What is an Electric Strike?

An electric strike is an access control device installed in the door frame that allows a door to be unlocked electronically without retracting the mechanical lock. It works together with traditional locks such as mortise locks, cylindrical locks, or panic hardware and is commonly used in electronic security systems.

Electric strikes are widely used in commercial buildings, offices, apartment complexes, and secured facilities where controlled entry is required. They allow doors to be opened using keypads, card readers, intercoms, or remote access systems.

Main characteristics of an electric strike

Electric strikes are designed to combine mechanical door hardware with electronic access control.

Key characteristics include:

• Installed in the door frame (strike plate location)

• Releases the latch electronically when activated

• Works with access control systems, intercoms, and keypads

• Available in fail-safe and fail-secure configurations

• Compatible with mortise locks, cylindrical locks, and exit devices

These features make electric strikes a flexible solution for controlled door access.

How does an electric strike work?

An electric strike operates by controlling whether the latch is allowed to pass through the strike plate.

The typical operation process includes:

• The door remains mechanically locked by the latch

• A credential is presented (card, code, button, or remote signal)

• The access control system sends power to the electric strike

• The strike releases the latch momentarily

• The door can be opened without turning the handle

• Once the door closes, it locks again automatically

This allows secure access without replacing the existing lockset.

Types of electric strikes

Electric strikes are available in different configurations depending on security and door requirements.

Common types include:

• Fail-safe electric strikes – unlock when power is lost

• Fail-secure electric strikes – remain locked when power is lost

• Surface-mounted electric strikes – used when cutting the frame is not possible

• Heavy-duty electric strikes – designed for high-traffic commercial doors

• Smart electric strikes – integrate with advanced access control systems

The correct type depends on fire code requirements, door usage, and security level.

Where are electric strikes commonly used?

Electric strikes are widely used in modern access-controlled environments.

Typical applications include:

• Office buildings and business centers

• Apartment complexes and gated properties

• Schools and universities

• Hospitals and healthcare facilities

• Commercial storefronts

• Doors with card readers or keypad systems

They are especially useful when upgrading mechanical doors to electronic access.

Advantages of electric strikes

Electric strikes offer strong practical and security benefits.

Main advantages:

• Allows electronic access without replacing the existing lock

• Compatible with most access control systems

• Improves convenience for high-traffic doors

• Supports remote unlocking and scheduling

• Professional and scalable security solution

These benefits make electric strikes one of the most popular access control components.

An electric strike is a smart solution for c