GSM Communicator Programming Manual
Quick Start
New Installation?
- Start with General FINMON Programming
- Find your panel type in the relevant chapter
- Follow the specific programming steps
- Test communication before leaving site
Troubleshooting?
- Jump to Chapter 8 - Troubleshooting
- Check Common Issues & Solutions
Manual Organization
Chapter 1: Getting Started
- Basic requirements for all installations
- Trigger input configurations
Chapters 2-7: Panel-Specific Guides
- Each major brand has its own chapter
- Step-by-step programming locations
- Version-specific information
- Tips and tricks sections
Chapter 8: Troubleshooting
- Error codes and meanings
- Common problems across all panels
- When to contact support
Support Resources:
- Finmon Website: www.finmon.co.za
- Contact control room for account codes
- Refer to panel manufacturer manuals for additional details
Color-Coded Serial Cables
- Grey = IDS805
- Red = IDS806, Texecom, x64
- Pink = Paradox
- Chapter 1: Getting Started
- Chapter 2: Caddx Panels
- Chapter 3: DSC Panels
- Chapter 4: IDS Panels
- Chapter 5: Paradox Panels
- Paradox 1738 Programming
- Paradox MG5050 and SP6000 Programming
- Paradox Evo 192 Dialler
- Paradox Evo 848 Programming
- Paradox Evo 192 Triggers
- Paradox MG5050 DIALER + VERSION
- Chapter 6: Texecom Panels
- Chapter 7: Other Panels
- Chapter 8: Troubleshooting
Chapter 1: Getting Started
General FINMON Programming
This page covers the essential programming requirements for all Finmon radio installations.
Required Programming Steps
The following must be programmed for the Finmon radio to work via the dialler correctly:
-
Account Code
- Four digit code as required by control room
- Must be inserted in all required locations (some panels need it in multiple places)
- For six digit fields: program the four digits followed by FF (e.g., 1234FF)
-
Telephone Number
- Program '5555555' in both primary and secondary locations
- Must be exactly seven 5's
-
Communication Format
- Contact ID must be enabled
- This is the standard format for all installations
-
Dial Attempts
- Minimum of 6 attempts required
-
Dial Timeout
- For kiss-on (if applicable): minimum 60 seconds
- If no timeout available, ensure attempts cover:
- 90 seconds for server send
- Additional 90 seconds for direct send
- SMS send time (if enabled)
- Note: SMS limit is 20 free messages per unit per month
-
Dialing Method
- Tone dialling must be enabled (usually default)
- Do not use pulse dialling
-
Special Requirements
- Forced dialling must be enabled (mostly for Caddx panels)
Important Notes
- Always verify all settings before leaving site
- Test communication after programming
- Document any deviations from standard programming
Trigger Inputs Z1-4 on Transmitter
This page covers the configuration of direct trigger inputs on the Finmon transmitter.
Default Configuration
Factory Default Account Code: 9998
When a transmitter is connected to a panel via serial/dialler:
- The panel will automatically update the radio with its account code on first signal
- If the account code is changed on the panel, it will update the radio again
Direct Connection to Z1-4
When connecting directly to trigger inputs (not through a panel):
-
Account Code Programming
- Must be set by dialling into the radio over the internet
- Use Finmon website: www.finmon.co.za
- REFER TO YOUR FINMON CONSULTANT OR CONTROL ROOM
-
Voltage Requirements
- The radio requires a positive 12v trip on any of the triggers.
- Ensure clean, stable 12v signal
Default Trigger Assignments
| Input | Default Function |
|---|---|
| Z1 | Panic |
| Z2 | Burglary |
| Z3 | Open by user / Close by User |
| Z4 | AC Failure |
Reprogramming Triggers
The trigger inputs can be reprogrammed for any Contact ID reporting code:
- Examples: supervisor on site, pump failure, temperature alarm
- Access required via Finmon website
- Contact Finmon support for custom programming
Wiring Notes
- Use appropriate gauge wire for 12v signals
- Keep wiring runs as short as practical
- Avoid running trigger wires parallel to AC power
- Use shielded cable in high-interference environments
Chapter 2: Caddx Panels
Caddx Standard Programming
Standard Caddx panels connected via Tip & Ring
Location Programming
Location 0
- Segment 1 = 13 (force dial)
- Segment 2 = 15 (Tone dialling)
- Segment 3 to 9 = 5555555 (Tel number)
Location 1
- Segment 1 to 4 = [account code]
Location 2
- Enter 1 for Contact ID
- On older panels: Enter 13
Partition Account Codes
If using multiple partitions, program account codes for each:
- Location 89 - Partition 2 account code
- Location 92 - Partition 3 account code
- Location 95 - Partition 4 account code
Important Notes
- Force dial (segment 1 = 13) is critical for Caddx panels
- Always verify tone dialling is enabled (segment 2 = 15)
- Test each partition if multiple partitions are programmed
- Older panels may require "13" in Location 2 instead of "1"
Caddx NX Programming
Caddx NX series panels connected via Tip & Ring
Location Programming
Location 0
- Segment 1 = 13 (force dial)
- Segment 2 = 15 (Tone dialling)
- Segment 3 to 9 = 5555555 (Tel number)
Location 1
- Segment 1 to 4 = [account code]
Location 2
- Enter 1 for Contact ID
Location 4
- LED 2 ON for openings/closings
Partition Account Codes
If using multiple partitions:
- Location 89 - Partition 2 account code
- Location 92 - Partition 3 account code
- Location 95 - Partition 4 account code
Differences from Standard Caddx
- Location 4 specifically controls opening/closing reports
- More reliable communication than older Caddx models
Troubleshooting Tips
- If openings/closings aren't reporting, verify Location 4 LED 2 is ON
- Ensure all partition account codes are programmed if using partitions
- Force dial is still required (Location 0, Segment 1 = 13)
Chapter 3: DSC Panels
DSC Generic Programming
Standard DSC panels connected via Tip & Ring
Basic Programming
Location 301
- Enter 5555555 (tel number)
- LCD Keypad: Backspace and remove 'D', then enter 5's
Location 303
- Enter 5555555 (backup tel number)
Location 310
- Enter four digit account code followed by FF
- Example: For account code 1234, program 1234*66
- The *66 represents FF
Location 311
- Enter four digit account code only (e.g., 1234)
Location 350
- Enter 0303
Location 380
- LED 1 must be ON
Location 381
- LED 7 must be OFF
- This writes Contact ID into reporting codes
24 Hour Test Configuration
Location 702
- LED 2 must be ON
- LED 3 must be ON (enables 24hr test)
PGM Configuration (if using triggers)
For panels with LED keypads (carat in front of numbers):
Location 009
- Program 1010 (System event with options for PGM 1 and 2)
Location 501
- LED 2,3,4,5,6,7,8 ON (Panic on PGM1)
Location 502
- LED 1 and 8 ON (Burglary on PGM2)
Tips for Older Panels
Identifying an old panel:
- Location 310 only accepts 4 digits (no FF option)
For old panels:
- Use Location 360 instead of 350 for Contact ID
- Programming is otherwise similar
DSC Neo Programming
DSC Neo panels with sub-locations (usually with LCD keypads)
Accessing Programming
- Press *8
- Enter Installer Code (default installer code is 5555)
Location Programming
Location 301
- Sub 001: Remove 'D' and enter 555 5555 (Tel number 1)
- Sub 004: Remove 'E' (Tel number 4)
Location 310
- Sub 000: Enter [4-digit account number] (Global)
- Sub 001: Enter [4-digit account number] for Partition 1
Location 350
- Sub 001: Choose Contact ID
Location 377
- Scroll to "Test Tx Cycle"
- Enter 001 days
Location 380
- Ensure communicator is enabled
Programming Tips
- Always remove default characters (D, E) before entering phone numbers
- Test transmission after enabling communicator in Location 380
- Use arrow keys to navigate between sub-locations
- Save changes before exiting each location
Chapter 4: IDS Panels
IDS805 Programming
IDS805 panels with grey serial cable on external serial connector
Basic Programming
Locations 43 to 46
- Enter [Account code]
Location 47
- Enter 6 (Contact ID)
Locations 48 to 54
- Enter 5555555
Location 151
- Default is 4 dial attempts
- Enter 0 to disable the dialer
Important Notes
- Tone and force dialling are enabled by default
- LTE GSM must be powered directly from battery
- Do not power from panel auxiliary output
App Configuration
For mobile app connectivity:
Requirements:
- App version v4.37 or latest vE4.xx
- Serial Port must be set to Orisec/IDS805
- Requires a VALID user code
Troubleshooting
- If no communication, verify power is from battery
- Test with known working user code
IDS806 Programming
IDS806 panels with red serial cable
Basic Programming
Locations 43 to 46
- Enter [Account code]
Location 47
- Enter 6 (Contact ID)
Locations 48 to 54
- Enter 5555555
Location 196
- Must be 000000
- Critical for proper operation
Installation Procedure
Important: Follow this exact sequence:
- Ensure panel power is OFF
- Connect serial port only (no panel power)
- Power up the panel
- Serial port will be automatically detected
Tested Versions
Successfully tested on firmware versions:
- 1.12
- 1.13
- 1.14
- 1.15
- 1.88
Critical Notes
- Location 196 must be all zeros
- Panel reboot required after serial connection
- Red serial cable indicates IDS806 compatibility
IDS816 Programming
IDS816 panel programming locations
Basic Programming
Location 111
- LED 1 ON
- All other LEDs OFF
Location 116
- Enter 5 for Contact ID
Location 121
- Enter 5555555
Location 128 Sub 2
- Enter [Account code]
Programming Tips
- Ensure only LED 1 is on in location 111
- Double-check sublocation 2 for account code
- Test communication after programming
IDS X64 Programming
Complete guide for all X64 variants
Basic Programming (All Versions)
Location 41
- Default setting usually fine
- Set to 5 for Contact ID on Telephone Number 1
Location 46
- Subloc 1 (LED 1): ON for Tone dialling
- Subloc 2 (LED 2): OFF
- Subloc 3 (LED 3): OFF
Location 47
- Set to 6
Location 51
- Enter 5555555 (seven 5's)
Location 61-68 (Account Codes)
- Loc 61: Partition 1 account code (4 digits)
- Loc 62: Partition 2 account code
- Loc 63-68: Partitions 3-8 account codes
Location 71 (72 = P2 -> 78 = P8)
- Serial account code (same as partition account code)
Location 196
- Must be 000000
Location 501-564
- Option 3 must be set to Yes
Enable User Code Bypassing Hold [ * ] → beep → [MASTER CODE] [ * ] [ 1 ] [ 0 ] [ * ] [USER CODE] [ * ] [BITMAP] [ * ] [ # ]
Bitmap(Option 8) Zone Bypass Enable MUST be set to Yes
Open/Close Reporting by User
For X64 Older than 2017
Programming Sequence: Hold [ * ] → beep → [ MASTER CODE ] [ * ] [ 1 ] [ 4 ] [ * ] [ USER CODE ] [ * ] [ BITMAP ] [ * ] [ # ]
Enable User Reporting Codes:
| Subloc/LED | Default | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OFF | Set ON to enable close reporting |
| 2 | OFF | Set ON to enable stay close reporting |
| 3 | OFF | Set ON to enable open reporting |
| 4 | OFF | Set ON to enable siren cancel reporting |
Important: Must be repeated for EACH user requiring open/close reporting!
For X64 New (2017 onwards)
- Enter Installer Mode
- Go to Partition Arm Options (Locations 211-218)
- Enable option 16 (Open/Closing User Reporting), this option is global for all users in the partition.
Arm Without User Code Reporting
For quick-arm and key-switch arming:
Locations 581-588 (Split Reporting Data)
- Subloc 7: Set ON to enable "Armed without user code" reporting
- Location 581 for Partition 1
- Location 582 for Partition 2
- Locations 583-588 for Partitions 3-8
Serial/App Programming
Requirements:
- Panel firmware: V2.80 or above
- GSM firmware: V4.51 or above OR E4.19
- Draw power from Aux 12V, NOT from serial cable
Programming:
- Loc 40: Ensure value 5 (CID) is programmed
- Loc 61: Account code required
- Loc 196: Must be 000000
24V Version Additional:
- Loc 71: Account code required
Troubleshooting
- If you can connect but get Bypassed zones and are unable to do anything: Check Loc 196 = 000000
- After changing Loc 196: Remove panel from app and re-add
- Cannot control panel: Verify user code
- Connection issues: Check power source (must be Aux 12V)
Chapter 5: Paradox Panels
Paradox 1738 Programming
Very old panel - defaults are mostly wrong, use settings below
Programming Locations
Location 087
- Enter 001 for daily test
Location 110
- Enter 0000
Location 131
- LED 1 OFF (report disarm always)
Dialer Options
Location 135 (Tone dial)
- LED 3, 4, 5 ON
- All other LEDs OFF
Location 136 (Auto Contact ID)
- LED 3 ON
- All other LEDs OFF
Communication Settings
Location 140
- LED 5 ON (Contact ID)
Location 143
- P1 Account code
Location 144
- P2 Account code
Location 151
- Tel number 5555555 (5x7)
Location 152
- Tel number 5555555 (5x7)
Important Notes
- This is a very old panel model
Paradox MG5050 and SP6000 Programming
Tested on Plus range version 1.30
Basic Programming
Section 810
- Select 44 for Contact ID
Section 811
- Account number for partition 1
Section 812
- Account number for partition 2
Section 815
- Enter 5555555
Section 817
- Enter 5555555
Enabling the Dialer
The status light on panel will be solid when dialling. If not dialling, check:
Section 800
- Option 8 must be OFF
- Options 4, 5, 6, 7 must be ON
Section 802
- Options 1, 2, 5, 6 must be ON
Section 803
- Options 1, 2, 5, 6 must be ON
Section 805
- Option 2 must be ON
Opening/Closing Reports
If closings work but not openings:
Section 801
- All options must be OFF
Babyware Programming
If using Babyware, these are MANDATORY:
Section 910
- Must be cleared using sleep button (once per digit)
Section 911
- Must be cleared using sleep button (once per digit)
Troubleshooting Tips
-
Panel won't send despite correct programming:
- Rarely, a default may be needed
- Power down, default, reprogram
-
Account number issues:
- MUST be entered at both 811 and 812
- With LED keypad: type account code twice at loc 811
-
PGM trigger issues:
- Jumper on motherboard above PGMs sets positive trigger
- One model only sets one PGM as positive (not both)
- Paradox fixing in next PCB version
-
6500 Panel on serial:
- Does not send account code
- Only sends signal ONCE
Clear Event Buffer
For 5050 and 6000:
- Enter programming mode
- Press Stay key once
- Press Clear key once
- Power panel down
- Power up and send signals
For SP65:
Paradox Evo 192 Dialler
Programming sections for the Evo dialler
Basic Dialler Setup
Section 3036
- Option 3 must be ON to enable the dialler
Section 3061-3068 (Account Codes)
- 3061: Partition 1 account code
- 3062: Partition 2 account code
Section 3070 (Format)
- Enter 4 x 5 for Contact ID
Section 3071 (Telephone Number)
- Enter 5555555
Event Reporting Configuration
Sections 3127 to 3829
- Check partition options for event call directions
- These sections tell the panel what events need to be reported
Section 4031
- Enable all reporting codes for Contact ID
Important Programming Tips
After all programming:
- REBOOT the panel - Critical step!
- Disable the dialer module
- Re-enable the dialer module, This clears the module for correct dialling.
Account Code Rules:
- NEVER use account codes starting with "0" (e.g., 0001)
- Use 1001 instead
- Can use hex A: 1AA1 (press "stay" button for hex A)
Troubleshooting
- If panel won't communicate after programming, always reboot
- Disable/re-enable dialer module if issues persist
Paradox Evo 848 Programming
Older Evo model programming
Basic Programming
Location 521 (Dialer options)
- LED 3, 4, 5, 6 must be ON
- All others OFF
Location 550 (Format Contact ID)
- Enter 5555
Location 551
- Enter [4-digit account code]
Location 561
- Enter [Phone number]
Important Notes
After Programming:
- Always REBOOT the panel after completing programming
Account Code Rules:
- NEVER use account codes starting with "0" (e.g., 0001)
- Use 1001 instead
- Can use hex A: 1AA1 (press "stay" button for hex A)
Troubleshooting
-
Panel not communicating after programming
- Reboot is mandatory
- Check all LEDs in location 521
-
Account code issues
- Avoid leading zeros
- Try hex characters if numeric codes fail
Paradox Evo 192 Triggers
Configuration for direct trigger inputs using PGM outputs
Prerequisites
Before starting:
- Ensure jumper for PGMs is set to positive on panel motherboard
- If not set:
- Shut down panel
- Change jumper position
- Power up again
Important: PGM1 stays negative - only PGM 2, 3, and 4 become positive
PGM2 Configuration (Panic)
Location 0920
- Enter: 030 255 000 000
Location 0928
- Enter: 005
Location 0929
- LEDs 1 and 3 ON
PGM3 Configuration (Burglary)
Location 0930
- Enter: 024 255 000 000
Location 0938
- Enter: 005
Location 0939
- LEDs 1 and 3 ON
PGM4 Configuration (Open and Close)
Location 0940
- Enter: 064 255 000 000
Location 0948
- Enter: 000
Location 0949
- All LEDs OFF
Wiring Notes
- Connect radio's Z4 (AC fail) to 1st AC connect block on panel
- Keep PGM wiring away from high voltage lines
- Test each PGM after configuration
Paradox MG5050 DIALER + VERSION
Extended programming guide for MG5050 with dialer module
Enable Dialer
Section 800
- Put numbers 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 OFF (this enables dialer)
Basic Configuration
Section 810
- Enter 44
Section 811
- Enter account number for telephone 1
Section 812
- Enter account number for telephone 2
Section 815
- Enter telephone number of base station/Radio
- Press Enter after entering number
Event Call Direction
Section 801
- Put all numbers OFF (Opening signal must always report)
Section 802
- Number 1 ON (Opening/Closing signals will report)
- Number 5 ON (Burglary Signals will report)
Section 803
- Number 1 ON (Tamper signals will report)
- Number 5 ON (Trouble signals will report)
Section 804
- Number 1 ON (Special codes will report)
Section 805
- Only number 2 ON
Additional Settings
Section 966 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Enter
Section 967 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Enter
Chapter 6: Texecom Panels
Texecom 412/816/832 Programming
Standard Texecom panels with red serial cable
Version Information
Texecom 412/816:
- Known working app versions: V16.13
Texecom 832:
- Known working versions: v13, v14 (E)
Note: Texecom Elite panels are NOT supported on app, but work with serial for CID
Basic Programming
Access Programming:
- Installer code + Menu + 9
- Default installer code: 1234
Location 70
- Switch ON LEDs 1, 2, 5, and 8
- Press ARM button to confirm
Location 71 Programming:
- 71/0 = 5555555 (tel number) - Press ARM button
- 71/1 = [4-digit account number] - Press ARM button
- 71/2 = 4 (Contact ID) - No need to press ARM
- 71/3 = 6 (dial attempts) - No need to press ARM
- 71/5 = Switch ON all LEDs - Press ARM button
- 71/8 = LED 8 OFF for Tip & Ring / ON for Serial
Location 76
- 76/8 = LED 8 ON (Dialler)
Serial Connection Configuration
For serial connection ONLY:
- 71/8 = LED 8 ON
Texecom 412 Serial Specific
Known working app version: V14
Location 70
- Switch ON LEDs 1, 2, and 8 only
- Press ARM button
Additional for Serial:
- 71/8 = Switch ON 8
- 76/5 = 3 (com IP on Comm 1)
OR (NOT BOTH)
- 76/9 = 3 (com IP on Comm 2)
Converting from Serial to Tip & Ring
If panel was previously on serial and now using Tip & Ring:
- 71/8 = 0
- 76/5 = 0
Special Notes
Texecom 816:
- Serial cable connection must be a Texecom GSM type
Texecom MiAlarm PANEL MODE
Configuration for MiAlarm compatibility
Note: Texecom Elite panels are NOT supported on app, but work with serial for CID
Programming Steps
-
Enter Programming Mode
- Enter Installer Code
- Press Menu button
- Press 9
-
Location 76/0
- Press location 76
- Press sublocation 0
- Ensure LED 1 is ON
- If not ON: Press 1, then YES/Tick button
-
Location 76/2
- Press location 76
- Press sublocation 2
- Enter UDL code: 1234
- Press YES/Tick button
-
Location 76/5
- Press location 76
- Press sublocation 5
- Press 3
-
Exit Programming
- Press Menu button
- Press 99
Important Notes
- This configuration enables MiAlarm compatibility
Chapter 7: Other Panels
Orisec Configuration
Orisec panels support both Tip/Ring and Com Port connections
Orisec Tip/Ring Configuration
- Enter Installer Code
- Select Programming Menu → Tick/Enter
- Go to ARC Set up
- Phone Number: 555 5555
- Account Number: As supplied by control room/software
- Protocol: Contact ID
- Dial Seq: 1
- Any issues with not sending - RESTART PANEL
Orisec Com Port Configuration
- Enter Installer Code
- Select Programming Menu → Tick/Enter
- Com Port Setup → Tick/Enter
- Select Com Port number 2
- Set mode to FINMON (Required for app)
- Hold Tick to go back
- Go to ARC Set up
- Phone Number: F555 5555 (Note the 'F' prefix)
- Account Number: As supplied by control room/software
- Protocol: Contact ID
- Dial Seq: 6
- Any issues with not sending - RESTART PANEL
App Configuration
Requirements:
- App version must be v4.37
- Serial Port must be set to Orisec/IDS
- MUST be set to FINMON under Comm Port Setup
Critical Notes
IF YOU AREN'T GETTING SIGNALS OUT:
- REBOOT THE PANEL
- If serial port connected with panel powered up, it won't be detected
- Always power cycle after connecting serial
Risco Configuration
Complete programming guide for Risco panels
Accessing Programming
Monitoring Station Setup
Configure the following:
- TYPE = VOICE
- CHANNEL = PSTN/GSM
- ACCOUNT = 6 digit code provided by office (e.g., 001052)
- PHONE = 555 555 5
- MS RETRIES = 3
Timer Configuration
- CANCEL DELAY = 0
- ABORT ALARM = 0
Periodic Test Setup
- TIME = 2200 (for 10:00 PM test)
- RECURRENCE = EVERY 1 DAY
Report Split Configuration
- ARM/DISARM = "NON" for DOMESTIC / "CALL MS1 ONLY" for COMMERCIAL
- MS URGENT = "CALL MS1 ONLY"
- MS NON URGENT = "CALL MS1 ONLY"
Cloud Settings
Back to main COMMUNICATION menu
Navigate to "CLOUD":
- MS CALL ALL = ENABLED
- FM CALL ALL = ENABLED
Exit Programming
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
General Troubleshooting Steps
-
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.
-
Check Programming
- Correct serial port selected
- FINMON mode enabled (for Orisec)
- Account code programmed
- User code valid
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
Panel Not Sending Signals
Check these first:
- Account code programmed correctly (4 digits, 6 digits with FF)
- Phone number is exactly 5555555
- Contact ID enabled
- Dialer enabled (check specific panel locations)
- 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
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)
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
Serial Connection Problems
Universal Serial Troubleshooting:
- Never connect serial with panel powered
- Always power cycle after connection
- Check cable color coding:
- Grey = IDS805
- Red = IDS806, Texecom
- Pink = Paradox
- Draw power correctly:
- IDS805: Serial power only
- Others: Aux power, not serial
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
Signal Strength Problems
Improving Signal:
- Relocate GSM unit higher
- Use extension antenna
- Avoid metal enclosures
- Check SIM card seating
- Verify antenna connection
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
When All Else Fails
-
Document everything:
- Panel model and version
- Error codes/messages
- LED states
- What works/doesn't work
-
Progressive testing:
- Test with known good equipment
- Try alternative connection method
- Isolate variables one at a time
-
Contact support with:
- Panel type and version
- GSM firmware version
- Detailed symptoms
- Steps already tried