ENGAGE™ Technology, Schlage ND Locks Simplify Transition to Smartphone Credentials

Oct. 1, 2014
Wireless lock replaces standard cylindrical lock; ENGAGE mobile and web apps provide easy management

ATLANTA (September 29, 2014) – New Schlage® NDE wireless locks with ENGAGE™ technology from Allegion streamline the transition from mechanical keys to electronic credentials. Easy to install, manage and use, ENGAGE technology makes it simpler and more affordable to use electronic locks and credentials in interior commercial office applications.

Using wireless technology, the ENGAGE platform allows users to gain access to interior offices, common areas and other sensitive places by using mobile credentials on a compatible smart phone or by using their existing building ID card. ENGAGE cloud-based web and mobile apps make it simple to manage electronic credentials and locks in just a few easy steps.

For basic applications, the ENGAGE apps provide the freedom to manage locks, add and delete credentials, and view lock history from anywhere via smartphone or iPad app. NDE Series wireless locks can be updated manually at the lock with the ENGAGE mobile app, automatically daily over Wi-Fi 2 or in real-time when connected to an ENGAGE gateway.

In addition, ENGAGE technology enables users who want more advanced capabilities to manage their site with software from one of Allegion’s access control alliance partners. This allows building managers and integrators to seamlessly incorporate ENGAGE technology into nearly any existing application. NDE Series wireless locks with ENGAGE technology are compatible with most proximity and smart cards including aptiQ™ and aptiQmobile.™

According to Allegion President, Chairman and CEO Dave Petratis, even traditional mechanical devices are becoming intelligent and are driven by technology. He described the combination of ENGAGE technology and new Schlage NDE locks as “the convergence of electronics and mechanical electronic devices for access in a new keyless era.”

NDE Series wireless locks simplify installation by combining the lock, credential reader, door position sensor and request-to-exit switch all in one unit. Schlage NDE wireless locks with ENGAGE technology are designed to fit into a standard cylindrical door prep, for easy retrofit installation. The locks can be installed in minutes using just a Phillips screwdriver, and don’t require any holes to be drilled or wires to run to the opening.

The lock is powered by four AA batteries and after it is installed, it is WiFi-enabled and automatically connects with the cloud. Facility managers or IT managers can use the app to grant cellphone access in seconds.

NDE locks with ENGAGE technology were specifically developed for the commercial office environment, where exterior doors likely have electronic access control but individual offices and suites are still opened with mechanical keys, said Allegion’s Tim Eckersley. “Our goal is to reach the 90 percent of interior office doors with this cost-effective, Grade 1 product.”

He estimated that the lock could be purchased and installed for less than $1,000 per door, significantly less than the cost of electrifying an opening.

ENGAGE offers the scalability to allow building owners and managers to customize the system according to the size of the facility, the tenants’ needs, and the budget. Once it’s installed, the system can be adapted to meet changing needs as the facility grows, or as tenants move in, move out, or reconfigure their spaces.

NDE series wireless locks will be available in the 4th quarter of 2014. They are ANSI/BHMA A 156.25, ANSI/BHMA Grade 1, UL 10C and UL 294 certified and meet LEED and ADA requirements.

For more information about ENGAGE technology, visit allegionengage.com.