Q: What voltage does the control unit run on?

LabKey control units run on 12V direct current (DC): it’s important to use exclusively the power supply included in the kit to ensure compatibility and correct operation. Details for each model are in the Control Unit Types section.

Question 1

Which reader should you choose for outdoor installations?

Accepted Answer

LabKey readers are IP65-certified, so they resist dust and water jets, and are suitable for outdoor installations. The best model for your context depends on the technology (NFC, PIN, or QR code) and whether you need a vandal-proof version: see the Readers section for a comparison of the available models.

Question 2

Can I install LabKey without an internet connection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Stand Alone mode lets you manage PIN, NFC, and QR code access directly from the control unit, without needing a Wi-Fi network or the cloud, with initial setup via the mobile app (Light model) or the local network (Basic, PRO, LTE).

Question 3

What should I do if a newly connected device doesn't appear in the list?

Accepted Answer

First, check the wiring and the DIP switch configuration. If everything looks correct, manually force a new synchronization from the control unit&rsquo;s interface: the device&rsquo;s LED will blink yellow to confirm it&rsquo;s been recognized — see How the LEDs Communicate.

Question 4

What does the yellow blinking on the reader mean?

Accepted Answer

Yellow blinking indicates that the device has received a command from the control unit and a synchronization is in progress. If synchronization doesn&rsquo;t complete, check the DIP switch configuration. The full breakdown of what each LED signal means is available in How the LEDs Communicate.

Question 5

Are there accessories available to protect readers installed outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, protective shields are available that shelter the device from the weather and reduce direct sun glare, improving reading reliability even in very bright outdoor settings. For the list of accessories available for control units, see the Accessories section.

Question 6

What voltage does the control unit run on?

Accepted Answer

LabKey control units run on 12V direct current (DC): it&rsquo;s important to use exclusively the power supply included in the kit to ensure compatibility and correct operation. Details for each model are in the Control Unit Types section.

Question 7

How do you connect the control unit to the device being unlocked (lock, gate motor)?

Accepted Answer

The gate or electronic device to be triggered connects to the control unit&rsquo;s relay terminal (dry N/O contact, up to 10A/250V): depending on the model, 2, 4, or 8 relays are available, each able to manage one gate. For the complete wiring diagram, see Electrical Wiring.

Question 8

Does LabKey work with mechanical locks too?

Accepted Answer

No: the system is designed to work exclusively with electric or electromechanical locks that unlock via an electrical pulse, connected to the control unit&rsquo;s relay — see Electrical Wiring.

Question 9

How much time passes between code recognition and door opening?

Accepted Answer

Opening is nearly instantaneous: from the moment a valid NFC key, code, or QR code is recognized, the unlock pulse is sent to the relay in less than a second.

Question 10

How often does the control unit sync with the cloud?

Accepted Answer

Automatic synchronization happens every 5 minutes. If a change is saved from the Manage panel, however, synchronization to the control unit is triggered immediately.

FAQ: Control Units and Readers