Upgrading old Paradox alarm system

[derp90]

I have an old Paradox alarm system that's completely wired with a keypad that arms it. The sensors all work, I have 2 PIR ones and then those door ones that alarm when a door/window is opened. There's also an arming light and a few panic buttons.

The only problem is that the only way to arm and disarm is through the keypad, there's no connection to anything. No remote, no phone app. I think the only alert is probably via an old landline.

What's the best way to 'convert' this system into a modern one where I can arm it easily using my phone for example, and then if it gets triggered I get alerts to my phone and it could also alert a monitoring company?

 

[derp90]

I think it's an SP6000: https://www.paradox.com/Products/default.asp?CATID=6


EDIT: It's an SPC-1738

 

[SmartPad]

I cant speak to the compatibility without the exact panel models etc, but you could look at one of the paradox ip1xx modules https://www.paradox.com/Products/default.asp?PID=404 This option doesn't really provide a way for an external monitoring company to monitor the system unless you have one of the paradox systems with two serial connections so they can connect their system and you can connect yours (SP6000+ pictured below has dual serial connections but I don't believe this is very common).

The IP1xx modules do mean you can Link your alarm system into Home Assistant if you are running that, and then automate various aspects of your alarm. There are a few things to figure out to get the integration working, and you need to track down the correct module for your system etc. but its worked well in our experience. (there is also an option to use serial over ESP32 if you are up for an electronics project https://github.com/ParadoxAlarmInterface/pai/wiki/Connection-methods#serial-over-ip-esp32).


If you are already connected to an armed response company (or planning to get connected to one), they may be able to come and replace the RF radio module with a "Falcon" unit that connects to an app called ArmMe. Depending on the Armed response company... costs and billing structures may vary.

There are also the Olarm units, but those carry a monthly subscription, I've heard that some armed response companies will work with these units, but again ymmv based on who the monitoring/armed response company in your area is.

The last two options if compatible are probably the easiest options for app control AND having the system monitored by a third party.

 

[chrisc]

The Olarm option will work on an SP6000, later than version 7.x. This is easy to use

If you have an older version (these panels have been sold since 2001), you may, depending on the version, be able to upgrade it using Babyware.

To check this, look at Paradox.com (you may have to register) and see what firmware is available. You cannot jump from version 4,x to 7,x, but do it in stages

The board version is on the sticker shown above

If your alarm is a 1728 or 1738EX, then it cannot be used

 

[derp90]

Okay, I had a look at the panel model. It's an SPC-1738, version 2.10

Sorry for the initial mistake.

 

[derp90]

I cant speak to the compatibility without the exact panel models etc, but you could look at one of the paradox ip1xx modules https://www.paradox.com/Products/default.asp?PID=404 This option doesn't really provide a way for an external monitoring company to monitor the system unless you have one of the paradox systems with two serial connections so they can connect their system and you can connect yours (SP6000+ pictured below has dual serial connections but I don't believe this is very common).

The IP1xx modules do mean you can Link your alarm system into Home Assistant if you are running that, and then automate various aspects of your alarm. There are a few things to figure out to get the integration working, and you need to track down the correct module for your system etc. but its worked well in our experience. (there is also an option to use serial over ESP32 if you are up for an electronics project https://github.com/ParadoxAlarmInterface/pai/wiki/Connection-methods#serial-over-ip-esp32).
View attachment 1789224

If you are already connected to an armed response company (or planning to get connected to one), they may be able to come and replace the RF radio module with a "Falcon" unit that connects to an app called ArmMe. Depending on the Armed response company... costs and billing structures may vary.

There are also the Olarm units, but those carry a monthly subscription, I've heard that some armed response companies will work with these units, but again ymmv based on who the monitoring/armed response company in your area is.

The last two options if compatible are probably the easiest options for app control AND having the system monitored by a third party.

The Olarm option will work on an SP6000, later than version 7.x. This is easy to use

If you have an older version (these panels have been sold since 2001), you may, depending on the version, be able to upgrade it using Babyware.

To check this, look at Paradox.com (you may have to register) and see what firmware is available. You cannot jump from version 4,x to 7,x, but do it in stages

The board version is on the sticker shown above

If your alarm is a 1728 or 1738EX, then it cannot be used

Thanks both. Sorry for the initial mistake. Turns out the panel is an SPC-1738 (version 2.10).

Does this mean I need to replace the whole panel? Can I stil use the rest of the sensors, panic buttons, etc.?

 

[chrisc]

Yes, unfortunately. The 1738 does not support any add-ins you need to use

You will find the SP6000 far more flexible. It also supports li-ion charging. Dealer price for panel and keypad is about R1700

Use everything else and the steel box

 

[derp90]

Yes, unfortunately. The 1738 does not support any add-ins you need to use

You will find the SP6000 far more flexible. It also supports li-ion charging. Dealer price for panel and keypad is about R1700

Use everything else and the steel box

I have gotten someone to quote on I think either the SP6000 or the SP5050. Both coupled with Olarm and hopefully using all the existing sensors for now.

Any idea on what sort of price I should be accepting for supply and installation by a reseller?

Thank you!