Honeywell Ademco VISTA 32FB Security System
System Overview
General
Your Honeywell security system consists of a main control panel, at least one keypad, and various sensors strategically positioned throughout the premises. The system offers you three forms of protection: burglary, fire, and emergency. The keypad provides full control of system operation. The system uses microcomputer technology to monitor all protection zones and system status and provides appropriate information for display on the keypad(s) used with the system, and initiates appropriate alarms. Your system may also have been programmed to automatically transmit alarm or status messages over the phone lines to a central alarm monitoring station.
This manual is designed to help you become comfortable operating your system. Each function is explained in step-by-step detail. We recommend you read the SYSTEM OVERVIEW section to become familiar with the terminology and the basic features of the system. NOTE: All references in this manual for the number of zones, user codes, partitions, VistaKey modules, the master partition, and the event log capacity use the VISTA-128FB’s features. The following table lists the differences between the VISTA-32FB and the VISTA-128FB control panels. All other features are identical for both panels. Also, all procedures in this guide for entering zone numbers or user numbers show 3-digit entries, which are valid for the VISTA-128FB.
For the VISTA-32FB, these entries are only 2 digits.
A Partitioned System
Simply stated, a partitioned system shares one physical alarm system among different users, each with their own requirements. For the most part, you as a user need not know about other users and their structure in the system, but from time to time, you may see display messages which indicate the system is in use by another user. Do not be concerned, this is normal. Refer to the ACCESSING OTHER PARTITIONS section for additional information.
Zones
Your system’s sensing devices have been assigned to various “zones.” For example, the sensing device on your Entry/Exit door may have been assigned to zone 001, sensing devices on windows in the master bedroom to zone 002, and so on. These numbers will appear on the display, along with an alpha descriptor for that zone (if programmed), when an alarm or trouble condition occurs.
Fire Protection
The fire protection portion of your security system (if used) is always on and will sound an alarm if a fire condition is detected. Refer to the FIRE ALARM SYSTEM section for important information concerning fire protection, smoke detectors, and planning emergency exit routes from your facility.
Burglary Protection
The burglary protection portion of your system must be turned on or “armed” before it will sense burglary alarm conditions. Your system provides four modes of burglary protection: STAY, AWAY, INSTANT, and MAXIMUM, and even allows you to BYPASS selected zones of protection while leaving the rest of the system armed. The system also provides a CHIME mode for alerting users to the opening and closing of doors and windows while the system is disarmed. Refer to the other sections of this manual for procedures for using these features.
The following table lists the four different arming modes and the results of each.
Alarms
When an alarm occurs, both the keypad and external sounders will sound, and the keypad will display the zone(s) causing the alarm. If your system is connected to a central monitoring station, an alarm message will also be sent. To stop the alarm from sounding, simply disarm the system.
Memory of Alarm
When an alarm condition occurs, the keypad displays the number(s) of the zone(s) that caused the problem, and displays the type of alarm (ex., FIRE, ALARM). It remains displayed until it is cleared by disarming the system (see DISARMING THE SYSTEM section).
Speed Key (Macros)
The system can store a string of up to 32 keystrokes, which can be activated anytime by simply pressing the “A, B, C, or D” keys. This feature can be used to make it easy to perform multiple functions at once (such as going to another partition to bypass a zone), or it can be used to simplify an everyday, repeated procedure. Refer to the SPEED KEY section for procedures for using this feature.
Using Schedules
Your system may have been programmed with schedules for automatically arming, disarming, and activating various devices and/or performing other system functions at predetermined times. Users can modify some of these schedules by manually delaying a closing time, using temporary schedules, or by programming special user schedules. Refer to the USING SCHEDULES section at the end of the manual for scheduling-related procedures.
Device Timers
The system provides up to 20 “timers” that can be used to control various devices, such as lights or appliances. These timers are similar in concept to the individual appliance timers that might be purchased at a department store. The devices that can be controlled are programmed into the system by the installer. Up to 96 of these devices can be programmed. Refer to the PROGRAMMING DEVICE TIMERS section for procedures.
To Access Another Partition (GOTO Command)
Each keypad is assigned a default partition for display purposes, and will show only that partition’s information. But if the user is authorized, a keypad in one partition can be used to perform system functions in another partition by using the GOTO command. Note that only those partitions authorized and programmed by the installer can be accessed in this manner. To GOTO another partition, enter your security code, then press [] followed by the desired partition number.
The keypad will remain in the new partition until directed to go to another partition, or until 120 seconds have elapsed with no keypad activity. Entering your security code, pressing [] followed by [0] will return the keypad to its original partition.
Master Keypad Operation
A “Master” keypad is one on which the status of all 8 partitions is displayed simultaneously. A user can get more information about a certain partition by simply entering [] + the desired partition number. To log on to the “Master” partition (3 for the VISTA-32FB; 9 for the VISTA-128FB) using the GOTO command, and to perform any functions at a Master keypad, a user must have access to all partitions.
Self-Help Feature
Abbreviated user instructions are built into the system that can be easily viewed on the alpha keypad’s message display screen. This feature will prove particularly useful if this manual is not conveniently accessible when you need to perform a system procedure with which you are not familiar.
To view the abbreviated instructions
Simply press and hold down the function key of interest until the description starts to appear (about 5 seconds) and then release it. The system must be “READY TO ARM” to perform this function.
Refer to the FUNCTIONS OF THE KEYPAD section for descriptions of each key function.
Phone Access & Voice Response Capability
Your system may include a 4285 or 4286 VIP module that will permit you to access the system via a Touch-tone phone, either on-premises or by call-in when away. The phone access feature will enable you to do the following:
- Receive synthesized voice messages over the telephone regarding the status of the security system.
- Arm and disarm the system and perform most function commands via the telephone, with voice confirmation provided after each command entry.
- Control 4204/4204CF relays, devices, E and D light TSs, and appliances through the #70 Manual Relay Activation mode.
Complete information regarding the use of this feature is provided in a separate manual entitled PHONE ACCESS USER’S GUIDE, which accompanies the 4285 or 4286 VIP module.
About The Keypads
General
IMPORTANT: If the keypad beeps rapidly upon entering the premises, it indicates that an alarm has occurred during your absence. LEAVE IMMEDIATELY and CONTACT THE POLICE from a safe location nearby.
Your keypads allow you to control all system functions. The keypads feature a telephone-style (digital) keypad and a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that shows the nature and location of all occurrences. Keypad display back lighting is programmable to always stay on or to light only when a key is pressed, then turn off a few minutes later.
The keypads also feature a built-in sounder that will sound during alarms and troubles. It will also “beep” during certain system functions, such as during entry/exit delay times, during CHIME mode, and when depressing keys to perform system functions (to acknowledge the key press). These sounds can be optionally suppressed in some of your keypads (so as not to disturb other users of the system). Ask your installer if this has been done.
The Alpha Keypad
Alpha keypads feature a 2-line, 32-character alphanumeric Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that can display system messages in user-friendly English. Abbreviated user instructions can also be displayed (see Self Help paragraph in the SYSTEM OVERVIEW section). These keypads can also be programmed with custom zone descriptors.
Functions Of The Keypad
IMPORTANT! When using the keypad to enter codes and commands, sequential key depressions must be made within 3 seconds of one another. If 3 seconds elapse without a key depression, the entry is aborted and must be repeated from its beginning.
ALPHA DISPLAY WINDOW
A 2-line, 32-character Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). Displays protection point identification and system status, messages, and user instructions.
- OFF: Disarms the burglary portion of the system, silences alarms and audible trouble indicators, and clears visual alarm trouble after the problem has been corrected.
- AWAY: Completely arms both perimeter and interior burglary protection by sensing an intruder’s movements through protected interior areas as well as guarding protected doors, windows, etc. Late arrivals can enter through an entry delay zone without causing an alarm if the system is disarmed before the entry delay time expires.
- STAY: Arms the perimeter burglary protection, guarding protected doors, windows, and other perimeter protection points, and sounds an alarm if one is opened. Allows automatic bypassing of certain areas, which allows movement within your house without setting off an alarm. Late arrivals can enter through an entry delay zone without causing an alarm if the system is disarmed before the entry delay time expires. See ARMING PERIMETER ONLY for a full explanation of the STAY key.
- MAXIMUM: Arms like AWAY mode, but eliminates the entry delay period, thus providing maximum protection. An alarm will occur immediately upon opening any protection point, including entry delay zones.
- TEST: Tests the system and alarm sounder if disarmed.
- BYPASS: Removes individual protection zones from being monitored by the system. Displays previously bypassed protection zones.
- INSTANT: Arms like STAY mode, but turns off the entry delay period, offering greater security while inside and not expecting any late arrivals. An alarm will occur immediately upon opening any perimeter protection point, including entry delay zones.
- CODE: Allows the entry of additional user codes that can be given to other users of the system.
- CHIME: Turns on & off the CHIME mode. When on, any entry through a protected delay or perimeter zone while the system is disarmed will cause a tone to sound at the Keypad(s).
READY: When depressed before arming the system, the keypad will display all open protection zones within the keypad’s home partition. This key is also used to display all zone descriptors that have been programmed for your system by holding the key down for at least 5 seconds.
- #: Permits ARMING of the system without use of a security code (“Quick Arm”, if programmed).
- KEYS 0-9: Used to enter your security access code(s).
- LED READY INDICATOR: (GREEN) Lit indicates the system is ready to be armed, while unlit indicates the system is not ready.
- LED ARMED INDICATOR: (RED) Lit when the system has been armed (STAY, AWAY, INSTANT, or MAXIMUM).
- LED SUPER INDICATOR: (GREEN) Lit when a supervisory condition exists in the system.
- LED TROUBLE INDICATOR: (RED) Lit when a trouble condition exists in the system.
- SPEAKER: Source of audible internal warning and confirmation sounds, as well as alarms (see “Summary of Audible Notifications”).
- FUNCTION KEYS: These keys can be used for Speedkey (macros) functions or panic keys. Refer to the SPEEDKEY (MACROS) and PANIC KEYS sections for descriptions of these functions.
Entry/Exit Delays
General Information
Your system has installer-programmed time delays, known as exit delay and entry delay. Whenever you arm your system, the exit delay gives you time to leave through the designated exit door without setting off an alarm. Exit delay begins immediately after entering any arming command and applies to all modes of arming protection. If programmed, a slow beeping will sound throughout the exit delay period.
Entry Delay gives you time to disarm the system when you reenter through the designated entrance door. But the system must be disarmed before the entry delay period ends, or an alarm will occur. The keypad will beep during the entry delay period, reminding you to disarm the system. You can also arm the system with no entry delay at all by using either INSTANT or MAXIMUM arming modes. These modes provide greater security while on the premises or while away for extended periods of time. See your installer for your delay times.
Security Codes & Authority Levels
General Information
At the time of installation, you were assigned an authority level and a personal four-digit security code, known only to you and yours. The security code must be entered when arming and disarming the system. The authority level defines the system functions that you can perform.
As an additional safety feature, other users whodo not have a need to know your code can be assigned different security codes, and each user can be given a different authority level. Users are identified by “user numbers”, which are assigned when assigning a user’s security code.
All codes can be used interchangeably when performing system functions within the limits of each code’s authority level (a system armed with one user’s code can be disarmed by another user’s code), except the Operator Level C code. See AUTHORITY LEVELS on the following page for details regarding authority levels.
Duress Code
This feature is intended for use if you are forced to disarm or arm the system under threat. When used, the system will act normally, but can silently notify the central station of your situation, if that service has been provided. The duress code is pre-assigned by the installer during installation (authority level 6).
Important: This code is useful only when the system is connected to a central station.
Quick Arming
Note: If “Quick Arming” was programmed by the installer, the [#] key can be pressed in place of the security code when arming the system. The security code must always be used to disarm the system, however.
Authority Levels
Authority levels define the system functions a particular user can perform. Depending on the authority assigned to you, there are certain system functions you may be prohibited from performing. In summary, there are six authority levels, each having certain system restrictions as shown below.
Level 1 Master
Can perform all system functions in assigned partitions, and can add, delete, or change Manager and Operator level users. Master codes are added by the Installer.
Level 2 Manager
Can perform system functions in assigned partitions, and can add, delete, or change Operator-level users.
Level 3 Operator A
Can perform system functions in assigned partitions, but cannot add or delete other users.
Level 4 Operator B
Same as Operator A, except Operator B cannot bypass zones of protection.
Level 5 Operator C
Can arm the system in assigned partitions, but cannot disarm the system unless the system was armed with this code. This code is typically assigned to someone who needs to arm/disarm the system only at certain times (such as a babysitter.
Level 6 Duress
Can arm and disarm the system, but also sends a silent panic alarm.
To view your authority level and system capabilities:
- Enter your code + [
] + [
].
- The keypad will display the partition(s) that you are authorized to operate, and your user number and authority level in each partition.
General Rules on Authority Levels and Changes
- A user may not delete or change the user code of the SAME or HIGHER authority than which he is assigned.
- A user may only ADD users to a LOWER authority level.
- A user may assign access codes only to those partitions to which the user adding the code has access. (The server with access server with partitionodes in partition 2.)
- The only way to assign a user’s authority level is by using the “Add A User” procedure. To change a user’s authority level, that user must first be deleted, then added again.
- A user can only be DELETED or CHANGED from within the partition he is assigned.
- User numbers must be entered as 3-digit entries (2-digit for VISTA-32FB).. Single-digit user numbers must be preceded by a “00” (example, 003, 004, etc.). Security codes are entered as 4-digit numbers.
- Before assigning a security code, be sure it does not conflict with any DURESS code.
Note: When adding, chanchanging deleting users, all other alpha keypads in that partition will display “User Edit Mode – Please Stand By”, and key depressions (except Panic) at those keypads will be ignored. Panic key depressions will cause an alarm and terminate user entry.
To Exit User Edit Mode
You can exit any of the user edit modes described on the following pages at any time by doing the following:
- Press either
# or don’t press any key for 10 seconds.
- The system returns to normal mode.
Trouble Conditions
Typical Trouble Displays
The word CHECK or TRBL on the Keypad’s display, accompanied by a rapid “beeping” at the Keypad, indicates there is a trouble condition in the system. To silence the beeping sound for trouble conditions, press any key.
- “CHECK” or “TRBL” display accompanied by a display of “CALL SERVICE” indicates that a problem exists with the system that eliminates some of the protection. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- “CHECK” or “TRBL” display accompanied by a display of one or more zone descriptors indicates that a problem exists with those zone(s). First, determine if the zone(s) displayed are intact (this may include Fire and Waterflow type zones) and make them so if they are not. If the problem has been corrected, key an OFF sequence (Code plus OFF) to clear the “CHECK” or “TRBL” display. If the display persists, CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- “CHECK” or “TRBL” display accompanied by a display of “6XX,” where XX = 01-32, indicates a trouble on a supervised relay (corresponding relay number 01-32).
- “CHECK” or “TRBL” display accompanied by a display of “8XX,” where XX = 00-30, indicates a trouble on a peripheral device (connected to the panel’s keypad terminals).
- “CHECK” or “TRBL” display accompanied by a display of “9XX,” where XX = 00-99, indicates a system trouble exists (dialers, Notification Appliance Circuits, ground fault, etc.). These zones are as follows:
- 970: Bell 1 Output
- 971: Bell 2 Output
- 972: Earth Ground Fault
- 973: J2 Trigger Output
- 974: Dialer 1
- 975: Dialer 2
- 988: 2nd RF Receiver – not receiving signals
- 990: 1st RF Receiver – not receiving signals
- 997: Polling Loop Short
- “SUPV” display accompanied by a display of one or more zone descriptors indicates a problem in the fire supervisory zone(s). This means that the operation of the fire alarm system may be compromised. First, determine if the zone(s) displayed are intact and make them so if they are not. If the problem has been corrected, key an OFF sequence (Code plus OFF) to clear the “SUPV” display. If the display persists, CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- A display of “COMM. FAILURE” at the Keypad indicates that a failure has occurred in the telephone communication portion of your system. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- A display of “SYSTEM LO BAT”, accompanied by a once-per-minute “beeping” at the Keypad, indicates that a low system battery condition exists. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- A display of “LO BAT” and a zone descriptor, accompanied by once-per-minute “beeping” at the Keypad, indicates that a low battery condition exists in the wireless transmitter displayed. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- A display of “MODEM COMM” indicates that the control is online with the central station’s remote computer. The control will not operate while online.
- A display of “HSENS” and a zone number indicates a smoke detector with a high sensitivity level, which may cause false alarms. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
- A display of “LSENS” and a zone number indicates a smoke detector with a low sensitivity level. Detectors with a low sensitivity might not detect a smoke condition. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
Power Failure
If the message “AC LOSS” is displayed, the Keypad is operating on battery power only. If only some lights are out on the premises, check circuit breakers and fuses and reset or replace as necessary. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY if AC power cannot be restored.
Maintaining Your System
Taking Care of Your System
The components of your security system are designed to be as free of maintenance as possible. However, there are some things you can do to make sure that your system is in a reliable working condition.
- Test your system weekly. (See TESTING THE SYSTEM and FIRE ALARM SYSTEM section.).
- Test the system after any alarm occurs.
Replacing Batteries in Wireless Sensors
Wireless sensors may not have been used in your security system.
Each wireless sensor in your system has a 9-volt or 3-volt battery. The system detects a low battery in any wireless sensor, including smoke detectors, the optional personal emergency transmitter, and the optional portable wireless keypad. (A low battery in a portable wireless keypad is detected as soon as one of its keys is pressed, and the keypad will display 00.)
Alkaline batteries provide a minimum of 1 year of operation, and in most units and applications, provide 2–4 years of service. Actual battery life will depend on the environment in which the sensor is used, the number of signals that the transmitter in the sensor has had to send, and the specific type of sensor. Factors such as humidity, high or low temperatures, or large swings in temperature may all lead to the reduction of actual battery life in an installation.
If you have a low battery in a wireless sensor, a low battery message is displayed on the keypad.
In addition, a battery-operated smoke detector with a low battery also emits a single “chirp” sound once approximately every 20-30 seconds, identifying itself as the smoke detector with the weak battery. If you do not replace a smoke detector’s low battery, the smoke detector may sound continuously, as if there were a fire alarm.
Note: The low battery message comes on as a warning that battery replacement in the indicated sensor(s) is due within 30 days. In the meantime, the sensor(s) causing the low battery indication are still fully operational.
Important: Use only batteries recommended by your installer as replacements.
Silencing Low Battery Warning Tones at the Keypad
The keypad’s warning tones can be silenced by performing an OFF sequence (code plus OFF key), but the Keypad’s low battery message display will remain on as a reminder that you have a low battery condition in one or more of your sensors. When you replace the weak battery with a fresh one, the sensor will send a “good battery” signal to the control as soon as the sensor is activated (opening/closing of door, window, etc.), causing the low battery display to turn off. If the sensor is not activated, the display will automatically clear within approximately 1 hour.
Routine Care
- Treat the components of your security system as you would any other electrical equipment. Do not slam sensor-protected doors or windows.
- Keep dust from accumulating on the keypad and all protective sensors, particularly on motion sensors and smoke detectors.
- The keypad and sensors should be cleaned carefully with a dry, soft cloth. Do not spray water or any other fluid on the units.
NOTE: Your system musbe tested periodically toto ensure proper protection. This includes testing the fire alarm portion of your system. See the TESTING THE SYSTEM and FIRE ALARM SYSTEM sections for the testing procedures.
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Honeywell Ademco VISTA 32FB Security System- FAQs
How do I silence a false alarm?
Enter User Code + OFF (1) twice.
If the siren continues, power cycle the system (unplug + remove battery).
How do I enable/disable chime mode?
Enable: Code + CHIME (9).
Disable: Code + CHIME (9) again.
What does “FC” mean on the keypad?
FC = Communication Failure – The system failed to send signals to the monitoring center.
Check phone/internet connection or contact your alarm provider.
How do I test my alarm system?
Enter Installer Code (4112) + 800.
Go to Test Mode (Section 90).
Trigger sensors to confirm signals.
How do I replace the backup battery?
Disarm the system.
Open the main panel and disconnect the old 12V battery.
Connect a new 12V 4-7Ah battery and secure the panel.
How do I add a wireless sensor?
Enter Installer Code (4112) + 800.
Go to section 56 for RF enrollment.
Trigger the sensor to pair it.
How do I adjust the siren duration?
Enter Installer Code (4112) + 800.
Navigate to section 33.
Set duration (e.g., 4 minutes = 04).
What if I forget my user code?
Option 1: Use the Master Code (default: 1234).
Option 2: Factory reset (erases all codes).
Option 3: Contact your alarm provider for help.
How do I check system voltage?
Press ✱ + 1 on the keypad.
The display shows AC voltage (e.g., 16.4V) and battery voltage (e.g., 13.6V).