This one is a little timely because we have had 2 customers call in already today after a “lightening strike” with alarm panels that have stopped talking to the keypads. The symptom on these happens to be “OC” or “Open Circuit”. “OC” Will be accompanied by the keypad making a single “beep” every 30 seconds. This error refers to an open data circuit between the alarm panel and the keypad. Basically, the keypad has power, but doesn’t see data from the alarm panel. OC certainly doesn’t mean the main panel is fried, but it certainly requires on-site troubleshooting including all voltages just like you would for a low-battery call. “OC” should not be misinterpreted as a lightening strike. It just happens to be on 2 calls from this morning from lightening strikes. So far…….
These tech tips are intended to provide insights to small nuances to help with many different products we offer. It is the small attention to detail that separates an outstanding job from an OK one. Although these apply primarily to technicians, they will help others gain insight to what the technicians do – in small doses.