How To Install Electronic Door Strikes

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If you want to increase security of your residence, consider installing an electronic strike plate. It will only open the door when the mechanism is triggered with another device such as a card. Unlike traditional door locks, which are installed inside the door, electronic strike plates are installed inside the door jamb.

Electronic strike plates can be purchased from most home improvement stores. You should be able to install them yourself; provided you feel at ease working with electricity and tools. Here are tips to install an electronic door strike plate.

Prepare to Work

For this project, you need:

  • work gloves
  • safety glasses
  • pencil
  • screwdriver
  • mounting screws
  • wire cutters
  • wire crimper
  • wire nuts
  • drill
  • electronic strike plate

Ensure the strike is compatible with the power supply. Electronic strike plates commonly run on two voltages: 12VDC (Volts Direct Current) or VAC (Volts Alternating Current) and 24 VDC or 24 VAC. The lock should also be compatible with your door jamb.

Drill the Holes

The mounting holes for electronic strikes are commonly larger than ones for traditional strike plates. Use the screwdriver to detach the screws of the old strike plate; taking care not to strip the screws.

Mark the shape of the new strike plate on the door. Don't forget to mark the depth and include wiring. The kit should come with a template, so hold it against the door jamb and trace around it. Drill the holes according to markings.

Install the Wiring

You will work with six wires: two from a power source, two from the control box relay, and two from the strike plate. Connect wiring to the lock from a power source. Some electronic strikes work on a single wire connection. Consult your owner's manual.

A standard wall transformer is ideal to power electronic door strikes. The power wiring from tranformers connects like headphone wires. Cut the tip of the two wires from the transformer and separate them.

Run the wiring through the door frame into the holes. Pigtail the wires and secure them with wire nuts. Use a wire crimper to close the pigtails, if needed.

Install the Plate

Insert the small failsafe screw, which can be configured to different settings. The failsafe is an added security measure if power fails.

Set the strike frame in the holes and tighten the screws with the screwdriver. Install the strike box and faceplate. Tighten the hardware.

Test the door. You shouldn't be able to open the door by hand. If the lock fails, or you don't trust your skill, contact a locksmith. To learn more, speak with someone like Southern California Security Centers.


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