I’m in the process of setting up a new Qolsys IQ Panel 2 system to replace an existing Powermax wireless system.
I am trying to figure out how to get my existing externally powered sirens working with the IQ 2. Right now, they are set up with an ELK 912 relay module as well as power supply and transformer. I read some of your other posts where you guys recommended the RBSNTTL relay. I have no issue buying a new relay, but the problem is I have 3 Amseco SSX-52SB sirens and they draw around 750 mA each. The RBSNTTL looks to be 2A/28VDC max.
I guess my question really is why can’t I just use the external siren ports on the IQ Panel 2 to activate the relay I already have? Maybe I am overlooking something, but as I understand it the IQ 2 puts out 12VDC on the external siren port - which should work with the Elk relay.
As I said, I have no issue changing my relay/transformer/power supply but I’m unsure if the components I see recommended will be compatible with the sirens I already have. And I would prefer to use the existing sirens.
I guess my question really is why can’t I just use the external siren ports on the IQ Panel 2 to activate the relay I already have? Maybe I am overlooking something, but as I understand it the IQ 2 puts out 12VDC on the external siren port – which should work with the Elk relay.
You can. The recommendation of the RBSNTTL does not preclude any other possible relay available. You can use any appropriate relay for the setup you have.
When I test this setup the relay is not activating.
In my previous post I said that the IQ Panel 2 puts out 12VDc - is that correct? Because I think I might have been misinformed on that or misunderstood the specs. When I trigger the alarm and measure the “EXT SIREN” and “GND” ports I am not seeing any voltage.
Also, it only has a 5.5VDC power supply, so I am not sure how it would output 12VDC
Ah, to clarify: Correct, you would need to wire the IQ Panel 2 per its instructions. See the diagram on page 11 of the manual. The IQ Panel 2 siren output is a relay which switches a 12Vdc power source. You would use an external 12VDC power source as the trigger voltage source.
Replace the siren in the manual diagram with the trigger inputs on the ELK 912.
One last thing, I see Qolsys says “max 12VDC and 300mA”. If I have 3 sirens at 700mA each, does that create a problem? With the way it is set up I am unsure how much actual current ends up running back through the IQ 2.
One last thing, I see Qolsys says “max 12VDC and 300mA”. If I have 3 sirens at 700mA each, does that create a problem? With the way it is set up I am unsure how much actual current ends up running back through the IQ 2.
No, because the IQ Panel 2 is not delivering power to the sirens. The ELK 912 is switching power to the sirens. The IQ Panel 2 is simply switching power to the ELK trigger.
You would use a 12VDC 300ma or less power supply to trigger the ELK, then use your existing external power supply wired to the sirens and ELK relay. You already have the power supply for the sirens, yes?