Overview
The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 is an all-in-one touchscreen security hub with built-in PowerG radio, Z-Wave Plus automation, Wi-Fi/cellular paths to Alarm.com, and a modern Android-based user interface.
The panel is the brain of the intrusion system: it supervises wired and wireless zones, drives bell/siren outputs, manages automation on supported models, and reports to Alarm.com when a compatible communicator is installed. Installers program zones, user codes, and dialer options with installer menu / pairing wizard (varies by IQ Panel 4, 5, Hub); end users arm/disarm from IQ Remote, keyfobs, or Alarm.com app.
At a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Role | All-in-one alarm panel + automation hub |
| Wireless | PowerG encrypted 2-way sensors (S-Line) |
| Legacy RF | Optional IQ Card 319/345 for legacy sensors |
| Automation | Z-Wave Plus devices |
| Monitoring | Alarm.com interactive + central station |
| Power | AC with internal backup battery |
What This Panel Does Well
Coordinates intrusion zones, automation, user codes, and central station reporting when cell and monitoring are configured.
Before You Service or Replace One
- Exact panel model — IQ Panel 4 vs IQ5 vs IQ Pro vs IQ Hub — firmware and modules differ.
- Encryption — PowerG vs legacy card vs hardwire module sensors in the field.
- Cell module SKU — Built-in cellular vs Wi-Fi path per panel SKU and Alarm.com plan.
- Installer code — required for zone changes; document before service.
- Alarm.com dealer — account status, plan, and remote programming access.
Official Sources
Use official Qolsys install PDFs and install guides for exact wiring, enrollment, and firmware — specifications vary by SKU and region.
Troubleshooting
Quick diagnostic flow
- Confirm exact model/SKU on label matches official install guide.
- Clear panel AC and cell troubles before diagnosing wireless devices.
- Read zone trouble — tamper and low battery before "missing."
- Verify PowerG vs IQ Card 319/345 vs hardwire sensor matches panel hardware.
- For cell modules: ICCID, antenna, RSSI, and dealer platform match.
- Power-cycle panel only per dealer policy — document user codes first.
Symptom-based fixes
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Zone missing | Range or battery | Replace battery; add IQ Card or panel radio placement |
| Encryption trouble | Wrong sensor series | Use PowerG on IQ Panel or wired via Hardwire 16-F |
| Cell fail persists | SKU or activation | Correct LTE module; dealer activates Alarm.com |
| Z-Wave won't include | Prior hub pairing | Exclude from old controller; include near panel |
| Takeover false alarms | Wired loop fault | Check EOL wiring; verify burglary-only zones |
| Cannot arm | Open zone or trouble | Status screen — secure or bypass per policy |
PowerG / Alarm.com comms trouble
- Run cellular test from installer menu after module install.
- Verify Alarm.com account matches module SKU and region.
- Check antenna cable and ANT5XL placement if RSSI is marginal.
- After 3G sunset areas, confirm LTE module is approved for carrier.
Testing checklist
| Test | How | Pass criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Walk test | Installer walk test mode | Each sensor reports at panel |
| Arm Away | Keypad or Alarm.com | Exit delay; interior sensors active |
| Entry delay | Open entry door | Delay before alarm |
| Cell test | Installer comm test | Success; Alarm.com shows online |
| AC loss | Disconnect panel AC briefly | Battery support; trouble reports |
| Z-Wave device | Toggle from panel/Alarm.com | Device responds |
After replacement
Delete old zone, enroll new hardware, update zone name, run walk test, and notify monitoring dealer if central station records zone numbers.
Source: IQ Panel 4 installation manual and user guide; Qolsys official documentation.