Honeywell 8EP396A Onboard Illuminated Keypad Panel Accenta and Optima Gen4 intrude Alarm Panel

Bought this to replace an older, wired control box which was operated by a key. I don't think the logic is quite as well thought out in the Optima, although I accept that it may just be different and not what I am used to.I don't find the Engineer's Manual or the User Guide very clear at all - there is too much confusion with the instructions for the LCD keypad and LED keypad both being included. I have the compact which has a built-in (LED) keypad so I'm not interested in the LCD version. Also, the menu system appears to refer to keys labelled 'O' and 'C' - these keys are present neither on my box nor on the diagram on the front of the guides. However, the worst thing is that the 'Part Set' function doesn't work. The User Guide states that pressing 'P' after entering the (user) code allows the selection of he relevant program. However, 'P' has no effect. This is despite my having set up the programmes as per the Engineer's Manual. Admittedly, this may be down to me, but if so, it emphasises the point about the manual not being very clear. As it happens, the work around is very simple - to omit zone 2 (what my Program 2 is intended for) I simple enter <Code> <Omit> '2' <Tick> which is not really much harder than <Code> 'P' '2'. It also took me a while to realise that I could ignore the manual in that it wasn't necessary to 'ensure that all doors and windows are shut' in zone 2 when I was intending to omit this zone anyway. (It was such a pain when everyone was going to bed at the same time!)There are good points - I particularly like having up to 8 zones available, which gives me great flexibility. And, of course, I like not having a physical key and being able to give guests their own code which can be changed when they leave.

Easy to fit alarm and lovely design. Excellent instructions too.

I fit these as so easy for customers to use

What a great panel this is. These are good basic units that are easy to fit.Note, I did loop the unused zones on the board to be on the safe side. I recommend fitting internal 'sound bomb' (just search Amazon - cost a few pounds). If you are fitting to uneven wall/surface, use spacers at the back so when you fit to the wall it doesn't distort. Change the battery every 2-3 years, don't let t go longer than than that. Don't forget, if you wire in a key pad, the main unit can be in a more discreet place. Only criticism is seller's packaging wasn't enough in my view.

This item was installed last week by my husband, it was to replace an old Optima unit that had randomly gone off several times during the night. He told me it was easy to fit, and the instructions are clear.

Bought this to replace the old alarm. It was relatively easy to fit. My son fitted it in a couple of hours and it works perfectly.

Bought this as a replacement for an old Optima XL6 panel - it proved to be a straight swap, easy to fit & set up for a competent DIYer.When swapping units, first take a few photos of the existing pcb wiring on your phone, then label everything up before removing the wires. All in all its a leisurely 1 hour to swap over.Be aware It is a slightly smaller unit than the older versions, so be prepared to fill/drill/paint your wall.

Easy to install, programming functions slightly confusing from the instructions but once you've done one it becomes clear and easy.