2GIG GC2 Installation & Programming Guide (V1.16) — Summary
This is a condensed, installer-friendly overview of the official 2GIG GC2 (GoControl) Installation & Programming Guide (firmware v1.16). It covers site prep, wiring and power, mounting, programming (“Q” options), sensor enrollment, communicator setup, Z-Wave pairing, testing, and UL/acknowledgment notes.
Before You Start
- Verify panel firmware (target v1.16 for this guide’s references).
- Confirm monitoring path (cellular module installed/activated; broadband if applicable).
- Plan device locations: panel near central entry, away from heavy metal or high interference areas; sirens and sensors per coverage map.
- Have installer code ready; document account numbers and reporting formats required by your monitoring provider.
Power, Wiring & Mounting
- Power supply & battery: Use the specified transformer and lead-acid backup battery. Run dedicated power wiring; avoid sharing with high-draw devices.
- Mounting: Mark stud or use anchors. Mount backplate level, route wiring neatly, then hang/secure the panel housing.
- Peripherals: If using a hardwired takeover module, follow zone mapping and end-of-line resistor (EOL) requirements per the module spec.
- Sounders: Internal siren is built-in; external siren use requires proper power and supervision wiring.
After powering up, wait for the panel to fully initialize before programming.
Core Programming Flow (Installer Menu)
Access the installer toolbox (via Installer Code) to set global options. The GC2 uses numbered “Q” programming fields common to many 2GIG panels.
System & Reporting
- Set account/partition options and reporting formats required by the central station.
- Enable/disable entry/exit beeps, chimes, and closing acknowledgment tones as needed for UL or site preference.
- Configure communicator path priority (cellular first, dual-path if available).
Zones & Sensors
- Choose sensor type (e.g., entry/exit, perimeter, interior follower, fire, CO, water/flood, auxiliary).
- Learn sensors (trip to enroll) or input serials manually; set loop numbers and response types.
- Name zones clearly; set chime/voice as needed.
Users & Codes
- Change installer code; create master and user codes.
- Set duress code if required by policy; confirm reporting behavior.
Cellular Communicator & Network Tests
- Confirm SIM/activation status and signal level at the panel location.
- Run a cellular test to verify path, registration, and handshake with the monitoring platform.
- Perform a sensor RF test for each device at installed location to validate range and reliability.
Z-Wave® Home Automation (If Equipped)
- Put panel into Z-Wave inclusion mode; include devices (locks, lights, thermostats, modules) one at a time, close to the panel if needed.
- Rename devices; verify control from the panel and the mobile app if provisioned.
- Build mesh gradually; include a few powered nodes first to extend range, then battery devices.
See also: smart home automation
Testing & Final Checks
- Walk Test: Trip each zone; confirm annunciation and correct zone text.
- Alarm Signal Test: Send test signals to the central station; verify receipt and correct account tagging.
- Battery & AC: Verify charging, expected standby time, and low-battery reporting.
- Time/Date & Schedules: Set system clock; review auto-arming or entry/exit delays per customer request.
Monitoring info: 24/7 professional monitoring
UL & Acknowledgment Options
When configured for applicable UL settings, the panel may emit an audible indicator when an arming/closing signal is successfully transmitted to the monitoring station. This behavior satisfies certain UL supervision requirements and can be toggled in the appropriate Q-field if site policy allows.
Common Issues & Quick Fixes
- Cellular signal low: Reposition panel/antenna, add a cellular module with higher-gain antenna, or relocate near better coverage.
- Sensor not enrolling: Confirm correct loop number and battery tab removed; try manual serial entry.
- Frequent false alarms: Re-evaluate zone type/response; check for drafts, pets, or reflective surfaces on PIRs; adjust mounting height/aim.
- Arming beeps/closing tone unwanted: Review Q-options for local chime/ack settings; verify UL requirements before disabling.
Customer Handoff
- Create user codes; demonstrate arm stay/away and disarm.
- Show entry/exit delays and chime settings.
- Explain testing cadence, low-battery indicators, and how to request service.