When choosing an electric locking device for an access control system, you will often see products described as either monitored or non-monitored.
Both can electronically secure and release a door, but a monitored lock provides additional status feedback that can be used by an access control or security system.
This guide explains the difference and when each type may be suitable.
What Is a Monitored Electric Lock?
A monitored electric locking device contains an additional contact or sensor that provides feedback about the condition of the lock.
Depending on the product, monitoring may indicate whether:
- the lock is securely engaged
- a maglock has correctly bonded with its armature
- an electric bolt has fully extended
- the door is open or closed
For example, the RGL ML600-M Monitored Slimline 600lb Maglock provides lock-status monitoring alongside its normal electromagnetic locking function.
Where both lock status and door status are required, the RGL ML1200-MDS 1200lb Maglock provides additional monitoring capability.
You can also browse our full range of maglocks and magnetic door locks.
What Is a Non-Monitored Electric Lock?
A non-monitored electric lock still secures and releases the door electronically, but it does not normally provide confirmation that the lock has physically returned to its secure position.
For many straightforward access control installations, this is perfectly adequate.
Benefits can include:
- simpler wiring
- fewer connections
- lower purchase cost
- quicker installation
The Adams Rite 7100 Electric Strike, for example, provides an unmonitored electric strike option for compatible aluminium doors.
See our complete range of electric strikes.
How Does Monitoring Work on a Maglock?
Monitoring is particularly common on electromagnetic maglocks.
A standard maglock uses an electromagnet and armature plate to secure the door. A monitored maglock adds an electrical monitoring contact that can provide feedback to the access control system.
This can help identify situations where:
- the door hasn’t fully closed
- the armature is misaligned
- an obstruction is preventing the door securing
- the lock hasn’t achieved the expected secure condition
For standard applications, the ML600-M Monitored 600lb Maglock is a compact option.
For higher-security installations, the SML-3000 High Security Monitored Lock provides a significantly higher holding force.
Does a Monitored Maglock Tell You If the Door Is Open?
Not necessarily.
A lock or bond monitor provides information about the locking device.
A door-status monitor provides information about whether the actual door is open or closed.
Some products offer both, while others only monitor the lock.
For example, the ML1200-MDS Maglock incorporates both lock-status and door-status monitoring.
Always check the specification of the individual product rather than assuming every monitored lock provides the same type of feedback.
Can Electric Strikes and Electric Bolts Be Monitored?
Yes. Monitoring isn’t limited to maglocks.
Certain electric strikes are available with monitoring, including the Adams Rite 7101 Monitored Electric Strike.
Monitoring is also available on some shear locks and electric bolts.
For example, the SSB-300 Surface-Mounted Solenoid Bolt incorporates monitoring and can be useful where a bolt-style locking arrangement is more suitable than a maglock.
When Should You Use a Monitored Lock?
A monitored lock is worth considering when it is important for the wider system to know whether the locking device has actually returned to its secure state.
Common applications include:
- commercial buildings
- restricted areas
- server and communications rooms
- multi-door access control systems
- higher-security doors
- remotely monitored premises
Monitoring can also provide useful information for fault reporting, security alerts and access-control event logs.
When Is a Non-Monitored Lock Suitable?
For a simple access-controlled door, monitoring may not be necessary.
Typical examples include:
- small offices
- stock rooms
- internal staff doors
- standalone keypad systems
- simple intercom door release systems
A basic system could combine a maglock or electric strike with an access control keypad or fob reader, an exit button and a correctly sized access control power supply.
For customers wanting a complete solution, our access control and door entry kits combine compatible components for common installations.
Monitored Is Not the Same as Fail-Safe or Fail-Secure
Monitoring should not be confused with fail-safe or fail-secure operation.
Monitored vs non-monitored describes whether the lock provides status feedback.
Fail-safe vs fail-secure describes what happens when power is removed.
Most maglocks are fail-safe because removing power releases the magnet.
An electric strike may instead be available in either fail-safe or fail-secure configurations depending on the product.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose a non-monitored electric lock where you simply require reliable electronic locking and unlocking.
Choose a monitored electric lock where lock status, door status or integration with a wider security system is important.
Before selecting a product, also consider the door type, voltage, current consumption, holding force, fail-safe/fail-secure operation and mounting requirements.
Browse our ranges of maglocks, electric strikes, shear locks and electric bolts and complete access control kits.
This article is intended as a general guide only. Electric locking devices, monitoring functions and installation requirements vary between products and manufacturers. Always check the manufacturer’s technical information and ensure the complete access control, fire safety and means-of-escape arrangement is suitable for the particular installation and applicable requirements. Where necessary, seek advice from a competent access control professional.
