Technology Posts

Hi DIYers! Today, we want to discuss some of our favorite smart locks from the likes of Kwikset, Yale and August. There are many great reasons to add a smart lock to your home, and we are sure that you will love the convenience they offer. They are great for Alarm Grid monitored customers.

Smart locks represent a great addition to nearly any home or business. These devices typically enroll with a central hub, such as a Z-Wave controller or into your Apple HomeKit network. You will then be able to control the lock through an app on the Android or iOS smartphone. This is great if you ever want to let someone inside while you are away and then make sure the door is locked after they leave.

Z-Wave locks are particularly useful because you can access them through the Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com service that you use with your security system. These services will also provide you with text and/or email alerts whenever your lock is used. And iOS users always appreciate HomeKit compatibility. They find it highly convenient to be able to control their smart locks through Siri voice commands.

Alarm Grid has been putting out some FAQs to help you get started with various Z-Wave locks. We encourage you to check out some of the FAQs listed below:

• How Do I Include My Yale Z-Wave Lock?
• How Do I Exclude My Yale Z-Wave Lock?
• How Do I Factory Default My Yale Z-Wave Lock?
• How Do I Include My August Smart Lock Pro?
• How Do I Exclude My August Smart Lock Pro?
• How Do I Factory Default My August Smart Lock Pro?
• How Do I Include My Kwikset Z-Wave Lock?
• How Do I Exclude My Kwikset Z-Wave Lock?
• How Do I Factory Default My Kwikset Z-Wave Lock?

Of course, you can buy some excellent Z-Wave locks from Yale, August and Kwikset on our site. Let's take a look at some of our favorites from each of the three companies:

Yale

We actually got a first-hand look at many of the Yale Locks at ISC West 2019. Our team was highly impressed with these locks, and we think any of them would make for a great addition to your home. The Yale Assure Locks were particularly exciting for their added reliability, touchscreen control and Z-Wave Plus functionality. These include the Yale YRD226, Yale YRD246 and Yale YRD256 models. The YRD256 receives special recognition for having both a HomeKit Version and a Z-Wave Plus Version available from Alarm Grid.

Alarm Grid has been particularly impressed with the ease-of-use and overall reliability offered from the Yale Locks. They are available in a multitude of designs and styles so that you can find the lock that fits your home. Whether you choose a HomeKit model or a Z-Wave Plus model, we are sure that you will be extremely pleased with the performance and reliability when controlled remotely.

August

August and Yale are actually both manufactured by the same company, Assa Abloy. The name of the game here is the August Smart Lock Pro. This is one of the best and most versatile locks in the industry, and we cannot recommend it enough. The biggest selling point of the August Smart Lock Pro is that it can utilize Z-Wave Plus technology and connectivity with Apple HomeKit at the same time. Usually, a lock is restricted between one or the other. But that is not the case here.

The round design helps the August Smart Lock Pro stand out from other smart locks. It is sleek and smooth, and an LED light helps the user with setup. The entire process is completed through the August Home App to make setup and installation as easy as possible. Users looking for something different with some great advanced features can't go wrong here.

If you want to use Apple HomeKit with the August Smart Lock Pro, then the August Connect WIFI Bridge must be obtained as well. Alarm Grid actually sells the August Smart Lock Pro and the August Connect Bridge in one convenient package. They can also be purchased separately. The Smart Lock Pro can also communicate with your phone wirelessly through a Bluetooth connection. This is great for automatic unlocking when you arrive home. And users will certainly appreciate the integrations with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, AirBnB and HomeAway.

Kwikset

Not to be outdone, Kwikset offers their own smart locks that we have shown tremendous success in our personal testing. These are simple, yet effective locks that each feature their own timeless design. They use Z-Wave Plus technology for easy pairing with your wireless home security system. You can then control the lock from the panel or through a convenient app like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com. You can even receive notifications from TC2 or ADC whenever the lock is used.

The two Kwikset Locks that stand out the most for us are the Kwikset SmartCode 888 (shown above) and the Kwikset Obsidian. The Kwikset SmartCode 888 is an affordable option for users who want all the great features and functions of a reliable smart lock. It offers a touch-button keypad, with backlit keys for easy operation at nighttime. Meanwhile, the Kwikset Obsidian offers a sleek and futuristic touchscreen keypad for entering codes. The device uses advanced SecureScreen technology to prevent intruders from figuring out codes based on fingerprints. It also offers 128-bit AES encryption for added security.

All of the locks mentioned above are available for purchase from Alarm Grid now. If you need help deciding on a lock, please reach out to us by sending an email to support@alarmgrid.com. We will check the email at our earliest convenience and respond as quickly as possible. We look forward to helping you find the perfect Z-Wave or HomeKit lock for your ever-growing and evolving smart home!

Hi DIYers! Today, we'd like to cover some of our newest products from 2GIG. These are all fairly unique 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors that can be used with 2GIG GC2, 2GIG GC3 and Honeywell Lyric Alarm Systems. We are sure that many users will take full advantage of these versatile new products!

We actually very briefly touched on these new sensors during our 2GIG ISC West 2019 Post, but we never had the opportunity to discuss them in-depth. These sensors will also work with the upcoming 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Systems that should be arriving later this summer. Remember, these upcoming panels will support a lineup of encrypted sensors from 2GIG, as well as the current 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors and Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors.

As we said before, these are all fairly unique sensors. Some of these options have never truly been offered before. It's a good reason to get on-board with 2GIG and one of their wireless systems. And remember that you can always add a 2GIG RPTR1-345 Wireless Repeater if you need to increase the signal range for any of these wireless devices. Let's take a few moments to discuss each of these new sensors in full detail:

• 2GIG DW30-345 Outdoor Wireless Door Sensor: This a wireless outdoor contact sensor, much like the existing Honeywell 5816OD. The weather-resistant sensor can have an extended gap of two (2) inches between its magnet. However, it should ideally be less than an inch if possible for best results. It receives power using two (2) AA batteries, which can easily be swapped out when low. The 2GIG DW30-345 is great for outside doors, fences and gates that may be exposed to rain, wind, snow and excessive dust. It can be mounted on a flat or curved surface to meet the needs of the user.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG STVGRL1-345 Stove & Grill Guard: This is a unique sensor that alerts an alarm system when a stove or grill has a burner that is left on. The sensor will remain in a fault condition whenever the burner control is left 20 degrees or more from the usual position. A user can set the associated wireless zone to display a trouble condition whenever the sensor left faulted. This way, they will know to turn the stove or grill off if they accidentally leave it on. It is also great for parents who are worried that their children may be playing with the burner. The device is small and discreet, and it is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG F1-345 Safety Pendant With Fall Detection: This is a medical alert sensor that can detect the abrupt and sudden movement that occurs when a person falls down. Just like a conventional medical alert sensor, the user can press and hold a button if they experience a medical emergency or crisis. But the built-in fall detection is great for situations in which the user might be rendered unconscious and unable to press the button themselves. The device comes with a lanyard so that it can be easily worn, and it it is water-resistant with an IPx7 rating. The end user will have no problem using the F1-345 in the bath or shower if necessary.
  
  
  
  
• 2GIG GNGRD1-345 Gun Trigger Lock: This a helpful safety device that prevents a user from shooting a gun or firearm unless a 3-digit code is entered first. The sensor will also send an alert to the security system in the event that the weapon is moved or tampered with. This sensor is perfect for families of gun-owners who want to make sure that their children don't get into their weapons or firearms. It is strongly recommended for any gun-owner who wants to ensure that only they can access their weapon. The device is small, discreet and easily to apply. It is powered using a single CR2032 coin cell battery.
  
  
  

All of these sensors are available on the Alarm Grid website now! If you would like to learn more about any of these sensors, we recommend sending an email to support@alarmgrid.com. One of our security system experts will see your email and respond back as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you design the perfect alarm system for your needs!

Hi DIYers! We had our video team working crazy hard covering ISC West 2019. But now it's back to the grind with our usual video updates! We managed to get up four new videos for April 18th and 19th. Kudos to our technicians for working so hard. Let's take a look at our latest videos!

Connecting the Honeywell Tuxedo Touch To WIFI

Jorge demonstrates the process for connecting a Honeywell Tuxedo Touch Keypad to a WIFI network. The Tuxedo Touch must be connected to the network so that it can communicate properly with Total Connect 2.0. Proper network connectivity is necessary for the keypad and the Total Connect 2.0 platform to remain constantly in sync. Whether a user operates a Z-Wave device or a smart scene from TC2 or their Tuxedo Touch Keypad, the other platform will receive notice regarding the device activity.

Factory Resetting a Tuxedo Touch Keypad

Jorge shows users how to perform a factory reset on a Honeywell Tuxedo Touch Keypad. By performing a factory reset, all device settings and configurations will be restored to their default values. This is a good option if you are taking over the Tuxedo Touch Keypad from someone else and you want to start fresh with original settings. A factory reset might also be performed as a final troubleshooting step if the device is not working properly. But keep in mind that the entire keypad will need to be reconfigured!

Testing the 2GIG SMKT3-345 Smoke and Heat Detector

Jorge teaches users how they can test a 2GIG SMKT3-345 Smoke and Heat Detector. The device has a test button that allows a user to test the device's LED light, sounder and signal transmission. But you must perform a manual test if you want to check the functionality for the sensor. This means using canned smoke to test the photoelectric smoke detector and a hair dryer on the highest setting to test the heat detector. Remember to place your system on test mode before testing!

ADC SVR122 Feature Overview

Joe talks about the ADC-SVR122 Stream Video Recorder. The Stream Video Recorded is designed exclusively for use with Alarm.com Security Cameras. It allows a user to achieve a 24-hour continuous recording schedule. The user can login to their Alarm.com account through the website or mobile app to view recorded clips that are stored on the ADC-SVR122. They can also connect an HDMI monitor for local viewing. The ADC-SVR122 can support up to eight cameras, and it comes in 500GB and 1TB storage options.

Hi DIYers! We sure have been busy the past couple of weeks following the ISC West 2019 Convention! The vast majority of our content has been posted, and we are now ready to resume our normal posting schedule. We would like to thank all of you for following us throughout this exciting event!

At present, our video team may still have a few interviews and ISC West 2019 overview videos that we may decide to post. But most of our content from the convention has been posted and discussed. While there may still be a few surprises up our sleeves, you can now expect us to continue with our regular posting schedule. This means daily blog posts Monday thru Friday, as well as any immediate breaking news that affects the security industry and/or our monitored customers.

If you missed any of our content from ISC West 2019, we strongly encourage you to scroll down and check it out! We have first-hand looks at new and upcoming products, in-depth interviews with industry leaders, and general discussions outlining the biggest security event of the year. It truly is an exciting time for the security industry, and we are sure that you will want to stay current with the latest news!

Some of the ISC West content we covered this year includes:

• Upcoming Resideo Pro SiX Series Lineup
• Brand-New Nortek & 2GIG Encrypted Products
• First Look at New Interlogix Security Systems
• Redesigned Tuxedo Touch & 6290 Touchscreen Keypads
• Resideo AlarmNet LTE Communicators
• Latest Offerings from August & Yale Smart Locks
• Exclusive Qolsys Commercial Platform Interviews
• In-Depth Look at Danalock Smart Locks
• Alarm.com SONOS Integration & T3000 Thermostat
• Upcoming Multi-Protocol VERSA Motion Sensor
• Exclusive Interview with Z-Wave Alliance and Silicon Labs

Just because ISC West 2019 is over does not mean you should stop checking our blog! We are always posting new and interesting content to keep you in the know. You can expect a fresh post on Monday covering the latest news from Alarm Grid and the security industry. We would like to thank all of you for following us during ISC West 2019. And as always, thanks for keeping up with Alarm Grid. We are extremely proud to help keep your homes, businesses and loved ones safe and protected at all times.

And don't forget, Alarm Grid monitored customers can always receive free support online and over the phone! If you are an Alarm Grid monitored customer, or if you are interested in joining Alarm Grid, the best way to reach us is to email support@alarmgrid.com. We also offer phone support at (888) 818-7728 during our business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F.

Whether you have been a longtime Alarm Grid customer or you are just getting started with home or business security, we thank you tremendously for your support, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Hi DIYers! We have an very exciting and in-depth interview from ISC West 2019. Our team sat down with Mary Miller of the Z-Wave Alliance to discuss the latest in Z-Wave smart home technology. Users can expect diversified products, improved battery life, enhanced functionality and more.

Nearly every new alarm system hitting the market will utilize Z-Wave Plus technology, which is also known as the Z-Wave 500-Series chipset. This advanced protocol has provided great results for users looking to achieve complete and robust smart homes. Users can expect the upcoming 700-Series to further improve upon this excellent technology and make compatible devices even easier to use.

It's fair to expect that 700-Series compatible alarm systems and controllers are currently in the pipeline from various manufacturers. We will make sure to update you with the latest news as it becomes available. For now, we invite you to check out our in-depth interview for more information about the latest Z-Wave technology:

Keep checking the Alarm Grid blog for the latest security news and discussions. We will have more updates coming soon!

Hi DIYers! Today, we're taking a quick look at the upcoming Wireless VERSA Multi-Protocol Motion Sensor. We got the first look at this device at ISC West 2019, and we think it will make for a great addition to nearly any home or business alarm system that needs reliable motion detection.

As you may know, VERSA already offers a door and window contact that uses the same hardware as the Honeywell 5800MINI. The VERSA Contact is currently available in a 2GIG 345 MHz Variant and a Qolsys/Interlogix/GE 319.5 MHz Variant. Well their multi-protocol motion sensor is a complete game-changer, as its wireless frequency can be adjusted to work with the end user's security system.

The Wireless VERSA Multi-Protocol Motion Sensor will feature an adjustable knob that can be used to set the sensor to work with Honeywell, 2GIG, Qolsys, Interlogix/GE, Bosch and DSC Systems. This technology is revolutionary, and it should make things very easy for DIY users in knowing that the sensor will work properly.

Like most motion sensors, the new VERSA motion will use PIR technology to detect movement. It will also offer high and low sensitivity options. The low sensitivity setting will be used in most applications, and it will support pet-immunity. The high sensitivity option will be suitable for applications that require a higher level of security.

VERSA expects that the new motion will be available sometime in the next couple of months. Additionally, we also received word from VERSA that a multi-protocol wireless door and window contact is also in the works. You will soon be able to outfit nearly any wireless system with VERSA contacts and motions!

We encourage you to view the following video for more information about the upcoming motion:

Keep checking Alarm Grid for more news from ISC West 2019. We will make sure to keep you updated!

Hi DIYers. We made sure to check out the Alarm.com booth at ISC West 2019. The announcements we were most excited about were the SONOS integration with the Alarm.com app and the upcoming ADC T3000 Thermostat. Both will fit in very nicely with the smart home platform offered from Alarm.com.

Alarm.com users will soon be able to integrate their SONOS Speakers with their programmed Alarm.com smart scenes. Users will have the ability to select which audio playlist will play when the scene is triggered. This feature will be great for users who want to put a specific playlist into action when they disarm their system to trigger a scene. The Alarm.com Mobile App will also allow users to play and pause the playlist and adjust the volume as needed. Users with multiple SONOS Speakers can even choose which device(s) will play audio. And with the SIRI shortcuts feature for scene control, it will also be possible to activate a SONOS Speaker using spoken voice commands.

The ADC T3000 Thermostat will essentially replace the ADC T2000 Thermostat. This upcoming Z-Wave thermostat will utilize Z-Wave Plus technology for enhanced signal range. The back of the device offers more space for wiring, and the improved terminals allow installers to make connections more easily. A built-in level helps ensure that the end result is neat and tidy. The UI is very simple, but it also appears modern and sleek. It should fit in very nicely with almost any existing decor. Alarm.com also helped make the device easier to understand, as the words "Heat" and "Cool" are actively displayed based on the current action. Many programming options and settings are available, and the device integrates beautifully with the Alarm.com App.

Thank you for making Alarm Grid your source for ISC West 2019 news! Keep checking our blog for the latest updates.

Hi DIYers! We're keeping the ISC West 2019 content rolling by giving a brief overview of Danalock's presence in the Z-Wave Alliance booth. As you know, Alarm Grid loves all things related to smart home automation, and we believe that Danalock can make a great addition to nearly any home.

The third generation Danalock V3 can be split into two main versions. These are the Danalock V3 Z-Wave and the Danalock V3 HomeKit. Both options provide superb protection and are easily powered using four CR123A lithium batteries. They also offer 256-bit AES encryption for top-of-the-line wireless security. And of course, users will appreciate the sleek and modern design.

The HomeKit version is perfect for iOS users looking for a quick and convenient way to lock and unlock their home using the iPhone or iPad. Unlike the Z-Wave model, the HomeKit version of the Danalock is mostly a standalone device that does not pair with other Danalock accessories. Still, iOS users who want a simple, yet effective smart lock will certainly be impressed.

However, the Z-Wave version of the Danalock is where the device really shines. The lock is certified Z-Wave Plus, giving it an extended range and enhanced battery life when compared with classic Z-Wave devices. The Danalock Z-Wave will pair with nearly any Z-Wave controller and allow users to operate it remotely through an interactive platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

The Danalock V3 Z-Wave is also known for supporting key accessories and add-ons that serve to enhance its capabilities. The Danabridge V3 Hub lets the user connect their Z-Wave Danalock with a local WIFI network. This way, they can control the device using the Danalock App on their Android or iOS device. This app will also keep track of when the lock is used and which codes are used to control the lock.

Another accessory supported by the Danalock V3 Z-Wave is the Danapad V3, which is essentially an external, push-button keypad for Danalock devices. Codes are pushed to the Danapad either through the Danalock App (Danabridge V3 required) or through the user's Z-Wave hub. The device can store up to 20 user codes, and it measure 3.2 inches in diameter and 1.4 inches thick. It is powered using four AAA batteries. Please note that the HomeKit version of Danalock will NOT support the Danapad.

Finally, we also took a brief moment to check out some of the Z-Wave light switches and other devices featured in the Z-Wave Alliance booth. It's amazing to see how Z-Wave Plus technology has really taken off and continues to evolve. We hope to be making more Z-Wave smart home devices available on our website in the near future!

Keep checking the Alarm Grid Security Blog for more ISC West 2019 content coming soon! We still have some key interviews and videos we are hoping to put out in the coming days!

Hi DIYers! We're still revisiting ISC West 2019. This video continues from the previous one. Frank from Alarm Grid and Jeremy from Qolsys continue to discuss how the IQ Panel 2 Plus has shifted from a strictly residential panel to a dual-purpose residential and commercial powerhouse.

The IQ Panel 2 was originally designed residential users in mind. The system continued that trend with its robust automation platform and user-friendly features like facial recognition and two-way video streaming. But Qolsys has been working to make their IQ Panel 2 Plus System a strong option for commercial users as well. This has been made possible by adding support for extended range PowerG Sensors and obtaining various commercial permits.

But while Qolsys has improved its commercial offerings, the company has also managed to retain its already strong residential platform. The result is a robust and capable system that provides users with the best of both worlds. Not only do business owners get a reliable system that meets all of their requirements, they also get to enjoy the advanced add-ons that would normally only be available for a top-of-the-line residential panel.

Today, anyone looking for an alarm system with the best of commercial and residential features all-in-one has the ideal solution in the IQ Panel 2 Plus. Watch the following video to learn more:

Stay tuned for more ISC West 2019 recaps coming soon!

The Alarm Grid content team had the opportunity to visit the Assa Abloy booth at ISC West 2019. Assa Abloy owns both August and Yale, and we were able to check out some of the latest models. These residential smart locks would certainly make for great additions to almost any home.

Smart locks offer tremendous convenience, as you can operate them through simple keypad rather than having to use a manual key. They can also be controlled remotely using platforms like Apple HomeKit, Total Connect 2.0 and Alarm.com. This is made possible using wireless protocols like WIFI and Z-Wave. You are certainly missing out if you haven't added a smart lock to your home yet!

Assa Abloy confirmed that all their locks that use Z-Wave technology will be certified Z-Wave Plus. This makes them perfect for controlling through the interactive service platform that you use with your security system. Meanwhile, their WIFI models will be compatible with the Apple HomeKit platform. This is great news for iOS users, as they will surely enjoy the convenience of being able to control their lock from anywhere using their phone!

Assa Abloy had many locks on display. We're just going to focus on the ones that we feel would make a great addition to any smart home. A major highlight was the Yale YRD256 Assure Lock, which is available in both Z-Wave and HomeKit variants. The lock allows users to create up to 250 unique four to eight digit codes, and it also features auto re-lock, privacy mode and tamper alarms. It has a voice-guided setup menu, making it very easy to perform a DIY installation. The device comes in three finish options, which include Polished Brass, Oil Rubbed Bronze and Satin Nickel.

Other notable locks included the Yale B1L YRD110 Lock with Z-Wave, the Yale Assure Lever Touchscreen Lock and the August Smart Lock Pro. The Smart Lock Pro is particularly interesting, as it utilizes both Z-Wave and WIFI (requires Yale Connect WIFI Bridge) for remote access. The device can interface with many smart assistants, including Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Integrations with AirBnB, HomeAway and Nest are also available. Easy installation is made possible with help from the August Home App. The lock is available in silver and dark grey finishes. Note that the model on the top in the third picture below is the Smart Lock Pro version.

Assa Abloy also used ISC West as an opportunity to unveil their upcoming August View Video Doorbell. It offers 1440p resolution and captures clips in a 4:3 ratio. The live feed and recorded clips can both be conveniently viewed from the August Home App. You can also zoom in when watching the video to really focus on a particular section of the footage. The device also uses IR technology for night vision, and it supports two-way voice conversation through the August Home App.

Many great August and Yale Locks are already available for purchase from Alarm Grid, including some mentioned in this post. Our offerings include:

• August Smart Lock Pro
• August Connect WIFI Bridge
• August Smart Lock Pro w/ Connect Bridge Bundle
• Yale YRD216 Z-Wave Lock
• Yale YRD226 Z-Wave Lock
• Yale YRD246 Z-Wave Lock
• Yale YRD 256 Lock - HomeKit Version
• Yale YRD 256 Lock - Z-Wave Version

We gotta say it was a great ISC West 2019 for Assa Abloy. We're really excited about their August and Yale Locks, and we hope you are too! Remember to stick to our blog for the latest updates from ISC West 2019.