Adding a Siren to the Qolsys Hardwire 16-F

In this video, Joe shows users how to connect a siren with the Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F Wired to Wireless Converter. The IQ Hardwire 16-F is a great device because it functions as a wireless relay between the IQ Panel 2 and a hardwired siren. This eliminates the need to add a separate external relay.

If a user has a hardwired system with existing sensors, they might add a wired to wireless converter when upgrading to a wireless system. This way, they can keep their existing sensors in place and avoid having to purchase completely new sensors. The hardwired sensors will connect with the converter. The converter will then communicate with the wireless system wirelessly. This is done on the behalf of the hardwired sensors. The panel will then recognize these hardwired sensors as though they were wireless sensors. Each hardwired sensor that is used in this manner will require its own wireless zone on the system.

The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F actually offers a few unique features as a wired to wireless converter. The device features 16 zone terminals for hardwired sensors. The 16th zone is a normally open zone designed for 2-wire smoke detectors. You can also use it as a standard zone if desired. The IQ Hardwire 16-F has siren terminals that are used for providing power to an external siren during alarm events. And a built-in relay will even cut power once the alarm is cleared. The module can provide up to 500mA of power to operate the siren. As long as you do not exceed this load, then no external power supply will be needed. The device is used primarily with the original IQ Panel 2 and the IQ Panel 2 Plus Systems. But it can technically be used with any 319.5 MHz system.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 Plus RF PIC Version must be version 11.1.4 G2 or higher to support wirelessly controlling the Hardwire 16-F's siren output. The module will work on older RF PIC versions, but the siren wiring would need to be modified using Alt Siren Wiring - A, or Alt Siren Wiring - B from the Install Guide.

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Note: The Qolsys IQ Hardwire 16-F only operates as a wireless siren relay if the IQ Panel 2 Plus System is RF PIC Version 11.1.4 G2 or higher. It is impossible to upgrade from an older IQ Panel 2 system. If you have an older IQ Panel 2 and you want the IQ Hardwire 16-F to operate as a wireless siren relay, then you will need to replace the system.