Re: home security alarm system repair

["Robert L Bass" <robertbass1@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

> ... there are a few windows that do not
> seem to arm when open or close...

There are several possible causes to investigate.


1. Ranger American does a lot of tract homes in southern Florida.  If your home is in this area, lightning is one common problem.
It can freeze magnetic sensors (contacts) closed or open.  Mostly they stay open though I've seen it both ways.

2. There could also be a break in the wire somewhere.

3. The panel or a zone expansion device could have failed though this is less common.

The panel is the easiest thing to eliminate so check it first.  Pull one of the working zones off the panel and read its resistance.
If it's less than 10 Ohms the system is not using end of line resistors.  If it's 1.0K, 2.0K or 2.2K Ohms (these are the most
common), then EOL resistors are in use.  Either way, restore the good zone's wiring now.

If there are no EOLs short out the problem zone with a short wire.  If the panel still doesn't show ready to arm, the panel is the
problem.  If it does, go on to the next step.

If there are EOLs in use, short out the problem zone with an appropriate resistor and proceed as above.

If the tech did a decent job there will be a service loop (extra wire) in th wall behind the magnetic contacts.  You can pull them
out and use a meter or continuity tester to see if the contacts themselves have failed.  While bringing a magnet close to the sensor
check the resistance between the leads.  If nothing changes the sensor needs replacement.  They're cheap -- typically between $2 and
$4 apiece retail.

If the sensors are all working, temporarily short them out and see if the panel will arm.  If so, the problem is a broken wire.
You'll have to trace and repair it or run a new wire.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

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Bass Home Electronics
941-866-1100
4883 Fallcrest Circle
Sarasota · Florida · 34233
http://www.bassburglaralarms.com
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