How Do I Find My VISTA 21iP's Installer Code?

There is no way to find your VISTA 21iP's Installer Code. The only way to know that you have the correct code is to use it to access programming. You should try the default code of 4112. If you lose your Installer Code, you can try using the backdoor method to get into programming.

The Installer Code for a Honeywell VISTA 21iP is a four-digit passcode that is used for accessing programming and making changes to the system's settings. We normally advise users to keep the code at its default of 4112 to prevent them from being locked out of programming later. In the event that a user does become locked out of programming, they can try using the backdoor method to get back in.

To access programming, a user should enter in the command [Installer Code] + 800. So if the IC is at its default of 4112, then the command would be 4112 800. You will know that you have entered programmed because the screen will display "Installer Code 20" or just "20" depending on the type of keypad that is being used.

If you want to change the Installer Code, you should access programming, and then press [*20]. Then enter the new four-digit Installer Code. So the complete command would be [Current IC] + [800] + [*20] + [New Installer Code]. The screen will then display the next programming field, *21. You can then press [*99] to exit programming.

Of course, you're better off just keeping the IC at its default of 4112. Keeping this code at its default does not present a security risk, as long as youdo not use the code to arm your system. You should only use the Master Code or a standard user code to arm your Honeywell VISTA 21iP Security System.

A user becomes locked out of programming if they lose their Installer Code or if they use a different command from [*99] to exit programming. Users should never use the [*98] command to exit programming. They should also never adjust the [*88] programming field, as doing so could cause them to become locked out of programming forever, even if the backdoor method is used. More information can be found in the *88 section of the VISTA 21iP Programming Guide.

If you lose your Installer Code or exit programming using the [*98] command, you can try using the backdoor method to get back in. To do this, complete the following steps:

1. Power down the system. Power down the system completely by disconnecting the battery and unplugging the transformer. The keypad should go completely blank. This indicates that the system has been shut down.

2. Reapply system power. Power the system back on by plugging in the transformer. Then reconnect the backup battery.

3. Press and hold buttons. Immediately after restoring power, press and hold the [*] and [#] keys at the same time. Technically, you only have to hold the buttons down for three seconds. But it's good practice to just keep them held down throughout the reboot process.

4. Change the Installer Code. If the backdoor method was performed successfully, you should be in programming. You will know that you are in programming because "Installer Code 20" or "20" will be displayed on the screen. We strongly encourage users to change the Installer Code back to its default of 4112. Enter the following command very carefully: [*20] + 4112. Then press [*99] to exit programming without locking yourself out. You can then use the system like normal.