The Macurco GD-2A is a hardwired natural gas and propane detector. This sensor is designed to detect gas leaks that could result in issues if left unattended. We have found that the Macurco GD-2A sensor works very reliably in detecting gas leaks, which can be very important in preventing fires and wasted energy expenses. The sensor is great for those who want to monitor for propane or natural gas leaks that may occur. It offers some nice benefits, but there are some usage considerations that must be kept in mind. Overall, we really like this sensor, and we give it a 5-Star rating.

The biggest benefit of the Macurco GD-2A is that it provides a solution for monitoring for gas leaks. Propane and natural gas leak detectors are not the most commonly used sensors, so it is good to see that there is a nice option available, even if it is a hardwired sensor. You can easily mount the sensor based on the types of leaks you are trying to detect, and it's really nice that the sensor has different mounting options available. We also like the fact that all of the necessary mounting hardware comes included. Since this device is Form C, it can be set up with a NO or NC wiring configuration. Other benefits for the sensor include its built-in LED status light and the device's integrated switch for testing and silencing the sensor. Lastly, we appreciate the fact that this sensor has a built-in buzzer for providing audible alerts when activated.

There are some downsides to the Macurco GD-2A that should be kept in mind. For one, it is for indoor use only, and it cannot be used safely in an outdoor environment. Since the module has a power draw of 70 mA, you will need to make sure your system can supply sufficient power to the sensor. Really, 70 mA is not a large amount of power, but it can make adding this sensor a bit more challenging than a non-powered device, such as a door and window contact sensor. One other very important thing to keep in mind is that this sensor only has a useful product life of 10 years. After that, it will need to be replaced with a new unit.

We are very satisfied with the Macurco GD-2A, and we think it is a great option for anyone who needs a hardwired gas leak detector. That is why this product earns 5 Stars from Alarm Grid.

Good: Monitors for Gas Leaks, Different Mounting Options, Mounting Hardware Included, Form C, Built-In Status LED Light, Integrated Testing/Silencing Switch, Built-In Buzzer

Bad: Indoor Use Only, Draws Power, 10 Year Product Life

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The DSC AC-500 is a hardwired ceiling-mount glass break detection sensor that can reliably monitor windows and protective glass casings. It works with a wide variety of glass types, and the sensor offers some nice features to help ensure effective operation. This is a really nice wired glass break sensor option that provides a great solution for many users. It has many positive aspects, with relatively few downsides. That is why we give the DSC AC-500 Glass Break Sensor a 5 Star rating.

There are quite a few things we like about the DSC AC-500. For one, it has an omni-directional microphone that allows it to detect glass break events from any direction. We also like the fact that the sensor has a nice listening range, as it can detect glass breaking sounds from up to 25 feet away. You can even use it to monitor multiple windows and/or glass casings if the device is placed strategically. And we really appreciate the fact that this sensor can be used with multiple types of glass, including plate glass, float glass, tempered glass, wired glass, and laminated glass.

There are relatively few downsides associated with the DSC AC-500. Its biggest issue is that it needs a direct line of sight to the glass it is monitoring. This is a fairly standard requirement for glass break sensors, but it is still something you will want to keep in mind when using this sensor. Another downside is that as a wired sensor, it will need to be installed and physically connected with the panel. This may present some challenges for DIY installers who are not very adept at using tools or running wires. Still, these are relatively minor downsides. All things considered, we have no issue giving the DSC AC-500 5 Stars.

Good: Omni-Directional Microphone, Good Listening Range, Can Monitor Multiple Windows/Casings, Works w/ Many Types of Glass

Bad: Needs Direct Line of Sight, Must Be Installed, Wires Must Be Run

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell 4120TR Trigger Cable is used for completing trigger connections, such as setting up power relays for use with wired security systems. This cable makes it easy to complete these connections, and it can really come in handy when configuring devices that use harnesses for wiring. It was originally designed for use with the Honeywell 4120XM Wired Alarm Control Panel, but the device can still be used quite nicely with nearly any hardwired Honeywell System that uses a trigger cable with a keyed header. This most notably includes the Vista-20P, Vista-21iP, and Vista-15P panels. Overall, this is a great trigger cable accessory, and we have no problem giving it a 5-Star rating.

The biggest thing we like about the Honeywell 4120TR is that it makes it easy to complete trigger connections. By using this trigger cable, you can save yourself some tedious wiring. This cable is also quite versatile, as you can expect to use it well with nearly any connection that relies on a wiring harness. And nearly any hardwired Honeywell Panel will support it. This makes it a great option in many situations. It is often a good idea to keep some of these trigger cables around if you are regularly setting up triggered devices on hardwired Honeywell Systems.

There are not many downsides to the Honeywell 4120TR. Its biggest limitation is that it is not very frequently used, as more people are switching over to wireless systems. The need for a trigger cable for wired devices using connecting harnesses has diminished greatly with the rise of wireless panels and accessories. Still, the Honeywell 4120TR has stood the test of time, and it is still a good trigger cable to use in many applications. It gets 5 Stars from us.

Good: Easy Connecting, Versatile, Works w/ Many Systems and Wired Relay Devices

Bad: Not Frequently Needed, Model Has Been Around for Awhile

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Go Control GC-TBZ48 is a smart Z-Wave thermostat. It is a relatively basic thermostat model, as it only has a 7-character scrolling display for programming, and it only uses classic Z-Wave, as opposed to Z-Wave Plus. The model can be run on battery power without the use of a C-wire, but doing so will make it impossible for the device to repeat other Z-Wave signals for strengthening the mesh network. But you can still use a C-wire if desired. Overall, this is a fine Z-Wave thermostat, but there are many newer and more advanced models available, including some that have much cleaner user interfaces. For that reason, we only give the Go Control GC-TBZ48 a 4 Star rating.

There are some key aspects we like about the Go Control GC-TBZ48. For one, the option to use the unit without a C-wire is a nice touch, even if it eliminates the device's function as a Z-Wave repeater. Being able to power the device using four (4) AA batteries can really be a nice alternative if connecting a C-wire is not feasible. We also like the fact that the unit is compatible with nearly any Z-Wave controller or hub. This makes the thermostat quite versatile and able to connect with a number of different systems.

There are some downsides to the Go Control GC-TBZ48. One downside is that using the device on battery power without a C-wire will eliminate the device's Z-Wave signal repeating capabilities. We are not fans of the device's 7-character scrolling for programming, as we feel there are much cleaner UI options available that are easier to understand. And we don't like the fact that this thermostat uses standard Z-Wave instead of Z-Wave Plus. Because of these limitations, we give this product only 4 Stars.

Good: Can Be Used w/o C-Wire, Battery Power Option, Works w/ Nearly Any Z-wave Controller

Bad: Battery Power Eliminates Function as Z-Wave Repeater, 7-Character Scrolling for Programming, Cleaner UI Options Exist, Standard Z-Wave

Bottom Line: 4 Stars

The Arlo VMB4000 is the certified refurbished version of the Arlo Base Station. It works with any Arlo, Arlo Pro, or Arlo Pro 2 Camera, and it can support up to five (5) cameras in total. These cameras require an Arlo Base Station, and getting a refurbished model can be a great way to save some money. This module also allows for local storage through a USB drive, which can be very useful if you are looking for a convenient storage option for these cameras. However, you will need to use the Arlo App with this hub. Overall, we think the refurbished Arlo Base Station works great, and we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many things we like about the Arlo VMB4000. Buying the refurbished model instead of the new model can be a great way to save money. We like the fact that the hub allows for local storage through a USB drive, as this provides an easy way to store captured footage. The fact that you can use up to five (5) cameras with the Base Station means that one module can likely support your entire camera setup. Just one Base Station will likely be all you need to start buying and setting up new Arlo Cameras. And there is a solid selection of Arlo Cameras you can use with the unit.

There aren't many downsides to the Arlo VMB4000. The device requires the use of the Arlo App. While we don't necessarily have any problems with the Arlo App, some users might not appreciate the lack of alternative options available. Also, some users might not like the fact that this hub is refurbished, and they may feel more comfortable buying the new model. Still, if you are looking to save money, then this refurbished Arlo Base Station can be a really nice selection. We give this product 5 Stars.

Good: Save Money w/ Refurbished, Local USB Drive Storage, Supports 5 Cameras, Multiple Arlo Camera Options

Bad: Requires Arlo App, Some Users May Want New Model

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell L7000DM is the desk mount for the Honeywell LYNX Touch L7000 System. It cannot be used with the other LYNX Touch Systems, including the L5100, L5200, and L5210. It is exclusively for the L7000. The L7000DM will keep an L7000 System nice and sturdy, without needing to mount it to any wall. The device is very easy to use, as it simply snaps onto the panel. It is a great option for users who cannot mount the L7000 to the wall, as well as users looking to make their installation as quick and as easy as possible without needing to use any tools. We highly recommend the Honeywell L7000DM as a desk mount for L7000 users. We give the product a 5-Star rating.

The positive aspects of the Honeywell L7000DM are easy to understand. The device keeps an L7000 upright at a good viewing angle on a table or desk, which is preferable to just having the panel lay flat on a desk or table. You do not need any tools to start using the L7000DM, which makes it perfect for DIY users who are looking to complete their own system installation without any help from an installer. The L7000DM reliably keeps an L7000 Panel upright and sturdy, and you will not need to worry about the panel falling over. And you won't need to drill any holes in your wall!

There are not many downsides to the Honeywell L7000DM. Its biggest criticism is that it is not very versatile. It can only be used with the L7000 System, and it will not work with any of the other LYNX Touch Panels. But if you need a desk mount for an L7000, then this is the one to get. This product gets a 5-Star rating from Alarm Grid.

Good: Keeps L7000 Upright & Sturdy, Snaps Into Place, No Tools Required, No Holes in Wall

Bad: L7000 Only

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell CELL-ANTSMA is an indoor/outdoor cellular antenna for Honeywell VISTA and LYNX Touch Systems that use cellular communication. The antenna works with both 3G and LTE communicators for these systems. As a low-profile antenna, the CELL-ANTSMA will provide a moderate boost in signal strength for users who live in areas where cellular connectivity is not readily available. However, users requiring something more powerful may need to use a CELL-ANT3DB instead. But users with a compatible system who only need a minor to moderate cellular boost can get great results out of the Honeywell CELL-ANTSMA. We give this product a 5 Star rating due to its good versatility and strong performance overall.

We have many things we like about the Honeywell CELL-ANTSMA. For one, the device is very versatile, as it can be used with nearly any cellular communicator for a Honeywell VISTA or LYNX Touch Security System. The device is fairly easy to mount, and it can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. We find that it provides a decent signal boost for maintaining reliable connectivity with the AlarmNet360 Servers. This can be very important for maintaining reliable monitoring service. Also, all the mounting hardware comes included.

But there are some downsides to the Honeywell CELL-ANTSMA that should also be considered. For one, the CELL-ANTSMA Antenna is fixed at a length of three (3) meters, and it cannot be adjusted. Second, the CELL-ANTSMA may not provide enough of a signal boost for users living in areas extremely far from any cellular towers. These users may need to get something stronger, like the CELL-ANT3DB. Another downside is that the CELL-ANTSMA cannot be used with the communicators for the Honeywell Lyric Alarm System, which is one of Honeywell's most popular systems.

Overall, we like the CELL-ANTSMA quite a bit for users who have compatible systems and only need a minor to moderate boost in signal. It gets 5 Stars from us.

Good: Works w/ VISTA & LYNX Touch, Easy to Mount, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Decent Signal Boost, Mounting Hardware Included

Bad: Fixed Length, Stronger Antennas Available, Does Not Work w/ Lyric

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Qolsys IQ Panel Rogers is the Rogers version of the original Qolsys IQ Panel Security System. As it uses a Rogers Communicator for connecting with the Alarm.com Servers, this panel can only be used in Canada for alarm monitoring service. The original IQ Panel made some great strides for Qolsys, as it introduced a touchscreen controller, Z-Wave functionality, and end user programming. It also paved the way for future Qolsys Systems, most notably the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus and the upcoming Qolsys IQ Hub. However, the original IQ Panel is quite dated by today's standards, and we wouldn't really recommend it for those who are starting new alarm monitoring service. Additionally, users with an existing IQ Panel may want to upgrade to the newer IQ Panel 2 to take advantage of the features offered by that system. Overall, the Qolsys IQ Panel Rogers is a fine system, but better options are available. It gets 4 Stars from us.

Some positive aspects for the Qolsys IQ Panel Rogers include its touchscreen controller, its home automation functions, and its ability to be used with the Alarm.com platform. The panel is reliable as far as monitoring service is concerned, and it can still be used to this day. The Rogers version of the IQ Panel represents a good monitoring solution for those in Canada. We also like the panel's built-in camera, which can be used for disarm photos. And the panel features WIFI connectivity for maintaining an additional communication path with Alarm.com. Local Bluetooth connectivity is available as well. We also like the fact that wireless 319.5 MHz sensors can be auto-enrolled with the system.

But there are downsides to the Qolsys IQ Panel Rogers as well. It is an old system, and many users would describe it as a "brick". Compared with sleeker systems like the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and the Honeywell Lyric Controller, the original Qolsys IQ Panel sticks out like a sore thumb. It also uses classic Z-Wave technology, as opposed to Z-Wave Plus. And the original IQ Panel can only support up to 75 Z-Wave devices, as opposed to the usual limit of 232. This makes it somewhat limited as an automation controller. Another important consideration is that the panel has been known to be somewhat glitchy, as Qolsys didn't really fix all of the bugs until the newer IQ Panel 2. Finally, the panel will not work outside of Cananda, as it needs to connect with the Rogers Cellular Network.

We wouldn't really recommend the Qolsys IQ Panel if you are buying a new security system. If you inherit an old model from someone, then it might be worth using. Otherwise, there are better options available. Still, it's a decent enough system to get a 4 Star rating.

Good: Touchscreen Controller, Home Automation, Alarm.com, Fairly Reliable, Use In Canada, Built-In Camera, WIFI, Bluetooth, Auto-Enroll 319.5 MHz Sensors

Bad: Large "Brick" Panel, Classic Z-Wave, Limit of 75 Z-Wave Devices, Glitchy, Canada Only

Bottom Line: 4 Stars

The Kwikset 910 is a Z-Wave Plus smart deadbolt lock with a push-button keypad for code entry. The lock comes in three (3) different finishing options, and it can be used nicely with nearly any front door. It is a simple, yet effective lock that serves many users quite well. However, the lock has since been discontinued in favor of the newer Kwikset 914. However, the Kwikset 910 should still work just fine if you find a used model somewhere. Overall, we really like the Kwikset 910, and we give it a 5 Star rating.

There are many positive aspects regarding the Kwikset 910. The first is that it uses Z-Wave Plus technology when paired with a compatible Z-Wave Plus controller or hub. This allows the lock to utilize extended wireless range and improves battery life when compared with classic Z-Wave devices. You can control the lock remotely using an interactive platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com, and you can also include the lock with Z-Wave smart scenes for automatic operation. The lock is extremely secure, and it will keep unauthorized individuals out of your home or business. We also like the push-button keypad, which allows for entry without needing to use a key. But having the traditional key-entry option available is a nice touch if you want to use a key for entry. We also like the lock's design.

There aren't many negatives to the Kwikset 910. Its biggest downfall is that it has been discontinued, and it can no longer be purchased new. But like we said earlier, the lock should still work well if you find a used model somewhere. Also the lock has to be physically installed, which might be difficult for DIY users who aren't very handy with tools. But as far as locks are concerned, this one is fairly easy to install. We think the Kwikset 910 is a great door lock, and it gets 5 Stars from us.

Good: Z-Wave Plus, Secure, Push-Button Keypad, Traditional Key Entry Option, Great Design

Bad: Discontinued, Must Be Installed

Bottom Line: 5 Stars

The Honeywell CR2025 is a lithium 3V coin battery in the CR2025 size. The battery can be used with nearly any electronic device that uses the CR2025 size. Not many security and life-safety sensors use CR2025 batteries. When it comes to coin batteries, the CR2032 size is much more commonly used, especially in the security and alarm monitoring industry. However, the CR2025 is rarely seen. But if you happen to have a device that uses CR2025 batteries, then the Honeywell CR2025 will work great. This is true even for devices that aren't necessarily used for alarm monitoring or security. We give the Honeywell CR2025 Coin Battery a perfect 5-Star rating.

There are many things we like about the Honeywell CR2025. First and foremost, it can be used with any device that uses CR2025 batteries. This makes it extremely versatile, as you do not necessarily need to use it with your alarm monitoring equipment. As a lithium battery, the Honeywell CR2025 offers an extremely long product life, especially when compared with most alkaline batteries. This will reduce the number of battery changes and replacements you need to make. We also like the fact that this battery is weather-resistant. This means that you should not experience any issues when using this battery in outdoor equipment and accessories.

There aren't any real downsides to the Honeywell CR2025. The biggest issue we can think of is that the CR2025 size isn't very commonly used. Some users may mistake this battery for the thicker CR2032. Although we have heard of CR2025 batteries being used to power devices that are supposed to use CR2032 batteries, this will leave the CR2025 battery somewhat loose in the device, and you may experience issues as a result. Make sure to only use CR2025 batteries with devices designed to support them. Overall, the Honeywell CR2025 is a great battery, and we give it 5 Stars.

Good: Used w/ Any Device that Supports CR2025, Lithium Battery, Weather-Resistant

Bad: CR2025 Size is Uncommon, May be Mistaken for CR2032

Bottom Line: 5 Stars