How Do I Test the 5808W3 on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus?

You can test the 5808W3 on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus using one of two methods. The first is to activate the test button for the 5808W3. The other is to manually test the 5808W3 sensor using canned smoke and a hair dryer. You must place your system on test mode before performing any testing.

As a fire-safety sensor, you should test the Honeywell 5808W3 for proper operation at least twice per year. There are two types of tests that you will want to perform. The first is a transmission path test using the device's test button. The second is a functional test performed by actually activating the sensor. If the sensor fails either test, then you will need to perform maintenance or replace the device.

Obviously, you should have the Honeywell 5808W3 successfully enrolled with the IQ Panel 2 Plus System before attempting to perform any test. Remember that the 5808W3 will only work with the legacy 345 MHz version of the system. If you are having trouble enrolling the Honeywell 5808W3 with the IQ Panel 2 Plus, then you should consult this helpful FAQ.

You will want to place your system on test mode before performing any device testing. This is true whether you are performing a transmission path test or a manual test. Failure to place your system on test mode could result in a costly and inconvenient false alarm. You can place your system on test mode by contacting your alarm monitoring company or the central monitoring station directly. Alarm Grid monitored customers can also activate their own test mode using the MyAlarms.com feature.

The transmission path test will ensure that the sensor is communicating with the panel properly and that its 85 dB sounder and LED lights are all working properly. To complete the transmission path test, complete the following steps:

1. Enter test mode. Put your system on test mode by contacting your alarm monitoring company or the central station directly. They will put your system on a temporary test mode so that you have an opportunity to test your sensor. If you want to extend the test or get taken off of test mode early, you will need to contact them again. Alarm Grid customers can use MyAlarms.com feature to activate their own system test mode.

2. Press the test switch. Locate the test switch on the front of the device. You will need a small, thin object to press and hold the test switch. A toothpick, thumbtack or small screwdriver should work fine. Press and hold the test switch down for at least five seconds to activate it.

3. Confirm the test. The sensor should activate and the system should go into alarm. This confirms a successful RF transmission. You can release the button and clear the alarm at the panel using the system's Master Code.

If you are performing a functional test, complete the following steps:

1. Enter test mode. Contact your alarm monitoring company or the central monitoring station directly. Let the operator know that you are testing your system. Your alarm system will be placed on a temporary test mode so that you can test your sensors. If you are monitored with Alarm Grid, you can use MyAlarms.com to activate your own test mode.

2. Test for smoke. Use canned smoke and direct the vapors into the smoke detector vents. Be careful not to inhale the canned smoke. It is noxious, and it may also be highly flammable! The sensor should activate accordingly and cause a fire alarm on your system. Clear the alarm using your Master Code. The sensor will continue to sound until its detection chamber is free of smoke.

3. Test for heat. The 5808W3 activates upon sensing a temperature of 135°F or higher. You can usually trigger the device's heat sensor using a conventional hairdryer. Run the hairdryer on its maximum setting, and hold it about one-foot away from the 5808W3. Point it toward the thermistor (the larger round hole opposite the test button). The sensor should detect the high heat and cause a system fire alarm. As soon as the alarm occurs, turn off the hairdryer. You can clear the alarm at your panel by providing the system's Master Code.