Can I Pair a Qolsys IQ Remote to a Qolsys IQ Panel?

No, you cannot pair a Qolsys IQ Remote to a Qolsys IQ Panel. The Qolsys IQ Remote is only for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System, and it will not work with the original IQ Panel. Qolsys produced a separate wireless touchscreen keypad called the IQ2 that was designed for the original IQ Panel.

Many alarm system users with larger properties want external keypads so that they can operate their systems from multiple on-site locations. For example, a user might place the main system by their front door and a keypad by their back door so that they can control their system from both locations. For the Qolsys IQ Panel, the keypad is called the IQ2. This device communicates with the Qolsys IQ Panel through a WIFI connection. The keypad allows for arming, disarming, checking status and performing automation functions. System programming still needs to be completed from the main panel. Alarm Grid does not currently sell the IQ2 Keypad, but a user can still pair it with their IQ Panel System if they can obtain it from somewhere else.

What's interesting is that the IQ Remote for the IQ Panel 2 looks almost identical to the IQ2 Keypad for the original IQ Panel. As a result, many users mistakenly believe that the IQ Remote will work with the original IQ Panel. But that is not the case, as the IQ Remote and the IQ2 Keypad contain completely different software. The IQ Remote also pairs with a WIFI connection, making it compatible with the standard IQ Panel 2 and all versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus. Keep in mind that a firmware update may be needed before the IQ Remote can be paired.

Also remember that there are other ways to control the Qolsys IQ Panel than using a keypad or the system itself. A user can use a key fob to wirelessly arm and disarm. If you have an IQ Panel, then you will want to make sure your key fob operates at 319.5 MHz. You can also control your IQ Panel from Alarm.com. This service can be accessed from a web browser or by using the Alarm.com Mobile App on Android and iOS devices. To use this service as an Alarm Grid customer, you will need an alarm monitoring plan of level Gold or higher. The original Qolsys IQ Panel already comes equipped with a built-in cellular radio for communicating with Alarm.com.