Re: Radionics system questions

[Nomen Nescio <nobody@xxxxxxxxx>]

Mark M. has already covered most of this pretty well, but let me add a few
things.

First, if you do manage to get a 5200 programmer, don't be surprised if it
is locked with a password and unusable.

Second, even if you find a usable programmer, it will cost you more than
many alarm panels.  Putting it another way, you would be spending a
substantial amount of money on a piece of equipment you won't be using very
often.  You can buy a nicer panel than the 8112 for less than the cost of a
5200.  The 5100 bar code programmer is long since obsolete, and cannot
program newer panels such as the 7412/9412.

Third, all of the 7000/9000 panels and some of the 8112 panels have a
feature called datalock, which means you will not even be able to program
those panels with a 5200 unless the datalock code in the panel matches the
code in the programmer, or is set to the factory default lock code.  Be
warned if you are thinking of buying parts on eBay.

Fourth, forget about getting the RAM software.  Even if you managed to get
the software and the install disk, the software requires a dongle to
operate.  It was never intended for consumer use, and due to the dongle,
not even the illustrious Robert L. Bass can get you a copy that works.  The
datalock feature is also implemented in the RAM software, so even if you
had the software, you might not be able to access the programming of an
existing panel.

Fifth, although Radionics products are powerful and high quality, there is
a pretty steep learning curve.  That, plus the cost of the programmer,
makes them a poor choice for a DIY installation.

- badenov