Introduction to the CDVI RTE-IRS and its key features
CDVI RTE-IRS Touchless Infrared Exit Deviceis a surface-mount, touch-free exit switch designed for modern access-control environments where hygiene, durability and simple operation matter. Marketed as a ‘Touchless Infrared Exit Switch — 12 6 24 VDC’, the unit combines a brushed stainless-steel faceplate engraved with an "EXIT" legend, an adjustable infrared sensor (3 6 15 cm), and a single relay output capable of driving electric locks and access-control inputs. With low standby current draw and a robust mechanical life, the RTE-IRS is aimed at hospitals, schools, public buildings and any high-traffic location where reducing surface contact is a priority.
Detailed description: specifications and benefits
The RTE-IRS pairs straightforward features with practical engineering choices. Below are its primary technical specifications and the benefits these deliver in real-world installations.
- Manufacturer / Model: CDVI RTE-IRS (Ref E0931000112)
- Technology: Infrared touchless sensor
- Relay: 1 single-pole contact (2 A @ 24 VDC)
- Voltage: 12 6 24 VDC
- Contact rating: 2 A @ 24 VDC
- Current consumption: 20 mA standby / 42 mA active
- Detection range: Adjustable 3 6 15 cm
- Operating temperature: -20 daC to +55 daC
- Mechanical life: 500,000 operations (approx.)
- Material / finish: Brushed stainless steel, engraved 'EXIT'
- Mounting: Surface mount; fits standard UK back-box
- Dimensions: 85 d7 85 d7 42 mm (Hd7Wd7D)
- Weight: 0.32 kg
- LED indicator: Bi-colour status LED
- Hygiene and touch-free operation: The infrared sensor allows users to activate the exit relay with a simple hand wave at 3 6 15 cm. That eliminates repeated contact with push buttons, reducing cross-contamination risks — critical in healthcare, food service and high-traffic public environments.
- Adjustable sensitivity: The 3 6 15 cm adjustment range gives installers flexibility to avoid false activations while ensuring a reliable user experience. This flexibility helps tune the device for recessed mounting or varied doorway geometries.
- Durability and presentation: The brushed stainless-steel faceplate with an engraved "EXIT" legend is both durable and aesthetically neutral, matching many modern interiors while resisting wear from cleaning and frequent use.
- Clear user feedback: The bi-colour LED provides immediate visual confirmation of the device status, making it easy for users and maintenance staff to understand whether the sensor is functioning or if an activation has taken place.
- Low power draw: At 20 mA standby and 42 mA active, the RTE-IRS is energy efficient and suitable for battery-backed or low-power systems where energy budget matters.
- Simple integration: The single-pole relay output (2 A @ 24 VDC) is compatible with a wide range of electric locks and access-control panels. The unit operates from a widely available 12 6 24 VDC supply, simplifying power provisioning on most installations.
- Installer-friendly: Surface-mount footprint designed to fit standard UK back-boxes makes retrofit and new-install mounting straightforward. CDVI documentation and wiring diagrams guide proper installation and compliance.
Use cases and scenarios where the RTE-IRS excels
The strengths of the RTE-IRS make it especially well-suited to environments where hygiene, reliability and simple user interaction are top priorities. Typical use cases include:
- Hospital wards, operating theatre corridors, outpatient clinics and patient-room exits benefit from touch-free operation to minimize infection vectors. The robust finish withstands frequent cleaning with disinfectants.
- Schools and universities experience high pedestrian flow. The RTE-IRS reduces wear compared with mechanical buttons and keeps entrances and exits sanitary for students and staff.
- Libraries, museums, government buildings and stations require durable, low-maintenance exit devices capable of handling continuous use while offering clear signage and feedback.
- Areas with strict hygiene protocols benefit from touchless controls that limit direct hand contact and are easy to clean without degrading the finish.
- Where a professional appearance and reliable integration with access-control systems are required, the RTE-IRS blends into reception and exit points while maintaining straightforward wiring and operation for security teams.
Comparison with similar products in the market
When selecting a touchless exit solution, buyers commonly consider infrared sensors (like the RTE-IRS), ultrasonic sensors, capacitive touchless units and traditional mechanical push buttons. Below is a comparison of the RTE-IRS against these alternatives and typical market offerings.
- Infrared(RTE-IRS): Detects hand presence at a short, adjustable range (3 6 15 cm). Advantages include precise near-field activation that minimizes unintended triggers from people walking by. Infrared is less prone to detecting motion across a broader area, which is valuable at busy entrances.
- Ultrasonic: Often has a wider detection zone, useful when approach detection is desired. However, it can be prone to false activations in crowded spaces or from reflective surfaces. The RTE-IRSfs close-range infrared approach reduces false positives and is better for point-of-use exit activation.
- Capacitive systems can detect the electrical properties of a hand without a strict line of sight and may be more tolerant of mounting variations. However, they can suffer from variability based on gloves or heavy clothing. The infrared RTE-IRS consistently reads a hand wave at the tuned 3 6 15 cm range and is less affected by gloves commonly used in medical or food environments.
- Mechanical buttons are inexpensive and familiar but require physical contact and have limited lifetime for high-traffic applications. The RTE-IRS eliminates contact, extends service intervals (mechanical life ~500,000 ops) and reduces the need for cleaning and replacement due to surface wear.
- Brushed stainless finish with an engraved legend provides a premium, durable appearance compared with plastic-faced sensors.
- Bi-colour LED provides clearer status than single-colour indicators found on some budget units.
- Adjustable near-field range and low current draw make it a practical choice where reliable point activation, energy efficiency and cleanability are required.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
No official customer testimonials were supplied with the product specification here. However, common feedback themes from installers and facilities managers who specify touchless infrared exit devices like the RTE-IRS include:
- "Reduced maintenance and fewer replacements compared to mechanical push buttons" f due to the lack of moving external parts and a strong metal finish.
- "Fewer hygiene complaints and easier cleaning protocols" f staff note fewer touchpoints and easier sanitisation between shifts.
- "Straightforward wiring and dependable relay operation" f compatibility with standard 12 6 24 VDC supplies and a 2 A relay simplifies integration into existing access-control panels and electric lock setups.
These common observations reflect real-world expectations for devices in this product class. For manufacturer-specific case studies or recorded testimonials, refer to CDVIfs product page or reseller listings.
Practical installation and specification notes
- The RTE-IRS requires a 12 6 24 VDC supply; ensure correct polarity and stable voltage. It draws approximately 20 mA in standby and 42 mA while active.
- Its relay is rated at 2 A @ 24 VDC. Confirm downstream load currents (electric strike, maglock circuits or control panel inputs) do not exceed this rating or use an intermediary relay/contactor for higher loads.
- Surface-mount design fits a standard UK back-box. Follow the CDVI datasheet and installation manual for mounting screw positions, cable entry and wiring diagrams.
- Install by a qualified electrician or competent installer to meet local electrical and fire regulations; consult CE/UKCA documentation for compliance details.
Price and value proposition
The suggested retail price for the RTE-IRS is 64.99 (manufacturer or reseller pricing may vary). At that price point, the unit positions itself as an affordable, mid-range touchless exit device with a stainless-steel aesthetic and practical features. For projects where hygiene, low power consumption and a tidy stainless finish matter, the RTE-IRS offers strong value compared with both cheaper plastic-bodied sensors and higher-priced, feature-heavy access-control peripherals.
Conclusion: why the CDVI RTE-IRS is a great choice
For facilities seeking a reliable, low-profile, touch-free exit solution, the CDVI RTE-IRS combines practical engineering with installer-friendly features. Its adjustable infrared detection, durable brushed stainless-steel faceplate, clear LED feedback and straightforward 12 6 24 VDC operation make it an excellent fit for hospitals, schools, commercial buildings and clean environments. While other technologies such as ultrasonic or capacitive sensors have their places, the RTE-IRSfs near-field infrared approach reduces false triggers and supports precise point-of-use activation. With a modest suggested price and conservative power requirements, it delivers a compelling balance of durability, hygiene and ease of integration for most access-control applications.
Note: For final selection and installation details, always consult the official CDVI datasheet and installation manual, verify compliance with local regulations and engage a qualified installer to commission the device safely and correctly.
