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An electric strike is a powered keeper installed in a door frame. When an access-control system authorizes entry, the keeper releases the latch so the door can open; the existing lock or exit device remains part of the assembly. The right strike depends on that hardware, the frame, the electrical supply, and the opening’s security and life-safety requirements.
What does an electric strike do?
A conventional strike plate is fixed. An electric strike replaces it with a movable keeper that secures the door latch. On an authorized entry, the access-control system signals the strike to release the keeper, allowing the latch to pass without turning a key or operating the mechanical lock. Mul-T-Lock describes an electric strike as “an access control device used for doors” (Mul-T-Lock electric strikes).
The strike does not usually replace the lock or exit device. It works with the latch or bolt of compatible hardware, so the strike, lock, frame, access-control equipment, and any exit hardware need to function as one door assembly. For an overview of how mechanical and electrified components relate, see Allegion’s Door Hardware 101.
What is the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure?
These terms describe what the electric strike does on the secure side of the door when its power is lost. They do not, by themselves, describe whether someone can exit through the door. Allegion explains this distinction in its fail-safe versus fail-secure guidance.
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| Mode | On the secure side when power is lost | When power is applied |
|---|---|---|
| Fail-secure (sometimes called fail-locked) | The strike remains locked. | The strike releases to permit authorized entry. |
| Fail-safe (sometimes called fail-open) | The strike releases. | Power keeps the strike locked. |
Mechanical free egress may remain available in configurations where the lock or exit hardware permits it, regardless of the strike’s mode. That is not a guarantee for every lock function or door opening: confirm how the complete assembly operates in both normal and power-loss conditions.
How do I choose an electric strike for my door?
Start with the existing door hardware and its purpose, then confirm the proposed strike against the manufacturer’s documentation for the exact model and configuration. HES provides a product selector, compatibility information, and series-level details; use those resources rather than choosing by appearance alone.
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- The 9600 was the first surface mounted electric strike designed with the strength and durability required to exceed the severe forces of ANSI Windstorm testing.
- Designed to accommodate rim exit devices with a 3/4" [19mm] throw Pullman latch.
- FRAME APPLICATION: Metal or Wood.
- ELECTRICAL: (DC Continuous Duty), Dual voltage 12/24 VDC.
- SecuriCare five-year, no-fault, no questions asked WARRANTY.
- Identify the lock or exit device. Determine whether the door has cylindrical or mortise hardware, a deadbolt, or rim or vertical-rod exit hardware. Different strike families support different hardware types.
- Match the latch and keeper. Check latch dimensions, throw, centerline, and any deadbolt or interlock requirements against the exact strike’s specifications. Do not assume two similar-looking latches will fit the same keeper.
- Check the frame and available space. Confirm frame material, reinforcement, depth, faceplate dimensions, and the required cutout. If a recessed installation will not fit, check whether an appropriate surface-mounted model is available. Use the manufacturer’s template for the selected product.
- Determine the required power-loss behavior. Consider security needs alongside egress, fire-door requirements, release strategy, and applicable local rules. Do not assume a model can be converted in the field: the Von Duprin 4200 Series is specified as field-selectable between fail-safe and fail-secure, while the 6400 Series is fail-secure only (4200 Series; 6400 Series).
- Match the electrical supply. Verify the strike’s specified voltage and current draw against the controller and power supply. Wiring, polarity, AC/DC compatibility, duty cycle, and conversion methods vary by model; use the product’s instructions.
- Decide whether monitoring or outdoor suitability is needed. Latch and door-status monitoring options and environmental ratings differ among product families. Confirm the exact option and rating rather than relying on a broad family description.
- Verify listings and documentation. Check the exact model, options, and installation configuration. A listing or rating published for one product or configuration does not establish that every variant—or the entire door assembly—has the same status.
What should I know about fire-rated doors and egress?
Fail-safe versus fail-secure is only one part of a life-safety review. Door function, exit hardware, positive latching, fire-alarm release strategy, product listings, the opening’s classification, and local requirements all matter. Allegion’s guidance states that fire-rated applications discussed there require fail-secure strikes to maintain positive latching and the applicable listings. Treat that as application guidance, not a universal rule for every jurisdiction or door assembly.
For a specific product example, Von Duprin identifies its 6400 Series as fail-secure only and publishes UL 1034 and UL 294 listings and a 3-hour UL 10C fire rating for the stated configuration. Those are product-specific manufacturer specifications, not proof of suitability for every fire door. Have the proposed opening checked against its hardware, listing, project conditions, local code, and authority having jurisdiction.
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- Field-selectable for fail safe or fail-secure operation
- Reversible non-handed design fits either right hand or left-handed doors
- Shallow design for use with most metal doors
- Powered by a solenoid, not a buzzer coil
- Stainless-steel keeper for strength and long life
How should an electric strike be installed and checked?
Installation details are model-specific. A typical planning and verification sequence is:
- Record the existing lock or exit device, latch dimensions, frame construction, and available installation space.
- Select a strike and faceplate documented as compatible with that hardware and frame, with the required listing and operating mode.
- Follow the exact product template and installation instructions for preparation, mounting, and wiring. Do not substitute a wiring diagram from another model.
- Check the supply voltage with a multimeter before connection, and confirm that the controller and power supply meet the product’s electrical requirements.
- Test the closed door for correct latching, authorized strike release, and intended egress operation. Verify the intended behavior during power loss and any required monitoring or release functions.
HES’s 1500/1600 Series installation instructions warn that input voltage more than 10% above the solenoid rating can damage the referenced strike family. That limit is specific to those instructions; follow the limits for the actual product. Wiring methods must also comply with applicable electrical requirements. Use a qualified door-hardware or access-control professional when the opening is fire-rated, on an egress route, or otherwise code-regulated.
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How do example strike families differ?
These examples illustrate why selection should be based on the exact application, not a universal “best” model. Specifications and listings can change, so consult the latest product documentation before specifying or installing.
Quick Recap
| Product family | Published details | What to verify for your opening |
|---|---|---|
| Von Duprin 4200 Series | Manufacturer information lists a standard 4-7/8-inch faceplate, 1-3/8-inch backbox depth, field-selectable voltage, and field conversion between fail-safe and fail-secure without disassembly. | Confirm current dimensions, voltage and current requirements, compatible hardware, and the exact configuration’s listings in the current product data sheet. |
| Von Duprin 6400 Series | Manufacturer information describes it as fail-secure only, with UL 1034 and UL 294 listings and a 3-hour UL 10C fire rating in the stated configuration. | Confirm the exact model and configuration, and verify suitability for the complete door assembly and project requirements. |
| HES electric-strike families | HES’s selector and series information show that compatible lock types, latch accommodation, monitoring options, fire ratings, and outdoor suitability vary by family. | Use the selector, compatibility chart, and instructions to confirm exact fit, electrical requirements, and ratings for the selected model and options. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
