HES 9600 Installation Guide

The HES 9600 surface-mounts to wood, hollow metal, and aluminum storefront frames without frame cutting using the 9000-MTK template kit. Hanchett Entry Systems (HES), an ASSA ABLOY company, designed the 9600 for fast installation—a complete retrofit takes under 30 minutes on pre-wired frames. This guide covers the installation process for all frame types, voltage configuration, and fail-secure/fail-safe mode selection.

Surface-Mount Design

The HES 9600's 3/4" thick stainless steel housing mounts directly to the frame face—no cutting or routing required. Installation typically takes 30 minutes or less.

What tools are required to install the HES 9600?

Install the HES 9600 using a drill, 1/4"-20 tap, Phillips screwdriver, and wire strippers. For hollow metal frames, you'll also need blind nuts (provided) instead of tapping. The optional 9000-MTK template kit simplifies hole positioning.

How do I install the HES 9600 on a metal frame?

Mount the HES 9600 on metal frames using Securitron BN-250 blind nuts for hollow sections or 1/4"-20 tapped holes for solid frames (14 gauge or heavier). The strike requires 4 mounting points arranged in a vertical pattern. For detailed frame-specific procedures, see the hollow metal frame installation guide or aluminum storefront installation guide. Follow these 9 steps:

Step 1: Position the Template

Use the 9000-MTK template or the paper template included in the package to mark mounting hole locations. Position the template so the strike opening aligns with the exit device latchbolt centerline. The strike should be vertically centered on the latchbolt.

Step 2: Drill Mounting Holes

Drill four 13/64" pilot holes at the marked locations. For hollow metal frames, drill through both the face and back of the frame to insert blind nuts. For solid frames, drill to a depth sufficient for 1/4"-20 threads (minimum 3/8").

Step 3: Prepare Mounting Points

For hollow frames: Insert blind nuts from the back side and pull to expand. For solid frames: Tap 1/4"-20 threads into each pilot hole. Clean debris from holes before proceeding.

Step 4: Route Wiring

Run power wiring through the frame to the strike location. Use a minimum 18 AWG wire for runs up to 100 feet. Leave sufficient slack for connections—approximately 8 inches of wire at the strike location.

Step 5: Configure Voltage

Connect the appropriate pigtail for your voltage: Red(+) and Black(-) for 12V, or Violet(+) and Red/Green(-) for 24V. Insulate unused pigtails with electrical tape. See wiring diagrams for details.

Step 6: Mount the Strike Base

Remove the decorative cover from the strike body. Position the base on the frame, aligning the mounting holes. Install four 1/4"-20 screws and tighten evenly in a cross pattern. Do not overtighten.

Step 7: Test Operation

Apply power and test the strike release. The solenoid should retract smoothly when energized. Test with the door closed to verify latchbolt engagement and release under load.

Step 8: Adjust as Needed

The strike has a vertical adjustment slot allowing ±1/8" vertical movement. Loosen the mounting screws, adjust position, and retighten. The horizontal depth is fixed.

Step 9: Install Cover

Snap the decorative cover onto the strike base. Ensure the cover is fully seated and aligned with the frame face.

How do I install the HES 9600 on a wood frame?

Mount the HES 9600 on wood frames using the provided wood screws in pre-drilled pilot holes. Wood installation is simpler than metal because no tapping or blind nuts are required.

How do I configure fail-secure vs fail-safe mode?

The HES 9600 ships in fail-secure mode and can be converted to fail-safe using the internal selector. 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).

Learn more about fail-safe vs fail-secure configuration →

What are common installation mistakes to avoid?

The most common installation errors are incorrect voltage connection, misaligned strike positioning, and using fail-safe mode in windstorm applications. Avoid these issues by following the checklist below:

View troubleshooting guide for installation problems →