Von Duprin Electrified Devices

Von Duprin "EL" devices are electrified so the latch can be remotely retracted.  Wires run through the frame and into the door to a solenoid inside the device.

Power supply model PS873-2 is always used with "EL" devices.  Regular power supplies will not work as they do not have the 16 amps output required by the solenoid.

The high amp output also requires that heavy gauge wire be used (12 or 14 ga.)

An EPT (Electric Power Transfer) is used at the frame to carry the heavier wires.  An electric hinge may also be used, but the wires must be twisted together to beef up the wire gauge.  Two wires are twisted into one to create the heavier gauge wire.

Quick Tip

If your device stops working, first check the potted circuit breaker next to the solenoid.  This is usually the culprit.

Power Supply

The standard PS873 power supply doesn't do much by itself.  It requires add-on modules to reach it's potential. See our Von Duprin Tutorial for more complete information.

The 871-2 module is called a "2-Zone Controller" as it allows the power supply to operate two doors.  More importantly, it increases the output of the PS873 to 16 amps, that required by all "EL" devices.

A building with just one "EL" device still needs the 2-Zone controller to get the 16 amps.

A building with two "EL" devices needs only a single power supply.  Make sure the wire run to each door is 100 feet or less.

If ordering the two separately, order a PS873 + 871-2 module.  You may also order the two together using a single, simplified model number: PS873-2.  Since the module plugs in you can order them either way.  It does not need to be installed at the factory.

Input Devices

The standard input devices you'll see outside a door are: Keypad, Card Swipe, Prox Reader, etc.

Once activated with a valid code, the input device sends a signal to the power supply to unlock the door.  This causes the power supply to flow power to the "EL" device, retracting the latch.

Input devices are really "signal senders".  They simply notify the power supply to "GO".

When selecting an input device it's a good idea to look for a model with a built-in timer.  Every system needs a timer and the same is true with "EL" systems.  Keypads, for example, are available with or without a timer as it depends upon the model you select.  Securitron is one brand to look at as most models include a timer.

Von Duprin makes a plug-in module that acts as a timer, but it is very expensive and does much more than you'll typically need.  Better to place a timer somewhere else in the system.

Another type of timer is called an "in line" timer as it splices into the wires within the system.  HES model 2005 is a good example of an in line timer.  Regardless of where you decide to add the timer it is required for every system.  Without a timer, the door unlock time cannot be set.