What is the Qolsys Hardwire 16-S?

The Qolsys Hardwire 16-S is a wired to wireless converter that allows hardwired sensors to be used with a 319.5 MHz wireless security system. The hardwired sensors will connect directly with the Hardwire 16-S module. The device will then send a 319.5 MHz signal to the panel on their behalf.

If a user has an older hardwired system, they may want to bring existing hardwired sensors with them when upgrading to a new wireless system. That is when a converter module like the Hardwire 16-S can come in handy. This will help the user save a large amount of money in not having to replace their old sensors. Once the setup is complete, the user will get to enjoy all the benefits of a new wireless system.

The Hardwire 16-S can be mounted in the previous location of the old alarm control panel for an easy installation. That way, all of the wiring will still be there so that it can be connected with the Hardwire 16-S module. Once it has been set up, the module will communicate with a compatible system at 319.5 MHz. The system will recognize all of the hardwired sensors as wireless devices, and they will use wireless system zones.

Since the Hardwire 16-S communicates at 319.5 MHz, the alarm control panel must have a wireless receiver that accepts this particular frequency. Some of the most popular alarm systems that accept the 319.5 MHz frequency include the wireless Interlogix Systems and the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. If the system operates at a different wireless frequency, the user will need a different module. For example, the Honeywell 5800C2W operates at 345 MHz for systems that use that frequency.

The Qolsys Hardwire 16-S was specifically designed with the IQ Panel 2 in mind, and it will utilize rolling code encryption when programmed with that system for added security. But if the module is programmed with a different 319.5 MHz wireless system than the IQ Panel 2, then it will communicate without encryption. This does not really effect the end user experience, but some users might want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their converter module is using some type encryption.

The Hardwire 16-S includes enough zone terminals to support up to 16 hardwired sensors. In order to use additional sensors, the user will need an additional converter. Users should also keep in mind that the module cannot be used with hardwired life-safety sensors, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors. The module is for security sensors only. For users with 8 or fewer sensors, the Qolsys Hardwire 8-S does the exact same thing as the Hardwire 16-S, but it only has support for up to 8 wired sensors. It is also important to add a backup battery so that the sensors remain connected in the event of a power outage. A good backup battery to use is the UltraTech 1240.