Overview
Aritech/Challenger commercial control panels (Challenger10, ChallengerPlus, ChallengerLE) — scalable modular intrusion and access platforms with RAS keypads, DGP expanders, and UltraSync/Tecom integration options.
The panel is the brain of the intrusion system: it supervises wired and wireless zones, drives bell/siren outputs, manages automation on supported models, and reports to Alarm.com / UltraSync when a compatible communicator is installed. Installers program zones, user codes, and dialer options with dealer programming tools (varies by Challenger, Reliance, Simon); end users arm/disarm from RAS keypads, keyfobs, or the monitoring app.
At a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Role | Commercial modular control panel |
| Scale | Multi-area, multi-door commercial installs |
| Bus | Challenger DGP / expander architecture |
| Comms | Ethernet, 4G modules, PSTN options per SKU |
| Successor | Regional catalog via Aritech / Fire Security Products |
What This Panel Does Well
Coordinates intrusion zones, automation, user codes, and central station reporting when cell and monitoring are configured.
Before You Service or Replace One
- Exact panel model — Simon vs Challenger vs Reliance vs Tecom — firmware and modules differ.
- Encryption — TX-E vs hardwired vs Challenger wireless sensors in the field.
- Cell module SKU — Simon Alarm.com LTE vs Challenger/Tecom 4G (AU/NZ SKUs).
- Installer code — required for zone changes; document before service.
- Alarm.com / UltraSync dealer — account status, plan, and remote programming access.
Official Sources
Use official Aritech install PDFs and install guides for exact wiring, enrollment, and firmware — specifications vary by SKU and region.
FAQs
Which Interlogix/Aritech panel do I have?
Check label and installer paperwork — **Simon, Challenger, Reliance XR, and Tecom use different modules, firmware, and screen layouts. Simon supports TX-E; Challenger/Reliance use different bus/RF paths sensors.
Why does my panel show cell failure?
Usually inactive SIM, wrong module SKU, weak RSSI, or antenna fault — run installer cell test and verify Alarm.com / UltraSync/dealer activation.
Can I add sensors myself?
Wireless enrollment requires installer code on the panel for new zones — end users typically cannot add sensors without installer access.
Standard vs encrypted sensors?
TX-E sensors require Simon or 319.5 MHz compatible hosts. Mixing without support causes enrollment failure or encryption trouble.
Where is official documentation?
Primary reference: Challenger install and programming guide (Aritech documentation)
How do I test after installation?
Use panel walk test, zone status, and (if monitored) central station test per dealer procedure.
Can I mix TX-E and Challenger wired devices?
TX-E needs Simon (or 319.5 MHz host); Challenger DGP needs wired or listed wireless paths transceiver hardware — they do not enroll on the standard 345 MHz receiver alone.
Which Interlogix/Aritech panel do I have?
Check label and installer paperwork — **Simon, Challenger, Reliance XR, and Tecom use different modules, firmware, and screen layouts. Simon supports TX-E; Challenger/Reliance use different bus/RF paths sensors.
Why does my panel show cell failure?
Usually inactive SIM, wrong module SKU, weak RSSI, or antenna fault — run installer cell test and verify Alarm.com / UltraSync/dealer activation.
Can I add sensors myself?
Wireless enrollment requires installer code on the panel for new zones — end users typically cannot add sensors without installer access.
Standard vs encrypted sensors?
TX-E sensors require Simon or 319.5 MHz compatible hosts. Mixing without support causes enrollment failure or encryption trouble.
Where is official documentation?
Primary reference: Challenger install and programming guide (Aritech documentation)
How do I test after installation?
Use panel walk test, zone status, and (if monitored) central station test per dealer procedure.
Can I mix TX-E and Challenger wired devices?
TX-E needs Simon (or 319.5 MHz host); Challenger DGP needs wired or listed wireless paths transceiver hardware — they do not enroll on the standard 345 MHz receiver alone.