Advent Security

How does the alarm system communicate with the central station?

Traditionally the alarm system has been connected to your regular phone line.  However, since the technology of cellular phones, cable and FIOS, Advent has been able to adapt to monitor the alarm system though a variety of services.  Additionally, if there is no phone service in the home or business, we have stand alone cellular equipment that can be used for the communication of the alarm system only.

What happens when my alarm goes off?

Depending on the type of signal received, the central station operator will try to make contact with someone at the premises to determine if the alarm was triggered accidentally or not.  If someone answers the phone, the operator will ask for a PASSCODE or PASSWORD.  This code or word is set up ahead of time by the end user.  If the PASSCODE or PASSWORD is given, then the central station operator will know that the alarm signal was not an emergency.  IF no one answers the phone or if the proper code is not given, the operator will dispatch the proper authorities.  Once the authorities are notified the operator will proceed by notifying someone on a pre-determined emergency “call list”.

I accidentally set my alarm off and was not contacted by the central station?

If you accidentally set your alarm off, typically you immediately shut it off.  In doing that you may have cancelled the alarm prior to the alarm panel dialing out and sending the original signal.  It is always best to contact the central station to check your event history.  If we have not received a signal, it is best to test your alarm to make sure that it is communicating properly.

When should I test my alarm system?

We recommend that you test the communication of your alarm system on a monthly basis or anytime you have a change made or have work done at your home that may affect your phone lines.   To test your system, contact the central station at 215.576.7111 so that an operator can put your system on test.  Once the system is on test, you should arm the system.   After the system is set, open a protected door wait for the delay (if applicable) and then the loud siren will sound; then you can enter your code to silence the alarm.  Wait a few minutes and then call the central station to verify the receipt of the alarm signal.  If the central station operator has no record of receiving the signal, please ask for a service technician to contact you.

I am moving and no longer need the monitoring service at my current home or business,
what should I do?

If you are moving, it is important to contact a customer service rep at 215.576.7111 ext. 809.  We will help you navigate the process of getting your monitoring service canceled as well as get you any information you may need for your new location.