What power transformer do I need to use to connect to the DC12V 1A input on the alarm panel?

4 min. readlast update: 10.31.2025

If you have an older alarm panel that you want to remove from your wall and then connect the Gen 2 alarm panel to the exisiting power wires that your previous alarm system used, please note that you will need to replace your previous alarm systems power transformer with a transformer that is rated at DC 12 volts 1 amp.  This is very important! Using the incorrect transformer or your older transformer will result in burning out the circuit board on the Gen 2.

We recommend either this product on Amazon 12V 1A 12W Transformer. You may also find a transformer with the same power rating at your local electronics store.

A 12-volt, 1-amp transformer = 12 watts.

Calculation
Power (Watts) = Voltage (Volts) X Current (Amps)

  




🔌 Powering the Gen 2 Alarm Panel Using a 12 V 1 A Transformer

This guide explains how to power your Gen 2 Alarm Panel using a 12-volt transformer — especially when connecting to wiring from a previous alarm panel (such as Honeywell or DSC).

⚠️ Important:
Always turn off electricity before making or adjusting any wiring connections.


1️⃣ Understanding Power Options

Your Gen 2 Alarm Panel normally uses a 5 V 2 A adapter (plug-in type).
However, you can also power it with a 12 V 1 A transformer by using the adapter cable included in your kit.

  • Option 1: Plug directly with 5V/2A adapter (standard wall plug).

  • Option 2: Use the 12V/1A input with adapter cable and connect to a 12 V transformer.


    Important: Only use on interface, DO NOT CONNECT and use the DC12V/1A and Type-C 5V/2A power interfaces at the same time.  Use only one or the other.

2️⃣ Identifying Wires from a Previous Alarm System

If you’re reusing existing wall wiring:

Old Alarm Type Typical Transformer Voltage Notes
Honeywell 9 V Not compatible with Gen 2
DSC 16.5 V Too high — do not connect directly

If the old wiring has 4 wires, only two will be used for power.
Use a voltage meter to find the pair that delivers about 12 V DC. Mark them clearly.


3️⃣ Setting Up the 12 V Transformer

You’ll need:

  • 12 V 1 A power adapter (transformer)

  • Adapter cable (red = positive +, black = negative –)

  • Wire connectors (orange caps or similar)

  • Electrical tape

Steps:

  1. Plug your 120 V wall outlet into a short white extension plug or socket (as shown in the photo).

  2. Plug the 12 V 1 A transformer into that socket.

  3. Attach the black and red adapter wires to the two output terminals of the transformer:

    • Red → positive (+)

    • Black → negative (–)

  4. Use wire connectors and secure them with electrical tape.


4️⃣ Connecting to the Alarm Panel

  1. The other end of your adapter cable plugs directly into the 12 V input port of your Gen 2 panel.

  2. Turn power on and check that the panel lights up.

  3. If the panel doesn’t power on:

    • Turn power off again.

    • Swap the two wires (reverse polarity) — sometimes reversing them fixes the issue.


5️⃣ Testing the Connection

Before final installation:

  1. Confirm that the panel turns on.

  2. Test key functions (arming/disarming, sensors, and SOS).

  3. Once verified, secure all wiring neatly in the wall box or enclosure.


⚡ Quick Troubleshooting

Issue Possible Cause Solution
Panel won’t power on Polarity reversed Swap the red/black wire connections
Flickering or unstable power Loose wire cap or low-quality transformer Re-tighten connections or use a new 12 V 1 A transformer
Still no power Old wiring voltage mismatch Use a voltage meter to confirm 12 V DC is present

🧠 Notes for Installers

  • Never connect to a 9 V Honeywell or 16.5 V DSC transformer — these can damage the Gen 2 panel.

  • If unsure, always measure voltage first with a multimeter.

  • Keep all connections insulated with tape or heat-shrink tubing.

I you have any questions please contact our support dept: Technical Support

 

 

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