REX Button Preference

I liked using the ACC pneumatic series, but it was a little more expensive than the Securitron buttons. Also, I like the EEBs, but I also liked the red LED above the green button on the PB series, just for showing whether the lock is powered or not. I always wired them so the LED was lit when locked, and the button was lit when in use.

As for the Securitron bars we have used them quite often. Lifetime warranty as well on all their stuff. A better solution in my opinion for that application is a mechanical bar like an RCI 120 with an internal mechanical switch. Mechanically breaking the magnet is better than relying on electronics (touch sensor) to do it for you.

As for the button, correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't the Securitron EEB depend on having electricity for the timer to countdown the thirty seconds? Isn't a pneumatic timer like Ethan suggested (we use those too) a better solution? Does NFPA specifically require a pneumatic solution or is a powered timer adequate?

With a mechanical switch in the bar and a pneumatic button you don't need any electricity to deactivate your devices. It's also a snap to wire up this way without having to power up everything.

"Does NFPA specifically require a pneumatic solution or is a powered timer adequate?"

NFPA does not specify either type. Alarmingly, nor does it specify a delay interval the lock must be unlocked! Yikes! (see Deadly Pushbuttons for why this is a problem) It does specify a visibility requirement, which may bias selection toward an electronic type:

NFPA 101 – 2009:
7.2.1.5.9 A latch or other fastening device on a door leaf shall be provided with a releasing device that has an obvious method of operation and that is readily operated under all lighting conditions.
7.2.1.5.9.1 The releasing mechanism for any latch, other than for existing installations, shall be located not less than 34 in. (865 mm), and not more than 48 in. (1220 mm), above the finished floor.
7.2.1.5.9.2 The releasing mechanism shall open the door leaf with not more than one releasing operation, unless otherwise specified in 7.2.1.5.9.3 and 7.2.1.5.9.4.
7.2.1.5.9.3* Egress door assemblies from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided with devices, including automatic latching devices, that require not more than one additional releasing operation, provided that such device is operable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and is mounted at a height not exceeding 48 in. (1220 mm) above the finished floor.
7.2.1.5.9.4 Existing security devices permitted by 7.2.1.5.9.3 shall be permitted to have two additional releasing operations.

In my opinion, the most useful piece of code comes from IBC on the issue of RTE.

IBC part 1008.1.4.4 (2012):

"A manual unlocking device (push button) shall result in direct interruption of power to the lock – independent of the access control system electronics. When the push button is actuated, the doors must remain unlocked for 30 seconds minimum. The push button must include signage stating “Push to Exit” and must be located 40” to 48” vertically above the floor and within 5’ of the doors. Ready access must be provided to the push button."

Most jurisdictions in the US adopt IBC in addition to NFPA 101, so the '30 second' interval is the standard. However, neither code specifies 'pneumatic' or 'electric' RTE type.

Has anyone used an exit device switch kit in conjunction with or in place of a button/motion?

Would they meet code as they aren’t labeled "Push to Exit"? But using an existing push bar would require no special knowledge. (This is of course assuming the exit device couldn't be fitted with a retractable latch mechanism which would eliminate the need for mag lock in the first place)

"if the button is not powered neither is the maglock. Loss of power means unlocked on a maglock"

While that is true 99.9% of the time, the possibility exists that a problem local to the door like a poor connection, crimp in the wire, rodent or other issue could cause the switch to lose power while the mag lock remains energized. In this extremely rare possibiliy, you would no longer have a 30 second delay.