5 Things to Remember When Wiring Electronic Locks

July 7, 2022
The increased demand for electronic locking solutions requires wiring knowledge.

More locksmith professionals today see increased demand for electronic locks and access control systems. As a result, they’re compelled to expand their expertise beyond the traditional mechanical lock and other door hardware installations they’ve been accustomed to.

The goal to offer more-sophisticated capabilities and services is smart, but taking on these new challenges shouldn’t be taken lightly. Becoming proficient requires significant training and a deep dive into the technology as well as technical aptitude and experience. As you progress in your education, here are five things to remember when wiring electronic locks.

1. Know Your Electronic Locks

In their simplest terms, electronic locks are devices that require an electric current to activate a magnet, solenoid or motor by supplying or removing power. Examples include maglocks, electric strikes, deadbolts and latches.

However, an electronic locking solution also could be an intelligent-key solution, such as an e-cylinder that has self-contained electronics. It also could be an electromechanical lock that’s incorporated into a wired, wireless or Wi-Fi-connected electronic access control (EAC) system operated via a keypad or reader that detects credentials programmed into a keycard, fob or mobile device. Biometric systems also are available.

Along with cost-effective retrofitting, the biggest advantage to electronic locks and EAC solutions is the efficiency and flexibility with respect to key control, because electronics eliminates the necessity to rekey locks and issue or replace brass keys. With EAC, security and facility personnel can issue a physical credential, such as a card, or authorize a mobile device and then customize, update and revoke credentials immediately via remote connectivity. EAC also enables audit trails to track time and location as well as occupancy for future planning.

2. Codes Are Mandatory

Locks generally are for keeping unauthorized people out of a building, not for locking people inside. In fact, locks on exit doors are required to provide free egress out of a building for obvious safety reasons. When you start to add wires and locks that rely on power supplies, several codes come into play.

Let’s start with the International Building Code (IBC). Every city and state in the United States must comply with it by adopting it in whole or in part. After it’s in place, it’s the law that sets minimum standards for that jurisdiction. The IBC also references related and more-detailed codes, such as those from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

NFPA 70 is the National Electrical Code. It outlines the type of wiring and how to run and secure it for various locations, such as drop ceilings, within walls, between floors, etc. Some might believe that the code applies only to high-voltage installations, but it also refers to low-voltage wiring involved in electronic locks and EAC.

NFPA 80 is the specific standard for fire doors, and NFPA 101 is the standard for life safety. All three codes are applicable to electronic locks and EAC.

Paying close attention to codes is paramount also because they relate to whether a lock is specified to be fail-safe or fail-secure, which requires them to be configured and wired in different ways. As a training specialist, I’ve discovered that there often is quite a bit of confusion around the different applications and requirements.

For example, I spoke with a technician who occasionally wires doors for pawnshops, which often are targeted for theft. The owners would ask for a simple light switch that would allow them to activate a maglock on their front door to prevent a suspected shoplifter from escaping.

Although that might have seemed practical, it’s illegal. Certain delayed- or controlled-egress solutions meet requirements — and demand — but a light switch isn’t one of them. Imagine the danger that a blocked egress would pose if a shooting or fire broke out.

It’s important to demystify codes so customers fully understand what installers can and can’t do. Fortunately, it’s easy to find information and training online, as well as in-person courses, so there’s no excuse not to stay current.

Inspections are integral to code compliance. Installations in new construction require permits and inspection to obtain a certificate of occupancy. It’s also advisable to have lock retrofits and upgrades inspected to protect your customer and yourself from potential liability.

3. Any Wire WON’T Do

The gauge of a wire has to be calculated to match the power supply to the electrical demands of the electronic hardware. A modern electric strike, for example, might require only a tiny wire. But the more components are in a system and the farther the distance is from the main power source to the lock, the bigger the gauge of the wire must be for reliable performance. Calculators are online that can help to determine the amount of resistance and the quantity and type of wire necessary. Getting it wrong can be costly.

Another safety factor is the use of plenum-rated and riser-rated cable. Both are non-PVC-coated wire products that are specified frequently. Plenum wire is used in plenum spaces that enclose HVAC ductwork and electrical or network conduit above drop ceilings. It’s designed to prevent the release of toxic fumes and chemicals in the event of melting. Riser cable is used for wiring between floors and prevents fire from traveling through firebreaks.

4. Wire Correctly and Use a Multimeter

Be consistent when you wire. For example, with power sources off, run and connect all the negatives for every component or device and bring them back to the power supply first before you wire the positives. Stick with one color for negative (e.g., black) and another for positive. Shorting out components from mixing wire color happens more often than not.

Knowing when you have to wire in series or parallel and how to do both also is essential. For instance, fail-safe locking devices are wired in series, and fail-secure systems use parallel wiring.

Purchase a multimeter, also known as an electrical meter, if you don’t have one. It’s a quick way to check wiring accuracy and troubleshoot circuitry, and it’s an easy tool to learn. Videos that can show you how to use a multimeter are readily available on YouTube.

5. Consult and Be Prepared

Get an operations narrative from the owner or customer and find out what the user experience is expected to be for a door opening. Important-to-ask questions are:

  • What will someone use to activate access: card, electronic key, etc.?
  • Will they have to be buzzed in?
  • Will there be LED status lights for each door?

Knowing the answers in advance will help installers with organization and ensure they have the right gauges and quantity of wiring on the truck as well as the appropriate tools.

These five tips highlight what to focus on and seriously explore further as you add electronic locks and EAC solutions to your services. Certified training on proper installation and related codes can help to set you up for more success and keep you updated on the latest innovations as you become the go-to resource.

Chad Tibbets is a training specialist at ASSA ABLOY Academy.