As a part of our “What is Senseon” series, we interviewed Senseon Research and Design Engineer, Lucas Nielsen about the role the hub plays in the Senseon system.

For this final installment of What is Senseon, Lucas sat down with us again to discuss the locks and how they connect and function within the Senseon system as well as access control systems with non-Senseon components.

How do Senseon locks connect to other access control systems?

Since these locks are relay-driven devices, all you need to do is connect DC voltage to the trigger pin to unlock it. Once you remove power from the trigger pin, it returns to the locked position.

The same applies to the two status outputs; if the status is active, then it just immediately closes to ground, allowing power to flow through. If it’s inactive, then the status opens, same as any door sensor a security integrator might use inside a building.

Can you give us an estimate of how many doors open and close operations a controller board can handle? And how is this calculated?

In applications where a user is using Senseon components, a user can open 15 openings per reader. But, in applications in which Senseon locks integrate with other control boards, it’s all dependent on the number of input and output relays. We can look at the Mercury MR16OUT relay board as an example; this board uses 16 relay outputs to control up to 16 openings.

How do you get the system programmed to answer protocols and commands?

When using a Senseon reader and hub, users program the system through the reader with an administrator card. With integrated access control systems, the software associated with the controllers lay out the rules for the system. For example, if card “X” is presented then relay number four connected to the 10EL will be activated for five seconds. Once the timer runs out, the control board removes power from the lock, and it returns to the locked position.

Let’s talk about the 5EL. What is a distinct feature of the 5EL?

One big thing that sets the 5EL apart is the ease of installation. With its primary application being for use with sliding cabinet doors, you don’t need to install any burdensome catches on your cabinet door. All that is required is a small pocket in the door to engage the lock. Users still have the option of using a screw-mounted catch or an adhesive catch for glass doors.

As for integrating it into another system, it’s just like an entry door lock that you might use.  Just apply the voltage to it, and it goes into the unlock position.

What about the 10EL, what are some of its distinguishing features?

What I would say above all is the size of the lock. It’s one of the smallest and strongest locks on the market for electronic locks – providing 250lbs. of breakforce in its compact design.

Another thing that sets this lock apart is that it is built spec for easy installation into new or existing cabinetry with a tool like an installation jig. And for even more versatility, the 10EL drawer catch gives users the freedom to use this lock in a variety of applications including cabinet drawers.

How much power do these locks require?

Powered by 5-24 volts of DC power, the locks consume about 100 milliamps of power for roughly 200 milliseconds when transitioning from locked to unlocked. When inactive, the locks remain in a sleep mode that uses less than one milliamp of electricity consistently in what we call the microamp range power.

For more information on integrating Senseon’s electronic cabinet locking systems into your access control system, contact our team of experts today.