How an electromagnetic lock works: general information, self-installation process

The electromagnetic lock is one of the most reliable and easy-to-use locking devices. It is distinguished by its compactness, simplicity of design and can serve for a long period. To protect your apartment from unexpected guests, you need to know how an electromagnetic lock works. Its installation can be done by yourself or with the help of qualified specialists.

General information

Before you buy an electromagnetic lock, you need to study in detail all the information about this device. With its help, you can choose the optimal model that will work well for many years.

Classification of electromagnetic locks

Experts prefer to divide all electromagnetic locks according to the type of work and the method of control. Both of these classifications combine devices that share a number of common characteristics. All this helps consumers choose the right option that will work as efficiently as possible and reliably protect a residential or office space.

By type of work, locks are divided into the following types:

1. Retainers. Such structures are usually made overhead and can be installed on the bottom, side or top of the door. The latter option is considered the most correct, since it practically does not reduce the doorway.
2. Shear. This type of locks does not cut into the door frame, but into the door itself (as a rule, this is done in the middle). They do not reduce the size of the opening and have an attractive appearance. The device does not work directly, but on the shift of the tongue, which reliably locks the door.

In addition to this classification, there is one more. It allows you to select models of locks equipped with special sensors that help control the entire structure.

According to the control method, the following varieties are distinguished:

1. With the presence of electronics. The principle of operation of these locks is based on the closure of the magnetic contact sensor, which should be located on the right side of the door frame. A permanent magnet is installed on the opposite side to help keep the door closed.
2. No electronics. Such structures are distinguished by a high degree of reliability, therefore, they are used in access control systems and rooms that provide for access only to certain persons.

Components

In order to better understand the principle of operation of an electromagnetic lock and install it yourself, you need to decide on a set of mechanisms. All additional components are relatively inexpensive and can be found in any specialty store. The complete set should include the following items:

1. Locking device. It is sold together with a counter metal strip and a set of wires that will be used to connect to a power source.
2. Controller. This element of the overall structure is intended to control all of its components. Through it, all parts of the mechanism are connected.
3. Information reader. It is a code panel that is used to open doors. A special card or electronic key fob, as well as a secret digital code can be used as a key.
4. A set of keys. In most cases, an electromagnetic lock is supplemented with one main key and several additional ones (from 3 to 6 pieces). The main element is pre-programmed for a certain opening frequency and is used to adjust the settings of all structural details.
5. Buttons for leaving an apartment or office. These small but very important elements are installed indoors and help to leave the room without the use of keys.
6. Power Supply. As a rule, this device is supplemented by several auxiliary batteries, which ensure the continuous operation of the locking device. The power source can be a standard electrical network with a voltage of 220 volts.
7. Wiring. It is used to connect all parts of the structure.

In addition to the basic set of elements, the lock can be equipped with a door closer or video intercom. The first device ensures smooth closing of doors, and the second one makes it possible to see and hear the visitor.

Advantages and disadvantages

An electromagnetic lock, like any other device, has not only positive but also negative sides. If all of them are taken into account, then you can choose the optimal settings that will reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment.

Among the advantages are the following:

1. Durability. Such a lock is able to reliably protect a room for a long time. There are no moving parts in it that can give in to friction and become unusable. Because of this feature, the device rarely breaks down and does not require any preventive measures.
2. Versatility. Such a device can be installed on almost all types of doors (plastic, wood, metal, glass).
3. Reliability. Unlike mechanical locking devices, electromagnetic ones cannot be opened using drilling or a pick.
4. Protection. Such a device cannot be hacked by force, since this would require an effort of several hundred kilograms.
5. Ease of use. The lock can be easily assembled and repaired in a short time.
6. Practicality. Weather and temperature conditions, as well as other external factors, do not affect the operation of the mechanism, so it can be installed not only indoors, but also outdoors.
7. Availability. This type of door lock is notable for its low cost, which makes it possible to install it even in the apartments of people with little financial capabilities.
8. Remote control. All modern models are equipped with a system that allows you to open and close doors from a short distance from them.

Despite the large number of advantages, the device also has several disadvantages. They must be taken into account before purchasing a product and starting its installation. Otherwise, you can face insurmountable difficulties that will bring many inconveniences to people's lives.

Main disadvantages:

1. Dependence on the power grid. Not all models are equipped with batteries, so the doors will open automatically in the event of a power outage.
2. Price. The price for an electromagnetic lock is slightly higher than for a mechanical one.
3. Appearance. Most users find the device less attractive than a standard lock.

Principle of operation

The electromagnetic lock has a simple device, which has an easy-to-understand principle of operation. It can be understood not only by an experienced person, but also by a beginner.

The principle of operation of the structure:

1. At the moment the voltage is applied from the mains, a current is generated in the winding of the device.
2. The closed armature (mating plate) and the core create a circuit in which a magnetic field is generated.
3. With its help, the door is securely held in the closed position.
4. As soon as a key is applied to the information reader or a code is entered, the magnetic circuit is broken.
5. The counter plate is squeezed out and the door opens instantly.

Self-installation

Despite the initial simplicity of this process, it is necessary to follow the installation procedure and take into account its features. Only in this case, you can quickly complete the work and achieve the desired result.

Required materials and tools

In order to properly perform the installation of the locking device, you need to correctly select all the necessary elements and prepare the tools in advance. These simple preparatory activities will help you avoid distractions during work and not waste valuable time searching for a particular item.

To install an electromagnetic lock, you will need:

• locking device with a complete set of additional components;
• electric drill;
• screwdriver;
• a set of drills ranging in size from 2.5 to 12 millimeters;
• screwdrivers of different sizes;
• pliers;
• nippers;
• hammer;
• fastening material;
• building level;
• hammer;
• a simple pencil or marker.

Procedure

After completing the preparatory stage, you can start installing the electromagnetic lock. To do this, you will need to perform certain actions that require knowledge and skills in this matter.

Installation of the lock is carried out in compliance with the following sequence of actions:

1. A suitable place for installation is selected (vertical or horizontal part of the door frame).
2. The main part of the device is applied to it and the place of attachment of the counter plate is outlined.
3. Using an electric drill and a drill of a suitable diameter, holes are made for fasteners.
4. The bolts are padded with washers and the striker is firmly fixed to the door frame.
5. The main part of the device is applied to the installed anchor and the points of attachment of the mounting plate are outlined.
6. It is detached from the structure using a special key, which is included in the kit with an electromagnetic lock.
7. Holes are drilled in the door frame to secure the mounting plate.
8. Then this element is carefully installed in the selected place.
9. At the next stage of work, all wires are taken out into a special mounting compartment.
10. The locking device is connected to a power source and tested for functionality.
11. At the very end of the installation, adjustment and adjustment of the structure is performed.
12. If desired, a door closer is installed and the speed of its closing is adjusted.

Control scheme

Manufacturers make management as simple and straightforward as possible. This whole process is carried out through a controller, which can perform the following functions:

• supply of power required to fix the locking mechanism;
• transmission of a signal to facilitate door opening;
• key programming;
• changing the access code.

During the first test of the installed device, you need to configure all the working keys that will be used in everyday life. To do this, bring all the electric keys to the controller one by one. After that, the device switches to the jumper recording mode and programs them. After completing this operation, the controller is put into operation mode. It is important to take into account that after setting all the keys, the lock will automatically lock. From this moment it will be possible to open it only with the help of the programmed elements.

An electromagnetic lock is a reliable locking device that has a number of advantages. With its help, you can not only protect your property, but also block access to the premises for unwanted persons. With proper installation and compliance with all operating rules, you can maximize the life of the device and avoid any problems.