Beginner Home Security Endeavor

[Slates]

So, I am debating trying to add a couple of things to my home security system (installed by builder) and I wanted to get some input from everyone.

I have a Vista-20P system and have all the manuals, etc.

What I want to add to the system:

• Keyfob for panic button functionality
• Wireless sensor for internal door

I know I will need to add some sort of wireless card to receive the signals as I don't have any wireless sensors installed at the moment. I was hoping I could get some input on:

1) Is this a task that a beginner could tackle (I have done wiring before and am comfortable tinkering with things)? I have no prior experience with home security other than my lurking on this forum.
2) If so, what hardware might people recommend for a Vista-20P system for this purpose? (Wireless receiver, sensor and keyfob)

I appreciate everyone's input. It seems like the most difficult part of it for me would be programming the sensors into the system using the keypads.. wish I had an Elk or HAI!

Thanks!

 

[Del91574]

A 20P is actually easier to program than an Elk or HAI, it's pretty straightforward from an alpha keypad.

If you have no experience with the panel, the easiest would be to run a wire for the new door and install a Code Encryptor 3 for the fobs, most cost effective.

 

[Sandpiper]

Most systems install now have a wireless receiver built into the keypad. The easiest way to check is to pop the keypad off the mounting bracket and look to see if it has a antenna around the edges of the keypad. If so then all you'll need are the keyfobs and the wireless contact. The rest is programming. Get ahold of a programming manual for a VISTA 20P, and your set. You may need the installer code though. The manual tells you how you may be able to get into programming if you dont have it.

 

[Slates]

Thanks for the info. I checked the keypads, no antenna on them. I do think I could wire the door sensor, as there is some attic access above the room.

The Code Encryptor 3 sounds like it needs to be installed on the keypad for range compatibility with the remotes. It says it can be connected to the terminals on the keypad, but there aren't any spare terminals open. Would it just piggyback on the other connection, if that makes sense?

As for programming the Vista 20P, I did find a programming manual, but at the moment it seems greek to me. I wish it had a user interface like the Elk to program, as I am much more comfortable with a screen than a keypad... but I guess I can learn it!

Thanks again.

 

[Slates]

OK, so I poked around a bit in my system after getting the above feedback...

Apparently I do not have any open zones to hardwire to, all terminals are utilized. My thinking is that it might be cheaper for me to just replace one of my honeywell 6150 keypads with a 6150RF (has the antenna for wireless built in) and then buy a keyfob and door sensor to link to it. This would likely be cheaper than buying an expansion card, wire and the Code Encryptor package.

Anything I should be cognizant of when changing out a keypad, if I go this route? I assume it is not quite plug and play, but I just wanted to be sure that there isn't a suggested process for replacing one.

Thanks again!

 

[Slates]

Further info... I have 2 keypads, both 6150 models. It sounds like I need an alphanumeric keypad to program, which the 6150 is not?

Apparently I need a 6160RF to be able to program zones. Does this mean the installer just used a separate device to program the system and then removed it once complete?

Looks like the 6160 is more expensive, but nothing crazy.

 

[russban]

Yes, you do need an alphanumeric keypad to program such as the 6160. With a lot of companies the tech just has a 6160 with him to program systems or they are pre-programmed at the shop or they use the dial up software.

 

[Sandpiper]

OK, so I poked around a bit in my system after getting the above feedback...

Apparently I do not have any open zones to hardwire to, all terminals are utilized. My thinking is that it might be cheaper for me to just replace one of my honeywell 6150 keypads with a 6150RF (has the antenna for wireless built in) and then buy a keyfob and door sensor to link to it. This would likely be cheaper than buying an expansion card, wire and the Code Encryptor package.

Anything I should be cognizant of when changing out a keypad, if I go this route? I assume it is not quite plug and play, but I just wanted to be sure that there isn't a suggested process for replacing one.

Thanks again!

When powering up and new keypad, the keypad must be addressed. The instructions included tell you how to do that. If you have two keypads, then most likely one is addressed at 16 and the second one at 17. It would be easiest if the replacement keypad has the same address as the old keypad, so you'll need to find out which one is addressed 16 and which is 17. The instructions included will tell you how to do that.

A VISTA CAN be programmed with a 6150 keypad, but it is kwirky. I used to do it all the time. You just have to * through the fields you cannot see, but it's not too hard. Good luck.

 

[Slates]

Thanks for all the input. I have ordered a 61660 RF that comes with 2 keyfobs. I was able to figure out the address of the keypad I want to replace, and do have the installer code. I think I have just enough information to be dangerous!