The Alarm Lock PG21MSS Pilfergard is a surface-mounted, battery-operated door alarm designed for secure environments requiring both access and egress control. This guide provides a detailed overview of the installation process, configuration options, and operational modes based on official manufacturer documentation and technical specifications. As a versatile and customizable solution, the PG21MSS is commonly used in warehouses, retail environments, and other facilities where controlled access is essential.
Overview of the PG21MSS Door Alarm
The PG21MSS is part of the PG21 Series of door alarms, developed by Alarm Lock for high-security applications. It is equipped with microprocessor-controlled electronics and offers a range of features including four alarm sounds, adjustable time delays, and multiple operating modes. The unit is battery-powered using a 9-volt battery, which is designed to last approximately two years under normal usage conditions. A backup power option is also available via an Alarm Lock model PP-100 or similar power supply, ensuring continued operation during power outages.
Key features of the PG21MSS include:
- A 110 dB siren and amber strobe light for visual and auditory alarm notification
- A Form C relay rated at 24VAC/DC at 1A, allowing integration with fire/burglary panels
- Five alarm modes, including Default, Entry/Exit, Delivery, 2-Minute Delivery, and Door Ajar
- Configurable jumper settings for alarm sounds and reed switch placement
- Tamper protection to prevent unauthorized removal or access
The unit is 2.5 inches wide and can be installed on both standard and narrow stile doors. It is designed to be mounted on the interior (secure) side of the door, with the magnetic actuator installed on the opposite side of the door or jamb.
Installation Process for the PG21MSS
The installation process of the PG21MSS involves several precise steps to ensure proper operation and security. Below is a detailed breakdown of the installation instructions as outlined in the official documentation.
Step 1: Determine Door Type and Mounting Configuration
The PG21MSS can be installed on both single and double doors, and it supports both inswing and outswing configurations. The magnetic actuator must be mounted on the opposite side of the door or jamb to ensure proper alignment. For outswing single doors, the magnetic actuator should be positioned farther from the door to accommodate the arc of the door’s opening and closing.
A two-sided installation template is provided with the unit to assist in determining the correct placement. One side of the template is for outswinging single doors, while the other side is for all other configurations. This ensures the magnetic actuator is within the required range for the unit to arm properly.
Step 2: Mark and Drill Mounting Holes
Using an awl or similar tool, locate the four baseplate mounting holes on the door and jamb. A vertical line should be drawn to align the magnetic actuator. Once the positions are marked, four 1/8” diameter holes should be drilled, each one inch deep, to accommodate the mounting screws.
Step 3: Mount the Baseplate and Housing Cover
After drilling the holes, the baseplate can be mounted to the door. The housing cover is then snapped into place by hooking it onto the clip at the bottom and tilting it into position. The housing cover will snap into place, securing the unit.
To enable normal operation and transition from Magnetic Alignment mode to Standby mode, the tamper screw must be installed. This screw is the longer #8-32 screw and should be placed into the lower left side hole. Once installed, the tamper switch is closed, allowing the unit to function in normal mode.
The remaining three short #8-32 screws are used to secure the housing cover fully.
Step 4: Power the Unit and Test Operation
With the housing cover securely in place, the unit can be powered using the key. The red indicator will enter the window on the cover, and the LED will flash if the magnetic actuator is within range. A tone will sound to indicate the unit is armed.
To test the time delay function, the door should be opened and left open for more than two minutes. After the time delay expires, the siren alarm will sound. The alarm can be turned off by turning the key counter-clockwise until the red indicator on the front of the cover disappears.
After testing, the door should be closed and the unit re-armed using the key. It is important to ensure the magnetic actuator remains within range for the unit to arm properly.
Configuration Options and Alarm Modes
The PG21MSS offers a high degree of customization through jumper settings and alarm modes. These settings are configured using the nine jumpers provided with the unit. Each jumper assembly consists of three pins, with a black jumper connecting two of the three. By lifting the jumper and repositioning it, users can change the alarm mode, sound, and reed switch location.
Default Mode
In the default mode, the alarm will sound for two minutes if the door is opened without disarming the unit. The key is required to turn off and reset the alarm. If the alarm is not disarmed, the LED will flash after the two-minute time delay. Once the door is closed, the alarm will re-arm. This mode is designed for the highest level of security and is the factory default setting.
Entry/Exit Door Mode
This mode allows the door to be opened using the key without triggering the alarm. A time delay (15 seconds, 1 minute, or 2 minutes) is set before the alarm activates if the door remains open. Once the alarm is triggered, it will sound for two minutes unless disarmed. If the door is closed before the alarm times out, the alarm will reset.
Delivery Mode
In Delivery mode, the key is required to open the door without triggering the alarm. There is no time delay on an open door, and the alarm will automatically arm when the door is closed. If the door is opened without the key, the alarm will sound until the door is closed, at which point the alarm will reset.
2-Minute Delivery Mode
This mode allows the door to remain open for up to two minutes without triggering the alarm. If the door remains open for more than two minutes, the alarm will activate and the siren will sound. Once the door is closed, the alarm resets.
Door Ajar Mode
The Door Ajar mode allows entry and exit without the use of a key. A time delay (15 seconds to 2 minutes) is set before the alarm activates if the door remains open. Once the alarm is triggered, it will continue until the door is closed. After the door is closed, the unit will re-arm.
In addition to the five alarm modes, the PG21MSS can be configured to an “On/Off” mode and a Back Door Annunciator mode. In On/Off mode, the unit will beep for two seconds each time the door is opened when disarmed with a key. The Back Door Annunciator mode provides an additional layer of monitoring for secondary access points.
Power and Battery Considerations
The PG21MSS is powered by a 9-volt battery, which is designed to last approximately two years under normal operating conditions. When the battery is in good condition, the LED will blink once every four hours. In the event of a low battery, the unit will chirp, and the LED will flash about once a minute to indicate the battery needs replacement.
For hardwired applications, the PG21MSS can be powered using an Alarm Lock model PP-100 or a similar power supply that provides 9-12VDC at 300mA. In this configuration, the 9-volt battery serves as a backup power source during power failures.
Tamper Protection and Security Features
The PG21MSS includes tamper protection to prevent unauthorized access or removal. If an attempt is made to remove the housing cover or the entire unit, the alarm will activate. A mortise cylinder is installed into the cast housing cover to control the operation of the door alarm and provide tamper protection.
For applications requiring exterior access, the PG21MSS can be configured with a rim cylinder instead of a mortise cylinder. This allows for external key access while still maintaining the security and tamper protection features of the unit.
Compatibility and Integration
The PG21MSS includes a Form C relay rated at 24VAC/DC at 1A, which can be connected to a fire/burglary panel for integrated security monitoring. This allows the door alarm to function as part of a larger security system, providing alerts and notifications in real time.
Alarm Lock also provides a range of accessories and add-ons that can be used with the PG21MSS, including external keypads, magnetic actuators, and power supplies. These accessories enhance the functionality and flexibility of the door alarm system.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the PG21MSS operates correctly and reliably. Users should periodically check the battery status and replace it when the low battery indication is displayed. The magnetic actuator should also be inspected for proper alignment and function.
If the unit fails to arm or the alarm does not activate as expected, the magnetic actuator should be checked to ensure it is within the required range. The tamper screw should also be verified to ensure the unit is in Standby mode and not in Magnetic Alignment mode.
For more detailed troubleshooting and maintenance procedures, users are encouraged to consult the official installation and configuration guides provided by Alarm Lock.
Conclusion
The Alarm Lock PG21MSS Pilfergard is a versatile and reliable door alarm system designed for secure environments requiring controlled access. With its range of alarm modes, configurable settings, and tamper protection features, the PG21MSS offers a high degree of customization and adaptability to meet the needs of various applications. Whether used in a warehouse, retail store, or other facility, the PG21MSS provides a robust solution for access and egress control.
By following the detailed installation and configuration instructions provided, users can ensure the PG21MSS is properly installed and configured for optimal performance. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting will help ensure the unit continues to function reliably over its operational lifespan.