HES PB5E Push Button 2in Round DPST

We've deployed the HES PB5E across controlled access environments, emergency egress scenarios, and critical facility unlock sequences for years. What sets this button apart from generic momentary switches is the DPST architecture and HES integration maturity — the company designed it specifically for dual-load applications where a single button press must trigger simultaneous activation. In our experience, that prevents the two most common retrofit mistakes: installers trying to use a single-pole button and then adding relays after-the-fact (cost overrun), or mixing brands (Assa Abloy strike + HES button + third-party relay) and creating compatibility nightmares when one component needs replacement. The PB5E is the simplest, most bulletproof way to handle a two-circuit momentary unlock. We've also seen integrators use it for redundant lock circuits in data center access points — one button press unlocks the primary strike and triggers an auxiliary electromagnetic lock simultaneously. No relay stacks. No voltage drop concerns. Dead simple wiring.

Technical Highlights:

• DPST Contact Configuration: Each button press closes two separate switch poles at the same time. This is not the same as two single-pole switches — the contact separation and timing are guaranteed to be synchronized. In fail-safe unlock sequences, that synchronization prevents the race condition where one lock releases before the other, triggering false alarms or door-open alerts on asymmetric lock status. We've seen this matter in high-security audit trails.
• 24VDC Rated Contacts: The switch contacts are specifically rated for 24VDC inductive loads (electromagnets, solenoids). This is important: generic 120VAC buttons often overheat on 24VDC loads because the contact material and arc suppression circuit are designed for AC. The PB5E eliminates that risk entirely. We've run 24/7 continuous-duty unlock sequences with this button for months without contact degradation.
• 5A Per-Circuit Maximum: Each of the two switch poles can handle up to 5A at 24VDC. In practical terms, a standard HES 7000 electric strike draws 0.5–1.0A during the unlock pulse, leaving 4A headroom per circuit. If you're driving two strikes from one button, you're well within spec. If you ever need to trigger a third load, a relay does that job; the PB5E's role is the momentary trigger, not the power distribution.
• Momentary Closure Time: Contact closure is immediate on press, release is immediate on finger lift. There is no debounce delay built into the button itself — the access control panel typically adds 50–100ms debounce in software to filter out noise. This means integrators never see double-trigger events, even in electrically noisy environments (near motors, fluorescent ballasts).
• Terminal Block Wiring: Internally, the button uses a screw-down terminal block for field wiring. 14/2 access control cable (the standard in most facilities) screws in easily; no soldering, no crimp connectors required. We've done hundreds of these installs, and the terminal connection is rock-solid — zero callbacks for loose wires or intermittent contact.

Deployment Considerations:

• The button itself is momentary-only — no locking mechanism. If your access control logic doesn't handle the unlock dwell time and re-lock, the door stays unlocked indefinitely. Always verify that the panel controlling this button has a relay card or controller input module with programmable dwell timing. Set reasonable dwell times (3–5 seconds for most door strikes) to prevent security drift.
• In high-traffic areas (lobbies, main entry points), the 2-inch round button gets a lot of wear. Plan to stock spare PB5E units for large deployments. Replacement is a five-minute job — disconnect the terminals, unscrew the old button, screw in the new one — but you want to avoid downtime on a main access point.
• The PB5E is mounted inside an electrical box, and the button itself protrudes through the face of the box. Ensure the box is recessed or surface-mounted in a location where the button doesn't create a tripping hazard or get exposed to water splash. For outdoor emergency release stations, mount the box under a protective canopy or use a weatherproof electrical enclosure rated for wet locations.
• Wiring should always include a conduit run from the electrical box back to the access control panel. A loose wire exposed to foot traffic or maintenance activity is a liability. Use 3/4-inch conduit minimum for two-circuit wiring (two pairs of conductors).
• If the button is controlling a fail-safe electromagnetic lock on an emergency egress door, verify that your installation complies with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code. The unlock button must be reachable from inside the secured space without needing to open a door or turn a key. The PB5E's 2-inch diameter is clearly identifiable and easy to locate in low-light or panic scenarios.
• Test the button under load before signing off on the installation. Press it 10–20 times and verify that both strikes or locks activate simultaneously. If one activates with delay or doesn't activate at all, you have a wiring issue, a terminal connection problem, or a bad button — swap it immediately.

The HES PB5E is the right choice for integrators who need dual-circuit momentary switching without complexity. It's not a smart button — no wireless, no networking — but that's exactly the point. It's a proven, reliable mechanical switch with 30+ years of field deployment across data centers, laboratories, and secure facilities. If you're building a new access control system with HES strikes, or upgrading an existing installation that needs a second momentary trigger, the PB5E is the most straightforward solution. See the HES catalog for complementary electric strikes and access control hardware.