Qolsys IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE, Honeywell/2GIG Compatible Posts

Qolsys IQ4 software version 4.6.1 is set to drop on June 9, and it's a BIG update. From support for PowerG+, including the new PowerG+/Z-Wave touchscreen door lock, to the all-new water tile, we're going to discuss what you can expect from this huge software update. Come, let's get into it!

The plan is for this software to be posted on June 9, 2025. That could change, but I would be surprised if it does. That doesn't mean that you'll be able to go to Menu > Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer or Dealer Code (1111, 2222 respectively, by default) > Upgrade Software > Upgrade Using Network and the panel will go out there and find 4.6.1 and install it.

When a new version is released, particularly a large one like this, it's usually only available by entering a Patch Tag at the panel, or by pushing it over-the-air through Alarm.com. This kind of slow rollout allows the update to be further vetted, making sure there are no previously unnoticed issues that need to be corrected. After the software has been out for a little while, it will be available for a blind upgrade, as described in the previous paragraph.

New Features in 4.6.1

Support for PowerG+ Devices and Features:

The following new PowerG+ sensors will be supported. This link has product images and links. The links below are for the specification sheets:

• PGP9303 - Vanishing Door/Window Sensor
• PGP9945E - Door/Window Sensor with Aux Input
• PGP9914 - Indoor PIR
• PGP9922 - Glass Break Sensor
• PGP9920 - Repeater
• PGP9934P - Indoor Cam PIR
• PGP9976 - Smoke Detector
• PGP9986 - Water Tile
• PGPIOX - PowerG+ Input/Output Module (PGM)
• PowerG+ 3-Way Switch and Dimmer

In addition to the list of newly supported devices, there are also features associated with PowerG+ that will only be supported in 4.6.1+. One such feature is Dealer Lockdown, which allows an alarm dealer to lock a PowerG+ sensor to their unique dealer code. This prevents another dealer from simply taking and reusing that sensor with a different panel. While this offers a significant level of control for traditional security companies, it doesn't really affect Alarm Grid customers.

Another addition for PowerG+ devices is battery level reporting to Alarm.com. This feature allows alarm dealers to view the battery status of all PowerG+ sensors on a system at a glance. This insight enables dealers to efficiently schedule service calls, replacing multiple low batteries in a single visit rather than making separate trips for each individual alert. This is a powerful operational benefit for traditional alarm companies, streamlining their maintenance processes.

Alarm Grid customers probably won't notice this feature, unless they're working with tech support on an issue for a PowerG sensor. Customers can always view battery status for compatible PowerG devices through the panel by going to "System Tests > PowerG Test" in the "Advanced Settings" menu. You can access this option using the Installer Code/Dealer Code/Master Code (1111, 2222, 1234, respectively, by default).

And finally, support for a maintenance warning for the new PGP9976 Smoke Detector is added in Software 4.6.1. Photoelectric smoke detectors have a sensing chamber with a photo sensor. Generally speaking, when smoke enters the chamber, it causes light to refract, hitting the photo sensor and causing an alarm. Over time, dust, dirt, cobwebs, and other debris can get into the sensing chamber, causing false alarms. The smoke detector can sense when this is happening and notify the panel, letting you know you need to clean the sensing chamber.

Additional New Features (Not Associated with PowerG+):

• Video Events to Panel: Analytic video event thumbnails, and annunciation of these events, can now be displayed on, and announced by, the IQ Panel 4 and IQ4 Hub. This means, based on your settings, you can receive an audible/visual notification with an image thumbnail directly on the panel. You'll be able to tell immediately if it's a person, a package drop-off, an animal, etc. based on the type of camera and the analytics rule configuration.
• Ambient Temperature Display: Now, the Dealer, Installer, or Admin user can select up to two (2) compatible PowerG/PowerG+ devices to show their ambient temperature on the Panel UI and Weather Clock.
• Silent Disarming: Now, when the system is armed Stay, users will see a "Silent Disarming" option on the panel UI. So, when you come home after working the night shift, you can enter and disarm without disturbing those who are still asleep.
• Mute Life-Safety Trouble Sounds: An option has been added to allow life-safety trouble sounds to be muted while the panel is in NightTime mode. Once the panel returns to regular operation, the trouble sounds will be annunciated.
• Support for Dark Mode on IQ Remote PG: Configurable per remote touchscreen. Hopefully, the option to have the panel and touchscreens follow Sunset/Sunrise and switch automatically will be in a future release.
• Adjust the order of Devices in the Lighting Screen: Users with a long list of automated lighting devices can now drag the most commonly used devices to the top of the list. This prevents having to scroll and search for them each time you want to control them manually.
• User Bypass Attribute: When creating a user code via the panel user interface, you can now select whether or not this user is allowed to bypass zones in order to arm. This feature requires that "Secure Arming" be enabled. Secure arming disables quick arming and requires a user code for every arming.
• Ecobee Thermostat Support: Ecobee thermostats that work with Alarm.com can now also be seen/controlled through the IQ panel UI.

This isn't everything included in this build, but it highlights what I believe are some of the more exciting additions. When the release notes become available, we'll post them to the site and update this post. There are a few bug fixes, and minor updates as well. The shade icon has been updated. The user interface for dimming lights has been improved. The Z-Wave firmware for the panel is updated from V7.15 to V7.18, improving performance for large networks.

This will be the base build for the new Qolsys IQ Panel 5 lineup, which will debut some time later in the year. Following the format set forth by the IQ4 lineup, there will be a Qolsys IQ5NS, IQ5 Hub, and IQ Panel 5, adhering to the "Good, Better, Best" philosophy. We'll have more on these new panels as information seeps out.

Unlike Resideo, Alarm.com doesn't manufacture alarm panels. Instead, they work with various panel manufacturers to provide alarm signal transport and remote control capabilities for their panels. Many users prefer the Alarm.com platform for its clean look and intuitive user interface (UI).

There are a couple of panel manufacturers who offer all-in-one systems that can easily replace a Lyric. The exception is for those users who have embraced Apple HomeKit. There is currently no Alarm.com capable panel that also supports HomeKit. There may never be. So, if you're firmly in the HomeKit camp, this option is probably not for you.

This post focuses on two Alarm.com-compatible panels: the 2GIG Edge and the Qolsys IQ Panel 4. Alarm.com requires cellular communication, and these panels cannot be registered without it. Therefore, each panel includes a built-in LTE cellular communicator, available in either AT&T or Verizon versions. Be sure to choose the cellular carrier who will have the best signal inside the protected premises.

While many Alarm.com systems support older Honeywell/Resideo wireless sensors, SiX Series sensors from a Lyric panel are incompatible and require replacement. Both Qolsys and 2GIG offer their own encrypted sensor options.

As mentioned above, users often find the Alarm.com user interface (UI) more intuitive than Total Connect 2.0. Additionally, Alarm.com consistently innovates, updates, and adds features that enhance the usability of their platform. Resideo also does this with Total Connect 2.0, but not as regularly. Alarm.com is also highly responsive to customer feedback, demonstrating a commitment to improving the Alarm.com user experience.

Another advantage is that the Alarm.com camera lineup is miles ahead of Resideo's. They offer a dizzying array of both residential and commercial grade cameras. If you're particular about your video options or you're just now looking to add video to your home or business for the first time, then Alarm.com is sure to have the right combination of cameras for you.

Replacing the Lyric with a 2GIG Edge:

2GIG was founded by two former Honeywell employees, so it stands to reason that all 2GIG panels can support legacy Honeywell sensors. Since its founding, 2GIG has expanded on its sensor compatibility and now offers encrypted sensors in their eSeries 345 MHz frequency, as well as long-range encrypted 900 Mhz sensors via the E+ Series.

Panel Hardware Options:

Both the 2GIG Edge With AT&T LTE communicator and the 2GIG Edge With Verizon LTE Communicator feature an LTE cellular communicator, 2.4 GHz WIFI capability, Z-Wave Plus V2 (700 Series), and a vertically adjustable front-facing camera. It is a very solidly built panel with a 7" LCD touchscreen interface. For a complete list of specifications, see the full data sheet.

The 2GIG Edge offers exceptional sensor versatility, supporting legacy Honeywell 5800 Series sensors, legacy 2GIG sensors, and the new encrypted 2GIG eSeries and E+ Series sensors. This comprehensive compatibility allows users to protect virtually any part of their property.

The E+ Series sensors boast a remarkable range of up to 2km, depending on environmental conditions. This impressive range extends protection to previously unreachable areas like barns or outbuildings.

One of the 2GIG Edge's most compelling features is its facial recognition disarming, a capability currently unavailable on the other panels we've discussed. Unlike cloud-based biometrics, the Edge stores all facial recognition data locally, ensuring your personal information remains exclusively on your system.

2GIG Edge Vs. Resideo PROA7PLUS - Feature Comparison

Replacing the Lyric with a Qolsys IQ Panel 4

Similar to the 2GIG Edge, Qolsys offers the IQ Panel 4 which is compatible with legacy Honeywell 5800 Series 345 MHz and 2GIG 345 MHz* sensors. In addition, it supports PowerG 915 MHz sensors. These sensors offer encryption, two-way communication and an impressive transmitting range to rival the 2GIG E+ Series.

*The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 cannot support the 2GIG eSeries 345 MHz sensors.

Panel Hardware Options:

Being an Alarm.com panel, the IQ Panel 4 includes a built-in AT&T or Verizon LTE cellular communicator. Additionally, IQ4 versions support various legacy sensors: Honeywell/2GIG (345 MHz), DSC (433 MHz), or Interlogix/Qolsys (319.5 MHz). Therefore, when selecting an IQ Panel 4, be sure you choose the correct communicator and legacy receiver to replace your Lyric. You can choose either the Qolsys IQ Panel 4, 345 MHz with AT&T & PowerG or the Qolsys IQ Panel 4, 345 MHz with Verizon & PowerG.

In addition to supporting 345 MHz legacy sensors and PowerG long-range wireless sensors, each IQ Panel 4 offers dual-band, 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WIFI capability, Z-Wave Plus V2 (700 Series), Bluetooth disarm and audio streaming, front-facing camera for optional disarm photos, and a 7" touchscreen interface. Check out the specification sheet for a full list of features.

Using Alarm.com:

Curious about the Alarm.com experience? Alarm Grid provides a demo account for you to explore its user interface. Use the following login credentials to get started at:
www.alarm.com/login:

• USERNAME: ADCDemo@alarmgrid.com
• PASSWORD: DemoP@ssw0rd

This demo account is fully loaded, providing a glimpse into features like motorized shades, locks, and water valves with water usage monitoring. The specific features available to you with an activated Alarm.com account will depend on the hardware installed in your unique system.

Be sure to check out the rest of this series on Preparing For the Eventual Lyric End-of-Life. In Part 1, we discuss the considerations when continuing to use the Lyric. In Part 2 we discuss replacing the Lyric with another all-in-one panel, in particular with one of the PRO Series systems. In Part 3 we discuss replacing the Lyric with one of the new Resideo First Alert hybrid panels, the VISTAH3.

Preparing for the Eventual Lyric End-of-Life - Part 3

Due to an anomaly with Qolsys IQ panels, this weekend's time change may cause panels to repeat the communicator test excessively. To prevent this, Alarm.com will move the test forward by three (3) hours. This will be a transparent change to customers but offers a unique learning opportunity.

Daylight Savings Time (DST) is one of those things that folks either love or hate. There are those who want to switch to DST permanently. Others think the whole process is a waste of time. Regardless of personal preference, the pervasive nature of DST reminders can serve as a helpful prompt for other important tasks.

For instance, fire departments often encourage people to test their smoke detectors during the time change. This is a convenient opportunity to ensure home safety. Interestingly, not all regions observe DST. Arizona, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not participate in the "Spring Forward/Fall Back" practice. We encourage residents of these locations and all others to test their smoke detectors this weekend!

The anomaly we mentioned above is fairly straightforward. Any Qolsys IQ Panel that is programmed to send a communication test between midnight and 2:00 am that falls on Saturday night/Sunday morning may send excessive reports when the automatic time change occurs this weekend. For this reason, Alarm.com will automatically move the communication test time for these customers forward by three (3) hours to prevent any issues.

That means if your system usually sends its communication test at 1:00 am, it will now send the report at 4:00 am this coming Sunday and each time the report is sent moving forward. This will be a transparent change for customers. When it comes to communication tests, you're only notified if they don't happen.

When we talk about a "communication test" we're talking about the equivalent of a "dialer test" on a panel that supports a phone line. Alarm systems supervise themselves in all sorts of ways. Individual wireless zones are supervised for check in and tamper, the panel itself has a cover tamper, and the cellular communicator has a supervision interval.

When we activate an account through Alarm.com, we set the communicator on the account for a supervision interval. If the Alarm.com server doesn't hear from the account for the specified supervision interval, a message is generated to the monitoring station and from them to us. We then reach out to the customer to see what's going on. Alarm Grid enables Daily cellular communicator supervision on all central station monitored accounts. Self-monitored accounts are inherently unsupervised.

The communication test that's programmed through the panel is a little different. This test is generated by the panel and helps to verify that the system itself is capable of sending a signal successfully, not just the communicator. By default, the communication test interval is set to weekly through panel programming. It can be set to daily, weekly, or monthly by going to Menu > Settings > Advanced Settings > Installation > Enter Installer Code (1111 by default) > Installer Settings > Communication Test and Communication Test Start Time.

This test, the one programmed through and sent by the panel, is the one that is affected by Daylight Savings Time. Chances are, you don't know whether or not your system is set to send this test. However, it's a good idea to configure it. It will help to verify that the panel is able to send signals through the communicator. As mentioned above, the default communicator test setting is Weekly.

If you don't program a time for the first test report, it will be randomized at the time the panel is either initially programmed at the factory, or when a Master Reset (factory default) occurs. Once the first test is sent, the panel will continue to send the test periodically, either daily, weekly, or monthly thereafter.

The takeaways from the time change are to remember to test your smoke detectors and any other life-safety devices you may have. You should test them at least twice a year, but Alarm Grid recommends monthly testing. And also, give some thought to checking your communication test settings in the Qolsys panel. This is a good automated test to ensure your system is working smoothly. Check out our FAQ on testing the IQ Panel 4.

Starting on April 23, 2024 an improvement is being implemented to the arming process for the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 and IQ Pro. This change increases customer awareness of when their sensors are being bypassed during remote arming. Previously, it was often unclear when zones were being bypassed.

The behavior changes slightly, depending on which panel version the user has. For IQ Panel 4 systems below firmware 4.5.0, and for IQ Pro systems below firmware 4.3.0n, the "Force Bypass" checkbox will be hidden both on the customer app and website to signal when the Auto Bypass feature will be applied to any open sensors and trouble conditions.

For IQ4 Panels on firmware 4.5.0 or higher, and IQ Pro panels on firmware 4.3.0n or higher, when the Auto Bypass feature is enabled, the Force Bypass checkbox will be hidden on the user app and website. This is to communicate to the user that Auto Bypass is enabled in the panel. Anything that would prevent arming is already going to be bypassed.

If Auto Bypass is disabled at the panel on these versions, the Force Bypass checkbox, which has now been renamed to "Bypass all open sensors/trouble conditions" will appear and will be checked by default. If the user deselects the checkbox and there are sensor open or trouble conditions that would prevent arming, the system will fail to arm.

Be sure your Alarm.com app is on version 5.3.1 or higher. This will allow you to take full advantage of this enhancement to the Alarm.com remote arming feature. To check whether or not your system has the auto-bypass feature enabled, you can tap the gray bar at the top of the main screen, then Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 by default) > Installation > Security and Arming. You can search from the top of the screen, just type in "Auto" and you should be taken directly to this setting. The "Auto Bypass" feature is enabled, by default.

The VERSA-2GIG sensors operate at 345 MHz and were created to work with all 2GIG panels, and with any Resideo panel that supports 2GIG Sensors. This includes the Lyric System and the PROA7 or PROA7PLUS with a PROTAKEOVER. Since its release, it has gone through a few changes to its programming.

The VERSA-2GIG Sensor with the cover removed:

To our knowledge, there have been three (3) iterations of the sensor. We'll discuss each iteration below. The VERSA-2GIG is an inexpensive alternative to other 2GIG or Honeywell/Resideo door/window sensors. It operates as a single alarm input, meaning that each VERSA-2GIG can monitor a single opening. It is almost the exact same sensor as the Resideo 5800MINI.

The 5800MINI Sensor with the cover removed:

First Iteration:

When the VERSA-2GIG Sensor was first released, it was programmed using Loop 2. During this time, the sensor had a pop-off cover that usually required some type of tool to remove it. It had five (5) notches on one side to indicate where the magnet should be placed to line up properly with the internal reed switch.

It may seem odd for a single input sensor to use Loop 2 instead of Loop 1, but this follows the programming of the 5816. This is the ubiquitous Ademco/Honeywell/Resideo wireless door/window contact. It has been around since modern wireless systems were first introduced.

The 5816 has two (2) available inputs. There are two screw terminals that you can wire a Normally Closed conventional wired door/window contact into. This input uses Loop 1. It also has a built-in reed switch that you can use with a magnet to monitor an opening. This input uses Loop 2. By using both inputs, the 5816 can take up two (2) separate panel zones and monitor two (2) separate openings, or monitor two (2) separate items on a single opening. The VERSA-2GIG is similar to a 5816, but without the terminals for a wired input.

If I were to venture a guess, I'd say there are millions of the 5816 wireless door contacts either still in use or having recently been replaced. They were so easy to install using only the magnet and the reed switch there are probably still installers out there who don't know the 5816 can support a Loop 1. Its use was so prevalent that when 2GIG made their own door/window sensor, the 2GIG-DW10-345, they mirrored the operation of the 5816. For all these reasons, the VERSA-2GIG programming on Loop 2 made sense to professional installers. For DIYers, it was a different story. There was a learning curve. Eventually, we all got on the same page.

Second Iteration:

Although using Loop 2 makes sense, the second iteration of the VERSA-2GIG required programming using Loop 1. Aside from the change to the way it programs, there were also some physical changes with this version.

The pop-off cover was replaced with a slide-off cover so that it can be opened without using any tools (and without damage to the plastic). In addition, on the side of the plastic cover over the reed switch, instead of five (5) lines indicating where the magnet should go, this second version has a single line showing where you should line up the magnet.

Below is a third iteration VERSA-2GIG. It has a slide-on cover and a single magnet placement notch, and it programs using Loop 2:

So, at this point, if you had a VERSA-2GIG with a pop-off cover and multiple lines on the side where the magnet goes, you used Loop 2, and if you had a slide-off cover with a single line showing where the magnet goes, you programmed using Loop 1 (usually).

In support, we've encountered VERSA-2GIG sensors that didn't program as we expected based on their physical characteristics. In those cases, we learned the sensor into the panel so that we could determine what Loop Number it was transmitting on.

Third Iteration:

The newest change to the VERSA-2GIG involves programming only. The newest VERSA-2GIG devices program using Loop 2 again. They still have the slide-off cover, and the single line on the side indicating where the magnet should be placed.

The problem is that the third iteration and the second iteration are physically the same. So, how can you tell which Loop Number to program? The easiest thing to do is to learn the sensor into the panel. When you do this, you need to be sure that you learn it while the VERSA-2GIG's cover is securely in place, and by having the magnet next to the sensor, then pulling it away, and then putting it back next to the sensor mimicking the opening and closing of the door or window. You may need to do this more than once before the serial number and loop number pop up, depending on your panel.

If the sensor is already mounted, then just be sure the cover is securely in place, then open and close the door or window as many times as it takes for your panel to learn the serial number and loop number. This will vary depending on which panel you're using.

And speaking of panels, I want to briefly discuss panel compatibility. As mentioned above, any 2GIG panel should support the use of the VERSA-2GIG. The Resideo (formerly Honeywell) panels that support it are the Lyric (as long as it has firmware version MR3 or higher) and the PROSeries.

This includes the PROA7 and PROA7PLUS, which are marketed under the Honeywell Home brand, as well as the PROA7C and PROA7PLUSC, which are marketed under the Resideo brand. The Resideo brand concentrates on commercial customers while the Honeywell Home brand focuses on residential ones. Like their Honeywell Home counterparts, the PROA7C and PROA7PLUSC require that the PROTAKEOVER be installed before they can support the VERSA-2GIG.

One more note about the PROSeries panels. A Lyric panel can support both Honeywell 345 MHz sensors and 2GIG ones. However, the PROTAKEOVER can only support one or the other. So, if you have a Lyric with both Honeywell and 2GIG sensors, and you want to upgrade to a PROSeries panel, you'll need to pick which legacy sensors you want to keep, and which you want to replace.

There is one more product line that supports the VERSA-2GIG sensors and that's the Qolsys IQ4 panels that support 345 MHz sensors:

• IQ Panel 4 with AT&T LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support
• IQ Panel 4 with Verizon LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support
• IQ4 Hub with AT&T LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support
• IQ4 Hub with Verizon LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support
• IQ4 NS with AT&T LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support
• IQ4 NS with Verizon LTE and Honeywell/2GIG Legacy Support

In firmware version 4.1.0 Qolsys added an Input Voltage Test feature to the other system tests already available in the panel. This is a boon to the DIY community, whose users often don't have a multimeter available to check things like input voltage. With this new feature, you can troubleshoot random or recurring AC Loss issues.

If you've been a DIYer in the alarm system community for any length of time, you may know that power issues can be caused by some things that most people wouldn't even think of. The wrong gauge wire, a wire run that is too long, or sometimes a combination of these two things can often lead to power issues. Particularly on the newer touchscreen all-in-one panels. The installation instructions on these panels are very clear about the wiring parameters required to properly power the system, but often people, even professional installers, overlook this information. The result can be nagging power issues that may make you want to pull your hair out!

In the DIY community, this issue can be compounded by the fact that many users don't have the type of equipment for troubleshooting that a professional installer does. Well, the Input Voltage Test feature can help with that. When you run this test, it checks the input voltage at the IQ Panel 4. You may get a different reading each time you run the test, based on the amount of current being consumed by the panel at that moment. In every case, the input voltage should be at least 6VDC or higher. If the panel receives input voltage below 6VDC, it will alert you that the voltage is low, and suggest ways that you can resolve the issue.

You can reach the Input Voltage Test by selecting the gray bar at the top of the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 screen, then choosing Settings > Advanced Settings > Entering the Installer or Dealer Code (Default is 1111 and 2222 respectively) > System Tests. When you select the Input Voltage Test, you'll see a screen like the one on the left below:

When you press "Start" the panel will do a real-time check of the input voltage at the panel. Each time you come to this screen and press the start button, a new test is run, and as mentioned above, the reading may vary a bit each time, depending on what's happening on the panel when you run the test. An example of when it would be good to check input voltage is in a situation where the panel has been reporting either an AC Loss, or a low battery condition, either constantly or randomly. One of the most important factors in having a healthy battery is providing good input power, which in turn provides good charging voltage. Often, one of the first symptoms of an input power problem is a low battery report.

There are still situations where a multimeter is helpful and will make troubleshooting much quicker. For example, if the low input voltage is being caused by a bad DC power adapter (the thing you plug into the wall) this test can't determine that. It can tell you that the voltage is too low, but not necessarily why it's too low. It also can't tell you if you have a bad piece of wire between the power adapter and the panel. To determine those things quickly, you still need a multimeter. We sell an inexpensive meter on our site, and you can probably also find one at your local hardware store.

So, while this test doesn't necessarily negate the usefulness of a multimeter, it will provide the DIY user with information that was unavailable to them before if they didn't possess a meter. When you're troubleshooting an ongoing issue, all pertinent information is helpful. Thank you to Qolsys for providing this handy tool!

Qolsys recently released firmware version 4.2.0, which added a lot of new features as well as fixes and improvements to the panel. However, after updating, a small number of panels reported receiving an error message regarding a panel shut down due to high temperature. This issue is corrected in firmware version 4.2.1.

If you see a message on your Qolsys IQ Panel 4, or IQ4 Hub, that mentions an overheating situation, and/or if the panel shuts itself down without you having a chance to see the message, don't worry. Use the power button on the side of the panel to turn it back on. Press and hold the button for three (3) seconds. Once the panel powers back on, update the firmware to 4.2.1. This should take care of the erroneous panel logic that is making the panel think the battery is too hot. Read the TSB# 221017 IQ Panel 4/IQ4 Hub - 4.2.1 Software Update - Release Notes and Instructions here.

As always, you have three (3) ways to update the panel firmware. If the panel is monitored and has a connection to WIFI, you can have your alarm dealer push the update to your panel over-the-air (OTA) using Alarm.com. You can also choose to request the update from the panel using a Patch Tag. Instructions for how to perform this type of update are included on our Qolsys IQ Panel 4 Firmware Updates page along with the update file, for those who don't have WIFI.

If you don't have a WIFI connection at the panel, then the previous two options are not available to you. In that case, you'll need to download the firmware file, which you can get at our above-linked page, and then use the panel's access point feature to perform the update. Instructions for this type of update are also included on Alarm Grid's IQ Panel 4 Firmware Updates page. We'll post them here as well to make things as easy as possible.

Instructions for Updating the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 Via Access Point

1. Download and save the required file from our site. You'll need to use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with WIFI capability to perform the update. Remember, the panel should have had 4.1.1 installed prior to installing the 4.2.0 (or higher) firmware.
2. On the IQ Panel 4, go to Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (Default 1111, or 2222 respectively) > Upgrade Software > "Upgrade Using Access Point". The Access Point will need to be enabled in order to use this feature.
   • To enable the Access Point, be sure the panel has WIFI enabled, then go to Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code > Installation > Devices > WIFI Devices. First, click on WIFI and be sure Activate WIFI has a Check in the box to the right. Then press the back arrow at the bottom of the screen. Go to Access Point Settings. Be sure the WIFI Access Point is enabled with a check in the box at the right. Press the Home button at the bottom of the screen, then go back to Step 2 and continue.
3. A QR Code will be displayed on the panel. Scan it with your phone or tablet. If you're on a device that won't allow you to scan the QR Code, then you will have to manually join the panel's access point network by entering the panel's SSID and Password which will be displayed on the same screen as the QR Code.
   
   
   
4. Press "Start" to begin the local server session, then from your device, scan the second QR code provided by the IQ Panel 4. If that is not an option, navigate to the "https:" URL shown on the panel's screen.
   
   
5. Follow the prompts on your phone, tablet, or computer to select the correct files and transfer them to the panel. The file you download is in .zip format. It should automatically unzip and create a folder called Software-Patch-421. This folder will have three (3) files in it.
   
   When you go to the URL or use the 2nd QR Code, you'll see a screen that will allow you to choose each of these three (3) files. When you click Choose File on each option, it will only allow you to select the correct file from those available. The other two files will be grayed out.
   
   
   
   Once all three files have been successfully chosen, press "Send Files". A progress bar will be shown on the phone, tablet, or computer, showing that the files are being uploaded to the IQ Panel 4. A message will come up saying "Uploaded ALL files successfully". Hit "Close" on the phone, tablet, or computer.
6. Once the files have been loaded to the IQ Panel 4, it should automatically begin the update. Once the update begins, don't touch the panel screen. The panel will reboot as part of the firmware update process.
   

Qolsys has released Firmware Version 4.2.0 for the IQ Panel 4, and the IQ4 Hub (coming very soon). This is a huge update with lots of new features and bug fixes. In this blog, we'll discuss what to expect from this release. The IQ Panel 4 MUST be on version 4.1.1 to install version 4.2.0.

For those of you with panels that can't access WIFI, we've updated our Qolsys IQ Panel 4 Firmware Updates page with the newest release. In addition, if your panel isn't yet on version 4.1.1, we have that file available too, so you can get your panel completely updated just by visiting our page. Just scroll down the page until you see the green download button for 4.1.1. Instructions on updating are included on the page.

The marquee feature in this release is support for the new Qolsys IQ WIFI 6. This is an all-new, IPv4 and IPv6 capable router purpose-built for security professionals. Out of the box it has three (3) partitions enabled. A Guest partition that is capable of using both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, and the Main partition that also supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The biggest differentiator for the IQ WIFI 6 is that it also has a Security partition. This partition is there to support all of the security system elements that use WIFI. This includes the panel itself, any Alarm.com video devices, and remote keypads that use WIFI in order to communicate with the panel. By putting security devices together on a partition that is controlled by the alarm dealer, WIFI issues for accidental configuration changes made by the end-user are virtually eliminated.

Alarm.com cameras will automatically move themselves to the Security partition if they are initially added to the network on one of the other partitions. The alarm dealer will have access through the Partner Portal and through Mobile Tech to configure and troubleshoot the IQ WIFI 6. The end-user will have access to configuration settings through the end-user website and the Alarm.com app.

The IQ WIFI 6 offers band steering, which causes WIFI devices to switch between the 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands. This is an ongoing process that optimizes both speed and reliability for each device on the network. Let's say you're walking through your home, on your smartphone, which is connected to WIFI, and you're surfing the web as you walk. When you're close to the router, 5GHz is likely the best band for you to be using. But as you walk further from the router, 2.4 GHz may become the better option. The IQ WIFI 6 will automatically cause you to switch from 5GHz to 2.4 GHz without you ever even knowing a change took place. Band steering is always enabled on the IQ WIFI 6. That means if you change the SSID for the 2.4 GHz band, the SSID for the 5 GHz band will be changed to match it.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 has an open slot where a new daughterboard can be installed. Qolsys will soon be offering a Zigbee card (QC000E-840) that can be installed in this slot. With the Zigbee card installed, the IQ Panel 4 can support both Zigbee automation devices and Zigbee security devices. There are alarm dealers out there (Comcast Xfinity) who use Zigbee sensors for their proprietary systems. If you have one of these systems and thought you were stuck either staying with your current company or purchasing all new equipment, rest easy. By adding the Zigbee card to an IQ Panel 4, you can replace just the alarm panel, keep your existing sensors, and move to any dealer who supports Alarm.com communication. It just so happens, Alarm Grid is one of those dealers! Firmware version 4.2.0 adds end-to-end Alarm.com support for Zigbee automation devices when the optional Zigbee daughtercard is installed.

This firmware release also prepares the IQ Panel 4 and IQ4 Hub to support Z-Wave 800 Series. At the core of Z-Wave 800 Series are the ZG23 SoC (System on Chip) and the ZGM230S, a module with a ZG23 already connected. Devices using this hardware will have low sleep and active current consumption, with 50% longer battery life than Z-Wave 700 Series. For modules that use coin cell batteries, Z-Wave 800 supports up to ten (10) year battery life. Using the ARM Cortex-M33 microprocessor, Z-Wave 800 delivers ~20% more processing power than the previous Cortex-M4. It can also support Z-Wave Long Range (LR), which has a wireless range of ~1.5 miles.

There is so much to unpack in 4.2.0 that we can't cover it all here. PowerG PIR Cameras, like the PG9934 will now send up to six (6) images to the Alarm.com backend for each device trip during the same arming period. Previously, only images from the first alarm trip were sent. There is a fix for improved WIFI connectivity between IQ Remote Keypads and the alarm panel, basically causing WIFI to toggle OFF and then ON if the remote keypad loses connection to the panel. There is new PowerG Modem Firmware (Version 3.0 / Build 10.87). To see everything that is included in this firmware release, you'll need to read the full Release Notes.

What do you think about Firmware Version 4.2.0 for Qolsys IQ Panel 4 and IQ4 Hub? Are you looking forward to the release of the new panel? Have you been following Z-Wave 800, or is this the first you've heard of it? Drop a comment below and let us know what you think, we always look forward to hearing from our readers. Until next time, stay safe!

The Smart Arming feature can be enabled for any residential customer who has an interactive monitoring plan with Alarm.com. Once enabled, the feature can easily be configured using either the customer website or iOS or Android app.

Once configured, the Smart Arming feature will automatically arm the system to the Stay Mode once the occupants of the home have gone to bed. This can be accomplished using a schedule, or by configuring certain door and/or motion sensors to work in conjunction with the feature. You can reach the Smart Arming settings by going to Security, or through the Automation page. The Smart Arming programming is listed as Goodnight for Arming, and Wake Up for Disarming.

For example, you can set the system to Arm Stay at 10:00 PM, or you can set the system to Arm Stay when no activity has been detected for 30 Minutes between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM (this is just an example, and you can use whatever time frame you want). If you choose the latter option, you then configure which zones you want to apply this logic to.

For the Stay Arming feature, doors, windows, and motions can be used along with the feature. So, once you choose the zones to be used with this logic, if no activity has been detected on ALL of those zones for a full 30 Minutes, and the time is between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM, the system will automatically Arm Stay. Smart Arming logic is canceled if the system is already Armed Away.

For Disarming the options are similar. You can set the system to Disarm at a specific time, or you can set it to Disarm when motion is detected on certain motion detectors within a specific time window. For example, in our screenshot below, you can see we have our system set to Disarm if the Upstairs Motion detects movement between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM. We also have it set so that if no motion is detected, the system will still disarm at 9:00 AM, which is sort of the best of both worlds.

Notice that only Motion Detectors are now available to tie to the Disarm logic. You don't want someone opening a door to disarm the system. By the same token, be sure that no outdoor motions are configured to work with this automation.

This is an excellent new feature that can go a long way toward preventing false alarms. No more forgetting to disarm the system when you go to let the dog out in the morning. As long as you set it up so that a motion you walk past on your way to the door causes the system to Disarm, you're all set. No more laying in bed wondering if you remembered to set the alarm. Now, as long as you have configured the Goodnight options, you know your system will arm itself based on either a schedule or activity (or lack thereof) combined with a time window.

The following Alarm.com compatible panels support this feature:

What do you think of this new Alarm.com feature? For that matter, what do you think of Alarm.com's commitment to bringing you new products and features in general? They're doing an excellent job of listening to customers and responding with great new options. Drop us a note in the comments and let us know what you think. We always look forward to hearing from you!

Alarm Grid's distributor now has the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 in white available with the 345 MHz receiver in both the AT&T and Verizon versions. The same panel, in black, will soon be available. This panel supports both the legacy 345 MHz 2GIG and Honeywell RF sensors and the DSC PowerG sensors.

If you're looking to upgrade from a panel with either 2GIG or Honeywell 345 MHz sensors, or maybe a combination of both, then you should check out the Qolsys IQ Panel 4, now available, with support for these older wireless sensors. The IQ Panel 4 is an upgrade from the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 with a newer OS, more memory, and a faster processor.

At the center of the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 is a Qualcomm MSM8953 chipset with an 8-core Qualcomm SnapDragon Processor. It has 16 GB of NAND Flash memory. The base operating system is Android 9. By comparison, the IQ Panel 2 and 2 Plus used Android 5.1 as a base, with a quad-core processor. These updates in hardware and software for the IQ Panel 4 mean that it has tons of expansion capability, with the hardware and software to support it. Updated hardware supports updated software as well as new features. Expect lots of updates to this system, much of it based on customer feedback.

There are other updates too. The front-facing camera has been upgraded from 5MP to 8MP. In addition to a higher resolution, the camera also has a wider 120° viewing angle allowing it to capture more context with disarm images and peek-ins. The vertical tilt angle of the camera can be manually adjusted by the user to dial-in the best angle for disarm photos based on the height of panel users.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 has support for up to 128 zones, using PowerG and/or Honeywell or 2GIG 345 MHz RF sensors. This makes it the perfect replacement for an older Honeywell or 2GIG system with working sensors still installed. PowerG sensors, manufactured by DSC, are fully encrypted with 128-bit AES encryption and are also supported on every version of the Qolsys IQ Panel 4. They have an open-air range of up to 4,000' (1219m) when used with this panel. And in the unlikely event that you still have a range issue, there are PowerG Repeaters available to boost the range.

The Newest IQ Panel 4 Versions and Kits, now available from Alarm Grid:

Panel Only:

• IQP4003: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE, Honeywell/2GIG Compatible
• IQP4006: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE, Honeywell/2GIG Compatible



Unencrypted Kits:

• QOLSYS-IQP4-4003PK-VZ: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 Mhz in White Verizon LTE 3-1 Kit
• QOLSYS-IQP4-4006PK-AT: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 Mhz in White AT&T LTE 3-1 Kit


• QOLSYS-IQP4-4003PK10-VZ: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 Mhz in White Verizon LTE 10-1 Kit
• QOLSYS-IQP4-4006PK10-AT: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 Mhz in White AT&T LTE 10-1 Kit



Encrypted Kits:

• QOLSYS-IQP4-4006PGPK-AT: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 MHz in White AT&T LTE 3-1 PowerG Kit
• QOLSYS-IQP4-4003PGPK-VZ: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 MHz in White Verizon LTE 3-1 PowerG Kit


• QOLSYS-IQP4-4006PGPK10-AT: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 MHz in White AT&T LTE 10-1 PowerG Kit
• QOLSYS-IQP4-4003PGPK10-VZ: Qolsys IQ Panel 4 345 MHz in White Verizon LTE 10-1 PowerG Kit

Each of the unencrypted kits listed above includes the Versa-2GIG Door/Window Sensors. In the 3-1 kits, there are three (3) of these, in the 10-1 kits there are ten (10). These kits also include one (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG PIR motion sensor. The encrypted kits listed above contain either three (3) or ten (10) DSC PG9303 PowerG Door/Window Sensors, and one (1) DSC PG9914 PowerG PIR. The 3-1 kits are a great start for installations in apartments and small homes, while the 10-1 kits are great for larger homes and small businesses.

With its 700-Series Z-Wave Plus V2 controller, up to 137 Z-Wave, Z-Wave Plus, and Z-Wave Plus V2 devices can be integrated with the system. This includes Lights, Locks, Thermostats, Water Valves, and Relays. When purchasing new Z-Wave devices, always choose devices with the latest version of Z-Wave supported by the controller whenever possible. Doing so will provide the best possible user experience. Older and newer Z-Wave devices can be installed on the same network, as long as the user is aware of the limitations when such a configuration is used. Up to 242 users are supported on the IQ Panel 4 with one (1) Dealer Code, one (1) Installer Code, and 240 users with the role of Master, User, Guest, or Duress applied to each.

As a quick reminder, the IQ Panel 4 has either a Verizon or AT&T LTE cellular communicator built in. Be sure when purchasing your panel that you choose the carrier that has the best possible signal in the installation area, regardless of what carrier your personal cell phone may use. And when choosing a plan from Alarm Grid to use with your IQ Panel 4, remember that you will need a plan that supports Cellular Alarm Communication. That will be either a Gold or Platinum Plan (Self or Full). If you don't want to take advantage of the Alarm.com app or webpage features, then you can also choose our Cellular Alarm Monitoring plan, which includes Central Station Monitoring, with no remote control capabilities.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 is a panel that's truly ready for the future. Qolsys has taken all the feedback they received with their IQ Panel 2, addressed the few inefficiencies and form factor issues, and have really come out with a nearly perfect offering. When coupled with Alarm.com, the Qolsys IQ Panel 4 is a formidable tool in keeping your loved ones and your belongings safe.