Total Connect 2.0 Posts

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!

If you're looking to get started with DIY home security, then your first step is usually to get a system. What many people don't realize is that they don't necessarily need a brand-new panel and sensors to get started. Most users can achieve dependable security setups with used systems.

Really, the decision to whether you get new or used equipment comes down to personal preference. For some users, there's nothing quite like taking a fresh panel out of the box and appreciating its modern beauty and shiny exterior. We understand. It's fun. Believe it or not, this is actually why many of the people at Alarm Grid chose this profession - we love working with the latest and most advanced security equipment on a regular basis!

For other users, this might not mean as much. They might not care how their system looks or if it is technically the most advanced model. They just want a reliable piece of equipment that will keep their home or business safe for many years to come. And that's fine. Alarm Grid embraces these customers just the same as those who are willing to shell out thousands of dollars for brand-new state-of-the-art equipment. In fact, we often view trying to use existing equipment as the true DIY spirit. If you have it and it works, why replace it?

From our perspective, we don't really care whether you use new or used equipment. We just want to get you monitored and keep your home or business safe. Our monitoring plans are not dependent upon which system and sensors you use. They are dependent upon the services you receive. Customers pay higher monthly fees for necessary services like cellular connectivity, central station monitoring, access to an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, smart home automation features and video surveillance.

In other words, your monitoring fee is not affected by whether you use a brand-new Honeywell Lyric Controller with encrypted sensors or a 15-year old VISTA Panel running the same hardwired sensors since day one. If that VISTA is running cellular and the Lyric is WIFI-only, then the VISTA will have the higher monitoring costs. It's as simple as that. So really what you should be doing if you are new to monitoring is finding out what services you need.

When you think about it, the main job of an alarm system is being able to send reliable outbound alerts. Everything beyond that is just used to add extra features or to improve upon the end user's experience. It doesn't matter whether your system is brand-new or 20-years old. What does matter is whether or not it can function reliably based upon today's standards.

The main reason why alarm systems ultimately become obsolete is because they cannot keep up with the latest communication technology. These days, if a system cannot support cellular communication through an LTE network, then it could be considered obsolete. Older 2G networks are already a thing of the past, and 3G networks should follow suit in the coming years. For a long-term investment, getting on an LTE network or higher is a must.

But not all alarm system cellular communicators are created equal. Older modules can only connect to older cellular networks. And when these older networks become discontinued, the communicator becomes obsolete. The alarm manufacturer needs to decide whether or not it is worth releasing a new communicator for this older system. This is more difficult than it might initially seem. Releasing a new communicator might require a major system firmware update that could be difficult to apply, and many people might have already moved on to a new system.

The reality is that sometimes it's just best for an alarm manufacturer to drop support for a panel and try to steer their customers to their newer offerings. This is how they stay competitive and move the industry forward. What can be difficult for customers is knowing when they are best reviving an older system and when it's time to just buy a new model instead.

There are many older panels that can do nearly anything a modern alarm system can. They can receive communicator upgrades to work across faster and more reliable networks. They can have smart home automation modules installed to support Z-Wave devices. Many even have touchscreen keypads available for a better end user experience! You just need to ask yourself if the system you are looking at can support a proper communication path and whether or not it can fulfill all your needs.

If you do decide that an older system is the way to go, then we think that's great! Our team will certainly help you embrace the task of helping you get your used alarm system up and running with Alarm Grid monitoring services. We even had s few tips for helping you find older equipment.

First and foremost, you should look around you. For example, you might have moved into a new home with an existing alarm system. Or maybe your friend or loved one has a system they don't use any more, and they don't mind giving it to you. Even if you just find some old sensors, they might be a start. Check around and see if you come across some older systems. You might be surprised!

If you do need to make some purchases, why not try an online auction site or your online classifieds? There is often perfectly functional security equipment available at shockingly low prices. You may be able to buy it for yourself and get it monitored. Just make sure to find out what the panel can and cannot do before you buy it! We strongly recommend getting a system that can support cellular communication and access to an interactive service platform. Used security sensors are also often a great option, since they can usually be obtained at a fraction of the price!

For users who want a quick and easy answer, they might consider buying refurbished equipment from Alarm Grid. We currently offer options for refurbished Honeywell Lyric Alarm Systems and refurbished Honeywell VISTA 21iP Systems. This equipment is sent to us directly from the manufacturer, and it is guaranteed to work just as well as a brand-new system. This way, you can get a system at an affordable cost and know that it will work just as well as a new one.

If you're looking for used alarm system equipment, you don't have to go at it alone. Alarm Grid is here to help you so that you can get monitored. We can answer your questions about used security panels and sensors and determine whether or not they are right for your needs. We recommend sending an email to support@alarmgrid.com with any questions you might have. We also offer phone support for those interested in our monitoring services. Just call (888) 818-7728 during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you find the best security equipment for your needs.

Hi DIYers! If you're a business owner, they you know how important it is to make sure you are protected in every situation. Setting up security cameras in your shop or business can help protect you against fraud. That way, you'll have video evidence if someone tries to take you to court!

It's no secret that customer-oriented businesses and security cameras are the perfect match. A video surveillance system is great for catching theft and dishonest bait-and-switch tactics that a small number of dishonest people may try to get away with. But what you might not think of is using security cameras to protect your company in case of a lawsuit.

Having unsafe conditions in your store is a recipe for a costly lawsuit. That is why most business owners take every precaution to ensure that their customers are safe and that their company is not liable in case of an accident. However, this doesn't necessarily stop a dishonest individual or group from trying to pull a fast one.

This is actually a really easy scheme to pull off. Any individual can go into a store and intentionally put some water or loose objects on the floor. They might come back shortly thereafter and pretend to slip and fall on the hazard that they just laid out. From there, they claim to be injured and try to make a quick payday based on "negligence" of the company. That's not fair!

While it might seem crazy that some people would go to such lengths to try and make a quick buck, the practice is all too real. Just take a look at this video where one man pretended to slip on some ice cubes:

Fortunately, this company had security cameras installed to catch the man in the act. But just imagine if the cameras hadn't been there. This man could have easily gotten away with thousands of dollars once everything was said and done! This is another reason to invest in security cameras for your business! If you already have a business security system, then adding cameras is usually quite simple. You can usually keep your existing equipment and add cameras as a new addition.

At Alarm Grid, any customer can add security cameras by upgrading to a Platinum Monitoring Plan. In addition to supporting security cameras, this plan also includes dual-path connectivity through IP and cellular, remote alerts via text and/or email, and automatic emergency dispatch from a central monitoring station. Our Platinum Plan is only $10 more per month than Alarm Grid's standard cellular monitoring plan, the Gold Plan. This means that there really isn't any major up-charge for video monitoring.

Just $45 per month will get you all of the monitoring features mentioned above. You will purchase your system and your cameras outright from the start. These devices are yours to keep, and they can be taken to a different monitoring company if you ever decide to do so. They are also very easy to install, and most end users can complete the process with minimal online or phone support. Alarm Grid offers both Total Connect 2.0 Cameras and Alarm.com Cameras, depending on the customer's interactive service.

Please reach out to us if you're an Alarm Grid monitored customer interested in learning more about video surveillance. The best way to reach us is to send a quick email to support@alarmgrid.com. You can also call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F to talk with us on the phone. We look forward to working with you to keep your business safe!

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've learned that a new update to Total Connect 2.0 lets users enable a "Privacy When Disarmed" feature on their HD Cameras. This prevents the cameras from recording and capturing video clips while the system is Disarmed. It will then operate as normal when the system is Armed.

The Privacy When Disarmed feature is great for users who don't want to be bombarded with notifications that appear when their camera activates while they are around. This feature will automatically put the camera into Privacy Mode whenever the system is Disarmed. Once the system is Armed, the camera will exit Privacy Mode and begin operating normally. Many users don't need their camera to record and capture clips while their system is Disarmed, but having to go in and manually toggle the Privacy Mode option every single time can be inconvenient. Now there's an effective solution available!

Each Honeywell HD Camera can be set with the Privacy When Disarmed feature individually. There is currently no way to enable the feature for all the cameras at once. So if you want to use it with all your cameras, you must enable the option for each of them. Additionally, the feature right now turns off Privacy Mode for both Arm Stay and Arm Away settings. We're hoping that a future update will allow the option to be set for only Arm Away Mode. After all, we expect that some users won't want their camera to be taken off Privacy Mode after Arming Stay and remaining inside the building.

Before we get started demonstrating the feature, we do want to note that iOS users may need to log out of the Total Connect 2.0 Mobile App and log back in for the change to be implemented. But it should function normally from there on out. In our example, we will be using the app on an Android Phone.

Start by opening the Total Connect 2.0 App and logging in. Then select the Cameras tab:

We will be demonstrating the feature with our camera "B parking lot". Press the three dots next to the camera to access its advanced settings. Then toggle on the "Turn on camera privacy when security is disarmed". You will be backed out to the previous screen. However, you will notice that the camera's privacy option is still disabled, even if the system is currently in a Disarmed state:

But then try Arming (Away or Stay) and then Disarming from the App. When you navigate back to the Cameras tab, you will notice that Privacy Mode has been enabled automatically. Also the image preview will not be available:

Then if you Arm Away or Arm Stay, you will notice that Privacy Mode has been automatically turned off:

We will be sure to provide you with any additional updates regarding Total Connect 2.0 as we learn more information. If you're an Alarm Grid monitored customer and you have any questions, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 to during our normal business hours of 9am to 8pm EST M-F. If you would like to learn more about Alarm Grid monitoring and how you can start using Total Connect 2.0, please check out our monitoring page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! If you're looking to get started with home security, we urge you to make sure your system has a cellular communication path. This is the best way to ensure that your system remains monitored and protected at all times. All you need is the right communicator and monitoring plan.

When it comes to alarm monitoring, cellular communication is the undisputed champion. This is due in large part to its exceptional reliability. Do you ever notice how the WIFI in your home or at work goes out from time to time. This almost never happens with cellular. Even lost calls really only occur in spotty coverage areas or due to changes in location. As long as you get good coverage and your system stays put, you can be sure that service will almost never go down.

With the widespread availability of cellular networks, almost everyone in the country receives strong cellular service in their area. If you are ever unsure, you can always check various coverage maps offered from cellular service providers. And even if you do live in a rural area with poor service, you may still be able to get the results you want using a cellular amplifier. Not only will this boost signal strength for your security system, it will also help you receive better cell service in general while you are at home.

One of the most important benefits of having cellular monitoring is that it will keep your home protected when the power is out. This is especially useful for those who live in areas with inclement weather that may frequently cause electrical outages. Cellular service does not require electricity, and it does not use a router. This is why your cell phone continues to work when the power is out. The same cannot be said for internet, which often goes down when the power is out. Most people don't have battery backup for their at-home WIFI routers.

Nearly all alarm systems use some type of backup battery setup. This keeps them running even when the power is out. But it's only useful if the system can still communicate outward. Cellular communication makes this possible. Just imagine if the power was out and an intruder were to break into your home. With cellular service, you will know you're protected.

Cellular communication also provides all of the same benefits that are offered by IP. It is relatively fast, and it supports interactive service platforms like Alarm.com and Total Connect 2.0. A user can access these services on their smartphone to arm and disarm their system, check current system status, and to control smart home devices. And fast communication speeds mean that any remote commands will go through nice and quickly. You can even add a cellular communicator to a panel that already supports WIFI to achieve an extra reliable dual-path communication setup!

You may be wondering what you need to get cellular communication for an alarm system. Well really it's as simple as having an alarm system with a cellular communicator and an appropriate alarm monitoring plan. Some panels, like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 come with one already installed. Others, like the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System, need to have one added separately. If you decide to go with Alarm Grid Monitoring, you will want to make sure you choose a Gold-level plan or higher.

But you don't have to design a cellular security system on your own. The fantastic support at Alarm Grid is here to assist. We'll help you choose the perfect system and equipment for your needs so that you have proper peace of mind. Just send an email to 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 and helping you design an effective and reliable security system with cellular communication!

Hi DIYers! We know it has been awfully chilly out there lately. We thought it would be a good time to talk about freeze sensors and the benefits they provide. These devices are strongly recommended for anyone who lives in a colder area who wants to make sure their home is kept temperate.

Also called temperature sensors, freeze sensors alert a security system when the ambient temperature falls below a certain threshold. Usually, this is around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. That way, the user can take proper action to prevent their pipes from freezing. Remember, water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and serious damage can occur if nothing is done in time. There are all sorts of horror stories of this happening while people are away for the day or on vacation.

Freeze sensors are particularly useful when used with an interactive service platform, such as Total Connect 2.0. These services will provide you with mobile alerts so that you will know if a situation occurs while you are away. Nearly every panel we sell can connect with one of these services. You just need the right communicator and monitoring plan.

While there are some standalone temperature sensors, freeze detection is often a secondary feature on a device. In fact, you might already have a device with freeze detection capabilities in your home and not even know it! The feature is commonly found on smoke detectors and flood sensors, so it never hurts to find out if your existing devices can also do freeze detection. For multi-function devices, freeze detection will usually operate on a specific Loop Number, and a unique system zone for freeze detection must be programmed.

If you're in the market for a new freeze sensor, you have plenty of options to choose from. The main thing to keep in mind is whether or not the device will work with your security system. If you are looking for a wireless sensor, then it must communicate at a compatible frequency. If you go the hardwired route, then your system must be able to support hardwired sensors. You might consider getting a smoke detector or a flood sensor that also includes the freeze detection function.

If you have a Honeywell or 2GIG System, then you likely use 345 MHz Sensors. The Honeywell 5821 is a convenient option for reliable freeze detection. You can also add a probe to have the 5821 Sensor double as a flood sensor. If you want a combination smoke and heat detector with freeze detection built-in, you might consider a Honeywell 5808W3.

For Interlogix Systems and the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2, you will want a 319.5 MHz Sensor. The Qolsys IQ Temp is a viable option. There's also the Interlogix TX-E611, which doubles as a flood sensor. For users also looking for a smoke, the Interlogix SDX-135Z also provides freeze detection.

If you have a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus or a DSC PowerSeries Neo, then your system supports PowerG Sensors. In that case, you might go with the DSC PG9905. This sensor will offer the impressive range of PowerG, as well as extremely secure 128-bit AES encryption.

For users who want to go the hardwired route, the best bet is often to go with a smoke detector that includes the feature. We often steer customers towards 2-wire smokes, since they are easier to set up. A good option is the System Sensor 2WTA-B, which also includes a built-in sounder.

Users who are having trouble deciding on a freeze sensor can always reach out to Alarm Grid. We are happy to help you find the perfect device for your needs. You may email us at support@alarmgrid.com, or call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Hi DIYers! Today, we wanted to show you a YouTube video review of one of our Lyric Kits made by Gabe from Security Baron. Gabe checks out each component of our Lyric AT&T-LTE 3-1 Kit. The kit includes a Lyric Panel, LTE communicator, 3 VERSA Contacts, a Honeywell PIR Motion and an LT-Cable.

We think this is a tremendous video, and we would really like to thank Gabe and Security Baron for putting it together. We certainly encourage all our customers to do unboxing videos just like this so that they can share their Alarm Grid experience with others. It makes us very proud to know that many people out there are making great use of our products.

In order to provide better information for our customers, we would like to go through and make some small notes on what was stated in the video. Although the video was super informative, we still can offer some further insight on the equipment that was presented.

First, the wireless door and window contacts featured in the video were actually VERSA-2GIG Door and Window Sensors. VERSA is the same company that manufactures the famous Honeywell 5800MINI Sensors. The VERSA Sensors are exactly the same as the 5800MINI Sensors, but they are available at a much lower cost. Those particular VERSA Contacts will work with the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System, as the 2GIG Go!Control and 2GIG GC3 Systems. Alarm Grid gets these sensors direct from VERSA to provide the lowest possible price for customers.

The VERSA Sensors are uni-directional devices that only send signals to the alarm system. They are not protected by any wireless encryption, but this is not a major concern for most users. However, Alarm Grid also offers a very similar kit that features encrypted door and window contacts. That kit provides Honeywell SiXMINICT Door and Window Contacts instead of the VERSA-2GIG Contacts. The bi-directional SiXMINICT Sensors use 128-bit AES encryption for added wireless protection.

The motion sensor shown in the video was a Honeywell SiXPIR Motion Sensor. This sensor works by using passive infrared (PIR) technology to detect the changes in infrared energy that occur with movement. Whenever a person or large object comes within the sensor's field of view (FOV), it will detect its energy signature and alert the security system. Just like the SiXMINICT Sensors, the SiXPIR Motion Sensor also uses bi-directional 128-bit AES encrypted communication. For optimal performance, the SiXPIR should be mounted at a height of between 7 and 9 feet.

The power cable that is shown is called the Honeywell LT-Cable. This handy accessory comes pre-prepared, and a user will not have to strip any wires to power on their Lyric Panel. By using the LT-Cable, the entire power-up process can be completed with just a simple screwdriver. Alarm Grid includes this cable with many of our system kits to make things easier for DIY users.

Not specifically mentioned in the video is the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A Cellular Communicator. This module is inserted into the side of the Lyric Panel, and it allows the system to communicate with the AlarmNet Servers through the AT&T LTE Network. Cellular communication is perfect for alarm systems because of its fantastic reliability and super fast speeds. By using this communicator, the Lyric System will be immediately capable of using a dual-path setup with both cellular and WIFI.

In the video, it is noted that the Lyric System works with Apple HomeKit. This is one of the best features of the Lyric, and pairing the system with HomeKit is very easy. By using the platform and a compatible HomeKit Hub, such as an iPad or Apple TV, a user can control their HomeKit devices remotely using their iPhone. We would also like to mention that the Lyric is compatible with Amazon Alexa through Total Connect 2.0.

For clarification, you can only stream live video on the Lyric Panel using a legacy Honeywell IP Camera. You cannot stream video directly from the panel using a newer Honeywell HD Camera, such as the Honeywell IPCAM-WIC2 mentioned in the video. Instead, these cameras can only be streamed through the Total Connect 2.0 service.

For DIY users, we also recommend adding a Honeywell LCP500-DK Desk Mount. This device will allow the user to install the system without having to mount it to the wall. Instead, it can be conveniently rested on any sturdy table or desk. You can also mount the wireless sensors using double-sided foam tape. This will let you complete the entire installation process with nothing more than a screwdriver. You don't need to drill any holes or use any power tools!

The Honeywell Lyric is not the only alarm control panel offered from Alarm Grid. We also offer many great systems from other companies like Qolsys and 2GIG. Our website also features a wide-selection of pre-packaged wireless system kits to fit a user's unique needs. All of the systems we offer are perfect for pairing with our alarm monitoring services, which start at as little as $10 per month. We can even takeover many existing systems so that users can get started without having to purchase new equipment.

If you want to learn more about Alarm Grid, or if you need help planning a security system, we invite you to reach out to us. The best way to contact us is to send a quick email to support@alarmgrid.com and let us know what you are looking for. If you would prefer to speak with us by phone, you can call us at (888) 818-7728 from 9am to 8pm EST M-F. We look forward to helping you meet your security needs!

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!