I just watched the Johnson Controls recap webinar from ISC West, where they reviewed the new IQ Panel 5, PowerG+ and version 4.6.0 of the IQ software. So many cool new features are on the way!! Here’s a recap of my favorites:
First, a link to their video:
https://youtu.be/WnQaqB2Qyq8?si=mN0J3GFk3IaYJx2O
IQ Panel 5
- Updated chipset and OS
- Updated mount and power connector
- More robust tamper on back of panel
- 13 MP PortraitView camera
- Z-Wave Long Range
- PowerG+ built in - not a daughtercard.
- Reorganized the LEDs to make it smaller and more hardware controlled dimming (for those of you that battle with the ‘too bright’ LEDs on the IQ 4!)
But most interesting is the inclusion of PowerG+ in the unit. Any legacy protocols (319, 345, 433) will be an add-on card, to reduce the number of different SKUs and are a’la carte.
The entire lineup is getting an upgrade - IQ 5 Panel, Hub and NS.
PowerG +
They gave a quick overview of PowerG+. It adds a better look/feel that is consistent across the line with better plastics. Also a number of other features, like:
- PullTab Learning
- QR Code Learning
- Over the air updates
- Dealer Lockdown (I’m not sure how much I love that, but I do understand the desire!)
- Battery Percentage Reporting visible in the panel and at ADC
Also interesting was the fast overview of some PowerG+ devices
Beyond new versions of existing sensors (with a “PGP” prefix on the part number instead of “PG”), there were a few new sensors that were exciting…
PowerG+ IO Module
This module is super awesome!
This has 2 AUX hardwired inputs (NO, NC, EOL and OEOL) with field calibrated resistence, AND Two general purpose outputs (PGM) 15vDC / 1A.
This has significant potential to be used in a takeover situation, or (my personal favorite) to use as a hardwired, contact based interconnection to home automation systems.
I cannot wait to get my hands on a few of these for the lab!!
It will greatly simplify the work I’ve been doing here, integrating alarms into home automation without the use of complicated Control4 interfaces and the like. (Stay tuned for more on that!)
PowerG+ Water Tile
This module is also very cool
- Water presence detection
- Audible Alarm
- Low Temp Alert
- 5 year battery life
- Cable Accessory Packs for a variety of probe and mounting options
Other items…
We will have to wait for the next webinar to learn more, but they also mentioned:
- PowerG+ Lock Touch w/Zwave and PowerG+
- 3-way switches and dimmers
- Updated Smokes
- Updated CO
The Most exciting announcement: IQ Software v4.6.0
OK - Let’s take a deep breath. I can’t wait for this update. It literally solves some real annoyances!
PowerG+ Battery Monitoring
Z-Wave over the air firmware updates (!!)
Z-Wave Long Range Support
Dual-Path IQ Remote-PG
Now you can connect the IQ Remote-PG with PowerG, but also connect via Wifi to get all the camera streaming goodness right on the panel at the same time as the PowerG robust connectivity.
Silent Disarm
There was a conversation recently on the forum (can’t remember if it was Suretyhome or on Reddit) about the need to disarm silently. It is now an extra button option on screen!
And the big one:
Doorbell Camera Analytics on Panel
If you have an ADC Doorbell event, you will get a popup text and then immediately a screenshot of the video event will appeasr right on the panel! So you know who is at the door before they ring, without taking any action!
Camera Analytics on Panel
Beyond the ADC Doorbells, any ADC camera can be configured to have the person detection auto-pop the thumbnail of the person on the panel along with a chime or voice announcement! So incredibly cool and useful.
Another personal favorite:
Show Indoor and Exterior Temperature on Panel
This one I had implemented a workaround for, so I’m so glad it is here!
This allows you to select PowerG devices that report temperature and assign them as the outdoor and/or indoor temperature for your system. It will then display them on the screen UI and on the Weather Clock!
Dark Mode on the IQ Remote
Being a Dark Mode guy - it was frustrating that my remote didn’t support it. But now it does!!
Other Improvements
Better Dimming Slider
Change the order of Automation Devices on the panel (lights/switches)
This might actually make this useful! Yes! I wish they had grouping too, but that might be asking too much. LOL.
That’s all I know! 
I look forward to future webinars and to getting my hands on the updated 4.6.0 code. Once the IQ 5 comes out there will be one here ASAP. I’ll report back once I do.
What do you think about these new features?
Let us know in the comments.