This is a follow up to another post about implementing a Z-Wave based Strobe or Siren, and focuses on a more classic install using a Hardwire takeover module
Adding a Seco-Larm Strobe/Siren to IQ 4 Panel via Hardwire takeover module
This integration leverages a IQ Hardwire 16F to connect a 12v Seco-Larm Stobe with integrated siren to an IQ 4 Panel. The documentation here provides the connectivity and setup details. For a full discussion of the use cases, and how this is different than the Z-Wave siren integration, be sure to watch the accompanying video on our YouTube channel:
Components Utilized
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The IQ 4 Alarm System including:
- IQ 4 Alarm Panel
- IQ Hardwire 16F or IQ Hardwire PowerG
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Seco-Larm SL-1301-SAQ
Design Standards
- Since the takeover module offers 12v on its AUX port, we decided to use a siren that could be powered by 12v as well fit within the power budget of that AUX port.
- Since we are using purpose built functionality in the Takeover module(s) we shouldn’t need to use any alarm.com automations to achieve functionality. HOWEVER, the use cases for this version of the solution are more limited.
Overall Configuration
Wiring
The siren OUT and IN ports act as contacts that close when the system is in alarm.
The AUX and GND ports provide + and - 12v DC.
Connect the AUX (+ 12vdc) connection to the IN port.
Connect the OUT port to the to the Positive (Red) wire on the Seco-Larm.
Connect the GND (- 12vdc) to the Negative (black) wire on the Seco-Larm.
Programming
None needed!
When the system is in alarm, the contacts will close activating your siren/strobe!
Note that they will activate immediately, and not wait for dialer delay like the z-wave option that uses automations!
Boxing it all up
In this case, you’d likely not have an enclosure, but rather just run wire from your siren location direct to your takeover module. The mounting of your siren/strobe is up to you in that case but there are no additional components to house in an additional enclosure.
Limitations
The beauty of the Z-Wave scenario is you could put that almost anywhere that you had power, and were within Z-Wave range. With this particular installation method, you need to have a physical wire between the siren/strobe and the takeover module. You also will need to account for voltage drop (effecting distance and wire gauge) and overall available power (power budget) on the AUX port itself.
Overcoming Limitations
There is an alternative approach, of course, where you supply your own 12v outside of the Takeover module, and use the IN and OUT ports solely as a relay to turn the siren on/off as needed. This can remove power budget limitations on AUX from the equation. In the case of the Hardwire PowerG you may need to leverage one of the PGM outputs with a relay to achieve the same.
What’s next
Stay tuned for more videos on integrations. As we progress, you may see me leverage these 12v AUX outputs to power various relays providing inbound and outbound signaling between the IQ and foreign systems, like Home Assistant, Hubitat and others.