1. Connections
Topology of
Apollo ACS

2. Traditional – RS-485 Serial
Access Control systems often use serial data communication between devices and the host. This is generally RS-485 wiring which is simple, fast and highly reliable. RS-485 operates by measuring the voltage differential on the line and translates this to 1s and 0s that make up the data stream. Typically there are four wires, two for transmitting and two for receiving. Only the ‘Master’ transmits on the transmit line, and the ‘slave’ devices only listen on this line. The opposite is true for the receive line.
RS-485 has the following specs:
Max Distance: 4000ft
Devices: 32
Data Rate: 10Mbps (max)
Since each line is limited to 32 devices, the AAN-100 controller uses 4 RS-485 loops to be able to support 96 readers.
Many sites use RS-485 for device wiring and network for host connection. Remember you’ll need a serial port on the computer.
Problems on an RS-485 line can usually be diagnosed using a multi-meter, making it much more simple that detecting problems on a complicated Ethernet network.
When working with RS-485 remember:
-Use quality cable! This is perhaps the cause of most problems. CAT5 is NOT SUPPORTED!
-Beware of ground faults
-Use proper termination (ATM-48), especially for long runs
-Use bus configuration, not star (unless using the APM-10 star wiring converter)

3. Serial with Network Host
Probably the most common type of installation today uses traditional RS-485 wiring for controller-device communication, but uses network connection between host and controller. This allows for flexible placement of the host computer and controllers can be easily located near devices, the only requirement is to have a network connection between them.

4. Network based
DB Server
The new trend is connecting all devices directly to the network. This can be a great cost savings if network wiring is already in place. This is also very flexible because with proper network hardware, distance is not an issue.
To connect to the host via network, AAN-32/100 controllers need ANI-100 network interface. To connect devices to controller on the network, there must be an ENI at the device port on the controller and also on the field device.
When working with ACS on the network remember:
-No delays! If the network is slow, doors will open slow in normal configuration (can be overcome with local access grant)
-Make sure the ports you are using are open on the network. Many routers will block or give lower priority to unknown ports
-Check the route. Make sure that devices have a valid route between them.

5. hybrid
DB Server
Sometimes also useful is to have a combination of network and serial, for example when a system setup on serial is expanded using network. By using the ENI-110, a serial line can be started at any point on the network. The device ports on the AAN-100 can also be mixed, some can use network communication while others use serial at the same time.

6. Reader connections
The ‘end of the line’ is where the ACS actually connects to readers and doors which happens at the reader interface. At a minimum usually connected are a reader and a lock. Other typical devices are exit push button (used when there is only one reader at the door) and a door contact switch .
Reader connection: Lines for power and data (required), LED control, Beeper control.
Door contact: Simple contact closure input that checks if the door is closed or not.
Exit push button: Simple contact closure that allows the door to open without an alarm being reported when not using a card.
Auxiliary input: Can be used for any other type of alarm including reader tamper (loop wire running with reader wire to detect if cable is cut), monitoring nearby doors that are not equipped with a reader, or connecting any kind of alarm sensor.
(normally closed)

7. locks Fail Secure Fail Safe
The ultimate ‘goal’ of ACS is to open the door, and of course there must be a lock (or gate, turnstile, barrier) to achieve this. In general, there are two types of locks:
Electric Strike – Uses a break away strike surface to allow the latch to pass.
Electromagnetic – An electromagnet that stays energized to keep a metal plate attached to the door secure thus preventing it being opened.
For purposes of wiring, these are further qualified by the type of locking action:
Fail-secure – When there is a (power) failure, the lock will remained closed (i.e. ‘secure’). This means that power must be applied to open the lock. Fail secure locks are wired to the ‘C’ and ‘NC’ poles of the strike relay.
Fail-safe – When there is a failure, the lock will open (so people can ‘safely’ exit). This means that power must be removed to open the lock. All magnetic locks are in this category. Fail safe locks are wired to the ‘C’ and ‘NO’ poles of the strike relay.
Don’t forget:
-Regulatory restrictions may have a say in what type of locks you use
-Use suppressors or you will burn locks and/or equipment
Fail
Safe

8. Locks – High security relays
For more secure installations or for flexible installation options, Apollo offers secure, remote door strike relays:
ADA-10 – A weather-proof potted module with 1 relay
ADA-11 – Indoor version with 1 relay
These relay devices are connected to AIM-XSL reader interfaces via a secure communication loop and can be located in very close proximity to the actual door strike. With this configuration, an intruder cannot tamper with extended strike wiring to open the door. The only unprotected wiring is located between the ADA and the lock (very short).
The ADA modules can also be used for Auxiliary Relay outputs, either for adding an additional relay (AUX 2) or duplicating the function of an onboard relay. The strike relay can also be used as a duplicate—in all cases the onboard relay of the AIM-XSL will continue to function normally when an external relay is also used.
The ADA has the following function options:
Strike Relay – Identical function to onboard strike relay
Local Alarm – Activates on any alarm on the reader (tamper, aux input, door
forced/held open)
Aux Relay 1 – Auxiliary Relay
Aux Relay 2 – Auxiliary Relay