Video Recap Posts

Hi DIYers! We're back with another video recap, this time for September 20th through 28th. We have seven new videos from our technicians Joe, Jorge and Dylan to teach our customers how to use their security systems. Let's take a closer look and see what the Alarm Grid team has been up to.

Honeywell 5800MINI vs Honeywell SiXMINICT

Jorge explains the differences between the Honeywell 5800MINI and the Honeywell SiXMINICT sensors. These are both door and window contacts that are manufactured by Honeywell. But the Honeywell 5800MINI is a 345 MHz Honeywell 5800 Series Sensor that will work with most Honeywell Systems and 2GIG Systems. The SiXMINICT will only work with the Lyric Controller. Also the SiXMINICT is encrypted, while the 5800MINI is not. The devices measure similar in size, but the 5800MINI is slightly smaller.

Interlogix Simon XT Overview

Jorge provides a comprehensive overview of the Interlogix Simon XT Alarm System. The device supports 319.5 MHz sensors from Interlogix/GE and Qolsys. The system supports up to 40 zones, which is plenty for most average-sized homes and smaller businesses. But a cellular communicator is needed to receive cellular monitoring. By adding a cellular communicator, the system will be able to connect with Alarm.com and support Z-Wave smart home devices. Being able to access Alarm.com can greatly add to the end user experience.

Connecting an Interlogix XTi or XTi-5 to WIFI

Dylan explains how the Interlogix Simon XTi and Simon XTi-5 cannot connect to a WIFI network. These systems do not have a compatible WIFI card for connecting to a WIFI network. Instead, these systems can only receive monitoring service through a phone line or a cellular connection. A cellular connection is greatly preferred because it offers much faster speeds and vastly superior reliability. A compatible Alarm.com cellular communicator is needed to use a cellular connection with these systems.

Wiring a 5883H to a VISTA Security System

Joe shows users how to wire a Honeywell 5883H Wireless Transceiver to a Honeywell VISTA Alarm System. The Honeywell 5883H will allow the user to use both one-way and two-way 345 MHz wireless devices with their Honeywell VISTA Panel. This includes standard alarm sensors, like door and window contacts and motion sensors, which typically use one-way communication. But it also includes add-ons that require two-way communication between the device and the system. Examples of two-way devices include keypads and wireless sirens. The 5883H will support as many sensors as the VISTA Panel supports.

Programming a Keyfob to an Interlogix Simon XT

Joe demonstrates how to set up a key fob with the Interlogix Simon XT. This is done by putting the system into its learn mode and then activating the key fob to learn it in. The system should recognize the key fob, and the user will then be able to configure its settings. This includes setting the Group Number for the sensor. Most key fobs use Group Number 1, but there are occasions to use Group Numbers 3, 6 or 7 instead.

Changing the Battery of an Interlogix Simon XTi & XTi-5

Dylan shows users how to change the battery for an Interlogix Simon XTi or XTi-5. These systems normally rely on a plug-in AC connection for power. The backup battery will be slowly storing electricity for when the power does go out. When an electrical outage occurs, the system will automatically switch over to its backup battery power to stay running. The backup battery will need to be replaced every few years for proper operation. But it should otherwise serve as a reliable source for backup power.

How Many Keypads Can I Add to a Honeywell VISTA-20P?

Dylan explains how many keypads a user can add to their Honeywell VISTA-20P Security System. The panel will support up to eight addressable keypads and up to four advanced user interface (AUI) devices. The first keypad a user will want to add is an alphanumeric keypad, like the Honeywell 6160RF. This will allow the user to perform deep-level programming for their system. From there, they may want to add additional keypads for easier access. One thing to remember with touchscreen AUI devices is that the Total Connect service itself counts as one of the four AUI devices.

Hi DIYers! We're here with the Alarm Grid video recap for September 10th thru 17th. Our support technicians Joe, Dylan and Jorge are all back and here to teach you how to use your alarm system. We have seven new videos this time, with most of them focusing on the Interlogix Systems.

Disabling Chime on an Interlogix Simon XT

Dylan demonstrates how to disable the chime for an Interlogix Simon XT System. By disabling the chime, the panel will not produce any sounds when sensors are faulted. There is an option accessible from the main screen that is used with toggling the chime On and Off. If the option is set to Off, the chime will be disabled for the entire system. Alternatively, muting the system will also stop the panel from producing chimes. However, this will stop all system sounds, except for sirens.

Self Monitoring a Simon XT

Dylan talks about using a Simon XT with a self-monitoring plan. A self-monitoring plan means that the system is not connected with a central monitoring station. As a result, a user will be unable to receive automatic emergency dispatch. But a user will still be able to receive system alerts and notifications through text and/or email from Alarm.com. A user can take these notifications and contact the authorities when needed to keep their home or business safe.

Adding a Wireless Motion Sensor on an Interlogix Simon XTi

Jorge shows users how to add a wireless motion sensor to an Interlogix Simon XTi System. This is the same process that is used for enrolling a wireless sensor to an Interlogix Simon XTi-5 System. A motion sensor will actively search for any motion that is present in an area. If the device detects motion while the system is armed, an alarm will occur on the system. This makes these devices great for keeping the inside of a building protected and secured. The Simon XTi supports 319.5 MHz motion sensors.

Resetting an Interlogix Simon XTi and XTi-5 to Factory Defaults

Jorge demonstrates how to reset an Interlogix Simon XTi or XTi-5 System to factory default settings. Once the system has been defaulted, all programmed codes and sensors will be deleted. The Master, Installer and Dealer Codes will all be reset to the factory default values. All system settings will be restored to the default. A user will basically need to reprogram their entire panel after a factory default has been performed. Therefore, we usually only recommend a default if it is absolutely needed.

Adding Hardwired Zones to an Interlogix Simon XT

Dylan shows users how they can use hardwired sensors with the Simon XT System. There are a couple of ways that this can be done. The panel has two hardwired inputs for supporting two normally closed hardwired sensors. This is a great option if a user only needs to use a couple of sensors. The other option is to use a compatible wired to wireless converter. This is good for using several wired sensors. A good converter to use is the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 8 or 16.

Sensors Compatible with a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Alarm System

Joe talks about which sensors can be used with the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. The standard IQ Panel 2 contains a wireless receiver for supporting 319.5 MHz sensors. This includes all Qolsys Sensors and Interlogix/GE Sensors. If Qolsys S-Line Sensors are used, then they will be encrypted. Additionally, the upgraded Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus can support 915 MHz PowerG Sensors, plus one type of legacy sensors. This depends on which legacy daughtercard is installed. There are legacy options for 319.5 MHz, 345 MHz (Honeywell 5800 Series & 2GIG) and 433 MHz (legacy DSC).

Demonstrating Installer Code & Dealer Code on a Simon XTi and XTi-5

Joe explains the differences between the Installer Codes and Dealer Codes on the Simon XTi and XTi-5 Systems. Both of these codes are set to 4321 out of the box. However, they can be individually programmed if desired. The Dealer Code can do a few things that the Installer Code cannot. These mostly deal with the dialer for the system. Other than that, these codes serve exactly the same purpose. We generally recommend leaving these codes set to their default of 4321 so that the user does not get locked out of programming.

Hi DIYers! We missed the last video recap with the Labor Day holiday. So we've got an extra large update for you this time! Joe, Jorge and Dylan are back, and they are ready to help you get the most out of your security system. Let's take a look at the newest how-to videos from Alarm Grid!

Honeywell VISTA vs Honeywell Lyric Alarm System

Joe explains the differences between a Honeywell VISTA System and the Honeywell Lyric Controller. A Honeywell VISTA System and the Lyric Controller are both Honeywell Alarm Panels, and they can both be used with Total Connect 2.0. The biggest difference between these panels is that the Lyric is an all-in-one wireless system, while VISTA Systems are hardwired. This means that a VISTA System will require an external keypad for operation and a wireless receiver for supporting any wireless sensors.

What Is Bypassing a Zone on a Security System?

Dylan shows viewers how to bypass zones on Honeywell Security Systems. Bypassing a zone will have specified zones on the system remain inactive while the rest of the system is armed. This can be useful for when a user doesn't want a particular sensor to cause an alarm on the system. For instance, if a user is arming away, but they want to leave a window open, they might bypass the door and window contact that is used with that particular window.

How Does Crash & Smash Work?

Joe discusses "Crash & Smash" and how it is used with Alarm.com. An alarm system must be set up with a central monitoring station to use Crash & Smash. If an intruder breaks into a building and destroys the alarm system, then Crash & Smash will allow an alarm event to still occur. With Crash & Smash, Alarm.com knows that either a disarm signal or an alarm event must occur after a system has been activated. If neither event occurs, then ADC will recognize that the system must have been destroyed, and emergency dispatch will be sent out.

Can I Convert My Wired Honeywell System to be Wireless?

Joe talks about having a hardwired Honeywell VISTA System work with wireless sensors. By adding a compatible wireless receiver, a Honeywell VISTA System can communicate with wireless Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors. It is also possible to take wired sensors and connect them with a compatible wired to wireless converter, like the Honeywell 5800C2W. Then, as long as the VISTA has a wireless receiver, the hardwired sensors can be used with the VISTA as wireless sensors. This can eliminate the need for running wires across the entire building.

Does a 2GIG GC3 Require an Internet Connection?

Joe discusses how a 2GIG GC3 does not necessarily require an internet connection for alarm monitoring. The 2GIG GC3 can communicate with Alarm.com and a central monitoring station through a cellular connection. Cellular connectivity is required for a GC3 System to receive monitoring service. A cellular communicator must be added to the GC3 for this purpose. But the GC3 can still connect to WIFI for a dual-path communication setup. The system comes included with a built-in WIFI card.

Can I Use a 2GIG GC3 Without Alarm.com?

Joe explains how Alarm.com is required for the 2GIG GC3 to receive monitoring service. However, the system can be used as a local sounder without Alarm.com. This will still allow the system to activate a siren during an alarm event. This can be useful for letting building occupants know about an alarm. But without Alarm.com, the GC3 System will have no way of alerting off-site users or requesting automatic emergency dispatch from a central monitoring station.

Capabilities of the Lyric SiXSIREN Video

Joe goes over the functions and features of the Honeywell SiXSIREN. This is an external siren that is designed exclusively for use with the Honeywell Lyric Security Controller. The wireless siren can be mounted in a separate location from the panel to provide an alarm notification to a second part of the building. Both the SiXSIREN and the Lyric internal siren operate at a 85 dB, so a SiXSIREN won't make the alarm louder. But it can be good for spreading the alarm across a larger area. The SiXSIREN LED light provides visual indication of an alarm.

Changing the Installer Code on a LYNX Touch Security System

Joe explains how to change the Installer Code on a Honeywell LYNX Touch Alarm System. We usually advise users to keep their system Installer Codes at their default. This way, if a user ever forgets their Installer Code, they can look up the default Installer Code and get back into programming. But if a user changed their Installer Code and forgot it, then they would have to use the backdoor method to get back in. However, it is still possible to change the Installer Code for a LYNX Touch if desired.

Using Simon XTi with Total Connect

Dylan explains how the Interlogix Simon XTi cannot be used with Total Connect 2.0. The Total Connect 2.0 service is designed for Honeywell Systems only. The Simon XTi is manufacturer by Interlogix, and it is not compatible with Total Connect. Instead, the Interlogix Simon XTi can be used with the Alarm.com service. Alarm.com will offer similar functions and features as Total Connect 2.0. A cellular connection is required for the Simon XTi to be used with Alarm.com.

How Do You Delete a Honeywell Wireless Device?

Jorge shows users how to delete wireless sensors from their Honeywell Alarm Systems. This is done through system programming. A user will need to know the system's Installer Code to access programming. The default Installer Code for almost all Honeywell Systems is 4112. Once a wireless sensor has been deleted, it will need to be reprogrammed if the user wants to use that sensor with the system. A deleted sensor will no longer send alerts or notifications to the alarm system.

How Do I Enable the Receiver in a 6160RF?

Joe demonstrates how to enabled with wireless receiver inside a Honeywell 6160RF Keypad that is used with a Honeywell VISTA Alarm Panel. This is necessary for using wireless sensors with the system. Not only can the 6160RF be used as a primary controller for a VISTA System, it also provides a functional wireless receiver for the system. Once the wireless receiver for the 6160RF has been enabled, wireless sensors can be learned-in using the keypad. But it is important to remember that each VISTA System can only support a limited number of zones.

Resetting an Interlogix Simon XT to Factory Defaults

Jorge shows users how to reset the Interlogix Simon XT System to factory default settings. Defaulting the Simon XT will delete all sensors from the system, and it will clear any user codes that have been set up. Both the Installer Code and the Master Code will be restored to their default values. Because any sensor will need to be reprogrammed, we only recommend defaulting the system if it is absolutely needed. But defaulting the system can be useful in certain situations.

How Do I Un-Bypass a Bypassed Zone on a Honeywell System?

Jorge demonstrates how to un-bypass a zone that is currently bypassed on a Honeywell System. A bypassed zone will remain inactive when the rest of the system is armed. By un-bypassing a zone, the zone will once again be active when the system is armed. The advantage to bypassing and un-bypassing later is that the user will not have to delete the sensor and reprogram it later. They can simply bypass the sensor and then un-bypass it later, and the sensor will work perfectly with all of the settings still programmed.

Hi DIYers! We're back with another video recap, covering August 18th through 23rd. This time we have four videos - two from Jorge and two from Joe. The team has been working hard as usual to make new videos that will help users learn how to use their systems. Let's take a closer look:

Can I Connect A Wired Smoke To My 2GIG GC3?

Joe explains how the 2GIG GC3 System cannot support a hardwired smoke. The two wired terminals on the system are used with normally closed security devices only, and they cannot be used with hardwired smoke detectors. However, the 2GIG GC3 can support 345 MHz wireless smokes, including those from the 2GIG and the Honeywell 5800 Series. But an Encore FF345 can essentially integrate an existing hardwired smoke with a GC3 System. The FF345 will listen for the sound of an activated smoke detector and alert the system.

Using the Lyric Alarm System w/o Total Connect

Jorge discusses using the Honeywell Lyric Controller without Total Connect. While this is possible, it would severely limit the functionality of the system. For example, self-monitoring is impossible without access to Total Connect. But the system could still report out to a central monitoring station, or it could be used as a local sounder. But the Lyric Controller does not need a cellular module to access Total Connect, though adding one is recommended. Instead, it can use a WIFI connection from its built-in WIFI card to access Total Connect. The user will just need an appropriate monitoring plan.

Can I Use a Honeywell L7000 System Without Monitoring?

Jorge talks about using a Honeywell L7000 without alarm monitoring services. Without monitoring, the system will be unable to be used with Total Connect. The user will not be able to receive text or email alerts regarding system events, and they will not be able to receive automatic emergency dispatch from a central monitoring station. Instead, the system will only serve as a local sounder. This can be useful for alerting on-site occupants to an emergency.

Changing the Installer Code on an a LYNX Touch Security System

Joe shows users how to change the Installer Code for a Honeywell LYNX Touch Alarm System. While this is easy to do, we generally advise users to keep the Installer Code for a Honeywell System at its default of 4112. This will prevent the user from being locked out of programming later. If they ever forget the code, it will be okay because they can just look up the default. But while we recommend keeping the Installer Code at the default, changing the Master Code is very important. Remember, an Installer Code can only disarm if it was the code used to arm the system.

Hi DIYers! Are you ready for another Alarm Grid video recap? Our support technicians Joe, Jorge and Dylan have all been keeping busy making great new videos for our viewers. We've got some tremendous content this time around to help DIY users get the very most out of their security systems.

This is a particularly special video recap for our team, as we have just reached the 10,000 subscriber mark on YouTube. It's pretty incredible that 10,000 viewers love security systems enough to subscribe to our YouTube Channel to receive notifications about new videos. We would like to thank all of our YouTube Subscribers and monitored Alarm Grid customers for their continued support!

Security Cameras Compatible with LYNX Touch Security Systems

Joe discusses the security camera options available for use with a Honeywell LYNX Touch System. As long as the system is set up with Total Connect 2.0, any Total Connect Camera can be used. These cameras include both the legacy Honeywell IP Cameras and the newer HD Lyric Cameras. All cameras can be viewed and managed from the Total Connect 2.0 platform. But keep in mind that an alarm monitoring plan that includes video surveillance is needed to use these cameras.

Wholesale Home Alarm Monitoring w Alarm Grid

Dylan talks about wholesale alarm monitoring for home security systems. Wholesale monitoring refers to a situation where a person has multiple locations set up with a single monitoring account. This can be useful if a person has multiple residences, such as both a primary home and a summer home. By having multiple systems on the same account, a user can access all their systems from the same Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com account. These services have a locations tab for this specific purpose.

Changing the User Code on Partition 2 In a Honeywell VISTA Alarm System

Jorge goes through the process for changing a user code that has been set up with Partition Number 2 on a Honeywell VISTA Security System. Having multiple partitions on an alarm system allows the zones for one partition to remain armed while the zones on other partitions are disarmed. User codes that are designed to be used with Partition 2 exclusively are assigned code numbers 33 and up. Any code that is going to be used with Partition 2 should be assigned a user slot of 33 or higher.

Dual Path Monitoring on a Lyric

Dylan discusses how the Honeywell Lyric Controller can use a dual-path communication setup for alarm monitoring. This involves using WIFI as the primary communication path and cellular communication as the backup. This will provide the ultra-fast speeds of WIFI, along with the outstanding reliability of cellular. The system comes WIFI-ready with a built-in WIFI communicator. But a separate cellular radio will need to be added for cellular communication. We recommend using the Honeywell LYRICLTE-A Cellular communicator for this purpose.

Programming a 5816 Sensor

Jorge shows users how to program a Honeywell 5816 Door and Window Contact with various security panels. The Honeywell 5816 is actually Honeywell's best-selling security sensor of all-time. It is a relatively simple door and window contact that operates using a built-in reed switch and an included magnet. The sensor can also be used as a wireless transmitter for a single normally closed wired security device. The 5816 operates at 345 MHz, and it will learn-in with any compatible alarm system.

Difference Between Alpha-Numeric Programming Keypads and Fixed-English Keypads

Joe discusses the differences between Alphanumeric Keypads and Fixed-English Keypads. Both keypads can be used for performing basic panel functions, such as arming and disarming. But only an Alphanumeric Keypad should be used for deep level programming functions. This is because an Alphanumeric keypad will display actual English text and real programming information. A Fixed-English Keypad will only display numbers. If a user tries to perform programming functions on a Fixed-English Keypad, they will be operating blindly throughout the entire process, and they could easily mess up the panel settings.

Pairing the 2GIG SP2 Keypad with the 2GIG GC3

Joe shows users how to pair the 2GIG SP2 Keypad with the 2GIG GC3 Alarm System. The 2GIG SP2 is a wireless touchscreen keypad designed exclusively for use with the GC3. The keypad provides a great secondary access point for a GC3 System. Many users will install one of these keypads by their back door or their garage door so that they can conveniently arm and disarm their system from one of these locations. However, programming functions cannot be performed using the SP2, and they must be completed from the GC3 Panel, or from the more advanced SP1 Keypad.

Wiring a Trigger on a Lyric Alarm System

Dylan discusses how a trigger cannot be wired to a Honeywell Lyric Controller. The Lyric has two built-in hardwired inputs that can only support wired contacts. There is no voltage trigger available on the Lyric Controller. A trigger is an output that a system can activate under certain conditions. It can sometimes be used to activate a relay to power another device, such as a siren. Triggers are more commonly used with wired panels than wireless systems. If a user does want to use an external siren with the Lyric Controller, we usually recommend using the Honeywell SiXSIREN.