RX for REX:

Exit bars are electronic, mechanical, or a combination of two technologies. Electronic bars use sensors to detect pressure or someone touching them to release the locking device and signal the access control system. Mechanical bars use switches and the pressure of the person attempting to egress to actuate the bar.

Dual technology exit bars use two technologies to increase their reliability. Illuminated and luminescent models are available.

The single biggest advantage of the exit bar is that it is a universally recognizable means of unlocking a door, and a person approaching a door on foot, will intuitively push on the bar, even if he or she does not know what the word EXIT means.

The single biggest drawback to the exit bar is that it is necessary to get the required wiring from the exit device to the hinge edge of the door, then from the hinge edge of the door over to the fixed door frame. Because the door moves, whatever method used to transfer the circuits are exposed to stress, movement and possibly vandalism. Electric hinges, pocket transfers, door loops are the most commonly deployed transfer solutions with other specialty products also available to professional designers with special requirements.

REX kits are also available for many exit devices, where signals are required for interfacing with security systems, or supplemental locks are being retrofitted to existing structures to ramp up building security.