I found a spot where a keypad used to be, but it’s been removed. There are only three wires—black, red, and green. From what I understand, most systems need four wires. It doesn’t look like one broke off, so I’m wondering why it would be like this. Any ideas?
Not all keypads require four wires.
Steve said:
Not all keypads require four wires.
Thanks!
This seems to be a Networx NX system. I’ve read that if you’re looking to retrofit, it makes sense to swap the panel but keep the sensors. Is that true?
Would you know if that’s the best route?
Interlogix keypads only need three wires—DC power and data share a ground.
Bob said:
Interlogix keypads only need three wires—DC power and data share a ground.
That makes sense! Thanks!
Do you know of any ways to retrofit this system to work with HomeKit or other smart home setups?
@Darren
If you can find an automation module, you might be able to integrate it with Home Assistant or HomeBridge. However, these modules are hard to find now.
If you’re looking for a more modern solution, I’d recommend a Qolsys IQ 4 Panel. It supports PowerG sensors and works with Alarm.com, which has some integrations available. If you want HomeKit specifically, you may need a workaround via HomeBridge.
@Bob
HomeKit support is a must for me. Any idea which systems are best for that?
I also really want to keep my existing wired sensors—I’d rather not replace them if I don’t have to.
Darren said:
@Bob
HomeKit support is a must for me. Any idea which systems are best for that?
I also really want to keep my existing wired sensors—I’d rather not replace them if I don’t have to.
If you want to keep your wired sensors, you might need a takeover module, which converts wired sensors into wireless ones that can be used with modern panels like the Qolsys IQ 4.
If you want a fully wired system, a Honeywell Vista 20P with an Envisalink EVL-4 module would be a great choice since it has solid HomeBridge support.
@Bob
That makes sense. I’d rather avoid rewiring anything, so the takeover module idea sounds good.
Are there any limitations with using a takeover module vs. a new wired system?
Darren said:
@Bob
That makes sense. I’d rather avoid rewiring anything, so the takeover module idea sounds good.
Are there any limitations with using a takeover module vs. a new wired system?
Not really, unless you plan to add a ton of new sensors. The main limitation is that the takeover module converts all sensors to wireless, so you’re limited to whatever wireless range your panel has. But for most home setups, it works well.
If it was a Concord or Networx panel, three wires make sense. The green and black wires are interchangeable and serve as the common ground.
Luchivya said:
If it was a Concord or Networx panel, three wires make sense. The green and black wires are interchangeable and serve as the common ground.
That helps! Thanks!
Do you know of any ways to modernize this system for HomeKit or Home Assistant integration?
@Darren
For Networx, if you can find a compatible module, you can integrate it with Alarm.com, but direct HomeKit support is tricky.
Honestly, you’d be better off replacing the panel with something like a Qolsys IQ 4 or a Vista 20P, both of which have better integration options.
@Luchivya
That makes sense.
Would switching panels allow me to keep my wired sensors? And would the three-wire setup for the keypads be an issue if I upgraded?
Darren said:
@Luchivya
That makes sense.
Would switching panels allow me to keep my wired sensors? And would the three-wire setup for the keypads be an issue if I upgraded?
Yes, you can keep your wired sensors with a takeover module.
As for the keypads, if your new panel requires four wires, you might have to run an additional wire. But if you’re getting a modern touchscreen panel like the Qolsys IQ 4, it won’t matter since those use power differently.
If you want to keep the Networx panel, you can still get an Alarm.com module for it:
https://www.alarmgrid.com/products/alarm-com-nx-410-us-vz-lteup
Alarm.com service includes cellular, so you don’t have to pay for a separate Verizon data plan. But if you’re looking for flexibility, a new panel might be a better long-term choice.