Check to see whether the ready light is on. If so, the system is ready to be alarmed. If not, ensure all doors and windows are closed and that no one will be moving around in the areas where there are motion detectors.
Enter your access code. A beep should follow each digit being pressed. If the code is incorrect, a sustained sound will occur. Press the "#" key and enter the correct code.
Listen for a quick beeping sound and observe that the armed light has come on.
Exit through the indicated door. There will be a period of time allowed for this exit and then all lights barring the armed light will have turned off.
Head directly to the system upon entering the house.
Enter your access code into the alarm. If you enter the incorrect code, press the "#" key and then enter the correct code.
Check the trouble light. If any trouble was uncovered by the alarm during your absence, the trouble light will be on.
Check the memory and zone lights for an indication of any break in the alarm during your absence.