Have you ever wondered what the term “fail secure normally open” means? While it might sound like a complicated concept, it is essential to understand for anyone interested in security systems. In simple terms, it refers to a type of system that is designed to stay open in case of a power failure or network outage. This feature ensures that people can exit a building quickly in case of an emergency, but it also has its downsides, which we’ll explore later in this article.
Nowadays, many organizations, both large and small, rely on security systems to ensure their buildings, assets, and employees are safe from harm. However, understanding how these systems function is not always easy, as there are many different types of security solutions on the market. Fail secure normally open is an expression you’ll often hear from security experts as it refers to a significant feature of most access control systems. By comprehending this concept, you’ll know what to expect from a security system and be able to plan and implement an effective security plan for your organization.
Whether you are a small business owner or a facility manager, it’s essential to understand the inner workings of any security system you rely on. Fail secure normally open is just one of the many terms you should familiarize yourself with, and this article will help lay out the advantages and potential concerns associated with this type of system. Keep reading to learn more!
Understanding Fail-Safe and Fail-Secure Mechanisms
Fail-safe and fail-secure mechanisms are commonly used in security systems to prevent unauthorized access. These two terms refer to the way a security system operates in different scenarios. Understanding how these mechanisms work can help you make an informed decision when choosing a security system for your business or home.
Fail-safe systems are designed to “fail open,” meaning that when the power goes out or there is a malfunction, the system unlocks and allows free access. This type of system is commonly used in emergency exits and during fire emergencies, where people need to evacuate quickly and without hindrance. Fail-safe systems are also used in some high-security facilities where the risk of a hostage situation is high. By opening the doors, the potential for harm to the hostages is reduced.
- Fail-Safe Mechanisms:
- Unlock doors during power outages or malfunctions
- Used during emergencies to allow quick access from the outside, hindering escape from the inside
- Reduces the risk of harm in high-security situations such as hostage situations
Fail-secure systems, on the other hand, are designed to “fail closed,” meaning that when the power goes out or there is a malfunction, the system locks down and does not allow any access. This type of system is commonly used in areas where high-security is required, such as banks, data centers, or government facilities. Fail-secure systems are also ideal for preventing unauthorized access and in areas where people should not be able to enter, such as a pharmaceutical lab, where access to dangerous chemicals is restricted.
Both fail-safe and fail-secure security systems have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the scenario. Choosing the right system for your business or home requires careful consideration of the risks and benefits of each system.
It’s essential to note that some security systems can operate both fail-safe and fail-secure mechanisms, depending on the situation and the user’s needs.
When choosing a security system, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Fail-Safe System | Fail-Secure System | Dual System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Situation | Unlock doors | Remain locked down and secure | Depends on the situation and user needs |
| High-Security Area | Not ideal | Highly recommended | Depends on the level of security needed |
| Access Control | Open access | Restricted access | Depends on the area and user needs |
Choosing the right security system requires you to have a clear understanding of your security needs and audience. Whether you need a fail-safe or fail-secure system, choosing the right system can help keep your home and business safe.
The Importance of Fail-Secure Systems in the Security Industry
Fail-Secure Systems are essential in maintaining the security of buildings and facilities. These systems are designed to ensure that in the event of a power failure, the access control system will remain locked and secure, and unauthorized individuals will not be able to gain entry. Fail-Secure systems have been widely adopted in the security industry as a way to prevent criminals from bypassing electronic access control systems.
- A fail-secure system can also improve a building’s fire and life safety system. Fire codes often require certain doors to be locked because they contain flammable materials or hazardous chemicals, and Fail-Secure systems can help ensure these doors stay locked during emergency situations.
- In a Fail-Secure system, the lock remains locked when there is no power. This means that an individual cannot force the door open or manipulate the lock in any way. This added layer of security is critical in high-security facilities such as government buildings, laboratories, or data centers.
- Fail-Secure systems can be customized to ensure that specific areas of a building remain secure even when other areas are not. This can help prevent a perpetrator from gaining access to the entire building. For example, if an intruder gains entry through one door, Fail-Secure systems can ensure that they will not be able to access other parts of the building, such as secure areas or data centers.
Overall, the importance of Fail-Secure systems in the security industry cannot be overstated. These systems are crucial in maintaining the security and safety of buildings and facilities and can prevent major security breaches from occurring. By ensuring that access control systems remain locked and secure even during a power loss, Fail-Secure systems provide peace of mind to building owners and managers and help prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas of a building.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Improved building safety and security | May require more extensive installation and maintenance compared to Fail-Safe systems |
| Prevents unauthorized access during power outages or emergencies | May require additional investment due to its added security features |
| Customizable to meet specific safety and security needs | Without power, occupants may be unable to exit the building via the Fail-Secure system-locked doors |
Overall, Fail-Secure systems are a necessary investment for many buildings and facilities in terms of their safety and security needs. By preventing unauthorized access, ensuring secure areas remain locked, and meeting specific safety requirements, this type of access control system can provide numerous benefits to the building owner.
Common Applications of Fail-Secure Locks and Doors
Fail-secure locks and doors are commonly used in different applications across various industries. They are designed to provide high-security solutions that prevent unauthorized access to specific areas or equipment. Below are some of the typical applications of fail-secure locks and doors:
- Data Centers: Fail-secure locks and doors are essential in data centers to protect sensitive information. They prevent unauthorized access to servers, switches, and other critical equipment that stores and manages data.
- Financial Institutions: Fail-secure locks and doors are used in banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to secure vaults, safes, and other storage facilities for money and valuables.
- Government Facilities: Fail-secure locks and doors are utilized in government buildings and offices to protect classified information, equipment, and sensitive areas such as server rooms.
These are just a few of the many applications of fail-secure locks and doors. Businesses in various industries can benefit from the advanced security solutions that these locks offer. However, they need to choose the right type of fail-secure lock or door that meets their specific needs and requirements.
If you’re looking for a fail-secure lock or door for your business or facility, you should consider consulting an expert locksmith who can guide you through the selection, installation, and maintenance process. With the right solution in place, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your assets, information, and equipment are safe and secure.
Common Misconceptions About Fail-Secure Locking Systems
Fail-secure locking systems are designed to secure a facility in the event of a power failure or other emergency situations. However, there are several misconceptions about fail-secure locking systems that need clarification:
- Fail-secure locks are always closed during a power loss.
- Fail-secure locks are more secure than fail-safe locks.
- Fail-secure locks are difficult to install and maintain.
The Truth About Fail-Secure Locking Systems
Contrary to popular belief, fail-secure locks do not always remain closed during a power loss. Fail-secure locking systems are classified into two types: normally open and normally closed. A fail-secure normally open (FSNO) system is designed to unlock during a power failure or emergency situation, while a fail-secure normally closed (FSNC) system remains locked during the same circumstances.
Another misconception is that fail-secure locks are more secure than fail-safe locks. The truth is, both types of locking systems have their own unique security features and are suitable for different situations. Fail-secure locks are ideal for securing high-risk areas, while fail-safe locks are used for life safety and emergency egress routes in commercial buildings.
Lastly, installing and maintaining fail-secure locks does not have to be complicated. Many locking systems today use advanced technology and can be easily integrated with an access control system. With the right training and knowledge, facility owners and managers can easily maintain and troubleshoot their fail-secure locking systems.
The Benefits of Fail-Secure Locking Systems
Fail-secure locking systems offer many benefits for facility owners and managers. Some of these benefits include:
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Security | Fail-secure locking systems are designed to provide a high level of security and prevent unauthorized access. |
| Increased Control | Facility owners and managers can control who has access to specific areas of the facility and when they can access them. |
| Easy Integration | Many fail-secure locking systems can be easily integrated with an existing access control system. |
| Reliability | Fail-secure locking systems are designed to operate reliably even during power failures or other emergency situations. |
Overall, fail-secure locking systems are a reliable and secure solution for facility owners and managers who are looking for a way to protect their property and assets.
The Pros and Cons of Using Fail-Secure Systems
Fail-Secure Systems are an essential part of securing any location, whether it be a home, office, or governmental location. It is a system that, when power is lost, locks the door, and it remains locked until power is restored. While this system provides an extra layer of security, it also has its share of pros and cons.
- Pros:
- Increased security: Fail-Secure Systems provide an additional layer of security to any location they are installed, which can be beneficial, especially in high-risk areas.
- No need for additional locking mechanism: Fail-Secure Systems do not require an additional locking mechanism, which can save money on installation and maintenance costs.
- Enhanced control: Fail-Secure Systems offer enhanced control over access and can be easily integrated with other security technologies such as access control systems, surveillance systems, and alarms.
- Cons:
- Additional risk during a power outage: While Fail-Secure Systems increase security, they also pose a potential risk to life in case of emergency or power loss. If someone is trapped in a secure room, they cannot get out without power.
- Added complexity: A Fail-Secure System is a complex device that requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure it is working correctly.
- Cost: Installing a Fail-Secure System is an expensive affair, especially when additional installation and maintenance costs are involved.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep the Fail-Secure System running smoothly. It is better to have preventive maintenance to avoid a costly repair or replacement.
The maintenance activity includes the following;
- Inspect system and access control wiring to ensure all devices are working and connected.
- Clean and lubricate the locks and door to ensure proper unit operation.
- Check the battery backup, ensure it is at optimal capacity, and replace when necessary.
Fail-Secure System Components
The components of a Fail-Secure System include:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | The power supply provides the system power to operate the various access control devices and secure locks |
| Control Board | The control board manages the access control system within the Fail-Secure System. Depending on the system used, additional security technologies may also be integrated into the control board |
| Locks / Strike | The locks/strike are the physical mechanism that secures the door. The types of locks/strike will vary depending on the location that needs to be secured |
| Sensors | Sensors detect the state of the lock and the door, and are used to monitor access control |
| Backup Battery | The backup battery provides power to the system in case of power failure, to keep it operational until power is restored. |
A Fail-Secure System can provide the much-needed security for any location. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before implementing this system. Proper maintenance can improve the lifespan and efficiency of the system, making it worth the investment.
Comparing Fail-Secure and Fail-Safe Systems: What’s the Difference?
If you are reading this, you are probably interested in understanding the difference between fail-secure and fail-safe systems. These terms are commonly used in the security industry, but not everyone knows what they mean. Understanding the difference is critical to ensuring that your property is secure.
Fail-secure and fail-safe are two terms that describe how a door or gate will behave in the event of a power outage or system failure.
- Fail-Secure:
- The term “fail-secure” means that when the power goes out, the door or gate will remain locked or closed.
- Fail-secure systems are often used in high-security locations such as banks or prisons because they provide an additional layer of security.
- If someone tries to force the door or gate open, the lock will not release, preventing unauthorized access.
- Fail-Safe:
- Fail-safe systems, on the other hand, are designed to release the lock and open the door or gate when power is lost.
- This is particularly important in emergency situations where people need to evacuate quickly.
- Fail-safe systems are common in commercial buildings, hospitals, and other locations where people might need to exit quickly in the event of a fire or other emergency.
There are benefits and drawbacks to both fail-secure and fail-safe systems. Ultimately, the decision depends on your needs, the level of security required, and the potential risks associated with each type of system.
If you are trying to decide which type of system is best for your property, it is important to consult with a security professional. They can help you identify the risks and benefits of each type of system and determine which one is best suited to your needs.
Types of Fail-Secure and Fail-Safe Systems
Fail-secure and fail-safe systems can be further broken down into different categories depending on how they are powered and controlled.
The following are some common types of fail-secure and fail-safe systems:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery Backup | A battery backup system provides power to the lock or gate when the main power supply is lost. This type of system is common in fail-secure systems. |
| Magnetic Locks | Magnetic locks are a fail-safe system that use an electromagnetic current to keep the door or gate locked. When the power is lost, the electromagnetic current is released, allowing the door or gate to open. |
| Electric Strikes | Electric strikes are a fail-secure system that use an electrically powered striker to keep the door locked. When the power is lost, the striker is released, allowing the door to open. |
| Integrated Access Control Systems | Integrated access control systems combine fail-secure and fail-safe technology to provide an added layer of security. They use electronic controls to manage access to the property while also providing fail-safe features for emergency situations. |
The type of system you choose will depend on your needs and the risks associated with your property. Consult with a security professional to determine which type of system is best suited to your needs.
Choosing the Right Fail-Secure Locks and Systems for Your Needs
When it comes to securing your property or assets, choosing the right fail-secure locks and systems is crucial. Fail-secure locks are designed to remain locked in the event of a power failure, making them ideal for high-security applications. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips for choosing the right fail-secure locks and systems for your needs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Fail-Secure Locks and Systems
- Consider the level of security needed: The first thing to consider when choosing a fail-secure lock or system is the level of security needed. High-security applications may require electronic locks, biometric readers, or other advanced security measures.
- Assess your power supply: Fail-secure locks require power to operate, so it’s essential to assess your power supply before choosing a lock or system. If your power supply is unreliable, you may need to invest in a backup power source, such as a generator or battery backup.
- Ensure compatibility: Before purchasing a fail-secure lock or system, ensure that it is compatible with your existing hardware and software. Compatibility issues can result in significant delays and added expenses, so it’s crucial to do your research upfront.
The Benefits of Fail-Secure Locks and Systems
Fail-secure locks and systems offer several benefits, including:
- Increased security: Fail-secure locks are designed to remain locked in the event of a power failure, making them an ideal solution for high-security applications.
- Flexibility: Fail-secure locks and systems can be integrated with other security measures, such as surveillance cameras and access control systems, to create a comprehensive security solution.
- Convenience: With fail-secure locks, you don’t have to worry about manually locking doors in the event of a power failure. The locks will automatically engage and keep your property secure.
Fail-Secure Locks and Systems Table Comparison
| Brand | Type | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Adams Rite | Electronic Locks | Integrated with access control systems, tamper-resistant, and weather-resistant. |
| Von Duprin | Electric Strikes | Compatible with various locking mechanisms, adaptable to changing security needs, and user-friendly installation. |
| Sargent | Magnetic Locks | High holding force, available in different sizes and mounting options, and easy to install and maintain. |
Choosing the right fail-secure locks and systems requires careful consideration of your security needs, power supply, and compatibility requirements. With the right lock or system, you can ensure that your property remains secure in the event of a power failure.
7 FAQs about Is Fail Secure Normally Open?
1. What does “fail secure” mean?
Fail secure is a security device that remains locked when there is an unexpected power failure, making it difficult for unauthorized entry and preventing dangerous escape.
2. What does “normally open” mean?
Normally open in a fail secure system means that the lock will remain unlocked when the power is on, and only locks when the power is off or cut.
3. How does fail secure normally open work?
The mechanism functions when the power is cut in case of an emergency or security breach. The Fail Secure Normally Open lock actuator retracts, allowing the spring to push the tongue into the strike, locking the door, and preventing unauthorized entry.
4. What are the applications of fail secure normally open systems?
Fail secure normally open locks are commonly used in emergency exits, security gates, and other access control systems to ensure the safety of people and assets.
5. Can fail secure normally open locks be overridden?
Yes, typically by a key, pin code, or security card, but these overrides usually require security protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
6. How durable is a fail secure normally open locking system?
These locking systems are designed for long-term use, with durable materials and regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional.
7. Are fail secure normally open systems easy to install?
The installation process for fail secure normally open systems varies depending on the application, but most installations require a professional with expertise in electrical wiring and security systems.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read this article about is fail secure normally open. Understanding the benefits and applications of this security system is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals and assets. Remember to seek professional installation and maintenance assistance to guarantee long-term use. Don’t forget to visit us again for more informative articles on security systems.