Re: Help with adding two window sensors to ADT alarm.

[Frank Kurz <tech@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On 28/10/2010 10:13 PM, mleuck wrote:

>>
>> I would advise against programming the panel yourself while you're still
>> under contract.
>>
>> This having been said, I recently took over an ADT Vista 20.  Without a
>> full alpha keypad I wouldn't attempt to add wireless devices.  The Vista
>> 20 manual is readily available online.  If the installer exited
>> programming with *99 command you should be able to get "in" by powering
>> the system down (remove battery and AC) and then powering back up.  Go
>> to any keypad in the house within 60 seconds and press "*" and "#"
>> together.  If the keypad displays "20", you're "in" and can proceed to
>> program the system.
>>
>> You NEED a full alpha keypad.  You NEED the programming manual and some
>> basic understanding of alarm terminology.
>>
>> If you screw up the programming sequence, the installer that ADT
>> dispatches is liable to charge you double to fix it.
>
> Its not a very good idea to tell someone how to get into programming
> without knowing if the guy has the proper keypad or not, do you
> honestly think he's going to know what an alpha keypad is? Now it's
> likely he'll put it in programming anyway thanks to you and not have a
> clue how to get out
>
> I've seen this crap happen before, someone with no experience totally
> hoses their system and will they admit it? of course not then it's
> ADT's fault and of course everyone here piles on


I agree with you Mark.  A search of this group will reveal many
instances where individuals have provided the information necessary to
access installer level programming on a number of different setups (heck
you can even find the manuals online).  I thought it important to
mention the importance of doing it right and having the right tools.  A
number of other respondents (including yourself) have provided
sufficient warning for any end-user to think twice before attempting to
make an alteration to a system that is under contract.

--
Frank Kurz
www.firetechs.net