Lock Latches

Southco is bringing its electronic locking capabilities outside with the recent launch of our R4-EM Outdoor Electronic Rotary Latch.

With its corrosion-resistant plated-steel or stainless steel outer body construction and fully-sealed internal actuator, the R4-EM Outdoor provides reliable electronic locking that is resistant to moisture and dust, making it an excellent choice for external applications.

 

The newest versions of the C2 Lever Latch and C5 Sealed Lever Latch are now available with an optional rubber bumper accessory that delivers more consistent compression and compensates for misalignment, reducing wear, vibration and noise.

C2 and C5 latches are industry-proven solutions that have tested exceptionally well in harsh working conditions. The sealed C5 protects and water and dust, and locking options on both models enable added security. Added design options include the C5 in chrome and the C2 with two new head styles: 7 mm square and railway.

 

Southco’s popular DZUS^® D8 Panex Quarter-Turn Fastener line has recently expanded with the introduction to of a new stainless steel verison. The stainless steel D8 delivers the same quick access and fast installation as the standard D8, but enables dependable fastening in harsh environments where heat and corrosion may affect operation.

 

In today’s healthcare facilities, security threats extend beyond physical building security and down to medical enclosures such as cabinets, dispensing carts and charting stations, and portable diagnostic equipment. For many healthcare facility managers, monitoring security at the enclosure or cart level can be a challenge. In response, many are looking to the manufacturers of these enclosures for solutions.

Managing mechanical keys can be complicated, inconvenient and costly. Physical keys need to be carefully managed to ensure they are in the hands of authorized personnel only. These keys must also be retrieved and reassigned when employees change shifts or are no longer employed by the institution, which can be a challenge in larger facilities. By replacing traditional key locks with electromechanical locks and latches, access to medical equipment can be easily modernized to meet changing security needs.

 

Electronic locks, like Southco’s R4-EM Light Duty Electronic Rotary Latch for example, allow medical equipment manufacturers to build intelligent security into their products. When used as part of an electronic access system (EAS), the electronic lock creates an electronic signature that can provide user authentication, audit trail and reporting capabilities, simplifying security administration and eliminating opportunities for physical security breaches.

Southco’s R4-EM provides a simple, versatile solution for a variety of medical applications. This compact latch is mounted inside the equipment, using minimal interior space and allowing a clean exterior appearance that protects it from vandalism. The R4-EM can be easily wired directly to a wide variety of access-control devices, such as the EA-KC2 Membrane Keypad Access Controller, the EA-R02 RF Wireless Remote Controller and the EA-P3 Proximity Reader for a complete remotely managed access system.

Electronic access solutions are ideal for medical equipment as they can provide an indisputable access audit trail for all doors and cabinets secured electronically. Each time an enclosure equipped with an electronic latch opens or closes, a signal is sent to a monitoring system to confirm and log access. Depending on the configuration, EAS reporting can provide more than just simple open/closed information – such as which credential activated the electronic lock and the time and duration of the event.

 

 

When designing physical security into self-service enclosures, such as kiosks and pick-up drop-off points (PUDOs), manufacturers must anticipate the need for modern methods of access control and incorporate new technology, while still providing a solution that is cost-effective and meets the requirements of the growing self-service industry. Incorporating appropriate electromechanical locks or latches (EMLs) into enclosure design is key to delivering an end product that delivers convenience, usability and above all, security.

 

Electronic access solutions can provide an indisputable access audit trail for all doors and cabinets secured electronically. Each time an EML-equipped enclosure opens or closes, a signal is sent to a monitoring system to confirm and log access. Depending on the configuration, EAS reporting can provide more than just simple open/closed information – such as which credential activated the EML and the time and duration of the event.

An EML serves as both a locking/latching device and intelligent access interface, offering a full range of retrofit options to update the security and control of existing enclosures for a variety of applications.

When selecting a quality EML, such as Southco’s R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch, it should meet the following criteria:

• Integrates easily with existing control systems
• Provides simple and versatile installation options
• Includes a mechanical override feature for manual release in case of power failure
• Provides optimum efficiency to provide high mechanical strength while using minimum electrical power
• Incorporates built in intelligence to allow for various locking features such as delayed re-locking, lock status monitoring, sleep mode and communication with external systems

When issuing security cards, codes and keys, it is often difficult to guarantee that only the individuals authorized to use these items will actually do so. Though it may be against company policy, an employee may still allow a co-worker to borrow his/her key for the sake of convenience. Even with the latest technology-based security and audit solutions, tracking the person who is actually assigned to their individual method of access can be a challenge.

Recently, a firm tasked with designing enclosure cabinets for a government research facility approached Southco about specifying an enhanced security latching solution into their application. The facility had requested a door latch that would allow only certain employees to access server cabinets containing highly-confidential, restricted government data.

Their main concern was centered on finding a way to ensure that only these employees could physically open the doors to the restricted cabinets. Additionally, the facility required the capability to electronically track and record access to the door latch via a remote system located off site.

Southco suggested its H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle, which offers integrated sensors and multiple output signals that provide data for both local and remote monitoring, facilitating the maintenance of an accurate, trackable audit trail - while keeping enclosure doors securely latched.

The H3-EM is Southco's leading electronic lock, now available with a built-in biometric verification and access control system, which allows the system to verify the individual’s unique fingerprint before the lock is released and the cabinet can be opened. Fast fingerprint validation via the biometric reader eliminates the need for keys, cards or PIN pads and provides accurate user identification.

 

Would you use biometrics in locking and security applications?  Tell us in the comments.

Southco’s popular electronic swinghandle is now available with an integrated proximity reader, allowing our customers to seamlessly add additional keyless entry points to existing security systems.

Southco’s new H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle with Integrated Proximity Reader produces a standard 26 bit Wiegand output and accepts HID 125 kHz prox cards or tags – and is compatible with existing user credentials.

 

 

The H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle with Integrated Proximity Reader features single panel preparation, allowing it to be easily incorporated into standard industry designs.

By integrating both the prox reader and swinghandle into one solution, it saves the customer both time and labor involved with installation. The H3-EM with Integrated Proximity Reader offers enhanced electromechanics, and easy set up and configuration, as well as improved ergonomics.

Additionally, when connected to an existing security system, this new swinghandle also enables the user to easily track and record access to the electronic locks, providing an audit trail that can be used to help demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements.

Interested in learning more? Visit the electronic latching swinghandle page for more information about how the H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle with Integrated Proximity Reader can help meet your datacenter security needs.

Southco’s newest technology allows you to seamlessly actuate multiple electronic locks and devices through your existing computer. Southco’s EA-A06 USB Controller provides simple, independent, remote actuation of up to 14 electromechanical latches when connected to a standard computer USB port.

The EA-A06 is designed with plug-and-play functionality which eliminates the need to splice wires and allows electronic locks and devices to be directly connected into the controller, saving time and labor involved with installation. By connecting the EA-A06 to an existing computer, the computer becomes a single source for remote actuation, eliminating the need for additional access control devices.

The EA-A06 provides an interface between the user’s existing interface and electronic latches which can provide remote control and audit trail capabilities that can be used to help demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements – making it an ideal choice for self service, enclosure and medical applications.

Additionally, the controller is compatible with Southco’s electromechanical latches, including our popular R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch, EM e-Keeper and H3-EM Electronic Swinghandle, as well as other electronic locks and devices.

Learn more about Southco’s robust line of EAS products.

Have an application that the EA-A06 USB Controller may be appropriate for? Tell us in the comments.

Cloud computing is not just a technology buzz phrase anymore – it’s a reality. As more companies begin moving their data (and customer data) to the cloud, the focus is not just on the new technology itself, but on securing datacenters and protecting information from the threat of security breaches.

While many precautions can be taken software-wise when it comes to preventing a cyber-attack, it is the physical security at the cabinet level of the datacenter that is often overlooked.

Recognizing that data can be accessed on the ground as well as in a network setting, a cloud computing provider recently approached our engineers seeking a more sophisticated access control system solution to replace the existing locks on its datacenter enclosure cabinets.

The datacenter was currently using a combination locking system in conjunction with a mechanical latch on all cabinet doors, with a unique combination code assigned to each employee who would need to gain access to the enclosures. Due to more stringent regulatory requirements affecting the data which was stored by the provider, it was necessary to incorporate an upgraded access control system with an electronic latch, enabling an automated, secure audit trail that could be monitored from a remote location.

The engineers also communicated to Southco that they already use an existing non-contact card reader system to grant employees access to datacenter entrance points. The provider requested that the new electronic latching system for their cabinets integrate with their existing security system and use the same access control credentials.

 

 

Our engineers suggested Southco’s H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle and our EA-P3 Proximity Reader. The intelligence of our H3-EM offers electronic locking capability and allows for remote monitoring and access through the datacenter’s existing security system. The EA-P3 produces a standard 26 bit Wiegand output and reads HID 125 kHz prox cards or tags, making it compatible with the datacenter’s existing security system  and allowing datacenter staff to use their current access control credentials to unlock and open their cabinets.

What steps are you taking to ensure that your datacenter cabinets are securely locked? Tell us in the comments.

In hospitals, pharmaceutical theft is a big problem. Medicine that is unaccounted for or dispensed of improperly can cause disruptions to patient care, and in severe cases, these actions can even result in accidental death. To prevent pharmaceutical theft from occurring, the medical industry must implement access solutions that not only keep pharmaceutical inventory secure, but provide an electronic, trackable audit trail as well.

Recently, our engineers were approached by a manufacturer of medical storage devices regarding an interior latching system for a medical dispensing cart. The manufacturer was seeking a latching solution that would allow the individual drawers of a medication dispensing cart to be automatically opened and closed when accessed through an attached touchscreen computer.

Southco engineers recommended the R4-EM Light Duty Rotary Latch, which provides a simple, versatile electromechanical latch solution that allows access to complete systems to be monitored and controlled remotely, in this case through the computer attached to the dispensing cart.

When the user’s access code is entered into the computer and the medicine is selected, the computer sends a signal to Southco's R4-EM to open the latch of the corresponding medicine drawer. Once the medicine is removed, the drawer simply needs to be closed manually by the user, and it is once again securely re-latched. 

Constructed of durable composite plastic, Southco's R4-EM Light Duty Rotary Latch delivers the proven reliability of the Steel R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch in a lightweight, compact package. Other features include a microprocessor control that provides energy efficiency, an integrated mechanical override should a power failure occur, and an optional internal microswitch to provide an output to indicate the status of the lock.

 

What steps are you taking to safeguard your pharmaceuticals? Do you use door latches or electronic latching solutions in your applications? Tell us in the comments.

Extreme temperatures are a constant source of frustration for engineers designing for outdoor applications because hardware must be protected from the elements but still be fully functional. The challenge is finding the right material to suit your application; the solution is anticipating the elements and designing accordingly.

Southco engineers were recently consulted by a utility company about replacing the locking system on large, free-standing power boxes. Because the boxes are stationed permanently outside, the utility company had been forced to replace latches annually due to damage sustained by changes in weather. The company wished to ensure the front door of the box remained securely latched even in the event that its inner hardware became damaged by weather exposure.

Our engineers suggested Southco’s AC-30 and AC-40 Stainless Steel Actuators, to be used as a complete system with our R4 Series Rotary Latches. When combined with our cable and rod options, they become a complete rotary latch system. This complete system allows the engineer to install the R4 on the inside of the box and install the AC-30 or AC-40 on the outside, with both connected by the cable. When the operator triggers the AC-30 or AC-40, it releases the rotary latch within the interior, granting access.

Southco’s AC-30 and AC-40 are constructed of non-corrosive materials and are suitable for outdoor use in a wide range of working and extreme temperatures. A key-locking feature provides multiple key codes for added security, and a lock/unlock indicator provides visual feedback on lock status. Additionally, we offer an optional attached cam latch for push-to-close functionality with added compression.

 

Is temperature exposure a factor in your outdoor latching applications? Tell us in the comments.

 

When it comes to locker use, winning the war against theft can be tough. Whether an employer requires its employees to keep their belongings in a locker during their shifts, or a business offers lockers for customer use, security must always be at the forefront of operations. Because even codes to the most sophisticated combination can be cracked and keys can be stolen or copied, locker manufacturers are looking at new ways to deter theft - and many are turning to electronic access solutions.

A locker manufacturer recently approached Southco engineers about specifying a latching system for an upgraded line of lockers designed to protect more valuable belongings in both work and leisure settings, such as expo facilities and athletic clubs. Its engineers were mainly interested in a heavy-duty internal latch to be housed in the locker door, as well as a more unique option for user access than a key or combination lock.

 

Our engineers recommended the EA-KC2 Membrane Keypad Access Controller and R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch, which simplify access management with a self-contained unit, meaning no external connections or software are required to program or operate the system.

The Membrane Keypad Controller contains a microprocessor that compares the stored user access codes with what is being entered on the corresponding Membrane Keypad and either grants or denies access. The Controller also provides two outputs for independent control of two separate latches and works with the Membrane Keypad, which can hold 120, four-digit user codes.

 

The R4-EM Electronic Rotary Latch, which features a secure, concealed electronic release latching solution, can be wired into the Membrane Keypad Access Controller system and when the Controller recognizes the code entered by the user, it will release the R4-EM latch. The user need only push to close the locker door and the latch will re-secure- itself.

 

How can electronic electronic access solutions enhance your locking applications? Tell us in the comments.

 

“If the cost of gas goes any higher, I’m taking the train.” Sound familiar? It’s no secret that the ever-rising cost of gas is forcing many commuters to abandon their normal car ride to work and opt for public transportation instead.  In answer, many railway companies are taking increased ridership by the horns, and making design upgrades to their heavily used railcars.

We recently had a conversation with an engineer who was tasked with redesigning the interior of a local transit company’s  existing railcar. The transit company had requested the engineer to incorporate suggestions obtained through a commuter survey into the design, including improvements to hinges, locking mechanisms embedded in seating.  Of the commuters who provided feedback, a significant number were concerned about having a place to hang their coats, bags and personal belongings during overcrowded peak hours.

Specifically, the engineer was seeking a safe way in which to incorporate coat hooks. In the traditional rail car design, a multi-pronged coat hook protruded from the center of the outer seat panel into the walkway, and often into people forced to stand during peak commuting hours. The challenge was replacing this outdated and potentially dangerous design with something that was both safe and functional.

Our experts suggested Southco’s MP Coat Hook, which remains flush when not in use, and deploys an inner latch, releasing pop-out hook with just the push of a button. It’s ability to remain flush when unused frees up more space, allowing for multiple installations should the design require it. The MP is available with several flange shapes with multiple chrome- or brass-plated finishes to match the stylish new interiors of many mass transportation vehicles – including not only railcars, but buses and airplanes as well.

How will the growth of commuting impact mass transit interior design? Or have an application for a compression latch or position contol hinge you would like to discuss?  Tell us in the comments.

Data center engineers dedicate sizeable amounts of time to designing enclosures, which includes specifying cabinet storage that will ultimately house the complete system.  Factors such as size, materials, rack dimensions, security,  heating and cooling options and the costs associated are all considered by engineers throughout the design, but when it comes to accessibility, it sometimes isn’t approached until the very end of the design process.

We recently had an engineering firm come to us late in the design process with a need to incorporate a multi-point locking system into a tall, upright enclosure door design. The cabinet required a latch that would securely lock its entire length with only one turn. The firm also requested that the system take up minimal space in the overall cabinet design.

Southco engineers suggested one, three-point H3 Swinghandle Multi-point System to secure the enclosure door. When installed, the Swinghandle, which nests into its housing with minimal protrusion, sits on the outside of the cabinet door, and pops up to swing smoothly for easy latch actuation. The cam mechanism sits on the inside of the enclosure door, and a series of rods that run up the entire length of the door are activated by a linear actuator, releasing the latch when the Swinghandle is rotated.

Southco’s H3 is available with multiple offset cams, multi-point latching, and numerous locking and non-locking options that simplify cost-effective configuration. Available in lightweight, robust nylon or heavy-duty die-cast, the H3 is suitable for indoor enclosure cabinet applications across industries.

What types of challenges have you experienced in your enclosure design? Or do you have an application question about latches, hinges or captive fasteners? Tell us in the comments.

It seems like everyone is dieting these days…even our products. The new R4-EM Light Duty Electronic Rotary Latch brings the same proven reliability of the standard steel version but has lost a bit of weight—65% to be exact, thanks to its engineered composite plastic construction. But don’t be misled by the compact package; this latch is big in performance.

A microprocessor control brings energy efficiency, and an integrated mechanical override is included for use should a power failure occur.

Need to know the latch status? The optional microswitch will let you know when the door is locked or unlocked. And if you want to monitor and control complete systems remotely, it’s all possible with this latch.

The R4-EM is simple to use, simple to install and is concealed for hidden access. Add a 12-24 volt DC power supply (and any access control device), and you have a complete electronic access solution.

Visit our website for more information on the entire line of Rotary Latches or any of our other latches, hinges or electronic access solutions.
 
What do you think of the new R4-EM? Drop us a line.

If you’ve ever taken a good look at off-highway equipment that has been left outdoors and exposed to the elements, then you know the damage that is visible from rain, heat and cold.  Well, Southco’s new line of actuators are here, and they are as tough as the elements and are designed for entry door applications. The AC-30 and AC-40 are constructed of corrosion resistant materials and can be used in a wide range of outdoor temperatures.

Both actuators work with Southco R4 rotary latches directly or can be used with cables and rods for a complete rotary latch system. Your equipment will be secure on the job site or roadside due to the key-locking feature with multiple key codes.

The AC-30’s single hole installation enables effective mounting in restricted spaces, and the AC-40 features a large grip handle and single-motion open feature. With the addition of these new actuators, Southco has an even great line of solutions for your most challenging applications. Tell us about it. Or leave a comment. We love to hear from you.

Join Southco at the IFSEC 2011 Tradeshow this week.  We will be displaying our latest Electronic Access Solutions at the Isonas booth, Hall 4 4/E160d.

Our Applications Engineers will be on hand to answer your toughest implementation challenges.

We look forward to seeing you there!

If you are unable to attend, feel free to email our customer service, available around the world 24/7. They are available to discuss electronic access solutions or any of Southco's 40,000 latches, hinges, or locks.

About IFSEC:

IFSEC is the largest annual security event in the UK.

This year's show saw IFSEC continue to offer unrivalled security solutions to more than 22,743 security professionals.

Dedicated to offering all things security, IFSEC offers you the full spectrum of security products and services available both in the UK and worldwide. Housing 600+ leading manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, the 2010 event had a global reach of over 22,743 attendees from 130 countries and was supported by all industry associations and countless media.

It's always nice when a respected publication like PD&D puts one of our new products on their website.

The latest new product to be placed on their site is our EA-KC2 Membrane Keypad Access Controller.

This new keypad can adhere to a frame or door, inside or out. The ability to adhere or be molded into a wide variety of surfaces, combined with connecting it to any one of our Electronic Latches or Locks  brings electronic access to applications that would not have been possible just a few years ago.

Please leave a comment or email us if you would like to hear about some examples of how this new technology is being used in the marketplace.

There is no question-- electronic record keeping is now the norm. But as the technology has advanced, so too has the opportunity to exploit it. Fortunately, a unique partnership has resulted in the industry’s first biometric-integrated latch for computer server racks. Southco has teamed with Digitus Biometrics to secure data right down to the rack level in datacenters.

The db ServerRack access control system marries Southco’s proven H3-EM Electronic Locking Swinghandle with a built-in, multi-stage fingerprint verification and access control system from Digitus Biometrics. It sounds very “CSI,” but it’s actually quite simple and very effective.

The access control unit connects directly to a datacenter’s network via an ordinary connector. User access to cabinets is then managed from a single desktop. No more keys, cards or PIN pads. And 100% accurate validation! Interfaced with a monitoring network, the system can remotely account for all rack activity, including who accessed it, when it was accessed and the duration. An audit trail has never been simpler. The new db ServerRack access control system includes all needed software and is easily and conveniently retrofitted into existing enclosures. 

To view Southco's entire line of Electronic Latches visit our new dedicated Electronic Access Solutions Mini-site and download a copy of our electronic latching guide.