Introduction: meet the Ajax Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra (Graphite)
Ajax Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra (Graphite)is a professional-grade, wired access keypad designed for demanding outdoor and indoor environments. Built to EN 50131 Grade 3 standards and rated IP66/IK08 for weather and impact resistance, this keypad integrates with Ajax Fibra wired systems to provide secure, reliable entry control. It supports multiple authentication modes — DESFire contactless cards, tag keyfobs, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) smartphone access and PIN codes — and includes large illuminated mechanical buttons that remain glove-friendly in cold climates. With tamper detection and configurable panic/duress functions, it is engineered for high-security perimeters, gated entrances and industrial sites where resilient access control is essential.
Key features at a glance
- Wired Fibra communication:encrypted two-way bus for reliable professional installations.
- Weather and impact resistance:IP66 ingress protection and IK08 impact rating.
- Multi-mode authentication:DESFire (ISO 14443-A, 13.56 MHz), tags, BLE smartphone access and PINs.
- Security grade:Designed to EN 50131 Grade 3 for high-risk environments.
- Installation range:long Fibra line runs up to 2,000 m with recommended cable (U/UTP Cat.5).
- User capacity:supports approximately 50 registered users/devices/codes (hub dependent).
- Low power draw:7–30 V DC bus supply, typical ≤25 mA at 24 V.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra uses Ajaxs Fibra two-way wired protocol, providing encrypted communications between the keypad and the control hub. Compared with many wireless alternatives, a wired Fibra connection eliminates concerns about RF interference, radio range limitations and battery replacement. The keypad accepts a wide input voltage range (730 V DC) and draws low current (typically under 25 mA at 24 V), making it simple to integrate into existing access-control power arrangements. For installations that require long cable runs, Fibra supports distances up to 2,000 m when using recommended cable (U/UTP Cat.5), enabling flexible placement for gates, remote entrances and perimeter posts.
Security systems need to match how people actually gain access. The Superior KeyPad supports DESFire EV1/EV2/EV3 (ISO 14443-A, 13.56 MHz) contactless cards, tag keyfobs, and Bluetooth Low Energy for smartphone-based entry, in addition to traditional PIN codes. DESFire brings strong cryptographic protection compared with older card standards; BLE allows convenient mobile credentials and short-term permissions, while PINs and tags provide redundancy and flexibility. Combined, these methods let administrators mix and match credential types for staff, contractors and visitors without replacing hardware.
Rated IP66, the unit resists heavy dust and powerful water jets, making it suitable for exposed locations. IK08 impact resistance adds protection against vandalism and accidental impact, while the operating temperature range (−25 °C to +60 °C) ensures functionality in harsh climates. The keypads robust mechanical buttons are illuminated and glove-friendly, a practical feature for security personnel and residents in cold or industrial settings.
Designed to EN 50131 Grade 3, the Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra meets requirements for high-threat environments. The device includes tamper detection and configurable panic/duress/functional buttons so installations can trigger alarms or custom actions when needed. For systems that must meet regulatory inspections or insurance conditions, this Grade 3 designation helps demonstrate compliance when properly installed and commissioned by a professional.
Use cases and scenarios where the keypad excels
- Perimeter and gated entrances:long cable capabilities and weatherproof design make the keypad ideal for vehicle gates, security barriers and estate entrances where durability and reliable communication are critical.
- Industrial and plant facilities:EN 50131 Grade 3 protection, rugged construction and tamper detection suit sites requiring high security and tamper resistance.
- Residential estates and multi-dwelling complexes:multi-mode authentication provides convenience for residents (BLE/mobile access), staff (DESFire or tags) and visitors (temporary PINs), all while maintaining a high security level.
- Remote outbuildings and plant rooms:long-range Fibra bus capability and low power draw allow connection of distant access points without additional networking or complex infrastructure.
- High-traffic outdoor entries:illuminated, glove-friendly buttons and robust materials suit entries used in adverse weather or by personnel wearing protective clothing.
Comparisons with similar products
When choosing an outdoor access keypad, buyers typically compare wired versus wireless solutions, credential standards (DESFire vs older formats), and ruggedness ratings. The Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra stands out in several areas:
- Wired Fibra vs wireless keypads:wired Fibra eliminates battery maintenance and RF vulnerability. In environments with heavy interference, high-security needs or long cable runs, a wired device is often preferable. Wireless alternatives can simplify installation in some contexts but may not meet Grade 3 security or provide the same range and reliability.
- DESFire support vs legacy card systems:DESFire EVx offers stronger cryptographic protection than older MIFARE Classic cards. If your site requires robust card security and scalability for credential management, DESFire compatibility is a clear advantage.
- Outdoor robustness:IP66 and IK08 ratings position this keypad above many indoor or splash-resistant models. Competitors with lower ingress or impact ratings may not withstand heavy weather exposure or vandalism attempts as reliably.
- Professional system integration:the Fibra ecosystem is designed for professional installers and integrators. Some competitor keypads are more consumer-focused and lack the same certified integrations, advanced tamper features or long cable runs.
Customer testimonials and reviews
At the time of writing, there are no public customer testimonials tied specifically to this SKU in the supplied product information. Installers and system integrators familiar with Fibra and Ajax products typically highlight the benefits of wired reliability, secure DESFire credentials and the devices robustness for outdoor sites. Prospective buyers should consult local reseller reviews, installer case studies or request references from their vendor to hear firsthand experiences relevant to their application.
- "Wired reliability simplifies integration into professional alarm and access-control architectures."
- "DESFire compatibility removes the security headaches associated with legacy card formats."
- "IP66 and IK08 ratings give confidence for exposed gate installations."
- "Long cable runs on Fibra reduce the need for additional network infrastructure."
Installer notes, compliance and purchasing considerations
This keypad is intended for professional installation in Grade 3 systems. Follow Ajaxs official installation and commissioning instructions for secure wiring, grounding and configuration (support.ajax.systems). Confirm local CE/UKCA marking and additional type approvals as needed for your market; the provided documentation indicates insufficient data for CE/UKCA in the listing, so verify compliance with your supplier before deployment. Also consider system planning for credential management — DESFire requires appropriate card programming and lifecycle policies — and cable selection: U/UTP Cat.5 is recommended to achieve the full Fibra bus range.
Conclusion: why choose the Ajax Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra
The Ajax Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra (Graphite) is a robust, secure and flexible access-control device tailored for professional outdoor installations that demand resilience and reliable communications. Its combination of Fibra wired encryption, DESFire and BLE credential support, IP66/IK08 environmental protection and EN 50131 Grade 3 design makes it well suited to perimeters, gated entrances, industrial sites and residential estates where security cannot be compromised. With long Fibra line runs and low power draw, it integrates cleanly into larger systems while minimizing maintenance. Whether replacing legacy keypads or designing a new high-security perimeter, this keypad offers a practical balance of ruggedness, credential versatility and professional-grade connectivity.
Product identifiers & pricing:Model/SKU: Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra Graphite (117761.285.GP, ITM005404). Suggested retail price: 99.99 (cost price 80.64). For full technical details and installation guidance, consult the official manual: https://support.ajax.systems/en/manuals/superior-keypad-outdoor-fibra/.