Powering the Konnected Alarm Panel

The Konnected device can accept 6V to 24V DC in the base, or 5V DC via USB cable directly to the logic board. If you’re replacing an existing alarm panel system, you can probably draw 12V DC from the existing system. Many alarm systems also have back-up batteries that you can take advantage of in this case.

Powering the Device from an Existing Alarm Panel

Most traditional alarm panels output 12V DC power from two screw terminals labeled AUX Output. This is used to power your home’s motion sensors, keypad, glass-break sensors, etc. You can tap into this power output to power your Konnected device. Use your alarm panel’s wiring diagram or user’s manual to identify the 12V DC AUX Output terminals. Below are some examples of some popular alarm panel wiring diagrams highlighted with what to look for:

Interlogix

Ademco

Step by Step Instructions

Disconnect the Power to the alarm panel before you begin. Usually this means unplugging a power adapter and unplugging the backup battery.
Find the AUX Power Output on your existing alarm panel. It should be two screw terminals labeled with AUX+ or + and COM, - or G. There are probably already a number of wires attached to these terminals for your various powered sensors and keypad. Loosen the screw terminals with a screwdriver, being careful not to let any existing wires slip out.

DO NOT CONNECT THE KONNECTED DEVICE TO AC POWER. Do not confuse the AUX Power Out on the alarm panel with where the alarm panel receives AC power. Connecting the device to AC power will damage the device and may result in electrocution or fire!
Verify that the AUX Power Output is between 6V and 24V DC. Usually the voltage is labeled on the wiring diagram or user’s manual. If not, verify with a multimeter.
Using a male-to-female jumper wire, insert the metal male end under the first screw terminal and tighten so it stays in contact with the metal. Repeat for the second screw terminal.
Connect the female end of the jumper wire from the + terminal to one of the four pins labeled U1 on the Konnected device base. Connect the wire from the COM, - or G terminal to one of the GND on the bottom left of the Konnected base.

Power using a Power Adapter

You can use almost any power adapter with a standard 5.5mm power plug to provide power to the Konnected device as long as it outputs between 6V and 24V DC (it’s usually clearly labeled). We recommend using a 12V DC power adapter when possible because most alarm system components are also 12V.

For most installations without power from an existing alarm panel, we recommend a 12V 2 amp power adapter. This gives you plenty of power for one or more Konnected device and any motion sensors that need it.

Power using USB

If you only need to power the Konnected device, you can use most any USB power adapter and a Micro USB cable. Phone chargers work great. Note that when powering by USB, you cannot draw power for external devices like motion sensors or a siren.

Powering Multiple Konnected Devices

You can power multiple Konnected boards with one power source by powering the first board from the alarm panel or a 12V power adapter, then wiring power to other boards using the extra U1 and GND pins as shown: