Currently have vista20p, looking at options

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Hello,

I currently have a Vista20p, mostly hardwired system, 4 wireless motions (D-5890i), 19 zones (15 are hardwired). Installed this system as a conversion from a Bosch system, reused all of the wired, replaced resistors (as they are at panel) to Vista 20p. Using 3 keypads currently, 6271C and qty 2 6160. I had a VIsta ICM module for Internet connectivity and monitor it myself. System works great, test it annually for continuity. I have had to repair a few contacts over the last 10 years, but all is working good. I installed the Vista 20p myself, working with the-then-dealer to program the system to my specifications.

As I am traveling much more now, I want to add central monitoring. I started looking into this, along with my other track of smart devices and learned how the alarm.com (and TC) has embraced Z Wave and have added these type of devices into the service (and video). Interesting. So, I am thinking two approaches.

  1. Keep great working Honeywell Vista20p and the SEM solution. However, I would want to refresh the qty 2 6160 keypads with a modern graphical touch pad, e.g. 6280. WOuld these be a simple remove/replace for the 6160 (and perhaps the 6271C)? Cost = SEM $199, new keypads 2 x $150 (found on amazon or ebay or here if you sell them). So ~$500. SEM would allow integration to alarm.com + add Z Wave functionality. Any downsides of SEM?

  2. Like the Qolsys. Convert all keypads to the IQ 2 + two remote keypads, using the 16 hardwire converter. I calculate ~$1200 to go this way. Reuse the current motions with the translator. Perhaps I can sell my Vista panel and keypads, used for ~$200 to help offset, but not calculating that.

Anyone have experience doing this conversion using a translator, reusing the motion, using the hardwire converter? I have read a few blogs about people having problems with converting hardwire systems into a 2GIG or Qolsys, but it appears to be related to older, un-kept wiring/contacts/resistors. Other thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

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WOuld these be a simple remove/replace for the 6160 (and perhaps the 6271C)? Cost = SEM $199, new keypads 2 x $150 (found on amazon or ebay or here if you sell them). So ~$500. SEM would allow integration to alarm.com + add Z Wave functionality. Any downsides of SEM?

The 6280 would use the same four wire configuration and up to 4 can be used with a 20P I believe.

If you are happy with the system as it is, adding the SEM would be the simplest way of getting Alarm.com functionality. You do need the installer code to get started though.

Anyone have experience doing this conversion using a translator, reusing the motion, using the hardwire converter? I have read a few blogs about people having problems with converting hardwire systems into a 2GIG or Qolsys, but it appears to be related to older, un-kept wiring/contacts/resistors. Other thoughts?

The hardwire 16 for Qolsys, or TAKE-345 for 2GIG both pretty easily handle taking hardwired zones and translating them to wireless zones for their respective panel. For installation steps see the video links below:

2GIG TAKE-345
Qolsys Hardwire 16 or here (install vertically, horizontal for video frame)

Difficulties typically lie in unknown zone problems or unlabeled wires, correct. The Hardwire 16 looks for specific resistance which it gathers when the zone is learned in individually, so you cannot swap hardwired zone inputs on the fly, but it is otherwise very similar to the 2GIG installation.