1: Identify the customer's needs Grading criteria for electric strikes and for security include:

When it comes to making a decision • Cycle testing - is cycled about electric strikes, you have a choice. with compatible hardware at a rate not to exceed 30 cycles per minute Figure 1.3 The prices range from about $30 to over $300. It is imperative that you choose an (See figure1.3) electric strike based on your customer's Grade 1 needs rather than on price alone. • Static strength testing - with the 500,000 Cycles 1500 lbs electric strike in the locked position, 70 Ft lb Frequently, a tremendous amount of continuous force is applied to a money is put into the sys- specified point on a at a rate not slower than 10 pounds-force (44N) nor Grade 2 tem, but when it comes to the electric 300,000 Cycles strike, corners are cut. faster than 20 pounds-force (90 N) per 1000 lbs second until the rated static strength 50 Ft lb Don't install an electric strike just is reached and held for 1 minute prior because it is the cheapest product on the to separation (See figure 1.4) Grade 3 market. 100,000 Cycles • Dynamic strength testing - a ram is 500 lbs 33 Ft lb What happens if that product fails soon used to deliver 5 impacts at a specified after it is installed? You may only have to point on a door at the rated dynamic BHMA Grading spend $30 or $40 to replace the electric strength (See figure 1.5) strike, but how much time will you spend going back to the site? How much is your When selecting an electric strike for an Figure 1.4 time worth? opening be aware of the grading being used on all of the door hardware, it must Performance tests have been established be consistent or meet required specifica- to ensure safety, security, and stability to tions. For an opening to meet a particular which the public is entitled. grading all the associated products must meet the same grading. Other wise, the Performance and durability levels are opening takes on the rating of the product governed by industry standards estab- with the lowest grading. The amount of lished by organizations such as the usage an opening receives can help American National Standards Institute determine the grading an opening Static strength testing (ANSI), Builder's Hardware requires.* (HES offers a variety of grade 1 Manufacturers Association (BHMA), and solutions, see page 16) Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL). The electric strike is the pivotal piece of Figure 1.5 These written descriptions and criteria locking hardware for an opening. precisely define the appropriate opera- However much may be spent on the tion, performance characteristics, physi- access control system, the door, or the cal properties, test values, usage parame- frame; the electric strike is the physical ters, safety criteria, and other factors of control that keeps the opening secure. builder's hardware products. BHMA is the only U.S. organization accredited by ANSI In addition to these issues, think about to develop and maintain performance how your customer will perceive your standards for builder's hardware. services. Isn't it important for your cus- tomer to think of you as the one who will Dynamic strength testing hardware and electric strikes fall get it right the first time? Provide quality under the same ANSI/BHMA product products and service so that your cus- grading. Performance level benchmarks tomer, your greatest marketing resource, are defined by ANSI/BHMA standards will refer you to others. and are assigned Grades 1, 2, or 3 - with Grade 1 being the highest.

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 2 2: Determine the type of lockset When you are dealing with existing door that the electric strike will inter- hardware, you should choose an electric act with: Cylindrical, Mortise, or strike that will perform the same function Exit Device? as the strike plate supplied with the lock. (After all an electric strike without elec- tricity is nothing more than an expensive Figure 1.6 An understanding of the basic relation- strike plate). To properly match the two, ship between the lockset and electric you only need to know five basic principles. latchbolt strike is the next essential step in deter- mining what type of electric strike to use. 1) Understand the type of bolt or bolts on the lock. There are three main types of locksets: cylindrical, mortise, and exit devices. There are as many as three components Knowing what type of lockset is being to some locksets, the bolt, deadlatch deadlatch used is important when selecting an elec- and deadbolt. Remember, the electric tric strike. strike will need to provide the same func- Cylindrical lockset tion as the strike plate provided with the A cylindrical lockset is a bored lockset is lockset. Therefore, a basic understanding designed to fit in a cylindrical hole. of the lock is an important requirement Cylindrical is the most common lockset when choosing an electric strike. and it is used in the largest variety of applications from residential to commer- • A latch bolt is a spring loaded bolt that Figure 1.7 cial. (See Figure 1.6) is ramped on the closing side to enable it to be depressed upon the closing of TIP: An easy way to recognize a the door. The bolt then will spring cylindrical lockset is by verifying the outward when positioned over the height of the faceplate on the edge of deadbolt strike cavity to secure the door. the door to be 2 ¼" latchbolt • A deadbolt is a bolt that must be A mortise lockset is a lockset the case of manually extended into the strike deadlatch which is designed to fit in a mortise in the cavity to secure and lock a door. The edge of a door. The term "mortise" is a deadbolt must similarly be manually Mortise lockset wood worker's term referring to a rectan- retracted from the strike cavity to gle cavity cut into a piece of wood to unlock a door. receive a mating tenon (as in a mortise joint). This is a heavy duty lockset used • A deadlatch is designed to work in often in commercial or industrial applica- conjunction with the latch bolt. When tions. This lockset may have multiple bolts the deadlatch is depressed, it locks the to interact with. Tip: an easy way to rec- Figure 1.8 latch bolt in the extended position. If ognize a mortise lockset is by verifying the deadlatch is not depressed, the the height of the faceplate on the edge of latch bolt can be retracted with a the door to be around 8". (See Figure 1.7) housing cover credit card. pullman style latch An exit device is a lockset whose latch ANSI specifications dictate the dimen- mechanism releases in the direction of sions for the body of a and egress via a bar or panel extending its components, but they don't state how crash bar across the major width of the door. This the latch bolt, deadlatch and deadbolt are lockset often uses Pullman style latches to be arranged on the lock. Therefore, which are types of latches which pivot Exit device most of the manufacturers design their like a hinge and whose locking side is mortise locks in slightly different configu- rounded. Exit devices are used mainly in rations. This makes it important to know commercial or industrial applications to which lockset manufacturer you are using meet Life Safety or Fire Protection codes. when choosing an electric strike to (See Figure 1.8) accommodate these locks.

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 3 2) Whether to use a mortised electric below the center line of the electric strike or a surface mounted electric strike. Some electric strikes require the strike should be based on the type of proper handing to line up properly, but hardware on the door. many now are non-handed.

Figure 1.9 The term "mortise lock" stems from the Figures 1.10 and 1.11 show the difference rectangle shape of the lock body and the in the placement of a cylindrical lock vs. a rectangle cavity required in the edge of mortise lock with an electric strike. Door stop the door for installation. 5) Align the electric strike to properly Similarly, when an electric strike is depress the deadlatch. Face ANSI installed in a door frame so that the face Dust box plate is "flush" with the rabbet of the Many locksets also have deadlatches. A frame, it is referred to as a mortise instal- deadlatch is a latch in which the latch Strike lip lation. Mortise electric strikes are used to bolt is positively held in the projected accommodate most types of locksets, position by an auxiliary mechanism. This including mortise locks, cylindrical locks, latch functions as an "anti-pick" device to cylindrical deadbolts and unit locks. prevent tampering. Accommodating a Door rabbet lockset with a latch bolt and a deadlatch, A "surface mounted" electric strike is the electric strike must be designed to Door jamb description mounted on the surface or soffit of the properly depress the deadlatch. Failure to door frame. These electric strikes are do so will compromise the security of the used to accommodate "rim" (or surface) lockset. mounted exit devices and surface mount- Figure 1.10 ed latch bolts and deadbolts. Oftentimes 3: Determine the type of frame these electric strikes are not completely the electric strike will be surface mounted. The faceplate will be installed into: Hollow-metal, surface mounted, but the body of the Aluminum, or Wood electric strike will still need to be mor- C L ELECTRIC tised into the frame. C STRIKE There are basically three types of frames L (See Figure 1.9) LOCK that will be encountered in the field - hol- low metal (steel), aluminum, and wood. 3) The electric strike must have correct Cylindrical lock aligned with its cavity depth to accommodate the lock. Hollow metal frames are the most com- centerline equal to the centerline of the mon type of frame. If the electric strike is electric strike Latch bolts have various lengths (or pro- being installed into a hollow-metal frame, jections) so it is important to choose an almost any electric strike will work. electric strike with the correct cavity However, there is an old adage about Figure 1.11 depth to accommodate the latch bolt. Any "hollow-metal" frames and that is: "hollow- electric strike selected should have the metal rarely is." What this means is, "hol- cavity positioned to match up with the low-metal" door frames are usually not bolt of the lockset. hollow - they are often filled with con-

C crete or other materials. This is required L LOCK 3/8" C 4) The center lines of the lock and L ELECT R IC to stabilize the door frame. STRIKE electric strike should line up properly based on the type of lock. 3/8" OFFSET Have you ever tried to install an electric strike with a solenoid protruding from it? It is important to evaluate whether or not It is not difficult to do if the door frame is Mortise lock aligned with its the type of lockset used is on center with truly "hollow." It becomes very difficult if centerline 3/8” below the centerline of the electric strike cavity. For example, the the electric strike the frame is not "hollow." Many electric center line of a cylindrical lock should strikes today have an internal solenoid match up with the center line of the elec- making them easy to install. In many tric strike cavity, whereas the center line applications, building codes prevent the of the mortise lock is positioned 3/8" installation of an electric strike designed

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 4 with an external solenoid, when the Fail safe is when the power fails, the installation penetrates the drywall. unlocked opening is safe to enter and Aluminum frames usually encase glass, exit, the electric strike requires power to both in the door itself and in the adjoining lock. walls. Many times the glass is encased Figure 1.12 within 1-1/4" of the surface of the frame, Different applications will require either making the overall depth of the electric fail secure or fail safe electric strikes. If strike important. Selecting an electric the door is "fire fated," a fail secure elec- strike that is compact enough to be tric strike is necessary. This type of door installed in these frames without cutting is a barrier door. If the door is classified into the glass can save you money and as a "life safety" door, the operation of the time in the field. electric strike must be fail safe to allow free egress. Wood frame installations present many of the same concerns as you might find with If ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

internal solenoid concrete filled metal frames. Using an laws apply to the door, an audible (buzzer) electric strike that is compact or has an or visual (LED) indication of the door sta- internal solenoid can help with the ease tus may also be necessary. Always verify of installation. local codes and regulations that must be met when selecting an electric strike. external solenoid 4: Assess the voltage requirements SECTION II Internal vs. external solenoid Electric strikes come in a variety of volt- Basic Tools Used in Electric ages with 12 and 24 being the most com- Strike Installation mon. If no system is present, you can choose the voltage and design your sys- Various tools are used in the installation tem around it. of an electric strike. Your choice of tools will depend on your personal preference Many people choose 12 volts because of and the type of installation you are doing. the easy access to batteries to back-up the system. A good reason to choose 24 The following is a list of the most com- volts is due to a lower current draw to monly used tools and some points of allow multiple strikes with one power interest about them. All of these tools source. (See Section IV, Understanding require varying degrees of skill or prac- Basic Electronics.) tice and can be used with a variety of tool bits depending on the application and kind 5: Identify the codes and of cut. Always wear a protective shield or requirements for the place of glasses when using these tools. installation Reciprocating Saw (Sawzall) - a portable Local building codes and requirements power saw with a reciprocating blade, (a are always an important consideration blade that moves alternately backward when specifying an electric strike. and forward) • Moderate cutting speed and accuracy. Codes regarding Life Safety or Fire • Good for hollow metal and aluminum Protection will dictate how the electric frame. strike must function, such as fail secure or fail safe. Die Grinder - heavy duty rotary tool • Ideal for hollow metal and concrete Fail secure means when the power fails filled metal frames. the opening remains secure. In other • Easy to over-cut installation. words, the electric strike requires power • Leaves a slight burn mark around the to unlock. cutout (approximately 1/16" to 1/8").

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 5 Dremel Tool - lightweight rotary tool Q: Will the electric strike fit into the door • Very slow but provides a clean cutout. frame or the inactive door in a double • Best to use for small repetitive surface door application? cuts. Q: Is the electric strike the correct func- • Ideal for hollow metal or concrete filled tion, fail secure or fail safe, to meet the Figure 3.1 metal frames. codes and the application? • Ideal for fine or small cutting areas (i.e. Q: Is the electric strike the correct voltage cutting out the dust box in a metal for the system? frame). Most electric strike manufactures provide

C L Jig Saw - a sawing machine with a nar- templates to aid in the installation of their ELECTRIC C STRIKE L row, vertically reciprocating saw, used to electric strikes. By investing a little cut curved and irregular lines, or orna- getting to know the product before you mental patterns in openwork begin cutting the door frame, you can • Moderate cutting speed and accuracy. avoid many hidden surprises. Cylindrical lock aligned with its • Good for hollow metal and aluminum centerline equal to the centerline of the electric strike frames. Installing an electric strike

Router - a machine with a revolving verti- 1) Mark the centerline of the lockset on cal spindle and cutter for milling out the the frame where the strike will be surface of wood or metal installed. • Easy to over-cut installation. This will allow you to properly align the Figure 3.2 • Ideal for wood and aluminum frames. electric strike with the lockset. *Note: Installation jigs are available (See Figures 3.1 and 3.2) through specialty companies to aid in routing aluminum frame installations. 2). Use the manufacturer's instructions • Very messy - the router will spread (supplied with the electric strike) to meas- C L LOCK 3/8" C L debris over a large area. ure and mark the appropriate dimensions ELECT R IC STRIKE on the door frame as specified. 3/8" OFFSET INSTALLER'S TIP: It is often beneficial SECTION III to first put masking tape on the door Electric Strike Installation frame where you will be installing the Mortise lock aligned with its electric strike. This serves two impor- centerline 3/8” below the centerline of the electric strike Before you begin any type of installation, tant functions: 1) You can mark dimen- it is important to become familiar with the sions directly on the masking tape, which makes them easier to see in specific electric strike that you will be low-light conditions, 2) The masking installing. Therefore, review the manufac- tape protects the frame surface from turer's installation instructions and tem- being scratched during the installation plate. process.

Make sure the electric strike selected is 3) Using one of the tools described in the right one for the application. Section II, carefully cut out the required section or sections of the frame, as noted By taking the time to answer these five in the manufacturer's electric strike simple questions, you will be able to installation instructions. choose the best electric strike for your application. If the frame has already been equipped with a standard ANSI 4-7/8" strike prep, Q: Will the electric strike stand up to the you will want to use an ANSI 4-7/8" elec- usage frequency and durability require- tric strike. In this type of installation, you ments of the application? will need to cut out a small section of the Q: Will the electric strike fully accommo- face of the frame as specified in the man- date the lockset? ufacturer's instructions. This cutout is an extension of the 3-3/8" ANSI "Lip" of the

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 6 frame, onto the frame face, which will be The electric strike chosen for a wood cut from 5/8" to 2-1/2", depending on the frame installation will only be as strong as Figure 3.3 electric strike selected. (See Figure 3.3) its ability to be secured to the wood. Therefore, you may want to select an STRIKE PLATE In most metal frame applications, a sec- electric strike with a longer face plate. VERTICAL CENTERLINE tion of the ANSI dust box will also need to This will allow you to place the mounting 12-24 UNC THREADS be removed to allow enough room (depth) screws further away from the electric

3/8 STRIKE [9.53] for the electric strike to be installed. It is strike cutout, where they can be better

3/4 [19.05] important to remove only the bottom sec- secured into the wood. (See Figure 3.5)

4-1/8 tion of the dust box, so that the welded 3-3/8 [104.77] [85.73] mounting tab sections remain in place. If INSTALLER TIP: To obtain the best 4-7/8 3-1/2 [88.9] results when preparing a wood frame [123.83] the metal frame was not equipped with an ANSI frame preparation or if the ANSI for an electric strike installation; cut a 1/4" area around the inside of the tem- 3/8 dust box is completely removed, then you [9.53] plate dimensions first with a wood will need to install mounting tabs in the chisel or router for a clean finished frame for the electric strike. edge. The bulk of the material can 5/8 If the frame is hollow, then the electric then be removed quickly, using a 1-1/4 [15.88] [31.8] strike should be easy to insert into the power drill and auger bit. It can then Standard ANSI 4-7/8” strike preparation frame preparation. However, if the frame be finished with a wood chisel. is wood or has been filled with concrete Figure 3.5 or other materials, you will need to create Aluminum frames are made in many dif- a cavity large enough to install the elec- ferent styles. The electric strike may be tric strike. This can be accomplished with positioned close to the edge (the face) of a hammer and chisel by simply chipping the frame, similar to that of a metal frame away the material. In more difficult cases installation. Or, the electric strike may be

3-3/8 you may find hardened concrete filling the positioned a distance away from the edge 1-1/2 [85.72] [38.10] frame. This type of installation may of the frame, similar to that of a wood 10 [254.00] require the use of a "hammer drill" or frame. These installations will also require 3/32 other devices to remove the required that an extended lip be added to the front [2.38] material. of the electric strike to accommodate the 1-1/16 11/16 [26.99] [17.46] 1-3/8 longer reveal. (See Figure 3.6) [34.92] INSTALLER TIP: To obtain the best results, always cut well inside the Installing a surface mounted electric Reveal lines and use a metal file to finish off the cutout. strike to accommodate a surface mounted Typical Wood Frame Installation: A section exit device of a wood door frame with a typical electric In both of these situations it is easy to strike preparation understand why you should select an electric strike with an internally mounted INSTALLER TIP: Cutting a aluminum Figure 3.6 solenoid. An electric strike with a protrud- frame with a router or a jigsaw can be ing solenoid would be very difficult to very messy and noisy. Spread out a install in these frames. drop cloth in front of your work area to capture the aluminum chips and bring a vacuum to clean up after your An important difference between a metal installation. Wear eye and ear protec- frame and a wood frame is the reveal of tion when performing this installation. the frame. This refers to the distance the electric strike is set back into the frame away from the frame face. Many wood When trying to accommodate a surface frame installations require the addition of mounted exit device, the electric strike an extended lip to the front of the electric must replace the existing strike plate to strike to accommodate the longer reveal. perform the same function. Be aware of Additionally, many wood frames have a the clearance between the housing cover decorative wood trim, which extends the of the exit device and the frame; these Typical Aluminum Frame Installation: A actual reveal even further. dimensions may vary between 7/8" (steel section of an aluminum frame with a frame) and 5/8" (aluminum frame) depend- typical electric strike preparation

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 7 ing upon the backset of the exit device. electronic layout of an access control Surface mounted electric strikes can system can remove the complexity of all accommodate the clearance with ¾" the components involved. Figure 3.7 (steel frame) and/or ½" (aluminum frame) face plates. (See Figure 3.7) It may often seem as if one needs to be an electrical engineer when faced with all housing cover Installing an electric strike in the inactive of the electrical terminology associated pullman style door of a double door application with access control systems; but with a little electrical background and a basic Installing an electric strike in the inactive understanding of an electric circuit the door of a pair of is very similar to electronic side of access control can installing the unit in a metal or wood become simple. frame. Typically the door thickness should Exit device be 1 3/4”. Whether your door is metal or In any type of electrical or electronic wood, the electric strike will be positioned equipment or circuitry there are three pri- the same. It will be installed in the edge of mary and basic electrical quantities: the door in a similar fashion to how it Voltage, Current, and Resistance. Figure 3.8 appears in an ANSI metal frame. This type Without going into all of the physics and of installation does require a little extra atomic history behind these quantities 1-3/16" 1-1/4" [30.18] [31.75] attention. There will only be about 1/8" they can be explained simply. 5/8 [15.88] remaining between the electric strike cutout and the outside of the door. Voltage is the amount of energy available

3-3/8" [85.72] However, this is a very typical electric to move a certain number of electrons 4-7/8" [123.82] strike installation and can be mastered (negatively charged subatomic particles with a little practice. (See Figure 3.8) in everything) from one point to another in Feed through for wires 5/32" an electric circuit. Simply, voltage is the [3.96] An electric strike installation in an inac- driving force in electric circuits and is tive door requires the installer to bring the what establishes current. The unit of volt- power to the electric strike. This is age is the volt, symbolized by V or mathe- accomplished by installing a power trans- matically symbolized by E for electromo- fer, such as an electrified hinge or a tive force. Typical Double Door Installation: An electric strike preparation in a standard 1 3/4” power cord, from the frame to the door. inactive door with a double door application The installer must then drill a hole through Current is the flow of electrons through the door (horizontally) and install power an electrical conductor. In all conductive leads inside the door up to the electric or semiconductive materials there are strike cutout. Note: If the door is a fire free electrons available that will flow if a rated door, then you should check with voltage is placed across the material. The your local fire marshal before you begin movement of the free electrons from the installing the electric strike. Otherwise, negative end of the material to the posi- you might void the door's rating and vio- tive end is the electrical current. late the building codes. Essentially, voltage causes current. The unit of current is the ampere (or amp for short), symbolized by A or mathematically SECTION IV symbolized by I for intesity of current. Understanding Basic Electronics Resistance is the opposition to current Every year, the access control industry (the flow of electrons). Simply, resistance brings a host of new electronic products is the property of a material that restricts to the marketplace. Electric strikes are the flow of electrons. The unit of resist- one product in an array of electronic ance is the ohm, symbolized by the Greek devices. Trying to keep up with the latest letter omega ( ) or mathematically sym- power supply, proximity reader, or biomet- bolized by R for resistance. rics systems can be very intimidating or confusing, but understanding the basic

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 8 One of the most important and fundamen- The Locking Device is the pivotal electri- tal laws in the fields of electricity is the cal component in the access control cir- basic relationship between voltage, cur- cuit, which can be a variety of items rent, and resistance which can be including electrified locksets, magnetic Figure 4.1 expressed mathematically in Ohm's law. locks or electric strikes. An important (See Figure 4.1) electrical factor when considering the locking device is that every electric lock- Voltage is often referred to in respect to ing device is designed to operate at a WR E R the type of current it causes. If the elec- specific voltage while drawing a specific W W trons move around a circuit in the same current. I R direction at all times, the current is said to IR E I W (VOLTS) (AMPS) E be Direct Current (DC). DC voltage is a The Power Source for an access control steady and constant voltage. Batteries system can be a simple plug in the wall E R W EI I (OHMS) (WATTS) are the most common example of DC volt- transformer to complex regulated power age power sources. If the electrons are supplies with built-in logic circuitry. When W 2 2 I R I E 2 E 2 continually changing direction from choosing a power source for an access W R moment to moment from one way and control system it is important to select then the opposite way, the voltage is one that can provide the correct type of alternating its polarity from negative to voltage and amount of current at a specif- Diagram of Ohm’s Law positive, the current is said to be ic voltage needed to operate any electri- Alternating Current (AC). AC voltage is cal devices being powered. not a constant voltage as it continuously Figure 4.2 increases and decreases continuously The Control for an access control system, changing its polarity from positive to like the power source, can range from the + negative thereby affecting the resulting simple to the complex. You might find a Voltage time current. simple switch, like a doorbell button, a - complex biometrics system, like a retinal AC Voltage waveform A cycle of AC voltage is the combined scanner with built-in timer functions, or

+ positive and negative alternation. Cycles something in between. Essentially, the are measured per second with the unit control is a device that manipulates or Voltage time Hertz, symbolized by Hz. Typically AC volt- controls the flow of electricity through the - age power sources are 50/60 Hz (cycles circuit. The important factor when choos- AC Voltage rectified to DC Voltage waveform per second). Generators or power gener- ing the control system in relation to an

+ ating plants are the most common exam- electric strike will be whether it is rated ple of AC voltage power sources. Thus, to handle the maximum voltage and cur- Voltage time every electrical wall outlet is AC voltage. rent requirements of all the devices being - DC Voltage waveform (See Figure 4.2) controlled.

AC/DC voltage A basic electric circuit is an arrangement The Conductor for an access control sys- of components that use voltage, current tem is the wiring that interconnects all of Figure 4.3 and resistance to perform some function. the components together to complete the An electric circuit can be represented by circuit. There are various types of wires a schematic, a diagram that represents and cables, but the essential factor to

Control the interconnection of components. consider is whether it can carry sufficient

Power Locking voltage and current from the power Source Device Conductor The basic access control circuit is com- source over the distance required to all of posed of the Locking Device, the Power the electrical components in the circuit. Source, the Control, and the Conductor Note: Always check with local code that interconnects all of the components. requirements regarding wire No matter how complex an access con- specifications. Basic access control circuit trol system is, it can be broken down into these main components for simplification. Locking devices will have a variety of (See Figure 4.3) voltage or current requirements. Most locking devices are considered low volt-

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 9 age devices working on AC or DC. Electric trol may be, there will always be a switch, strikes are generally 12V or 24V. Some or relay, that is the control point for any of electric strikes are able to work with both the electrical devices it controls. voltages dependent upon wiring. The choice between AC and DC is generally The relay will have a normally open or dependent upon the locking device. normally closed contact, or it may have both with which to connect the electrical When electric strikes were first invented, devices to. The function of the electric almost all were exclusively AC to provide strike will determine which contact is a buzzing sound; thus the phrase "buzz used. If the electric strike is fail secure, it someone in" to an apartment was coined. is usually connected with a normally open AC voltage is commonly 60 Hz, so the switch. Since the electric strike is locked buzzing sound is actually the mechanisms without power, once the circuit is closed, in the electric strike being energized and the electric strike will unlock. This is the de-energized 120 times per second. most common configuration for electric strikes. Although electric strikes are still available with AC voltage, the life expectancy is The fail safe electric strike is usually con- significantly shorter than an electric strike nected with a normally closed switch. that runs off of DC voltage. When an elec- Since the electric strike is unlocked with- tric strike is powered by DC voltage, the out power, the strike is energized con- voltage is constant; therefore, the electric stantly to stay locked, and once the cir- strike is silent. This is most beneficial cuit is opened, the electric strike is with situations in which the electric strike unlocked. This is not a common applica- is energized for extended periods of time, tion, but it is used where life safety codes such as during business hours or with fail must be followed and free egress is safe applications. required.

Power sources are available in AC or DC Conductors or wires are available in vari- and will have a variety of voltage or cur- ous types and sizes. Stranded wire is the rent ratings. Most electrical devices will accepted standard wire type for connect- have voltage tolerances that must be met. ing electrical system components. Some power sources are not regulated, so the voltage provided will not be the Stranded wire is a group of multiple con- same as stated. It is common for trans- ductors braided together to create one formers to exceed the voltage stated by 4- larger stronger conductor. The size of 5 volts. wire is determined by the diameter of the wire. American Wire Gauge (AWG) is a Electric strikes generally have at most +/- common system of numerical designation 10% voltage tolerances. The amps or of wire size. The lower the wire gauge amperage required by electrical devices number, the larger the wire diameter. will also have to be met by the power source. Electrical devices will only draw 18 and 16 gauge wires are very common the amount of current required; any wire sizes for low voltage wiring. Wires excess will be available for any other with larger diameters offer less resist- electrical devices in the circuit. Providing ance and make it easier for current to a power source that exceeds total current flow. A power loss can occur if the wire is requirements of a circuit by at least 20- too small or the distance too great for a 25% allows for any voltage or current loss particular application resulting in lower due to wiring. voltage and current. Generally, as wire runs get longer, wire size must be Controls for an access system, despite increased to prevent voltage drops. any complex extras they might have, should be thought of primarily as a simple switch. No matter how complex the con-

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 10 There are various electrical accessories that can be used for access control sys- b. Verify that the power source can tems. The following are some commonly handle the current draw of all electrical used accessories: components in line with the power source • Rectifier - converts AC voltage to DC c. Verify that the power wires leading to • Buzzer - provides audible indication the electric strike are of a large enough • LED - provides visual indication gauge to handle the current require- • Surge Suppressor - protects electrical ments. Note: Recall that some voltage devices from power surges may be lost when using smaller gauge wires over long distances. SECTION V Trouble Shooting Guide d. Using a multimeter, verify that the input voltage is within the recommended lim Problem: If the electric strike does not its (+-10%). operate properly e. Confirm that the input voltage at the installation site is DC or properly recti- If the electric strike does not operate fied AC. properly, open the door and re-energize the electric strike. If the electric strike f. Verify that all peripheral devices such operates properly with the door held as bridge rectifiers, SMART-Pacs, open, the lockset may be pre-loading or buzzers, L.E.D.s etc... are properly binding the keeper of the electric strike. connected.

Solution: "Pre-load" is any pressure g. Check that the switch, key pad, etc., applied to the keeper of the electric strike meet the voltage requirements for the that causes it to bind. The horizontal rela- system. tionship between the lockset and the electric strike will have to be adjusted to eliminate the binding between the bolt of INSTALLER TIP: To quickly determine the lock and the electric strike keeper. whether an electric strike is defective, install it in a site where an electric Problem: If the electric strike does not strike was previously installed and operate with the door open worked properly. Use an alternative power source to test the electrick If the electric strike does not operate with strike such as a DC battery pack. the door open, remove the electric strike INSTALLER TIP: If the voltage is too low from the frame, leaving the wiring con- to operate the electric strike, a 35 volt, nected, and re-energize the electric 220 micro-farad capacitor may be strike. If the electric strike operates prop- installed across the bridge rectifier erly outside of the frame, then the prob- (positive to positive, negative to nega- lem may be from a tight-fitting frame tive) to provide an initial boost of cutout pinching the sides of the electric power to the unit. This is also helpful to strike together. overcome slight preloading conditions. Solution: The electric strike cutout in the door frame needs to be slightly enlarged. If you have any questions after Other Solutions: If all mechanical prob- reading this guide, call the HES lems have been eliminated without suc- technical service line: cessful electric strike operation, check 1-800-626-7590 the following electrical problems: a. Examine the power supply or trans- former to verify that the output voltage is at the listed rating. HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 11 The 1006 series is the strongest and most versatile The 9500 and 9600 Genesis™ series are electric strike available. It meets or exceeds every heavy-duty, completely surface mounted standard developed for electric strikes. With 27 face- electric strikes designed to accommodate plate options, the 1006 can accommodate virtually rim mounted panic exit devices in metal or every type of lockset on the market. The 1006 fea- wood jambs. Two stainless steel locking tures an innovative dual interlocking plunger design mechanisms operate independently to pro- and heavy-duty, all stainless steel construction. The vide a truly tamper resistant electric strike. 1006 is in a class of its own. Now available in both The 9500 Genesis II™: is the completely sur- fail secure and fail safe models. face mounted, fire-rated version of the 9600.

The 2505 Power Punch™ is The 4500 series is the only low profile electric strike the only power supply designed to fit 2” fire rated frames. The 4500 is a 3 designed to improve the per- hour rated, heavy-duty electric strike for use with formance and extend the life cylindrical and mortise locksets. Accommodates up of electric strikes and other to a 3/4” throw. solenoid actuated devices. The Power Punch™is designed to administer a short, isolated 38 Volt spike to enhance the initial unlocking operation of an electric strike. The power is then reduced to 75% of the electric strike’s nominal voltage, which reduce heat build-up and extends the life of the solenoid.

The low profile 5000 series is a compact, heavy- duty and high performance electric strike designed for low profile openings where there is limited The HES Hassle Free Guarantee space behind the jamb. This includes narrow style 1 Year “No questions asked” Warranty aluminum jambs and jambs with protruding glass Includes all HES electric strikes, electric locks and electri- inside. Easy to install, this field selectable fail cal components. secure/fail safe unit accommodates 1/2” latchbolts. 3-5 Year Limited Warranty Mechanical components: 3-5 years Electrical components: 1 year

Extended Warranty- on electrical components The 7000 preload series is ideal for many applica- (Registration required) tions with pre-load conditions (door bind) which The Smart-Pac II™ extends the 1-year warranty on electri- may be caused by a warped or misaligned door, cal components (solenoid) to the full 3-5 year warranty of weather stripping, a smoke seal, etc. Field selec- the electric strike. table fail secure/fail safe with an internally mount- ed solenoid, the 7000, 7400, and 7500 are easy to 6-10 Year Limited Warranty install in hollow metal, concrete filled metal, wood (Registration required) and aluminum jambs. Any HES electric strike used in conjunction with the Model 2505 Power Punch™ is warranted to twice its original mechanical & electrical warranty.

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 12 Electric Strike/Lock Cross Reference Chart HES ANSI LOCK DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER ELECTRIC STRIKES • Use this chart to identify ANSI locks 1006J- Up to 1” throw and to select which Cylindrical locksets. 4500 HES electric strike All manufacturers. 5000 - Up to 1/2” throw 5700 - Up to 1/2” throw will provide the cor- All locks with center rect alignment to lined latchbolts. 7001, 7002, 7501, 7505 Up to 5/8” throw release each lock, (in both new and Accurate, Arrow, retrofit ANSI 4-7/8” Baldwin, Falcon (1991& 1006K jamb preparations). earlier) Marks, Omnia, 4500 PDQ • Use this chart to determine which Mortise locksets with 1006KM Best HES electric strike a deadlatch positioned 4500 above the latchbolt. matches a specific manufacturer’s lock. Sargent (7700 & 8100 1006KD series), Schlage, Yale HES electric strikes are all non-handed Almet, Corbin/Russwin, Mortise lockset with a and designed for Falcon (1992 “M” 1006KM deadlatch positioned installation in hollow Series), Sargent (7800, 4500 below the latchbolt. metal, concrete filled 8200, & 9200) metal, aluminum and Accurate, Arrow, wood jambs. 1006N Baldwin, Best, Corbin, 1006A Falcon, Marks, Omnia, 1006H Mortise lockset with a PDQ, Russwin 1” deadbolt without a 1006ND deadlatch. Sargent (7700 & 8100 1006AD HES electric strikes are series), Schlage, Yale 1006HD designed to be installed in accordance with the ANSI/BHMA A156.5 4-7/8” Mortise lockset with a Baldwin, PDQ 1006T jam preparation. When 1006HTD accommodating a cylindri- 1” deadbolt and a cal lock, the electric strike center positioned Sargent is to be installed centerline deadlatch. Schlage 1006TD to centerline. When acco- Yale modating a mortise lock,the centerline of the Accurate, Almet, Arrow, electric strike is to be Mortise lockset with a Baldwin, Best, Corbin, installed 3/8” above the 1006NM 1” deadbolt and a dead- Falcon, Marks, Omnia, centerline of the mortise 1006AM latch positioned below PDQ, Russin, Sargent lock. 1006HM latchbolt. (7800, 8200 & 9200 NOTE: This chart is offered series) as a convenience only. HES assumes no liability Adams Rite, American 7000-83, 7000-786, for the differences Rim mounted exit Device, Arrow, Jackson 7000-789 between items compared. device with up to a Dormatic, Monarch, When compatitibility is a 9500 3/4” throw. Precision, Sargent, Von concern, contact HES for 9600 Duprin, Yale application assistance.

10/2003

HES--A Complete Guide to Electric Strikes 13