Keypads

Keypads may look similar to what you see here.  Keypads require a four digit code plus a command code ( in some cases another number) in order to arm and or disarm the alarm system.   In addition to numerical buttons,  many keypads have emergency codes, buttons, etc that activate a specific alarm condition.  The manufacter of keypads include but are not limited to:  Ademco, Moose, DSC, FBI, Napco,  Apex are just a few of the most common manufacterers of keypads.   Click on the above name manufacterer of keypads for more information on these specific models.

Some keypads have keys that have emergency dispatch symbols next to them,  Others do not. The keys located on the left side of the keypad pictured above on the far left are programmed to send for the police department.  You will note that they do not have any emergency symbols next to them.  Pictured below is a keypad with emergency decals next to the button that sends an alarm for that specific alarm condition.  We strongly recommend that if you have keys on the keypad programmed for these kind of alarm activations that they are labeled.  Otherwise a false alarm could result by accidentally hitting one of the keys located on the left side of the keypad. These hidden keypad features are often the source of many false alarms.  To remove these keypad emergency button features requires programming and you will need your alarm contractor to make changes to the system.   If you need an alarm professional then feel free to contact one of our professionals listed in our referral directory.  They can fix the problems and also give you a orientation on how to use your alarm system.

Akarn keypads with Alpha Numeric Displays provide current alarm system status and can be a great tool in reducing false alarms. Check with your alarm contractor and see if you can upgrade to a alpha numeric keypad. Understanding the keypad and the different messages are very important in proper operation of any alarm system. If you need a manual then you can contact your alarm professional. You can find alarm professionals here.                                                                     

Entry and Exit Time Issues

Many false alarms are caused by users whom enter the arming code on the keypad and exit the business and or residence. They forget something and rush back in to get it.  Then they quickly leave the residence and or business thinking that they didn't trigger the entry time on the alarm system.  Many times they trigger the entry zone and don't even know it.   They are well on their way before the alarm system goes into an alarm condition. 

Another possible cause of false alarms is due to exit time issues. This relates to programming.  One possible cause of false alarms at the keypad is inadequate exit time that has been programmed into the alarm system.  This is something the alarm installer had control over at the time of installation.  You may want to have the alarm installer come out and add more time to your exit time so that you can avoid false alarms. This can be done during a routine service call,  maintenance work, test and inspections, etc.

The same issues can be a problem when entering a protected residence and or business.  If you find that you have to run to turn off the alarm system then you need to have the alarm installer add more entry time to the alarm system.  A good rule of thumb is sixty seconds for entry time and ninety seconds for exit time.  If you are one that likes to carry things into the residence before you turn off the alarm system then you should have more time