ILUS Electronics

ILUS Access Control Q&A: What is the difference between a Magnetic Lock and an electric strike?

2009-06-27T14:28:00.021-04:00

There are two categories of Electric Strike Locks:

o Fail Safe- A door or gate with a Fail Safe lock will remain locked while the Electric Strike Lock is powered. To unlock the power is removed.

o Fail secure – A door or gate with a fail secure lock can be unlocked while powered and will remain locked when the power is removed.

The Electric Strike operates by a combination of electrical and mechanical interactions that can be designed to be either Fail Safe or Fail Secure.

While Electric Strike locks can belong to either the Fail Safe or Fail Secure category, the Magnetic Lock is always Fail Safe.

The Magnetic Lock , in simple words, is an electrically operated large magnet. The electromagnet is typically mounted on the top of the door jamb while a compatible plate, called an Armature, is mounted on the door directly across from the electro-magnet.
The Magnetic Lock will secure the door in a locked position only while powered, which makes it, by default, Fail Safe.
Lock Force – When activated the two parts of the Magnetic Lock are pulled to each other thus holding the door locked by the force created by a magnetic field. This holding force is measured in pounds. Typical holding forces of Magnetic Locks are 300, 600, and 1200Lbs per magnet. Grading Electric Strike strength and resistance is more complicated. It is more dependent on a mechanical design and material strength and less on the force created by magnetic field.

There are two types of Electric Strikes: AC (Alternate Current) operated and DC (Direct Current) operated. Magnetic Locks that must be constantly pulled are operated by DC voltage only.

Application - While Electric Strikes are typically used for the traditional hinged doors, Magnetic Locks offer a higher degree of flexibility and can be installed in variety of door types such as:

o Sliding doors

o Folding doors

o Rotating doors

o Double French doors

The Magnetic Locks come in a variety of forms. The most commonly used are the single and double locks. The double lock is essentially comprised of two locks in one case (see images) and is very commonly used for double doors or gates in different shapes and forms of installation.

Each Magnetic Lock is supplied with a template and wiring diagram, which assists in mounting and installation.

ILUS Access Control Q&A: What happens to my Access Control System if the power goes out?

2009-05-13T15:06:00.004-04:00

We are often approached with some great questions about how our Access Control products apply to real life situations. It’s not enough to say that widget A is compatible with widget B. Everyone uses Access Control in different ways, whether it is for the safety and security of their home or business, or simply a solution for convenience. I’ve heard many ideas and applications, along with questions of concern.

Over the next few blog entries, I’m going to try to address some of these. If you have your own unique question, feel free to email me and I will provide an answer either privately or right here in the blog. No need to be shy.

What happens to my Access Control System (Telephone Entry System, PBX Door Phone, Access Control keypad, Electric Strikes, Magnetic Locks) if the power goes out?

Most Access Control Devices operate on a 12VAC, 12VDC or both. Some devices such as magnetic locks are fail safe and will require constant 12VDC voltage to lock the doors. Other devices (which are Fail Secure) will not operate and will default to manual operation, meaning that to enter the premises you will need to use a key or turn the door handle with your hand.
To overcome this scenario and guarantee continuous operation of your access control you can add a power backup system at a reasonably low cost. Following are typical solutions as they apply to various access control devices.

Electric Strikes and Magnetic Locks operating via a 12VDC will require a 12VDC battery that will kick in automatically when there is a power failure. A very simple battery that is being charged from a 120VAC to 12VDC charger will do the job. A basic crude but effective system would be to use a small car or Lawn and Garden battery powered by a charger. These batteries and chargers can be purchased from any hardware or auto parts store.

Telephone Entry Systems, PBX door phones and many electric strikes are powered by 12VAC. To maintain continuous operation during power failure you can purchase dedicated 12VAC UPS (Uninterrupted Power supply) that will provide 12VAC during normal operation. In the event of a power failure, a battery backup system kicks in and with the help of electronic circuitry the UPS provides continuous 12VAC.

Again, a crude and effective system can be created by purchasing a common 120VAC UPS, typically used for a computer or network equipment, from any computer store, and our 120VAC/12VAC transformer. The transformer, which will be plugged into the UPS, will constantly deliver 12VAC. A typical 600VA UPS will guarantee hours of normal operation to most systems offered by ILUS Electronics.

All of our Access Control Keypads will operate from a 12VAC or DC and will accept either one of the above power failure backup solutions.

Note: This blog entry, like all of our entries, is for information only. If you are not well versed in installation, please hire a professional. ILUS Electronics is not responsible for improperly installed equipment. If you would like our technical support or advice, just send us a note at support@iluselectronics.com

PBX 101: Running Your Home Like A Business

2009-04-30T13:11:00.010-04:00

You’ve probably found yourself admiring the various traits of your place of work and thought, “That could really work well in my house.” Some people have lucrative careers modifying industrial designs for consumer use. Well, some things really don’t need to be modified. That includes PBX phone systems coupled with Access Control.

What does this mean?
Essentially, you can upgrade your home telephone system from all phones on one line to 1 or 2 lines with 8 extensions. Along with this, you can incorporate a Door Phone as an extension, monitor visitors at your entrance and allow them access to your home from any of the telephone extensions. For larger homes or home based business this can be a key factor in home automation and security.

Inside the home, the multiple extensions allow family members and employees the privacy and freedom of their own line without the added expense. Add a PBX Door Phone and you have provided a security measure with the capability to talk with visitors and open the door remotely from any extension.

The system shown here is comprised of the eMax208 Auto attendant PBX Exchange and a PBX Door Phone.

There are two types of PBX Door Phones offered by ILUS Electronics:

Extel with a Call Button – when the call button is pressed all preset extensions will ring
ExCode has a call button and keypad - in addition to the Extel features it will allow the visitor to dial to the extension of choice or let authorized people activate the electric lock by keying a pass word

What are the benefits?

Open Door(s) remotely from any Extension
Extensions can be either rooms in the home or office (see Image)
Initiate calls to or from any extension or Door Phone (you can have multiple Door Phones)
Setup day or nighttime ringing extensions when called from the door phone
Block or enable calls from outside lines to selected extensions
Pre-Recorded Outgoing Message (OGM) will eliminate the nuisance of all phones ringing when an outside call comes in. The caller listens to the message and selects the desired extension.

If you run a home based business, you may have one extension to your office and several others around the house.

Maybe you hang out by the pool or in your workshop and need a way to answer the phone and also monitor visitors coming to the house.

The C.O. (Central Office) Line Reservation allows the user to reserve a line that might be busy. Once the line becomes available the extension will receive a ring and will be connected automatically to the CO line so that a call is not interfered.
The eMAX 208 supports caller ID on all extensions. Allows display of an incoming call on a telephone with the caller ID feature.
Control your Telephone Cost - Set Extensions with permitted area codes and numbers
Call transfer – Transfer any incoming or internal call to any extension
Call pick up - Pickup incoming or internal calls from any extension
Budget Calling Time – Set maximum desired duration of a call for an extension
Different Call Waiting tones signaling calls waiting from external line, internal ext. or door phone, while line is in use. Easy back and forth switching between the calls.
Programmable from any remote phone, even mobile

It’s clear that no matter where or how we live, our home is our castle. For those that work from home this sentiment may ring even more true. As you upgrade your home with all of the modern conveniences that keep you safe and happy, consider one home automation technique that is not only simple, but affordable.

Take a look at the accompanying diagram and let us know if you have any questions about how an Access Control system may best fit into your world. Send us an email at support@iluselectronics.com or call our sales line at 267-983-1300. We look forward to answering your questions.

To find out more about PBX and Access Control, read some of our previous blog entries:

What is PBX?

Basic Access Control: Getting Started

Latch-key Kids: The New Digital Generation

2009-02-24T13:09:00.003-05:00

If you are over the age of 30, chances are your image of a latch-key kid consists of a lanyard with a key around a child’s neck. If said child forgot their key or misplaced it in their locker, they waited on the front porch or at a nice neighbor’s house until Mom or Dad came home. In the new digital age, there are more options that provide a better overall solution for the latch-key kid. In fact, this latch-key kid can now be called, latch keyless.

With the state of our economy many stay at home parents are dusting off their suits and briefcases and returning to work. This means more latch-key kids. If this sounds familiar you have probably thought of how to handle the situation. You may have provided our child a key and figured that the garage door code entry keypad was a good back-up.

Most garage door openers, code entry keypad or not, are not very sophisticated and very flawed. The ideal solution is a digital upgrade in the form of an Access Control Keypad and Electric Strike lock. There are various systems available depending on your overall needs. A simple Access Control Keypad, such as the DK9520BL, can be purchased along with an Electric Strike Lock for well under $100.

The DK9520BL Access Control Keypad, and others like it, provide you with the flexibility to program 100 different user access codes. So, if the cleaning lady comes on Wednesday and the neighbor occasionally waters your plants, you can accommodate for that. Your manager code allows you to assign and control all of the users. Once the appropriate code is enters, the keypad activates the Electric Strike and unlocks the door.

The addition of an Access Control Keypad such as DK9520BL also offers you other conveniences. Say you have a night out with friends and return in the dark. There is no need to fumble for your key or try to see the lock in the dark. The DK9520BL is backlit, making it easy to identify the numbers and enter your designated code.

For less than $4 more, you can upgrade to the DK9522BL which works exactly the same, but has a 2 relay output. The DK9522BL enables you to assign user codes to your front door and maybe your security system, or kitchen door. Like the DK9520BL, it can be upgraded with other devices to suit your needs. The most common upgrade for both home and office is the Momentary Exit Button Switch. Depressing the button allows for quick emergency exit. Place it near the entrance or hidden from sight.

Access Control comes in many forms and you don’t need to stop at a single keypad. There are several more advanced systems that allow you the ability to screen visitors at your front door with two-way voice communication and provide access either via your home phone (even cordless) or a simple Interphone. Depending on your specific needs, the sky is the limit.

If you would like a free consultation or to find out more about a specific product, visit our website at http://www.iluselectronics.com/ or send us an email at sales@iluselectronics.com

Additional Applications for an Access Control Keypad

Vacation home access (no need for lost keys, more security)

Access to staff or maintenance people

Home Nursing Care

Access for pet sitters/dog walkers

Check out our new site!

2008-12-19T16:40:00.002-05:00

I am happy to announce that we have revamped our site and it is live! We're bringing in the New Year with better prices, fast and easy shopping and new tips and advice. Stay tuned for revisions to some of our older blog entries and all new interesting tid bits on access control, keypads, locks- you name it!

From the ILUS Electronics Family to yours, have a safe and happy holiday and a terrific New Year!

A How To: Access Control to 2 doors with 2 keypads working in Sync

2008-08-27T10:22:00.007-04:00

I’ve talked a lot about Access Control and how you can best incorporate it within your home or small business. More than anything, I want to educate people on the many benefits an Access Control system can bring to their home or office and how easy it is to purchase and install.

One setup I’ve always thought was critical to the small business environment is the two door system. While there are complex, advanced and costly systems that might provide access control to two doors, you can get most if not all features, for a modest price, by selecting two “Two Relay Output” Access Control keypads and set them up for two doors.

Check out this simple diagram and give it a shot.

With two Access Control Keypads you can:

Authorize accessibility at two entrances to different groups of people. Assign a set of codes via Door 1 and a set via Door 2.

The connection shown in this image guarantees that while the Door 1 keypad is being activated the Door 2 keypad is inhibited and vice versa.

A simple micro switch sensor mounted on the door frame will send the keypad the door status (open or close) and an alarm pacifier tone will indicate that the door is open

Install inside next to the exit door a low cost push button switch (key symbol) for egress or quick activation of the electric strike for fast exit.

Features and Benefits of the Access Control Keypads shown here:

Direct 12-24V AC/DC Operation

Over 100 Million Code Combinations

110 User Codes with 4-8 Digits

Single Lock or Inter-lock Application

Operates Fail-safe or Fail-secure Locking Device

Door Lock Inhibit Authorization

2 Independent Outputs programmable in Start/Stop (toggle) mode or timer mode from 1 to 999 seconds.

Door Forced Open and Propped-up Warnings

Auto or Manual Code Entry

Output Activation Announcer

Pacifier Tone Inhibit Control

Key Activation, Duress and Tamper Outputs

Door Auto Re-lock after Valid Access Prevents Tailgate Entry

Egress Input for Door Remote Triggering

All Features are Keyboard Programmable

Energy saving features: Keypads light intensity brightens when touching the keypad and dims to low light seconds after data entry is complete

Non-volatile Memory in Power Failure

Flush or Surface Mount

In case that master code is forgotten or lost you can reset to factory default code

And the best part the system shown here will cost you less than $150

How do I select an electric strike lock?

2008-08-13T17:53:00.008-04:00

You may have already noticed that I have spoken a lot about Access Control Systems. Well, these systems would be nowhere without the electric strike locks that work with them and are the ultimate guards of access. Since most folks are not trained locksmiths there might be a little anxiety about selecting the appropriate strike lock for.

It’s a pretty simple process with just a three points to cover. Review it and feel free to let me know if there is some lingering confusion.

1. Fail Safe or Fail Secure
Electric Strikes are divided into two main groups Fail Secure and Fail Safe

Fail Secure – The door or gate will be unlocked when Power is applied to it.

Fail Safe – Electricity is applied constantly to electric strike to keep the door or gate locked. To unlock the electricity is removed.

The Fail Secure electric strike is used primarily in private residences and small offices while the Fail Safe electric strike is used more in public buildings such as hotels, hospitals, and office buildings, securing an automatic unlock of the door in the event of a power failure.

2. AC or DC Electric Strike
Electric Strikes are also divided into two other groups: those that are operated by a DC (Direct Current) Voltage and those operated by AC (Alternating Current) power.
When AC power is applied to an electric strike it generates a buzzing noise for the duration that the voltage is applied, providing by default an indication to the person at the door that the door is open. When DC Voltage is applied to the electric strike it will generate a click and will remain open for the duration that the voltage is applied.

All Fail Safe Electric Strikes operate from DC power sources while for Fail Secure strikes the AC power is more common.

3. Mortise or Cylindrical
Mortise Locks are usually common to older home or buildings and can be identified by the key being above the handle (knob) and a long rectangular plate at the edge of the door. Cylindrical Locks are the most common and are identified by the key inside the Knob (or door handle). The center of the handle is inline with the center of the lock and strike.

What is PBX?

2008-07-24T14:19:00.002-04:00

Have you begun to research the best kind of phone system for your business? If you have, then the word PBX has definitely crossed your path. As with most technical tools, strange words or acronyms are a given. Don’t let it scare you away. Should a PBX system be right for your business, you’ll be glad you didn’t.

A modern PBX, or Private Branch Exchange, replaces archaic switchboards and allow business to save money and take advantage of key features that improve efficiency. You may have also seen PBX referred to as PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) or EPABX (Electronic Private Automatic Branch Exchange).

A PBX system basically creates the ability for many telephone lines (extensions) to connect to public lines via a smaller subset of lines. These are called trunk lines. Think of it like a tree trunk with many branches representing extensions for phone, fax or modem.

PBX is not to be confused with a key system where you must select a line for an outgoing call. Instead you dial a single digit escape code, probably “9” to connect to an available outgoing line. You’ve probably run into this if you’ve ever worked in an office or even a retail environment. With the growing number of PBX options, these products are becoming increasingly popular for both residential and commercial purposes.

Modern PBX systems include a tremendous number of features including call forwarding, conference calling and call transfer. You can also complement your PBX system with an Access Control System to control the entrances to your place of business. This will ensure that your employees are held accountable for who comes and goes, allowing you to focus on managing growth and success.

A comprehensive PBX Access Control System consists of a Door Phone or Door Phone Keypad, a PABX Exchange with Auto Attendant feature and an electric strike lock. Depending on your specific needs, an Intercom to Phone Adaptor can also be incorporated. The entire package can allow you to control access into your business directly from any extension. And, if you opt for the Door Phone Keypad, employees can each be assigned a code for access at the front door.

For more on PBX and the great tools, like Access Control, stay tuned.

Basic Access Control: Getting Started

2008-07-16T14:20:00.011-04:00

Many of my recent articles and blogs have concentrated on Access Control. I just feel that it is misunderstood and underappreciated. It’sbecome the last frontier of home improvement. Anything that combines securityand convenience is destined to this.

You may be like many and assume that selecting the appropriate system and installing it takes a PHD. I hate to sound clichéd, but fear not. There are many basic access control systems for the new user.

My personal favorite is an access control system is the basic keypad. For the busy American family this is a natural fit.Everyone has their own code and overall access is controlled by the heads of household. All access is generated via this keypad which operates an electric strike lock. To get started in access control, select your ideal keypad with style and operation in mind. I’ve selected three options that might fit the bill for you. All selections are easy to install and operate and include several energy saving features.

Stand Alone Universal Access Control Keypad

Ideal for residential and commercial alike

Eliminate the worry of your kid’s lost keys or ex-employees gaining access

Independently operates all electric strike locks on the market (12-24 DC orAC)

Can be operated by an Egress (panic exit button)

Ability to assign codes in single user or multi-user modes

Includes a door lock inhibit code

Stand Alone Universal Access Control Backlit Keypad

Ideal for residential and commercial alike

Eliminate the worry of your kid’s lost keys or ex-employees gaining access

Backlit keypad eases visibility for those late night arrivals

Independently operates all electric strike locks on the market (12-24 DC orAC)

Can be operated by an Egress (panic exit button)

Ability to assign codes in single user or multi-user modes

Includes a door lock inhibit code

Two Output Digital Access Control Keypad

Ideal for residential and commercial alike

Eliminate the worry of your kid’s lost keys or ex-employees gaining access

Backlit keypad eases visibility for those late night arrivals

Operates all electric strike locks on the market (12-24 DC or AC)

Two independent relay outputs that can work in synch to activate and deactivate dual door locks

Connects easily to a home security or burglar alarm system

Can be operated byan Egress (panic exit button)

Ability to assign codes in single user or multi-user modes

Includes a door lock inhibit code

Five Essentials for a Home Office

2008-07-11T16:21:00.010-04:00

Telephones, fax machines and the internet have made it possible for many of us to work from home. Whether we are self-employed or otherwise, there are a growing number of us who make only a 10-20 yard commute to our place of work. If you are self motivated and hard working, this is fantastic.

Several years of working out of my home have taught me well. I have learned the rules to being productive and the tools I need to get there. Depending on your field some of the tools may change, but there are five essentials to successfully running your home office.

1. Reliable Computer Setup
A computer probably seems pretty obvious. You can’t really telecommute without a computer. However, as you transition into the home office, remember that John from IT will no longer be available to run in and fix the glitches.

Invest in a good computer that has the capacity to do the work you need at the speed that is required of you. If your old Pentium has been with you for four or more years, chances are you need to upgrade. And, when you upgrade choose something you can adapt to quickly.

To really secure your success, find the software that best suits you and purchase it. Knock offs and pirated software will prove to be very frustrating. You can’t get the help you need direct from the vendor and you are at the mercy of the best copy you can snag. Just make the investment in yourself!

2. Telecommunications System
To truly run a professional and efficient home office, you need a separate telephone line and a solid telecommunications system. It goes hand in hand with your computer and is just as much of an extension of your physical self. In fact, the computer and telecommunications systems are so entwined that they can be integrated and controlled together. You’ll find SOHO PBX (I’ll talk more about this another time) and VoIP that can be controlled directly from your PC.

Long Distance services and phone companies aside, the equipment is the essential entity. Select equipment that will grow with you and serve you well in the long run. This is a vitality important consideration if you currently have or intend to eventually have others working with you from your home office.

The telecommunications system encompasses the physical phone, answering system and fax machine. Ideally, you incorporate your final selection into an Access Control System like the Phone Gate 102 for 2 Doors/Gates. The Phone Gate 102 is one of several such systems that allow you to control access at your home’s entrances with your phone. No more missing important business related house calls or deliveries.

When visitors arrive at your door and press on the Door Phone button, your office phone rings. You determine who is at the door and whether or not you want to give them access with the click of a button or run to the door to greet them yourself. Better yet, if you are out of the office visitors can leave you a voicemail message like any other telephone call.

3. File Storage
I am not referring to filing cabinets, because if you are smart, you’ll keep these to a minimum. In this day an age, we owe it to ourselves to go paperless. It’s better for the environment and it keeps the clutter down.

Since paperless is the goal, your computer will serve as the center of all information. So, back it up! External hard drives are readily available starting at about $50. Carbonite and Iron Mountain are two of the many online paid services that allow you to back up your computer daily. If you can expense it, or afford the fee of $50 per year (varies by vendor), this can be a great complement to any file back-up system you have at home.

4. Dependable Desk
As trivial as the desk may seem, you will become very intimate with yours. It must provide you with a sufficient work area and storage for the supplies you need close at hand. I searched high and low for my desk and it has served me well for the last few years.

Your desk and its placement within your office needs to take into consideration lighting, spatial planning with regards to electrical outlets and phone jacks, orientation to additional work areas and overall comfort. The bottom line here is: plan well. Measure your space and narrow it down to 2-3 options before you make your decision.

5. World Class Chair
Unless you are interested in keeping a chiropractor on speed dial, you will research and test until you find a chair that is suitable for your body and your office space. Not all office chairs are equal. I can’t recommend specific manufacturers, because in the end price and comfort are subjective. I can recommend that you take these factors into consideration:

· Wheels for mobility
· Comfortable material (Faux leather need not apply!)
· Back height for optimum support
· Adjustable height
· Adjustable arm rests
· Adjustable tilt
· Durability