What Does CA Mean on My Keypad?

What Does CA Mean on My Keypad?

What Does CA Mean?

On a Honeywell Vista panel, CA (or, on alpha keypads, “Alarm Canceled”) indicates an Exit Alarm was triggered but then canceled before the entry delay timer expired 

 How This Happens:

  1. Exit Delay: After arming (Stay/Away), you're given time to leave before the system fully arms.

  2. Exit Fault: If a door or interior zone remains open when the exit delay ends, the system starts sounding an alarm and initiates an entry delay 

  3. Canceling the Alarm: If you disarm the system during the entry delay, the alarm stops and the display shows CA—but importantly, no alarm signal is sent to the central station 


How to Clear “CA” and Reset the System

To clear this message and restore normal operation:

  1. Close any open zones: Make sure all doors and interior zones are securely closed (or bypassed if intentional).

  2. Acknowledge the screen:

    • Enter your 4-digit security code, then press OFF (or the [1] key on fixed-word keypads) once. The alarm beeps will stop.

    • If CA remains, re-enter your code + OFF again to fully clear the display.

  3. Re-arm as usual: Once cleared, you can arm the panel (AWAY, STAY, INSTANT, etc.) normally.


Tips to Avoid Seeing “CA” in the Future

  • Ensure exit zones are closed before arming: Don’t arm if an entry/exit door or interior zone used during exit is open.

  • Allow full exit delay time: Let the panel complete its countdown before using that zone.

  • Bypass zones if needed: If you need to leave a door open, bypass it (Code + 6 + zone number) before arming.

  • Confirm with READY: Press * to review open zones before arming—when READY is displayed, it’s safe to arm.


If you continue to see CA even after all zones are closed and clearing with your code, or if you experience repeated exit/alarm issues, it may signal a sensor or wiring fault. In that case, contact your installer or alarm service provider for further diagnosis.

    • Related Articles

    • 🚨 Common Alarm System Issues & How to Report Them

      Your alarm system is designed to protect your home or business, but like any technology, occasional issues may occur. Below are some of the most common alarm system problems, what they typically mean, and how you can report them for prompt ...
    • 2GIG GC2e User Manual 📖

      Need detailed guidance for your GC2e control panel? We’ve attached the official 2GIG GC2e User Manual to help with setup, operation, and troubleshooting. ? Download the manual below for step-by-step instructions, feature details, and diagrams.
    • How to Program Wi-Fi on the 2GIG Edge

      From the home page, tap the settings icon (cog), then tap Keypad. Enter 1561, then tap Installer Toolbox. Tap Panel Programming, then tap Network Settings. Tap on your preferred home wireless network from the list. Enter your network password, then ...
    • IQ Panel 4—Tamper Error

      Understanding IQ Panel 4 Tamper Alerts Learn what triggers a tamper alert and why it’s an important security feature. A tamper alert on your Qolsys IQ Panel 4 is designed to protect the integrity of your security system. It indicates that the panel’s ...
    • 2GIG Edge - Programming a Door/Window Sensor

      2GIG Edge - Programming a Door/Window Sensor Please follow the steps below to program new door/window sensors into the 2GIG Edge panel: 1. Tap the setting cog icon and enter the default installer code 1561. 2. Scroll to the bottom of the screen to ...