ACS Installation Tips & Warnings
The following should be read prior to ACS installation as some actions void the warranty.
NOTE: An installation is NOT considered complete until a test code has been created on the end user’s SimpleAccess software account (in the software portal), and ALL devices have been successfully tested. If the install includes cards or mobile credentials, a test should be made to confirm the operability of these credentials on the installs’ supported devices.
NOTE: because install completion requires creating a location, registering the device, as well as creating and testing a user; the installer will need access to an end user’s account, or the Account Owner must register ACS and provide the installer with a credential to test devices. Instructions for this are in the document: Testing ACS Installation.
24 Volt Conversion: If converting to 24 volts, ensure the reader power jumper is properly set. ACS Panels come set by default for 12 volt power unless otherwise requested and pre-configured during the order process. A document outlining how to safely convert power may be found here.TIPS & WARNINGS
- Never wire the access reader while the system is powered on. This voids the warranty and will short the reader data ports, rendering it unusable.
- Always ensure 12 volt power is being run to the access readers (and not 24V).
- Use Surge Protected Outlet. Ensure the main voltage connection to the system enclosure and network equipment is connected to surge-protected outlet.
- Install a Diode with a Strike. For installs in which the relay is controlling electric strike power, to prevent premature relay failure due to EMF feedback, it is recommended to use a 100V/1A diode, installed close to the strike, and connected between the two strike lines. Relay Safety Sheet can be found here.
- For Elevator installs, the official Elevator company needs to be involved in the termination of wires inside the cab, and to the elevator system.
- Locking mechanism power wiring needs to use at least 18 AWG wire.
- Ensure installation follows every aspect of local code compliance
Regarding mag lock and fail safe installs:
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- per NFPA 101 2020, Chapter 7 paraphrase (full criteria in NFPA 101 CH7):
"7.1.9 Impediments to Egress
- Any device or alarm installed to restrict the improper use of a means of egress, and any device or system installed to monitor or record use of a means of egress, shall be designed and installed so that it cannot, even in case of failure, impede or prevent emergency use of such means of egress, unless otherwise provided in 7.2.1.6 and Chapters 18, 19, 22, and 23.
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Door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with approved electrical locking systems released by the operation of door hardware provided that the following conditions are met:
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- Operation of the hardware directly interrupts the power supply to the electric lock and unlocks the door assembly in the direction of egress.
- *Loss of power to the listed releasing hardware automatically electrically unlocks the door assembly in the direction of egress.
- Hardware for new installations is listed in accordance with ANSI/UL 294, Standard for Access Control System Units.
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7.2.1.6.2 Sensor-Release of Electrical Locking Systems
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- Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with sensor-release electrical locking system hardware provided that the following criteria are met:
- A sensor shall be provided on the egress side, arranged to electrically unlock the door leaf in the direction of egress upon detection of an approaching occupant.
- Door leaves shall automatically electrically unlock in the direction of egress upon loss of power to the sensor or to the part of the locking system that electrically locks the door leaves.
- Door locks shall be arranged to electrically unlock in the direction of egress from a manual release device complying with the following criteria:
- Where permitted in Chapters 11 through 43, door assemblies in the means of egress shall be permitted to be equipped with sensor-release electrical locking system hardware provided that the following criteria are met:
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- Per IBC 2018 chapter 10…
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- Sensor release of electric locking systems shall be permitted on doors located in the means of egress where installed and operated in accordance with the following criteria (full criteria in IBC chapter 10, the following is paraphrased)
- Loss of power to the lock or locking system shall automatically unlock the electric locks.
- The doors should be arranged to unlock from a manual unlocking device, readily accessible to occupants. When operated, the device shall result in direct interruption of power to the electric lock.
- Activation of building fire alarm system, where provided, shall automatically unlock the electric lock, and shall remain unlocked until the fire alarm system has been reset.
- Locking systems should be in compliance with UL 294."
- Sensor release of electric locking systems shall be permitted on doors located in the means of egress where installed and operated in accordance with the following criteria (full criteria in IBC chapter 10, the following is paraphrased)