ADT Pulse FAQs

ADT Pulse is ADT’s home and business automation system. It combines home security with automation features that let you manage, monitor and modify your home from almost anywhere. You can remotely arm and disarm your home's security system, display video monitoring, control temperature and lights, receive alerts and custom notifications, as well as lock and unlock doors. The interactive home touchscreen is easy to use and you can access ADT Pulse on your mobile phone or tablet device. ADT Pulse is available for residential and business customers.

Password Tips and Tricks

  • To avoid login errors, we ask that Pulse users do not use any of the following special characters in your password: % & + • ¥ £ ¢ € Keep in mind that if you use an auto-generated password, you may not be aware it is using one of these characters.
  • For security reasons, the app does not work on "rooted" or "jailbroken" phones to help mitigate the impact caused by malware, viruses and spyware. We recommend using https://mobile.adtpulse.com as an alternative to accessing your Pulse system on your mobile device.

For specific FAQs about the ADT Pulse App, go to our ADT Pulse App page.

 

For iOS users, visit the iTunes App Store® to download the latest version now.

For Android Users, visit Google Play® to download the latest version now.

For step-by-step instructions, here's the ADT Pulse Mobile App User Guide.

First, check to make sure your Internet is working properly and you are able to go online. Next, check to make sure the gateway is plugged in and the connection is working properly. 

On rare occasions, a connection can be lost for unknown reasons. If this happens, reboot your system and re-check to determine if the ADT Pulse mobile app is back online. For simple and easy steps on how to reset your gateway, please read these directions on MyADT.com.

Certain 900-MHz baby monitor systems cause interference to Z-Wave systems. If the system is a 900-MHz system, it usually has a channel selector on the camera and the monitor. For two-channel systems, move each selector to Channel B. For three-channel systems, move each selector to Channel C. You may continue to use your baby monitor as a separate system, but you will not be able to view the baby monitor transmission through your ADT Pulse portal.

ZigBee is a different type of wireless communication technology, and is not supported by the ADT Pulse system.

You can set up your ADT Pulse modes in a two easy steps

 

  1. The Modes button can be found under the word “Security” in the summary tab of your ADT webpage. Click this button and it will take you to the System tab.
  2. Next, select modes to control your home or business system—a maximum of eight (8) modes can be set up. Last, complete the setup by clicking the desired tab and selecting the menu options to create the action you would like. Modes can be associated with an existing alert, automation or schedule.

The interactive touchscreen is convenient, easy to use and works like any smart device. Home screen icons offer accessibility to features and services, allowing you to manage your home or business at the touch of a finger. You can arm and disarm your system, and check doors and sensors. If you have lighting and temperature automation installed at home, you can also manage these automations on the touchscreen. Access to web content allows you to follow news, sports and weather, all in one convenient place.

ADT can provide you with a Touchscreen User Guide here.

The touchscreen connects to the Internet over a secure wireless Wi-Fi connection to the ADT Pulse gateway that is shared with video cameras (if you have cameras installed). The ADT Pulse gateway is connected to your broadband router. 

The current Netgear touchscreen has a battery that keeps it alive for a short period of time when not plugged into an electrical outlet, and allows it to be moved from place to place.

You may unplug the touchscreen and move it to a different location, typically within 50 feet of the ADT Pulse gateway.

A standard security system keypad gives you a point of control that is powered directly by the security system. The touchscreen may be moved around and unplugged, and does not have batteries intended for extended use during power outages and emergencies. For this reason, it is important that you always remember your keypad code.

The touchscreen uses a wireless connection to receive data. Typically, the signal to the touchscreen will improve if you move it a few feet closer to the ADT Pulse gateway. For simple and easy steps on how to reset your gateway, please read these directions on MyADT.com.

After logging into the Pulse app, you'll see a large red or green icon on your dashboard.

  • To arm your system, tap the green icon. 
  • Choose if you'd like to arm your system stay or away.
  • To disarm your system, tap the red icon.

To set up video monitoring, first visit your ADT Pulse page to set up automations, options and preferences. To set up your automated video clip, select a trigger event, the time you want the event to occur, and the action to be performed. Click “save” to activate the automation. 

 

Recorded video clips will be displayed in the camera section of your ADT Pulse page. You can also receive text messages or emails with the video clip.

ADT cameras use an encrypted wireless protocol known as WPA2. This is an industry-recognized method to limit access to wireless networks and communications so that its wireless communication remains private.

No. ADT Pulse video is encrypted from end to end.

No. ADT Customer Monitoring Center agents do not have access to view customer video.

The camera uses a wireless connection to receive data. First, check to make sure the camera LED lights are on. Next, confirm that the camera is plugged in. If power is the issue, disconnect power to the gateway. Then, disconnect power to the camera. Wait 5 minutes before reconnecting the power. Try moving the camera closer to the gateway. Disconnect, then reconnect power to the gateway and camera.

For simple and easy steps on how to reset your gateway, please read these directions on MyADT.com.

The system can store an unlimited number of photos and videos. Remember to save any important clips to your portal.

All available ADT Pulse outdoor cameras can see in the dark. Older ADT Pulse indoor bookshelf cameras cannot see in the dark. Newer ADT Pulse indoor cameras such as the iCamera and the 8025 will work in low light or dark environments.

For ADT Pulse systems that use older camera, many people use an automation sequence that will turn on a light to ensure an area to be captured by is well lit. For best results, it is recommended that older cameras be replaced with newer models to insure that full functionality is achieved.

No. ADT Customer Monitoring Center agents do not have access to view customer video.

No. Off-the-shelf cameras cannot be used with your ADT Pulse system. Wireless cameras provided by ADT support the end-to-end encryption required to secure customer video.

No. ADT Customer Monitoring Center agents do not have access to view customer video.

The camera uses a wireless connection to receive data. First, check to make sure the camera LED lights are on. Next, confirm that the camera is plugged in. If power is the issue, disconnect power to the gateway. Then, disconnect power to the camera. Wait 5 minutes before reconnecting the power. Try moving the camera closer to the gateway. Disconnect, then reconnect power to the gateway and camera.

For simple and easy steps on how to reset your gateway, please read these directions on MyADT.com.

The system can store an unlimited number of photos and videos. Remember to save any important clips to your portal.

All available ADT Pulse outdoor cameras can see in the dark. Older ADT Pulse indoor bookshelf cameras cannot see in the dark. Newer ADT Pulse indoor cameras such as the iCamera and the 8025 will work in low light or dark environments.

For ADT Pulse systems that use older camera, many people use an automation sequence that will turn on a light to ensure an area to be captured by is well lit. For best results, it is recommended that older cameras be replaced with newer models to insure that full functionality is achieved.

Z-Wave is a wireless technology used to provide remote control and automated operation of lighting, lock, thermostat and garage door controller devices in your home. The ADT Pulse system uses Z-Wave technology and works with compatible devices to turn lights on and off, raise and lower the temperature of the thermostat, control certain electrical appliances, and control door locks and garage doors.

The ADT Pulse system uses Z-Wave technology and works with compatible devices to turn lights on and off, raise and lower the temperature of the thermostat, control certain electrical appliances, and control door locks and garage doors.

ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions can control many different types of devices. These devices may be purchased through ADT. Refer to a list of ADT approved Z-Wave-Enabled devices that are supported by the ADT Pulse system.
ADT encourages you to select a device from the approved list of Z-Wave enabled devices to insure compatibility. We cannot guarantee that non-ADT Z-Wave devices will work with the ADT system. Please refer to the ADT approved Z-Wave-Enabled devices to ensure you add compatible devices to your system.

No. You can plug in Z-Wave lamp or appliance modules without the assistance of an electrician. For example, if you want to control a table-top lamp, simply plug the lamp module in to a wall outlet. Then, plug the electric lamp into the lamp module. If you choose to install a Z-wave enabled electrical outlets and/or wall switches, ADT recommends that only qualified, licensed electricians connect the devices.

Check to make sure the lamp or power cord switch is always set to the “on” position. If the main switch has been placed in the “off” position, the lamp cannot be controlled by the Z-Wave device.

Check to make sure you are using only incandescent bulbs for all dimmable light modules. Compact Fluorescent light bulbs (CFL’s) are generally not dimmable. This also applies to the CFL bulbs used in round bulb sockets. LED bulbs can be dimmable and supported by newer Z-wave dimming controls for energy efficiency usage. 

Also, there are two types of lamp modules – one that allows dimming and one that is strictly on/off. The best way to check if a plug-in module is a dimmer is to check the model number against the approved list.
Check to make sure you don’t have any interference from 900MHz devices. Certain 900MHz baby-monitor camera systems and 900MHz cordless phones may cause interference with Z-Wave systems. 

If the baby monitor is a 900MHz system, it will typically have a channel selector on both the camera and the monitor. For two-channel systems, move each selector to Channel B. For three-channel systems, move each selector to Channel C. If there is a channel selector on the cordless phone, try a different channel.
Yes, ADT offers Z-Wave door locks that can be added to your ADT Pulse system. 

One of the main features on the ADT Pulse app is the remote access capability that enables keyless entry door locks to be opened and closed. Here is how it works:
  • Press the lock icon and the door will unlock. 
  • Remember to disarm the system before unlocking the door. 
  • Once the desired party has entered your home you can arm the system again directly from your mobile phone. 
  • If an ADT camera is installed the ADT Pulse app allows you to unlock the door remotely without having to share codes. 
  • You can also program your door to automatically lock by adding door lock automation. 

Yes. ADT offers a Z-Wave compatible thermostat. Please refer to the available thermostats on the approved device list.

Yes. ADT offers a Z-Wave garage door controller that is compatible with most garage door openers. Please refer to the available openers on the approved device list.
The Smart Bulb enrolls just like any other Z-Wave device. Visit our ADT Pulse LED Smart Bulb FAQ page to learn how to enroll, troubleshoot, and more.
ADT Pulse Lighting Control lets you automate lights and other small appliances in your home, helping to reduce energy use and enhance security. It works with a variety of lighting options, including custom wall switches, on/off or dimming modules and set up is easy. 

If you want to turn on your lights at night before you get home:

1. Log into your Pulse portal 
2. Go to the Schedules tab and click Add Schedule 
3. Click more options to give the scheduled event a name 
4. Enter a start time and an end time 
5. Then specify the number of times you want the event to repeat 
6. You can also set it to randomize so your lights will go on and off periodically 
7. Choose the Days 
8. Select the Start and End Action 
9. Choose the desired Modes 
10. Then click Save 

If you want to turn on or off your lights or small appliances connected to your system at any time: 

1. Log into your Pulse app 
2. Touch the Light icon 
3. Choose the light or appliance you want to control and press On or Off 
4. If a light has the dimmer module, select the desired Brightness level 

To prevent walking around in the dark at night, lights can also be programmed to turn on or off when doors are opened or movement is detected.
Push notifications enable you to choose to receive alerts in addition to, or in place of, SMS and e-mail alerts. Push notifications are specific to system notifications and camera motion. Please note that you cannot opt out of receiving email notifications. Here’s how to set it up:  

1. When you download the latest version of the Pulse app, you will be introduced to the push notification functionality with a message 
2. Click on the link in the message 
3. Tap Allow to ensure the alerts are sent 
4. You can verify that push notifications are turned on by looking through the settings in the hamburger menu. You will also see a new message within the message tray with additional details on how to implement the notifications. 

Please note that only site owners will receive the prompt to enable push notifications. If you are not a site owner, you won’t see a prompt or have the option to set up push messaging. 

If you received a push notification, but other family members did not, it is because only site owners will receive push notifications. To set up additional site users, please follow these steps:  
1. Log out of the Pulse app 
2. The site owner should log back into their family member’s device using the site owner login credentials 
3. Accept the prompt to Allow push notifications 
4. Log out of the app again 
5. Log back in with your own credentials 

If you have multiple Pulse sites, you’ll automatically receive push notifications for all eligible sites once your device is registered. 

If you already receive notifications via text messages and you opt-in to push notifications, you may want to remove your phone number from the text message recipient list in the Pulse web portal to stop the text notifications. Please note that only site owners can remove alert recipients from the site.

Yes, at this time, you will need to hardwire the doorbell to the existing wires at your home.

​When the doorbell is installed, you will have two automations already included – Pulse will capture a clip when there is doorbell motion or when the doorbell button is pressed. As always, you can add additional automations and alerts since the doorbell is considered a camera as part of the Pulse experience. For instance, you may choose to set up an alert from the web portal when your doorbell detects motion through the web portal.

In the event of an extended power loss (1.5 hours or more), the device must recharge its internal battery before it can be connected.

  • For a digital chime, the ADT Doorbell will be sufficiently recharged to reconnect after 10 hours. The battery will be fully recharged in about 21 hours.
  • For an analog chime, the ADT Doorbell will be sufficiently recharged to reconnect after 3.5 hours. The battery will be fully recharged in 7 hours.
  • The doorbell can be charged in about 45 min if removed from the bracket and charged via USB.

 

​As part of the Pulse integration, you can change the state of your linked devices and security system when you see someone at the door. For instance, you can lock the door and arm the system if you see someone suspicious at the front door, right through the Pulse app. Additionally, you can unlock the door and disarm the system if you want to allow your dog walker in. You can also navigate to the doorbell and start a conversation with the person at the door through live view

After the device is installed, open the device drawer within the Pulse app and you will be prompted to add connected devices. Simply click “Link Devices”. The list of available devices will then be displayed. You can select up to six devices to link to the ADT Doorbell. Selecting the device will automatically link it to the doorbell and save the change. When you are finished, you can tap the "<" icon in the header of the Video Doorbell Settings screen to exit the screen and return to the doorbell live feed screen.

At ADT, we want everyone to feel safe in the places they live, work and play. So we want to be able to give you a clear picture of what the crime rate is in your area, or places you travel, as well as other safety factors you might be concerned about.

Crime Maps provide your area’s crime rating, with 100 being the average crime rate, as well as total crimes, and types of crimes like assaults, robbery and other property crimes. You can view the most common types of crime in your area, as well as how your area compares to the national average.

You can type in your U.S. ZIP Code and get a crime rating, data and information on the most common crimes in your area. You can look at crime by ZIP Code, state, the whole country or anything in-between.

Generally, we update Crime Maps about every six months using information provided by federal law enforcement, as well as state and other agencies. If you want to know when data was updated, you can check the bottom of the page and it’ll list the month and year of the last update.

Many crime maps and tools rely on self-reported data by users, which can’t be verified. Our map only uses federal, state and local reports for the data and isn’t reliant on self-reporting.