The Central Station ID (CSID) or Account Number is typically a 4-digit or 6-digit code programmed into the panel to identify the subscriber to the monitoring station. Here is how to find or program it on major panels:
Installer Code + 8 + 00* + 8 + Installer Code* + 8 + Installer CodeThe communication format determines how the alarm panel "speaks" to the Central Station receiver. Choosing the correct format is critical for reliable signal transmission.
| Format Name | Description & Usage |
|---|---|
| Contact ID (CID) |
Most Common / Standard. Uses DTMF (Touch-Tone) sounds to transmit data. It sends a specific 4-digit event code (e.g., E130 for Burglary) along with zone and partition information. It is fast, reliable over standard phone lines and VoIP, and universally supported. |
| SIA (DC-09 / FSK) |
Modern Digital Standard. SIA sends digital data rather than tones. It is faster than Contact ID and can transmit more detailed information, including text descriptions in some implementations. Highly recommended for IP and Cellular communicators as it is less susceptible to audio distortion. |
| 4/2 Pulse (or 3/1, 4/1) |
Legacy / Obsolete. An older "pulse" format that sends a 4-digit account number followed by a 2-digit event code. It provides very limited information (e.g., it might just say "Zone 1 Alarm" without distinguishing between Fire or Burglary unless pre-defined). Avoid unless servicing very old panels. |
| Modem II / IIe / IIIa2 |
Proprietary (Radionics / Bosch). High-speed proprietary formats used exclusively by Radionics and Bosch panels. They allow for very fast transmission and detailed reporting but require specific receivers at the Central Station. |
| DMP (Serial 3) |
Proprietary (DMP). Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) uses its own highly efficient serial format. It is extremely fast and supports rich data features like user names and zone names, but only works with DMP receivers. |