Based on the FBI’s 2014 crime statistics that involve burglaries, there have been an estimated 8 million property crimes worth about $14.3 billion in financial losses reported by law enforcement. These alarming figures convinced many homeowners that having a home security system is necessary to secure homes from burglaries and other emergency situations such as fire and natural calamities.
A reliable, remotely-operated alarm system is a recent technological advancement that most homeowners consider should to provide maximum protection for their property and loved ones. Having a DIY security system with Internet connectivity empowers you to monitor and control your home security with a click of a button, even when you’re miles away. One of the lowest cost and easiest to setup options is EyezOn’s EnvisaLink 4. It is compatible with many DSC and Honeywell hardwired security panels. Take full control of your home security. Below is a DIY step-by-step guide for an Internet-powered DSC and Honeywell home alarm system.
1. Prepare Your Tools and Devices
Each Internet-based alarm system can be personalized depending on your needs, preference, and house layout. Among the necessary tools and devices for your DSC Alarm are the following: ? Keypad/s, control panel and devices such as multiple sensors (windows, doors, motion, etc.). ? EnvisaLink 4 ? Internet connection and available router port ? Category 5 Ethernet cable ? AWG wires about 6 inches long (red, black yellow, green) ? Small flathead screwdriver ? Wire Cutters
2. Get Your Model Numbers
Your control panel model is important for installing the EnvisaLink 4, the device which allows you to monitor and control your security system through the Internet and your smartphone. You will need it to check compatibility and when setting up your account with EyezOn. For the control panel number (for example, PC1616), check out the sticker at the center of the device.
3. Check Envisalink Compatibility
Check your security system compatibility with EnvisaLink 4. You would know if your system and Envisalink are compatible if your panel number is listed on the website.
4. Install and Program
You will need to physically install and program your alarm system if it is not done already. Most alarm systems come with the relevant manuals, but you may need to download them if you do not have them or for an added level of convenience. There are also quick start guides available that take you through the basics of programming your alarm system. If you have a compatible DSC system there is no extra programming needed for the EnvisaLink 4. If you have a Honeywell, however, there is a small amount of programming that you will need to do. Be sure to read all of the instructions for the EnvisaLink 4 before installing it.
5. Register EnvisaLink Online
Go to EyezOn.com and then follow the link to Create Account. Carefully follow all the instructions provided by EyezOn. Bear in mind that successfully registering there will enable the site to collect your security data and upgrade your board’s software automatically.
6. Install EnvisaLinkGet EnvisaLink 4 IP Communicator Security Interface Module at $106.95. Power down your security panel by removing the wires from the backup battery and then unplugging the transformer from the wall outlet. Pick a spot inside your control panel box to fit Envisalink. Attach the device using the plastic offsets in the metal box. Then, attach the wires using the color as your guide (red, black, green and yellow). Finally, use the Category 5 ethernet cable to connect your Envisalink to the router.
7. Check If EnvisaLink Installed Properly
There are 5 LEDs on the EnvisaLink 4 module. If the module is communicating to the panel and EyezOn properly, all LEDs will be solid green. If this is not the case, refer to the instructions provided by EyezOn for guidance on what the LED indicator means. You can then access your account through the web and test the functions of your EnvisaLink.
8. Change Envisalink Password
Your Envisalink comes with a default password. For better security, you need to change it by going to the Envisalink IP Address (for example, 192.168.1.34/:80). Hover over the “Change User Password” to encode your new password.
9. Create a Mobile Link (Optional) 
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This is an optional step, but it’s a great option to utilize the complete monitoring service of EyezOn. Go to their website and input your login details. Select “Mobile Portal Link” and click the “Generate” button. Open the link using your mobile device. Select “Support” and follow the directions to setup your self-monitoring software. It’s practically the same as downloading and utilizing a smartphone application.
10. Make Sure Envisalink Works
For Envisalink to operate properly, you should turn off your Keypad Blanking. Otherwise you will not always be able to see the current status of the system. In addition, Envisalink only communicates at the speed of 10Mbps. If your Ethernet router is 1Gbps or 100Mbps, it will automatically adjust to 10Mbps. You should now test your system by setting off the alarm and testing the function of all your sensors. Do this in conjunction with your EnvisaLink to confirm that you are getting all your notifications and that your system status is being displayed accurately.
If you have a central station monitoring your system, be sure that you also inform them before doing any testing so that you do not cause them to treat it like an actual emergency. While the main reason to invest in an Internet-powered security system is to deter crime in your home, the benefits of being free from anxiety and knowing your loved ones are protected cannot be easily measured with a price tag. Don’t wait for any crime to strike your home and hurt your family before you take action.
Follow these easy steps on how to install DSC and Honeywell alarms and connect it to the Internet. Even with basic technical know-how, you have the power to have a reliable, but cost-saving security system through DIY installation.
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