Can the Qolsys IQ Remote Perform Smart Scenes?

Yes, the Qolsys IQ Remote can perform smart scenes. For this to work, the main IQ Panel 2 System must be running Firmware Version 2.4.0 or higher, and it must be connected with Alarm.com for panel smart scene control. Any time a scene is performed, it will pass through Alarm.com first.

The IQ Remote is a wireless touchscreen keypad that will work with all versions of the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 and Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems, as long as the panel is running Firmware Version 2.1.0 or higher. It communicates with the main panel through a local WIFI network or through an Access Point (AP) that has been set up. The keypad allows for arming/disarming, as well as automation control.

A smart scene is a home automation function, in which one or more devices are controlled. Each smart scene can be adjusted so that each individual device responds exactly how you want. You might have a single smart scene that tells your front door to unlock, your thermostat to start cooling to 70 degrees, and your front house lights to turn on. Such a smart scene might be perfect for when you are coming home from work. But you can set these scenes based on your individual needs. Z-Wave devices are perfect for IQ2 smart scenes, as they easily pair with the system for use with Alarm.com.

Smart scenes can be performed automatically based on a schedule or with certain system events. When it comes to performing smart scenes from the IQ Panel 2 System or from the IQ Remote, we are referring to the act of performing smart scenes manually. In other words, you want to execute the scene at your own discretion. You can simply go over to your IQ Panel 2 System or your IQ Remote to perform the scene. These scenes can also be performed from Alarm.com using the website or mobile app.

Qolsys introduced panel scene control in Firmware Version 2.4.0 for the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 System. This feature allows users to perform Alarm.com Smart Scenes from both the main IQ Panel 2 and through the IQ Remote. For this to work, the main panel must be connected with Alarm.com for smart home automation control. Remember, any scene that is being performed will go through Alarm.com first. Also, keep in mind that any device included in the scene will need to paired with the IQ Panel 2 so that it is seen by Alarm.com.

When you perform an Alarm.com smart scene from your IQ Remote, the command doesn't go directly to the devices. It is ultimately Alarm.com that performs the scene. The IQ Remote tells the IQ Panel 2 System, and the system tells Alarm.com to perform the scene. Alarm.com then passes the command back to the system, which serves as the automation controller, and finally, the command is passed on to the individual devices.

To break it down, the command sequence is as follows: IQ Remote > IQ Panel 2 > Alarm.com > back to IQ Panel 2 > individual automation devices. All of this is important because if there is a break in the chain anywhere, then the smart scene will not be performed as desired. For example, if the panel is having trouble communicating with Alarm,com, or if the panel is unable to communicate with an individual automation device, then the scene will not be performed as intended.

In order to get started with IQ Remote Keypad scene control, you must first have the feature enabled for your panel. You will need a monitoring plan that includes access to Alarm.com for automation control. You must also have the Scene Support feature enabled for your main IQ Panel 2 System. This setting can be accessed by pressing the small grey bar at the top of the main system screen and choosing Settings > Advanced Settings > Installer Code (default 1111) > Installation > Installer Settings > scroll to Scenes Support. Make sure the box next to Scenes Support is Checked.

Once you apply the setting, you should see the scene control option on the IQ Remote Keypad. This button is in the lower-left corner of the main keypad screen. Clicking on the button will show all the available smart scenes that you have set up on Alarm.com. Please note that you may need to reboot the IQ Panel 2 in order to get the scene button to appear if you just enabled the option within the main system settings.