DCS Alarm maintanence

Ecco

Ecco

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DSC Alarm maintenance

Hi Guys,

I have a DSC alarm system. The backup battery has gone dead and I need a replacement. Previous owner installed the alarm so not sure who did the original installation.

Any recommendations for somebody to do the work (JHB).

Thanks
 
Last edited:
Battery replacement is a DIY. (I assume you mean DSC, right?)
Same battery as you'd get for a gate motor or electric fence energiser. Open box, remove connectors from battery, remove battery, put in new battery, attach connectors, bob's your mother's brother.
 
Sinbad said:
Battery replacement is a DIY. (I assume you mean DSC, right?)
Same battery as you'd get for a gate motor or electric fence energiser. Open box, remove connectors from battery, remove battery, put in new battery, attach connectors, bob's your mother's brother.
Click to expand...

Yeah DSC. My bad.

Sounds pretty straightforward then. will open up the box and check it out.

PS - who sells these battery replacements? Something i can get at Makro or Builders?
 
If you get a lot of power cuts, or extended power cuts, consider getting a larger capacity battery while you at it
 
Not sure where you are, but just as a guideline, Communica sells these for R172. At least they did before VAT went up. In our experience, these batteries last anywhere between 18 months and 3 years.
 
Thanks for all the responses. Will check the unit out tonight
 
Its really easy. Just open the cabinet where the alarm box are. Disconnect the battery. Take it to any shop that sells that size.

Think you will roughly pay R200. Connect the new one, and reset the alarm (as easy as that)

Done it twice in 15 years.
 
I sorted out this battery issue a while back.

Now I found the remote for arming and disarming the system. Trouble is when I press the button and I am outside, I have no idea if the system registered the key press or not. I thought it was supposed to make a noise.

Also there is like some sort of led lights outside. These don't seem to work anymore.

Anybody know how to get the system to make a noise when the alarm is armed and disarmed?

Second how to fix the led?

Maybe somebody can recommend a installer?
 
That would be in the programming guide.

It would only make a noise or switch on an LED if programmed to do so.
 
Does your alarm have the interactive LCD panel or the one with colored LED lights. If it’s the latter you’re in for some fun times programming with binary options and counting LED flashes until you want to scream.

With the LCD it’s a bit easier to navigate the menu items. Remember though these alarms are built for reliability and longevity. They don’t boot an OS but rely on ICs and logic circuits. So programming can be tricky but doable with a manual and patience.

I know many people don't like paying for contractors to do something they can do themselves with the Internet but when it comes to something as important as an alarm system for your home thats linked to a control center, it may be worth finding a reputable (i.e not rip-off) technician to configure it for you.
 
I actually found the sherlo training video online and reprogrammed all my connected remotes saved me 700 odd rand. Try it yourself first then get a technician if you jot comfortable. It's really not that difficult and you will know immediately if it works or not
 
neoprema said:
Does your alarm have the interactive LCD panel or the one with colored LED lights. If it’s the latter you’re in for some fun times programming with binary options and counting LED flashes until you want to scream.

With the LCD it’s a bit easier to navigate the menu items. Remember though these alarms are built for reliability and longevity. They don’t boot an OS but rely on ICs and logic circuits. So programming can be tricky but doable with a manual and patience.

I know many people don't like paying for contractors to do something they can do themselves with the Internet but when it comes to something as important as an alarm system for your home thats linked to a control center, it may be worth finding a reputable (i.e not rip-off) technician to configure it for you.
Click to expand...

Mine's just the one with the lights and numbers, yeah it's a bit challenging to use
 
Below some info from the manual - dont understand these instructionsScreenshot_DSC1.jpg
Screenshot_DSC2.jpg
 
With all the power issues lately (I have a situation where I need some help please).

I have an old DSC alarm. The power was off for 4 days, and my battery also run'd down.

Now, power got back online, alarm went off. I set the time, and I know the backup battery is working.

The system light is on (and goes off sometimes), when I press *2 => 1 shows, which says alarm service required.

What can I try / do before calling my alarm firm out.

I know the 2 basic things when system is showing (backup battery or time is lost)

Any comments would be appreciated.

Thanks
 
I emailed 4 alarm installers who deal with DSC (details courtesy of google). Asked them to quote me to come out and assist with my issue.

Sent the email out yesterday morning. Have not received a single response back :(

ADT is not our alarm/reaction unit people so cant use them. Our reaction unit people (part of a complex) don't work on systems they did not install in the first place (i bought the house with the unit installed).

Anybody know of DSC alarm people, please let me know.

Thanks
 
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