Smart Home Posts

We have learned that Version 5.8.5 of the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App for iOS has a bug that affects WIFI thermostats. The update leaves users unable to control their WIFI thermostats with the mobile app. However, iOS users can still control their WIFI thermostats through the TC2 website.

Many users have found that upon updating to the latest version of Total Connect 2.0, they have been left unable to operate their WIFI thermostats through the app. This includes any Honeywell Lyric Round Thermostats and any WIFI thermostat that pairs with TC2 through a Total Connect Comfort, Honeywell Home or Redlink integration.

Please note that the bug only affects the iOS version of the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App. Android users are not affected. Additionally, Z-Wave Thermostats are also unaffected. If you are currently running iOS Mobile App Version 5.8.5, then you can still use the TC2 website to control your WIFI thermostat. You should be able to access the website using the standard web browser on your iPhone or iPad.

We expect that Resideo will release an update to fix this bug in the near future. But it may take some time before this happens. Until then, Alarm Grid monitored customers should reach out to support@alarmgrid.com with any questions. Alarm Grid will provide an update when we learn that the bug has been fixed.

Hi DIYers! We're back with another video recap today, this time covering March 4th thru 7th. We have seven new videos this time, so it really was a busy week. Our team loves making these videos and helping users learn how to use their security systems. Let's check out the new videos!

Adding a Qolsys Image Sensor to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Joe shows users how to pair a Qolsys Image Sensor to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The Qolsys Image Sensor is basically a motion sensor with a built-in camera. When it detects motion, the camera will take a picture and send it to Alarm.com. The end user can receive a notification from Alarm.com via text or email whenever an image comes through. They can then check the image to see if there is suspicious activity. The image sensor has a detection range of 30 feet.

Programming the 5800RP to an Alarm Panel

Joe demonstrates how to pair the Honeywell 5800RP Wireless Repeater with a Honeywell Alarm Panel. The 5800RP takes the signal from a Honeywell 5800 Series device and sends it out a second time. This effectively doubles its range. The module is technically a plug and play device, and you don't need to program it to a panel for it to repeat signals. But enrolling it is necessary if you want to receive alerts for RF supervision, low-battery and AC power loss.

Silencing the Exit Delay on a Honeywell Lyric System

Jorge the "Blue-Haired Bandit" explains how you can silence the Exit Delay on a Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. Whenever a user sets their Lyric to Arm Away, there will be continuous beeping during the Exit Delay countdown. A user can silence this countdown by selecting the Silent Exit button on the code entry screen. This option will also be available if a user selects Arm Custom. The Exit Delay period will be doubled whenever the countdown is silenced.

Using 2GIG Sensors With a Lyric System

Jorge explains how it is possible to use 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors with a Honeywell Lyric Security Panel. The Lyric System must be running firmware update MR3 or higher to support these sensors. The 2GIG Sensors operate on the same 345 MHz frequency as the Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors, only on a different channel. The Lyric can also support the Honeywell SiX Series Sensors, which utilize 128-bit AES encryption for added security. The SiX Sensors were designed exclusively for the Lyric.

Adding a Z-Wave Device to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Super-duper Alarm Grid Team Member Jarrett bounces into action by showing users how to pair a Z-Wave Smart Home device with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. Once a Z-Wave device has been paired with an IQ Panel 2, a user will be able to control it directly from the panel and remotely from Alarm.com. Before trying to pair a Z-Wave device you should always clear it from the network first. It may have been paired with a different network for factory testing purposes.

Pairing the Qolsys IQ Remote With a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge goes through the process of pairing a Qolsys IQ Remote Keypad with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The IQ Remote provides a secondary on-site access point for an IQ Panel 2 System. It is great for users with larger properties who may want to control their system from multiple locations. The IQ Remote allows for all basic functions, including arming, disarming, bypassing sensors and controlling smart home devices. However, programming must still be completed from the main system.

Enrolling a Schlage Z-Wave Lock to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Jorge walks users through the steps for pairing a Schlage Z-Wave Lock with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. The IQ Panel 2 includes a built-in Z-Wave controller for supporting Z-Wave devices. This includes most Z-Wave locks. Once the lock is paired, you can lock and unlock the door from both the panel and from Alarm.com. By using Alarm.com, the user can push user codes from the IQ Panel 2 to the Schlage Z-Wave Lock. This way, they can disarm their system and unlock their door by simply entering a valid panel user code into the lock.

Hi DIYers! We're here with the latest video recap from Alarm Grid. Our team managed to put up 9 new videos during the past two weeks, and we are eager to share them with you. Take a look at these new videos, as Alarm Grid techs teach you how to get the most of your security system!

Programming the 5800Combo to a Vista Panel

Joe covers the process of enrolling a Honeywell 5800COMBO with a Honeywell VISTA Alarm System. In order for the sensor to work with the system, a 345 MHz wireless receiver must be added.The sensor will require five zones for full functionality. These zones are for smoke/heat detection, CO detection, low-temperature detection, maintenance, and end of product life. Each zone must be programmed individually. If you don't want to use a particular function, you can skip programming that zone.

Using the 2-Way Voice Feature with an Alarm.com Camera on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2

Joe demonstrates the audio streaming feature on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 that is compatible with certain Alarm.com Cameras. The feature is available for Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Systems that are running firmware version 2.2.1 or higher. By using this feature, the user can have a live conversation with whoever is at their camera right from the IQ Panel 2. The option of "Audio for Non-Doorbell Cameras" must be enabled by the user's alarm monitoring provider. The panel and the Camera should be connected on the same WIFI network.

How Do I Setup Multi-System Account Access in Alarm.com?

Joe shows users the process of linking multiple Alarm.com accounts together. The benefit to do this is that the user will be able to control all their Alarm.com locations conveniently from a single login. This is great for users who operate security systems across multiple locations. The pairing process must be completed using the Alarm.com website. The user will need to provide the username and password for any account they want to pair when syncing the different Alarm.com accounts.

Upgrading the 2GIG GC3 to an LTE Communicator

Jorge completes the process of upgrading a 2GIG GC3 to use an LTE cellular communicator. An example of an LTE communicator for the 2GIG GC3 is the 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3. When swapping out the old communicator, the user should make sure to power down their system first. Failing to do this could result in system damage. By upgrading to an LTE communicator, an end user will enjoy faster speeds and greater reliability. They will also extend the life of their system, as LTE is expected to remain in service well into the distant future.

Programming a New SiX Series Device Into an Older Lyric System

Jorge explains why some users might experience trouble when trying to program newer Honeywell SiX Series Sensors with an older Honeywell Lyric Alarm System. The problem occurs because the newest SiX Series Sensors have an updated MAC prefix that is not compatible with Lyric Systems that are not running at least firmware version MR7 or higher. Any customer who is monitored by Alarm Grid can have the latest firmware pushed down to their Lyric System. This is a free over-the-air firmware update.

Learning the DSC PG9929 Key FOB to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge teaches users how to enroll a DSC PG9929 Key Fob to a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems have PowerG daughtercards that allow them to support the 915 MHz PowerG Sensors. However, these sensors enroll in a unique manner. The system should be in its auto-enrollment mode. The user must then press and hold the enrollment button, which is the star (*) button for the PG9929. The button should be held until an LED light appears for a second time. They can then release the button to enroll.

Learning the DSC PG9938 Panic Switch to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus

Jorge demonstrates the process of enrolling a DSC PG9938 Panic Switch to the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. The PG9938 is a personal panic switch that can be enrolled with the IQ2+ like any other PowerG Sensor. Pressing this button will trigger an immediate system panic. The device is perfect for elderly or disabled individuals who may need to call for hep in case of an accident or fall. It can also be used to trigger a panic alarm from virtually anywhere on the property. The button must be pressed and held, which helps to avoid false alarms.

Honeywell Thermostats and Total Connect 2.0 Compatibility

Joe tells users which thermostats will work with Total Connect 2.0. The simple answer is that Z-Wave thermostats from any manufacturer that can enroll with your Honeywell Alarm System, along with most Honeywell WIFI Thermostats can be operated through Total Connect 2.0. However, Z-Wave thermostats will offer greater functionality through TC2 than WIFI thermostats. This is because only Z-Wave thermostats can be used with TC2 Smart Scenes. But certain WIFI thermostats can be used with other platforms like Apple HomeKit.

Arming the Lyric in Stay Mode

Jarrett teaches users how to put the Honeywell Lyric Controller into Arm Stay mode. This is the arming mode to use if someone is going to remain inside the building. In Arm Stay mode, all interior zones are automatically bypassed. This way, the end user can move throughout the building without having to worry about setting off an alarm. However, entry/exit zones, perimeter zones and 24-hours zones will still respond as if the system was set to Arm Away.

Hi DIYers! Today, we're going to discuss why dual-path alarm monitoring is so great. Simply put, it is the most reliable alarm monitoring available. This fast and reliable communication path offers all the benefits of both IP monitoring and cellular monitoring in one convenient package!

Dual-path monitoring means that the security system uses two communication paths for alarm monitoring service. The vast majority of the time these two communication paths are IP (WIFI or ethernet) and cellular. While it is technically possible to use POTS (plain old telephone service) connectivity as one of the communication paths, this is becoming increasingly rare due to to the poor performance of phone lines. For our discussion, we will assume that dual-path is referring to IP and cellular connectivity being used together on the same system.

Depending on the system, dual-path monitoring is performed in different ways. Panels that use Alarm.com will send out all alerts and notifications across both IP and cellular paths at once. These outgoing signals will be sent to Alarm.com, where they will be processed and forwarded to the monitoring station and/or to the customer via text, email or push notification. The first message received by Alarm.com is processed, and the other message is discarded. In this way, Alarm.com assures that each individual signal uses the fastest path available. An important note here is that Alarm.com requires a special cellular radio to communicate with their service. This is why Alarm Grid customers who want Alarm.com must sign-up for a Gold Plan or higher.

Alarm panels that use AlarmNet and Total Connect 2.0 behave a little differently. These panels supervise the IP connection. As long as the IP connection is available, all signals are sent via this path. If the panel senses that the IP connection is down, it will then revert to the cellular path. AlarmNet receives these signals and sends them to the central monitoring station and/or Total Connect 2.0. From there, TC2 forwards the appropriate notifications to the end user's phone or email address based on the user's notification settings.

While it's technically true that an alarm system only needs one active and reliable communication path for monitoring, using a dual-path setup with two active communication paths offers some key benefits. Whether your system uses Alarm.com or AlarmNet/TC2, dual-path connectivity will let you be sure that your alarm signals are always received and processed successfully.

A dual-path connection can be a saving grace if one signal path fails. While having an IP or cellular signal fail to reach its intended destination is quite rare, it certainly happens every once in awhile. But with dual-path connectivity, it's okay if one signal doesn't make it through. As long as the other signal still reaches its intended destination, the end user's monitoring service will continue to work as intended. Signaling on either path will accomplish the same goal. Whether both paths are utilized at the same time or only the cellular path is used due to the IP path being down, either will provide the same information. Whichever signal reaches the destination will be processed.

More often than not, it's the IP signal that fails to reach its intended destination. Most people will still experience short and temporary internet outages from time to time. Additionally, a power outage can knock out a router and cause the internet to go down. If this were to happen during an alarm event, and your security panel only used an IP communication path, you would certainly be in a very troubling situation. For that reason, you will definitely want that cellular backup to keep your home safe! In fact, this is why we generally view modern cellular service as superior to IP connectivity.

Cellular communication is extremely reliable and consistent, making it perfect for alarm systems. Cellular towers almost never go out of service, and coverage maps are continuously increasing in scope. This allows cellular to reign supreme as the single-best communication path. You might be asking yourself - why not just use cellular only? That is because IP connectivity is still technically faster in most cases. Plus, in the highly unlikely event that cellular service is ever down, you can actually use your IP service to back it up. While it's incredibly rare for a cell tower to be out of service, it has happened before! Also, our cellular monitoring plans already include internet anyway.

So what do you need to achieve a fast and reliable dual-path communication setup? You just need a compatible system and a Gold Level Plan or higher from Alarm Grid. Your system will need an IP communicator and a cellular communicator both installed. Currently, the only system we sell that is both WIFI and cellular ready right out of the box is the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. This also includes the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems. Most other alarm systems can also be configured to use a dual-path setup. However, you may need to purchase an IP communicator or a cellular communicator separately. We also advise checking out our kits, which often include both communicators.

If you're looking to get started with monitoring service, we invite you to check out our alarm monitoring page for more information. Remember, you will need a Gold Plan or higher for a dual-path setup. The Gold Plan is listed as "Cellular Monitoring", but it includes internet connectivity as well. If you have any questions, you can always contact us at support@alarmgrid.com. For users who prefer to speak on the phone, you can call (888) 818-7728 to talk with one of our security planners. We operate phone hours from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your security goals!

Hi DIYers! As you probably know by now, Amazon Alexa is a great tool to pair with any alarm system using Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. We thought that it would be nice give a quick refresher on how integrating Amazon Alexa with your home security system can make your life easier.

If you're like many people, you already have an Amazon Alexa device installed in your house. These devices offer great convenience and entertainment, and they are extremely simple to get started with. You can get updates on the news, weather and so much more. Some users even just keep Alexa around to ask random questions or to kill some time playing interactive games and solving brain teasers. Alexa really is great for anyone looking for an easy way to try out smart home functionality first-hand.

You don't necessarily need an intricate and fancy Amazon Alexa network to start using voice-control to operate your home alarm system. Even a basic Alexa Device like an Echo Dot will allow you to get started. You can set up your Alexa Device like normal and then integrate your alarm system later if you feel like it. There's no requirement to do it right away. But once you get started, you'll probably wonder how you ever lived with out the integration.

The first thing you need is a security system with access to either TC2 or ADC. This will require active monitoring service with an alarm monitoring company. Alarm Grid offers top-quality monitoring service and a wide variety of monitoring plans that include access to either of these platforms. We recommend checking out our monitoring page for more information about our plans. After you sign-up and activate your system, we will send you the resources needed to create your TC2 or ADC account.

Amazon Alexa integrates with both platforms using respective Skills. Successfully integrating your Alexa Device with your TC2 or ADC account is incredibly simple. First, open up the Alexa App on your Android or iOS device. Then open up the Skills & Games section. Do a search for either "Total Connect 2.0" or "Alarm.com" depending upon the interactive platform you use. You should be able to quickly find the appropriate Skill.

From there, choose "Enable Skill", and follow the necessary steps to complete the integration. The pairing process will involve providing your Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com account information. The Alexa App will walk you through the entire process and get you started in no time. Once the integration is complete, you'll have a completely new use for your Alexa Device!

What's really exciting is how you can control your system using your Alexa Device. Both Skills will allow you to arm your system, check the current system status and even run smart home automation scenes using quick and easy voice commands. You might say "Alexa, Ask Total Connect to run the Movie scene", or "Alexa Ask Alarm.com to set the thermostat to 70 degrees". There really are so many possibilities!

At this time, the Alarm.com Skill is a little bit more robust than the Total Connect 2.0 Skill. Both Skills currently allow for arming, checking current system status and quickly executing smart scenes. However, only Alarm.com allows users to disarm using voice commands and to control smart home devices on an individual basis, not necessarily through programmed scenes. We suspect that Total Connect 2.0 might also allow individual device control through Alexa at some point, but for now it is not possible.

If you're an Alarm Grid customer with questions about Amazon Alexa, you can always reach out to us to learn more! The best way to contact us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. You can also call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Did you know that one of the best perks of owning a home security system is receiving a large discount in your homeowner's insurance? In many cases, an alarm system will pay for itself and save you money in the long-run! This goes beyond most security aspects and considerations.

We hear of customers all the time who live in extremely safe areas, and the likelihood of them ever needing to use their security system is quite low. It's fair to wonder why these customers even bother to get security systems in the first place. Well the answer is that these individuals are likely saving substantial money in their homeowner's insurance.

Most insurance companies will offer their customers a premium discount of 5% to 10% for simply owning an active alarm system. Some companies even offer discounts as high as 20% in certain areas. The actual rate of the discount is dependent upon many different factors, and it's usually best to check with your insurance company to find out exactly how much you can save.

With Alarm Grid central station monitoring plans costing as little as $15 per month, sometimes it's a no-brainer to get monitoring service. Just think about it. You will be adding a new layer of security to your home, and you will have protective measures put in place in case an emergency ever does occur. Better safe than sorry!

At the same time, you will actually be saving money just for having this equipment installed and activated. There really is no reason for you to not have an alarm system if you plan on maintaining an active homeowner's insurance policy!

The types of discounts offered from insurance companies typically varies by location. The only general rule is that the customer must have central station monitoring with automatic dispatch, as opposed to self-monitoring. We have heard of customers receiving discounts for the following types of monitoring:

• Intrusion
• Fire
• Freeze
• Flood
• Carbon Monoxide

Receiving a Certificate of Alarm (CoA) that you can pass on to your insurance provider to receive a discount is very easy. Just activate a system with Alarm Grid. We will run tests to make sure your system is successfully sending signals to a central station. From there, you can download the certificate and send it online to your insurance provider. More information can be found here.

If you would like to learn more about Alarm Grid monitoring service, we invite you to check our alarm monitoring page. This page is also a great spot to sign-up for new service. If you would like to talk with us first, you can always email support@alarmgrid.com or call us at (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to working with you and helping you save money on your homeowner's insurance!

Hi DIYers! Did you know that SkyBell Video Doorbells can be viewed from Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com? Many users prefer using one of these apps instead of the SkyBell App so that they can have all their security functions in one convenient location. This is great for Alarm Grid customers!

One of the biggest perks of having a video doorbell is being able to know immediately whenever there is activity in front of your house. The SkyBell will send you push notifications whenever its built-in motion sensor is activated or whenever someone rings the door bell. You will receive the alert from anywhere, even if you are away. Although you can still choose to receive these alerts through the SkyBell App, you can also choose to have them sent through TC2 or ADC. Keeping these alerts in TC2 or ADC is perfect for keeping all your security events nice and organized.

Once the user receives a push alert on their phone, they can press a button to immediately connect with their SkyBell Doorbell and see exactly who is at their door. Each SkyBell device also comes equipped with a microphone and speaker so that the user can have a live conversation with the present individual. This way, you can tell your friend that you'll unlock the door for them. Or you could ask a postal work to leave your package by the door. There are so many possible applications with SkyBell.

Additionally, a user can access their Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com account to pull up their video doorbell at any time and see if there is any activity occurring. This is excellent for getting a live look-in at the front of one's house. It doesn't matter if you are at home or across the country. With remote access, your home is at your fingertips from anywhere. The devices support video resolution of up to 1080p HD, so you know that the video will be crisp and clear every single time.

At this time, Alarm Grid offers four SkyBell models. Specifically, there are two models for Total Connect 2.0, along with another two for Alarm.com. Both TC2 and ADC have a round model and a trim model. The round and trim models perform the same functions, but the trim models are slightly more compact.

Our current lineup is as follows:

Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM - Round for TC2

Honeywell SkyBell DBCAM-TRIM - Trim for TC2

SkyBell ADC-VDB101 - Round for ADC

SkyBell ADC-VDB105 - Trim for ADC

You don't necessarily need an alarm monitoring plan with video surveillance to use one of these video doorbells. Alarm Grid can add the feature at no additional cost for any existing customer who has access to Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. For that reason, the SkyBell Doorbell Cameras are a great cost-saving option for any user considering traditional security cameras and a monitoring plan with video surveillance. Simply let us know that you want to add a video doorbell to your monitoring account, and we will take care of the rest.

Please note that the TC2 versions can be used with TC2 or the native SkyBell App. But for the ADC models, it is different. The ADC models should not be used with the native SkyBell App in any capacity. For the round ADC model, if you pair it with the native SkyBell App and update the camera, then it will forever lose its ability to interface with Alarm.com! Meanwhile, the rectangular slimline ADC cannot pair with the native SkyBell App in the first place. It only has the ability to be used with Alarm.com.

If you want to learn more about our monitoring plans, you can always check out our monitoring page or reach out to us. The best way to contact us is by email at support@alarmgrid.com. You can also call us during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you plan and design the perfect security system for your needs!

Hi DIYers! We hear from customers all the time wondering how they can improve upon their existing security setup. Even if you already have a good alarm system, there are still things you can do to make it even better. Here are 5 ways for you to improve upon your home security system:

1. Take advantage of Z-Wave. Most alarm systems today have some way of supporting home automation. Z-Wave is one of the most popular smart home protocols around, and it has been thoroughly embraced by many alarm manufacturers. To get started, find out whether or not your system has a built-in Z-Wave controller. The Honeywell Lyric Controller. 2GIG GC3. 2GIG GC2 and Qolsys IQ Panel 2 all come with one installed. Meanwhile, the Honeywell LYNX Touch and Honeywell VISTA Panels can have a module added separately. From there, you can add Z-Wave devices like lights, locks and thermostats to expand upon your setup. All Z-Wave devices can be controlled remotely using an interactive service platform like Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0. They can also be set up to activate with certain system events or on a schedule. For example, you can have your lights turn on and have your smart thermostat activate automatically as soon as you return home and disarm your system!

2. Install security cameras. If you want to truly know what is happening in your home at any time, there is simply no alternative to security cameras. If you already use Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0, then getting a robust and reliable security camera setup is easier than you would think. You just need to upgrade to a Platinum-level monitoring plan and start including the cameras with your network. Alarm Grid offers both Alarm.com Cameras and Total Connect Cameras for you to use in your home. Many of these cameras can be simply rested on a desk or table so that no tools are needed for installation. If you do choose to mount your camera, all the hardware comes included, and the process is super easy. It's even possible to view these security cameras remotely by checking Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0 from your mobile device. And if your camera captures any clips, you'll be sure to know about it thanks to text, email and push alerts!

3. Add a second keypad. A second alarm keypad can be a great for your to more easily operate your security system from a second area of your house or property. This is a very common practice for homes with multiple entrances, since a user will often want to quickly disarm from wherever they enter. Other users might put a keypad in their master bedroom so that they can conveniently set their system to Arm Stay mode before going to sleep. A security system in the bedroom is also a great way to quickly and discreetly activate a silent panic alarm if you hear an intrusion downstairs. Some keypads like the 2GIG SP1 and the Qolsys IQ Remote can perform automation functions as well. This is great if you want to quickly control or check the status of your devices without having to walk to your main panel. Larger properties might even include third or fourth keypads as well!

4. Upgrade your communication path. The communicator is often seen as the unsung hero of an alarm system. After all, a system needs some way of reporting out in the event of an alarm. A faster communication path means a quicker response from the central monitoring station. This can be absolutely crucial in an emergency. You might also notice that your smart home devices respond a little bit faster as well. In other cases, it isn't about increasing speed, but rather improving reliability. Adding a cellular communicator will allow your system to send outbound signals even when there is a power outage. It is also a known fact that cellular service is usually a lot more consistent than an IP connection, which can sometimes go down for seemingly no reason. Users in rural areas might also consider using a cellular antenna or an amplifier to further improve upon their cellular signal strength so that signal reach their destination reliably every single time. Whether you're adding a new communicator or replacing an older CDMA communicator with an LTE model, a communicator upgrade can be arguably the most important investment you make for your system!

5. Enroll a key fob. Do you find yourself racing to disarm your system as soon as you return home? Do you want a quick way to arm your system without having to pull up Total Connect or Alarm.com? If so, then a key fob might be the perfect solution for you. These compact devices can be attached to a key ring and stored in a pocket or purse for easy access. Many users attach their security key fobs to their car keys so that all their keys are in one convenient spots. Just a press off a button can disarm your system or set it to either Arm Stay or Arm Away mode. You can even program a key fob to trigger an immediate panic, and some systems will let you use key fob button presses to activate smart scenes. And if that weren't enough, many key fobs will let you program more than four inputs by using dual-button presses. You can even give each regular system user their own personal key fob so that you know who used the system last!

If you need help finding ways to improve your security system, please reach out to us! We love helping our customers get the best security systems possible. You can reach us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to working with you and showing you all the great options available!

Hi DIYers! Have you ever thought about using a security system to monitor your boat or camper? It's a little bit out of the ordinary, but it's a great way to ensure that your property is protected. It's almost no different from using a standard security system, you just need to get creative.

If you're ever away from your boat or camper, having alarm monitoring can provide you with peace of mind in knowing that your property is safe. Although people usually think about security systems for homes and businesses, there's no reason why an intruder couldn't break into a boat, yacht, RV or camper to steal property and cause damage. And with the technology available today, it is certainly possible to achieve a great setup. We recently heard about one boat owner who keeps his yacht protected using a 2GIG GC3 Security System. Why not do the same for your boat or camper?

There are just a few things to keep in mind if you decide a alarm system for your boat or camper is right for you. First is the equipment. The alarm panel you use will likely be no different than one used in a conventional setting. You will definitely want to use a wireless system since internal wiring will be difficult or impossible. This is fine since wireless systems are easy to use, and they offer tremendous performance. Most wireless systems can be installed without a professional, and they are rugged enough to withstand continuous travel.

For sensors, you really won't have to add too many. A good door contact sensor can immediately let the system know if someone enters your vessel. If you are afraid that the sensor might be exposed to water, then an outdoor contact might be a good idea. A great sensor for this purpose is the Honeywell 5816OD. Some users may want to add a motion sensor as well, but they should make sure it won't cause false alarms from its mounting location. You might also want to add a smoke detector and a CO detector to monitor for environmental issues as well. The Honeywell 5800COMBO can detect for both fires and carbon monoxide outbreaks.

We strongly recommend that any security system used for a boat or camper to use a cellular connection. Even if your boat or camper is equipped with WIFI, cellular connectivity can't be beat in terms of reliability. Plus, the WIFI service might be inactive or go out when the boat or camper is not in use. Cellular communication will keep your system monitored no matter where you take your vessel, provided that there is adequate cell signal in the area. So if you're out camping, and someone else opens your camper or RV, then you will know about it. This is also perfect for when you leave your boat docked during the off-season.

Most boats and campers with a security system will use a self-monitoring plan. This type of monitoring means that the user will receive a text alert whenever their security system is activated. The user will then need to alert the proper authorities to the situation. While central station monitoring is technically possible for a boat or camper, it can be very tricky if the boat or camper isn't always left in the same location. You would also need to provide a valid address for the vessel so that emergency services can reach it. For those reasons, self-monitoring is usually the way to go here. You can learn more about Alarm Grid's monitoring plans by checking our monitoring page.

One major perk of having an alarm system for your boat or camper is that you can use it for Z-Wave smart home automation. Every boat and camper has lights, and you can use smart home functionality to control them remotely or have them activate automatically with predetermined events. You can also get a smart thermostat for your yacht or RV and integrate it into the network as well. Everything will be controlled right from your phone using Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. With Z-Wave functionality, your boat or camper will be ready to party as soon as your disarm your system!

If you have a boat or camper that you'd like to get protected, we would love to help you out! Our security system experts are happy to help you design a new security system for your boat, camper, RV or yacht. We know exactly what you need to achieve a robust and reliable setup. If you would like to get started, please send an email to support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

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

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

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

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

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

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