If you've got a 'radio jamming' fault with a Texecom Premier alarm system, then the following is some guidance on how to fix the problem . . . Rad
If you’ve got a ‘radio jamming’ fault with a Texecom Premier alarm system, then the following is some guidance on how to fix the problem . . .
Radio Jamming problem – trouble-shooting tips
Radio Jamming is displayed on the Texecom Premier when the receiver is jammed for 30 seconds in any given minute. This does not have to be a continuous 30 seconds. So 10 seconds of jamming on 3 occasions within a minute would also cause the fault to display. But 10 seconds of jamming would not cause jamming to be displayed.
Radio Jamming can be caused by a device or devices that interfere with, block or jam authorized wireless communications.
This activity disrupts the flow information of being transmitted on the same frequency used by the intruder alarm wireless network.
Monitoring of jamming cannot and never has been able to be “Turned off”.
‘Radio Jamming’ is different from a ‘Supervision Fault’. It can occur due to the malfunction of 3rd party devices, poorly maintained products, malicious attack or the use of non-approved imported wireless products.
Unintentional ‘Jamming’ occurs when a wireless device transmits a signal across the bandwidth. This can be caused by a third party transmitter emitting a signal when searching for its Base Station.
The detection of Radio Jamming signal generated is site specific and it cannot be disabled at the control panel. Wireless signals are critical to the operation of all wireless systems including Ricochet.
Wi-Fi operates at 2.4ghz or 5ghz which is no-where near the 868-868.6 MHz frequency that Ricochet devices use.
Other things to consider are any devices that are wireless with a low battery, including a Texecom Device! This device may be “locked up” and constantly transmitting on the same frequency.
Wireless thermostats with a low battery may cause this signal as they may constantly indicate this to the receiver until the issue is cleared.
Look out for any old wireless systems that may have been left over (E.G. Yale Wirefree) and not completely removed or decommissioned. This could also be from a neighbouring property in close vicinity that may be poorly maintained or the owner has given up on.
There are also received reports of local councils new “Intelligent Streetlamps” with Radio Transceivers causing this issue.
If you speak to your local council they may be able to change their frequency slightly. There’s been successful reports from other engineers and companies getting in touch with the local council.
Also Consider the position of the Radio Receiver. It may be possible to overcome the jamming by simply moving the receiver itself out of range of the device that is on the same frequency, so they don’t clash.
Common reasons for Radio Jamming on the Texecom Premier
The most common reasons for radio jamming of the Texecom Premier is when other wireless devices transmit across the Ricochet bandwidth frequency (868-868.6 MHz). Common wireless devices that cause radio jamming problems include:
- Wireless thermostats
- Wireless devices that are malfunctioning / low-battery
- Cheap / non-regulated wireless devices
- Old wireless alarm systems (e.g. if your neighbour has an old Yale alarm)
- Smart Street lamps in certain Borough Councils
Get your alarm fixed by a professional
If you’d like to get your Texecom alarm system checked / fixed by a professional engineer, book in an appointment with one of our engineers via our online engineer booking service here >>
