I currently have a big brand alarm system hardwired to a transformer in the master bedroom closet. The picture is attached.
Looks like it is cat 5 or 6 cable. I’m wanting to change systems and monitoring company. Can this transformer and wiring power the 2GIG-CP-345 panel? This panel is 14V.
I think it should work but wanted to ask here.
On second thought, I will likely get either an IQ Panel with 345 support or the 2GIG Edge Panel.
I have around twenty to twenty-five 345 non-encrypted sensors (window, glass break, and CO). I don’t see the need to replace those at this time.
I would like to wall mount either unit and power it with a transformer. Should I still be able to rig either panel up with the wiring in the picture above?
Finally, which panel provides more bang for your buck? The IQ Panel 4 or 2GIG Edge?
Thanks!
I would like to wall mount either unit and power it with a transformer. Should I still be able to rig either panel up with the wiring in the picture above?
You can typically reuse wiring, as long as it meets the specs for length and gauge. You cannot reuse the existing transformer, that would need to be removed and the new panel transformer wired up in its place.
It looks like the old system already is doubling up conductors to effectively increase the gauge of the thin cable, you would also want to do that. If that is Cat5 or Cat6 cable, the wire gauge is often 24AWG, and doubled is about 21AWG equivalent.
How long roughly is that cable run? Qolsys specifies up to about 100 feet on 18AWG cable, so this run would need to be a little shorter than that.
The IQ Panel 4 345Mhz version would be the panel I would recommend. You could reuse the existing 2GIG sensors and add PowerG as needed.
I am not sure how long the cable run is. The transformer is in the master bedroom closet and the panel is by the garage door entry - both are downstairs so I’m guessing the run is less than 100 feet.
Does the back of the IQ Panel have termination posts for the conductor wires? I figured I would need to use the transformer that comes with the new panel.
Does the back of the IQ Panel have termination posts for the conductor wires? I figured I would need to use the transformer that comes with the new panel.
Yes the IQ Panel 4 backplate has input terminals for power.
Thanks for the reply!
Glad to hear this should work and I’ll be able to power the IQ Panel 4 with the Cat 5/6 cable. Aside from the wire length, is there anything I need to be concerned about?
Check the expiration date on any CO and Smoke detectors, as those do have an end of life when they have lost too much sensitivity.
Also be sure when mounting the panel that the thing flexible white sensor RF antenna is routed out the back of the panel into the wall for proper signal reception of the 345Mhz sensors. If left in the panel it can cause problems with sensor signaling.
Is there a tool / bit to twist the conductors of the Ethernet cable? I want to make sure conductors are twisted tightly together.
I’ve used a pair of small pliers to do it. B-Wire connectors might help to make the connection so you only have to connect 1 wire to the terminal.
Is it stranded or solid wire?
