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Hi DIYers! Are you ready for the Alarm Grid weekly video recap? By pure coincidence, Joe was the star of every video this week. He certainly did a great job of making videos to help users learn the basics of their alarm systems. Let's check out the newest videos from our YouTube channel.

Registering a Lyric Alarm System SIM Card

Joe talks about how to register a SIM Card for a Honeywell Lyric Controller. All of the cellular communicators for the Lyric Controller provide the same function. The main difference between these communicators is that they connect to different cellular networks. The fastest communicator at this current time is the AT&T LTE Communicator. The cellular module is inserted into a port located on the side of the system. The communicator can be installed after choosing the "Install Cellular Module" option within the advanced settings menu.

Factory Defaulting a 2GIG GC3

Joe discusses how to reset a 2GIG GC3 to factory default settings. To do this, you will need to know the system's Installer Code to do this. Both a soft default and a hard default can be performed. The soft default will allow you to choose which settings to reset, while a hard default will reset everything. A soft default is performed by choosing the "Restore Defaults" option. A hard default is performed by pressing and holding the two main buttons after the system is powered on.

Honeywell VISTA 20P vs Honeywell VISTA 21iP

Joe talks about the differences between the Honeywell VISTA 20P and the VISTA 21iP. These systems feature mostly the same functions and features, but they differ in terms of their communication paths. The VISTA 21iP board provides support for a hardwired ethernet connection and cellular connectivity. The system will use ethernet as its primary connection and cellular service as a backup. Without any upgrades, the VISTA 20P will be forced to rely on a phone line connection. To utilize a cellular or IP connection on the VISTA 20P, some upgrades will be needed.

Adding User Code to a VISTA Security System

Joe goes over the process for adding a new user code to a VISTA Alarm System. The number of user codes supported by the system will depend on the type of VISTA System that is being used. The main way to add a new user code is by using an external keypad, like the Honeywell 6160RF. The command for adding a new user code is [Master Code] + [8] + [2-Digit User Number] + [Desired 4-Digit Code]. Only the Master Code can be used to add a new user code.

Add a Duress Code to a VISTA Alarm System

Joe discusses how to program a duress code for a VISTA Security System. Entering in a duress code will send a panic signal to the central monitoring station. A duress code is programmed by assigning the duress attribute to any valid user code. Any system code except for the Installer Code and the Master Code can be set up as a duress code. The command for setting a user code as a duress code is [Master Code] + [8] + [2-Digit User Number] + [#] + [1] + [3].

Hi DIYers! Our technical support team has been producing new videos to help others learn how to use their security systems. We've already received great feedback on our videos, and we look forward to making more. Let's take a look at some of the videos that we've released in the past week.

Using Wired Contacts on a 2GIG GC3

Joe explains how to use hardwired contacts with the 2GIG GC3 System. There are a few different ways of doing this. The GC3 actually has built-in support for two different hardwired sensors. If a user needs to use additional wired contacts, they can do so using a compatible wired to wireless converter, such as a Honeywell 5800C2W or a 2GIG TAKE-345. It is also possible to connect the wired contact to a wireless transmitter that will send signals to the panel on the sensor's behalf.

Getting Monitoring for a Self-Installed 2GIG GC3

Joe talks about how it is possible to receive monitoring service for a 2GIG System that has been self-installed. These systems can connect with the Alarm.com interactive service platform by receiving cellular monitoring. This requires a compatible cellular communicator and a cellular alarm monitoring plan. The cellular module includes a serial number that is needed for activating the system. The system will need to be activated by the user's alarm monitoring company in order for the system to receive active monitoring service.

Using the Lyric Alarm System as a Secondary Z-Wave Controller

Joe discusses how the Honeywell Lyric Controller can be used to operate Z-Wave home automation devices. By using the Lyric as a secondary controller in conjunction with a primary Z-Wave controller, the Z-Wave network will be able to perform more advanced functions. When doing this, Z-Wave devices should be learned-in with the primary Z-Wave controller. The Lyric Controller will need to be enrolled with the primary Z-Wave controller in order for this to be possible. The Lyric will then automatically recognize any Z-Wave devices that were programmed with the primary controller.

2GIG GC3: Changing the Installer Code

Jorge talks about changing the Installer Code on a 2GIG GC3 System. This code is set to 1561 by default. We usually recommend keeping the Installer Code at its default so that the user does not become locked out of programming later. However, the code can be changed if desired. This is done by accessing Panel Programming within the Installer Toolbox. The user will need to know the current Installer Code in order to successfully change the code.

The Lyric Alarm System and VISTA Compatibility

Jorge discusses the compatibility between the Honeywell Lyric Controller and the Honeywell VISTA Systems. These are both independent alarm systems, and they do not interact with one another. However, as they are both Honeywell Systems, they use similar sensors, and the same interactive service. Both the Lyric and VISTA Systems can use Honeywell 5800 Series Wireless Sensors, though a VISTA Panel will need an added wireless receiver. They can also both access the Total Connect service. However, a VISTA System will need an added communicator.

WIFI Communication and the 2GIG GC3

Jorge talks about getting a 2GIG GC3 System connected to a WIFI network. The system will need to be running firmware version 3.1 or higher to connect to WIFI. The Network Settings menu can be accessed by providing the system's Installer Code. The password for the network will need to be provided in order to successfully connect. We recommend auto-assigning any IP configurations, though these settings can also be manually configured if needed. The system can only be connected with one WIFI network at a time.

How Do I Program a Honeywell 5877 to My Lyric Controller

Joe talks about how to use a Honeywell 5877 Relay with a Honeywell Lyric Controller. This module allows a garage door to be opened or closed using the Lyric Controller or a synced Total Connect account. The 5877 can be spliced in with a garage door button, or it can be connected to the garage door motor itself. The garage door can then be controlled through the automation section of the Lyric. If a user wants their garage door to operate as a security zone, they will need to add a Honeywell 5822T Tilt Sensor.

Demonstration of the Lyric and Total Connect

Jorge gives a brief overview of the Total Connect service and how it is used with the Honeywell Lyric Controller. Once the Lyric is synced with Total Connect, a user can access the service to control their system. The service allows users to arm and disarm their system, control Z-Wave home automation devices, check the status of sensors, view security cameras and more. After the Lyric has been synced, any rules and scenes for Z-Wave devices that are used the Lyric Controller will need to be added and edited through the Total Connect service.

Hey DIYers, have you been checking out the Alarm Grid YouTube Channel? If not, here's a quick recap of what you missed in the past week.

April 29th: How Do I Get Into Programming On My Vista 20P?

Bryce shows the basics of how to access programming on a Honeywell Vista 20P System. In most cases, this is done by entering in the command [4112] + [800], with "4112" being the system's default Installer Code. Bryce also explains the differences between fixed English and alphanumeric keypads, as well as the backdoor method for accessing programming. According to Bryce, an alphanumeric keypad is necessary for conducting deeper level panel programming. With a Fixed English keypad, the programming options are more limited.

April 30th: What is a CKT Error on My 6160 Keypad?

Dylan explains the meaning of a CKT error on a 6160 keypad used with a Honeywell VISTA System. The error means that the keypad is not communicating properly with the VISTa Panel. The reason for this could be poor wiring, improper addressing or defaulting of the keypad or panel. Dylan then shows the proper wiring for the device and the steps for addressing the keypad so that it works properly. The error should clear once the wiring and addressing is correct.

May 1st: Why is my 5800PIR-RES showing a Red flashing light?

Bryce demonstrates the walk test mode on Honeywell PIR Motion Detection Sensors. When the motion sensor is first powered on, it will automatically enter into its walk test mode. While in this mode, the device will show a red LED light whenever it detects motion. The sensor will then exit this mode on its own after 10 minutes. To re-enter walk test mode, simply remove the battery for the device and then re-insert the battery to power it back on.

May 2nd: What is the Best Security System for an Apartment?

Jorge talks about what type of security system is best for an apartment. He recommends using a wireless self-contained security system since they are easier to use and install. He also points out that a desk mount can be used so that they panel does not have to be mounted to the wall. Wireless sensors can be installed using double-sided foam tape to avoid drilling holes. Jorge specifically mentions the Honeywell Lyric Controller and the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 as being great options.

May 3rd: When Will the Lyric CDMA Be Phased Out?

Jorge discusses the plans for Verizon to eventually discontinue support for their CDMA network. This important information for anyone who uses cellular communication with their Honeywell Lyric Controller. The CDMA network is still being used with many alarm systems. Starting on June 1, 2018, new CDMA activations will no longer be allowed. Existing CDMA communicators will be grandfathered in to remain active until the CDMA network is shutdown. In order to remain active with the Verizon network, a user will need to upgrade to an LTE communicator.

Alarm Grid is committed to giving our customers the best experience anywhere on the web. That means, we want you to love coming to our site, but we also want to make sure that you love your experience off of our site as well. We are doing everything we can on-site (perhaps you've noticed the beautiful new product pictures we've been displaying, such as the beautiful L7000, shown below)

So for the artists among you, we have launched a contest to design our Facebook page! Jump in, participate! We will be selecting a winner within the week, and will likely have a revamped Facebook page soon thereafter.