Alarm.com Posts

2GIG released Firmware Version 1.2 for the GC Touch security panel in August 2026. This update adds new chime options, additional Dark Mode options, and the ability to control door locks straight from the video doorbell screen.

Adding these new features doesn't require a new panel or a truck roll. The update can be installed over the air or via the panel's USB port, and it makes a panel you already own more convenient and user-friendly every day. The GC Touch is available in both AT&T and Verizon versions, with the cellular communicator included from the factory.

What's New in Firmware 1.2

• Custom chime options. The primary user can now select which chime plays for door and window activity, instead of being stuck with one default sound.
• Voice annunciation with chimes. Voice announcements can now run alongside the chime options above, so the panel can speak and chime when a zone is faulted.
• Manual date and time. Date and time can be set right on the panel instead of relying only on automatic updates.
• Improved localization screens. The screens used to set language and region have been cleaned up.
• Scheduled Night Mode. Night Mode can now be set to turn on and off automatically at times you choose.
• Scheduled or automatic Dark Mode. Dark Mode can run on a schedule you set, or follow sunset and sunrise automatically.
• Lock control from the video doorbell screen. Locks can now be controlled directly from the video doorbell streaming screen, without backing out to a different menu.
• Faster code entry on PAD1. PAD1 no longer requires pressing "Enter" after a code, so arming and disarming take one less step.
• Chime added to walk test. Walk tests now include a chime, making it easier to confirm a sensor triggered during testing.

How to Update Your GC Touch

2GIG makes this update available over the air, through cellular or WIFI via Alarm.com. If you'd like your panel updated to Firmware 1.2 now, contact Alarm Grid support and we can get it scheduled. Updates using WIFI are free. If you don't have WIFI, there is a small charge for sending the update. The amount depends on the size of the download.

If you don't have WIFI at your panel and want to avoid this charge, you can update your panel yourself. Download the firmware from our site and apply it through the USB-C port on the back of the panel. Full instructions are available in our GC Touch firmware update guide, and you can download the firmware file from our downloads page. Alarm Grid passes the cellular update fee along at cost, with no markup, and it's added to your next billing cycle.

Get More From Your Security System

Not set up with a GC Touch yet? Alarm Grid carries the full lineup of 2GIG touchscreen panels, and every system we sell can be paired with monitoring that has no contracts, no activation fees, and no termination fees.

Check out our monitoring plans and get live 24/7 monitoring for your home or business. If you have questions, reach out to our support team. We're here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time. You can reach us at 888-818-7728 or by email at support@alarmgrid.com. If you visit our website between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM Eastern, you can also chat with a live agent.

Update:

This issue was resolved September 17, 2026 before midnight. No further details were provided.

Alarm.com is dealing with an ongoing signaling issue that started on September 17, 2026, affecting signaling on some customer accounts, plus access to the Alarm.com dealer and customer interfaces. As of Alarm.com’s most recent update, the issue has not yet been marked resolved.

Alarm.com said the issue began around 5:00 PM ET on 9/17/26. By 5:50 PM ET, systems had stabilized, though customers could still see delays receiving notifications or sending commands like arming and disarming. As of the most recent update at 7:47 PM ET, Alarm.com reported the situation remains stable, but has not issued a notice that the issue is resolved.

What This Means for You

If you use Alarm.com’s app for notifications or remote arming and disarming, you may notice a lag or a missed alert while this is ongoing. It's also possible that a queued notification will be delayed, then come through at a later time.

What to Do Now

Since Alarm.com hasn’t posted an all-clear yet, keep an eye on your app for delayed notifications, a system that shows offline, or trouble sending commands. If you notice any of these, try closing and reopening the app first. If the problem continues or you have questions about your account, contact our support team and we’ll help you check your system’s status.

You can reach us at 888-818-7728, or via email at support@alarmgrid.com. Our support team is here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM (ET). You can also visit our website and chat with a live agent between the hours of 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (ET).

We’ll update this post as soon as Alarm.com posts a resolution notice.

If your Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0 alerts show up as text messages, they may rely on an old email-to-text trick that carriers are now shutting down. You might not notice when it quietly stops working. AT&T and T-Mobile have already cut theirs off for good, and Verizon's shutdown looms.

This isn't a rumor or a future warning. For two of the three major carriers, it has already happened. If you set up your alarm notifications years ago and haven't touched them since, this is worth five minutes of your time today.

What Is Email-to-Text, and Why Did People Use It?

Before Alarm.com and Total Connect 2.0 offered push notifications through their own apps, there was a popular workaround for getting alarm alerts as text messages. Every major carrier had (or still has) a special email address format that turns an email into a text. Send an email to a phone number followed by the carrier's domain, like 5551234567@vtext.com for Verizon or 5551234567@tmomail.net for T-Mobile, and it lands on that phone as an SMS.

Alarm.com and Total Connect 2.0 both let you add an email address as a notification destination. Plenty of customers used that feature with a carrier's email-to-text address instead of a real email inbox, which let them get alarm alerts as texts without needing a smartphone app at all. It worked well for a long time, especially before push notifications existed as an option.

Carriers Are Shutting the Gateway Down

Email-to-text was never officially part of how Alarm.com or Total Connect 2.0 were designed to send alerts. It only worked because carriers allowed it, and carriers are walking that back.

T-Mobile hasn't published anything official about this, which is why we can't point you to a source the way we can for AT&T and Verizon. Based on reports from users online, the shutdown appears to have happened quietly around the same time as AT&T's, on June 17, 2025.

Why This Is Risky If You're Still Using It

The dangerous part isn't that this feature is going away. It's how it goes away. There's no error message on your alarm system and no warning in the app. The text messages just stop arriving, and unless you're specifically testing your system, you may not find out until you need an alert and it never comes.

For an alarm or fire notification, that gap is exactly the wrong place to lose reliability.

Alarm.com Already Saw This Coming

This shift didn't come out of nowhere. Back in March 2024, Alarm.com rolled out a push notification migration tool aimed at customers on carriers with degraded SMS and MMS delivery, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Rogers in Canada among them. At the time, Alarm.com called the migration voluntary, but noted it "may become mandatory" if carrier changes made it necessary. That's more or less what's happening now.

Switch to Push Notifications Today

Push notifications don't depend on carrier text messaging at all. They travel over your phone's internet connection, cellular data or WiFi, straight to the Alarm.com app or the Total Connect 2.0 app. That also means they can do things a text message can't, like let you act directly on an alert or come through even when your phone is set to Do Not Disturb.

Open your notification settings in the Alarm.com app or the Total Connect 2.0 app and make sure push notifications are turned on for the alerts you care about, arming and disarming, sensor activity, and alarms especially. If you're not sure how your account is currently set up, or you want help moving away from an old email-to-text address, contact our support team and we'll walk through it with you.

Not an Alarm Grid customer yet? Take a look at our monitoring plans. No contracts, no activation fees, and no cancellation fees, just straightforward alarm monitoring.

No need to consult your Magic 8 Ball on this one, we'll be glad to help you answer it! In short: if your alarm system or communicator runs on Alarm.com or AlarmNet, it likely isn't locked to one company. It just needs to be properly released from the original provider's monitoring account.

Homeowners may assume their alarm system belongs to whoever installed it. If a monitoring company set up the equipment, doesn't that company own it forever? Not necessarily. Alarm.com and AlarmNet (the network behind Resideo's Total Connect service) aren't owned by any single monitoring company. So once your system is released from the current account, any other monitoring company affiliated with the communication platform can pick up the monitoring.

What Makes a System "Non-Proprietary"

Most modern security panels talk to a monitoring company through one of a few shared networks. Two of the most common are Alarm.com and AlarmNet. Neither network is owned by a single monitoring company. Dozens of providers, including Alarm Grid, offer monitoring on panels that use them.

That's different from a proprietary system, where the panel only works with one company's software and can't be reprogrammed to work with anyone else. If your panel uses Alarm.com or AlarmNet, there's a good chance it was built to be flexible from day one, even if the company that installed it isn't.

The Exception: Some Equipment on These Networks Is Still Proprietary

Running on Alarm.com or AlarmNet doesn't automatically mean a system is open to any provider. Some companies build their own locked-down equipment on top of these shared networks. This shows up most with ADT, but Vivint and a few other large providers do it too. The hardware often comes from the same manufacturers everyone else uses, but it ships with a company-specific firmware, a modified part number, or an account binding that ties it to one provider alone.

If you own one of these proprietary devices, you'll generally need to replace it before you can switch monitoring companies, even though under the hood it communicates over one of these shared networks. One thing to look for is a company-specific tag added to an otherwise standard part number, like the "-ADT" or "-BRK" endings in the table below. If you're not sure whether your panel is proprietary, check the exact model number printed on the panel or the communicator and ask a prospective new monitoring company to confirm before you commit to switching.

A note on the list below: these model numbers came from online research, not from the manufacturers or monitoring companies themselves. Because this kind of information is treated as proprietary, we have limited ability to confirm it's fully accurate or current. If your equipment matches, or looks close to, one of these models, confirm its status with a prospective monitoring company before assuming anything either way.

What About Ring and SimpliSafe?

You'll also see Ring and SimpliSafe promoted heavily any time you search for a security system, especially as a DIY installer. These aren't professional-grade systems, meaning professional installers likely aren't installing them, and they're a different kind of proprietary than the ADT and Vivint equipment described above. Neither Ring nor SimpliSafe run on Alarm.com or AlarmNet. Instead, they're built on their own closed platforms from the ground up, so there's no shared network to release your equipment into.

If you want ongoing monitoring on a Ring or SimpliSafe system, you're locked into their monitoring plans (Ring Protect or SimpliSafe's monitoring service) for as long as you own that hardware. Switching providers on this kind of system generally means replacing the equipment in its entirety, not simply requesting a release of your system.

The Real Rule: One Company at a Time

Here's the part that trips people up. A non-proprietary system can only be monitored by one company at a time. While your equipment is active on an account with your current provider, no other company can take over monitoring for it, even though the technology may allow it. The system has to be released from the original account first.

This is where some customers get stuck. Say you've decided to cancel, your equipment is paid off, and you're no longer under contract with the installing company. At your request, your alarm company should release the equipment so you can take it to a new provider.

Some companies make this difficult. They may tell you your system or its communicator can't be used anywhere else. In most cases involving non-proprietary Alarm.com or AlarmNet equipment, like the kind described as non-proprietary above, that isn't true. The system can be used elsewhere. It just needs to be released first.

In most circumstances, AlarmNet and Alarm.com will not facilitate the release of a system. Think of your old monitoring company and your prospective new one as warring nations. In this analogy, AlarmNet and Alarm.com are Switzerland. They don't take sides. One exception to this rule is when the original monitoring company is defunct and your equipment is stuck tied to an account nobody is managing anymore.

How Alarm Grid Handles It

Alarm Grid was built around the idea that customers should never feel trapped. We don't use contracts. We don't charge activation fees. We don't charge cancellation fees.

If you ever decide to cancel your account with us, we'll ask why. We'll see if there's anything we can do to fix the problem or find you a better plan. But once it's clear you want to move on, we process the cancellation and release your equipment. That frees it up to be picked up by any other monitoring company that supports your system's platform, whether that's Alarm.com or AlarmNet.

Know Before You Buy (or Switch)

If you're shopping for alarm monitoring, or thinking about switching providers, ask these questions before you sign up with anyone. First, does the equipment run on Alarm.com or AlarmNet? Second, is any of the equipment proprietary? Third, does the company require a contract, and do they charge fees for cancellation or early termination? The answers will tell you how much freedom you'll actually have down the road.

Ready to make the switch, or start fresh with an easy, no-contract monitoring plan? You can email us with questions at support@alarmgrid.com or call us at 888-818-7728. We're here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time, and happy to help you figure out whether your current system can be moved to a new provider.

ADT, Vivint, Brinks Home Security, Ring, and SimpliSafe are trademarks of their respective owners. Alarm Grid is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any of these companies.

UPDATE: This issue has been resolved as of 07/02/26. Once resolved, information about the issue was removed from Alarm.com notices, so we don't have an exact time of resolution.

Alarm.com has confirmed a technical issue affecting remote commands sent to LiftMaster and Chamberlain smart garage door devices. The issue began at midday on July 1, 2026. It may cause a delay when you try to open, close, or check the status of your garage door through Alarm.com. Some installers may also have trouble adding new LiftMaster or Chamberlain devices to a system until the issue is fixed.

If you didn't know, you can add a compatible LiftMaster or Chamberlain garage door to your Alarm.com account. We have an FAQ that walks through the integration on a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus, but the setup is nearly the same for any panel that supports the feature.

Alarm.com is actively working on a fix and has not yet given an end time for the issue. No action is needed on your part. If you use a LiftMaster or Chamberlain garage door opener with your system, you may notice a delay before your commands go through until the issue is resolved.

We will update this post as soon as Alarm.com resolves the issue. In the meantime, if you have any questions, contact the Alarm Grid support team at support@alarmgrid.com or call us at 888-818-7728.

Qolsys has released IQ Panel 5 firmware version 5.0.2 with performance improvements, bug fixes, and upgrades to PGM rules on the entire IQ Panel 5 family. Unlike IQ4 systems, the IQ5 lineup no longer supports local firmware updates through the panel access point and now relies solely on WIFI.

Firmware Updates on IQ4 vs IQ5 Panels

The IQ4 family of panels allows firmware updates to be installed locally using the panel’s built-in access point feature, commonly called Panel AP. This method allowed a user or installer to download the firmware file to a phone or tablet, connect directly to the panel and transfer the file, then install the update.

While this feature was convenient in certain situations, it was seldom used in real-world installations. Most IQ panel firmware updates are performed using WIFI and the panel’s built-in network update tools. Because of this, Qolsys removed local firmware installation support from the IQ Panel 5 family.

This change affects the following systems:

• IQ Panel 5
• IQ5 Hub
• IQ5 NS

These panels can still receive firmware updates directly from Qolsys or Alarm.com using an internet connection, but downloadable firmware files are no longer provided for local installation. However, you can bookmark our IQ5 Family Firmware Update Page for information about future updates.

How to Update IQ Panel 5 Firmware

Before starting the update process, make sure the panel is connected to WIFI and is powered by AC with a charged backup battery. The panel must be on version 5.0.1 before installing 5.0.2. To find the current version, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer Code (default:1111) > About > Tap Software. Verify your panel is on software 5.0.1.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen and touch “Settings.”
2. Tap “Advanced Settings.”
3. Enter the Installer Code. The default is 1111.
4. Tap “Upgrade Software.”
5. Touch “Patch Tag.”
6. Enter the patch tag: iqpanel5.0.2
7. Touch “OK.”
8. Touch “Upgrade Using Network.”
9. Allow the panel to download and install the update.
10. When prompted, touch “OK” to reboot the panel.

The software install and reboot process can take several minutes. Do not interact with the touchscreen while the update is being installed.

Using “Upgrade Using Network” Without a Patch Tag

You can also update the panel without entering a patch tag. In many cases, simply selecting “Upgrade Using Network” will allow the panel to contact Qolsys servers and automatically search for available firmware.

However, when a firmware release is very new, Qolsys may initially restrict the automatic update path while the rollout is being staged. During that time, the firmware may only be available by entering the correct patch tag manually.

Once the rollout becomes fully public, the patch tag is usually no longer necessary.

Update Via Alarm.com

For those who are less into Do It Yourself, and more into Do It Together, you can request that your alarm dealer push the firmware update for you using Alarm.com. The Alarm.com server can tell if there are one or more firmware updates available for your panel based on its current version. The server will advise which updates should be installed, and will recommend the proper order, if multiple updates are available.

What’s New in Firmware Version 5.0.2?

Firmware version 5.0.2 includes several fixes and improvements for the IQ Panel 5 family.

• Fixed an issue where the siren could continue sounding during a Panel Test.
• Improved IQ Installer App pairing performance with IQ5 systems.
• Resolved an issue where the panel could reboot while writing health memory data.
• Updated touchscreen sensitivity calibration.
• Added updated supervision support for new PGP Heat Detectors, including the PGP9979 and PGP8979.
• Fixed certain PGM rule behaviors when using compatible W2W and IOG modules.

As with previous Qolsys firmware releases, version 5.0.2 focuses heavily on stability improvements and better long-term reliability for both installers and end users.

If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you need help updating your IQ Panel 5, IQ5 Hub, or IQ5 NS firmware, our support team is happy to assist. You can email us at support@alarmgrid.com or call us at 888-818-8283. Our support hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM ET. Please have your panel connected to WIFI before beginning the update process.

Alarm Grid is excited to introduce the Alarm.com ADC-V530, a next-gen indoor camera designed to rethink privacy, visibility, and control. With powerful analytics, built in spotlight, and a unique privacy shield, this camera delivers smarter awareness without compromising your peace of mind.

Alarm.com ADC-V530 shown with the LED on:

The ADC-V530 is not just another indoor camera. It tackles one of the biggest concerns people have always had with indoor video: privacy. Instead of just turning the camera on or off, this model includes an Automatic Privacy Shield that can physically block the lens when the system is disarmed or based on custom scenes and schedules. It is a big step forward, giving users real, visible control and peace of mind.

That privacy control goes even further with a physical button right on the camera. A quick tap opens or closes the shutter instantly, so you always know exactly when the camera can and cannot see. Even better, this works even if the camera is offline, so you are never dependent on an app or connection to maintain your personal privacy.

ADC-V530 Shown with the privacy shutter closed:

The reset (🔄) button, located on the back of the camera housing, is used to manually control the privacy shutter. Manual control is available as long as the camera has power. To toggle the shutter between open and closed, quickly press and release the button. This is the same button used to factory reset the camera. If the button is pressed and held for ten (10) seconds, a factory reset will begin. So, be careful when manually controlling the shutter.

A few things to keep in mind: if the privacy shutter is manually closed, it must also be manually opened. Automation schedules or system events will not change the shutter’s position once it has been manually set. If the camera loses power, the shutter will remain in its last position when power is restored.

Of course, privacy is only part of what makes this camera stand out. The ADC-V530 delivers sharp 4MP HDR video with a wide 110 degree field of view. That means clearer images in both bright and low light conditions, making it easier to see what is really happening inside your home.

HDR, or High Dynamic Range, is what helps the camera handle both very bright and very dark areas at the same time. Instead of losing detail in shadows or having bright spots get washed out, HDR balances the image so you can see everything more clearly. This is especially helpful indoors when sunlight is coming through a window, keeping faces and important details easy to make out.

The built in LED spotlight adds another layer of awareness that many indoor cameras simply do not have. It can brighten up a dark space or draw attention to unexpected activity, helping make sure nothing slips by unnoticed. It can also act as a deterrent, letting would-be burglars know they're being watched.

You also get full duplex two way audio, which makes conversations feel natural instead of awkward or delayed. Whether you are checking in on family, talking to a visitor, or addressing something unexpected, communication is smooth and immediate.

Where this camera really shines is in its smart video analytics. It can tell the difference between a person and general motion, which helps cut down on annoying false alerts. Pair that with the Smart View timeline, and you can quickly jump to important moments like when a person is detected or a door is accessed. And with onboard recording enabled (MicroSD card required), you can also scroll through continuous footage instead of being limited to just event-activated clips.

When it comes to storage, the ADC-V530 brings some welcome improvements. It supports encrypted onboard recording with a microSD card, along with SVR options. That means your important video is still preserved even if your network goes down, solving a common frustration with cloud-only cameras.

Setup is also flexible and straightforward. The camera supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WIFI, and you can even use Ethernet if you want a more stable connection. It is designed to fit into just about any installation without hassle.

Features like Perimeter Guard and manual warning sounds also help you take action when it matters. Instead of just recording what happens, the camera gives you tools to respond in real time.

Overall, the Alarm.com ADC-V530 feels like a smart step forward for indoor cameras. It focuses on what users actually care about, like privacy, smarter alerts, and better control. If you are looking to upgrade your system, this is definitely a camera to be excited about.

For Alarm Grid customers, a Platinum Plan (Self or Full) or a Video Monitoring account is needed to use the Alarm.com ADC-V530. If you have questions about this, or any Alarm.com camera, our support team is available from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday - Friday. You can also visit our website to chat with a live support agent Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

At Alarm Grid, we believe customers should have the freedom to purchase alarm equipment from the source that works best for them. That includes third-party distributors, online marketplaces, and even other end users.

We do not discourage customers from bringing their own equipment. However, it is important to understand that purchasing equipment outside of Alarm Grid can come with certain risks.

One of the most common issues involves used or outdated equipment. While a device may power on and appear functional, it could have hidden problems. Sensors may have reduced battery life, keypads could show excessive wear, and communicators might not perform as expected. In some cases, equipment may be damaged, outdated, or missing critical components.

We have also encountered activation issues with older LTEM-P, LTEM-PX, and IP-COM communicators purchased through third-party sellers. Some older stock did not receive a required critical firmware update and can no longer be serviced. Units with MAC addresses beginning with B82CA0, typically manufactured around 2020 or 2021, and some beginning with 48A2E6, may be affected. Even if these communicators are new in box, they may not be capable of activation.

Another serious concern is account association. Many alarm communicators are registered to an AlarmNet or Alarm.com account. If a used communicator was previously installed and removed during an upgrade, it may automatically attempt to re-register to the original account.

When that happens, the communicator ties back to the previous dealer or seller. If they do not release it, we cannot activate or service the unit. In some cases, the only options are to convince the seller to release the device or purchase a new communicator, which can delay monitoring by days.

Before purchasing from a third party, confirm the seller has a clear return policy. Verify that the communicator firmware is current and that it does not have a B82CA0 or 48A2E6 MAC prefix. Whenever possible, purchase newer equipment from a reputable distributor or retailer.

If you already have a communicator, and you suspect it may be affected by this issue, do not connect it to a wired network before activation. Immediately after powering it up, press and hold the test or registration button for 30 seconds, then release it to default the unit. Completing this step prior to your activation appointment can help prevent registration conflicts.

Ultimately, the simplest way to avoid these issues is to purchase new equipment from a trusted source. When a communicator is purchased through Alarm Grid and found to be defective, we can typically process a replacement in less than 24 hours, helping to minimize downtime.

Alarm Grid is here to support our current and future monitored customers, no matter where you purchase your equipment. We simply want you to begin the process informed and prepared. Our team is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. If you have questions, reach out to us by email at support@alarmgrid.com or by phone at 888-818-7728. You can also use the live chat feature available on our website at alarmgrid.com.

Update: All versions and kits now available!!

The IQ Panel 5 family has officially arrived, and we now have stock available on every model. The IQ Panel 5 family represents a major step forward in security system technology, featuring the Qualcomm DragonWing quad-core processor, Android 14, and built-in PowerG wireless support across all panel variants.

Stock is now available on every panel in the IQ5 family with the exception of the IQ5 Hub with AT&T LTE. As manufacturing ramps up, this panel will become available. We'll update this post when that happens.

IQ Panel 5 Family Variations

As the rollout continues, we will see additional variations become available. You can see a list of all of them below:

If you click any of the product links above for items that are not yet available, the product page will appear with a placeholder price. Once these items become available, we will update the pricing and this blog. You can bookmark this post and check back anytime to see the latest availability for the panel variation that interests you.

Daughter Cards

All IQ Panel 5 family panels come with PowerG built-in. If you need to support legacy wireless sensors from an existing system, you can add an optional daughter card. These are the same cards used with the IQ Panel 4 and are available now:

Accessories

Each IQ Panel 5 family system includes a SmartMount wall mount bracket in the box. The table stand is sold separately and works with all three panel models:

IQ Panel 5 Family Kits

Looking to get everything you need in one package? Our starter kits bundle a panel with the new PowerG+ sensors, the updated line of PowerG sensors featuring a sleeker, more modern design while delivering the same long-range, encrypted wireless performance PowerG is known for.

3-1 Kits are perfect for smaller homes or apartments. Each kit includes one panel, three PGP9303 door/window sensors, and one PGP9914 motion sensor.

10-1 Kits are ideal for larger homes with more entry points. Each kit includes one panel, ten PGP9303 door/window sensors, and one PGP9914 motion sensor.

IQ Panel 5 Kits:

IQ Hub Kits:

IQ5 NS Kits:

What is the IQ Panel 5 Family?

Like the IQ Panel 4 family, the IQ Panel 5 comes in three distinct variants designed to meet different installation needs and budgets:

IQ Panel 5 is the flagship model with a 7-inch HD touchscreen, built-in 13MP PortraitView camera for disarm photos, built-in glass break detection, dual microphones, and all the advanced features you would expect from a top-tier panel. The camera automatically captures photos without requiring manual tilt adjustment.

IQ5 Hub delivers the same 7-inch touchscreen experience and software interface as the IQ Panel 5 at a more accessible price point. It shares the same processor, operating system, and a similar feature set, making it an excellent choice for customers who want full touchscreen functionality without the flagship price.

IQ5 NS (No Screen) eliminates the touchscreen entirely. This panel is designed to be mounted out of sight and configured through the IQ Installer app available on iOS or Android. Status is conveyed through LED indicators: green for disarmed, red for armed. The IQ5 NS is ideal for installations where the panel will be hidden in a closet or utility room, and users prefer to control their system through the Alarm.com app, an IQ Remote keypad, or a third-party automation system like Control4.

IQ Panel 5 Family Comparison Chart

Key Improvements Over Previous Generations

All IQ Panel 5 family panels run on the Qualcomm DragonWing processor with Android 14, a significant upgrade from previous generations. The panels include Z-Wave 800-series modules with Z-Wave Long Range support, Bluetooth 5.0 + LE for touchless disarming, and LTE + WIFI dual-path communication. The hardware design has been refined with improved power supply, tamper switch, and SmartMount backplate for easier installation.

One major change from the IQ Panel 4 is how legacy RF sensor support is handled. The IQ Panel 5 family uses PowerG as the built-in wireless protocol. Legacy RF frequency support for 319.5 MHz (Interlogix/GE/Qolsys), 345 MHz (Honeywell/2GIG), or 433 MHz (legacy DSC) sensors is added through optional daughter cards rather than being built into separate panel SKUs. This simplifies the product lineup while still allowing easy takeovers of existing sensor installations.

Each panel supports up to 128 PowerG security devices, up to 128 legacy RF sensors (with daughter card), up to 167 Z-Wave devices, up to 100 PowerG automation devices, up to 242 user codes, and up to 4 partitions.

Choosing the Right Panel

Choose the IQ Panel 5 if you want the complete flagship experience with all available features, including the built-in camera for disarm photos, glass break detection, Live View and Live Answer for video doorbell cameras, Photo Frame, and weather display.

Choose the IQ5 Hub if you want the full touchscreen experience at a more accessible price point. The IQ5 Hub uses the same software interface and delivers the same capabilities as the IQ Panel 5.

Choose the IQ5 NS if you plan to mount the panel out of sight and control your system entirely through the Alarm.com app or an IQ Remote secondary keypad. This panel is also perfect for high-end automation integration. The IQ5 NS does not have a touchscreen, camera, glass break detection, or weather display, but it offers the same powerful processor and connectivity options at a lower cost.

Questions?

If you have questions about which panel from the IQ5 family is right for your installation, or if you need help setting up your new system, the Alarm Grid support team is here to help. Contact us Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time at 888-818-7728, or email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You can also visit our site and take advantage of our live chat option.

Z-Wave has come a long way since its introduction in the early 2000s. From the original standard to Z-Wave Plus and Z-Wave Plus V2, each generation brings meaningful improvements to range, battery life, and performance. Now, Z-Wave 800-Series represents the most significant leap forward yet.

The Evolution of Z-Wave

To understand what makes the 800-Series special, it helps to look at how Z-Wave has evolved over the years.

The original Z-Wave protocol established the foundation for mesh networking in home automation, allowing devices to communicate with each other and extend the network's reach. Z-Wave Plus (500-Series) arrived around 2013 and brought improvements including 50% better range, 250% longer battery life, and faster processing speeds compared to the original standard.

Z-Wave Plus V2 (700-Series), released in 2018, pushed the boundaries further with additional range improvements, enhanced security through S2 encryption, and SmartStart functionality that simplified device pairing. The 700-Series became the go-to choice for premium smart home devices and earned a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

What Makes Z-Wave 800-Series Different

The Z-Wave 800-Series, built on Silicon Labs' latest chipset technology, takes everything that worked well in previous generations and improves upon it significantly. Here's what sets it apart:

Extended Range

The 800-Series delivers up to 1.5 miles of range in open air with Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) mode. While real-world performance in homes will vary based on walls, interference, and building materials, this represents a massive improvement over previous generations. For large homes, outbuildings, or properties with detached garages, this extended range can eliminate the need for additional repeaters.

Faster Communication

With improved RF performance and optimized protocols, 800-Series devices communicate more efficiently. Commands execute faster, and the mesh network responds more quickly to changes. This translates to snappier control when you're turning on lights, locking doors, or adjusting thermostats.

Better Battery Life

Battery-powered devices like door sensors, motion detectors, and smart locks benefit from the 800-Series' improved power efficiency. Manufacturers report battery life improvements that can extend the time between battery changes by months or even years in some applications.

Enhanced Security

Building on the S2 security framework introduced with Z-Wave Plus V2, the 800-Series includes hardware-level security features that make it even more resistant to tampering and unauthorized access. All Z-Wave 800 devices support S2 authentication out of the box, ensuring encrypted communication throughout your smart home network.

Backward Compatibility

One of Z-Wave's greatest strengths has always been backward compatibility, and the 800-Series continues this tradition. Your existing Z-Wave and Z-Wave Plus devices will work with 800-Series controllers and hubs. This means you can upgrade your system gradually without replacing every device at once.

Z-Wave Long Range Support

Perhaps the most exciting addition is native support for Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR). This new mode allows point-to-point communication over much greater distances than traditional mesh networking. While standard Z-Wave mesh mode remains available for dense installations, ZWLR opens new possibilities for properties where devices are spread across larger areas.

Security Panels That Support Advanced Z-Wave Features

If you're looking to build a smart home system around a modern security panel, several options from Alarm Grid support Z-Wave for home automation control. These panels integrate security monitoring with Z-Wave device management, allowing you to control locks, lights, thermostats, and other smart devices from a single interface.

IQ Panel 4

The IQ Panel 4 represents IQ's (formerly Qolsys) latest generation of touchscreen security panels. It features built-in Z-Wave support for home automation along with PowerG sensor compatibility for long-range wireless security. The panel's 7" HD touchscreen makes it easy to manage both security and smart home functions from one central location. The IQ Panel 4 must be on version 4.4.0+ to support Z-Wave Long Range.

The IQ Panel 4 is available in multiple configurations:

• IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/345 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/345 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/433 MHz
• IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/433 MHz
  IQ Panel 4 AT&T LTE with PowerG/319.5 MHz
  IQ Panel 4 Verizon LTE with PowerG/319.5 MHz

2GIG Edge

The 2GIG Edge is a sleek, modern security panel that combines a compact design with powerful features. It includes Z-Wave support for home automation devices and offers advanced capabilities like facial recognition for touchless disarming. In order to support Z-Wave Long Range, the panel must be on firmware version 3.1.3.011+.

Available versions include:

• 2GIG Edge AT&T LTE
• 2GIG Edge Verizon LTE

Honeywell Home ProSeries PROA7PLUS

The First Alert PROA7 and PROA7PLUS are professional-grade security panels with optional Z-Wave support. Out of the box, they support ProSeries encrypted wireless sensors. With the addition of a PROTAKEOVER module, they can also support many legacy wireless sensors, and when you install the PROWIFIZW module, the system adds WIFI connectivity and support for Z-Wave home automation devices. When paired with Total Connect 2.0, you can arm, disarm, and control compatible devices remotely through the app.

At this time, the PROWIFIZW does not take full advantage of everything Z-Wave 800-Series offers, including Z-Wave Long Range. Thanks to Z-Wave’s backward compatibility, 800-Series devices will still work, but they’ll behave more like 700-Series devices when used with this controller. You still get solid Z-Wave performance today, and if Resideo updates the platform in the future, these newer devices should be well-positioned to benefit.

Options include:

• First Alert PROA7PLUS
• First Alert PROA7
• PROLTE-A2 - AT&T LTE Communicator
• PROLTE-V2 - Verizon LTE Communicator
• PROTAKEOVER Module
• PROWIFIZW WIFI & Z-Wave Module

2GIG GC Touch

The 2GIG GC Touch is another excellent option that combines security and smart home control. With its 7" high-resolution display and Z-Wave gateway functionality, the GC Touch provides a comprehensive solution that includes home security, home automation, energy management, and emergency monitoring.

Available in:

• 2GIG GC Touch AT&T LTE
• 2GIG GC Touch Verizon LTE

Compatible Z-Wave Devices

When building out your Z-Wave network, you'll find a wide variety of compatible devices available. Popular categories include:

Smart Locks – Z-Wave deadbolts and lever locks from manufacturers like Yale, Schlage, and Kwikset allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely, create temporary access codes, and receive notifications when doors are locked or unlocked.

Smart Lighting – In-wall switches, dimmers, and plug-in modules let you control lighting throughout your home. Many users create scenes that turn on lights when the system disarms or turn off all lights when arming at night.

Thermostats – Z-Wave thermostats like the Honeywell T6 Pro integrate with your security system to provide energy savings. You can automatically adjust temperatures based on whether the system is armed or disarmed.

Garage Door Controllers – Z-Wave garage door controllers let you open, close, and monitor your garage door status from anywhere. Get alerts if the garage door is left open or automatically close it when arming your system.

Water Valves – Smart water valves can automatically shut off your main water supply if a leak is detected, helping prevent costly water damage. This is a perfect example of how automation, working in conjunction with an alarm system, can save you money and prevent messy cleanup.

Making the Switch to Z-Wave 800

If you're starting fresh with a new smart home installation, choosing Z-Wave 800-Series devices whenever possible makes sense. You'll get the best performance, longest battery life, and most advanced security features available.

For those with existing Z-Wave networks, there's no need to rush out and replace everything. Backward compatibility means your current devices will continue to work as you gradually add 800-Series products. Over time, as you replace older devices, your network will naturally evolve to take advantage of the latest technology.

When shopping for Z-Wave devices, look for the Z-Wave 800 or "800-Series" designation on product packaging and specifications. As more manufacturers release 800-Series products, the selection continues to grow across all device categories.

Getting Started

Whether you're building a new smart home from scratch or expanding an existing system, Z-Wave 800-Series technology provides a reliable, secure, and responsive foundation for home automation.

Ready to see what Z-Wave can do for your home? Browse our selection of Z-Wave compatible products and security systems that support home automation. If you’re not sure which panel or devices are right for your situation, our support team is happy to help.

You can call us at 888-818-7728 during our support hours of 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday – Friday, or send an email to support@alarmgrid.com.