What Type of Window Contacts Work w/ a Honeywell VISTA-20P Alarm System?

The type of window contacts that work with a Honeywell VISTA-20P Alarm System include hardwired window contacts and wireless 345 MHz window contacts. Hardwired contacts can be used with no additional equipment. A compatible wireless receiver is needed to use wireless 345 MHz contacts.

Window contacts are used to let a system know when a window has been opened. These devices typically work using a sensor and a magnet. The sensor is installed on or inside the window frame, while the magnet is installed on or inside the window itself. For best results, the sensor and magnet should be positioned as close as possible when the window is closed, preferably within a half inch. Opening the window will cause the magnet to separate from the sensor. This will release a metal reed switch inside the sensor. The sensor will then know to alert the system to the open window.

How the system responds to an open window is determined by the programmed Response Type for the zone. For Window Zones, the most common programming setting is 03-Perimeter. This will have the system go into immediate alarm if the zone is faulted while the system is Armed Stay or Armed Away. If the zone is faulted while the system is Disarmed, then the system will simply display the faulted zone and not take any other action. Of course, you can set the Response Type based on your particular needs. A list of Response Types (also called Zone Types) can be found on Page 19 of the VISTA 20P Programming Guide.

Out of the box, a Honeywell VISTA-20P System can only support hardwired contacts. These are some of the easiest devices to use with a wired alarm system like the VISTA-20P. Wired contacts are non-powered mechanical devices that connect with an open zone using a 2-wire connection. You can find wired contacts in very small sizes, and they are usually very inexpensive. You will also never need to replace any batteries for a wired contact sensor. However, you will need to run a wire from the sensor back to the panel.

If you add a compatible wireless receiver to your VISTA-20P System, then you can use wireless Honeywell 5800 Series Window Sensors. These sensors operate at 345 MHz, and they are easier to install than wired window sensors. You will not need to run a wire from the panel to the sensor when using these sensors. But keep in mind that these sensors will require occasional battery replacements, and they are often more costly than wired sensors. If you are looking for a compatible wireless receiver for your VISTA-20P System to support wireless 345 MHz sensors, then you have a few options available. You can get a keypad with a built-in wireless receiver like the Honeywell 6160RF. There are also standalone receiver modules like the Honeywell 5881ENH.