How Do I Run the Input Voltage Test on the IQ5 NS System?

To run the Input Voltage Test on the IQ5 NS, open the IQ Installer app and navigate to System Tests, then Input Voltage Test. The panel measures and displays the real-time DC voltage it is receiving from its power supply. Because the IQ5 NS has no screen, this reading is shown in the app.

What the Input Voltage Test Is

The IQ5 NS (available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE) runs on a DC power supply that plugs into the wall, with a backup battery inside the panel. The Input Voltage Test measures, in real time, the DC voltage the panel is actually receiving at its power input. It is one of the System Tests built into the panel, alongside the WIFI, cellular, and daughter card tests, and it gives a direct reading rather than just an indicator light.

This reading is useful for confirming the panel is getting steady, correct power. A normal reading means the power supply and wiring are delivering proper voltage, while a low or unstable reading points to a problem with the transformer, the wiring run, or the power connection on your security system. It is the first thing to check when the panel reports a power or low-battery trouble that will not clear.

When to Use This Test

Because the IQ5 NS has no screen, its System Tests are reached through the IQ Installer app rather than on the panel. 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 first. For a quick day-to-day power check, the front Power LED tells you whether the panel is on AC or running on battery; reach for the Input Voltage Test when you want the actual voltage reading behind that.

Run the Input Voltage Test

1. Open the IQ Installer app. Open the IQ Installer app on your mobile device and make sure it is connected to your IQ5 NS.
   
   Open the IQ Installer app connected to your IQ5 NS.
2. Navigate to System Tests. In the app, go to the System Tests menu to open the list of diagnostic tests.
   
   Navigate to System Tests in the app.
3. Select Input Voltage Test. Select Input Voltage Test. The panel measures and displays the DC voltage it is receiving in real time. A reading in the expected range confirms the power supply is delivering proper voltage.
   
   The Input Voltage Test shows the real-time DC voltage reading.

Tips

After a power outage, give the panel time on wall power before judging the reading, since the battery draws current as it recharges. If the voltage reads low or unstable while plugged in, check that the power supply is fully seated and that the wiring run is not too long or too thin for the panel. Never disconnect the battery without following the proper power-down steps, since doing so can corrupt data or damage the panel.

Running the Input Voltage Test on the IQ5 NS confirms your panel is receiving steady, correct power. For help running the test or reading the result 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.