This IP55 rated lock cylinder is available in either a Scandinavian Oval or European DIN 18252 format design. It is based on a kinetic energy recovery system to allow battery free power and key communication.
NFC (Near Field Communication) technology is used for key updates and allowing use as a credential on compatible wired or wireless access control system doors. Assa Abloy Incedo software is used to administer access rights.
Construction
The cylinder is encased in an oval non-ferrous housing that can be supplied in Bright Chrome, Satin Chrome, Stainless Look, or Nickel finish. Two M5 screw holes are used to secure the cylinder into the door unit.
The central electronic assembly of the cylinder has a diameter of 13.8 mm and slides into the 14 mm aperture which has a slotted top section for alignment. An internal circlip hold the assembly firmly in place. Any attempts at forcing would likely shear the internal structure without releasing the mechanism.
The Pulse key relies on its programmed data for access rights and therefore the physical key has no individual or lock specific pattern that can be copied.
Operation
Inserting the Pulse key forces a central actuator that drives a geared micro-generator to provide sufficient charge for the internal electronics. The Pulse key has a pair of contacts that engage with sprung contacts within the cylinder as the key is fully inserted. These contact pairs are commoned and ground referenced to the key shaft, this ensures the key can be inserted either way round and provides a level of connection redundancy.
Once contact is made the cylinder and key communicate using a bi-directional serial data stream. Two small LEDs are mounted with one on each edge of the key and these both give three rapid flashes to confirm valid data transfer.
A small electromagnetic field burst can be detected on key insertion but no data is emitted.
The cylinder begins its communication with the Pulse key with a 3v negative going serial data stream that appears to be at a rate of 400kb/s.
The cylinder memory supports up to 70 authorised groups, a 100 key blacklist and a 500 event audit trail. Testing to beyond 200,000 opening cycles has been undertaken exceeding the requirements of SFF3522.
The Pulse key can also be used as a credential on compatible wired or wireless access control doors.
Read the full review in the September 2022 edition of PSI magazine
