Introduction to the CDVI RTE-85E and its key features
The CDVI RTE-85E Stainless Steel All-Active Exit Push Plate (IP65) is a purpose-built egress device designed for busy public and commercial environments where reliable, easy operation and durability are essential. With a brushed 304 stainless steel faceplate, a green "EXIT" legend and edge, and a full-face active surface, the RTE-85E removes the need for pinpoint pressing — the whole plate activates the switch. Its IP65-rated enclosure protects the unit from water and routine cleaning, making it particularly well suited to healthcare, education and care settings. The unit fits a standard UK back-box and uses a heavy-duty microswitch with NO/NC contacts for flexible wiring in access-control systems.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The RTE-85E is built around a compact, robust design focused on long-term reliability and accessibility. Key specifications include:
- Manufacturer / Model:CDVI RTE-85E.
- Material:Brushed 304 stainless steel faceplate for corrosion resistance and a professional appearance.
- Activation:Entire faceplate is active — no precise targeting required.
- IP rating:IP65, providing protection against low-pressure water jets and complete dust ingress prevention; suitable for wet areas and frequent cleaning.
- Electrical contacts:Heavy-duty microswitch with normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contacts; typical contact rating 2 A @ 24 Vdc (refer to datasheet for full ratings).
- Dimensions & mounting:85.5 mm × 85.5 mm face; depth 50 mm and designed to fit a 40 mm standard UK back-box; recommended mounting height 900–1,100 mm for common accessibility guidelines.
- Weight:Approximately 0.43 kg.
Benefits of these specifications translate directly into real-world advantages:
- Accessibility:The all-active face simplifies operation for users with limited dexterity, those carrying items, or children and older adults who may find small buttons difficult to use.
- Durability:Brushed 304 stainless steel resists corrosion, scratches and wear; suitable for high-traffic entrances and environments that require frequent cleaning.
- Hygiene and maintenance:IP65 enclosure means the plate withstands cleaning with water-based methods and resists dust ingress — ideal for hospital wards, clinics and food-prep areas.
- Installation flexibility:Fits standard UK back-box profiles and provides both NO and NC contacts to suit a wide range of access-control wiring schemes.
While the RTE-85E is straightforward to install for a qualified electrician or access-control installer, it is important to follow CDVI’s datasheet and installation manual for correct wiring, contact rating limits and any local electrical regulations. The device is designed for DC operation (see datasheet for full UK/European compliance and wiring diagrams). The recommended mounting height of 900–1,100 mm aligns with many accessibility recommendations to provide ease of use.
Use cases and scenarios where the RTE-85E excels
The RTE-85E is suited to a wide range of applications where robust, reliable egress control and easy operation are required. Typical scenarios include:
- Healthcare facilities:Hospitals, clinics and care homes benefit from the full-face activation and stainless-steel construction. Staff and patients can exit rooms quickly without needing to aim for a small button, and the IP65 rating helps the plate survive frequent cleaning and disinfecting.
- Education:Schools and universities experience high footfall and occasional rough usage. The RTE-85E’s heavy-duty build and vandal-resistant material make it a sensible choice for corridors, classrooms and communal areas.
- Commercial buildings:Office receptions, retail back-of-house areas and warehouses where ease of egress and long-life components reduce maintenance costs.
- Assisted-living and care homes:Residents often require devices that do not demand fine motor skills. The all-active plate reduces frustration and increases safety by making egress intuitive.
- Cleaning and wet environments:Locations that require frequent washdowns such as kitchens, food preparation areas and certain industrial environments where IP65 protection is required.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
Choosing an exit device involves balancing durability, accessibility, cost and system compatibility. Here’s how the RTE-85E compares to several common alternatives:
Traditional small push buttons are inexpensive and compact, but they require accurate targeting and can be difficult for people with limited dexterity. The RTE-85E’s full-face activation eliminates these usability issues and offers greater durability due to its stainless steel faceplate. Cost-wise, the RTE-85E (suggested price 89.99) is typically higher than a basic push-button but offers better longevity and accessibility.
Touchless sensors are attractive for hygiene because they avoid contact. However, they can be more expensive, may need additional power or configuration, and can be prone to false triggers in very busy or reflective environments. The RTE-85E provides a tactile, reliable momentary activation that doesn’t rely on environmental sensing and has lower ongoing maintenance complexity.
Piezo and capacitive devices offer high durability and waterproof ratings and can rival the RTE-85E on ingress protection. Piezo plates often cost more but may last longer because they have no mechanical switches. The RTE-85E’s heavy-duty microswitch offers familiar wiring options (NO/NC) and straightforward troubleshooting for installers, making it a practical mid-range choice where cost, serviceability and proven performance are priorities.
Lower-cost plastic plates are vulnerable to wear, vandalism and cleaning chemicals. Painted steel improves durability but can chip or rust. Brushed 304 stainless steel, as used in the RTE-85E, provides a premium, corrosion-resistant finish that is easier to clean and maintain over time.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While official third-party reviews may vary by installer and end-user, common themes among professionals who choose full-face stainless steel plates like the RTE-85E include:
- "Simplicity and reliability — patients and staff can exit quickly without confusion."
- "Stainless finish holds up to cleaning solutions better than painted plates."
- "Easy to wire with NO/NC contacts and fits standard back-boxes, so installs are fast."
These representative comments reflect why many facilities managers and electrical contractors specify all-active plates in demanding environments. For detailed performance data and specific customer testimonials, consult your supplier or the CDVI product page and datasheet.
Conclusion: Why the CDVI RTE-85E is a strong choice
The CDVI RTE-85E Stainless Steel All-Active Exit Push Plate is a pragmatic, well-balanced egress device that prioritises accessibility, durability and ease of installation. Its all-active face improves usability for a wide range of people, while the 304 stainless steel construction and IP65 protection make it suitable for environments that demand frequent cleaning or resist corrosion. The heavy-duty microswitch with NO/NC contacts offers wiring flexibility for common access-control systems, and the unit’s form factor fits standard UK back-box installation practice.
For hospitals, schools, care homes, commercial sites and any application where reliability and ease of use are critical, the RTE-85E delivers a robust solution at a competitive suggested price point ( 89.99). Installers should refer to the CDVI datasheet and manual for wiring, contact ratings and compliance details, and ensure installation is performed by a qualified professional in line with local regulations.
Overall, the RTE-85E stands out as a dependable, accessible and low-maintenance exit plate choice for high-traffic and sensitive environments — combining practical features with a finish that lasts.
