Home Automation – DIY Security Blog

First Alert VX1 HD WiFi Video Doorbell Has Been Released

The all-new First Alert VX1 HD Video Doorbell Camera has been released on GeoArm.com.

Porch Pirates Beware!!! More homeowner’s are now watching and recording your every action. GeoArm has released Resideo’s First Alert VX1 HD Video Doorbell geared to the DIY home security market.

The all-new CAMW-WDB video doorbell is designed for intelligence and reliability that most customers have come to expect from their connected home. It allows homeowners to greet visitors, keep track of package deliveries, and monitor general activity outside the doorway (from any location). With intelligent AI for meaningful notifications, the doorbell offers leading video quality and performance. Along with general-purpose motion detection, the VX1 includes people, package, vehicle, and animal detection. It also includes sound detection that alerts homeowners to a loud sound outside of the home.

Resideo’s First Alert VX1 video doorbell camera installed near front door of home.

GeoArm can remotely add and configure the VX1 doorbell, ensuring a great homeowner experience. For fast and reliable installation, the VX1 features simple cloud-based QR code on-boarding. Dual-band 2.4 and 5GHz WiFi provides enhanced performance and simplifies installation. Additionally, the doorbell supports mechanical or digital chimes for both new and retrofit installations. Homeowners have access to all the VX1 features and capabilities using the Resideo Total Connect 2.0 app, which lets users get notified of important activity anytime, anywhere.

Using the app, homeowners can view high-quality live and recorded video with three fields of view to choose from, accommodating a variety of entryways. The VX1 Video Doorbell includes a grey and white trim ring that blends well with existing home colors. Homeowners appreciate a doorbell that not only provides excellent video, but also looks good on their home. The doorbell is made of a UV-resistant material, designed to prevent environmental wear, and operates in extreme weather conditions (-40°F to 122°F).

Product Features:

Intelligent Event Detection – Person, package, vehicle, and animal with video clips Motion and loud sound detection with video clips
High-Resolution 5MP Camera with WDR – Provides vibrant, detailed video for live and recorded video
2-Way Interactive Audio – Greet visitors and have a conversation before opening or remotely unlocking the door
Compact, Modern Design – Sleek, unobtrusive design that fits most door trims
Dual-Band WiFi Connectivity – Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi provides flexibility and range performance while simplifying the installation
Built-in LED Spotlight and Siren – Warn intruders from any location
See Near and Far, Day or Night – Wide angle views and color night vision for optimal visibility any time of day
Designed for Easy Installation – Installs in minutes using a flat or angled bracket and securely connects to the Resideo cloud
Resideo Total Connect 2.0 App for Homeowners – Stay connected with HD video viewing and AI-based event notifications, including a complete feature set for the connected home with built-in tutorials
GeoArm Remote Support – Anywhere programming, troubleshooting, account creation and management.

Qolsys IQ4 Hub Panel Has Been Released by GeoArm

The Qolsys IQ4 Hub (from Johnson Controls) all-in-one wireless 7″ touchscreen smart security system with automation has been released to the DIY security marketplace. The affordable IQ4 Hub contains a built-in Alarm.com dual-path wifi/cellular Verizon LTE communicator and either a S-Line/legacy 319.5 MHz wireless receiver, legacy 345 MHz, legacy 433 MHz or PowerG receiver and all the bells and whistles.

The IQ4 Hub also includes other key features such as; Bluetooth, Z-Wave 800-Series automation module, smash and grab reporting. It features a SmartMount system, all internal antennas and an easy on-screen installation wizard. With a built-in front speaker the IQ4 Hub allows for 85dB piezo audible siren to alert nearby individuals of an alarm initiating event. It has a dual panel and wall tamper with spring release and smash and grab reporting. Additionally, the panel has a single wake/sleep button for added user convenience.

Johnson Control’s Qolsys IQ4 Hub is simple to wall-mount in minutes and even easier to use.

The touchscreen panel also includes Live View which is the ability to view Alarm.com video cameras on the screen, and Live Answer. Live Answer give the user the ability to answer their Alarm.com video doorbell from the IQ4 Hub inside the property, such as the Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 touchless video doorbell. Live Answer will also work with Live View cameras that have voice capability, such as the Alarm.com ADC-V515 indoor security camera. With Alarm.com’s video monitoring solutions in place you can view and respond through the interactive app, and you can also see who is at the front door by just looking at the IQ4 Hub touchscreen.

The IQ4 Hub leverages the power of it’s Android 9 operating system with a QualComm Snapdragon 8 core SOM (System on a Module) processor having 16GB NAND Flash internal memory. The IQ4 Hub has an aesthetically pleasing and elegant modern user interface that keeps you connected to an entire ecosystem of smart devices, giving you complete control over your entire apartment, home or small business.

Product Features:

Affordable All-in-One : 8-Core Processor, LTE and WiFi Dual-Path, 7″ Touchscreen
Choose Your Version : PowerG or S-Line or Interlogix or 2GIG or DSC or Honeywell
Video : Live View, Live Answer doorbell and cameras on screen
Bluetooth : Touchless disarming, music streaming
Easy Installation : SmartMount, Install Wizard, on-screen diagnostics

IQ4 Hub Model Numbers: IQPH051, IQPH052, IQPH053 and IQPH054

Johnson Controls Releases IQ WiFi 6 Mesh Router

Johnson Control’s released the Qolsys IQ WiFi 6 mesh router for business and home security.

Johnson Control’s Qolsys IQ WiFi 6 (Part Number: IQWF6) mesh router solution for homes and businesses with security, automation and Wi-Fi devices has been released to the do-it-yourself market.

The IQ WiFi 6 is a Wi-Fi Alliance Certified router with Alarm.com management software built in, delivering improved end-to-end user experience and reduced dealer maintenance, support calls and truck rolls.The Qolsys IQWF6 is a mesh capable router that covers every corner of every room with safe, seamless WiFi up to 1,500 square feet per point. The IQ WiFi 6 router is used to connect Qolsys-compatible WiFi devices such as; Alarm.com security cameras, Alarm.com video doorbells and the Qolsys touchscreen keypad inside a home or business to the Qolsys IQ Panel security system.

The IQ Wifi 6 provides remote access utilizing the Alarm.com interactive integration.

When paired with the Qolsys IQ Panel, the IQ WiFi 6 delivers 3 unique network/SSIDs: one for the end user’s personal or business devices, an easy-to-join guest network, and a dedicated security network for the dealer’s installed devices such as cameras, doorbells, and garage openers. These networks can be managed and maintained by end users and service providers through the panel’s 7″ touchscreen, iOS and Android mobile apps, and the Alarm.com website and Partner Portal.

IQ WiFi 6 leverages The Qualcomm® Networking Pro 400, a highly flexible Wi-Fi 6 platform designed to meet the growing demands of crowded WiFi environments.

Product Features:

Self optimizing WiFi mesh with wired and wireless ethernet backhaul
WiFi version 6, ax1800
Supports Dual-band 2.4G/5G
Supports 7 additional Agents (1 Controller)
Stand alone or parallel configuration supported
Web interface or IQ Panel configurable
Main, Guest and Security SSIDs
Included wall mount enables flexible placement
Powered by Alarm.com

New Alarm.com Smart Thermostat HD Released

The Alarm.com ADC-T40K-HD Smart Thermostat HD for both business and home security.

The all-new Alarm.com Smart Thermostat HD with color touchscreen display has been released to the DIY security market at GeoArm.

The Alarm.com ADC-T40K-HD is an aesthetically pleasing smart thermostat that offers a sleek, color touchscreen display for an engaging customer experience that delivers the next-level of comfort and control. With mechanical wire detection, an easy setup wizard, and local configuration, the Smart Thermostat HD makes installation a breeze. The Smart Thermostat HD can also monitor the health of the heating and cooling system, deliver monthly performance reports, and even alert you to potential HVAC issues right on its display.

The Alarm.com Smart Thermostat is easy to wall-mount and the touchscreen is simple to use.

When installing, please keep in mind that the Smart Thermostat HD requires 24 VAC power. There is no option for a battery-powered mode. Power is supplied via a common wire, typically identified as C. Mount on an inside wall, approximately 5 ft. (1.5 m) above the floor in a frequently used room. Avoid areas that are exposed to large temperature variances, such as: direct sunlight, near an AC unit, above or below auxiliary heat and air vents, and drafts from windows or exterior doors.

Product Features:

Touchscreen display
Easy to use setup wizard
Z-Wave SmartStart and S2 compatible
Full integration with the Alarm.com platform – Scenes, energy-saving schedules, and geo-fences
Optional local scheduling – install in a vacant home prior to account creation
Humidity control
Vent control

Brilliant Smart Home Hub Integrates with Resideo Total Connect 2.0 and Much More!

The Brilliant Smart Home Hubs work with Just About Everything in the Integrated Home Tech.

The Brilliant Resideo BHA120USWH all-in-one smart home control panel have just been released for sale at GeoArm.

When adding the Brilliant Control Hub it instantaneously transforms any property, especially those with a Total Connect 2.0 security system, by simply replacing the light switch with a Brilliant touchscreen panel.

Brilliant Controls include an all-in-one mobile friendly app that provide the end user with complete control of the home or business from anywhere. These Brilliant smart panels can also be installed as secondary controllers with any Resideo ProSeries, VISTA, LYNX and Lyric Controller security system. Brilliant works with Resideo, Honeywell Home, Ring, Google Nest, Sonos, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Siri, Samsung SmartThings, Schlage, Yale, Kwikset, August, Philips Hue, Genie, Overhead Door, Somfy, and many other top smart home brands.

The Brilliant Panels are designed to be installed in place of any standard 1, 2, 3 or 4-gang light switch panel with neutral and ground wires (fits any 1 to 4-gang electrical boxes).

The Brilliant Panel makes it easy to control your security, automation and video around the home.

Releasing the M2M Services MiNi-LTE-M-AV for Low-Cost Monitoring with Z-Wave Automation

GeoArm has released the all-new M2M Services MiNi-LTE-M-AV residential burglary intrusion alarm communicator with Z-Wave automation to the DIY security market.

The M2M Services MiNi-LTE-M-AV cellular dual-SIM 5G AT&T/Verizon universal alarm communicator with Z-Wave automation for use with most existing burglary intrusion systems is available at GeoArm.

The MINI-LTE-M-AV communicator is compatible with most existing dial-capture interface burglary intrusion control panels (DSC, Honeywell and GE Interlogix NX-Series). With future-proof technology, the MINI-LTE-M-AV communicator transmits alarm signals over the AT&T/Verizon 5G LTE network to the GeoArm central monitoring station.

Likewise, the MINI-LTE-M-AV can be accessed remotely by our GeoArm professional technicians with UDL software (DLS, Compass, DL900) via the RING/TIP connections (using the MN01-RNGR module). So, have peace of mind knowing you are not alone, and this communicator allows for our remote panel programming and full upload/download remote capabilities.

Additionally, the MINI-LTE-M-AV communicator has the ability for end users to remotely control some of the interactive features using the RControl smartphone app (designed for Android/iPhone). Using the app clients can have; remote arm/disarm capabilities, real-time push and email notifications, multiple end users and devices per account, 12 months events history and basic configuration/diagnostics.

In summary, the MINI-LTE-M-AV is an inexpensive option for our DiY clients who have existing security systems and are looking to lower their business or home security bill. This new age M2M Verizon LTE (Long-Term Evolution) communicator, powered by GeoArm, brings faster speeds and greater stability that won’t break the bank.

Product Features:

Universal Panel Compatibility:
Dial-Capture Interface supporting Contact ID, SIA and Pulse 4+2
Future-Proof LTE-M Technology:
Dual SIM supporting both AT&T and Verizon (or any country specific networks) in the same radio
Interactive Features:
Multi brand UDL and smart bus support for selected alarm panels
Forward Compatible with Smart Home:
Supporting Z-Wave, Wi-Fi and LAN via the M2M Smart Hub

Touchless Cover and Mat Bundle for Alarm.com VDB770 Video Doorbells!

The Alarm.com ADC-VDBA-CMBUNDLE touchless cover and front door floor mat bundle designed for the Alarm.com ADC-VDB770 video doorbell cameras has been released at GeoArm.

Achieve a 100% touchless front door entrance for all of your guests by pairing this cover and mat bundle with the Alarm.com video doorbell.

Setting up the cover/matt bundle is a breeze. Place the mat on the ground near the front door entrance that is adjacent to the ADC-VDB770 video doorbell. Then, just snap the touchless cover onto the front screen of the ADC-VDB700 video doorbell.

Product Includes:

Touchless Cover
Front Door Floor Mat
Compatible with Alarm.com ADC-VDB770, ADC-VDB770-BZ and ADC-VDB770-S Video Doorbells

GeoArm Expands With Resideo’s Innovative LTEM-P Alarm Communicator

Introducing the all new dual-path alarm communicator that supports either AT&T or Verizon Cellular LTE, Ethernet or optional Wi-Fi/Z-Wave automation control by Resideo Technologies, Inc.

GeoArm, a fast-growing, do-it-yourself brand in smart home and business security, announced today the release of the all-new Resideo LTEM-P dual-path alarm communicators.

Together, GeoArm and Resideo (formerly “Honeywell Home”) are adding more alternative technologies for switching away from the traditional overpriced alarm company. With universal compatibility, the do-it-yourselfer can easily add the newly released LTEM-P communicator into most existing security systems. Whether a consumer has a DSC PowerSeries, Honeywell Home VISTA-Series, GE Interlogix NetworX NX-Series, or other burglary intrusion control panel that supports Contact ID, this brand new Resideo communicator is a great choice for low-cost, nationwide, central station alarm monitoring services provided by GeoArm.

“We are excited to offer the new Resideo product line of LTEM-P universal communicators into our brand’s portfolio of products and services that our customers have to choose from in advance of the cellular radio sunset dates set to take place in the first quarter of 2022,” said Steve Rosenthal, General Manager of GeoArm. With the impending sunset of the cellular 3G/4G AT&T network taking effect in the month of February 2022, and the cellular 3G/4G Verizon network slated to shutdown sometime later in 2022, it was important for users to find a low-priced, cellular 5G LTE radio that offered maximum network longevity.

With an LTE Cat M1 cellular alarm communicator built into the module for use over either the AT&T or Verizon 4G/5G network, this radio was constructed for the strongest signal penetration in the most challenging of installation environments. “Because the Resideo LTEM-P comes with its own plug-in power supply and doesn’t require power directly from the panel, it is easy to install in just minutes,” said Drew Davis, Operations Manager of GeoArm. The equipment was made by Resideo for a DIY-friendly installation and only requires a screwdriver in order to land just two wires on the takeover circuit board’s dialer, keybus or ECP connector.

Having an advanced modular design, the LTEM-P was engineered to be compatible with future control panels and cellular services that have still yet to come. For customers wanting Wi-Fi and/or Z-Wave automation control, they can add the PROWIFIZW communications module at any time. Resideo offers secure web-based services that enable users to remotely monitor and control the VISTA-Series hardwired security systems. These web services enable users to monitor and control the security system using their Android or iOS smartphone, receive email notifications of system events, and receive event confirmations using the Total Connect 2.0 interactive monitoring app.

A Global Chip Shortage Continues to Disrupt the Security Industry

In addition to chip shortages, a backlog of shipping containers are further complicating the operational flow of the security industry through 2022.

As many of you have probably experienced or heard about, there is currently a backlog of container ships in most US Ports; this backlog is causing a delay in the regular supply chain that leads security products to customers.

So you may ask yourself, how exactly has this happened? Well, there are a few reasons why supply chains have been stressed across a plethora of industries, thus resulting in product availability delays. Over the past two decades over 90% of the world’s global trade has been shipped by sea and with 70% via shipping containers. Simply stated, shipping products by sea has been the most cost effect means for sending goods abroad.

The United States has continued to increase the outsourcing of the production of goods to foreign countries, mostly for economic reasons which has resulted in a supreme reliance on importing goods, instead of producing them at home, in today’s global commerce. As well, US companies have also increasingly relied on JIT “just-in-time” inventory systems to order their goods at the last moment, rather than stocking the items on their shelfs, which has resulted in lower inventory levels.

Together with, during the past two decades the shipping business has not been too profitable, meaning little investment has been put into building new ships. To make matter worse here in the US, our railroad companies have also been cutting costs and reducing their headcounts which has created the perfect storm for the shipping logistics crisis that we find ourselves in today.

The global semiconductor shortage is reducing the availability of security related parts.

Many industries including the security industry are also experiencing a global semiconductor chip shortage too. The sudden lockdown from the coronavirus created a ripple effect, where suppliers were unable to meet the growing demands for the silicon microchips that power today’s security system electronics. The remote work from home environment along with cloud infrastructure amplified and prioritized the sales of gaming gadgets, phones and several other electronic devices. And, the remaining stock of chips left available was insufficient to catch up to the pent-up demand in a slew of industries, including the security industry.

The good news is that we anticipate both crises to come to an end soon. Shipping routes now have alternative locations, like Florida, which are offering to carry more of the load, and semiconductor manufacturer’s, like Qualcomm, have stated that they expect the chip manufacturing shortage to begin resolving itself by the third quarter of 2022. So, if you are one of the many who are experiencing delays in receiving your parts order, you are not alone. Here at GeoArm, we are monitoring the two shipping crises described in this article on a day-to-day basis and keeping track of the out-of-stock items. So that when these parts do become available again for distribution, our customers will be first in line to receive them.

GeoArm and M2M Team Up for Low-Cost Alarm Monitoring for Customers

GeoArm and M2M partner for discount PRO and DIY alarm monitoring services.

GeoArm, a leading provider of no-term contract security, automation and smart home solutions serving residential and business customers in the United States, today announced the addition of M2M products and services to its website offerings.

Together, GeoArm and M2M are paving the path to switch away from the traditional overpriced alarm company. With universal compatibility, the do-it-yourselfer can easily add the M2M alarm communicator into most commercial fire alarm and burglary intrusion panels already installed in existing homes and businesses. Whether a consumer has a DSC PowerSeries, Honeywell Home VISTA-Series, GE Interlogix NetworX NX-Series or other takeover control panel that supports Contact ID, SIA and Pulse 4+2, the M2M line of alarm communicators are a great choice for low-cost nationwide alarm monitoring.

“We are thrilled to add M2M solutions into our brand’s portfolio of products and services that our customers have to choose from in advance of the cellular radio sunset dates set to take place in the first quarter of 2022,” said Joe Rosenthal, President and CEO of GeoArm. With the impending sunset of cellular 3G/4G AT&T network beginning first in the month of February 2022, and the cellular 3G/4G Verizon network slated to shutdown later next year in Dec. 31, 2022, it was important for users to find a low-priced, future proof, cellular 5G LTE module that offered maximum network longevity.

The M2M product line of alarm communicators can be installed in a matter of minutes by simply landing just two-wires on the circuit board and anyone can do it. “Because these alarm communicators are low-voltage and run off the control panel’s battery, there is absolutely no need to hire an expensive professional to get them hooked up,” said Rafael Alvarez, Technical Manager of GeoArm. Just sit back and watch the appropriate how to installation video found on GeoArm’s YouTube page, that illustrates the steps to follow that will make the M2M communicator setup a breeze.

Best of all the M2M’s RControl app gives GeoArm customers the ability to interact with their compatible burglar intrusion panel for no additional monthly charge. The end user can remotely download the RControl app on any Android or iOS device to arm/disarm the security system in “away mode” when they are not home during the day, and also have the ability to arm it in “stay mode” when they are home at night. The app allows for real-time push and email notifications for multiple end users and devices per account so that all family members and business managers are on guard. Also, there is an admin portal that allows for 24/7 device management and real-time status monitoring of all accounts with 12 months of event history stored for use at a later time. To ensure the M2M communicator works when it matters most, the modules are designed with supervised connectivity that includes polling in 10 minute intervals for exceptional reliability.

Once installed into an existing compatible alarm system, the M2M communicator will transmit alarm systems data to either GeoArm’s central station and/or directly to the end user in the event of an alarm initiating event. With both do-it-yourself and professionally trained operator alarm monitoring services offered by GeoArm starting at $8 a month for burglary intrusion security systems, and $30 a month for commercial fire alarm systems, homes and businesses can finally lower that costly alarm bill and start enjoying the monthly savings.