Reusing Ademco Vista-10SE without ADT monitoring

We purchased a house that was previously using ADT monitoring for a Vista-10SE alarm system. We are interested in using that alarm system for local alarms, and possibly calling our phones if that is possible. I have been doing a bunch of research, have found the programming and user manuals and have a couple of options:

1. Use the system as is and figure out how to add external phone calling, if available. The problem I am having is that the programming manual is very difficult to understand. How to I get the system setup or find someone who could help me?

2. Buy a new hardwired system that could use the existing window/door security contacts. This would make it easier to get a system that provides cell phone calling, etc. I have done some looking online and am having a difficult time finding the best product. Any recommendations?

 

The Vista 10se is a pretty basic system, but will fill your basic needs fairly well.

Which version of the manual do you have? The earlier versions had a seperate programming form book, and without both halves, didn't make much sense. Try this version: http://www.vallance.com/installation...0seinstall.pdf

Trying to get one of these to call a mobile phone _can_ be done, but only in a very limited and primative fashion (by tricking the dialer into thinking it's calling a pager).

The calling a personal phone seems to be the one thing everyone wants to try to do, but very few systems are really designed for. (Telephone technology changed faster than alarm technology)

Read though the FAQ sticky titled "Alarm Forum FAQ (Please read before posting)". You will find some of your basic questions answered there...