Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

ELECTROMAGNETIC LOCK (EM LOCK)

Yes, ELOCK provides brackets like the EL-BK-G100, which are suitable for glass doors with thicknesses ranging from 9mm to 12mm. These brackets are designed to work with specific lock models, such as the ELOCK-B100 bolt action lock.
An electromagnetic lock (EM lock) is a security device that uses an electric current to create a magnetic force that holds a door closed. It consists of a magnet mounted on the door frame and a metal plate attached to the door. When power is supplied, the magnet keeps the door locked; when power is cut, the door unlocks. EM locks are commonly used in access control systems for offices, glass doors, and commercial buildings due to their reliability and ease of use.
Safety Reason (Very Important)!
EM locks are designed this way mainly for life safety:
In emergencies (fire, power failure)
Doors must unlock automatically
So people can exit quickly and safely

This is required in many building safety standards.
EM locks rely on electricity to lock, so when power is lost they automatically unlock β€” making them fail-safe for safety reasons.
β€’ 300lbs β†’ Cabinets / light doors
β€’ 600lbs β†’ Standard doors
β€’ 1200lbs β†’ Commercial use
β€’ 1500lbs β†’ High-security applications
Key indicators:
β€’ Stable resistance (~50 ohms)
β€’ Proper current consumption
β€’ Strong holding force
β€’ High-quality copper coil
Elock uses pure copper wire and precision-designed circuits for consistent performance.
Yes:
β€’ Glass doors β†’ Use U brackets
β€’ Double doors β†’ Use dual lock setup
Elock provides compatible brackets for all door types.
Simple Guide
1. Choose the Right Holding Force (Most Important)
This determines how strong the lock is.
300kg (600lbs) β†’ light-duty / office doors
500kg+ (1200lbs) β†’ high security / main entrance
External or high-security doors need stronger holding force.

2. Check Door Type
Glass door β†’ use glass door EM lock + U bracket
Wood / metal door β†’ standard EM lock
Sliding / special door β†’ may need shear lock
Door type affects model and accessories.

3. Check Door Direction
Inward opening β†’ standard installation
Outward opening β†’ need ZL bracket

4. Indoor or Outdoor Use
Indoor β†’ standard EM lock
Outdoor / gate β†’ use weatherproof model

5. System Compatibility
Make sure it matches:
Power supply (12V / 24V)
Access control system
Backup battery (recommended)

Choose an EM lock based on holding force, door type, and installation method β€” stronger locks for higher security, and the right brackets depending on your door setup.

ALARM SYSTEMS

Choosing the right door contact mainly depends on door type, environment, and installation method.

1. Check Door Type
Wooden / metal door β†’ standard door contact
Glass door β†’ use glass door contact (with adhesive or special mount)
Roller shutter β†’ use heavy-duty shutter sensor

2. Indoor or Outdoor
Indoor β†’ standard type
Outdoor / exposed area β†’ choose weatherproof (IP-rated)
πŸ‘‰ Important if exposed to rain or dust

3. Contact Type (NO / NC)
NC (Normally Closed) β†’ most common for security systems
NO (Normally Open) β†’ used for specific setups
πŸ‘‰ If unsure, choose NC

4. Gap Distance (Important)
πŸ‘‰ This is the distance between magnet & sensor
Small gap β†’ standard doors
Larger gap β†’ uneven or heavy doors

5. Installation Type
Surface mount β†’ easy to install
Flush mount β†’ cleaner look but requires drilling

Choose a door contact based on door type, environment (indoor/outdoor), contact type (usually NC), and installation method, making sure the sensor and magnet align properly.
A door contact sensor should be installed at the top of the door, where the door meets the frame.
πŸ‘‰ One part (sensor) is fixed on the door frame
πŸ‘‰ The other part (magnet) is fixed on the door leaf

Important Tips:
Place it close together when door is closed (usually within a few mm)
Keep both parts aligned properly
Avoid placing too low (can be damaged or misaligned)

For EM Lock Setup:
πŸ‘‰ Usually installed near the EM lock area (top of the door) for easier wiring and accurate detection
A door contact is a sensor used to detect whether a door is open or closed.
It consists of two parts:-
A magnet
A sensor (reed switch)

πŸ‘‰ When the door is closed, both parts are aligned and the system reads it as closed
πŸ‘‰ When the door opens, they separate and send a signal that the door is open

Where it’s used?
Access control systems
Alarm systems
Security monitoring

A door contact is a sensor that monitors the open and closed status of a door for security purposes.
A roller shutter sensor is a device used to detect whether a roller shutter door is open or closed.

πŸ‘‰ It works like a door contact but is designed for heavy-duty shutters (e.g., shops, warehouses).

How it works (simple):
One part is fixed on the shutter
One part is fixed on the frame
When the shutter closes β†’ sensor detects it
When opened β†’ signal change
Yes, it is compatible with most alarm panels. When the shutter is opened or tampered with, the sensor sends a signal to the alarm system, which can trigger an alert or siren.
Door contact sensors are devices used to detect whether a door is open or closed.

They usually consist of two parts:
A magnet
A sensor (reed switch)

πŸ‘‰ When the door is closed, the magnet keeps the circuit closed
πŸ‘‰ When the door opens, the circuit breaks and sends a signal
A device that provides:
β€’ Loud alarm sound
β€’ Visual flashing alert
Used for emergency warning and intrusion detection.

TRANSFORMERS & VOLTAGE STABILIZERS

Transformers typically use enameled copper wire (also called magnet wire).

What is Enameled Copper Wire?
Copper wire coated with a thin insulation layer (enamel)
Allows tight winding without short circuit
Designed for high temperature and electrical use

For Elock:
Elock uses high-purity enameled copper wire for transformer windings.

πŸ‘‰ This ensures:
Efficient power transmission
Good insulation and safety
Better heat resistance
Long-lasting performance
A transformer is a device that changes electrical voltage from one level to another (e.g., from 240V to 12V).

πŸ‘‰ Simple: it steps voltage up or down to the level your devices need.

Why is it Important?
Ensures devices get the correct voltage
Prevents damage from high voltage
Makes systems safe and stable
Essential part of many power supplies
Transformer:
Function: Changes voltage level
Example: 240V β†’ 12V
Used to match the voltage needed by devices

Stabilizer:
Function: Keeps voltage stable
Example: Prevents 240V from fluctuating to 200V or 260V
Used to protect devices from voltage spikes or drops
A transformer is used to convert the main power supply into the required voltage for devices such as electromagnetic locks, access control systems, and industrial machines like CNC or milling equipment. A stabilizer ensures that the voltage remains constant and protects equipment from power fluctuations, surges, or drops. In machining applications, stabilizers are especially important to maintain precision, prevent machine errors, and avoid damage to sensitive control boards. Together, they ensure reliable performance, safety, and longer equipment lifespan.

POWER SUPPLIES

Unstable voltage can cause:
β€’ System failure
β€’ Reduced lifespan
β€’ Malfunction
A power supply converts electricity (AC from mains) into the correct DC voltage (e.g., 12V) to run devices like EM locks, access control systems, and sensors.

πŸ‘‰ Simple: it powers your system so everything can work properly.
It ensures stable and continuous operation of all components.
What features should I look for?
β€’ Overload protection
β€’ Short-circuit protection
β€’ Backup battery support
β€’ Adjustable voltage
Elock power supplies are designed with multiple protection features for reliability.
β€’ Overload protection
β€’ Short-circuit protection
β€’ Backup battery support
β€’ Adjustable voltage
Elock power supplies are designed with multiple protection features for reliability.
🧠 Step-by-Step Guide (Simple)
1️⃣ Check Voltage Requirement

Most systems use:
12V DC (most common)
Some use 24V DC

πŸ‘‰ Always match your:
EM lock
Controller

2️⃣ Calculate Total Current (VERY IMPORTANT)
Add up all devices:
Example:
EM Lock = 500mA
Controller = 200mA
Others = 100mA
πŸ‘‰ Total = 800mA
Now add buffer:
πŸ‘‰ 800mA Γ— 1.5 = 1.2A
βœ… So choose at least 12V 1.5A or 2A power supply

3️⃣ Number of Doors / Devices
1 door β†’ small power supply (1–3A)
Multiple doors β†’ higher capacity (5A–10A or more)
πŸ‘‰ Never overload one unit

4️⃣ Choose Type of Power Supply
πŸ”Ή Basic Power Supply:
Simple setup
No backup
Low cost

πŸ”Ή Access Control Power Supply (Recommended)
Built-in:
Battery backup
Relay control
Protection circuit

πŸ‘‰ Best for:
Offices
Commercial setups

5️⃣ Check for Battery Backup πŸ”‹
πŸ‘‰ Very important for EM lock (fail-safe)

Without backup:
Power cut β†’ door unlocks

With backup:
Door stays locked during blackout

6️⃣ Safety & Protection Features
Look for:
Short circuit protection
Overload protection
Surge protection

πŸ‘‰ Protects your:
EM lock
Controller
Entire system

⚠️ Common Mistakes
❌ Using wrong voltage (12V vs 24V)
❌ Not enough current (system unstable)
❌ No buffer (power supply overheats)
❌ No battery backup (security risk)

🧠 Simple Rule to Remember:
πŸ‘‰ Match voltage + oversize current + include backup
Yes, one power supply can support multiple devices as long as the total current of all devices added together is less than the power supply’s capacity, with an extra 20–30% buffer for safe operation.
β€’ Check current (A) of each device
β€’ Add them together
β€’ Choose power supply higher than total (add 20–30% buffer)
Not always required, but highly recommended.

Without battery:
Power failure = system stops working
Doors may unlock or stop functioning
With battery:
System keeps running during power outage
Doors remain secure and operational

KEY SWITCHES

A key switch is important because it provides a secure, manual way to control a system using a physical key β€” especially when other access methods are unavailable or unsuitable.

πŸ” Key Reasons Why It’s Important
1️⃣ Backup Access (Very Critical)

πŸ‘‰ If your system fails:
Card not working
Fingerprint error
Controller issue
βœ… Key switch allows manual override to unlock the door

2️⃣ Emergency Control
πŸ‘‰ In urgent situations:
System malfunction
Need immediate access
βœ… Authorized person can quickly unlock using key

3️⃣ Higher Security Control
πŸ‘‰ Unlike exit buttons:
Anyone can press a button
BUT key switch requires a physical key

βœ… Only authorized personnel can:
Unlock door
Enable/disable system

4️⃣ Prevent Unauthorized Operation
Used in:
Server rooms
Control panels
Restricted areas

πŸ‘‰ Ensures:
Only key holders can operate

5️⃣ Industrial & Machinery Safety
πŸ‘‰ Common in machines:
Start/stop machines
Prevent accidental activation

βœ… Adds a layer of:
Safety
Control
Accountability

⚠️ What Happens Without It?
❌ No backup if system fails
❌ Hard to override during emergency
❌ Lower security control
❌ Higher risk in restricted areas

🧠 Simple Summary:
πŸ‘‰ Key switch = secure manual backup + control
A key switch allows authorized manual control of access systems.
It is commonly used for:
β€’ Emergency override
β€’ Restricted access areas
A key switch is a security device that uses a physical key to control access β€” similar to a normal lock, but instead of directly locking the door, it sends a signal to the system.

βš™οΈ How It Works
Insert key into the switch
Turn the key
The switch triggers an action

πŸ‘‰ In access control systems, it usually:
Unlocks the door
Overrides the system
Acts as a manual backup

πŸ” Common Use Cases:
1️⃣ Emergency Override
If system fails or no power
πŸ‘‰ Use key to unlock door manually

2️⃣ Backup Access Method
When:
Card not working
Fingerprint fails
πŸ‘‰ Key switch gives an alternative way in

3️⃣ Restricted Access Control:
Only authorized person with key can:
Open door
Enable/disable system

4️⃣ Industrial / Machinery Control:
Used to:
Turn machines ON/OFF
Prevent unauthorized operation

🧠 Types of Key Switch:
Momentary (spring return)
β†’ Turn and release (like a doorbell)
Maintained (stay position)
β†’ Turn and stays ON/OFF

⚠️ Important Difference:
πŸ‘‰ Key switch β‰  door lock
Door lock β†’ physically locks door
Key switch β†’ controls the system electrically

🎯 Simple Summary:
πŸ‘‰ Key switch = manual control using a key
πŸ‘‰ Used as backup, override, or extra security layer

EMERGENCY DOOR RELEASE

An emergency door release (also called a break glass unit) is a safety device used to immediately unlock a door during emergencies.
πŸ‘‰ It is commonly installed together with:
EM locks
Access control systems

πŸ‘‰ Emergency door release ensures:
Immediate exit during:
Fire
Power/system failure
Panic situations

β€’ Resettable emergency release (reusable)
β€’ Break glass units (traditional)
It ensures compliance with fire safety regulations and allows safe evacuation. When you press it, it cuts off power to the lock (like an EM lock) so the door can be opened immediately.
β€’ Prevents people from being trapped
β€’ Simple and reliable (usually a push or break-glass button)
β€’ Unlocks the door in emergencies (fire, power failure, system fault)
β€’ Allows people to exit quickly and safely
β€’ Overrides the access control system
Office buildings
Commercial shops
Factories
Access-controlled entrances
πŸ‘‰ Usually installed near the exit door
In normal condition β†’ door is locked
During emergency β†’ press or break the glass
This cuts power to the EM lock
πŸ‘‰ Door unlocks instantly

EXIT BUTTONS

Exit buttons are used to unlock doors from the inside in access control systems. There are several types depending on usage, hygiene, and environment.

πŸ”Ή 1️⃣ Push Button (Most Common)
πŸ‘‰ Physical press to unlock door
Stainless steel or plastic
Durable and affordable
Widely used in offices & shops

βœ… Best for:
General indoor use
Standard access control systems

2️⃣ Touchless / No-Touch Button
πŸ‘‰ Uses infrared sensor (wave hand to activate)
No physical contact needed
More hygienic

βœ… Best for:
Hospitals
Clean environments
Post-COVID preference

3️⃣ Wireless Exit Button
πŸ‘‰ Sends signal without wiring
Easy installation
Less cabling work

βœ… Best for:
Retrofit projects
Difficult wiring locations

4️⃣ Key Switch Exit
πŸ‘‰ Use a key to unlock
Higher security
Only authorized users can exit

βœ… Best for:
Restricted areas
Server rooms / control rooms

5️⃣ Emergency Exit Button (Break Glass)
πŸ‘‰ Press or break glass to unlock
Instant release during emergency
Often required by safety regulations

βœ… Best for:
Emergency situations
Fire safety compliance

🧠 How to Choose (Simple Guide):
Normal office β†’ Push button
Hygiene needed β†’ Touchless
No wiring β†’ Wireless
High security β†’ Key switch
Safety compliance β†’ Emergency release


Yes, there are weatherproof exit buttons available.

We offer models that are IP67 rated, meaning they are fully dustproof and can withstand being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.

They come in both touch and touchless versions, making them suitable for outdoor and wet environments.
How It Works (Step-by-Step):
1️⃣ Door is Locked
EM lock is powered
πŸ‘‰ Door stays locked

2️⃣ Button is Pressed (or Sensor Activated)
User presses the button
πŸ‘‰ Or waves hand (for touchless type)

3️⃣ Signal is Sent
Exit button sends a signal to:
Access controller or
Directly cuts power (in simple setup)

4️⃣ Lock is Released
Power to EM lock is interrupted
πŸ‘‰ Door unlocks instantly

5️⃣ Door Locks Back
After a few seconds (if using controller)
πŸ‘‰ Power resumes β†’ door locks again

🧠 Simple Logic:
πŸ‘‰ Press button β†’ cut power β†’ unlock door

Normal office β†’ Push button
Hygiene needed β†’ Touchless
No wiring β†’ Wireless
High security β†’ Key switch
Safety compliance β†’ Emergency release

INSTALLATION PROBLEMS

An EM lock is normally powered ON to stay locked, so wiring is straightforward.
Basic Connection

πŸ‘‰ Connect power supply directly to EM lock:

Power Supply (+) β†’ EM Lock (+)
Power Supply (–) β†’ EM Lock (–)

πŸ‘‰ When power is on β†’ lock is engaged
πŸ‘‰ When power is cut β†’ lock releases

πŸ”§With Exit Button / Access Control
To control unlocking, you add a switch in between:
Connect exit button (NC contact) in series with the power line
When pressed β†’ it cuts power β†’ EM lock unlocks

πŸ”§ Typical Setup Includes:
Power supply
EM lock
Exit button
Access control device
Emergency break glass

Important Tips:
Use correct voltage (12V or 24V)
Ensure stable power supply
Use backup battery for safety

Connect the EM lock directly to the power supply (+ to +, – to –), and use an exit button or access control to cut the power when unlocking is needed.
1. Mount the EM Lock
Fix the EM lock body on the door frame (top)
Make sure it is secure and level

2. Install the Armature Plate
Fix the armature plate on the door leaf
It should align perfectly with the EM lock
Leave a slight flexibility (using rubber washer) so it can sit flat when locked.

5. Test the System
Power on β†’ door should lock firmly
Press exit button β†’ door should unlock immediately

Tips
Use correct bracket (ZL, L, U) depending on door type
Ensure stable power supply
Avoid loose installation

Install the EM lock on the door frame, fix the armature plate on the door, align both properly, connect to power and access control, and test to ensure it locks and unlocks correctly.

3. Check Alignment
Close the door and ensure:
EM lock and plate touch fully
No gap or misalignment

This is very important for strong holding force.

4. Wiring
Connect the EM lock to:
Power supply (12V/24V)
Access control system / exit button / emergency release
🧩 What You Need First:
EM Lock (magnetic lock)
Access Controller (card / fingerprint / keypad)
Power Supply (usually 12V DC)
Exit Button (optional but recommended)
Door Sensor (optional)

⚑ Step-by-Step Wiring:
1️⃣ Connect Power Supply to EM Lock
Connect + (positive) from power supply β†’ EM Lock
Connect – (negative) from power supply β†’ through controller relay
πŸ‘‰ This is important:
EM lock is fail-safe (needs power to lock)

2️⃣ Connect Access Controller Relay
Use the controller’s COM and NC (Normally Closed)
πŸ‘‰ Why NC?
Because:
Power flows normally β†’ door stays locked
When access is granted β†’ power cuts β†’ door unlocks

3️⃣ Connect Exit Button
Wire exit button to controller
When pressed β†’ it tells controller to cut power to lock
πŸ‘‰ So you can exit without card/fingerprint

4️⃣ (Optional) Connect Door Sensor
Connect to controller input
Detects:
Door open too long
Door forced open

5️⃣ Power Up & Test
Turn on power
Try:
Scan card / fingerprint
Press exit button
πŸ‘‰ You should hear:
β€œclick” β†’ door unlocks β†’ then locks back

🧠 Super Simple Logic (Remember This):
πŸ‘‰ Power ON = Locked
πŸ‘‰ Power OFF = Unlocked

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
❌ Using NO instead of NC (door won’t lock properly)
❌ Wrong voltage (check 12V or 24V)
❌ Connecting lock directly to controller (burn risk)
❌ No backup battery (door unlocks during blackout)

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip (Good for Your Customers):
If using full system, recommend:
Access controller with built-in relay + timer
Power supply with battery backup

Setting up an exit button is simple β€” it just needs to send a signal to unlock the door.
Method 1: With Access Controller (Recommended)
πŸ”Œ Steps:
1️⃣ Locate Controller Terminals
Look for:
COM (Common)
NO (Normally Open) or NC (Normally Closed)

2️⃣ Connect Exit Button Wires
Connect button wires to:
COM + NO (most common setup)

3️⃣ Connect Controller to EM Lock
Controller relay controls the lock
πŸ‘‰ When button is pressed β†’ controller releases lock

4️⃣ Set Unlock Time
Configure controller:
Usually 3–5 seconds

5️⃣ Test
Press button
πŸ‘‰ Door unlocks β†’ then locks back automatically

βœ… Best for:
Offices
Shops
Full access control systems

Method 2: Direct to EM Lock (Basic Setup)
πŸ”Œ Steps:
1️⃣ Wire in Series (Power Line)
Power Supply (–) β†’ Exit Button β†’ EM Lock (–)

2️⃣ Use NC (Normally Closed)
Ensures:
Power flows normally β†’ door locked
Press button β†’ power cuts β†’ unlock

3️⃣ Test
Press button
πŸ‘‰ Power cuts β†’ door unlocks

❌ Limitations:
No timer
No access control
Less secure

🧠 Simple Logic:
πŸ‘‰ Press button β†’ signal/cut power β†’ door unlocks

⚠️ Important Tips:
Install button inside the room (for exit)
Mount at easy reach height
Use good quality wiring
Check voltage compatibility (12V / 24V)

🎯 When to Use Which?
Want security + control β†’ Use controller βœ…
Just simple unlock β†’ Direct wiring

GENERAL ACCESS CONTROL QUESTIONS

An access control system is a security setup that controls who can enter or exit a building or room.
It typically includes:
β€’ Locking device (e.g. electromagnetic lock)
β€’ Access control panel (card, PIN, fingerprint)
β€’ Exit button
β€’ Power supply
β€’ Emergency release
These components work together to ensure both security and safe access.
A standard system includes:
β€’ Electromagnetic lock (EM lock) β†’ Keeps the door secured
β€’ Access control device β†’ Controls entry (card, PIN, biometric)
β€’ Exit button β†’ Allows users to exit safely
β€’ Power supply β†’ Provides stable power
β€’ Emergency door release β†’ For fire safety compliance
Elock offers all these components, designed to integrate seamlessly.
β€’ The power supply provides electricity to the system
β€’ The EM lock stays locked when powered
β€’ The access control system grants entry
β€’ The exit button cuts power to unlock the door
This creates a safe and efficient access control system.
For most offices, the recommended setup is:
β€’ 600lbs/1200lbs EM lock
β€’ Card or PIN access control
β€’ Exit button
β€’ Backup power supply

This ensures:
β€’ Strong security
β€’ Easy user access
β€’ Safety during emergencies

TROUBLESHOOTING & COMMON PROBLEMS

Fail-safe = unlock when no power (for safety)
Fail-secure = stay locked when no power (for security)

A fail-safe lock will unlock when power is lost. This is commonly used for safety reasons, especially on emergency exits, so people can leave the building easily during situations like a fire or power outage. EM locks are typically fail-safe.

A fail-secure lock, on the other hand, will remain locked when power is lost. This is used where security is more important, such as restricted areas, because the door stays locked even during a power failure. Electric strikes are often fail-secure.
Key Difference (Most Important):
EM Lock β†’ uses magnetic force to hold the door
Electric Strike β†’ uses a mechanical latch to lock/unlock

Choose EM Lock if:
Glass door or frameless door
High traffic area
Need fail-safe (fire safety)
Want easier installation
πŸ‘‰ EM locks are strong and ideal for glass or high-traffic doors

Choose Electric Strike if:
Wooden or metal door
Want to keep existing lock
Need fail-secure (stay locked during power cut)
Budget is lower
πŸ‘‰ Electric strikes are more cost-effective and work with existing locks

EM lock is better for glass doors and safety (fail-safe), while electric strike is better for traditional doors and higher security during power loss (fail-secure).
Common causes include:
β€’ Insufficient power supply
β€’ Misalignment of armature plate
β€’ Incorrect installation
β€’ Weak holding force
β€’ Wiring issues
Elock locks are designed with stable current and strong magnetic force to minimize these issues.
Check the following:
β€’ Power supply output
β€’ Wiring connections
β€’ Controller settings
β€’ Lock compatibility
Most issues are caused by wiring or power instability.
Possible reasons:
β€’ Loose installation
β€’ Vibration from door movement
β€’ Uneven contact surface
πŸ‘‰ Ensure proper alignment and firm mounting.
β€’ Overload (too many devices connected)
β€’ Voltage fluctuation
β€’ Poor quality components
Elock power supplies include overload and short-circuit protection to prevent such failures.

WHY CHOOSE ELOCK?

At Elock, we believe customers are not just buying a product β€” they are buying reliability, quality, and peace of mind.

Our focus goes beyond hardware. We ensure that every product delivers consistent performance, so you don’t have to worry about failures or complications after installation.

From purchase to after-sales support, we aim to provide a smooth and worry-free experience, giving you confidence in every project.
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