Retrofit Hardware Opportunities

Nov. 1, 2016
Seize the opportunity to improve the safety and security for your client with a product upgrade, rather than maintain the status quo.

Service calls involve repairing, replacing or upgrading security equipment. While it is admirable to take an existing piece of equipment and repair it, this may not be in your best interests. Your best interests are making your customer happy and safe while you are making money and conducting yourself in a professional manner.

Even those of us who recognize well-built and well designed hardware and consider ourselves craftsmen and stewards of our environment may not be doing ourselves or our clients a favor by reviving a lock.

One reason is warranty. The expression “if you touch it, you own it” applies, because once you take on the repair of an item, you take ownership of it in that the client now expects it to be good as new and last forever. Another reason is the time you will expend refurbishing the item, especially if you have to research and order parts. That’s assuming that repair parts are available for the item. Perhaps the item is discontinued and no longer supported.

Often if a lock or device has failed, it signals that the end of life has been reached and other parts of the product will soon fail as well. Sometimes if one part fails, it puts excessive stress on other parts of the device which may not be immediately apparent. Another factor is that hardware does not always fail immediately, or of it is in the process of failing, people will continue to try to use it any way thereby causing damage to the door or other elements of the assembly. Besides these reasons, the item may no longer meet code.

Finally, you may have an opportunity to improve the safety and security for your client, rather than maintain the status quo.

These are all ways to approach your next service call.

In the security industry, time is often critical, and returning a lock into service is critical.

Following are some of the refrofit products on the marketplace that have the potential to improve your customer’s security and meet Life Safety Codes.

Southco SELS

Southco, Inc., a manufacturer engineered access solutions has recently launched a fully integrated Self-Contained Electronic Locking System that incorporates an access control device, electronic lock, electrical override and power supply.

This AA battery-operated unit is available with keypad or RFID access, features a stylish, drop in assembly and provides full electronic locking functionality for a variety of applications.

Southco’s SC Self-Contained Electronic Locking System features a single component design that can be easily mounted into a standard 25x150 panel prep, simplifying the integration of an electronic access solution into a cabinet design, and eliminating the need for the wiring or connecting of separate components.

Engineering Manager Kevin McCloskey adds, “The Self-Contained Electronic Locking System offers the option to easily upgrade existing enclosures and equip new applications with keyless access. Simply drop the Self-Contained Electronic Locking System into your panel prep, install the mounting bracket and cam, and it is ready to use.”

More Info: www.southco.com

LAZERPOINT RF™

Lazerpoint RF™ by Camden Door Controls is an advanced wireless activation system for automatic doors. This remarkable 915MHz. spread spectrum (broadband) wireless system provides reliable performance in many applications where wireless could not be used in the past. Lazerpoint RF™ also offers a range of exclusive features designed to make installation and service easier, including a battery test gauge, built-in signal strength indicator and stuck switch alarm.

Lazerpoint RF™ is supported with the widest range of wireless transmitters, receivers, accessories and compatible activation devices in the market. Lazerpoint RF™ is also ideal for retrofit applications with compatibility with most 300MHz., 318MHz., 390MHz. and 433MHz. fixed frequency wireless systems.

Lazerpoint RF™ 915 Mhz. spread spectrum wireless systems are designed for use with any automatic door operator. The system offers exceptional reliability and a complete wireless activation solution, whether in new construction or retrofit. With the option to utilize existing fixed frequency transmitters, Lazerpoint RF™ technology is also utilized with other wireless activation devices, including CM-120 Series keypads and CM-330 Series Hands Free switches. Lazerpoint RF™ is designed to reduce the cost of installation with a range of exclusive features, including door sequencing, which eliminates the need to purchase a separate door control relay.

Features include:

• 12 Or 24 Volt, Ac Or Dc Operation. Lazerpoint Rf™ Is Compatible With All Automatic Door Operators.

• Advanced 915mhz Spread Spectrum (Broadband) Wireless Communications For Outstanding Range And Performance In The Most Demanding Applications.

• Ultra Compact Designs Fit Where Other Products Can’t, Including Jamb Switch Boxes And Low Profile Door Operators.

• Multi-Year Battery Life (Using Inexpensive ‘Aaa’ Alkaline Batteries) With Exclusive ‘Low Battery’, ‘Gas Gauge’ And ‘Stuck Switch’ Audible Alerts.

• Easy To Activate Handheld Transmitters (Fobs) Designed Specifically For Ada Applications.

• Rx-92 Receiver Model, With Two Channels Plus 6 Operating Modes, Saves Time And Money By Avoiding The Cost Of Buying And Installing Additional Components.

• Optional Plug-In Receiver Modules Provide Compatibility With Other Rf Frequencies.

• ‘Push And Learn’ Transmitter Enrollment And Signal Strength Indicators, Makes Lazerpoint Rf™ The Easiest System To Install.

• The Option For Lazerpoint Rf™ Wireless Compatible Keypads And Hands-Free Switches.

• 3 Year Replacement Warranty.

More Info: www.camdencontrols.com

HES 9400, 9500 & 9600 Strikes

The 9600, 9500 and 9400 electric strikes are surface mounted strikes which are designed to work with rim exit devices. Since they are surface mount requiring no cutting of the door frame, only drilling, and tapping the door frame.

The 9400 series is a slim-line, surface mounted electric strike designed to accommodate rim exit devices with a 1/2" Pullman latch. All components are completely encased within its 1/2" thick stainless steel housing, so no cutting on the frame is required for installation. Simply place the electric strike on the surface of the frame, align it with the exit latch bolt, and install.

The 9400 ships with a 1/8" spacer plate to accommodate varying door gaps. The 9400 exceeds Grade-1 standards for strength and performance. It is field selectable for fail secure and fail safe operation, and for 12 or 24VDC. The 9400 features a smooth cover to conceal the mounting screws and provide a sleek surface for superior looks.

The 9500 Series is a 3 hour fire rated, surface mounted electric strike designed to accommodate rim exit devices with a 3/4" Pullman latch. All components are completely encased within its 3/4" thick stainless steel housing, so no cutting on the frame is required for installation. Simply place the electric strike on the surface of the frame, align it with the exit latchbolt and install. Adjustments have never been easier as the base is now separate from the cover. The 9500 exceeds Grade-1 standards for strength and performance. It is field selectable for fail secure and fail safe operation, and for 12 or 24VDC. This unique electric strike complies with NFPA 80-07 guidelines for retrofit into fire-rated frames.

The 9600 Series is a windstorm rated, surface mounted electric strike designed to accommodate rim exit devices with a 3/4" throw latch. All components are completely encased within its 3/4" thick stainless steel housing, so no cutting on the frame is required for installation. Simply place the electric strike on the surface of the frame, align it with the exit latchbolt and install. It is field selectable for fail secure and fail safe operation, and for 12 or 24VDC.

The 9600 was the first surface mounted electric strike designed with the strength and durability required to exceed the severe forces of ANSI Windstorm testing.

To complement the 9600, 9500 and 9400 electric strikes, HES introduced the 9000-MTK, metal template kit. This magnetic installation template adheres to the frame to help installers quickly and accurately align the latchbolt of the rim exit device with the strike and determine where to drill the mounting holes.

The 9400/9500/9600 series electric strike installation template provides an easy means to assist with the installation of the following:

  • HES 9400 series slim-line, surface mounted electric strike for use with a ½” throw latchbolt.
  • HES 9500 series 3-hour fire rated, surface mounted electric strike for use with a ¾” throw latchbolt.
  • HES 9600 series windstorm rated, surface mounted electric strike for use with a ¾” throw latchbolt.

The keeper block is attached to the template with two screws, and this block has to be in the right position for the electric strike you are installing: one position is for the 9500/9600, and the other position is for use with the 9400. Changing the block position involves removing the two Philips screws and re-orienting the block.

Once the block has been set, place the template into position on the door frame. Both vertical as well as horizontal position must be carefully set with the door shut and using the latch on the exit device as reference.

Then open the door without moving the template and mark the positions of required holes. Remove the template, center punch, then drill the frame.

One hole will be for power. Another hole will be required if the strike has the LBM option. The two holes for attaching the strike have to tapped to ¼-20 UNC.

Dry fit the strike and check for full deadlatch engagement (proper alignment). If the alignment is correct, complete the wiring and mounting of the strike.

The fixture has a magnetic backing which will hold it to the frame while you drill the required holes.

More Info: www.hesinnovations.com

Securitron PowerJump ICPT

One of the more innovative products to be introduced in recent history was the Securitron Power Jump ICPT which ports power contactlessly and invisibly across the door gap to run electrified hardware on the door.

With flexible installation placement on the latch side, hinge side or top of the door, it transfers power without pins or wires, eliminating points of vulnerability and wear... and no need to core drill the door!

Features include:

  • Transfers power wirelessly across door gaps of up to 3/16"
  • Flexible mounting: can be installed on hinge side, latch side or top of frame
  • Dual Voltage output 12VDC or 24VDC field selectable
  • Continuous or intermittent duty
  • For fail secure devices
  • Use with electrified locks, latches or other door hardware requiring up to 6 watts (0.5A@12VDC) of power
  • Adhesive backed templates for accurate installation
  • MagnaCare® lifetime replacement, no fault warranty

Specifications:

  • UL10C fire-rated: 3 hour
  • CAN4-S101(ULC-S104) fire door conformant
  • ANSI A250.13 (±150 psi) Windstorm Listed
  • FCC Part 15 and Industry Canada Compliant
  • Patent: 8,294,302
  • Endurance:  2,000,000 cycles
  • Operating Temperature:  -40 to +120F [-40 to +49C]
  • Electrical: Input 24VDC only 500mA max
  • Output: 500mA @ 12VDC, 250mA @ 24VDC
  • Dimensions: Send Unit (Frame Side): 2-3/4"H x 1-1/4"W x 1-3/8"D

Receive Unit (Door Side):2-3/4"H x 1-1/4"W x 1-5/8"D

Securitron Concealed Electrical Power Transfer

The concealed power transfer mortises into the edges of the door and frame. This is a robust vandal resistant product that impresses customers.

Tamper resistant with no exposed openings prevents foreign objects from reaching the wires or jamming the device.

The CEPT is available with a wide variety of cable options; you are not limited to a few tiny Teflon impregnated wires.

10 wire configuration includes 2-18 gauge wires for higher current devices

Available with CAT-5E and ElectroLynx compatible connectors

All metal construction including backboxes - no plastic

Four architectural finishes: US32, US04, US10 and US10B

Installs above 2nd hinge

7/8" knockouts on back boxes accommodate EMF-type fittings

Tested to 1,000,000 cycles

Note that the CEPT will only function with butt hinges - up to 6" and will not  work on center-hung or balanced doors. It will  work with continuous Hinges – but please check with Continuous Hinge Manufacturer as to their cutout availability and charge for this cutout.

Hinge Door Angle Range

5-1/2" Butt Hinge  0-130 Degrees

6" Butt Hinge        0-110 Degrees

More Info: www.securitron.com

Dortronics Push Button Switches

Dortronics lineup of handicap accessible push button switches are available with a wide range of options. The switches are ideal for installation in hospitals, casinos, warehouses, banks, schools, offices and more.

“The many design options available in our lineup makes push button access available to a wide range of users,” said Bryan Sanderford, National Sales Manager, Dortronics Systems, Inc. “The text is large and easy to read, and the colors are bright and highly visible, creating a more usable and friendly device.”

Installation is easy with options for single and double gang design, and momentary, alternate action and time delayed contacts. Also available are piezo electric switches for heavy duty applications; a variety of button sizes and style selections; and chrome, brass or bronze finishes. Switches can also be configured with LED status indicators or with custom engraving.

Dortronics handicap accessible push button switches are available on the 5210 Series heavy duty palm button switches; 5286 Series code compliant and customizable push button switches; 5287 Series designed to absorb direct force impact and deflect side blows; 5276 Series vandal resistant and waterproof for use in extreme conditions.

Dortronics 4800 Series Smart Interlock Controller

The highly versatile and economical interlock controllers can be user configured in the field to accommodate up to five doors with ample flexibility for various input/output configurations.

“Interlocking door controls are growing in popularity as a way to increase facility security,” said Sanderford. “Our new 4800 Series is aligned with this trend and, by design, gives users more options for door configuring, as well as other features and benefits often found only in more complex and expensive controllers.”

The 4800 Series features 12 field-assignable inputs and 17 configurable relay outputs for maximum flexibility. Additional design features include a unique watchdog circuit that constantly monitors operation; LED indicators for input-output connection status; voltage spike and surge protection on all outputs; and adjustable propped door, panic release and door unlock timers. The 4800 Series is available as a board only module or complete with a heavy duty 4-amp power supply.

Dortronics Systems, Inc. is a U.S. based manufacturer of standard and customized access control products and locking hardware devices, including electric strikes, maglocks, panic bars, key switches, pushbutton controls, delayed egress systems, door prop alarms, and mantrap interlock controllers that can be supplied with alarm annunciators and security consoles. Products are available in a variety of colors and finishes from stock with most products available for shipment the next day. Custom colors, finishes and features are also available upon specification with fast turn-around.

More Info: www.dortronics.com

Codelocks CL55OO

Codelocks’ new CL5500 smart locks offer advanced programming capabilities and access methods.

The lock can be managed with the K3 Connect App by any Bluetooth compatible smartphone.The App is available on Apple App Store for Apple devices or Google Play™ for Android™ devices by searching for K3 Connect. The app enables users to program locks via your smartphone, generate and send codes for easy access, issue smart cards for alternative entry, track and control with audit trail.

The locks provide ­ exibility and convenience by providing a range of entry methods. Clients can control access via a simple code, allocate and register a MIFARE® compatible card or send an invitation to their phone.

They can also allow access at set times of day by setting the lock into Code Free mode. Removes the hassle of unlocking doors for free access periods. Reduce the administration burden of manually putting locks into Code Free mode.

Keep track on when and where the lock was accessed. Download and view the full lock audit trail data.

The lock has two sets of terminals within the front housing for remote release, labelled REM1 and REM2. REM1 is intended for push-button release where the lock will open for the normal set time. REM2 is intended for use where the lock needs to be released for a longer period. When a switch or relay connected to REM2 is closed, the lock will open for a period of 30 minutes after which the lock will revert to normal operation.

Features include:

  • Up to 350 Users
  • 100 Phone Clients
  • 100 Client User Codes
  • 150 Client MIFARE Smart Cards
  • 12 button back-lit keypad
  • Keyless entry - no lost keys
  • Date / Time sensitive NetCodes
  • Set up to 10 Code Free access periods
  • Suspend and Restore any or all Clients
  • Keypad indicates locked / unlocked status
  • Remote release by reception desk button
  • Tamper time out and low battery warning
  • Manage and operate locks via smartphone
  • Personal wireless connectivity for management
  • Mortise Latch, Mortise Lock and Panic Kit available

More info: www.codelocks.us

RiteTouch

The Adams Rite RITE Touch digital door lock provides keyless access control for all-glass openings, offering refined styling, convenient and flexible access control for single or double glass doors.

Intended for indoor applications, the easy to install surface mounted RITE Touch requires no modification to the glass. With choice of thumb turn or ADA compliant accessibility lever, the RITE Touch provides elegant aesthetics with the latest touch screen technology to harmonize style and security.

Adams Rite’s

8600 Series concealed vertical rod (CVR) exit device and the 8800 Series rim exit device from Adams Rite recently passed UL testing and will be available later this year with 5 lbs. maximum activation force. This new activation force complies with the 2013 California Building Code (CBC) that requires hardware to operate with maximum 5 pounds of force, for safe yet secure door hardware operation. These exit devices are ideal for healthcare, hospitality, education, commercial, and retail applications.

More Info: www.adamsrite.com

About the Author

Tim O'Leary

Tim O'Leary is a security consultant, trainer and technician who has also been writing articles on all areas of locksmithing & physical security for many years.