are getting with each kit, and understand why each included product is important.

This project is being led almost entirely by our video producer and editor, James. If you are a keen reader of the Alarm Grid blog, then you may recall him in our spicy chicken wing eating challenge. In all seriousness, this has been a huge undertaking for him. James usually stays behind the camera, and he has never really immersed himself in the exciting world of alarm system knowledge before this. It has been just as big of an undertaking for him to learn the systems as it has been for him to actually put the videos together! We gotta say, we're extremely proud of the work he has put out, and we're excited that we will be able to share more unboxing videos of his real soon.

So far, only one unboxing video has been produced. Specifically, it's for the 3-1 Non-Encrypted Lyric Kit with AT&T LTE. The plan right now is for James to complete unboxing videos for all of the Honeywell Lyric System Kits first, before moving on to other systems later. Keep in mind that James is handling this project pretty much by himself, and there is a ton of work that goes into these. So don't expect these videos to just suddenly appear overnight. It's going to be a somewhat slow and lengthy process to really make it happen. But if you keep an eye on our Lyric Kits, you will undoubtedly be seeing some new product unboxing videos appearing on our website very soon.

For now, check out the debut video James put out, and let us know what you think in a comment below. Do you have anything in particular that you would like to see in future product unboxing videos? And also, what system do you think James should cover after he finishes up with the Lyric Kits? If there's anything you would like to see, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate. And as always, stay tuned to our blog for more news and updates coming very soon!

You may have noticed recently that some new products from Resideo (formerly Honeywell) are being offered in both Resideo and Honeywell Home variants. Today, we want to clear up any confusion and explain that these are the same products, only with different labeling across the front.

To be clear, there have been three (3) instances of this varied labeling thus far, and it's likely that Resideo will continue this practice for additional products in the future. So far, the products that have been offered in both "Resideo" and "Honeywell Home" variants have included the following:

• Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS & Resideo PROA7PLUSC - Exactly the same!
• Honeywell Home PROA7 & Resideo PROA7C - Exactly the same!
• Honeywell Home TUXEDOW & Resideo TUXEDOWC - Exactly the same!

If you have a keen eye, then you'll likely notice that the "Honeywell Home" variants have the base SKU, while the "Resideo" variants have the base SKU, plus the letter C at the end. The C stands for "Commercial", as Resideo is marketing the "Resideo" variants for commercial use, while the "Honeywell Home" variant is being marketed for residential use. This situation occurred because certain alarm dealers who install in predominantly commercial locations couldn't (or in some cases, refused to) sell a product with the word "Home" on the front. In turn, Resideo made the call to accommodate these dealers.

In each of the three (3) aforementioned cases, Resideo has basically released the same product twice, with one variant being sold under the "Honeywell Home" banner for residential use, and the other being sold under the "Resideo" banner for commercial use. The only difference between variants is that one will say "Honeywell Home" across the front, and the other will say "Resideo" across the front. That's the only difference! All other aspects, such as product features, functions, compatibility, and overall use and performance is completely identical. We promise you, there is no gimmick or surprise here. Whether you get a Honeywell Home variant or a Resideo variant, it really won't matter. They're the same!

In fact, the "Residential" vs. "Commercial" wording is nothing more than a cosmetic difference. If you are buying the product for use in a home, but you like the name "Resideo" more than "Honeywell Home", then feel free to get the Resideo variant. It may be marketed for commercial use, but you can absolutely use it in a residential location. Again, the only difference is the wording. Conversely, you will have no trouble using a "Honeywell Home" variant in a commercial business or industrial location. If you prefer the "Honeywell Home" wording, then get that variant for your office or business. Just because it's marketed for residential use does not mean that you cannot use it in a commercial location!

If you're like many users, then you are likely going to wonder why Resideo would even bother doing this. Again, it's really just marketing and their response to a certain subset of commercial dealers. Resideo has the right to use Honeywell Home branding, and they will continue doing so for name recognition. But they found out that commercial and industrial locations don't want to use products labeled "Honeywell Home" because they look out of place. As a result, Resideo is offering the "Resideo"-labeled alternative to accommodate these users. You might think it's a bit silly - and maybe it is. But it's nothing more than a marketing decision. So go ahead and laugh, then decide whether you want your brand-new security system or touchscreen keypad to read "Honeywell Home" or "Resideo". Either way, you're getting a great product.

And that's really the best news here. All three (3) of these products are awesome. Resideo has really been putting out some sleek and fresh-looking security equipment lately. The three (3) products in question are known for their 7-inch touchscreen controllers and their modern designs that look tremendous in pretty much any home or office. And even if the reasoning is a bit frivolous, the end result is that you have more options to choose from. If you don't want "Home" displayed on your new office security system, then you can opt for the "Resideo" option. Alternatively, if you think "Resideo" sounds goofy and makes you cringe, then you can go with "Honeywell Home" instead. There's no judgment here!

What do you think of this "Resideo" vs. "Honeywell Home" situation? Do you think it's a bit silly, or do you think it's a smart decision by Resideo? Also, which name do you like more? And lastly, have you gotten to try out the new Tuxedo Keypad or the ProSeries 7-Inch Panels yet? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. We used the Honeywell Home variants for our personal office testing, but we're sure the Resideo ones are just as nice. Maybe we'll have both variants hanging around the Alarm Grid office someday. But for now, we hope that this cleared up any confusion or misunderstandings, and we'll be back with more news soon.

If you are like many Alarm.com users with iOS, then you have likely built some Siri Shortcuts for Alarm.com to make your life easier. But did you know that Siri Shortcuts can be used for secure commands, including system disarming, unlocking Z-Wave locks, and performing complete scenes?

For anyone not familiar with Alarm.com Siri Shortcuts, these are customized spoken voice commands that you can use to control your Alarm.com Security System and its connected automation devices. You can set up a Siri Shortcut to perform a single security or automation command, or you can create a complete smart scene to control your system and multiple devices all at once. The important rule to keep in mind though is that each Siri Shortcut Voice Command must be created individually. You can even create a custom verbal command so that you trigger the shortcut exactly how you prefer.

Some users aren't sure if they can use Alarm.com Siri Shortcuts for secure commands, such as disarming the system or unlocking a door lock. The answer is that you can, but Alarm.com put some special provisions in-place to prevent this feature from being abused for malicious purposes. Namely, any secure command can only be set up if the user has some type of locking mechanism set up on their iOS device. This can be something like a passcode, touch ID, or some other approved security measures. The user will need to unlock their iOS device before they can use it. This is to prevent anyone from just opening up Siri voice commands and gaining easy access to the property by disarming the system and/or unlocking a door.

You may recall that we discussed the new capability of Siri Shortcuts support for door locks back in February when Alarm.com announced Version 4.18 of the Alarm.com Mobile App for iOS. If you missed that post, you can review it here. To put this feature into practice, make sure you are on version 4.18 or higher of the iOS app. Prior to that release, controlling a door lock was only possible by creating a rule or a smart scene that included the lock. Before version 4.18, other secure commands, including system disarming and scene control, had been possible provided the user had a security protection mechanism set up on their iOS device. Alarm.com may not have a HomeKit integration, but Siri Shortcut functionality is about as close as you can get. Go check out Alarm.com Siri Shortcuts if you haven't already!

What do you think about Alarm.com Siri Shortcuts? Have you gotten good use out of them in controlling your Alarm.com Security System? Is there any other feature or capability you would like to see integrated with the feature? What about a possible Apple HomeKit integration for Alarm.com? Would you use such a feature if it were available? Share your thoughts in a comment below, and let us know what you think. And remember to stay tuned to our blog for more security news coming soon. Just last week, a new Alarm.com Security System became available in the 2GIG Edge. That system is a great option if you want to try out Alarm.com Siri Shortcuts for yourself. Keep checking our blog for more news, and we look forward to a great week ahead!

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!

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!