Abstract: A method for tracking user access to electronic mortise locksets includes providing electronic mortise locksets that each include a locking bolt that a lock-out mechanism blocks against retraction until a lockset controller disengages the lock-out mechanism in response to a key reader identifying a properly configured key. Each lockset controller is programmed to upload access data to a key memory whenever a properly configured key is used to unlock the electronic mortise lockset by inserting the key into a key reader of the lockset. The access data stored in the key memory includes a record of the times that the key is inserted into each of the locksets.

Abstract: A lockset controller that functions in either a low power sleep mode or an active mode and includes a processor that's inactive in the sleep mode and active in the active mode. A wakeup control module switches the controller from the sleep mode to the active mode when a wakeup event occurs. A key card control module acts as an interface between a key card reader and the controller such that electronic data may be transferred between the two devices. A motor driver module drives an electrical motor that moves a locking mechanism component of the lockset apparatus between locked and unlocked states. The controller switches from sleep to active mode when the processor receives a wakeup signal. Once in active mode, if the processor receives an authorized data signal, the processor transmits a power signal that causes the electrical motor to unlock the locking mechanism.

Abstract: A lock programmer/interrogator assembly for communicating with an electronic lock. The assembly includes a key comprising a circuit card having surface contacts positioned to align with contacts in an electronic lock smart card reader when the key is inserted into a smart card reader module. A cable connector is mounted on the circuit card. The circuit card includes current paths that electrically connect the surface contacts to pins of the cable connector. The assembly also includes a cable connectable at a first end to the cable connector and at a second end to a computer. The cable includes wires connectable between the pins of the cable connector and the computer.

Abstract: A key card encoder incorporates a plunger that is pushed downward as the card is manually inserted into a slot in the encoder and a potentiometer whose value changes based on the plunger position to indicate the card's position at all times. As the card is inserted into the slot, a head encodes a magnetic strip on the card as the card is inserted into the slot, while the head verifies the code in the reverse direction as the card is withdrawn from the slot. The slot is illuminated in different colors and flashing patterns to guide the user through the encoding process and notify the user if there is an encoding error.

Abstract: A booster-enhanced power supply for a valve control circuit is disclosed. An inductor repeatedly stores energy from a power source, then discharges it through a diode into a capacitor due to the cycling on and off of a switch. The charged capacitor is used as the power source for changing the state of the valve. The charge stored on the capacitor(s) at any given moment is preferably monitored, and the charging cycle is preferably controlled to optimize the use of the boosting circuit for a given application. The boosted power source can provide a consistent output even when the power source provides an consistent power output even when the power source provides an inconsistent power input.

Abstract: A booster-enhanced power supply for a valve control circuit is disclosed. An inductor repeatedly stores energy from a power source, then discharges it through a diode into a capacitor due to the cycling on and off of a switch. The charged capacitor is used as the power source for changing the state of the valve. The charge stored on the capacitor(s) at any given moment is preferably monitored, and the charging cycle is preferably controlled to optimize the use of the boosting circuit for a given application. The boosted power source can provide a consistent output even when the power source provides an consistent power output even when the power source provides an inconsistent power input.

Abstract: A mortise lockset apparatus (10) that includes a retractable bolt (20) movably supported within a case (12). A handle (18) is pivotally supported on a hub (16) supported in the case, the hub being operably connected to the retractable bolt. The bolt is retracted by turning the door handle. A lock-out mechanism (22) is configured to prevent the handle from being turned when the lock-out mechanism is in an engaged position. The handle lock-out mechanism also includes a cam (29) movably supported in the case and operably connected to a motor (30). A sliding stop (34) is movably supported in the case and is engageable with the handle hub to prevent the handle hub and the handle from turning. The sliding stop is also engageable with a cam surface (40) of the cam. The motor is configured to move the sliding stop by rotating the cam. The cam rotational axis (42) is disposed between diametrically opposed portions of the cam surface to minimize space requirements for the assembly.