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

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