Qolsys brand S-Line sensors and DSC brand PowerG sensors both offer a variety of sensor types that utilize encryption for communication transmission, to ensure that sensor event transmissions are always unique, preventing and eliminating common replay attacks.
The information below is what separates the Qolsys 319.5MHz S-Line sensors from PowerG sensors:
Qolsys S-Line 319.5Mhz
Encryption
S-Line Sensors utilize an advanced encryption scheme between the sensor and the IQ Panel (2/2+ and 4). At time of pairing, S-Line technology passes a unique key which enables the encryption algorithm for unique event transmissions.
Range
All Qolsys S-Line sensors feature around 600ft communication range in an open-air environment.
Compatibility
S-Line sensors work with the following alarm panels:
- Qolsys IQ Panel 2
- IQ Panel 2+ QS9201-1208-840 (Verizon) and QS9202-1208-840 (AT&T)
- IQ Panel 4 IQP4001 (Verizon) and IQP4004(AT&T)
DSC PowerG
Encryption
Power G sensors operate at 900 MHz frequency and use 128-bit AES encryption. They also offer Multichannel, Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum technology which enables the system to hop between wireless frequency channels to ensure the seamless transmission of secure communications between the devices and the control panel.
Range
All PowerG sensors feature about 2,000 ft communication range in an open air environment when connected to Qolsys brand panels.
Compatibility
DSC PowerG sensors work with the following Qolsys alarm panels:
- IQ Panel 2+ All Versions
- IQ Panel 4 All Versions
Conclusion
Overall, when compared to S-Line, PowerG sensors are going to boast greater communication range with a more robust encryption scheme, while typically they have a higher up-front cost.