What Does Interactive Alarm Monitoring Mean?

In this video, Jorge talks about interactive alarm monitoring and how it is used. Interactive alarm monitoring allows a user to control their security system both on-site and remotely. This capability for a system is possible using an interactive service platform like Total Connect 2.0 or Alarm.com.

Total Connect 2.0 is designed exclusively for Honeywell Systems. But alarm systems from manufacturers like 2GIG, Qolsys, Interlogix and DSC will access the Alarm.com service. Both services are quite similar in terms of their functions and features, but they do differ when it comes to compatibility with smart home controllers, like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

In order to be used with an interactive service, an alarm system will need to receiving monitoring service and be connected with the network. For Honeywell Systems, Total Connect 2.0 can be accessed using an internet connection or a cellular connection. But to access Alarm.com, a cellular connection with an ADC cellular communicator is often needed.

Interactive services are critical for users who have self-monitoring plans. This type of monitoring does not include connectivity with a central monitoring station for automatic emergency dispatch. Instead, the user will receive text and/or email alerts to let them know when an alarm event has occurred. From there, it is up to the user to contact the appropriate authorities.

When using a self-monitoring plan, all system notifications are sent through an interactive service before being passed on to the end user. In other words, an end user with a self-monitoring plan will depend on their interactive service to receive a notification when an alarm event occurs. Without the service, they might not know about an alarm until it's too late.

The basic features of an interactive service include arming and disarming, checking the status of sensors, controlling Z-Wave home automation devices and viewing the live feed of programmed security cameras. By using the corresponding mobile app, these actions can all be performed remotely using a smartphone.