One of the key things for the homeowner concerning the ADT alarm system pad is to be able to change the code on the pad because it is important in governing the access and or security of the home alarm system. The process itself is not very complicated, but it is critical to follow several steps accurately to guarantee that the code modification is working correctly and does not yield false positives or negate certain parts of the system.

First of all, you need to find out the model number of your ADT alarm pad and what type of codes are used such as default installer codes and if not, what customized codes have been set up. This information is commonly imprinted on the alarm pad housing or a sticker or metallic tag located on the back of the model. The Safewatch Pro 3000, Vista 10, Vista 20P, and Vista 21iP have built-in standard default codes which when entered place the alarm system into the programming mode if the user has not set any other custom codes.

After identifying the model of the alarm pad, and obtaining the correct installer code for changing the code, you can proceed to the next step of the process. It is also important to ensure that the home security system is on and fully armed before proceeding with the task in a bid to eliminate the possibility of false alarms. The next action is programming which implies typing in the installer code very deliberately and waiting for the keypad to give more prompts to indicate that programming mode is on. If you have any problems getting into the program mode there may be a problem with the alarm pad reference manual and every model is different because the key sequences are different.

The program mode is now enabled and therefore you can move towards the prompt to modify the existing codes. This usually requires one to choose a particular user number to edit, and then, enter a new code of 4 to 6 digits at least twice, there’s also areas to enable or disable specific features for that particular code. Complicated codes can be employed for a mere arming and disarming of the system while complex codes also enable the bypass of zones as well as the teaching of duress alarms or even configuration of the system. Make sure that you keep note of the user number to which that new code corresponds in the future.

Every time that you are through with your code change, the alarm pad will advise you to exit the programming mode. Proceed with this action to save all the changes made and go back to the usual mode of operation. Now it is important that you perform a few tests with the new code to see its functionality and this includes the arming and disarming of the security system. There are a few sensors too, to ensure the alarms are functional for all zones as expected. You have to ensure everything is running smoothly before the installer's test mode elapses which, in most of the ADT equipment, lasts for 24 hours.

A few key points to remember when changing codes yourself on an ADT alarm panel: do not use special characters in the new codes, indicate which user numbers have been assigned new codes, and test the equipment thoroughly after changes before using it again, consult with your model’s manual in case you experience any difficulties. Switching codes is not usually a complex task, but it does involve some careful work, as it is possible to turn off some of the components of the home security system, thus making the house open to intruders. For the most part, I found that current ADT systems are not too difficult to change the alarm pad codes with a little caution and planning as long as one is a moderately skilled do-it-yourself homeowner. As long as you take it slow and attempt to make use of the reference materials available to you, it is manageable.

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