How Do I Upgrade a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus to Use LTE?

You do not need to upgrade a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus to use LTE. All versions of the IQ Panel 2 Plus come with a built-in LTE communicator for connecting with Alarm.com. As such, no upgrade is needed. You just need to activate the communicator. This also applies to the original IQ Panel 2.

There has been a major push in the security industry to get every panel using cellular communication. Older cellulat networks like 3G and CDMA are going to be shut down in the coming years, and many panels need to be upgraded to LTE to remain active. Upgrading to LTE will provide faster and more reliable connectivity for the system, which will help ensure better performance overall. And since cellular service providers have promised to keep their LTE networks active and supported well into the very distant future, LTE represents a true long-term solution for any security system.

Fortunately, if you have a Qolsys IQ Panel 2 or IQ Panel 2 Plus System, then you do not need to worry about upgrading to LTE. Your system already has a built-in LTE communicator that you can activate for monitoring service. You will need to sign-up for a monitoring plan that includes cellular connectivity. Alarm Grid customers can choose between a Gold or Platinum Plan (Self or Full) or our Cellular-Only Plan. If you have any additional questions about our monitoring plans, then please email us at support@alarmgrid.com. We operate support hours from 9am to 8pm ET M-F.

When purchasing your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System, one thing you will need to decide is whether you want the AT&T LTE version or the Verizon LTE version. You should base this decision on which service tends to work more reliably in the area where the system will be used. You will not be able to swap out the communicator for your system later, so make sure to check network coverage maps before making your decision. Remember, the service provider you use will have no impact on your monitoring expenses, and it has nothing to do with your cellular service provider for your phone. For example, you can have an AT&T Phone and a security system that uses Verizon, or vice-versa.

If your monitoring plan includes access to Alarm.com, then you will also be able to control your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus System remotely through that platform. Alarm.com allows you to arm/disarm your system, check its current status, control programmed smart home automation devices, and so much more. The platform can be accessed using a web browser or remotely using the Alarm.com Mobile App on iOS and Android devices. We include Alarm.com access on all our Gold and Platinum Level monitoring plans.

Although you do not need to add or replace a communicator for the IQ Panel 2 Plus to get it monitored, you must still activate the system. To do that, complete the following steps:

1. Choose a monitoring plan. Start by finding the monitoring plan that you want to use with your Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus. Alarm Grid is a great place to start your search. Our most popular monitoring plan for the IQ Panel 2 Plus is our Gold Plan. If you are also wanting to use Alarm.com Security Cameras with your system, them you should get our Platinum Plan. If you just want to use your IQ Panel 2 Plus for central station monitoring service with no remote automation features and no extra frills, then you might consider our Cell-Only Plan. Remember that all of our monitoring plans are no-contract, with no added fees.

2. Activate the system. Work with your monitoring company to get the system activated. They will likely ask for the IMEI number for the system's internal communicator. This number can be found within the system's menus, and your monitoring company should be able to help you locate it if needed. On average, an IQ Panel 2 System can be activated in about 30 minutes. But this length of time can vary between different users depending upon their needs.

3. Test cellular signals. You will want to ask your alarm monitoring company to check your cellular signals and make sure that they are strong enough. If you find that your system has weak cellular signals, then you might consider adding a cellular antenna or a cellular amplifier.