Introduction to the Ajax KeyPad Plus and its key features
The Ajax KeyPad Plus (KeyPad+) is a modern wireless touch keypad and contactless access reader designed for Ajax security systems. Combining capacitive touch controls with DESFire contactless card support, the KeyPad Plus offers an intuitive, fast way to arm and disarm systems, activate Night mode, trigger panic or duress alarms, and run automation scenarios — all without a smartphone. Reliable two‑way Jeweller radio communication, multi‑year battery life, and built‑in anti‑sabotage protections make this device a strong option for both residential and light commercial installations.
Key features at a glance:
- Contactless access via DESFire EV1/EV2 (ISO14443‑A) cards and Tag key fobs.
- Capacitive touch keypad with dedicated Arm, Disarm, Night, and Panic buttons.
- Secure Jeweller two‑way radio protocol with encryption and jamming detection.
- Pre‑installed 4×AA batteries with typical life of ~3.5–4.5 years (usage dependent).
- Tamper detection, authentication and periodic supervision for anti‑sabotage protection.
- Designed to work with Ajax Hubs (Hub Plus, Hub 2, Hub 2 Plus, Hub Hybrid) and ReX range extenders.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the specifications helps assess whether the KeyPad Plus fits your installation needs. Below is a concise breakdown of the device’s key technical attributes and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Dimensions: 165 × 113 × 20 mm — a low‑profile design that mounts neatly next to doors or reception counters.
- Weight: 267 g — light enough for easy mounting yet robust in feel.
- Operating temperature: −10°C to +40°C; operating humidity: up to 75% non‑condensing — suitable for most indoor environments.
- Power source: 4×AA (FR6) batteries, 1.5 V each, shipped pre‑installed.
- Battery life: Up to ~3.5–4.5 years depending on reader usage and settings — translates to low maintenance for end users and installers.
- Capacitive touch keypad with dedicated Arm/Disarm/Night/Panic buttons — modern, responsive input that reduces wear compared with mechanical keys.
- Contactless: DESFire EV1/EV2 (ISO14443‑A, 13.56 MHz) compatibility — secure card/fob technology widely used in access control.
- Personal codes: Device keypad code + up to 200 personal codes (hub dependent) and duress code support — flexible user management for households and multi‑user premises.
- Jeweller two‑way radio (encrypted) — offers frequent supervision, reliable communication and efficient power usage.
- Radio power: Self‑adjusting RF output up to 20 mW (region dependent).
- Range: Published open‑space communication up to ~1,700 m (actual range varies with installation and environment) — suitable for larger properties when combined with ReX extenders.
- Configurable ping period: 12–300 s — trade off between responsiveness and battery life can be tuned.
- Anti‑sabotage features: Tamper detection, authentication, jamming detection and block encryption — these reduce the risk of interception or physical tampering.
- Certification: Manufacturer states EN 50131 compliance — alignment with industry standards for alarm equipment.
- Compatible hubs: Hub Plus, Hub 2, Hub 2 Plus, Hub Hybrid, and ReX — check hub firmware versions for advanced feature support.
Practical benefits
- Ease of access: Contactless DESFire cards and tags make entry and arming quick and hygienic, especially useful where speed and touchless operation matter.
- Low maintenance: AA battery power with multi‑year life and a wireless install reduces cabling time and cost.
- High security: DESFire is more secure than legacy card standards; combined with the encrypted Jeweller link and tamper alerts, this device prioritises system integrity.
- Flexibility: Supports large numbers of personal codes and cards, plus a duress code option, so it can support families, staff, and managed properties.
Use cases and scenarios where the KeyPad Plus excels
The KeyPad Plus is versatile and fits a range of installations. Below are scenarios where this device particularly shines.
- Families who prefer contactless arming and disarming can use cards or fobs rather than mobile apps — ideal for guests, children or elderly residents who may not use phones.
- Duress code support gives occupants a discreet way to signal an alarm while appearing to disarm the system.
- Receptionists can quickly arm/disarm or trigger preset automation (lighting, door locks) without needing centralised control.
- Staff access control is simplified through personal codes or DESFire credentials, and up to 200 codes (hub dependent) supports modestly sized teams.
- Contactless cards are an efficient way to hand out short‑term credentials to cleaners, contractors or short‑stay tenants without sharing mobile credentials.
- Tamper detection and event logging help building managers track access and respond quickly to incidents.
- Wireless installation removes the need to route control wires to every door or reception, reducing installation time and disruption in retrofit projects.
How it compares with similar products on the market
Choosing the right arming keypad often means balancing security, convenience and cost. Here’s how KeyPad Plus stacks up against common alternatives.
- Installation: Wireless KeyPad Plus installs faster and avoids cable runs; wired keypads require more labour but do not depend on battery replacement.
- Reliability: Wired units are not subject to RF interference; KeyPad Plus mitigates this with Jeweller’s robust protocol and jamming detection.
- Accessibility: Not everyone carries or wants to use a smartphone for arming — KeyPad Plus provides a simple local interface and contactless cards for fast access.
- Redundancy: The keypad offers a reliable fallback when phones are low on battery, lost, or restricted.
- Security: DESFire EV1/EV2 is generally more secure than legacy MIFARE Classic formats, offering better protection against cloning and attacks.
- Compatibility: Many access systems still use various ISO14443‑A variants; choosing DESFire provides a modern, standards‑based approach for long‑term security.
Some competing products from other vendors offer similar features (contactless readers, touch inputs, wireless links). The KeyPad Plus differentiates itself through tight integration with Ajax Hubs and the Jeweller radio ecosystem, offering streamlined provisioning, supervision and consistent event reporting. When selecting a device, consider system compatibility, support for DESFire credentials, battery life, and local certification.
Customer feedback and testimonials
Direct, published customer reviews for this exact model may be limited in some retail channels, but common feedback themes from installers and end users of Ajax keypads include:
- "Quick to install and pair with the hub" — installers often report the Ajax ecosystem makes provisioning straightforward and reduces commissioning time.
- "Contactless tags are convenient for staff and visitors" — small businesses value handing out fobs rather than sharing app access.
- "Battery life is impressive" — users cite long intervals between battery replacements as a real benefit for busy sites.
- "Robust tamper and alarm reporting" — property managers appreciate clear event history and timely notifications via Ajax apps.
Note: If detailed, verified customer reviews are required for marketing or compliance, seek retailer review listings or ask the supplier for case studies and references specific to KeyPad Plus installations.
Conclusion: why choose the Ajax KeyPad Plus
The Ajax KeyPad Plus offers a compelling mix of convenience, security and flexibility. Its DESFire contactless support and capacitive touch controls make everyday operation quick and modern, while the Jeweller radio protocol and anti‑sabotage features protect system integrity. Multi‑year battery life and wireless installation reduce ongoing maintenance and installation costs, making it an attractive option for homeowners, small businesses, and managed properties.
In summary, choose the KeyPad Plus if you want a touch‑responsive, contactless arming solution that integrates tightly with Ajax Hubs, supports secure credential formats, and offers the practical benefits of wireless installation and long battery life. Verify hub firmware and installation requirements during planning, and pair it with the appropriate Ajax Hub and ReX extenders for larger sites to maximise range and reliability.
