DSC PowerSeries and Neo: entering installer programming with [*][8]

Updated

Short answer

With the system disarmed, press * 8 and enter the installer code (factory default 5555). The keypad enters programming and waits for a three-digit section number. Enter a section, enter its data, and press # to back out. Press # again at the section prompt to leave programming.

On this page
  1. Enter programming
  2. How sections work
  3. PowerSeries Neo
  4. The installer code was changed

Installer sections control zone types, reporting, and fire supervision. Put the account on test, write down the current value of anything you change, and test with your monitoring company when you finish.

Enter programming

  1. Disarm the system.
  2. Press * 8.
  3. Enter the installer code.
  4. On LED keypads the Program light (or the Armed and Ready lights) flashes to show it is waiting for a section. LCD keypads say Enter Section.

If the keypad gives a long error beep, the installer code has been changed.

How sections work

  • Every setting lives in a numbered section (for example section 005). Enter the three digits to open it.
  • Some sections take numbers (delays, codes, phone numbers). Others are toggle options, where keys 1 to 8 turn options on and off and the zone lights show which are on.
  • # leaves the current section without saving the rest of it.
  • On PC1616, PC1832, and PC1864 panels, system times such as entry and exit delay are in section 005, and the installer code itself is in section 006. Confirm against the installation manual for your panel and firmware.

Download the installation manual and programming worksheets for your exact panel from DSC (Johnson Controls) before you start. LCD keypads show section names, which makes LED-keypad programming much easier to follow.

PowerSeries Neo

Neo panels (HS2016, HS2032, HS2064, HS2128) use the same * 8 + installer code entry, and the same default code unless it was changed. Neo LCD keypads show menus and section descriptions, and wireless PowerG devices are enrolled from a dedicated section.

The installer code was changed

  • Ask the original installer. Many will provide it once a contract has ended.
  • PowerSeries panels have a documented hardware default procedure that resets all programming to factory settings, including the installer code. It erases zones, codes, and reporting settings, and it does not work if the installer enabled installer lockout.
  • With installer lockout on, the panel cannot be defaulted on site. The usual fix is replacing the main board.

See also installer and master codes.

Found a mistake or have a tip that worked for you? Let us know. This guide is general information; your installation and programming manuals are the final word for your exact model.