What Is a TG-1 Express Alarm Communicator?

A TG-1 Express Alarm Communicator is an alarm system accessory that allows a panel with a standard phone dialer to communicate across a cellular network. This provides many benefits for the system. Most notably, cellular communication is much faster and more reliable than telephone service.

Before cellular and IP communicators become popular, most alarm systems used phone dialers to dial out distress signals whenever alarm events occurred. These days, phone dialers are usually found on older panels only. Most newer panels have switched over to the superior IP and cellular communication paths. Most alarm system experts view phone line communication as obsolete due to its slow speed and general lack of reliability. It is very common for a phone line signal to fail to go through entirely. Additionally, a smart intruder can easily cut a phone line.

However, just because a panel uses a phone dialer does not necessarily mean that it needs to be replaced. The Telguard TG-1 Express can take the panel's phone dialer and allow it to send signal transmissions across a cellular network. The panel will think that it is dialing out like normal. But what is really happening is that the TG-1 Express is taking the phone signal and sending it through a cellular network. The TG-1 Express will send the signal to the Telguard Servers. From there, Telguard will reroute the signal to a central monitoring station.

Almost any panel that uses a phone dialer will work with the Telguard TG-1 Express. With the overall efficiency and reliability of cellular communication, the TG-1 Express is often a worthwhile investment. If the older panel still meets all of the needs and requirements of the end user, then they may fine keeping it and upgrading with the TG-1 Express rather than replacing it entirely. Keep in mind though that certain functions and features may require a complete system upgrade. Additionally, if the end user cannot access Installer Programming for their panel, then they will not be able to add a TG-1 Express, and the panel will need to be replaced.

The Telguard TG-1 Express comes in two variants. This determines which network the cellular signal will be sent across. Currently, there is an AT&T LTE option and a Verizon LTE option. The user should choose whichever service works better in their area. This has nothing to do with the user's personal cellular service provider. Both options will allow the end user to use to the Telguard HomeControl Flex App with their Telguard TG-1 Express. This application can be accessed from Android and iOS devices to allow end users to Arm or Disarm their systems remotely.