The Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT is an AT&T LTE Cellular Communicator for the Interlogix Simon Series Systems, including the Simon XT, Simon XTi, Simon XTi-5, Simon XTi-5i. This module will provide reliable connectivity between the panel and the Alarm.com servers across the AT&T LTE Cellular Network. The unit also includes a built-in Z-Wave controller so that you can begin building an automation network for use with the system. Overall, we really like the Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT, and we would recommend it to any Interlogix Simon System user who receives good coverage from the AT&T LTE Network. For that reason, we give this product a 5 Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT. For one, it provides reliable monitoring service across the AT&T LTE Network. With a strong cellular connection, it is highly unlikely that your system will ever lose service or go offline. The fact that this communicator allows for connectivity with Alarm.com is very important, as the platform allows for convenient remote system and automation operation. And the fact that the Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT doubles as a Z-Wave controller is an added bonus, as you can begin setting up an automation network of smart devices for use with the Alarm.com platform.

The Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT does not have many downsides. One issue is that it requires a cellular monitoring plan to be used. A cellular monitoring plan is typically more expensive than an IP-only monitoring plan that other systems can support. The Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT provides cellular connectivity only. Since most Alarm.com Monitoring Plans include both cellular and IP service, you may want to get a communicator that allows for both cellular and IP service. Like any communicator for an Interlogix Simon System, the Interlogix 600-1048-LTE-AT must be installed inside the panel. But these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the product a 5 Star rating.

Good: Reliable Monitoring Service, AT&T LTE, Alarm.com, Z-Wave

Bad: Requires Cellular Monitoring Plan, Cell-Only, Must be Installed

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The DSC 3G8055IAT is a defunct communicator and image sensor module for the DSC Impassa Security System. This communicator allowed for connectivity with the AT&T 3G Network, and it also allowed a compatible image sensor to be used with the system. AT&T is currently in the process of shutting down their 3G network, and the communicator can no longer be activated for new alarm monitoring service. If you have a DSC 3G8055IAT Communicator that is currently activated, then you can continue to use it until AT&T formally shuts down the associated network. This is expected to occur sometime in 2022. For anyone looking for a new communicator for an Impassa System, we recommend getting one of the LTE communicators that are available instead. And anyone with an existing DSC 3G8055IAT should make sure to upgrade to a new communicator (or a new system) as soon as possible. As for the DSC 3G8055IAT, we only give it a 3 Star rating.

There are some positive aspects regarding the DSC 3G8055IAT. As a cellular communicator, it provides reliable monitoring service. In fact, cellular communication is generally recognized as being the single most reliable communication path available for a security system. The fact that this communicator allowed for connectivity with Alarm.com was also a nice touch, as that is an outstanding remote monitoring and automation platform. The DSC 3G8055IAT doubles as a Z-Wave controller so that you can build an automation network around the Impassa for use with Alarm.com. And we also like the fact that the DSC 3G8055IAT provides support for an image sensor module.

But the downsides for the DSC 3G8055IAT should not be ignored. The communicator can no longer be activated for monitoring service. And once AT&T shuts down their 3G network, the communicator will stop working entirely. Like any Impassa Cellular Communicator, the DSC 3G8055IAT must be physically installed inside the panel. As these downsides are very significant, we can only give the DSC 3G8055IAT a score of 3 Stars.

Good: Reliable Monitoring Service, Alarm.com, Z-Wave, Image Sensor Support

Bad: Can No Longer be Activated, Will Stop Working After Network Shutdown, Must be Installed

Bottom Line: 3 Stars

The Honeywell Lyric-CDMA is a defunct communicator that was once sold as a cellular communicator add-on for the Honeywell Lyric Security System. Since Verizon is in the process of shutting down their CDMA Network, the Lyric-CDMA has been discontinued for purchase. It is also now impossible to activate an existing Lyric-CDMA for monitoring service. If you have an existing Lyric-CDMA Communicator that has already been activated, then you can continue to use it until Verizon shuts down their CDMA Network. This is expected to occur sometime in 2022, though no official date has been revealed to the general public. Alarm Grid now recommends buying an LTE communicator instead, such as the Honeywell LYRICLTE-V Verizon LTE Communicator. As for the Honeywell Lyric-CDMA, we only give it 4 Stars, as it is no longer an optimal communicator for the system.

There are positive aspects regarding the Lyric-CDMA. For one, it allows for the use of Total Connect 2.0. This is a monitoring and automation platform that users can access to control their Honeywell Systems remotely. Since Verizon has not yet shut down their CDMA Network, you can continue to temporarily use the communicator for monitoring service, at least until the network is permanently shut down. We also like the fact that the communicator is very easy to install.

But the negative aspects for the Honeywell Lyric-CDMA should not be ignored. The communicator can no longer be activated for monitoring service. And once Verizon shuts down their CDMA Network, then the communicator will stop working entirely. Anyone with this communicator should make sure to upgrade to an LTE communicator as soon as possible. That is the only way to continue using the Lyric System for cellular monitoring service. With that in mind, we only give the Lyric-CDMA 4 Stars.

Good: Total Connect 2.0, Can be Used Until Network Shutdown, Easy to Install

Bad: Can No Longer be Activated, Will Stop Working Soon

Bottom Line: 4 Stars

The Linear WT00Z-1 is a 3-way switch that is used to control lighting loads that have already been wired to a switch or dimmer. As a result, the Linear WT00Z-1 doesn't actually control any lighting devices on its own. It is simply an add-on accessory that allows a user to control a light from a secondary on-site location. The advantage to using the Linear WT00Z-1 is that it can be associated with master, load-bearing switches using Z-Wave technology. This is as opposed to a physical traveler wire, which is traditionally used to associate a load-bearing switch with a 3-way switch. This is huge, as it can really make an installation easier. As such, we give the Linear WT00Z-1 a 5 Star rating.

As we mentioned before, the biggest advantage to the Linear WT00Z-1 is that it is a 3-way switch that can pair with a load-bearing switch across a Z-Wave network. This eliminates the need for running a traveler wire from the load-bearing switch to the 3-way switch. And you aren't limited to a 3-way setup, as 4-way and 5-way lighting loads are also possible. And each WT00Z-1 can control up to three (3) groups, meaning that it is possible to control up to 15 different light switches and dimmers with a single WT00Z-1.

The biggest downside to the Linear WT00Z-1 is that it is not actually a load-bearing switch. It is only used alongside actual load-bearing switches. You will only use it if you are configuring a multi-pole lighting setup. Keep that in mind when purchasing. Also remember that the Linear WT00Z-1 uses classic Z-Wave technology as opposed to newer Z-Wave Plus. You may want to look for a Z-Wave Plus model if you are using Z-Wave Plus devices, as to keep your network consistent. But these downsides are fairly minor, and they do not stop us from giving the Line WT00Z-1 a 5 Star score.

Good: No Traveler Wire Needed, Up to 5-Way Lighting Setup, Controls Up to 3 Groups of Switches

Bad: Not a Load-Bearing Switch, Classic Z-Wave

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The DSC RXL2-433 is a wireless receiver add-on for hardwired DSC PowerSeries Systems. It is for standard PowerSeries Systems only, and it cannot be used with the newer DSC PowerSeries NEO Systems. It supports both uni-directional (one-way) and bi-directional (two-way) 433 MHz sensors. The most popular sensors used with the device are the legacy DSC models, which famously operate at the 433 MHz frequency. You may also encounter various third-party 433 MHz sensors that will also work with this wireless receiver accessory. The product has been discontinued, so you will be unlikely to find a new model. But if you find a used one, then it should still work well. We like this product, and we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the DSC RXL2-433. For one, it supports almost all 433 MHz sensors, so you should have no trouble finding compatible sensors from the legacy DSC Sensor lineup. There are two (2) on-board relays for the device, which can really come in handy when adding relay-triggered devices to your system. Furthermore, we also like the fact that there are four (4) different programmable relay options, including momentary, timed, latched, and continuous. This makes it easier to set up your relay device exactly how you want. Since the device supports 2-way communication, you can also use encrypted 433 MHz key fobs.

There are some downsides to the DSC RXL2-433 that should be kept in mind. For one, it is only compatible with a select range of DSC PowerSeries Systems. Make sure your system is compatible before seek out this module. Another downside is that this model is discontinued, and you will be unlikely to find it new. A used model should still work well if you come across one. Overall, these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the DSC RXL2-433 a 5 Star score.

Good: Supports Almost Any 433 MHz Sensor, 2 On-Board Relays, 4 Programmable Relay Options, Supports 2-Way Communication

Bad: Only For DSC PowerSeries Panels, Discontinued

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The DSC PG9994 is an outdoor PowerG Motion Sensor. It can be used with any system that supports PowerG Sensors, including the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, the DSC Iotega, and any DSC PowerSeries NEO Panel with an added wireless receiver. As a PowerG Sensor, the DSC PG9994 offers an impressive wireless range of up to 2km in open air, depending on the panel it is being used with. It also uses military grade 128-bit AES encryption in all of its communications for added security. We think this is an outstanding sensor, and we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many things to like about the DSC PG9994. One aspect we like is the fact that the sensor uses eight (8) smaller individual PIR sensors in conjunction to accurately detect motion. And with the device's protective and water-resistant exterior, the PG9994 still works great in less-than-ideal weather conditions, such as heavy rain and snow. Meanwhile, the mirror-optic capabilities of the sensor further improve upon its already great coverage range and detection accuracy. As we mentioned earlier, the sensor has an excellent wireless communication range as well. And the fact that the sensor uses military grade 128-bit AES encryption is also appreciated, as it makes the sensor virtually impossible to hack. We also like the fact that the sensor has a tamper cover switch, and the system will be alerted if anyone tries to open up the sensor.

There are not many downsides to the DSC PG9994. One issue that we find is with the design of the DSC PG9994. It literally looks like a small toilet. This has led to many jokes around the office, and it usually results in a few chuckles when recommending it to customers. We're not sure why DSC chose this design, but whatever. We must also admit that the sensor is quite pricey. As of June 2020, we have it listed for $193.99. That is, without a doubt, one of the most expensive single sensors we have ever encountered. But if you can stomach the steep pricetag and the potty design, then the DSC PG9994 is a fantastic product. We give it 5 Stars for its great performance.

Good: Uses 8 Individual PIR sensors, Water-Resistant Exterior, Great in Poor Weather, Fantastic Range, Mirror Optics, 128-Bit AES Encryption, Tamper Switch

Bad: Looks Like a Toilet, Expensive

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The DSC PT4 is a replacement proximity tag for use with the DSC WT5500P Keypad. This is an optional keypad for a DSC Impassa System that includes a built-in proximity tag reader. The DSC PT4 also works with the DSC WTK5504P Touchscreen Keypad, which is also built for use with the DSC Impassa Security System. While both of these keypads already come with a proximity tag, you may need to replace it with a new one. Or another possibility is that you just want a second proximity tag for the keypad. Either way, the DSC PT4 works great in this role. For that reason, we give the DSC PT4 a 5 Star rating.

There are many reasons to like the DSC PT4 Proximity Tag. For one, it offers a convenient way to arm or disarm the system, in place of entering a valid code. It is great for users who may suffer from memory loss, as well as those who do not feel like entering a code. The DSC PT4 is small and compact, and you can easily store it inside your pocket, purse, or even inside your wallet. The device is very easy to use, as you can just hold it up to the proximity tag reader after it has been properly programmed.

There are some downsides to the DSC PT4 Proximity Tag that should be kept in mind. For, it only with compatible DSC Keypads that include a proximity tag reader. This restricts its use. The proximity tag has a built-in battery that must be replaced roughly every eight (8) years in order to continue working properly. The proximity tag should be treated as a user code, and losing it would be a security risk. Also consider that the DSC PT4 will take up a user code slot on the system. But these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from awarding the DSC PT4 a 5 Star score.

Good: Convenient, Small & Compact, Easy to Use

Bad: Limited Compatibility, Battery Requires Replacing, Losing PT4 is Security Risk, Requires Own User Code

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The 2GIG GCKIT311 is a discontinued security system kit from Alarm Grid. It included a 2GIG GC2 System, three (3) door and window contacts, a motion sensor, and a key fob. Notably absent from that list is a communicator, and you would need to add one separately to get the system monitored. Even when this kit was available, you would have just been better off getting a kit that included a cellular communicator, which is required for using the system with Alarm.com. Couple that with the fact that the 2GIG GC2 is a relatively older and outdated system, and we can only give the 2GIG GCKIT311 a 3 Star rating.

There are some positive aspects regarding the 2GIG GCKIT311. For one, the system can still be used for alarm monitoring if a compatible communicator is added. The included sensors are all of high quality, and they can still be used with a compatible system to this day. We also like the fact that the 2GIG GC2 System can be readily upgraded with different Z-Wave devices and compatible security sensors. Alarm Grid offers both AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE communicator options for the 2GIG GC2 System.

There are some downsides regarding the 2GIG GCKIT311 that should be kept in mind. For one, the system kit is discontinued, so you will no longer be able to purchase it from our website. Since no communicator is included, you will need to buy one separately to get the system monitored. While the GC2 still works fine, there are more advanced panels available, including the 2GIG GC3e, the Honeywell Lyric, and the 345 MHz Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. All of these systems will support the same sensors as the GC2, and more. With these downsides considered, we can only give the 2GIG GCKIT311 a 3 Star score.

Good: Usable for Monitoring if Communicator Added, Nice Sensors, Upgradable

Bad: Discontinued, No Communicator, More Advanced Panels Available

Bottom Line: 3 Stars

The Honeywell K14139 is the replaceable backup battery for use with various AlarmNet Communicators. This backup battery draws a very small amount of power from the communicator's main power supply so that it can stay charged in the event of a power outage. Once the power goes out, the communicator will automatically switch to the power from the Honeywell K14139 so that it can remain powered on. This is very important for ensuring successful alarm monitoring service. We think the Honeywell K14139 does a great job in its intended role, so we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Honeywell K14139. For one, it provides reliable power to a compatible communicator during an electrical outage. The battery is relatively compact, so you should be able to fit it nicely in the housing for the communicator. The battery has color-coded terminals so that you can easily observe polarity. This is very important when connecting a backup battery. The battery has a long lifespan, and it should provide backup power for your VISTA System's communicator for quite some time. It can be used nicely with any device that supports a 6-Volt, 3.1 Amp backup battery.

There are some downsides regarding the Honeywell K14139 Communicator Backup Battery that should be kept in mind. For one, it only has a limited useful product life, as it will eventually lose its ability to store a charge. Once this happens, the backup battery will need to be replaced with a new one. Also remember that it is specifically designed for use with Honeywell VISTA AlarmNet Cellular Communicators, and it may not work nicely with other devices. But these downsides are relatively minor, and they do not stop us from giving the Honeywell K14139 a 5 Star rating.

Good: Reliable, Compact, Color-Coded Terminals

Bad: Limited Lifespan, May Not Work w/ Non-VISTA Communicators

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

2-wire smoke detector zone. The unit is a photoelectric smoke detector, and its heat sensor offers both fixed temperature detection and rate of rise temperature detection. The fixed sensor will activate at 135 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and the rate of rise sensor requires a temperature increase of 15 degrees or higher in a single minute. The sensor has been discontinued, so it can no longer be purchased from Alarm Grid. But we still like this sensor if you are able to find it somewhere else. That is why we give the ESL 521BXT a 5 Star rating.

There are many things to like about the ESL 521BXT. For one, it offers both fixed temperature and rate of rise detection, which is good for ensuring that a fire is properly detected. Since this is a 2-wire smoke detector, you don't need any extra equipment, such as a relay and an external power supply. The smoke and heat detector is reliable, and it has a strong build quality. It is great for anyone with a compatible NetworX System looking to add fire detection. And we like the fact that this is a photoelectric smoke detector, as they are the most reliable.

There are some downsides to the ESL 521BXT that should be kept in mind. The smoke detector is discontinued, and it can no longer be purchased from Alarm Grid. As a 2-wire smoke, it can only be used at the designated 2-wire smoke zone on a NetworX Panel. It cannot be used at a different zone. Also remember that it can only be used with NetworX Panels. You will not be able to use this smoke detector on a different hardwired panel, such as a Honeywell VISTA Panel or a DSC PowerSeries Panel. But these downsides are relatively minor, so we still give the ESL 521BXT a 5 Star rating.

Good: Fixed & RoR Temperature Detection, Photoelectric, No Extra Equipment Needed, Reliable, Good Build Quality

Bad: Discontinued, Only Works @ Designated 2-Wire Smoke Zone, For NetworX Only

Bottom Line: 5 Stars