Camden CX-EMF-2 Multi-Function Relay Controller

The Camden CX-EMF-2 is a dedicated multi-function relay controller designed for small to mid-scale access control deployments. Built in a plastic enclosure, this controller integrates keypad-based credential reading with magnetic lock strike management across up to five doors, making it suitable for facilities requiring straightforward, centralized relay control without complex network dependencies.

Overview

The CX-EMF-2 operates as a standalone multi-function relay platform, enabling integrators to manage access credentials and door strikes through a single control point. The system is powered by 20VDC, simplifying electrical design in retrofit and new installations. Its compact plastic housing is well-suited for wall-mount or cabinet installations where space efficiency and ease of maintenance are priorities.

Key Features

5-Door Capacity: Supports simultaneous relay control across up to five separate doors, enabling multi-entrance access management from a single unit

Keypad Reader Integration: Native support for keypad-based credential entry, allowing PIN or multi-digit code authentication without external readers

Magnetic Lock Strike Compatibility: Direct control of magnetic lock strikes, with integrated relay outputs sized for standard electromagnetic lock devices

20VDC Power Supply: Single power rail simplifies installation and reduces auxiliary power infrastructure requirements

Plastic Enclosure Design: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant housing suitable for indoor wall-mount or cabinet deployment

Multi-Function Relay Logic: Flexible relay sequencing accommodates varied access control workflows and emergency unlock scenarios

Integration & Compatibility

The CX-EMF-2 functions as a relay control hub, accepting keypad inputs and distributing relay closure signals to magnetic lock strikes. This architecture is compatible with standalone door access installations where network-based controllers are not required. Integrators should verify strike power requirements and ensure that the 20VDC supply is sized appropriately for the total load of five magnetic locks operating simultaneously or in sequence.

The controller is ideal for retrofit applications, small office parks, limited-access utility rooms, and facilities with straightforward credential authentication requirements. Its reliance on keypad-only readers means that card-based or biometric readers would require external interfaces not natively supported by the CX-EMF-2 platform.

Installation Considerations

Proper electrical design is critical when deploying the CX-EMF-2. Each of the five relay outputs must be evaluated for the draw of its associated magnetic strike. Door position monitoring, request-to-exit sensors, and emergency override circuits should be planned during the design phase to ensure the relay logic accommodates fail-safe or fail-secure requirements. The plastic enclosure provides protection suitable for standard indoor environments; harsh, high-temperature, or humid installations may require supplemental environmental controls.

Ted Perry

Perspective based on aggregated and affiliated engineering team experience.

I've specified the Camden CX-EMF-2 for several small multi-tenant facilities where PIN-only access control was acceptable and network infrastructure was not yet in place. The five-door capacity and direct keypad integration made it a pragmatic choice for a phased access control rollout. This controller excels when the credential requirement is simple and the door count is under five.

Technical Highlights:

5-Door Relay Management: The CX-EMF-2 outputs five independent relay circuits, each capable of driving a magnetic lock strike. Load calculations must account for inrush current during simultaneous unlock events.
Keypad Reader Input: Native keypad support eliminates the need for separate reader interfaces, simplifying wiring and reducing component count in smaller deployments.
20VDC Single-Rail Power: Standardized low-voltage supply reduces the risk of mixed power domains and simplifies backup power planning if battery backup is required.

Deployment Considerations:

Verify that all five magnetic locks do not exceed the combined relay contact rating when energized simultaneously. Staggered unlock logic in the programming may be required.
Plan for fail-safe versus fail-secure behavior during power loss; the plastic housing does not inherently support integrated power backup, so external UPS or battery management is necessary for critical access points.

The CX-EMF-2 is a solid fit for facilities transitioning from manual key management or those requiring temporary multi-door PIN control. For larger or more sophisticated deployments, a network-connected controller with cloud management capabilities may offer better long-term flexibility.