Qolsys Posts

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

In an email last week, Johnson Controls, the parent company of Qolsys, announced the discontinuation of both the Qolsys IQ WIFI and the Qolsys IQ WIFI 6. These purpose-built routers, accessible via Alarm.com, were meant to prevent security equipment disconnections due to end-user errors.

We first told you about the IQ WIFI 6 in October 2022. It offered an elegant solution for users with security systems. The IQ WIFI 6, designed to act as the router while IQ WIFI units functioned as Wi-Fi nodes, created a mesh network with a unique security partition accessible only by the alarm dealer.

This, combined with remote access through Alarm.com, prevented costly service calls when customers made changes to their network, then inadvertently neglected to update their security system components.

Unfortunately, it didn't catch on. End-users interested enough in their network to invest in a specialized router prioritized optimizing their network for gaming or streaming video, rather than ensuring reliable connectivity for their security systems and WIFI cameras.

If you own an IQ WIFI 6, rest assured it will continue to function as usual. Alarm.com has pledged ongoing support, allowing dealers to remotely access and troubleshoot internet connectivity for your system. The IQ WIFI is not accessible through Alarm.com, so with the end-of-sales notice, they will no longer offer live setup support for the IQ WIFI.

Alarm Grid has discontinued both the IQ WIFI and IQ WIFI 6 on our website. We do not maintain stock, and our distributor has very limited inventory available. To avoid accepting orders that we cannot fulfill, we have decided to discontinue both products immediately.

The discontinuation of the IQ WIFI and IQ WIFI 6 raises concerns about the future of these products. If you're an existing user, we'd love to hear about your experiences with these devices. Share your thoughts and any concerns you may have in the comments below. It's frustrating when a purchased product is discontinued by the manufacturer. Alarm Grid is here to help our customers in whatever way we can.

Beginning on October 8, 2024, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is mandatory for all new Alarm.com accounts. Existing accounts are being moved to the new standard, with 100% of accounts using 2FA by December 19, 2024. If you're an existing Alarm.com customer, you may have already been updated.

Two-Factor Authentication, also known as Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) works like this. You log into an app or a website with your customary username and password. You're then prompted for further authentication via a text message, email, or third-party authenticator app. During the initial 2FA setup, you can choose one or more of these authentication methods.

Via the path of your choice, you'll receive a code. You'll input the code at the prompt, and then you're logged into the app or website. For Alarm.com users, you will be prompted to make the browser or device a "Trusted Device". If you say yes to this prompt, then you may not be prompted for 2FA the next time you log in using that browser or device.

To quote The Dude, there are, "a lotta ins, a lotta outs, a lotta what-have-yous" here. For instance, if you trust your browser but clear your cache later, you'll need to go through 2FA again next time. If you choose "Skip" at the prompt about trusting the browser, then you will have to go through additional authentication every time you log in until you choose to trust the browser.

This may seem like a real hassle, but let me share a story about someone who skipped enabling 2FA because they thought it was too much trouble. A friend of mine did not secure their account with a large retailer. When offered the option to set up 2FA, they always skipped it.

Their account was hacked and the hacker set up 2FA. They entered a phone number to receive verification codes. My friend was eventually able to change the password for the account with the retailer's help. But because 2FA had been set up with a phone number inaccessible to them, my friend was unable to regain full access. The fraud department for the retailer was unable or unwilling to do anything, so my friend lost years of purchase history. Had they set up 2FA to begin with, this could not have happened.

Fortunately, the scenario I described above can't happen to Alarm.com customers. If you're an Alarm Grid customer and you need help with 2FA for one of your logins, contact us. We'll verify that it's you with either your password or the last four (4) digits of the card we have on fie for billing, then we'll help you reset your 2FA credentials.

After we Reset 2FA for the login through the Alarm.com Partner Portal, the user will be prompted to set up 2FA again the next time they log in. This might be necessary because the user's phone number changed, or the phone carrier changed, or because the user no longer has access to the email used to set up 2FA to begin with. If you're not an Alarm Grid customer, contact your alarm dealer for assistance with Two-Factor Authentication.

Alarm Grid technical support is available Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm EST at 888-818-7728 Option 2. If it's outside business hours you can send us an email at support@alarmgrid.com. For 2FA assistance, let us know and provide either your false alarm password, or the last four (4) digits of the credit or debit card we have on file for billing. Then, let us know which login you need help with, if your account has more than one. This will expedite our response.

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.

Alarm Grid offers the latest wireless keypads, compatible with IQ4 and IQ Pro panels. The Qolsys IQ Keypad-PG is a simple capacitive touch keypad, while the Qolsys IQ Keypad Prox-PG adds a prox tag reader for easy use. Both keypads offer PowerG's impressive range for reliable communication.

Below is the IQ Keypad Prox-PG. The bullseye symbol in the lower right denotes the proximity reader:

As wonderful as a big, beautiful touchscreen interface is, sometimes you just need to arm or disarm the system and don't want to walk to the panel to do it. Maybe you're entering or exiting through a seldom-used basement door or planning to hang out in the garage when you arrive home. A secondary arming and disarming station can come in handy, for a wide variety of reasons.

Enter the two (2) new PowerG keypads available from Qolsys. The Qolsys IQ Keypad-PG is a basic wireless keypad that allows you to disarm by entering a valid code through the number pad. It has icons for single-touch Night, Away, and Stay arming when secure arming is disabled. When secure arming is enabled, arm using any valid user code.

If you can arm through the touchscreen without entering a code, then Secure Arming is disabled. You can change this setting by tapping the gray menu bar at the top of the screen, above the date and time, then tapping Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 respectively, by default) > Installation > Security & Arming > Secure Arming. This feature is disabled by default. That means, by default, you can arm the system without entering a valid code.

When we talk about the IQ4 panels, we're talking about the IQ Panel 4, the Qolsys flagship, top-of-the-line, feature-rich touchscreen panel. Also included is the IQ4 Hub, another touchscreen panel with a slightly trimmed-down feature set. And finally, the IQ4 NS rounds out this panel lineup. The IQ4 NS is a budget-friendly option with nearly identical features as the IQ4 Hub, minus the touchscreen interface. All these panels support the IQ Keypad-PG and the IQ Keypad Prox-PG and prox tag arming/disarming. Just be sure the panel has the latest firmware.

IQ Keypad-PG

The IQ Keypad-PG is a stylish capacitive-touch numerical keypad. It has PowerG wireless transmitting capability and offers superior range, military-grade, 128-bit AES encryption, and bi-directional communication with the panel. Four (4) AA batteries are used to power the unit. Only Energizer AA 1.5 Volt Alkaline batteries should be used. The expected battery life is three (3) years. Each alarm system can support up to five (5) keypads.

IQ Keypad Prox-PG

The IQ Keypad Prox-PG has the same features and specifications as the IQ Keypad-PG, with one exception. It supports prox tags. If you're unfamiliar with prox tags, they're small, hand-held devices that allow you to easily arm and disarm the system by presenting the tag to the keypad in the designated space. When you present your valid tag to the keypad while the system is armed, it will toggle the system to a disarmed state. If you present your tag to the keypad when the system is disarmed, it will attempt to arm the system.

Prox tags come in packs of four (4). The included clip allows them to connect easily to a key ring:

If Force Arm is enabled when you present your prox tag to arm the system, any faulted zones will automatically be bypassed and then the system will arm. If Force Arm is disabled the system will refuse to arm until all zones are restored and the prox tag is presented again. Also, when you present a prox tag to the keypad while the system is disarmed, it will first attempt to arm Stay, then if you present the tag again, it will arm Away.

You can verify the Force Arm setting by tapping the gray menu bar at the top of the screen, above the time and date. Then tap Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 respectively, by default) > Installation > Security & Arming > Force Arm. This feature is enabled by default. That means, if you attempt to arm and any zones are open or faulted, they will automatically be bypassed so the system can arm.

Specifications:

• Models: IQ Keypad-PG, IQ Keypad Prox-PG (4 Prox Tags Included)
• Interface: Capacitive touch keypad (0-9, *, #, Arm Stay, Arm Away, Arm Night options)
• Available Frequency: PowerG 912 - 919 MHz
• Status Indicator: Status LEDs (Trouble, Arming, Status)
• Sounder: One (1) for key presses, chirps, and alarms.
• Tamper: Yes, Wall and Enclosure Tamper.
• Power Source: 4 x AA – Use only Energizer AA 1.5V Alkaline Batteries.
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 6.1” x 4.6” x .91” (155mm x 117mm x 23mm)
• Mounting Options: Back plate, wall mount only.
• UL/cUL/ULC Certification: UL/cUL Residential Fire and Burglary and UL/ULC Commercial Burglary Alarm Control Unit. Compliant with standards: UL985, UL1023, UL2610, ULC-S545, ULC-S304.
• FCC/IC Certification: FCC ID: 2AAJXQS-IQKP IC: 11205A-QSIQKP.
• Operating Temperature: 14°F - 131°F (-10°C - +55°C) With up to 93% relative humidity, indoor, dry, climate-controlled use only (*)

*UL has only verified operation in 32°F - 120.2°F (0°C - +49°C) and 93% Relative Humidity.

Alarm.com now offers a feature called Alarm Mode. When an alarm occurs on an Alarm.com system the user can access a special Alarm Mode card from the app dashboard. With all relevant alarm-related information grouped together, a user can quickly assess the situation and respond accordingly.

Alarm.com is very proactive in its efforts to innovate and diversify its product offerings. In addition to adding exciting new features that utilize existing hardware and software capabilities, Alarm.com constantly seeks ways to increase user engagement without raising the incidents of unwanted alarm dispatch.

Toward that end, they recently rolled out Alarm Mode. Beginning with version 5.4.1 of the Alarm.com customer app, nearly any system alarm occurring on an Alarm.com panel will trigger Alarm Mode. This feature is a segment or card located in the customer dashboard. When you log into the app and tap on Alarm Mode, you can view all activity related to the alarm.

This can include video clips, a link to live video, video doorbell camera information, and door lock status. What you see will depend on which hardware and features you have, and what's happening at, and just before, the time of the alarm. With all the relevant information in one easy to access location, you can make an informed assessment and either cancel the alarm, or verify that dispatch is necessary.

A full guide to using this feature is available here. There are exceptions to which alarms initiate Alarm Mode so be sure to check out the guide. If you happen to have the In-App Cancel/Verify feature enabled on your account, Alarm Mode makes that feature even easier to use. Once you open the Alarm Mode card within the customer app you'll see the buttons to Cancel or Verify the alarm. You still have two (2) minutes from the time the alarm is reported to choose either option.

When you tap Cancel (holding for three (3) seconds is not required), a disarm is sent to the system and an alarm cancel message is sent to the monitoring station. Because the time to process every alarm varies, it is still possible that you will receive a call from the monitoring station, so be ready to provide your verbal passcode to the operator.

When you tap Verify Alarm the system will continue to display and sound the alarm locally and the monitoring station will receive a signal letting them know that a dispatch is requested. They can then contact the authorities to dispatch and they will likely still call you to gather additional information to provide to the responding authorities.

If two (2) minutes pass and you don't choose either Cancel or Verify, the option will go away and will be replaced with a "Disarm to Clear" button. For users who don't have the In-App Cancel/Verify feature enabled, this button will show up immediately in Alarm Mode and will remain until the alarm is cleared. Tapping this button will send a disarm command to the system to silence the alarm. Once the alarm is cleared, the Alarm Mode card will disappear and the app will revert to the standard dashboard.

What do you think of Alarm Mode? Do you agree that Alarm.com works hard to add value to their product and service offerings? Leave a comment below to start a discussion! We'd love to hear your thoughts.

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.

ISC West is the premiere trade show in our industry. It happens in Las Vegas each spring and all the manufacturers of security products show up. Of course, we're interested in Qolsys, Alarm.com, Resideo, AlarmNet, and 2GIG, but there are many more! They'll display all their best new gadgets.

This year Alarm.com showed up to ISC West loaded for bear! They rolled out several new offerings in the form of both products and services. Many, but not all of these devices were targeting commercial applications. We'll list the big new items below:

Alarm.com

Outdoor Floodlight Camera and VizBlinder:

The Outdoor Floodlight Camera is a new product. As the name implies, it mounts outside in darker areas where an intruder may attempt to enter or gain entry to an area where they shouldn't be.

The new Outdoor Floodlight Camera features 4MP video and Two-Way voice options. It has 3,000 Lumen floodlights, allowing you to customize your lighting options. It's suitable for homes and small- to medium-sized businesses. Additionally, because it uses video analytics, the floodlight can automatically respond to threats when unwanted visitors or vehicles are detected. It can activate red and blue warning lights and also play warning sounds from a powerful siren.

VizBlinder will incorporate new hardware as part of the new feature. It allows the central station operator to fill a room with a vision obscuring white haze. This is done after the operator has accessed the available Alarm.com cameras and determined that an intruder is present. If cameras that support Two-Way audio are in use the operator will be able to engage with the intruder prior to activating VizBlinder. If I were an intruder, and the room suddenly began filling with an unknown white fog, I would skedaddle!

Remote Video Monitoring Console:

The Remote Video Monitoring Console (RVM) is a system that allows central station operators to offer "round-the-clock concierge video monitoring and proactive defense services to customers with Alarm.com Video Analytics cameras." Operators will receive immediate alerts when a vehicle or person enters an area that is restricted. Through the RVM, the operator can review the situation and, if necessary, intervene through the RVM using hardware located on the protected site. This includes using the two-way voice feature of some cameras to talk to the unexpected visitor.

Because both the cameras and the RVM Console are provided by Alarm.com, this is truly a seamless end-to-end integration. The fact that Alarm.com makes the cameras, video analytics, and the central station hardware, there is no special interface equipment required. The Remote Video Monitoring Console is what allows the central station operator to deploy VizBlinder, which we outlined in the previous section.

Sunflower Labs Autonomous Security Drone:

Alarm.com has partnered with Sunflower Labs to offer an autonomous outdoor security drone. Sensor activity on the alarm system and Video Analytics trigger the drone to deploy and investigate suspicious events. It can cover 10 acres in 90 seconds, making it perfect for larger commercial and residential properties. The drone provides "eyes in the sky" for property owners and central station operators alike, and puts intruders on notice that they're being watched. Presumably, central station operators can also deploy the drone based on information they glean through the RVM Console.

Shooter Detection Systems

Adding to their commercial offerings, Alarm.com introduces the Shooter Detection Systems (SDS) Indoor Gunshot Sensor. In the event of an active shooter situation, this system allows for a faster and more accurate response while also providing valuable information to both police and medical first responders.

The SDS sensor uses dual-authentication technology identifying both the acoustic and the infrared signature of a gunshot. It has an accuracy rating of less than 1 false alert per 5 million hours of use. Gunshot detection signals are automatically forwarded to Alarm.com and the appropriate central station is alerted within seconds. With the information provided by the system, the operator can inform the authorities exactly where the incident was reported.

Resideo

First Alert® VX5 Indoor Camera

Adding to their recently released First Alert® VX1 video doorbell and First Alert® VX3 outdoor camera Resideo introduces the new First Alert® VX5 Indoor Camera at ISC West. Like most of these products, the VX5 is not yet available, so information about it is scarce, but we know it will offer these features:

Advanced Event Detection
• Privacy Mode
• Integration with ProSeries Security Panel
• Compact, Versatile Design
• 2MP resolution and day and night vision with WDR
• Two-way audio
• Easy to Use App – TC 2.0 - for full control of the connected home or office

2GIG

E+ Extended Range Sensors

2GIG brings their new E+ Extended Range 900 MHz sensors to ISC West. This is an exciting addition to their portfolio. This product line will capitalize on the extended range capabilities of the 900 MHz wireless frequency. The E+ lineup will offer up to 1.2 Mile (2km) transmitting range. These sensors are bi-directional and fully encrypted with extended battery life as compared to regular 2GIG 345 MHz sensors. As with most products rolled out at ISC West, these are not yet available, but a data sheet for each is linked below. We will link to the products once they become available for sale.

Available sensors, so far:

• 2GIG GB1E-900 - Glassbreak Detector
• 2GIG DW10E-900 - Door/Window Sensor
• 2GIG PIR1E-900 - PIR Motion Detector
• 2GIG DW30E-900 - Outdoor Door/Window Sensor
• 2GIG SMKT-900 - Smoke Detector

Qolsys

We saved Qolsys for last because they didn't really roll anything out especially for ISC West. Qolsys finished 2023 strong with the release of their PowerG Everywhere 900 MHz automation devices and the Qolsys IQ4 NS no screen security panel.

PowerG Everywhere combines the excellent transmitting range we've come to expect from PowerG with the battery-savings and simplicity of use we get from Z-Wave. The resulting product is a battery sipping tour de force. So far, they offer the following PowerG Automation products which are compatible with the IQ Panel 4, IQ4 Hub, and IQ4 NS running firmware 4.4.0+ and the IQ Pro with firmware 4.3.0n+:

• IQ Lock-PG
• IQ Dimmer-PG
• IQ Switch-PG
• IQ Socket-PG
• IQ Smart Plug-PG
• IQ Outdoor Plug-PG

The IQ4 NS is a budget-friendly panel based on the IQ Panel 4. It's nearly identical to the IQ4 Hub, in fact, with one exception. It does not include a touchscreen interface. Instead, programming is performed using the IQ Installer App, available as a free download from the iOS and Google app stores. You can read all about the IQ4 NS and PowerG Everywhere in our blog posts here and here respectively.

Intruducing the Qolsys IQ Heat 135 / 200. It offers a selection for the fixed alarm temperature limit of either 135°F or 200°F (57.2°C or 93.3°C). In addition, it has a rate-of-rise feature that activates an alarm if the temperature rises more than 12°F - 15°F (6.7°C - 8.3°C) per minute.

Qolsys is streamlining their products by combining the features of the Qolsys IQ Heat 135, and the Qolsys IQ Heat 200 into a single device. Using an internal jumper, the user can choose a fixed temperature alarm threshold of either 135°F (57.2°C) or 200°F (93.3°C). Based on this jumper setting, a temperature above the selected threshold will cause an alarm.

In addition to the fixed-temperature alarm threshold, the IQ Heat 135 / 200 also has a built-in rate-of-rise detector. If the ambient temperature rises from between 12°F - 15°F (6.7°C - 8.3°C) per minute, an alarm will occur.

Once either alarm threshold has been met, the IQ Heat 135 / 200 will use its transmitter to send an alarm signal to a compatible system. This includes any of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, IQ Panel 2 Plus, IQ Panel 4, IQ4 Hub, IQ Hub, and IQ4 NS panels with a 319.5 MHz receiver built in. It can likely also be used with Interlogix/GE panels that support this frequency, such as the Simon panels, though we have not tested to confirm this.

The jumper used to set the fixed-temperature threshold has three (3) pins. If the jumper is across the LOW and center pin, the detector is set for 135°F (57.2°C) if the jumper is across the center and HI pin the detector is set for 200°F (93.3°C). If the jumper is removed completely, or lost, then the detector defaults to the high, or 200°F (93.3°C) setting.

The Qolsys IQ Heat 135 / 200 uses a single Panasonic CR123A 3V battery, and the expected battery life is about ten (10) years. Besides how often the detector transmits a signal, the biggest factor in battery life is ambient temperature. When the detector is mounted to the ceiling, the ceiling temperature should never exceed 100°F (37.8°C) under normal conditions. Just know that extreme temperatures, high or low, will likely affect the life expectancy of the battery.

The detector is fully supervised for RF check-in and transmits a signal to the system every 62 - 68 minutes. If the alarm panel doesn't hear from the sensor for a specified period, it will indicate a trouble condition on the zone associated with the IQ Heat. In addition to RF supervision, the detector is also supervised for tamper. If the heat detector is pulled away from the wall or ceiling, it will generate a tamper transmission to the alarm panel.

Specifications

• Device Type: Wireless Heat Detector
• Operating Frequency: 319.5MHz (crystal-controlled)
• Supervision Interval: 62 - 68 minutes
• Fixed Temperature Detection: Selectable 135°F (57°C) or 200°F (93°C)
• Rate of Rise Rating: 12° to 15°F (6.7° to 8.3°C) per minute
• Mounting Location: Ceiling or Wall
• Ceiling Mounting Specification: At least 4 in. (10cm) away from any walls
• Wall Mounting Height: Top of detector within 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) of the ceiling
• Standby Current: Less than 0.9μA
• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 150°F (0 to 65.6°C)
• Operating Relative Humidity: 0 to 95% noncondensing
• Batteries: One (1) Panasonic CR123A 3V (included)
• Expected Battery Life: 10 years (depends on how often the detector transmits signals, but is more dependent on the temperature of the installation environment. Warmer temps (within range) = longer life)
• Dimensions: 2.29" Diameter x 1.28" High (58.25mm Diameter x 32.4m High
• UL Max Ambient Ceiling Temp: 100°F/150°F (37.8°C/65.6°C)
• Maximum UL Spacing: 50ft (15.2M) x 50ft (15.2M)
• Agency Listings: UL 521 Heat Detectors for Fire Protective Signaling Systems, UL985 Household Fire Warning System Units, CAN/ULC-S530 Heat Actuated Fire Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems, CSFM Category 7270 - FCC: 15.109 Class B, 15.231, Industry Canada: ICES-003, RSS-210

Update 09/18/23: Qolsys has released this firmware as of today. Alarm.com, however, has not yet made it available for dealers to perform remote OTA updates. They usually lag behind Qolsys by a few days, as they perform their own testing. Instructions for updating using a patch tag can be found here. The full Qolsys TSB can be found here.

Original Blog Post:

We've been hearing about it for a while, and Firmware 4.4.0 will be available any day now. In this post, we'll go through some of the big additions, fixes, and improvements that you can expect to see in this release. From support for PowerG automation devices to the addition of Night arming.

This is one of the most ambitious updates for Qolsys that we've seen. There are a lot of new features in this update. There are also some important fixes and improvements included. In this post, we'll go through what we believe are some of the more important changes coming up in Firmware 4.4.0.

New Features:

• Support for All New PowerG Automation Devices:
  • IQ Lock-PG
  • IQ Dimmer-PG
  • IQ Switch-PG
  • IQ Smart Socket-PG
  • IQ Smart Plug-PG
  • IQ Outdoor Plug-PG
• Added a new Automation Icon within the Installation > Devices Menu. This icon is where you will now go to add everything except Z-Wave Automation devices. However, from within this screen, you can reach Z-Wave Automation (if you navigate here in error). In the future, we expect all Automation will be programmed from within this screen.
• Added "Night Arming" mode. The panel can now be armed in "Away", "Stay", or "Night".
• Created a new PIN code setting for users of the IQ WIFI 6. This will restrict access to the profiles and network map settings of the router.
• Added support for Aeotec Indoor Siren 6.
• Added Sensor Group 11 (Day Zone) and Group 21 (Night Motion).
• Added Sensor Groups 61 (Fixed Intrusion Panic) & 62 (Fixed Silent Panic). With these settings, hardwired, latching panics can now send restore signals when they are physically restored.
• Allows exterior PowerG motions to be programmed as Door/Window sensors to expand the Sensor Group options when programming.
• Added the option to display ambient temperature on the IQ Panel 4 and IQ4 Hub screen when used with PowerG and PowerG Plus devices that support reporting ambient temperature (listed below).
  
  
  • PG9312
  • PG9309
  • PG9200AX
  • PG9350SL
  • PG9914
  • PG9862
  • PG9872
  • PG9984P
  • PG9922
  • PG9936
  • PG9933
  • PG9905
  • PGP9945E
  • PGP9922
  • PGP9920
• PowerG Smoke Detectors can now sound different cadences for Intrusion, Fire, and CO alarms when the "PowerG Smoke Detector Siren" option is used for additional sounders.

Before going on to Fixes and Improvements, I wanted to pause for a moment and expand a bit on a couple of the things listed above. With the new Sensor Group 11 (Day Zone) here is the description of operation for that zone type: Intended for a Door or Window zone that triggers an alarm instantly if the system is armed (same as Group 13). When the panel is disarmed, the zone will annunciate Opens AND Closes, and will continue to notify until the Dismiss button is pressed on the panel screen.

When it comes to Night Arming, an understanding of the Groups associated with motion detectors is essential. Below is an explanation of how each Sensor Group operates. All of these Groups are supervised.

• Group 17, Away-Instant Motion: Active only when armed to "Night" or "Away". Trips instantly when motion is detected. Does not trip if an E/E zone is tripped first.
• Group 15, Stay-Instant Motion: Active in "Stay," "Night," and "Away". Trips Instantly when motion is detected. Does not trip if an E/E zone is tripped first.
• Group 35, Stay-Delay Motion: Active in "Stay," "Night," and "Away" modes. Triggers an Entry Delay if motion is faulted. Does not trip if an E/E zone is tripped first.
• Group 20, Away-Delay Motion: Active when armed to "Night" and "Away". Triggers an Entry Delay if triggered first. Does not trip if an E/E zone is triggered first.
• Group 21, Night Motion (New): Active only when armed to "Away" and trips instantly when motion is detected by this sensor first. Does not trip if an E/E zone is tripped first.
• Group 25, Safety Motion: This sensor does not report or trigger an alarm. This is a "Chime-Only" sensor when "Activity Monitoring" is active, regardless of panel armed status. Used for medicine cabinets, storage, activity tracking, etc.

Panel Fixes and Improvements:

• Changed the Z-Wave naming convention for Settings related to Automation.
• Added support for Z-Wave Weiser/Kwikset Lock supervision requests.
• Made improvements to text size and movement in Photo Frame Screensaver.
• Enhanced the downloading of images and videos from the IQ Panel to a mobile device.
• Added a 30-second arming delay for the IQ Panel 4's built-in glass break detector.
• Fixed an issue with pairing the ADC S2000-T Temp Sensor to the panel.

IQ Remote PowerG Fixes and Improvements:

• Added the ability for the IQ Remote PowerG to automatically power back on after an extended power failure/battery drain, once primary power is restored.
• Corrected an issue where "Nighttime Mode" was not working properly on the IQ Remote PowerG.
• Changed the functionality of the Power Button on the IQ Remote PowerG. Power Down/Reboot now requires a 10-second button press.
• Added support for Thermostats and Garage Door Control to the IQ Remote PowerG.
• Added "Weather Clock" to the IQ Remote PowerG Frame Options.
• Weather to the IQ Remote PowerG now functions when paired in both PowerG and WIFI modes.
• Added support to IQ Remote PowerG for "Installer Test Mode" where the siren is temporarily silenced during testing.
• Added support to the IQ Remote PowerG for Doorbell Notification pop-up and chime, when paired over both PowerG and WIFI.
• IQ Remote PowerG enrolled over PowerG will now automatically upgrade upon first enrollment, rather than waiting 24 hours.
• General communication improvements (Sync/Delay).

Update Instructions:

This firmware is now available, so you can perform the update. Your panel must be on Firmware Version 4.3.0+ before upgrading to 4.4.0. To check your firmware version, tap the gray bar at the top of the panel's home screen, then press Settings > Advanced Settings > Enter Installer or Dealer Code (1111 or 2222 respectively) then tap About > Software.

If your panel is on Firmware Version 4.0.0, 4.0.1, or 4.1.0, you must first update to 4.1.1.

From there, you can update to 4.2.0 or 4.2.1. Then you can update to 4.3.0 and finally to 4.4.0. This is very important! Failure to follow the proper update steps could cause your panel to become unresponsive.

Now that 4.4.0 has been released you can follow the steps below to update from 4.3.0 to 4.4.0:

1. Swipe down from the top of the panel screen and tap "Settings."
2. In "Settings" tap "Advanced Settings."
3. Enter Installer or Dealer Code (default is 1111 or 2222 respectively.)
4. Tap "Upgrade Software."
5. Tap "Patchtag" then enter iqpanel4.4.0 and then tap "Ok."
6. Tap "Upgrade Using Network," making sure the panel is connected to WIFI. Without a WIFI connection, the upgrade will not go through.

The patch will now be downloaded and then installed. It is important not to touch the panel screen during this process. You'll see a progress bar while the download is in progress, then the panel will reboot. This is normal. Once the panel boots up to the usual security screen, the upgrade is complete. The update usually takes approximately five (5) minutes to complete.

If you prefer, the update can eventually be pushed by your alarm dealer through the Alarm.com dealer portal. If your panel is on an older version, they should also be able to send any prerequisite updates to your panel prior to sending 4.4.0. Just be sure the panel has a connection to WIFI as even updates that are sent through Alarm.com require a WIFI connection at the panel.