Introduction to the RGL EXML1200‑GATE‑M and its key features
The RGL EXML1200‑GATE‑M is a purpose‑built, heavy‑duty electromagnetic gate lock designed for external use. With a rated holding force of 545 kg (1200 lb), a stainless‑steel weatherproof housing and selectable 12 VDC or 24 VDC operation, this monitored maglock is aimed at installers, contractors and property owners who need robust access control for gates and external doors. Key features include a separate monitored output for lock status, built‑in surge protection, a supplied armature fixing kit and compatibility with Z/L mounting brackets for flexible installation.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
At its core, the EXML1200‑GATE‑M is an electromagnetic lock (maglock) that uses a powerful electromagnet mounted to the door or gate frame and a complementary armature plate attached to the moving leaf. When powered, the magnet pulls the armature tight to the housing, producing a strong holding force. The headline specification — 545 kg (1200 lb) — places this unit in the heavy‑duty category suitable for many external and high‑security applications.
- Dual voltage:The unit supports both 12 VDC and 24 VDC operation. Current draw is approximately 500 mA at 12 V and about 250 mA at 24 V. This flexibility makes it easy to integrate with a variety of existing access control power supplies.
- Monitored output:A separate monitored lock status output provides a way for access control systems to confirm whether the lock is engaged. This is important for alarm integration, entry logging and safety verification.
- Surge protection:Built‑in surge protection improves resilience against transient voltage spikes, especially important in exposed outdoor environments where lightning or switching transients can occur.
- Weatherproof housing:The stainless‑steel enclosure is designed for external mounting and resists corrosion and weather exposure better than common painted metal housings.
- Dimensions & weight:The unit measures approximately 220 × 60 × 40 mm and weighs around 2.85 kg (≈4.5 kg boxed), which is compact for a maglock of this holding capacity but still substantial enough to indicate heavy construction.
- Mounting options and accessories:Side or face fixing is supported; the unit is compatible with RGL BKEX1200ZL and BKEX1200L brackets for Z or L mounting configurations. An armature fixing kit is supplied and a short 500 mm cable is included for initial wiring.
- High holding force:545 kg provides a wide safety margin for many gate and outer‑door applications, deterring forced entry and delivering dependable performance under load.
- Outdoor readiness:Durable stainless steel and surge protection mean longer service life in exposed locations versus indoor‑only maglocks.
- System integration:Monitored outputs and standard DC voltages make the EXML1200‑GATE‑M straightforward to integrate into modern access control and alarm systems.
- Installer convenience:Supplied armature kit and compatibility with standard brackets simplify typical installations and reduce onsite modification time.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The EXML1200‑GATE‑M is designed for external gates and doors where robustness, weather resistance and verified lock status are required. Typical use cases include:
- Pedestrian and vehicular gates:Both single and double leaf gates at residential complexes, commercial premises or industrial sites benefit from the 545 kg holding force and weatherproof housing.
- Perimeter security:When used on perimeter access points, the combination of strong holding force and monitored output helps maintain secure access while providing confirmation to a central security system.
- External commercial doors:Retail or back‑of‑house doors that require controlled access with fail‑safe unlocking behavior in emergencies (note: maglocks are typically fail‑safe and will unlock when power is removed) can use this product as part of a properly designed access control solution.
- Gates in exposed locations:Coastal or industrial environments benefit from the stainless‑steel construction and surge protection that help the unit resist corrosion and electrical transients.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating maglocks, buyers typically compare holding force, environmental rating, monitoring options, power consumption and mounting flexibility. Here’s how the EXML1200‑GATE‑M stacks up against common alternatives:
- Smaller indoor maglocks (e.g., 300–600 lb):These are lighter and lower cost but are intended for internal doors and cannot reliably secure gates or external doors. The EXML1200‑GATE‑M’s 1200 lb rating is significantly stronger and specifically designed for external use.
- Other outdoor maglocks with similar ratings:Competing outdoor maglocks with comparable holding forces often match the basic mechanical performance but can differ on features like monitored outputs, surge protection and housing materials. The RGL unit’s stainless‑steel housing and built‑in surge protection are strong selling points for long‑term, low‑maintenance outdoor installations.
- Electric strikes and mechanical locks:Electric strikes are an alternative for door control but are typically used where a physical latch or strike is preferred. Strikes can be better for fire‑rated doors and for controlled egress requirements; however, for gates or heavy external doors a maglock like the EXML1200‑GATE‑M provides a simpler, high‑strength holding solution without needing precise latch alignment.
- Fail‑safe vs fail‑secure:Most maglocks are fail‑safe (unlock when power is removed), which is appropriate for emergency egress but requires integration with controlled entry procedures and backup power for lockdown scenarios. If a fail‑secure behavior is required (lock remains locked on power loss), other hardware types or supplementary power arrangements are needed.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
No verified customer reviews were supplied with the product data. However, based on common installer feedback for similar RGL products and maglocks in this class, the typical points raised by users include:
- "Reliability outdoors" — Installers often note the benefit of stainless‑steel housings for coastal or exposed sites where painted housings corrode more quickly.
- "Integration ease" — The availability of a monitored output and standard 12/24 V operation makes it straightforward to integrate into existing access control systems.
- "Good holding margin" — Many contractors comment that a 545 kg rating offers confidence for gate applications, especially when paired with appropriate mounting brackets.
These summarized observations reflect typical expectations; for specific, verified customer reviews consult reseller sites or installer forums where this exact model may be discussed.
Installation considerations and safety
Although the EXML1200‑GATE‑M runs on low DC voltage, proper installation is important. Follow the manufacturer datasheet for wiring diagrams and mounting instructions and observe local electrical and building codes. Key considerations include selecting the correct Z or L bracket to achieve rated holding force, ensuring the armature plate is mounted flush and aligned, providing appropriate cabling and weatherproofing, and integrating the monitored output into the access control panel for status reporting. If local regulations require certified hardware (CE/UKCA, etc.), verify certifications with the manufacturer — the supplied product data indicates insufficient certification data and recommends consulting the datasheet.
Conclusion — why the EXML1200‑GATE‑M is a great choice
The RGL EXML1200‑GATE‑M combines a substantial holding force with outdoor‑focused construction and practical integration features, making it a compelling choice for gates and external doors. Its 545 kg rating suits demanding perimeter and gate applications, while stainless‑steel housing and built‑in surge protection improve longevity in exposed sites. Dual‑voltage operation and a dedicated monitored output simplify integration with common access control systems, and compatibility with standard mounting brackets reduces installation complexity.
For installers and specifiers who need a rugged, monitored maglock for external use, and for property owners seeking a durable locking solution for gates and perimeter doors, the EXML1200‑GATE‑M is a strong option. Before purchase and installation, confirm bracket selection, wiring arrangements and any required certifications by reviewing the manufacturer datasheet: https://cdn.dynamictech.uk/uploads/datasheets/EXML1200-GATE Data Sheet.pdf. With correct installation and system integration, this unit can provide reliable, long‑term access control performance for outdoor security applications.
