Technology Posts

Resideo’s recent MyWebTech Technical Notification #114 warns of potential range issues with certain 5800MINI transmitters. These units may have a poorly placed FCC sticker inside the cover, hindering their ability to communicate with the receiver. Both 5800MINI and 5800MINIBR are affected.

There are a number of circumstances that could cause range issues for a transmitter. Large metal objects such as appliances, duct work, and even some mirrors can affect the transmission path of a sensor. Even if the obstacle is not within a direct line-of-sight between the sensor and the receiver, the signal can be bounced away from the receiver. This may happen intermittently or consistently.

It's important to note that this issue is specific to a limited number of sensors. To identify affected units, you'll need to check the packaging. Look for a date code of 2429 or 2431 (YYWW format, indicating the year and week of manufacture). The packaging will also have the designation "Made in Taiwan." If your sensor matches these criteria, it may be impacted by this issue.

If you suspect your sensor is affected, it's crucial that you leave the metallic FCC sticker in place. Removing or tampering with the sticker is illegal and could void the warranty. Instead, you should contact your security system provider for further assistance.

If you are an Alarm Grid customer, send an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We will reach out to troubleshoot with you further and will perform a warranty replacement if we determine that the product is the issue. It is important that we perform regular troubleshooting, particularly if you no longer have the product packaging to verify the date and location of manufacture.

Due to an anomaly with Qolsys IQ panels, this weekend's time change may cause panels to repeat the communicator test excessively. To prevent this, Alarm.com will move the test forward by three (3) hours. This will be a transparent change to customers but offers a unique learning opportunity.

Daylight Savings Time (DST) is one of those things that folks either love or hate. There are those who want to switch to DST permanently. Others think the whole process is a waste of time. Regardless of personal preference, the pervasive nature of DST reminders can serve as a helpful prompt for other important tasks.

For instance, fire departments often encourage people to test their smoke detectors during the time change. This is a convenient opportunity to ensure home safety. Interestingly, not all regions observe DST. Arizona, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not participate in the "Spring Forward/Fall Back" practice. We encourage residents of these locations and all others to test their smoke detectors this weekend!

The anomaly we mentioned above is fairly straightforward. Any Qolsys IQ Panel that is programmed to send a communication test between midnight and 2:00 am that falls on Saturday night/Sunday morning may send excessive reports when the automatic time change occurs this weekend. For this reason, Alarm.com will automatically move the communication test time for these customers forward by three (3) hours to prevent any issues.

That means if your system usually sends its communication test at 1:00 am, it will now send the report at 4:00 am this coming Sunday and each time the report is sent moving forward. This will be a transparent change for customers. When it comes to communication tests, you're only notified if they don't happen.

When we talk about a "communication test" we're talking about the equivalent of a "dialer test" on a panel that supports a phone line. Alarm systems supervise themselves in all sorts of ways. Individual wireless zones are supervised for check in and tamper, the panel itself has a cover tamper, and the cellular communicator has a supervision interval.

When we activate an account through Alarm.com, we set the communicator on the account for a supervision interval. If the Alarm.com server doesn't hear from the account for the specified supervision interval, a message is generated to the monitoring station and from them to us. We then reach out to the customer to see what's going on. Alarm Grid enables Daily cellular communicator supervision on all central station monitored accounts. Self-monitored accounts are inherently unsupervised.

The communication test that's programmed through the panel is a little different. This test is generated by the panel and helps to verify that the system itself is capable of sending a signal successfully, not just the communicator. By default, the communication test interval is set to weekly through panel programming. It can be set to daily, weekly, or monthly by going to Menu > Settings > Advanced Settings > Installation > Enter Installer Code (1111 by default) > Installer Settings > Communication Test and Communication Test Start Time.

This test, the one programmed through and sent by the panel, is the one that is affected by Daylight Savings Time. Chances are, you don't know whether or not your system is set to send this test. However, it's a good idea to configure it. It will help to verify that the panel is able to send signals through the communicator. As mentioned above, the default communicator test setting is Weekly.

If you don't program a time for the first test report, it will be randomized at the time the panel is either initially programmed at the factory, or when a Master Reset (factory default) occurs. Once the first test is sent, the panel will continue to send the test periodically, either daily, weekly, or monthly thereafter.

The takeaways from the time change are to remember to test your smoke detectors and any other life-safety devices you may have. You should test them at least twice a year, but Alarm Grid recommends monthly testing. And also, give some thought to checking your communication test settings in the Qolsys panel. This is a good automated test to ensure your system is working smoothly. Check out our FAQ on testing the IQ Panel 4.

Alarm Grid is excited to offer the new Alarm.com ADC-SVR210 Stream Video Recorder! This new recorder offers local video storage, with a 1TB or 2TB hard drive. It seamlessly integrates with most existing Alarm.com cameras and boasts wide compatibility with ONVIF Profile S and VAPIX cameras.

The ADC-SVR210 Stream Video Recorder measures 7.7" W x 7.9" D x 5.5" H (14.5cm x 20cm x 13.9cm):

Alarm.com Stream Video Recorders (SVR) offer customers the option of recording video 24/7. Without an SVR, Alarm.com limits the number of clip uploads available to each video customer per month. This allows Alarm.com to ramp up their cloud storage capabilities in line with the number of current and expected active video accounts. Without clip limits, this would be more difficult to do.

Some video customers may need access to more clips, or extended video playback. There are expansion packs available for customers who exceed their monthly clip limit due to unusual or unforeseen circumstances. But for others, the need for more clips may be the rule, not the exception.

For those customers the ADC-SVR210 offers a tidy solution. With the ADC-SVR210 video is stored locally on the recorder's hard drive. The ADC-SVR210 is available with either a 1TB or a 2TB hard drive. A monitor can be connected directly to the SVR and video can be viewed from it at any time.

Not all cameras are compatible with the ADC-SVR210, but most are. Below is a list of the recommended Alarm.com wired ethernet cameras. Many of these support Power Over Ethernet (POE) and are part of the Alarm.com commercial camera lineup:

• VC727P
• VC827P
• VC847PF
• VC728PF
• VC838PF
• VC725
• VC726
• VC736
• VC825
• VC826
• VC836
• VDB755P
• VC729P

In addition, the following Indoor and Indoor/Outdoor WIFI cameras can be used with the ADC-SVR210. If a camera has no link, it indicates that it has been discontinued:

• ADC-V515
• ADC-V523/ADC-V523X
• ADC-V723/723X
• ADC-V724/724X
• ADC-V521IR
• ADC-V522IR
• ADC-V721W
• ADC-V722W

Unlike previous Alarm.com stream video recorders, the ADC-SVR210 can integrate with third-party cameras that support ONVIF Profile S or VAPIX. ONVIF Profile S is a standardized protocol designed for IP-based video systems. VAPIX is an API (Application Programming Interface) for Axis Communications' cameras. The VAPIX API allows Axis cameras to integrate with a wide range of products on different platforms.

ONVIF stands for Open Network Video Interface Forum. This is a security standard that ensures devices from different manufacturers can work together. They use profiles to categorize products. Each profile has a fixed set of features and specifications that every compatible device must adhere to. A device can support more than one profile. You can see the specifications for Profile S here.

Per the ONVIF website, "ONVIF is a leading and well-recognized industry forum whose mission is to provide and promote standardized interfaces for effective interoperability of IP-based physical security products." The forum includes many equipment manufacturers. Some member companies you may recognize include Axis Communications, Honeywell, HIKVision, Canon, Bosch, Intel, Johnson Controls, and more.

A Profile S device (camera) sends video information over an IP-based network. A Profile S Client, like the ADC-SVR210, can configure, request, and control video streaming over an IP network provided by Profile S devices. It is the ADC-SVR210 software that allows it to comply with ONVIF Profile S. This improved compatibility offers greater flexibility when choosing security cameras for your system.

Specifications For The ADC-SVR210:

• Recording Channels: Up to 8 cameras
• Video Input: 8 channels, 70 Mbps total
• Local Display Capabilities: Live view, recorded playback, clip export
• Local Display Output: 1 x HDMI
• Local Clip Export: Available (1 x USB 3.0 and 2 x USB 2.0)
• Internal Storage: (1) 3.5" HDD, SATA 6 Gb/s, (2TB total)
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 7.7 x 7.9 x 5.5" (14.5 x 20 x 13.9 cm)
• Operating Temperature: 32℉ - 104℉ (0℃ - +40℃)
• Compliance: FCC Class A, IC, CE Class B, UL Listed, NDAA
• Included Accessories: AC power adapter, Ethernet cable, QR card with code that links to this digital installation guide
• Requirements: Power: Standard Electrical Outlet ; Network: Ethernet connection to broadband internet
• PoE Power Adapter: 12V DC
• Max Weight: 2.55 lbs (1.16 kg) with 3.5", 2TB HDD installed

In a prior post, we told you about a mandatory SkyBell firmware update for Total Connect 2.0 users. For most, a prompt from TC2 allowed them to update. They could skip the update, but eventually, it was forced. If you set your SkyBell up through the SkyBell app, your experience may differ.

The full details of why the update is happening and, for the most part, what to expect from the process is included in the prior post, so if you are a SkyBell and TC2 user, we highly recommend you read it. We've seen a few hiccups with the upgrade with some customers encountering a few difficulties. Nothing major, though.

If you happen to be a user who set your SkyBell up using the native SkyBell app, prior to associating your SkyBell with Total Connect 2.0 your update and migration process may be slightly different. You should be receiving an email from SkyBell with steps to follow to complete the process.

This email will be sent to the email address used when initially setting up the SkyBell. So, if you fall into this category, be on the lookout for an email from SkyBell Technologies. It should look something like this:

Dear [First Name] [Last Name],

We are reaching out to inform you about an important update that will improve the performance and reliability of your SkyBell [doorbell model]. Action is required to continue receiving doorbell notifications.

Your SkyBell doorbell has been moved to Total Connect app. This transition will ensure that your doorbell functions smoothly. To restore full functionality to your doorbell, please follow the steps below:

1. Open your Resideo Total Connect 2.0 (TC2) app. Your doorbell will be listed as offline.
2. Tap on your offline doorbell and log in with your SkyBell username and password* when prompted.
   • If you don't remember your password, you can reset it in the SkyBell HD app.
3. Your doorbell will come back online, and you will start receiving notifications again.
   • Please note, your doorbell camera settings will be reset to default. You can easily adjust them in the Resideo TC2 app.

Important: Your doorbell will only work in the Resideo TC2 app. Until you complete these steps in the Resideo TC2 app, you won't be able to receive doorbell notifications or event updates.

After completing these steps, you will no longer need the SkyBell HD app. We recommend deleting it from your phone.

Thank you for taking the time to upgrade your doorbell to the Resideo Total Connect 2.0 app. If you have any questions, please contact your Resideo security professional.

The exact wording of this message may differ slightly, but you get the gist from the example above. The important thing is that you receive the message and follow these steps to make sure your SkyBell doorbell is upgraded. This upgrade is basically about moving your SkyBell completely away from the SkyBell HD app. Once the upgrade is complete you will only be able to access your SkyBell doorbell through Total Connect 2.0.

This notice was provided by Resideo to let customers know that if they receive a message like the one above from SkyBell Technologies, it is a legitimate email and Total Connect 2.0 customers should follow the steps outlined to update their SkyBell video doorbell device. Failure to do so will eventually lead to the SkyBell being unusable with Total Connect 2.0.

We recently posted about the Alarm.com Today Widget being retired in app update 5.6.0 and iOS update 18. At that time, we advised you that new iOS widget options would be coming soon. Now those new widget options are right around the corner, so we want to discuss them in a bit more detail.

You may be wondering, "What is a widget?" Merriam Webster currently defines a widget as: 1: A gadget. 2: An unnamed article considered for purposes of hypothetical example. 3: A small software application that is designed to provide a specific piece of information (such as news, weather, or traffic updates) or a specific function (such as taking notes or controlling another application) on demand. For our purposes it is the third definition we'll be exploring further.

In the next few weeks three (3) separate widgets will be available for the Alarm.com app. They are the System Control Widget, the Saved Clips Widget, and the Safety Button Widget. Alarm Grid does not yet offer the Safety Button feature, so we'll concentrate on the first two options in this post.

System Control Widget

The System Control Widget is customizable and allows a user to perform single-touch commands of their smart home devices and alarm system without opening the Alarm.com app.

Requirements:

• An Alarm.com account with at least one supported device.
• The Alarm.com iOS App version 5.7.0+.
• Apple's iOS version 17+. On lower iOS versions, the Alarm.com widget won't display in the widget gallery.
• You must select Keep Me Logged In to use the widget feature.

When you begin setting up the widget, you can set the size to either small or medium. You can also choose whether you want the widget to be displayed on the Home Screen or on the Today View. When a small widget is selected you can configure up to four (4) actions. When medium is selected you can configure up to eight (8) actions.

Capabilities:

• Quickly arm stay, away, or disarm with a single tap.
• Configure one-touch control of lights, locks, gates, and other automation devices.
• Run pre-configured scenes to control routine automations with a single tap.
• See a device icon, name, and current status at a glance.
• See a timestamp of when the widget last updated. An update automatically occurs every 30 minutes or any time you open the customer app.
• If you have multiple systems linked to your login, all devices from all systems are listed during widget configuration. You can choose which devices you want included. System names are NOT included in the widget, so be sure to include system identifying information when naming scenes.
• The Saved Clips Widget and the System Control Widget can be used together on a single iOS device.

Saved Clips Widget

With the Saved Clips Widget, customers with Alarm.com video access can view saved clips without opening the Alarm.com customer app. This widget can be configured to show from four (4) to 12 thumbnails of saved video clips. The number of thumbnails will depend on the selected widget size. By tapping a thumbnail, saved clips can quickly be viewed.

Requirements:

• An Alarm.com Service Package with Video Analytics. Clips captured without video analytics cannot be viewed in this way at this time.
• Alarm.com iOS app version 5.7.0+
• An iPhone or iPad using version iOS 15+

This widget allows you to keep up with various events around your home or office. You can quickly check thumbnails of video clips and then view the actual clip with a single tap. Tapping a thumbnail will open the customer app, allowing you to view the full clip.

• Multiple Saved Clip Widgets can be added, allowing the customer to customize their experience. This is particularly helpful for users with multiple linked systems.
• The Saved Clips Widget and the System Control Widget can be used together on a single iOS device.
• Home screen widgets can be configured as small, medium, or large and the larger the widget, the more video thumbnails can be displayed.
• The widget can be configured to include one camera, all cameras, or a single camera group.
• Home screen widgets can be used as an alternative to video clip alerts. This may be particularly helpful in active homes or high-traffic businesses as the widget automatically updates through the day with analytics-triggered captured clips.

Enable Either Widget On The Home Screen or within the Today View:

1. When adding to the Home Screen press and hold an empty space within the Home Screen until all the app icons begin to jiggle.
2. When adding to the Today View, from the Home Screen, swipe toward the right. This will bring you to the Today View. Press and hold any empy area within the screen until the icons begin to jiggle.
3. At the top left, tap the Add (+) icon.
4. You can search for Alarm.com to find the Alarm.com Widget, or scroll down and tap on the Saved Clips Widget.
   
   
5. Select a size based on which widget you're configuring.
6. Tap Add Widget.
7. Tap and drag the widget to the desired location in the Home Screen or within the Today View.

When a hurricane strikes, widespread power outages, flooding, and wind damage overwhelm residents and emergency personnel. In such crises, property security becomes secondary to life-saving efforts. Any alarm system may fail during extended power outages, further complicating the situation.

As Florida prepares for Hurricane Milton, the second large hurricane forecast to hit the state within the past month, this is a good time to discuss the ways in which these storms affect your alarm system and the response to it.

The Alarm System

A hurricane can physically affect your alarm system in several ways. High winds caused by hurricanes can rattle windows and doors, potentially triggering alarms in older homes with loose fittings. If your alarm system is armed during a hurricane, these vibrations could lead to false alarms. If you have glass break detectors, they can be triggered by weather-related breaking glass.

Electrical power is crucial for alarm systems. If you're an Alarm Grid DIYer, you know that your system has a backup battery to keep it operating during AC power outages. For hardwired systems, you can choose the battery size based on a battery calculation sheet. The goal is typically at least 24 hours of standby power.

When we refer to "standby power," we mean the power consumed by your alarm system when it's not actively in an alarm state. During an alarm, your system requires significantly more power, which can deplete the battery faster. For hardwired systems, you can calculate this additional power consumption and install a larger battery, provided you comply with the manufacturer's specifications.

For all-in-one systems like the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 or Resideo PROA7PLUS, battery options are limited. The included battery is typically UL or ETL listed for at least 24 hours of standby power. This is often the only available option. To extend battery life during power outages, you might consider using a generator or exploring alternative battery solutions. However, these alternative solutions may void the manufacturer's warranty and may cause issues.

While cellular communication for alarms has become widespread, hurricanes can disrupt cellular service due to power outages, infrastructure damage, and other factors. If your alarm system relies on cellular connectivity and the service is interrupted, your system may be unable to report alarms or other conditions. You may also need to clear a communicator trouble condition when you return.

The Responding Authorities

Police, fire, and EMS agencies have specific protocols for responding to emergencies, including those caused by hurricanes. For example, according to Criticom Monitoring Services (CMS), one of our monitoring station partners, many agencies suspend responses to non-emergency dispatches when sustained winds reach 45 MPH.

During and after a hurricane, emergency services will be overwhelmed with requests. While many calls may be legitimate emergencies, others might be less urgent. Unfortunately, there may not be enough resources to respond to every call. As a result, reports of burglar alarms will not be treated as a priority and may not receive a response for some time after the hurricane has passed.

The Monitoring Station

The monitoring station will also be dealing with higher traffic. CMS has provided the following information:

• CMS has increased manpower at its Longwood, FL, and Manasquan, NJ monitoring centers. Please be aware that despite our best efforts, callers may still experience longer than normal wait times.
• Please understand first responders will no longer respond to dispatches from CMS once sustained winds reach 45 mph.
• CMS will continue to do everything possible to ensure the safety of our dealers, their subscribers, and our employees.

CMS is always prepared with true redundancy; It is equipped with three (3), UL listed, FM (Factory Mutual) approved monitoring centers located throughout the United States. Its monitoring centers are connected using the latest in communications technology, allowing it to load balance by redistributing operator resources during spikes in alarm activity.

If disaster strikes any one of the CMS monitoring centers, each of them is backed up by two (2) generators and uninterruptable power supplies Each center is prepared to route alarm signals to the other CMS central stations located across the country. Through the years, CMS has seen just about every type of emergency. They have the experience and facilities to keep them running 24/7 in the face of any storm or other disaster.

With their unique infrastructure, CMS is ready to handle nearly any conceivable situation. Their operators are second to none in the industry. If you call on them, they will be ready to assist you in any way they can. Please heed warnings from experts in your area and evacuate your family, your pets, and yourself if advised to do so.

Alarm Grid offers the latest wireless keypads, compatible with IQ4 and IQ Pro panels. The Qolsys IQ Keypad-PG is a simple capacitive touch keypad, while the Qolsys IQ Keypad Prox-PG adds a prox tag reader for easy use. Both keypads offer PowerG's impressive range for reliable communication.

Below is the IQ Keypad Prox-PG. The bullseye symbol in the lower right denotes the proximity reader:

As wonderful as a big, beautiful touchscreen interface is, sometimes you just need to arm or disarm the system and don't want to walk to the panel to do it. Maybe you're entering or exiting through a seldom-used basement door or planning to hang out in the garage when you arrive home. A secondary arming and disarming station can come in handy, for a wide variety of reasons.

Enter the two (2) new PowerG keypads available from Qolsys. The Qolsys IQ Keypad-PG is a basic wireless keypad that allows you to disarm by entering a valid code through the number pad. It has icons for single-touch Night, Away, and Stay arming when secure arming is disabled. When secure arming is enabled, arm using any valid user code.

If you can arm through the touchscreen without entering a code, then Secure Arming is disabled. You can change this setting by tapping the gray menu bar at the top of the screen, above the date and time, then tapping Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 respectively, by default) > Installation > Security & Arming > Secure Arming. This feature is disabled by default. That means, by default, you can arm the system without entering a valid code.

When we talk about the IQ4 panels, we're talking about the IQ Panel 4, the Qolsys flagship, top-of-the-line, feature-rich touchscreen panel. Also included is the IQ4 Hub, another touchscreen panel with a slightly trimmed-down feature set. And finally, the IQ4 NS rounds out this panel lineup. The IQ4 NS is a budget-friendly option with nearly identical features as the IQ4 Hub, minus the touchscreen interface. All these panels support the IQ Keypad-PG and the IQ Keypad Prox-PG and prox tag arming/disarming. Just be sure the panel has the latest firmware.

IQ Keypad-PG

The IQ Keypad-PG is a stylish capacitive-touch numerical keypad. It has PowerG wireless transmitting capability and offers superior range, military-grade, 128-bit AES encryption, and bi-directional communication with the panel. Four (4) AA batteries are used to power the unit. Only Energizer AA 1.5 Volt Alkaline batteries should be used. The expected battery life is three (3) years. Each alarm system can support up to five (5) keypads.

IQ Keypad Prox-PG

The IQ Keypad Prox-PG has the same features and specifications as the IQ Keypad-PG, with one exception. It supports prox tags. If you're unfamiliar with prox tags, they're small, hand-held devices that allow you to easily arm and disarm the system by presenting the tag to the keypad in the designated space. When you present your valid tag to the keypad while the system is armed, it will toggle the system to a disarmed state. If you present your tag to the keypad when the system is disarmed, it will attempt to arm the system.

Prox tags come in packs of four (4). The included clip allows them to connect easily to a key ring:

If Force Arm is enabled when you present your prox tag to arm the system, any faulted zones will automatically be bypassed and then the system will arm. If Force Arm is disabled the system will refuse to arm until all zones are restored and the prox tag is presented again. Also, when you present a prox tag to the keypad while the system is disarmed, it will first attempt to arm Stay, then if you present the tag again, it will arm Away.

You can verify the Force Arm setting by tapping the gray menu bar at the top of the screen, above the time and date. Then tap Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 respectively, by default) > Installation > Security & Arming > Force Arm. This feature is enabled by default. That means, if you attempt to arm and any zones are open or faulted, they will automatically be bypassed so the system can arm.

Specifications:

• Models: IQ Keypad-PG, IQ Keypad Prox-PG (4 Prox Tags Included)
• Interface: Capacitive touch keypad (0-9, *, #, Arm Stay, Arm Away, Arm Night options)
• Available Frequency: PowerG 912 - 919 MHz
• Status Indicator: Status LEDs (Trouble, Arming, Status)
• Sounder: One (1) for key presses, chirps, and alarms.
• Tamper: Yes, Wall and Enclosure Tamper.
• Power Source: 4 x AA – Use only Energizer AA 1.5V Alkaline Batteries.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 6.1” x 4.6” x .91” (155mm x 117mm x 23mm)
• Mounting Options: Back plate, wall mount only.
• UL/cUL/ULC Certification: UL/cUL Residential Fire and Burglary and UL/ULC Commercial Burglary Alarm Control Unit. Compliant with standards: UL985, UL1023, UL2610, ULC-S545, ULC-S304.
• FCC/IC Certification: FCC ID: 2AAJXQS-IQKP IC: 11205A-QSIQKP.
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C) With up to 93% relative humidity, indoor, dry, climate-controlled use only (*)

*UL has only verified operation in 32°F - 120.2°F (0°C - +49°C) and 93% Relative Humidity.

The First Alert brand, by Resideo, recently unveiled three new camera models, marking their first camera release in years. The VX Series includes an indoor camera, an outdoor camera, and a video doorbell. These cameras are designed to enhance end-user security and work with Total Connect 2.0.

There are a ton of cameras on the market, and it can be tough to decide which camera or system is right for you. So, we wanted to take a moment and highlight the features of these relatively new First Alert VX cameras. One of the biggest reasons to choose these cameras is that they are compatible with Total Connect 2.0. This is Resideo's remote access platform.

These days, if you can't control an electronic device from anywhere using a smartphone app, you're doing something wrong. From monitoring your pool's water temperature to receiving a notification from your refrigerator to pick up milk, the Internet of Things (IoT) has changed how we do nearly everything.

With that in mind, one of the features to scope out when looking for a security system, camera system, or combination of both is how you interact with that system remotely. For the VX Series cameras and most Resideo or Honeywell panels, remote control is achieved using Total Connect 2.0.

To quickly connect the dots, Resideo, formerly Honeywell, owns the First Alert Professional brand. They also own AlarmNet, which provides the network through which most Resideo, Honeywell, Honeywell Home, and First Alert Professional products communicate when using WIFI, ethernet, or cellular devices. Most communicators are sold under the AlarmNet brand. However, all of these brands, except for a few currently produced Honeywell products, live under one big Resideo umbrella.

Here's an example of what happens with an alarm on one of these panels.

For this example, we'll assume you have a Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS panel with a WIFI and cellular communicator. With this system, you have central station monitoring and Total Connect 2.0:

1. An alarm that requires a notification to the end-user, a report to a central station, or both occurs.
2. The PROA7PLUS transmits the alarm signal. It will use WIFI if available, and cellular if WIFI is down.
3. The signal travels through the network (WIFI) or the carrier (cellular) to a server at AlarmNet. The carrier may be AT&T or Verizon within the US. It could be Rogers or Telus in Canada.
4. Based on the MAC address of the communicator where the signal originated, the AlarmNet server matches the signal with an account and forwards the alarm information to the proper central station. With Total Connect 2.0, a notification will also be sent to the end-user, if enabled. Steps 1 - 4 occur within seconds.
5. The central station processes the signal according to its policies and any instructions provided by the end-user.

The VX Series cameras can be used with Total Connect 2.0 on a stand-alone video account, or, in conjunction with a security system. Here at Alarm Grid, we offer our Platinum Plans (Self or Full) which include security, remote control with automation, and video, or our stand-alone Video Monitoring plan which can be used without a security system.

Any plan that includes cellular communication also includes IP (WIFI or ethernet) at no additional cost. Each video plan allows up to eight (8) cameras. The smart camera package will allow up to 50 clips per day, per camera. Video for the VX camera lineup is stored on the TC2 server for 30 days.

First Alert Pro VX1 HD Video Doorbell

The First Alert Pro VX1 HD Video Doorbell (SKU: CAMW-WDB) boasts a 5MP camera, 2-way audio, dual-band WiFi, and intelligent event detection. Its advanced AI can accurately distinguish between people, packages, vehicles, and animals minimizing nuisance notifications and recordings.

Equipped with a built-in LED, color night vision, and a siren that can be manually activated, the VX1 doorbell offers enhanced security. Its wide dynamic range (WDR) technology uses both hardware and software to ensure vibrant color and high-quality video, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The VX1 HD comes with some nice accessories. It offers a trim ring in either gray or white. It can be mounted with either a straight or an angled mounting bracket A mechanical chime adapter is included, along with a doorbell release/reset tool, and mounting hardware. The VX1 is made of UV-resistant material to withstand harsh sunlight and other outdoor elements.

First Alert Pro VX1 HD Data Sheet
First Alert Pro VX1 HD Install Guide

First Alert Pro VX1 HD Specifications:

• Device Type: Video Doorbell Camera.
• Compatibility: Total Connect 2.0 Video Plan REQUIRED. Each VX1 counts as one camera when used with any video plan.
• Power Requirements: 16 VAC to 24VAC, 10VA minimum.
• Chime Compatibility: Mechanical and Digital Chimes with included Chime Adapter.
• Speaker: 93dBA @0.1m
• Microphone: 10ft (3m)
• Camera: 5MP
• Video Resolution: 2592 x 1944 Full HD
• Video Format: H.264
• Diagonal Field of View: 180°
• Available Fields of View: Tall, Wide, and Full
• Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Yes
• IR Night Vision: up to 23' (7.01m)
• Color Night Vision: Up to 10' (3m).
• Image Adjustments: Low or High Quality.
• Motion Detection: Yes, up to four (4) windows. Optional selections to detect people, vehicles, and/or animals.
• Two-Way Audio: Yes
• Clip Viewing: Via TC2 (app & website)
• Privacy feature: Yes, available via the TC2 app. Selected manually, or by the option to "Turn on camera privacy when security is disarmed."
• Emergency/Panic: Yes, while streaming only
• WIFI Specs: Dual-band, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz
• Bluetooth: BLE 5.0
• Ingress Protection: IP65 (dustproof and water resistant)
• UV Resistant: Yes
• Dimensions: 4.8" x 1.8" x 1.1" (120.7mm x 44.5mm x 28.5mm)
• Weight: 5 oz (144g)
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 122°F (-40ºC to +50ºC)
• Operating Relative Humidity: 20% to 85%, Non-condensing
• Included Accessories:
  • Gray Mounting Brackets (Both Straight and Angled)
  • Both White and Gray Trim Rings
  • Chime Adapter
  • Mounting Hardware
  • Mounting Brackets
  • Quick Install Guide

First Alert Pro VX3 HD Outdoor Camera

The First Alert Pro VX3 HD Outdoor Video Camera (SKU: CAMWE-WO) has intelligent event detection allowing it to identify people, animals, vehicles, and packages. It also features a microphone for sound detection, and a speaker for 2-way communication through the camera. New to the First Alert camera line, is an option to use Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE) connection. All this is included in an attractive HD camera.

The VX3 also has a built-in, manually-activated deterrent feature. While viewing a live feed from the First Alert Pro VX3, through TC2 or a PROSeries panel, the user can tap the siren icon to initiate a 93 dBa siren and an LED spotlight produced by the camera. This manual activation can aid in scaring off potential intruders.

With its IR night vision, the VX3 can be programmed for full-time color night vision or color on detection only. Color on detection allows infrared to handle night-time viewing until a recording is triggered. Then, the camera will automatically switch to color night mode. If color night vision is set to always on, the LED light ring will be lit constantly during the night.

The VX3 HD is a Total Connect 2.0 (TC2) camera. A TC2 smart video account is required to enroll and use it. As mentioned when describing the VX1 HD, this means a Platinum (Self or Full) or Video Monitoring plan for Alarm Grid customers. Each VX3 will count as one (1) camera in the video package. Each video plan allows up to eight (8) cameras. The smart camera package will allow up to 50 clips per day, per camera. Video is stored on the TC2 server for up to 30 days.

First Alert Pro VX3 HD Outdoor Camera Data Sheet
First Alert Pro VX3 HD Outdoor Camera Install Guide

First Alert Pro VX3 HD Outdoor Camera Specifications:

• Device Type: Outdoor HD Camera
• Compatibility: Total Connect 2.0 Video Plan REQUIRED. Each VX3 counts as one (1) camera when used with any video plan.
• Power Requirements: 12VDC @ 1A Power Adapter or 802.3af PoE Class 3 PSE.
• Transformer Wire Length: 10' Max (3.05m)
• POE length: 300' (100m) Max
• Speaker: 65dBA @3m, 1kHz
• (low, medium, or high adjustment via app)
• Microphone: 10' (3m)
• Camera: 2MP
• Video Resolution: 1080p Full HD w/ Wide Dynamic Range (WDR)
• Video Format: H.264
• Diagonal Field of View: 147°
• Ceiling Mount Option: Yes, Flip orientation 180°
• Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Yes
• IR Night Vision: up to 23' (7m)
• Color Night Vision: up to 10' (3m)
• Image Adjustments: Low or High Quality
• Motion Detection: Yes, Up to Four (4) windows. Optional AI selections to detect people, vehicles, packages, and/or animals.
• Two-Way Audio: Yes
• Clip Viewing: Via TC2 (App & Website)
• Privacy Feature: Yes, available via the TC2 app. Selected manually, or by the option to "Turn on camera privacy when security is disarmed."
• Emergency/Panic: Yes, Only While Streaming.
• Firmware Upgradeable: Yes, Auto-updates
• Ethernet Specs: WIFI or Hardwired (If both are used, Ethernet is primary)
• WIFI Specs: Dual-band, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz
• Bluetooth: BLE 5.0
• Ingress Protection: IP66 (dust-proof and water-resistant)
• UV Resistant: Yes
• Dimensions: 3" x 3" x 5" (76.2mm x 76.2mm x 127mm)
• Weight: 5oz (144g)
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 122°F (-40ºC to +50ºC)
• Operating Relative Humidity: 10% to 85%, Non-condensing
• Included Accessories:
  • Mounting hardware
  • Mounting Brackets
  • Quick Install Guide

First Alert Pro VX5 HD Indoor Camera

The First Alert Pro VX5 HD Indoor Camera (SKU: CAMW-WI) is an HD quality, indoor video camera. It allows users to monitor the interior of a home or small business using a combination of live and recorded video. Users can keep an eye on their kids, elderly family members, pets, or guests with razor-sharp 2K resolution and superb night vision.

The First Alert VX5 HD is equipped with advanced event detection capabilities. Using AI, it can determine whether a person, an animal, or a vehicle is within its field of view, allowing it to deliver precise and meaningful notifications. Each camera can have up to four (4) event detection areas configured.

This indoor camera captures 1080p video while allowing the user to ensure privacy with an automated privacy shield. Privacy can be controlled by either pressing a button on the side of the camera or through the Total Connect 2.0 App. If an admin user in TC2 sets the camera for privacy a standard user cannot change this setting. It can also be set to enable privacy when the alarm system is disarmed.

The camera integrates with the PROA7PLUS or PROA7PLUSC panel and the PROWLTOUCH and PROWLTOUCHC wireless touchscreens, offering on-screen video streaming. The VX5 also has a microphone and speaker and supports 2-way audio between a user in Total Connect 2.0 and the camera.

The emergency button option is also available for the VX5. If you see an intruder while live-streaming video, you can press an emergency icon within the TC2 app and the camera's LED will turn on and its siren will sound. At 70 dB @ 3.2' (1m) this siren won't harm an intruder, but it will get their attention.

First Alert Pro VX5 HD Indoor Camera Data Sheet
First Alert Pro VX5 HD Indoor Camera Install Guide

First Alert Pro VX5 HD Indoor Camera Specifications:

• Device Type: Indoor HD Camera
• Compatibility: Total Connect 2.0 Video Plan REQUIRED. Each VX5 counts as one (1) camera when used with any video plan.
• Power Requirements: 12VDC @ 1A. Power Adapter included with 9' (2.7m) wire. Cannot be extended.
• Transformer Wire Length: 9' Max (2.7m)
• Speaker: 70dB @ 3' (1m)
• Microphone Range: 20' (6m))
• Camera: 2MP
• Video Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels maximum
• Video Format: H.264
• Diagonal Field of View: 130°
• Horizontal Field of View: 111°
• Vertical Field of View: 59°
• Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Yes
• Night Vision Range: 15' (4.5m)
• Advanced Detection: Yes, Up to Four (4) windows. Optional AI selections to detect people, vehicles, or animals.
• Two-Way Audio: Yes
• Clip Viewing: Via TC2 (App & Website)
• Privacy Feature: Yes, available via the TC2 app and at the camera. Selected manually, or by the option to "Turn on camera privacy when security is disarmed."
• Emergency/Panic: Yes, Only While Live Streaming.
• Firmware Upgradeable: Yes, Auto-updates
• Network Specs: Dual-band 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WIFI, IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac
• Bluetooth: BLE 5.0
• Dimensions: 3.5" x 2.25" x 2.5" (89 x 57 x 64mm)
• Weight: 5.2 oz (148g)
• Operating Temperature: 32˚F - 104˚F (0˚C - 40˚C)
• Operating Relative Humidity: 10% to 85%, Non-condensing
• Included Accessories:
  • Power Adapter
  • Mounting Hardware
  • Quick Install Guide

Older IPCAM-WIC1, IPCAM-WIC2, IPCAM-WOC1, and IPCAM-WOC2 cameras need an update to keep working with Total Connect 2.0. If you have an affected camera and it hasn't been powered up with a network connection between June 30, 2024 and now, power it on and connect it for at least two (2) days.

You can read the full notice from Resideo here. This notice has been distributed to all Total Connect 2.0 alarm dealers. The gist is this, if you have one of the legacy IPCAM-WI or IPCAM-WO cameras listed, and your camera has been connected to a TC2 system and working for any consecutive two (2) day period between June 30, 2024 and now, you don't need to worry. The update should already be completed.

Any of the above mentioned cameras that don't receive this update will cease to be recognized by the Total Connect 2.0 server beginning on November 1, 2024. Any such camera will no longer receive updates from the server and will cease being supported by Resideo.

You can verify your camera's firmware version by logging into the Total Connect 2.0 app. Go to Cameras. Tap the More icon in the upper right (⋮) of the camera. Tap Settings, then scroll down to Camera Info. The firmware version will be displayed. For IPCAM-WIC1/IPCAM-WIC2 the firmware version should be 2.07. For IPCAM-WOC1/IPCAM-WOC2, the firmware version should be 2.09. Cameras showing these versions have already been updated.

There are three (3) scenarios where one of these legacy cameras may still need to be updated. The first situation won't usually affect DIY users, but the second and third are strong possibilities. We'll discuss each scenario below.

Scenario 1: A Brand New Camera That Has Never Been Installed

This scenario will more than likely only be experienced by an alarm dealer who keeps physical inventory on their premises. Any camera that is new in the box and has never been powered on, connected to internet, and registered with a TC2 account will require some intervention before October 31, 2024. Without this intervention, the camera will cease to be compatible with Total Connect 2.0.

If you're a homeowner with a new security camera that hasn't been activated, you should do so at least two (2) days before October 31, 2024. Failure to activate your camera and give it enough time to receive the update may prevent it from working with any Total Connect 2.0 security system.

Scenario 2: A Previously Used Camera That is Offline and Deleted from TC2

If you have a legacy Total Connect 2.0 camera that hasn't been powered on, connected to the internet, and registered to a TC2 account for at least two (2) consecutive ays between June 30, 2024 and now, you need to take action.

To complete the update, power on your camera, connect it to the internet, and register it to your TC2 account. The update will happen automatically once the camera registers. Keep your camera powered on and online for at least two (2) days to ensure the update finishes successfully.

Scenario 3: Previously Registered Camera That Is Offline

If your legacy camera hasn't been online for at least two (2) consecutive days since June 30, 2024, you need to power it on, connect it to the internet, and verify the connection by checking its live view in Total Connect 2.0. Keep your camera connected for at least two days. This will allow the update to complete.

If, after November 1, 2024 you decide to purchase a used IPCAM-WIC1/IPCAM-WIC2 or IPCAM-WOC1/IPCAM-WOC2 make sure that the camera has received this update prior to the purchase. Any of these legacy cameras that have not been updated will be useless as anything other than a unique paper weight.

In the coming weeks Total Connect 2.0 users on app version 6.44.1+ with a SkyBell will be prompted to update the SkyBell Video Doorbell's firmware. This update is part of a backend migration process. There will be an option to skip the upgrade, but eventually an update will be automatic.

This affects any TC2 users with any of the following SkyBell Video Doorbells. All of these units have been discontinued:

• DBCAM-TRIM
• DBCAM-TRIMBR
• DBCAM-TRIM2
• DBCAM-TRIMBR2
• DBCAM
• DBCAM-BR

It's possible this migration has some correlation to our report from December of last year. In the prior blog, we discussed how SkyBell users were receiving recommendations to upgrade their SkyBell to "Gen5". But after this upgrade, any access the user had to their SkyBell through third-party apps, like Total Connect 2.0, would be removed. The move to Gen5, once completed, can't be undone.

Phased Process for Upgrade and Migration of SkyBell Video Doorbells with Access Through Total Connect 2.0

1. Phase I: In the coming weeks Total Connect 2.0 users will be prompted, presumably via a push notification since a particular app version (6.44.1+) is required, asking them to perform a firmware update of the video doorbell. Any user who originally set their video doorbell up through the SkyBell HD app will need the login credentials they used for that app to complete this process. The user will be prompted through a few easy steps to complete the update and migration.
2. Phase II: At some point, users who ignore the initial prompt will receive a popup dialog box when logging into Total Connect 2.0 asking them to update. If the user chooses the option "UPGRADE LATER" they can skip the upgrade temporarily. But the next time they log into TC2 the SkyBell will be upgraded and migrated without prompting. If the user accepts this invitation to upgrade, they will immediately be guided through the upgrade and migration steps. Again, any user who originally used the SkyBell HD app to configure their video doorbell will need the credentials for that app to complete this process.
3. Phase III: Any user who ignores the first two phases will eventually have their SkyBell Video Doorbell updated and migrated automatically. Please note, only Skybell doorbells that are powered up and online can be updated and migrated. Presumably, and I'm attempting to confirm this, any SkyBell video Doorbell that is not online or powered on in time for the upgrade and migration process may lose the ability to access the device through Total Connect 2.0.

For the most part, users won't notice any difference in the way their device works or appears in TC2 after this process is complete. However, this migration does mean that the SkyBell doorbell, once upgraded, will no longer be accessible through SkyBell HD or any new SkyBell apps.

In addition to no longer being accessible through any SkyBell apps, all settings in the SkyBell Video Doorbell will be set back to their factory defaults during the update and migration. Affected settings include:

• LED Color
• Motion Detection
• Motion Sensitivity
• Image Quality
• Speaker Volume
• Indoor Chime
• Outdoor Chime
• Digital Chime
• Outdoor Chime Volume

These settings can be readjusted using the TC2 app once the upgrade and migration have been completed. Another post-migration change is that SMS notifications will no longer be available for SkyBell Video Doorbell events after the migration. Push notifications and email notifications will still be available.

Changes for Users of PROSeries Panels:

Users of the Honeywell Home PROA7PLUS and Resideo PROA7PLUSC who have the panel configured to allow SkyBell viewing at the panel will need to be sure their panel is updated to firmware 03.2305.91+ in order to retain this functionality. If you need a firmware update, contact your alarm dealer. If you're an Alarm Grid customer in need of a firmware update, send us an email at support@alarmgrid.com.

To verify the version of your panel's firmware tap the Menu Icon (≡) at the bottom of the screen, then tap Tools > enter either Installer or Master Code (4112 or 1234 by default, respectively) > tap System Information > tap General Information. If your version shows lower than 03.2305.91, request a firmware update from your alarm dealer.

After the update and migration the Honeywell Home PROWLTOUCH and Resideo PROWLTOUCHC keypads will no longer support viewing of SkyBell video on their touchscreen, regardless of firmware version.