How Do I Run a Cellular or LTE Test on the IQ5 NS Panel?

To run a cellular LTE test on the IQ5 NS, open the IQ Installer app on your mobile device and connect to the panel. Navigate to Installation, then System Tests, and select Cellular Test. Press Start to test the cellular radio. The results display your signal strength and carrier information.

Before You Begin

The IQ5 NS (available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE) uses a built-in LTE cellular radio to communicate with Alarm.com and the central monitoring station. The cellular test verifies that this radio is connected and able to send and receive signals. Before running the test, the cellular radio must first be activated through Alarm.com during the initial account setup. If the radio has not been activated, the test will not return meaningful results.

Because the IQ5 NS does not have a built-in display, all system tests are managed through the IQ Installer app on your iOS or Android device. If you have not yet connected the IQ Installer app to your panel, see our guide on setting up the IQ5 NS with the IQ Installer app before proceeding.

Running a cellular test is recommended whenever you suspect the panel has lost its ability to communicate, after moving the panel to a new location, or as part of regular system maintenance. The test results show your carrier name, connection status, and cell signal strength. A strong cellular connection is critical for reliable alarm reporting, especially for users with a monitoring plan.

Running a Cellular Test

1. Open the IQ Installer app and connect to the IQ5 NS. Enter the Installer Code (1111 by default) to establish the connection. The app dashboard appears showing the panel status and configuration options.

2. Navigate to Installation, then System Tests, and select Cellular Test. The Cellular Test screen opens in the IQ Installer app showing a Start button. The cellular radio must be activated through Alarm.com before this test returns valid results.

3. Press Start to begin the cellular test. The IQ5 NS sends a test signal through its cellular radio to the Alarm.com server. The test runs for a few moments and then displays results including your carrier name, connection status, and cell signal strength. A successful test confirms the cellular path is working and the panel can communicate with the monitoring station.

Tips

If the cellular test fails, verify that the cellular radio has been activated on your Alarm.com account. The radio activates during the Setup Wizard when the panel first connects to Alarm.com. If the test passes but shows weak signal strength, consider relocating the panel to a spot with better cellular reception, or contact your security system provider to discuss options. A dual-path setup using both cellular and WIFI provides the most reliable communication. You can test the WIFI path separately using the Dual Path Test in the same System Tests menu. For panels with PowerG sensors and home automation devices, a strong cellular connection ensures remote commands from the Alarm.com app reach your system quickly and reliably.

Running a cellular test confirms your panel can communicate with the monitoring station and Alarm.com on the IQ5 NS. For help with cellular tests and signal strength or other configurations on your IQ5 NS, contact the Alarm Grid support team. We are here Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time. Email us at support@alarmgrid.com, call us at 888-818-7728, or visit our website and chat with a live support agent.