Qolsys to Replace IQ2 Z-Wave Firmware Version 6.81.03. - Alarm Grid

Qolsys to Replace IQ2 Z-Wave Firmware Version 6.81.03.

Posted July 14, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

Alarm Grid has learned that Qolsys has uncovered some issues with their current Z-Wave firmware (6.81.03) for the IQ Panel 2 and IQ Panel 2 Plus. They are currently working on a new patch tag update to replace 6.81.03. However, the new update patch has not yet been made available.

Qolsys released Z-Wave Firmware Update 6.81.03 to provide the IQ Panel 2 with the Smart Start feature and to upgrade the system's Z-Wave security protocol to S2. Alarm Grid previously covered the 6.81.03 Z-Wave Firmware Version in this prior blog post. Our post specifically focused on the Smart Start feature, but it did provide information on the required Z-Wave firmware version.

Unfortunately, there have been compatibility issues between Z-Wave Firmware 6.81.03 and various Z-Wave devices. The only device that we know for sure has experienced issues with the system is the August Smart Lock Pro. But it is certainly possible that other Z-Wave devices may be affected. We have also confirmed that the August Smart Lock Pro will work fine on IQ2 Systems that have not yet had the 6.81.03 Patch applied.

With the issue in mind, we recommend NOT upgrading to Z-Wave Firmware Version 6.81.03. In fact, Qolsys has removed the 6.81.03 Patch Tag from their servers, making it virtually impossible to apply this update. But if you were planning to apply the update using a different method, such as an SD card, please do not proceed with that action. Just hang tight on the current Z-Wave firmware until the new patch is available.

We also understand that many people have already applied the 6.81.03 Patch. We are disappointed to say that there is no way to "roll-back" or "downgrade" the Z-Wave Firmware to an older version. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. But it is our understanding that most Z-Wave devices should not experience any problems on 6.81.03. If your Z-Wave network is still working as normal, then you should have nothing to worry about.

Alarm Grid does not currently have an ETA on when the new Z-Wave patch tag will be made available. However, we expect that it will be fairly soon. Qolsys is usually very quick and diligent about rolling these things out, and we're sure it is a top priority for the. We will post an update blog after the update has been made available. We then recommend upgrading your system's Z-Wave firmware to the new version as soon as you can.

If you have any questions about the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or its Z-Wave firmware versions, you can reach us for support@alarmgrid.com. That email is also great if you are interested in starting new monitoring service. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/qolsys-to-replace-iq2-z-wave-firmware-version-6-81-03

Syndicated from Qolsys to Replace IQ2 Z-Wave Firmware Version 6.81.03. - Alarm Grid

Video Recap: July 9th - Alarm Grid

Video Recap: July 9th

Posted July 13, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

Alarm Grid has a short but sweet video recap for you! Last week's recap was skipped to spread the cheer about our headquarters reopening, but we're here now! Unfortunately, we only have three (3) videos to share. Also, our usual team wasn't quite ready yet, so I had to make more appearances.

This week's videos are centered around the 2GIG GC3e Security System. This is a wireless all-in-one panel with support for encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors, as well as non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors. The system has a beautiful 7-inch touchscreen, built-in WIFI, partitioning support, and an integrated Z-Wave Plus controller. We hope these videos help you feel more comfortable in setting up your own 2GIG GC3e System for your home or business!

Pairing a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to pair a Z-Wave device with the 2GIG GC3e. The GC3e has a built-in Z-Wave Plus controller, which allows you to pair Z-Wave Plus and classic Z-Wave devices with the system. Common Z-Wave devices include lights, door locks, thermostats, and more. Programmed Z-Wave devices can be controlled from the panel and remotely from Alarm.com if the system is monitored. Most Z-Wave devices are excluded, or cleared, from the network before being added.

Pairing a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC3e

Programming a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add a key fob to a 2GIG GC3e. A key fob is a small handheld device that you can use to control your security system from a distance. Most key fobs will allow you to conveniently arm and disarm your system and operate programmed relay-triggered devices. Many key fobs also have the ability to set off panic alarms in distress situations. The 2GIG GC3e supports various 345 MHz wireless key fobs.

Programming a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC3e

Adding or Changing User Codes on a 2GIG GC3e

I show you how to add, change, and delete user codes on a 2GIG GC3e. A user code is a sequence of numbers that you enter into a system to verify that you are an authorized user. The 2GIG GC3e supports up to 100 user codes. It is advised that each regular user has their own code. Each new code on the GC3e must be enabled for the use with system after it has been added.

Adding or Changing User Codes on a 2GIG GC3e

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/video-recap-july-9th

Syndicated from Video Recap: July 9th - Alarm Grid

Help Using Your 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e - Alarm Grid

Help Using Your 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e

Posted July 10, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

Alarm Grid has been releasing some useful new FAQs and guides on using and setting up the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e Security Systems. We wanted to let you know about this content so that you can start getting the most out of these panels. Both can make a great addition to a home or business!

Both the 2GIG GC2e and 2GIG GC3e support the Alarm.com interactive service platform. By activating the system on a compatible monitoring plan, you will be able to control your 2GIG Panel remotely through the Alarm.com website and mobile app. This is great for operating your system while you are on the go! You will need a compatible LTE cellular communicator for the system to activate it for monitoring service!

Another exciting feature is that both systems offer built-in Z-Wave Plus functionality, which allows you to build a robust and powerful smart automation network for automatic operation and control for various devices used around your home or business. You can also integrate the exclusive lineup of encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors with these systems for enhanced wireless security and protection.

The 2GIG GC3e is a bit more robust than the GC2e, as the GC3e offers additional features like built-in WIFI, Smart Area Partitioning, and a larger touchscreen. You also have the ability to set up more wireless zones on the GC3e, which can come in handy for a larger home or business. But really, both systems can adapt well to nearly any situation.

Here we have some recent FAQs we have written for the 2GIG GC2e:

• How Do I Install the Cell Module in a 2GIG GC2e?
• How Do I Power On the 2GIG GC2e?
• How Do I Pair a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC2e?
• How Do I Program a Zone to a 2GIG GC2e?
• How Do I Add or Change User Codes on a 2GIG GC2e?
• How Do I Program a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC2e?

And here are some on the 2GIG GC3e:

• How Do I Power On the 2GIG GC3e?
• How Do I Program a Zone to a 2GIG GC3e?
• How Do I Pair a Z-Wave Device to the 2GIG GC3e?
• How Do I Add or Change User Codes on a 2GIG GC3e?
• How Do I Program a Key Fob Into a 2GIG GC3e?
• How Do I Connect a 2GIG GC3e to WIFI?

If you want to learn more about the 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e, or if you have questions about alarm monitoring in general, please email us at support@alrmgrid.com. Our team would love to help you out so that you can make an informed buying decision. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/help-using-your-2gig-gc2e-or-2gig-gc3e

Syndicated from Help Using Your 2GIG GC2e or 2GIG GC3e - Alarm Grid

Alarm Grid Takes the Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin' Challenge! - Alarm Grid

Alarm Grid Takes the Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin' Challenge!

Posted July 09, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

We have been patiently waiting for a slow news day to cover this story. After all, security systems are our top priority. But we also need to do something different every once in awhile. And so, we present to you our story of the Blazin' Wing Challenge at the nearby Buffalo Wild Wings.

This infamous event took place back in late June, before our headquarters fully reopened. While everyone at Alarm Grid was invited to take the challenge (whether they were working remotely or not), only three of us mustered up the courage to try and consume 12 ultra-spicy buffalo wings in six minutes or less. With the chicken wings doused in a sauce rated at 350,000 Scoville Units, and no napkins or drinks allowed, we knew we had our work cut out.

The three of us attempting the challenge included:

• Joshua - One of the three Alarm Grid Co-Founders. He is obsessed with Fortnite and apparently lacks the gene to let him know when he is consuming something spicy.
• James - The Alarm Grid Video Producer and Cameraman. He is ex-military and insisted that the wings stood "no chance".
• Michael - Me. The guy at Alarm Grid who spends all day writing. Sometimes I voluntarily embarrass myself in front of the camera when Jarrett is having a bad hair day.

And with that, here is the shocking, uncensored footage of the events that unfolded:

BDUBS Blazin Hot Wings Challenge

As for some spoilers on how everyone fared, we'll accordingly go in order, from most triumphant to most failure.

As much as we wanted to overthrow our boss as the king of the wing, Joshua utterly destroyed the challenge with a time of 2 minutes, 10 seconds. He also earned major style points by consuming the 350,000 Scoville Unit wings without so much as breaking a sweat and truly consuming them like a refined gentleman. Truly a master of the wing-eating technique. Bravo Joshua. Bravo.

While Joshua consumed his wings like a decent human being, I, Michael, elected to take the opposite approach, instead choosing to attack the hot wings much like a ravenous animal. I earned absolutely zero style points and forever have video footage of myself eating like a buffoon. But it was all worth it, as I came out a winner, with a blazin' time of 4 minutes, 20 seconds. Coincidentally, this was twice Joshua's time. Oh well. A win is a win.

Last, and certainly least, poor Jamesultimately did not finish the challenge, dropping out about halfway through. Despite his mad trash-talking skills prior to the challenge, he could not back up his words, and he will forever be branded a failure at the game of eating hot wings. We are very disappointed, as we were all hoping for a clean sweep for Alarm Grid. But I guess two out of three isn't that bad.

For our efforts, Josh and I were awarded T-Shirts. Unfortunately, Josh was too busy to pose for a picture (he is an Alarm Grid co-founder after all). So you will just have to settle for a pic of me rockin' my new threads.

If you are interested in attempting the Blazin' Wing Challenge, contact your local Buffalo Wild Wings for more information. All in all, this was a ton of fun, and we're very grateful that we had the opportunity to come together and do something like this. The waitstaff at Buffalo Wild Wings was great, and we were very impressed with how accommodating they were.

While (some of us) enjoy eating spicy wings, we enjoy alarm monitoring even more! If you are interested in signing up for service with the best monitoring provider ever, please email support@alarmgrid.com. We check email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

Vivint smart home media news release

This online site gives you  information regarding Vivint security.

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/alarm-grid-takes-the-buffalo-wild-wings-blazin-challenge
Syndicated from Alarm Grid Takes the Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin' Challenge! - Alarm Grid

2GIG GC2e Firmware Update 1.23 - Alarm Grid

2GIG GC2e Firmware Update 1.23

Posted July 08, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

We have learned that a new firmware update for the 2GIG GC2e is now available. Firmware Update 1.23 brings support for the 2GIG IMAGE3 Image Sensor (transceiver module required), the ability to program 6-digit codes, and enhancements for the 2GIG TS1 Keypad (transceiver module required).

It is important to note that although the 2GIG GC2e is updated in the same manner as its predecessor, the 2GIG Go!Control GC2, it has its own set of firmware updates. This new update, Firmware Update 1.23, is only available for the newer 2GIG GC2e System. You will not be able to apply this update to an original 2GIG GC2. Of course, you can always upgrade to the newer GC2e if you really want the update!

As far as new functionality is concerned, Firmware Update 1.23 has a few things to offer. The biggest addition is the new ability to use the 2GIG IMAGE3 Image Sensor (ADC-IS-300-LP) with the 2GIG GC2e System. Traditionally, this image sensor was only compatible with the 2GIG GC3 and 2GIG GC3e. But now you can use it with the GC2e as well. Another big aspect of Firmware Update 1.23 is that it includes various enhancements and upgrades for the 2GIG TS1 Touchscreen Keypad when used with the 2GIG GC2e System.

It is important to note that the TS1 Keypad, as well as any image sensor used with the 2GIG GC2e, will require that the panel has a 2GIG XCVR2-345 Transceiver Module installed. This add-on allows the 2GIG GC2e to support the 2-way communication needed to interface with the TS1 Keypad and image sensor units. However, adding a 2GIG XCVR2-345 Transceiver Module to a 2GIG GC2e will remove the panel's ability to interface with 2GIG eSeries Encrypted Sensors. Instead, only non-encrypted 345 MHz sensors, such as 1-way Honeywell 5800 Series Sensors and 2GIG 345 MHz Sensors, will be supported.

According to 2GIG, an update patch for the 2GIG XCVR2-345 will soon be made available to allow the GC2e System to simultaneously support encrypted 2GIG eSeries Sensors, as well as compatible 2-way devices like image sensors and the TS1 Keypad. At the time of this writing, the update patch is not yet available. However, we will provide an update once more information is made available.

Other than that, any new additions from 2GIG GC2e Firmware Update 1.23 are relatively minor. The only other new function is the ability to program 6-digit user codes for the panel and compatible Z-Wave door locks. And like most firmware updates, GC2e Version 1.23 will provide general stability fixes and improvements in performance. Therefore, we recommend that all 2GIG GC2e owners download the update at their earliest convenience.

The easiest way to receive Firmware Update 1.23 is to have it pushed down to the panel from Alarm.com. You can contact your monitoring provider to receive the update. If you are monitored by Alarm Grid, you can email us at support@alarmgrid.com to request the update. You should have your GC2e System powered on an connected with the Alarm.com servers. Since the GC2e does not support IP connectivity and can only connect with Alarm.com across cellular, a small fee will be required to push the update from ADC. This charge will be applied to your next monitoring bill.

Of course, you can also provide the update locally using the 2GIG UPCBL2 Firmware Updater Cable or the 2GIG UPDV Easy Updater Tool. If you are monitored by us and have questions about updating your monitored GC2e locally, or if you have questions about the update in general, please contact us at the same email, support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/2gig-gc2e-firmware-update-1-23

Syndicated from 2GIG GC2e Firmware Update 1.23 - Alarm Grid

Alarm.com Mobile App Update 4.13.1 - Alarm Grid

Alarm.com Mobile App Update 4.13.1

Posted July 07, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

A new Alarm.com Mobile App update, Version 4.13.1 should be made available in the coming days. This comes approximately a month after the previous update. The update will be available for free download from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. We recommend downloading ASAP.

There are a few minor new inclusions with Alarm.com Mobile App Version 4.13.1. For one, customers enrolled in any cost-saving Give Back, Get Back demand response programs for smart thermostats will be able to know more easily when such energy-saving events are taking place. Alarm Grid has discussed these cost-saving programs before. In particular, we have posted about the demand response program for Baltimore Gas & Electric, as well as one for LADWP. We recommend checking with your local power supplier to see if any similar programs are available for you.

Another change is that iOS users with video monitoring service will now be able to swipe down with two fingers to quickly select multiple saved video clips at once. This is done conveniently from the Video and Doorbells Menu screen. Meanwhile, Android users are also getting their own update that makes their experience when adding a new video device identical to that of the Alarm.com iOS platform. Users will need to update the WIFI settings for the Android device outside of the ADC App to find the WIFI network for the video device.

Lastly, the update includes some bug fixes and some general minor enhancements for both Android and iOS versions. This should result in a smoother experience overall. Like we said, the update, Version 4.13.1, should be made available in the coming days. If you have any questions about this update, or if you are looking to get started with alarm monitoring service with access to Alarm.com, please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We check our email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. We look forward to hearing from you!

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/alarm-com-mobile-app-update-4-13-1

Syndicated from Alarm.com Mobile App Update 4.13.1 - Alarm Grid

Alarm Grid Headquarters Fully Reopens! - Alarm Grid

Alarm Grid Headquarters Fully Reopens!

Posted July 06, 2020 at 09:00 am By Michael Goris

Back in mid-March, our headquarters shut down due to health & safety concerns from COVID-19. The vast majority of our support, planning, and content teams transitioned to working from home. Well today marks a big step forward, as our headquarters has fully reopened with everyone returning!

As you may recall, we did a partial reopening last month, with our management and content staff returning to the office. Meanwhile, our support technicians and security system planners continued diligently working from home. But today represents the final step of our transition back, as the rest of our team will return to the office and resume business as usual.

We understand that many American businesses have struggled making a safe and efficient transition during this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. However, we are thrilled to say that Alarm Grid handled this transition beautifully, with minimal disruption and inconvenience. Our team continued providing the best support in the industry to protect homes and businesses of all kinds. We are very proud of our entire staff for the role they played in making this possible.

Now that we are all back in the office, we highly doubt that you (the end user) will notice anything different. We will continue answering phones and emails just like we have been while we were working from home. The only difference is that we will be wearing proper office attire instead of our pajamas. And hopefully, we'll have some more videos ready for you soon, with some familiar faces returning!

The COVID-19 Pandemic has really been an eye-opening for all of us. But we feel extremely fortunate and grateful that Alarm Grid was able to push full-steam ahead without missing a beat. We even helped many homeowners, who were bored to tears hanging around their houses, finally set up their alarm panels that they had been putting off installing. And you can bet they were surprised to learn it was super easy. See, there are positives in every situation!

If you want to join the thousands who have already taken control of their security systems with DIY monitoring from Alarm Grid, or if you are an existing customer with questions about your system, please reach out to us by emailing support@alarmgrid.com. Our team (now back in the office) checks email from 9am to 8pm ET M-F. You may also call us at (888) 818-7728 during those same business hours. We look forward to hearing from you!

Vivint smart home security reports

This page hasinformation about Vivint cost.

from
https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/alarm-grid-headquarters-fully-reopens
Syndicated from Alarm Grid Headquarters Fully Reopens! - Alarm Grid