HES 9600 Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ answers 15 common questions about the HES 9600 electric strike from Hanchett Entry Systems (HES), an ASSA ABLOY company. Topics include exit device compatibility with Von Duprin and Sargent, 12V/24V DC electrical requirements, fail-secure vs fail-safe operation, Florida Building Code FL# 14307 windstorm certification, and LBM/LBSM monitoring options.
Compatibility Questions
The HES 9600 is compatible with rim exit devices that have Pullman-style latchbolts up to 3/4 inch in diameter. This includes Von Duprin 22, 33A, 35A, and 98/99 series; Sargent 80 and 8800 series rim models; Corbin Russwin ED5000 series; Precision 2100/2700 series; and Falcon 24/25 series.
No, the HES 9600 is not fire-rated. For fire-rated door assemblies, use the HES 9500 which carries a 3-hour fire rating. Using non-fire-rated hardware on fire-rated doors violates building codes.
No, the HES 9600 is non-handed and can be installed on left-hand or right-hand doors without modification.
Installation Questions
No, the HES 9600 is a surface-mounted electric strike that installs on wood and metal frames without any frame cutting or routing. It mounts directly to the frame face using four 1/4"-20 screws.
Fail-secure means the strike locks when power is removed (requires power to unlock). Fail-safe means the strike unlocks when power is removed (requires power to lock). The HES 9600 ships in fail-secure mode. Converting to fail-safe voids the windstorm rating.
Yes, the HES 9600 has vertical adjustment slots that allow approximately ±1/8" of vertical movement after mounting. Loosen the mounting screws, adjust position, and retighten.
Electrical Questions
The HES 9600 operates on 12 VDC or 24 VDC, field-selectable via pigtail connection. Current draw is 500 mA at 12V or 250 mA at 24V. The strike requires DC power only—AC is not supported without an external rectifier.
No, the HES 9600 requires DC voltage. Applying AC power directly will damage the solenoid and void the warranty. If only AC power is available, use a rectified DC power supply or the HES SMART Pac III controller.
Use 18 AWG minimum for runs up to 100 feet; use 16 AWG for runs up to 200 feet. Larger gauges reduce voltage drop over long distances. At 24V, longer runs are possible than at 12V for the same wire gauge.
Disconnect the current pigtail wires and connect the alternate pair. For 12V: connect Red(+) and Black(-). For 24V: connect Violet(+) and Red/Green(-). Insulate unused pigtails with electrical tape.
Certification Questions
Yes, the HES 9600 is certified to ANSI/SDI A250.13 windstorm standards and holds Florida Building Code approval FL# 14307. It's approved for hurricane-rated openings when installed in fail-secure mode.
Yes, the HES 9600 is approved for Florida's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) under FL# 14307. The strike must be installed in fail-secure mode to maintain windstorm certification.
Yes, the HES 9600 is UL 1034 listed for outdoor use. It operates in temperatures from -31°F to +151°F (-35°C to +66°C) and is suitable for weather-exposed exterior doors.
Product Questions
The HES 9600 provides 2,000 lbs of static holding force and 120 ft-lbs of dynamic impact resistance, exceeding ANSI/BHMA A156.31 Grade 1 requirements by 33% (static) and 71% (dynamic).
The HES 9600 is available in 8 finishes: 630 Satin Stainless Steel (most common), 629 Bright Stainless Steel, 605 Bright Brass, 606 Satin Brass, 612 Satin Bronze, 613 Oil Rubbed Bronze, 613E Dark Oxidized Bronze, and BSP Black Suede Powder.
LBM (Latchbolt Monitor) is a built-in switch that detects when the latchbolt is depressed, providing door status feedback to access control systems. It's a factory-installed option.
The HES 9600 includes a 5-year SecuriCare no-fault warranty. This can be extended to 10 years by using the HES SMART Pac III power controller.
Troubleshooting Questions
Check voltage at the strike, verify correct pigtail connection, and ensure the power supply can provide sufficient current. Measure DC voltage directly at the strike during an unlock command—it should be within 10% of nominal.
Pre-loading occurs when door pressure pushes the latchbolt against the strike with enough force to prevent release. Common causes include excessive closer pressure, positive building pressure, or door misalignment. Reduce closer tension or adjust door alignment.
Both are surface-mounted rim strikes, but the HES 9600 offers 2,000 lb holding force versus 1,500 lb for the RCI 0162. The 9600 also has documented Florida Building Code approval (FL# 14307). Verify current certifications before substituting.