Security System Transformer Question

[David Patnaude]

Hello,

I just moved into a house with an existing alarm system after never
having an alarm system before.

In the master bedroom, there is a Revere RT1640 transformer that is no
t plugged into the wall socket. If you plug it in, the siren goes off.

What is this transformer for?

Once the system is reactivated with the alarm company, can this
transformer be plugged in without setting off the siren?

Thanks,
Dave Patnaude

[Frank Olson]

David Patnaude wrote:

It's more than likely the AC transformer for the alarm. Most common alarm
panels will "blip" the siren circuit when they're first powered up. This
can last anywhere between 1 and 3 seconds. Does the siren stay on
continuously when you plug the transformer in?

What's the make and model of the alarm system?

Frank Olson
http://www.alt-security-alarms.com
Please visit the unofficial web site for FAQ's and participant
information.
All the links work! Free listings for qualified trade professionals &
suppliers.

[Bob La Londe]

"David Patnaude" <dmp-...@att.net> wrote in message
news:19a77bde.02082...@posting.google.com...

> Hello,
>
> I just moved into a house with an existing alarm system after never
> having an alarm system before.
>
> In the master bedroom, there is a Revere RT1640 transformer that is no
> t plugged into the wall socket. If you plug it in, the siren goes off.

The alarm is probably powered down in the armed state. When you plug in the
transformer all the powered zones go into alarm.

>
> What is this transformer for?

It is the main power for the alarm system. Ordinarily there is a battery in
the control panel which will provide backup power for the alarm system that
will last from several hours to a couple days depending on the extenet and
condition of the alarm system.

The battery has either been disconnected or is dead.

>
> Once the system is reactivated with the alarm company, can this
> transformer be plugged in without setting off the siren?

It should be, if the alarmco has all the necessary information to reset the
codes and reprogram the alarm for you.

Typically in a circumstnace such as you describe we would charge $75 for a
service call to come out and reset the system, program it for you, and teach
you how to use it. We waive the service call if you sign up for monitoring
service with acontract length of atleast one year. Service rates in your
area will vary, but that should be what you can expect from a reputable
company.

First try the company that installed the system. That may be the most
economical as they should have the dealer codes for the system. If they
don't sound reasonable try a couple od independent dealers. They won't have
the dealer code, but they might be will to do a board swap for a fee (to
cover the cost of the board) anf get you up and runbning for a reasonable
amount.
--
Bob La Londe
http://www.diycomponents.com
b...@diycomponents.com

The Security Consultant
849 S Ave C
Yuma, Az 85364

Lic# ROC 103047
Lic# ROC 103044

(928)782-9765 (ofc)
(928)782-7873 (fax)

[David Patnaude]

Frank Olson <feo...@alt-security-alarms.com> wrote in message news:<3D6A4937...@alt-security-alarms.com>...

> David Patnaude wrote:
>
> > Hello,
> >
> > I just moved into a house with an existing alarm system after never
> > having an alarm system before.
> >
> > In the master bedroom, there is a Revere RT1640 transformer that is no
> > t plugged into the wall socket. If you plug it in, the siren goes off.
> >
> > What is this transformer for?
> >
> > Once the system is reactivated with the alarm company, can this
> > transformer be plugged in without setting off the siren?
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Dave Patnaude
>
> It's more than likely the AC transformer for the alarm. Most common alarm
> panels will "blip" the siren circuit when they're first powered up. This
> can last anywhere between 1 and 3 seconds. Does the siren stay on
> continuously when you plug the transformer in?

The alarm remains on until the transformer is unplugged...

>
> What's the make and model of the alarm system?

This is a summer house. I won't get a chance to check the make and
model again until this weekend.

>
> Frank Olson
> http://www.alt-security-alarms.com
> Please visit the unofficial web site for FAQ's and participant
> information.
> All the links work! Free listings for qualified trade professionals &
> suppliers.

Thanks for you reply,
Dave

[David Patnaude]

"Bob La Londe" <alarm_...@hotmail.com> wrote in message news:<3d6a45b8$1...@news3.nntpserver.com>...

Bob,

Thanks for the helpful information. I'll have to check in with the
previous alarm company.

Dave