At one time, the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT was considered a great communicator for the Interlogix Networx Alarm Panels. But with the rise of LTE, this module is not recommended anymore. It is no longer possible to activate one of these communicators for alarm monitoring service. And if you already have one of these modules activated, it will only continue to work as long as the associated cellular network is kept in service. That is why we can only give the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT a Three (3) Star Rating.

A cellular communicator like the NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT allows an alarm system to communicate across a cellular network. This will ensure reliable monitoring service, as properly configured cellular connections almost never experience extended service outages. In the case of the NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT, the module works across the AT&T 3G Network. It also includes a built-in Z-Wave controller so that the user can start creating a home automation network around their system. The NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT can be used with the Interlogix Networx NX-4V2, NX-6V2, NX-8V2, and NX-8E Systems.

However, the AT&T 3G Network is in the process of being shutdown in favor of the newer and more advanced AT&T LTE Network. If you are getting a new cellular communicator for an alarm system, you should make sure that it is an LTE model. Fortunately, the Alarm.com NX-410-US-AT is compatible with the same systems as the NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT. Anyone considering the NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT should get the NX-410-US-AT instead. And if you already have an NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT activated, then you should understand that it will only continue to work as long as the AT&T 3G Network is kept in service. This network is expected to be shut down by the end of 2022. At that point, the communicator will no longer work. Additionally, as of June, 2019 you can no longer activate an NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT due to the 3G sunset.

Bottom line, the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT is a fine communicator. If you already have it activated, then it should continue to work for the time being. But if you are considering buying a communicator, make sure you get an LTE model instead. For that reason, we can only give the Interlogix NX-592E-GSM-ZX-AT a three-star rating.

The Interlogix 600-9400-IMAG-KIT is a fine image sensor combination kit that is ideal if you want to start using image sensors with your compatible Interlogix Alarm System. However, we generally find that Alarm.com Cameras work much more effectively than image sensors. But if you do decide that image sensors are right for you, then the one included in this kit works quite well. That is why we give it a four (4) star rating.

An image sensor basically consists of a still motion camera that is attached to a PIR motion sensor. Once the motion sensor detects movement, the attached camera will produce a quick photo and make it viewable from Alarm.com. The image can then be seen through the Alarm.com website or mobile app. The user can receive text and/or email alerts whenever an image is taken so that they know when to check for any suspicious activity. The resulting image will tell the user if something needs their attention, or if it was just a routine occurrence.

The Alarm.com Image Sensors produce decent images. They are not high resolution, but they are good enough for quickly identifying an emergency situation, such as a burglary or a fire. If you see something that is wrong, then you will know to call for help right away. This can be extremely useful if an emergency occurs while you are away from home. Many people living in Verified Response areas use image sensors to confirm intrusion and/or fire events so that proper dispatch can be requested.

Remember, you will also need to install the included Alarm.com Image Sensor Daughtercard to use this image sensor with your Interlogix System. This will require powering the panel down, and opening it up. The PIR motion sensor used with this image sensor works very well, as it offers a maximum coverage area of 35 feet by 40 feet. But keep in mind that you can get full-motion Alarm.com Security Cameras for the same monthly monitoring price as what is needed for an image sensor. Most users find that getting a camera is better for their needs.

Bottom line, image sensors are fine, and the Interlogix 600-9400-IMAG-KIT is exactly what you need if you want to start using an image sensor with your Interlogix Security System. But you might really consider going with security cameras instead. With that in mind, the Interlogix 600-9400-IMAG-KIT earns four stars.

NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED AT THE TIME OF THIS WRITING.

The Honeywell DT7435 is a fine dual-tech motion sensor. But it has since been discontinued in favor of newer and more advanced models. If you need a hardwired Dual Tec motion sensor, then there are better options to choose from.

As a dual-tech motion detecting sensor, the Honeywell DT7435 uses both microwave detection and passive infrared (PIR) detection when looking for movement. The sensor will only alert the system if both its microwave sensor and its PIR sensor are activated. This is great for preventing false alarms for environmental conditions that may activate a motion using a PIR-only sensor. These include air from heating vents, sunshine through windows onto objects in the room, and so on. By using a microwave sensor and PIR sensor together, you get a much more accurate motion detector.

While the DT7435 works fine as a dual-tech motion sensor, there are now better options available. That is why Honeywell decided to discontinue this model. If you are in the market for a new Honeywell Dual Tec Motion Sensor, then there are better options to choose from. These include the Honeywell DT7450, the Honeywell DT7450C, the Honeywell DT8035, and the Honeywell DT8050. These motion sensors all offer a superior coverage area over the DT7435, which only spans an area of 40 feet by 35 feet.

Although the pet immunity for animals weighing up to 100 pounds is an excellent feature of the Honeywell DT7435, that same pet immunity feature is matched by the Honeywell DT8035. Our technicians have found that pet immunity works just as well on both of these devices. So if pet immunity is of major importance for you, then you can just go with the DT8035 instead of the DT7435.

Bottom line, we cannot recommend the Honeywell DT7435. There are better hardwired dual-tech motions available.

NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED AT THE TIME OF THIS WRITING.

The Alarm.com ADC-V520IR has been discontinued. We recommend purchasing a newer, better camera for use with Alarm.com. That is why we give this product a 3 Star rating. However, if you have an existing ADC-V520IR, then you should still be able to use it without any issue. Users in the market for a new camera should look for a better option.

The first thing you will likely notice about the Alarm.com ADC-V520IR is its dated appearance. It looks more like a webcam you would use with a computer than a high-tech security camera for monitoring your home or business. This is one of the oldest cameras from Alarm.com, and its appearance shows that. If aesthetics are important to you, then you will probably find that almost any other Alarm.com Camera offers a more pleasing appearance.

As far as features go, the ADC-V520IR actually still holds up decently today. The camera offers a recording quality of up to 720p, which actually looks quite nice. Our technicians find that the night vision functions work quite well for capturing video in the dark. But there are many Alarm.com Cameras that will accomplish these tasks even better. One such camera is the ADC-V522IR. With the ADC-V522IR, you get a camera with a better recording capability of 1080p. You also get impressive IR night vision range of 15 feet. It also offers a very impressive viewing angle of 113 degrees. Our technicians all agree that it is the better camera in every aspect.

Another Alarm.com Camera that you can conveniently stand on a table or desk is the Alarm.com ADC-V622. This is a 1080p camera tower that offers offers a remarkable full 180 degree field of view to cover as large of an area as possible. The camera can connect with Alarm.com through either a wireless WIFI connection (2.4 or 5 GHz) or through a hardwired ethernet connection. You can even use Power over Ethernet with the ADC-V622 if you add a PoE injector. Its IR night vision works from up to 15 feet away in the dark. This is a good camera to use if you need a really wide viewing angle.

Bottom line, there are better cameras than the ADC-V520IR. Go with a camera like the ADC-V522IR or the ADC-V622 instead.

NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED AT THE TIME OF THIS WRITING.

The DSC TL880LTVZ has been discontinued. The replacement communicator is called the DSC TL880LTVZ N. We understand that these two product names can be easily confused. But just know that the DSC TL880LTVZ N is newer and offers improved performance. If you are looking for a dual-path Verizon LTE communicator for a DSC PowerSeries NEO, make sure you get the DSC TL880LTVZ N.

There are many advantages to adding a dual-path communicator to your alarm system. The module will provide fast and reliable connectivity for your system. Dual-path means that the communicator works across cellular and IP. An Alarm.com Dual-Path Communicator like the TL880LTVZ or the TL880LTVZ N will send out signals across both LTE and IP. In most cases, the IP signal will go through first. This is because IP is usually a little bit faster than cellular. But if the internet ever goes down, then it will be okay. The cellular connection will provide a trustworthy backup option for these situations. A good cellular connection is extremely reliable. It is virtually unheard of for cellular service to randomly go down or become unavailable for a significant period of time.

Our technicians have found that both the DSC TL880LTVZ and the DSC TL880LTVZ N both work quite well with a DSC PowerSeries NEO System. But as the DSC TL880LTVZ N is newer and offers better performance, that is the one to get. No new features have been added to the TL880LTVZ N from the TL880LTVZ, but all of the same great features have returned. This includes a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, and the ability to use Alarm.com to integrate your DSC PowerSeries NEO System with smart platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Bottom line, if you already have a DSC TL880LTVZ, then it will work fine, and there is no reason to upgrade. But if you are looking for a new communicator, get the DSC TL880LTVZ N instead.

We do not recommend the Qolsys IQ DW Standard. There are other sensors that perform the same job more effectively. If you already have an IQ DW Standard, then it will continue to work just fine. But if you are in the market for a new sensor, then we recommend looking elsewhere. That is why we give the IQ DW Standard a 3 Star rating.

The Qolsys IQ DW Standard is a wireless 319.5 MHz door and window contact sensor. It uses an internal reed switch and an accompanying magnet to let a system know whenever a door or window is opened. The sensor works with virtually any system that accepts the 319.5 MHz frequency. This includes the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2, the 319.5 MHz version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, and the Interlogix Security Systems. Any of these systems can support the IQ DW Standard. Our technicians have found that the IQ DW Standard is super easy to enroll.

For users who already have an IQ DW Standard, the sensor should continue to work just fine. But if you are looking for a new sensor, then there are some other ones you might want to consider. If you just need a standard, non-encrypted wireless sensor, then you should consider the VERSA-GE. This sensor operates at the same 319.5 MHz frequency, and it offers a better wireless range. This sensor is also sleeker and more compact, allowing you to achieve a better-looking installation. If you just need a regular, no-frill sensor, go with the VERSA-GE instead.

If you have an IQ Panel 2 or a 319.5 MHz IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you might also consider the Qolsys IQ DW MINI-S. This is an encrypted wireless sensor that will offer better security when compared with the Qolsys IQ DW Standard. As an encrypted sensor, the IQ DW MINI-S is virtually impossible for others to hack or takeover wirelessly. Just note that the IQ DW MINI-S will only utilize encryption on the aforementioned systems. As for the IQ DW Standard, it can potentially be beaten using a process called RF jamming. The IQ DW MINI-S is also smaller and more compact.

Bottom line, if you have an IQ DW Standard, then you can certainly keep using it. But if you are looking for a new sensor, consider your needs, and go with either the VERSA-GE or the IQ DW MINI-S.

NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED AT THE TIME OF THIS WRITING.

The 2GIG LTEV-A-GC3 has been discontinued and replaced by the 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3. Our technicians have found that the newer 2GIG LTEV1-A-GC3 works just as well as the 2GIG LTEV-A-GC3. However, the discontinued LTEV-A-GC3 was considerably more expensive than the LTEV1-A-GC3 ($149.99 vs $99.99). If you are looking for a new cellular communicator, then you should get the LTEV1-A-GC3 instead. But if you already have a 2GIG LTEV-A-GC3, then it will continue to work just fine.

Adding a cellular communicator to your 2GIG GC3 System is very important. This is the only way to get it connected with the Alarm.com Servers for monitoring service. Accessing Alarm.com will also allow you to control your system remotely. By accessing Alarm.com, you can arm and disarm your system, check current system status, control Z-Wave devices, and more. We have tested the Alarm.com platform on numerous occasions, and we find that it works extremely well.

It is also important to add that the general reliability of cellular monitoring service cannot be overstated. A good cellular connection will almost never go down or become unavailable. The same cannot be said for an IP connection, which may suddenly go down for seemingly no reason at all. By using cellular with your security system, you can help ensure that your home or business is always protected. This will give you the peace of mind that you deserve.

The 2GIG LTEV-A-GC3 connects with the Verizon LTE Network. Verizon has stated that they plan to support this network well into the very distant future. If you already have an LTEV-A-GC3 installed and activated, then you can continue to use it without issue. It will keep your GC3 or GC3e System monitored for many years to come. But if you want a newer Verizon LTE option, then go with the LTEV1-A-GC3 instead. You might also consider the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 AT&T LTE Communicator if you have better service from AT&T.

Bottom line, if you already have an LTEV-A-GC3, then don't feel like you need to replace it. But if you are looking for a new cellular communicator for a GC3 or GC3e, then go with either the LTEV1-A-GC3 or the LTEA-A-GC3 instead.

We think the System Sensor 4WT-B is a fine 4-wire smoke and heat detector. However, we encourage our customers who are considering wired smoke and heat detectors to purchase 2-wire devices instead. A 2-wire device will be much easier to set up, and it won't require any extra added equipment.

Adding smoke and heat detectors to your alarm system is an excellent idea. This is the best way you can be sure to receive an automatic emergency response from your local fire department when a fire occurs. You just need to have active central station alarm monitoring service and have smoke and heat detectors properly installed and enrolled with your security system. If you have an interactive monitoring service like Total Connect 2.0, you can also receive alerts regarding any activated smoke and heat detector.

If you have a hardwired system like a Honeywell VISTA System, then it is likely that you will be considering hardwired smoke and heat detectors. When it comes to hardwired smoke detectors for alarm systems, there are two options to choose from. These are 2-wire devices and 4-wire devices. We recommend using 2-wire devices. They are easier to install, and they do not need extra equipment. The only reason to choose a 4-wire smoke detector is that you can use it at any hardwired zone.

When setting up a 4-wire smoke detector, you need more than just the detector itself. You will also need a relay to supervise the smoke detector's power supply, as well as an external power relay that can cut power to the sensor when an alarm is cleared. You may also need an external power supply if your system cannot supply enough power on its own. As for a 2-wire smoke detector, no extra equipment is needed. The only rule with a 2-wire smoke detector is that you must use the device at a designated 2-wire smoke zone that the system will know to automatically reset when an alarm is cleared. For a VISTA System, this is Zone 1. You can wire multiple 2-wire smoke detectors to this zone in parallel.

You really should only go with the System Sensor 4WT-B if you need a 4-wire smoke and heat detector that can be used at any zone. For most users, it just makes more sense to go with 2-wire smoke and heat detectors and use them at the properly designated zone. If you are looking for a good 2-wire smoke detector to use with your Honeywell VISTA System, then the System Sensor 2WT-B is a great option.

As far as the performance is concerned, the 4WT-B works great. Our technicians have found that the 4-wire device responds reliably to smoke and high temperatures in excess of 135 degrees Fahrenheit. This really is a perfectly capable smoke detector. It's just that we recommend going with a 2-wire device instead. We also want to mention that the 4WT-B does not include a built-in sounder. If you want your hardwired smoke and heat detector to include a built-in sounder, you should consider the System Sensor 4WTA-B or the System Sensor 2WTA-B instead.

Bottom line, the System Sensor 4WT-B is a great 4-wire smoke detector. But most DIY users will find that they will have a much easier time going with a 2-wire equivalent. If you are looking for a new hardwired smoke detector, try and see if you can go with a 2-wire device instead. The System Sensor 2WT-B is probably your best option. Additionally, you might also strongly consider the System Sensor 2WTA-B. The System Sensor 2WTA-B is our favorite hardwired smoke and heat sensor, as it uses a 2-wire configuration, and it has a built-in sounder.

We do not recommend the Interlogix 600-6520-95 as a wireless carbon monoxide sensor. There are other wireless carbon monoxide sensors that do the same job at a lower cost. There is no reason to shell out the extra money for the Interlogix 600-6520-95 when there are other devices that are more cost-effective. That is why we give the Interlogix 600-6520-95 only 3 Stars.

Investing in carbon monoxide detectors for your home or business is an excellent idea. CO gas is odorless and tasteless, and it kills hundreds of people every single year. You should take every precaution possible to ensure that this does not happen to you, your employees, or your family. That is why you will absolutely want reliable and trustworthy carbon monoxide sensors. Some of the best places to put these sensors include in hallways, outside of sleeping areas, and in large central locations like living rooms.

While carbon monoxide sensors are very important, you should not overspend to get them. You should get the most affordable carbon monoxide sensor that is compatible with your system and provides accurate detection of CO gas. That is not the Interlogix 600-6520-95. Our technicians find that the Interlogix 600-6520-95 works very well, and it responds reliably to CO gas. But if you are looking for a new CO sensor, then there are other options to consider. These other options work just as effectively, and they can be obtained at a lower cost. Also remember that CO detectors have a limited product life. Once an Interlogix 600-6520-95 reaches its end-of-product-life (7 years), it will need to be replaced. At that point, you should replace it with a more affordable sensor. There is no reason to buy another Interlogix 600-6520-95.

The main product to consider over the Interlogix 600-6520-95 is the Qolsys IQ Carbon. This sensor also operates at the same 319.5 MHz frequency, so it will work with the same systems. This includes the Interlogix Simon Panels, the original Qolsys IQ Panel 2, and the 319.5 MHz version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. However, the IQ Carbon can be obtained at a lower cost. If you have an IQ Panel 2 Plus, you might also consider the DSC PG9933. The PG9933 uses wireless encryption for added security. The PG9933 will work with any version of the IQ Panel 2 Plus, but it will NOT work with the original IQ Panel 2, nor the Interlogix Simon Panels.

Bottom line, if you already have an Interlogix 600-6520-95, then it should continue to work fine until it reaches its end of life. But if you are looking for a new CO sensor, then go with a different one that is compatible with your system.

NOTE: THIS PRODUCT IS DISCONTINUED AT THE TIME OF THIS WRITING.

This product has been discontinued and replaced by the Honeywell 5819S. You should find that the Honeywell 5819S is better in ever possible aspect. If you have an existing Honeywell 5819 Wireless Shock Processor and Transmitter, then it will still work just fine. But if you are in the market for a new device, make sure to get the Honeywell 5819S. There is no reason to buy the Honeywell 5819 when the 5819S beats it in every category.

The biggest benefit that the Honeywell 5819S has over the Honeywell 5819 is that the 5819S is a shock sensor, while the 5819 is just a shock processor. This means that you actually need to connect a hardwired shock sensor to the 5819 to achieve shock-detection function. The 5819 itself is not a shock sensor. But the 5819S does include built-in shock detection. This means that you can use it as a shock sensor on its own, with no additional hardware being needed. Our technicians have found that the 5819S works very reliably as a shock sensor. In fact, our team has found that the 5819S works more reliably than the 5819 with a wired shock sensor.

Returning to the 5819S from the 5819 is the ability to use the sensor as a wireless door and window contact. This is done by programming the sensor with Loop Number 2. You will need a separate magnet to use with the sensor, as no magnet is included with these products. We have found that this function works just as well on the 5819S as it does on the 5819. Both the 5819 and the 5819S have a third programmable loop that allows the sensor to be used as a wireless transmitter for a single Normally Closed (NC) hardwired contact. Again, this feature works just as well on the 5819S as it does on the 5819.

Bottom line, the 5819S works just as well or better in every aspect when compared with the 5819. If you are considering getting the 5819, just get the 5819S instead. There is no reason to choose the 5819 over the 5819S.