# Chapter 8: Troubleshooting

# miAlarm Troubleshooting

Common error codes and solutions for MiAlarm connectivity


#### Device Busy Error

**Meaning:** Unit is attempting to change mode

**Solutions:**
- Wait 30-60 seconds and retry
- If persistent, power cycle the GSM unit
- Check if another user is accessing the system
- Verify no other apps are connected

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#### General Troubleshooting Steps

1. **Verify Basics**
   - Panel powered on
   - Serial cable properly connected
   - GSM unit has power
   - SIM card properly inserted
   - That signals are being sent via Serial Cable.

2. **Check Programming**
   - Correct serial port selected
   - FINMON mode enabled (for Orisec)
   - Account code programmed
   - User code valid


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#### When to Contact Support

Contact Finmon support if:
- Error persists after all troubleshooting
- New error codes appear
- Hardware failure suspected
- Programming assistance needed

# Common Issues & Solutions

Cross-panel troubleshooting guide

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#### Panel Not Sending Signals

**Check these first:**
1. Account code programmed correctly (4 digits, 6 digits with FF)
2. Phone number is exactly 5555555
3. Contact ID enabled
4. Dialer enabled (check specific panel locations)
5. Sufficient dial attempts (minimum 6)

**Solutions:**
- Power cycle the panel
- Clear event buffer
- Check for dial tone (if applicable)
- Verify no other communication devices attached

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#### Signals Send Once Then Stop

**Common Causes:**
- Event buffer full
- Acknowledgment not received
- Incorrect format selected

**Solutions:**
- Clear panel event buffer
- Verify Contact ID format
- Check kiss-off timeout settings
- Ensure forced dialing enabled (Caddx)

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#### Account Code Issues

**Rules across all panels:**
- Never use leading zeros (0001 → 1001)
- Paradox: Try hex A (1AA1)
- DSC: Add FF suffix if needed (1234FF)
- Ensure code in ALL required locations

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#### Serial Connection Problems

**Universal Serial Troubleshooting:**
1. **Never** connect serial with panel powered
2. Always power cycle after connection
3. Check cable color coding:
   - Grey = IDS805
   - Red = IDS806, Texecom
   - Pink = Paradox
4. Draw power correctly:
   - IDS805: Serial power only
   - Others: Aux power, not serial

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#### App Connection Issues

**Common Requirements:**
- Correct app version for panel
- Valid user code with permissions
- Proper serial mode selected
- Location 196 = 000000 (IDS)
- FINMON mode (Orisec)

**Quick Fixes:**
- Remove and re-add panel in app
- Power cycle GSM unit
- Check user code permissions
- Verify serial port settings

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#### Signal Strength Problems

**Improving Signal:**
- Relocate GSM unit higher
- Use extension antenna
- Avoid metal enclosures
- Check SIM card seating
- Verify antenna connection

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#### Power Issues

**Best Practices:**
- Connect to battery directly when specified
- Use adequate wire gauge
- Check voltage at GSM unit (11-14V)
- Separate power from serial data
- Use dedicated power supply if needed

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#### When All Else Fails

1. **Document everything:**
   - Panel model and version
   - Error codes/messages
   - LED states
   - What works/doesn't work

2. **Progressive testing:**
   - Test with known good equipment
   - Try alternative connection method
   - Isolate variables one at a time

3. **Contact support with:**
   - Panel type and version
   - GSM firmware version
   - Detailed symptoms
   - Steps already tried