Difference Between Alpha-Numeric Programming Keypads and Fixed-English Keypads

In this video, Joe explains the differences between alphanumeric keypads and fixed-English keypads. Both types of keypads can be used with hardwired security systems, such as control panels from the Honeywell VISTA Series. A keypad will serve as the primary controller for the Honeywell VISTA System.

The main difference between these keypads is that an alphanumeric keypad is able to display panel information in full english. But a fixed-English keypad only provides numeric information. With an alphanumeric keypad, zone information and complete panel status can be displayed. This is very important for performing certain system functions with the keypad.

Only an alphanumeric keypad should be used for deep installer programming. This is because an alphanumeric keypad can properly display the programming fields. But with a fixed-English keypad, a user will essentially be blindly programming the system. Although it is technically possible to program a VISTA System with a fixed-English keypad, it is strongly discouraged, as a user could very easily mess up important system settings by mistake.

Both an alphanumeric keypad and a fixed-English keypad can be used for basic panel functions, such as arming and disarming. But if a user is only going to purchase a single keypad for their system, they should get an alphanumeric keypad. This is so that they will be able to successfully navigate any programming menus for the system. If a user already has an alphanumeric keypad and they only need a secondary keypad, a fixed-English keypad will generally work just fine. But an alphanumeric keypad is necessary for programming purposes.

An example of an alphanumeric keypad is the Honeywell 6160, while an example of a fixed-English keypad is the Honeywell 6150. There are also "RF" versions of both these keypads that will allow compatible wireless sensors to be used with the system.

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