Can I use Compass Software to program my Vista 20P Control Panel?

By Petra Paulson · Jun 8th 2022

Compass Software is the programming tool most commonly used by professional dealers to configure Vista series control panels, but ambitious end users can also use it to program a Vista 20P themselves with the right equipment and a bit of patience.

What You Will Need

A modem approved for use with Honeywell control panels.
A computer with a standard serial port compatible with both the modem and Compass software.
A phone cord with an RJ-11 jack.

Programming Steps

Insert the RJ-11 phone cord into the modem's line jack.
Insert the other end of the cord into terminals 23 and 24 on the Vista 20P control panel.
Bridge a connection between terminals 4 and 5 on the control panel using a 150 ohm, 0.5 watt resistor.
Start the Compass software and create a new Vista 20P account.
Click "Initiate from Telco" under the Communications tab, then click "Connect". In the box provided, type your 4-digit installer code, followed by "#", then "1". Once the "Modem Comm" / "CC" message appears, click "OK".

Once these steps are complete, the modem is programmed to download information to your Vista 20P control panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an end user program a Vista 20P with Compass Software?

Yes. While Compass Software is primarily used by professional dealers to program Vista series control panels, an end user with the proper modem, a compatible computer, and an RJ-11 phone cord can also use it to program a Vista 20P.

What equipment do I need to program a Vista 20P with Compass Software?

You will need a modem approved for use with Honeywell control panels, a computer with a standard serial port compatible with that modem and the Compass software, and a phone cord with an RJ-11 jack.

Which terminals on the Vista 20P are used for the modem connection?

The RJ-11 phone cord from the modem connects to terminals 23 and 24 on the Vista 20P control panel.

Why is a resistor needed when programming the Vista 20P?

A 150 ohm, 0.5 watt resistor must bridge terminals 4 and 5 on the control panel to complete the connection required for Compass Software programming.

How do I start the modem programming session in Compass Software?

After creating a new Vista 20P account in Compass, click "Initiate from Telco" under the Communications tab, then click "Connect". Enter your 4-digit installer code followed by "#" and "1". Once the "Modem Comm" / "CC" message appears, click "OK" to complete the connection.