Keyfob Setup

[Photon]

It seems actions associated the buttons on the GE 4-button fobs can be configured in Wireless Setup -> Keyfob Events tab or they can be defined by rules. Obviously one can define a more complex action with rules, but what about simple actions such as defining button #1 to be Armed Away? Is there an advantage in doing it one way or the other? Response time? Memory use? Maybe it isn't even significant since there are only six button definitions.

 

[IVB]

I use mine for strictly simple rules (maglock on, maglock off, outer light on, all lights off).

Armed Away is probably a bad choice in case you accidentally press it. I know mine do but I keep mine in my jeans pocket.

 

[paulw11]

Hi,

The advantage of defining a button to be "armed away" or "disarm" is that each keyfob can be associated with a user and in the log you will see which user armed/disarmed the system. If you arm via a rule then you wont see which user armed/disarmed the system.

I have mine set up this way and haven't had any trouble with the buttons triggering accidentally - the opposite if anything I find the GE keyfob buttons are a little fiddly. Even if the arm button was pressed it would just start the exit delay and I would hear the voice announcement - It would then be a simple matter of pressing the disarm button.

Paul

 

[Photon]

Vivek, thanks for the warning, but the whole purpose in having the M1XRF and fobs is to make the system fit our lifestyle and not have to change to suite the Elk. Not long ago I watched my better half exit end enter the back door several times before she finally got into the car and backed out of the garage only to see her return to the garage for one more item. I doubt she would ever arm the system if she had to enter her code every time she went back inside. Nor do I want a super-long exit delay. If we accidently trigger the system to armed-away, I'll redefine for a double button press or something.

Paul, I hadn't thought of that one. I'll leave the Arm and disarm buttons configured in Wireless Setup. Good call.

I'm still experimenting with rules so I can use the fourth button to interrogate the system for armed/disarmed status. So far button #4 trips a rule that turns on a light behind a garage attic window for 10 seconds if the system is Armed. I'm not completely satisfied with that because the absence of the light might mean the keyfob didn't communicate; not necessatily that it is disarmed. I'll probably change it to turn on for three seconds if armed and for 10 seconds if disarmed.

I also have a rule that sets a flag (output) when there is an alarm. Another rule turns on the indicator light for 10 minutes if the flag is set whenever the system becomes disarmed as a warning to the family to stay out of the house. If my Tane strobe ever gets off backorder status, I'll split some of these indications between the strobe and the indicator light.

I'll just mention that others whose opinions and experience I respect, including BraveSirRobbin, take the more comon view that the strobe should remain on after an alarm shuts off. I take the minority view that it serves to advertise the house probably has a door or window broken in, and it is easy to enter. It could also run the backup batteries down if the perp cuts power to the house upon entry.

If anyone wants to share how they have their six button combinations configured, I'm all ears. Eh. . .all eyes.

Thanks for your replies. . . . John