We do not recommend the Honeywell CELL-EXTRA CDMA Cellular Antenna. This antenna will only work with CDMA communicators on Honeywell Panels. If you are still using a CDMA communicator, you should upgrade to a Verizon LTE Communicator instead. You may find that you get stronger signals from the Verizon LTE Network, thereby eliminating the need for an antenna in the first place. And even if you don't and you still need an antenna, you will eventually have to upgrade to LTE in the near future anyway. You may as well do it now.

Verizon is in the process of shutting down their CDMA Network. You can no longer activate CDMA communicators for use with AlarmNet and Total Connect 2.0. And once the CDMA network is shut down, all CDMA communicators will no longer function. Verizon has not publicly stated a date for when their CDMA network will be put out of service, but we do know that it will be within the next few years. Once that happens, the only way to keep using your current alarm system for cellular monitoring service is to upgrade to an LTE communicator.

There is very little point in buying a cellular antenna that will only work with the CDMA network. Although the Honeywell CELL-EXTRA CDMA works great with CDMA communicators, it is not compatible with the newer LTE communicators. The Honeywell CELL-EXTRA will only help you for a short period of time before the associated CDMA network is shut down permanently. You should just go ahead and upgrade to an LTE communicator right now. You may find that the LTE communicator provides a stronger and more reliable connection than your current CDMA communicator.

LTE networks are more powerful than their CDMA and 3G predecessors. Our technicians have encountered many situations where users who upgrade to LTE modules have stronger cellular signals as a result. In some cases, this can eliminate the need for using an antenna to boost the cell signals. You may indeed find that this is the case when you upgrade to LTE. Even if you don't get stronger signals, at least you will have a long-term solution for your panel. You can then get an LTE antenna or cellular amplifier if necessary. A good LTE-compatible antenna to use for this purpose is the Honeywell CELL-ANT3DB Weatherproof Antenna. If you don't need an outdoor antenna with that much power, the Honeywell CELL-ANTSMA and the Honeywell CELL-ANTU are more affordable indoor models. You can also go the cellular amplifier route to boost the signals for all the compatible devices in your household. A good cellular amplifier to use is the WeBoost 470101.

Bottom line, do not get the Honeywell CELL-EXTRA. Try upgrading to a Verizon LTE Communicator first. You will have to do that anyway soon, and you may find that it boosts your signals enough so that no antenna is needed. If you do still need an antenna, you can then get one of the LTE-compatible options.

We do not recommend the 2GIG ANT3X. This is because it works with older cellular networks like 3G and CDMA. It does not work with newer LTE networks. If you haven't upgraded to an LTE communicator for your 2GIG GC2 or 2GIG GC3 System yet, now is the time to do so. The 3G and CDMA networks will be discontinued in the next few years. Once that happens, your older communicator will no longer work.

The 2GIG ANT3X is an antenna designed for use with a 3G or CDMA communicator on a GC2 or GC3 System. People use antennas like this one because they do not have strong enough cellular signal for their system to communicate properly otherwise. However, many users will find that they get strong signals with LTE communicators. This is because the LTE cellular networks are more powerful and more reliable than their predecessors. In many cases, you can actually use an LTE communicator in place of a 3G or CDMA communicator and get strong enough signals so that no cellular antenna or amplifier is needed. This isn't always the case, but it's worth trying before you go out and buy an antenna that will only work with a communicator that you will need to replace in a few years anyway.

If you are currently using a 3G or CDMA communicator with your 2GIG System, then you should get an LTE communicator first and foremost. If you still need to get an antenna or amplifier, then so be it. But at least you will be "future-proofing" your system and making it compatible for alarm monitoring for the long run by going with LTE. If you decide that you still need an antenna for your LTE communicator, then the 2GIG ANT5XL-GC2 is great for GC2 Systems, while the 2GIG ANT5XL-GC3 is built for GC3 Systems. Alternatively, you might consider getting a cellular amplifier, as one of those modules will boost the cell signals for every compatible device in your household. We recommend the WeBoost 470101 4G LTE Cellular Amplifier for this purpose.

Bottom line, do not waste your money on a 3G antenna like the 2GIG ANT3X. Start by upgrading to LTE. If you still need an antenna or amplifier, you can get an LTE model.

We strongly recommend the Honeywell IS3050A PIR Motion Sensor. This device does exactly what it needs to as a hardwired motion sensor. It offers a large detection area of 53 feet by 72 feet when mounted from a height of 7.5 feet high. It also offers anti-mask detection to let the system know if someone tries to defeat the motion sensor by using reflective materials or by applying a substance to the lens.

Like most motion sensors the Honeywell IS3050A uses passive infrared (PIR) technology to detect movement. This involves looking for the changes in infrared (IR) energy to occur when a person or large object comes into the sensor's field of view. Our technicians find that this technology works very reliably for motion detection, and the Honeywell IS3050A performs as a trustworthy motion detection sensor when used correctly. As long as you mount the sensor properly, you should find that it responds accurately to true motion events and that it does not cause false system alarms.

What really helps the Honeywell IS3050A is its anti-making capabilities. A smart intruder might know that they can beat most motion sensors by applying a substance to the lens or using a reflective material. A common practice is to apply various substances to the motion sensor so that it does not detect movement properly. This is often done in retail outlets where an intruder can discreetly do this to a motion sensor without anyone noticing. If they do this to the IS3050A, then a trouble condition will appear on the system. This is because the IS3050A indicates a trouble whenever various substances or reflective objects are placed within two (2) inches of the front of the sensor. Our technicians find that the anti-masking feature works very well, and it can certainly be useful in many situations.

Bottom line, we definitely recommend the Honeywell IS3050A as a hardwired motion detection sensor. It is a great sensor, and it will serve your home or business well.

We do not recommend the Honeywell GSMX4G-TC2. This product has since been replaced by the Honeywell LTEXA-TC2. The GSMX4G-TC2 includes both a GSMX4G AT&T 3G Communicator and the latest PROM Chip upgrades for VISTA 15P and 20P Panels. While the PROM Chips are still good, the GSMX4G can no longer be activated with the 3G Sunset. As a result, it makes no sense to purchase this kit. You should get the LTEXA-TC2 instead. That kit includes the latest PROM Chips and the newer communicator.

The AT&T 3G Network used with the Honeywell GSMX4G-TC2 is going to be shut down in the next few years. As a result, the carrier no longer allows activations for 3G models like the Honeywell GSMX4G. In our experience, users in areas with strong service from AT&T should find that an AT&T LTE Communicator will work even better than an AT&T GSM Communicator. The AT&T LTE Network is superior in virtually every way, and it should provide faster and more reliable connectivity. There really is no reason to get a GSMX4G or its associated GSMX4G-TC2 Kit when you can just get the newer equivalent. You should find that the LTE-XA or LTEXA-TC2 works better in every aspect.

LTE stands for Long Term Evolution. Cellular service providers have stated that they plan to support their LTE Networks for many years to come. By getting an LTE communicator like the LTE-XA or LTEXA-TC2, you are "future-proofing" your VISTA System so that it can be used for alarm monitoring for many years to come. Anyone looking for a new cellular communicator should make sure to get an LTE model. Additionally, Honeywell is expected to offer a dual-path LTE/IP option called the LTE-IA in the near future. There is already a Verizon dual-path option with the LTE-IV, and the LTE-IA should serve as the AT&T LTE equivalent. There are PROM Chip upgrade kits available for these dual-path communicators as well.

Bottom line, do not get the GSMX4G-TC2. Get the LTEXA-TC2 or one of the other LTE options instead.

We strongly recommend the Interlogix GE 600-1053-LTE-VZ Alarm.com Verizon LTE Cellular Communicator for the Concord 4 System. If you are looking for a cellular communicator for a Concord 4 System, then this is a great option. This device communicates with the Verizon LTE Network, so anyone with good Verizon coverage can receive excellent benefits from this communicator. And with Z-Wave functionality, you can start building a smart home network around your Concord 4 System once you add this communicator.

Now, that does not mean that everyone with a Concord 4 System should use this module. If you have better coverage from AT&T in your area, then you should use the Interlogix GE 600-1053-LTE-AT instead. Additionally, there are also dual-path options available with the Alarm.com CD-410-US-AT AT&T LTE and IP Dual-Path Communicator and the Alarm.com CD-410-US-VZ Verizon LTE and IP Dual-Path Communicator. The only real reason to get an LTE-only communicator if you have a Concord 4 is if you don't have internet in your home. However, we know that many people who want alarm systems don't have internet access. For those users with strong access to the Verizon LTE network, the Interlogix GE 600-1053-LTE-VZ is the best option.

Our technicians also love the fact that this module is an LTE communicator. LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution", and Verizon has stated that they will support their LTE network well into the very distant future. Even as older networks are shut down, the Verizon LTE Network will still remain in service. By using the Interlogix GE 600-1053-LTE-VZ, you are providing an effective long-term solution for your Concord 4 System to remain monitored for many years to come.

Bottom line, this is the best communicator to use with a Concord 4 System if you have better Verizon service than AT&T service, and you also don't benefit from IP connectivity. Since this is a legitimate niche, we are giving this product 5 Stars. Just be aware that if you have internet access in your home, you probably want to go with one of the dual-path communicators instead.

We strongly recommend the Qolsys IQ Power Supply as a replacement transformer for the original Qolsys IQ Panel. This is the best transformer to purchase if you have lost or damaged the original stock transformer that came with your IQ Panel System. Remember that the system already comes with this same transformer included in the box. You only need to buy this transformer if you must replace that original one. But if that is your situation, then this is an excellent transformer. It is super easy to connect wires to the appropriate power terminals. The transformer plugs into a wall outlet very nicely.

Our team has verified that this transformer provides a consistent source of 12VDC power. When using a DC transformer like the Qolsys IQ Power Supply QR0017-840, you must make sure to follow proper polarity. This means that the negative (-) terminal on the transformer must connect with the negative power input on the panel. Meanwhile, the positive (+) on the transformer must connect with the positive power input on the panel. The common practice is to use black for negative (-) and red for positive (+). But it really doesn't matter what colors you use, as long as everything is consistent.

One limitation of this transformer is how long of wire runs it will support. Alarm Grid generally recommends using 18-gauge wire for most alarm system installations. By using 18-AWG wire, you can have a maximum run distance of 25 feet from the panel when using this transformer. If you need to achieve a longer wire run, then you can always use thicker wire. Remember, the lower the gauge, the thicker the wire. You might also consider using a Honeywell LT-Cable with the Qolsys IQ Power Supply Transformer. The LT-Cable comes pre-prepared, meaning that you won't have to strip any wires. You will just need a screwdriver to connect the cable to the terminals.

We strongly recommend the Ademco SA5140-1 for anyone who wants to use a second backup battery with their Honeywell VISTA Alarm System. This convenient and easy to us wiring harness will allow you to connect two (2) backup batteries with the panel by wiring them in parallel. This will effectively double the battery life for the system. This is perfect for users who may experience frequent electrical outages. It is also great for users who want to ensure that their VISTA Panel will remain powered on for an extended period of time when the electricity is out, without having to rely on a power generator. Another excellent feature of this harness is that its positive legs have an inline fuse to prevent damage in case of a power surge.

Our technicians have found that it is easy to use the UltraTech 1240 4Ah Batteries and the UltraTech 1270 7Ah Batteries with the Ademco SA5140-1 Battery Harness. However, you should have no problem using this device with any of the similar sealed lead acid batteries that are compatible with hardwired alarm systems. Just be aware that you may have trouble fitting multiple batteries into your panel's metal enclosure. This will depend on the size of the metal enclosure and the size of the batteries. If that is the case you can always get a second enclosure to secure the batteries. Just make sure that the batteries are wired correctly at the panel in parallel.

Overall, the Ademco SA5140-1 is a great product. While it's not going to be useful for every VISTA user, those who can benefit from a second battery can put this accessory to great use. We believe that this is a fine battery harness to use with your Honeywell VISTA Panel if you intend on using two (2) separate backup batteries. Just be aware that it will take slightly longer for your batteries to obtain a full charge, as more power will need to be stored.

We do not recommend the 2GIG GC3PK-GC3 System Kit. This kit does not include an Alarm.com Communicator. As a result, you will not be able to activate it for monitoring service, unless you add a cellular module. The only reason to purchase this kit is if you already have an LTE cellular communicator for a GC3. Even then, you would usually be better off just purchasing a standalone GC3 System, which we sell for $259.99 at the time of this writing. You should only buy this kit if you already have a communicator, but you still need sensors.

Alarm Grid offers a very similar GC3 System Kit called the 2GIG GC3 Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit that includes a Verizon LTE Communicator for monitoring service. Since you are going to need a communicator anyway, this is the most economical option if you are looking for a GC3 Kit. The 2GIG GC3 Verizon-LTE 3-1 Kit is available for $431.99 at the time of this review. Additionally, an AT&T LTE Communicator called the 2GIG LTEA-A-GC3 is expected to be available soon. Alarm Grid will most likely begin offering GC3 Kits based around this communicator once it is available.

It's worth mentioning that this pre-packaged GC3 Kit comes with a 2GIG KEY1-345 Key Fob, while the GC3 LTE Kits do not. This isn't really a big deal, as you can just control your system from your phone using Alarm.com once you have activated your system for monitoring service. Additionally, our LTE kits include a Honeywell LT-Cable for easy installation. This pre-packaged kit lacks an LT-Cable, so you will have to supply your own wiring. That's very inconvenient.

If that weren't enough, 2GIG is expected to release their 2GIG GC3e System sometime in Summer of 2019. You might just want to wait for that system to come out. You might also consider going with a Resideo Lyric Alarm System instead of a GC3. Most users find that the Lyric is easy to program. All things considered, the only reason to purchase this particular kit is if you are in the extremely niche situation of already owning a GC3 LTE Communicator, but you still need a GC3 System and sensors. That is why we cannot recommend this product.

As we mentioned before, many users considering a 2GIG GC3 ultimately decide to go with a Lyric Controller. We recommend reading our FAQ titled "Honeywell Lyric Security System vs 2GIG GC3".

We do not recommend the Interlogix 600-1048-XT-ZX-AT. This 3G communicator can no longer be activated with the Alarm.com 3G sunset. If you need an AT&T communicator for your Interlogix Simon Panel, you should purchase the Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT. There's also a dual-path communicator available called the Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT that uses AT&T LTE and IP connectivity. Either of these communicators is a much better option than the Interlogix 600-1048-XT-ZX-AT.

Cellular service providers like AT&T are currently shutting down their older 3G networks in favor of the more advanced LTE networks. The LTE networks are faster and more reliable, which makes them better-suited for alarm monitoring. Since 3G networks will be shut down in the coming years, companies that operate interactive alarm monitoring platforms no longer allow 3G activations. As a result, you can no longer activate an Interlogix 600-1048-XT-ZX-AT for use with Alarm.com. If you have already activated this module, then you can continue to use it until AT&T shuts down their 3G network. This is expected to occur by the end of 2022. We recommend upgrading to an LTE communicator before then so that you do not experience any interruptions to your monitoring service.

Customers looking to get an AT&T LTE communicator for an Interlogix Simon XT, Simon XTi, Simon XTi-5, or a Simon XTi-5i should get an Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT instead. This communicator is available from Alarm Grid for $166.99 at the time of this writing. If you don't mind spending a bit more, you can get the Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT, which costs $197.99 at the time of this writing. Both the Interlogix 600-1048-XT-LTE-AT and the Alarm.com XT-511-US-AT also provide Z-Wave functionality. This means that you can start building a Z-Wave network for use with Alarm.com. Remember, you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular communication to activate one of these modules and use it for monitoring service.

For more information on the importance of LTE, please review our FAQ titled "Why Should I Get an LTE Communicator?"

We do not recommend purchasing the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-TM. With the Alarm.com 3G sunset, this communicator can no longer be activated. You should purchase an equivalent LTE communicator instead. The LTE communicators are available for around the same price as this module ($217.99 at the time of this review).

Cellular service providers are currently in the process of shutting down their older 3G networks in favor of the more advanced LTE networks. The companies that operate alarm monitoring platforms are aware of this, and they have made it impossible to activate 3G communicators for monitoring service. If you purchase the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-TM, you will not be able to activate it. As a result, this product is totally useless. The module was useful when ADC still allowed 3G activations. In fact, it was fairly unique for being a T-Mobile Communicator with Z-Wave control. But now, this module is obsolete.

Instead of the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-GSM-ZX-TM, you should get an equivalent LTE communicator. The best options are either the Alarm.com NX-410-US-AT (AT&T LTE) or the Interlogix Networx NX-592E-LTE-ZX-VZ (Verizon LTE). Just choose whichever service works better in your area. Most users with good T-Mobile service will also have good service from either AT&T or Verizon. These LTE communicators also include built-in Z-Wave control. This means that you will be able to start building a Z-Wave network for use with Alarm.com.

Remember, you will need an alarm monitoring plan that includes cellular communication to activate one of these modules. A Gold Plan or Platinum Plan from Alarm Grid are both excellent options for alarm monitoring. These plans also include home automation service so that you can start using Alarm.com for smart home control. You can click the orange Alarm Monitoring button at the top of this page to learn more about alarm monitoring.

With an LTE communicator, you will get faster and more reliable monitoring service. You will also be able to keep your system monitored well into the very distant future. Cellular service providers have stated that they have no plans to shut down their LTE networks any time soon. By getting an LTE communicator, you are essentially "future-proofing" your system. If you want to keep your Interlogix Networx panel monitored for the long run, don't get a 3G communicator. Get an LTE communicator. Either the Alarm.com NX-410-US-AT or the Interlogix Networx NX-592-LTE-ZX-VZ is what you need. For more information on the importance of an LTE communicator, please see our FAQ titled "Why Should I Get an LTE Communicator?"