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.
Installation Notes
Follow IQ Panel 4 installation manual and user guide and the official resource links in this product folder for mounting, wiring, and enrollment.
Pre-install checklist
- Confirm panel model (IQ Panel 4/5/Pro/Hub) and encryption requirements.
- Verify dealer cell account and module SKU before cell install.
- Document installer code and existing zone map for takeover jobs.
- Plan antenna routing (ANT5XL) when panel location has poor cell RSSI.
- Have listed batteries and tools for sensor mounts before enrollment.
Typical install sequence
- Mount and power panel; apply firmware updates per dealer bulletin.
- Install cell module and run communication test / Alarm.com activation.
- Enroll wireless sensors via installer Learn mode; label zones.
- Include Z-Wave devices after excluding from any prior hub.
- Install IQ Card for legacy sensors or optimize PowerG placement before fringe wireless devices.
- Run walk test, user code training, and central station test if monitored.
IQ Panel placement
- Mount panel central to wireless sensor layout — not buried in basement corner if sensors are upstairs.
- Route LTE antenna per module guide — attic ANT5XL when internal RSSI is weak.
- Connect AC power before enrolling many sensors; verify battery charges.
- Complete installer programming (zone definitions, dialer, cell module) before user handoff.
Power and connectivity reference
| Product type | Power | Network / RF |
|---|---|---|
| IQ Panel 4/5/Pro/Hub panel | AC + backup battery | PowerG sensors; IQ Cards; Z-Wave automation |
| Wireless sensor | Battery per SKU | PowerG encrypted; IQ Card 319/345 legacy |
| Cell module | Panel-powered | LTE to dealer / Alarm.com |
| IQ Remote keypad | PowerG link | IQ Panel host |
| Z-Wave module | Mains or battery per device | Z-Wave to panel |
Source: IQ Panel 4 installation manual and user guide (Qolsys official documentation).