Videx Emergency Push to Exit Button, Surface or Flush, Stainless Steel SP80/SR

What this button is for

A door held by an electric lock needs a simple way to open it from the inside. A plain exit button usually does that by asking the controller to release the door, which depends on the controller working.

The SP80/SR adds a second, direct path. It could be used on sites where a standard green break glass can't be used due to constant misuse.

How it works

• Normally open circuit: normally open means the contact closes when pressed. Here it triggers the control equipment for a timed exit, holding the doors open or unlocked for the programmed time.
• Normally closed circuit: normally closed means the contact opens when pressed. Here it sits in the lock's power line, so the lock loses power for as long as the button is held in.
• Together: using both circuits gives a route out should the control equipment fail or become compromised, provided the lock is a fail-safe type.

Where to use it

It suits the secure side of doors with a maglock or other fail-safe lock. The halo and engraving help people find it quickly, including visually impaired users.

Do not assume it meets the requirements for an escape route. A door on an escape route usually needs its release agreed with whoever holds the fire strategy. Check the approvals you need against the unit's documentation before specifying it.

What the figures mean in practice

• 21mm diameter: this is a large tactile button, so it is easy to find by touch.
• 304 grade: a common stainless steel with good corrosion resistance, which makes it a sensible choice for a hard-wearing door position. Do not read this as a weather rating.
• 85mm square face plate: this covers a standard single gang box opening, which makes it easy to swap in where one already exists.

Installing it

• Surface fitting: use the supplied surface box, which adds 38mm of depth from the wall. The same box is also sold as the SPB/SS.
• Flush fitting: use a standard UK single gang flush box, 74mm square and 35mm deep. Check the existing box depth before cutting.
• Wiring: connect common and normally closed in the lock's supply, and common and normally open to the timed exit input. As a rule, a surge suppressor across a lock coil protects the contacts.

Planning your system

As a rule, the button is one part of the door. The job also needs a fail-safe lock such as a maglock, a suitable access control power supply and a controller with an exit input.

On any door people rely on to get out, read the access control guide on escape routes and agree the design first. The full range of exit buttons covers other formats.