September 8 2025

When the Alarm Can’t “Phone Home”: Communicator Troubleshooting

Quick intro: If you changed internet providers or moved your router, the alarm may lose its path to the monitoring center. Here’s how to fix it safely.

Symptoms you might see

  • Comm Trouble / Failure to Communicate on the keypad

  • No push notifications in the app, no new events in history

 

Fast checks (no tools required)

  1. Power cycle your internet gear in this order: modem → router → (if separate) network switch. Wait 2 minutes between each.

  2. If your communicator is cellular, make sure its antenna hasn’t been tucked into a metal can or closet—metal kills signal.

  3. If the panel uses Ethernet, confirm the patch cable is fully seated and the router port light is on.

  4. Run a Communication Test from the user menu (if your panel supports it).

 

Common causes we see in the field

  • Router replaced and the panel’s IP settings didn’t renew (DHCP change)

  • ISP blocked or changed port behavior; P2P cloud needs a refresh

  • Cellular antenna relocated behind metal shelving or appliances

 

What not to do

  • Don’t factory‑reset the panel or yank wires. You’ll create new problems and wipe helpful logs.

 

When to call BBC Systems: Repeated failures after a clean reboot, cellular signal <2 bars at the panel, or you’re unsure whether you have IP, cellular, or dual‑path.

Give us a call for all of your Fire Alarm, Access Control, Camera, and Security System needs!

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(256) 774-7250