FSH Electric Door Locks Buying Guide: Electric Strikes and Magnetic Locks
FSH Electric Door Locks Buying Guide
Choosing the right electronic door lock depends on much more than holding strength. The door construction, latch type, mounting method, power supply, monitoring requirements, fire-door approval and exposure to weather all affect which lock should be used.
This guide explains the main differences between FSH electric door strikes and FSH electromagnetic locks, including monitored and non-monitored models, Power to Lock and Power to Open operation, common FSH series and compatible accessories.
You can also view the complete FSH electronic door locks collection available from CTC Communications.
Quick Guide: Which FSH Lock Type Do You Need?
| Lock type | Best suited to | Important consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Electric strike | Doors already fitted with a compatible mechanical latch or lock | The strike must match the latch, frame, door handing and available installation depth |
| Surface-mounted rim strike | Pedestrian gates and doors using compatible rim latches | Confirm the rim-lock arrangement and weather exposure |
| Electromagnetic lock | Commercial doors where fail-safe locking and access control integration are required | A compliant exit method and emergency power-release arrangement are essential |
| Weather-resistant electromagnetic lock | External gates and exposed entry points | Choose a model with an appropriate environmental rating, such as IP68 |
Electric Strike or Magnetic Door Lock?
FSH Electric Door Strikes
An electric strike is installed within or onto the door frame and works with a compatible mechanical latch. When the access control system authorises entry, the strike keeper releases so the door can open without the user manually retracting the latch.
Electric strikes are commonly used with intercoms, keypads, card readers and access controllers. They are available in mortice-mounted, compact ANSI-footprint and surface-mounted rim configurations.
FSH Electromagnetic Locks
An electromagnetic lock uses an energised magnet mounted to the frame and an armature plate fitted to the door. When powered, the magnet holds the armature plate securely. When power is removed, the door releases.
Magnetic locks are generally Power to Lock and therefore fail safe. Their installation must include a compliant means of egress and may also require connection to the building’s fire or emergency-release system.
Browse CTC Communications’ ranges of electric door strikes and magnetic door locks.
Monitored vs Non-Monitored Door Locks
A non-monitored lock performs the locking and release function without returning lock or door status information to the access control system. This is suitable where the system only needs to unlock the door.
A monitored model can provide one or more status outputs:
- DSS – Door Status Sensor: indicates door position or latch engagement, depending on the lock design
- LSS – Lock Status Sensor: indicates whether the locking mechanism or magnetic bond is secure
- ATS or anti-tamper monitoring: indicates whether the lock has been removed or interfered with
- LED or light-panel indication: provides a visible indication of lock, door or power status on selected monitored magnetic locks
Monitoring is valuable for commercial access control, controlled staff areas, schools, offices, government facilities and sites where operators need confirmation that a door has closed and secured correctly.
Power to Lock vs Power to Open
- Power to Lock (PTL): power is required to keep the door locked. Removing power releases the locking device. This is commonly described as fail safe.
- Power to Open (PTO): the door remains locked when power is removed and releases when power is applied. This is commonly described as fail secure.
Many FSH electric strike ranges allow the installer to select PTL or PTO operation on site. The required function depends on the door, building use, emergency-release design and applicable regulations. Electromagnetic locks are normally PTL because they require power to maintain the magnetic bond.
FSH Electric Strike Comparison
| Series | Mounting and application | Holding strength | Monitoring | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FES7 | Compact recessed strike for compatible entrance-set applications | Up to 500kg | Non-monitored | 12V DC, PTO |
| FES10 / FES10M | Compact ANSI footprint for residential and light-commercial doors | Up to 1000kg | FES10 non-monitored; FES10M with DSS | 12/24V DC; field-selectable PTL/PTO |
| FES15 / FES15M | Surface-mounted strike for compatible rim locks and pedestrian gates | Up to 1200kg | FES15 non-monitored; FES15M with latch and anti-tamper monitoring | 12/24V DC; field-selectable PTL/PTO |
| FES20 / FES20M | Australian-footprint, high-security mortice strike | Up to 1200kg | FES20 non-monitored; FES20M with DSS, LSS and ATS | 12–36V DC; field-selectable PTL/PTO |
| FES90M-P | Motorised high-security strike for doors affected by preload or side load | Up to 1300kg with up to 35kg preload release capability | LSS and DSS | 10–30V DC; field-selectable PTL/PTO |
Which FSH Electric Strike Should You Choose?
FSH FES7 – Compact Door Release
Choose the FSH FES7 when installation space is limited and a compact, non-monitored 12V DC Power to Open strike suits the compatible door and latch. It provides up to 500kg static holding strength.
FSH FES10 and FES10M – Compact ANSI Footprint
The FES10 Series is designed for residential and light-commercial applications. Both versions offer up to 1000kg holding strength, 12/24V DC operation and field-selectable PTL/PTO configuration.
- Choose the FSH FES10 when monitoring is not required and IP56 weather resistance is suitable for the proposed installation.
- Choose the FSH FES10M when the access control system requires DSS door/latch status feedback.
FSH FES15 and FES15M – Surface Mount for Rim Locks
The FES15 Series is designed for surface-mounted rim-latch applications, including compatible pedestrian gates. Both models provide up to 1200kg holding strength and field-selectable PTL/PTO operation.
- Choose the FSH FES15 for a non-monitored installation. The non-monitored model is rated IP56.
- Choose the FSH FES15M when latch and anti-tamper monitoring are required.
FSH FES20 and FES20M – High-Security Australian Footprint
The stainless-steel FES20 Series is suited to high-security commercial access control. It accepts 12–36V DC, provides up to 1200kg holding strength and uses a field-selectable PTL/PTO mechanism. Both models are supplied with a 10mm strike lip and are pre-drilled for compatible extension lips.
- Choose the FSH FES20 where monitoring is not required.
- Choose the FSH FES20M for DSS, LSS and anti-tamper monitoring. The FES20M is also SCEC approved for secure-area applications, subject to the specified installation and approval requirements.
FSH FES90M-P – Motorised Strike for Preload
The FES90M-P is designed for high-security doors where pressure against the latch can prevent a conventional strike from releasing reliably. Its motorised operation supports release under up to 35kg of preload or side load, with up to 1300kg holding strength, LSS and DSS monitoring, and low-current sleep mode.
FSH Magnetic Door Lock Comparison
| Series | Configuration | Holding strength | Monitoring | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEM4300 | Slimline single or double; monitored or non-monitored | Up to 280kg per single lock | M models provide LSS, DSS and status indication | Slim door frames, offices, retail and general commercial access control |
| FEM5700 | Standard single or double; monitored or non-monitored | Refer to the selected model documentation | Monitored models provide LSS, DSS and a high-visibility light panel | Commercial doors requiring visible lock-status indication |
| FEM6600 | Standard single or double; monitored or non-monitored | Up to 580kg per single lock | M models provide LSS, DSS and status indication | Higher-strength commercial access-controlled doors |
| FEM5400WM | Weather-resistant single monitored lock | Tested up to 570kg | LSS | External doors and gates exposed to weather; IP68 rated |
| FEM4000HST | High-security single monitored lock | Up to 580kg | High-security monitoring with an electronically addressable armature plate | Secure-area and higher-security commercial applications |
Which FSH Magnetic Lock Should You Choose?
FEM4300 – Slimline Commercial Maglock
The FEM4300 Series is a practical choice when a slimline 12/24V DC electromagnetic lock is required. Single and double-door versions are available, with monitored and non-monitored options. Each single lock provides up to 280kg holding strength.
- Choose the FEM4300 non-monitored single lock for straightforward fail-safe door control.
- Choose the FEM4300M monitored single lock when LSS and DSS feedback are required.
FEM6600 – Higher Holding Strength
The FEM6600 Series increases holding strength to up to 580kg per single lock. It is available in single or double-door configurations and monitored or non-monitored versions, making it suitable for a broad range of commercial access control installations.
The FSH FEM6600M is a suitable starting point where a monitored single-door maglock with LSS and DSS is required.
FEM5400WM – Weather-Resistant External Maglock
For an exposed external application, consider the FSH FEM5400WM. It has stainless-steel construction, an IP68 rating, LSS monitoring and holding strength tested up to 570kg.
Single vs Double Magnetic Locks
A single magnetic lock is designed for one door leaf. A double magnetic lock contains two locking sections and is used across compatible double-door openings.
Do not select a double lock based only on the width of the doorway. The door leaves, frame, opening direction, fixing points, cable route and required brackets must all be assessed. Each armature plate must align correctly with its corresponding magnet.
Choosing the Correct Bracket and Extension Lip
The locking device is only one part of the installation. Magnetic locks may require L, Z, L&Z or other model-specific brackets depending on whether the door opens inward or outward and how the frame is constructed.
Electric strikes may require an extension lip to position the strike face correctly and allow the door latch to clear the frame. FSH extension lips are model-specific and are available in different lengths for the FES10 and FES20 Series.
Before ordering, confirm:
- The exact lock or strike model
- Door and frame material
- Door opening direction and handing
- Frame depth and latch dimensions
- Required bracket or extension-lip length
- Whether the finish must match a silver or black magnetic lock
Browse compatible magnetic door lock brackets or contact CTC Communications for assistance matching the accessory to the lock.
Fire-Rated and Secure-Area Applications
A lock’s stated fire rating does not automatically approve every door installation. Suitability depends on the complete doorset, frame, latch or armature, fixing method, wiring, access control design and the approvals applying to the project.
Selected FSH models are fire rated for up to two or four hours, while selected high-security models have SCEC approval for secure-area applications. Always confirm the exact model, doorset approval and installation requirements with Allegion, the door manufacturer and the project certifier before installation.
Power Supply and Access Control Compatibility
FSH electronic locks can be activated by compatible intercoms, keypads, card readers, door controllers and access control systems. The power supply must match the lock voltage and provide sufficient current for every device connected to the circuit.
The system design should also account for:
- Battery backup and emergency-release requirements
- Voltage drop over the cable distance
- Current draw during lock operation
- Monitoring inputs required by the controller
- Surge protection and correctly rated cabling
- Request-to-exit buttons, break-glass units and fire-system interfaces where required
Professional Installation Is Recommended
Electronic door locking forms part of the building’s access and emergency-egress system. Incorrect selection or installation can cause poor alignment, unreliable release, reduced holding performance or non-compliant egress.
A suitably qualified security or access control technician should confirm the door type, mechanical lock, mounting hardware, voltage, monitoring, fire-release operation and local compliance requirements before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an electric strike and a magnetic lock?
An electric strike works with a compatible mechanical latch and releases the keeper within the door frame. A magnetic lock uses an electromagnet and armature plate to hold the door closed while power is applied.
Should I choose a monitored FSH lock?
Choose a monitored model when the access control system needs feedback confirming door, latch or lock status. A non-monitored model is sufficient where the system only needs to control door release.
Are FSH electric strikes fail safe or fail secure?
Many FSH strike ranges are field selectable for Power to Lock or Power to Open operation. The FES7 is a Power to Open model. Confirm the required function for the door and emergency-release design before ordering.
Why does an external door need a weather-rated lock?
Moisture, wind and temperature exposure can affect a locking device that is not designed for external use. Choose the environmental rating appropriate to the installation, such as IP56 on selected non-monitored strikes or IP68 on the FEM5400WM external magnetic lock.
Can an FSH lock connect to an intercom?
Yes, provided the intercom relay, power supply and lock operating requirements are compatible. Some installations require a separate power supply or access control relay rather than powering the lock directly from the intercom.
Can I use an electric strike on any door?
No. The strike must be compatible with the mechanical latch, frame material, available recess, door action and required security level. Double-action doors and multi-point locking systems may require a different locking solution.
How do I choose an extension lip?
Measure the door-frame profile and determine how far the latch must travel past the frame. Extension lips are model-specific, so confirm both the strike series and required length before ordering.
Does a fire-rated lock make the complete door fire rated?
No. The complete doorset and installation must be approved. Confirm the proposed lock with the lock manufacturer, door manufacturer and project certifier.
Shop FSH Electric Door Locks at CTC Communications
CTC Communications supplies FSH electric strikes, magnetic locks, extension lips, mounting brackets and access control accessories throughout Australia.
Shop the FSH electronic door locks range or contact our team for help comparing lock types, monitoring options, power supplies and compatible mounting hardware.