Key Switches

Key switches give authorised users secure control over automatic doors, access-control inputs, gates, shutters and other building-control functions. Unlike a standard push button, operation requires the correct key, making them useful for door-mode selection, controlled overrides and staff-only switching.

This collection includes maintained and momentary key switches, two-, three- and four-position selectors, slimline architrave and jamb-mounted controls, IP-rated weatherproof models, roller-shutter controls, replacement keys and red/green LED indicators. The correct model depends on the switching action, number of positions, contact arrangement, mounting format and environmental protection required by the connected equipment.

Automatic door key switches

For automatic door installations, the switch positions must match the functions supported by the door operator. The EXT/AP/KS-3 slimline automatic door keyswitch provides HOLD OPEN / OFF / AUTO selection in a narrow architrave format, while the JMB/KS-3 offers the same type of three-position control in a jamb-style plate. Where additional modes are required, the JMB/KS-4 provides OFF / 2 WAY / 1 WAY / HOLD OPEN positions.

For simple enable/disable control, options include the stainless steel KS-1 ON/OFF keyswitch, the slimline EXT/AP/KS-1 and the jamb-mounted JMB/KS-1.

Maintained or momentary operation?

A maintained or latching keyswitch stays in the selected position after the key is turned. This is useful for functions such as ON/OFF control, door-mode selection and persistent override. A momentary keyswitch only provides a temporary switching signal, which is appropriate where the connected controller handles the latching or logic internally.

The KS-2 is a momentary ON/OFF model, while the KS-3MOM provides momentary AUTO / OFF / OPEN control. Always check the controller input requirements before choosing between maintained and momentary operation.

Slimline, jamb and standard mounting

Slimline architrave switches are useful on narrow aluminium profiles and door frames where a standard single-gang plate is too wide. Jamb switches provide a taller 120mm x 50mm format for fitting on or alongside a door frame. Standard single-gang switches provide a familiar square faceplate for wall or general control-point installation.

Blank-faceplate options such as the EXT/AP/KS1-BL and EXT/AP/KS2-BLANK are available where the project requires a custom control legend rather than a pre-marked function.

Weatherproof and external key switches

External or exposed installations should use a model with suitable ingress protection. The WP-KS-1 provides IP65 maintained ON/OFF control, the WP-KS-2 provides IP65 momentary control, and the WP-KS3CO offers weatherproof CLOSE / centre / OPEN momentary control. For more demanding environments, the WP-VPKS-1 uses an IP66 die-cast aluminium enclosure.

Roller shutter and specialist controls

The RSKS3-MOM roller shutter keyswitch is a heavy-duty 230VAC, 16A momentary control for roller shutters and industrial doors. Where an exposed roller-shutter control needs additional physical protection, the RSSB and retrofit RSSB-NBP provide padlockable steel security enclosures.

The DU-KS/2 combines a momentary keyswitch and resettable emergency door release in one housing, making it useful where both authorised control and emergency release are required at the same location.

Key types and replacement keys

RGL key switches use different key barrels, so replacement keys must match the existing switch. This collection includes 2803 replacement keys, KS2 replacement key blanks and 606 replacement keys. Check the existing key number or switch model before ordering.

Red and green LED status indicators

The TLI-45 architrave indicator and TLI-85 single-gang indicator provide red/green visual status indication for compatible access-control and automatic-door systems. Both operate from 12–24VDC at approximately 20mA.

Choosing the correct key switch

Before ordering, confirm the required number of positions, maintained or momentary action, contact arrangement, key-removal position, mounting format, ingress rating and controller wiring. Voltage-free contacts provide a switching signal but do not supply power to the connected device, and they should not be confused with the electrical load rating of the equipment being controlled.

For the rest of the system, browse our automatic door parts, access control equipment, push buttons and domes, maglocks and relays.