What is a back up Radio?

A radio back up is a device that communicates to our central station without using phone lines. Radio's comminucate with cellular technology much like your cell phone. They became popular as back up communication tools to ensure a signal to central station in the event an intruder cut your phone before attempting to enter.  Most radios provided limited information, telling the central station that there has been an alarm signal or fire signal. It does not send the detailed information lik your alarm panel does. Your alarm panel tells the central station exactly which zone has signaled the alarm, for example zone 3 Front Door. However, some of the newer radios will provide this increased level of communication refered to as Zone Identifiaction or Contact ID. These contact ID radios also are able to have some increased functionality compared to their predecessors, such as the ability to talk to the panel (upload/download), and give you the end user, the ability activate your system over the internet, through a remote keypad. Furthermore, you can program the radio send you an email when the system is activiated.  Of course there is a cost associated with the additionally functionality but it is available to you.