Vanderbilt ACT365 Door Controller, Single Door Cloud IP, 2A PSU V54502-C161-A100

What this controller does

A door controller is the part of an access control system that decides whether a card or PIN may open a door, then switches the lock.

This Vanderbilt unit runs one door and is managed through the ACT365 cloud service instead of a server on site. Vanderbilt requires you to register as an installer before you can use ACT365.

How it works

• Cloud management: you set users and door rules through the web portal, on a PC, tablet or smart phone with a modern web browser.
• Network link: the dual port Ethernet switch gives you a network connection, with a second port. Up to 4 controllers can share a hub based network.
• Video with events: the service can show live video and review recorded video linked to events and doors. Check which cameras and recorders work with it before relying on this.
• Anti passback: this stops one card being used twice in a row to enter. The controllers must be on the same LAN segment.

Where to use it

It is for indoor walls only, with a working range of -10 to +55° C. The service lets you manage the physical security for all your sites in a single interface.

On an escape route a fail safe lock usually suits, and it needs a release route. Agree this with whoever holds the fire strategy before fitting.

What the figures mean in practice

• The 2Amp in the name: the supply's limit is 1.5A @ 25°C for the load, plus 0.5A for battery charging. Plan your lock and readers around the 1.5A @ 25°C figure.
• 13.65V output: this is sold as a 12V DC PSU, and the output is 13.65V (+/-5%). Choose a lock and readers that accept this voltage, and give any lock needing a higher voltage its own supply.
• Readers up to 500mA: add up the current of the entry and exit readers and keep the total within this figure.
• Door relay and auxiliary relay: the door relay is rated 5 Amp and the auxiliary relay 1 Amp. Check the lock's current against the first and any extra load against the second.

Installing it

• Mains: the mains side should be connected by a competent person, through a suitable isolator.
• Lock protection: fit a suppression diode across a DC maglock or strike, unless the lock has its own, to protect the relay.
• Tamper: both the lid and the rear are monitored, so fix the case firmly to the wall to keep the rear switch closed.
• Fuses: the mains input has a 625mA 250V anti-surge fuse and the load output a 2A PTC resettable fuse.

Planning your system

A working door also needs a reader, a lock, an exit button, a network connection and a standby battery if you want cover in a power cut. Each one is a separate purchase.

Vanderbilt's own 12V 7.0 Ah battery is sold separately, and there is space for one in the case. Readers can be ACT or Wiegand types.

Ratings explained

• Interlock/airlock: two doors are linked so that only one can be open at a time.
• Voltage and break glass monitoring: the system can warn you about a supply problem, or that a break glass unit has operated.
• CE directives: this version comes under the Electromagnetic Compatibility, Low Voltage and restriction of hazardous substances directives, as it includes the mains supply.