Multifunction Maglock (Securitron M680)
A new maglock claims to be 'smarter' and more 'stylish' than the rest. Is it useful, or is it a complex gimmick? In this note, we examine this product, its features, and compare it to similar multi-function maglocks.
A Maglock with Options
The Securitron M680 Series offers low profile, 1100 pound holding force maglocks, including automatic voltage detection, status LEDs, and bond sensors. The integrated door position switch can be tied into electronic access controls for live door status feedback. The base unit is stylized with rounded edges and the options for various architectural finishes.
Three advanced options are available:
- PIR Sensor (Part Number: M680BDX) : This version features a field adjustable motion detector inside the housing, preconfigured to disable the maglock from the inside (egress side) of the opening when the beam is broken. PIRs are frequently paired with maglocks so that traffic can exit through a secured door without breaking stride or pressing additional buttons. The street pricing for this version is about $700 .
- CCTV Camera (Part Number: M680BDC/2): This version features an integrated analog B/W or Color CCTV camera within the housing. Performance values varies according to type selected, but feature 112 degree horizontal FoV. Neither model features WDR or IR cutfilters and one needs to choose between b/w or color (no day/night option). The street pricing for either option is about $850.
- Combo Unit (Part Number: M680BDC2X): This version features both PIR and Camera features in a single unit. The steet pricing for this version is about $900.
The manufacturer's promotional video below gives a overview of the unit and it's basic features:
Value
The appeal of the M680 is the combination of camera, motion sensor, and stylized design together in a single unit. Other available locks may feature one such attribute - for example, the Locknetics 390PIR from IR, but their use is limited due to style, cost, or special installation constraints.
Of the three options, the model with the most universal value is the PIR integrated unit. Since motion sensors are commonly required by code to be installed with maglocks, this is a natural pairing of devices. Combining both in a single unit speeds up installation time and reduces materials compare with installing two seperate units.
The maglock styling, including architectural finish options for Polished Brass, Satin Brass, Satin Black, and Satin Chrome are not commonly found in maglock offerings. Most maglock manufacturers offer 'concealed' or 'flush mount' designs designed to be installed into the frame rather than leave an exposed case, as shown in the image below:
When use on perimeter or entry doors, the M680 stands to be more aesthetically pleasing when chosen in a finish color that matches the frame or door hardware.
Limitations
The most significant disadvantage of the M680 is they can only be installed on 'outswinging' doors. Maglocks typically feature an additional armature or Z-bracket designed so they can be mounted on inswinging doors. Due to the orientation of the unit required for the PIR and/or camera to operate, no such option will be available for the M680 series.
Additionally, while we have not tested the CCTV version, the mounting location of the camera alone along the top edge of the door places it in poor relative viewing location. Regardless of the wide horizontal field of view, placing a camera in a fixed location on the door frame may be subject to dynamic lighting issues, glare, and may inevitibly record the tops of heads and hats rather than the traffic passing through the doors.
Comparison
While maglocks integrated with CCTV and PIR sensors together are rare, examples featuring motion detectors andsurveillance cameras [link no longer available] can be found. However, the M680 series features both components in architectural finishes cannot be found in current production alternatives.
The $900 Combo Unit is composed of parts equivalent to the following:
- 1100 Pound Holding Force Single Maglock (Dynalock 3000HSM): ~$350 USD
- Standalone Adjustable PIR (Bosch DS150i): ~$60 USD
- B/W or Color Analog Dome Camera: ~$75 USD
- Door Position Contacts: ~$15 USD
Together the hardware cost of these components is ~$500, and assuming an additional three hours of labor @ $60 per hour brings the total cost of the 'piecemeal' solution to ~$700.
Compared to the ~$900 cost of the M680, the piecemeal solution is less expensive and ultimately may provide better performance due to better camera positioning. However, in locations where aesthetics is a design concern, the M680 provides integration functions in a single unit.