UniFi Access - Connect to Door Position Sensors and Configure Software Settings

A Door Position Sensor (DPS) detects whether a door is open or closed and sends this status to UniFi Access for monitoring. A DPS is typically connected to an Access Control Hub's inputs and operates as normally closed (NC) circuits. The hub generally does not provide power to the DPS.

Benefits

• Sounding a siren for prolonged door openings.
• Alerting for intrusions.
• Providing instant door status.

It is recommended to use Magnetic Locks (UA-Lock-Magnetic), as they include a built-in DPS, making them cost-efficient and eliminating the need for an additional sensor.

Common DPS Styles

DPS comes in various styles. Here are some of the most common ones.

Recessed Magnetic Sensor

• Installation Location: The switch is usually installed on the hinge side, while the magnet is installed on the swing side.
• Pros: Suitable for most facilities and recessed to minimize tampering and detection.
• Cons: Prone to alignment issues and false alarms from wind buffeting or vibrations.

Mechanical Plunger Sensor

It has a button that is pressed when the door is closed, completing the circuit. When the door opens, the button releases, signaling an open door.

• Installation Location: Typically installed on the hinge side of the door.
• Pros: Highly durable and avoids alignment issues due to its one-sided design.
• Cons: Can be tampered with using a card unless protected by the frame and jamb threshold.

Surface Mounted Sensor

• Installation Location: The switch is usually installed on the frame side indoors, while the magnet is placed on the swing side.
• Pros: Resists environmental effects (e.g., heat, cold, rain, snow) and requires minimal installation skill. Fits most doors (e.g., wood, aluminum, and hollow-core steel), with a larger sensor area to minimize alignment issues.
• Cons: Exposed and vulnerable to vandalism.

Overhead Style Sensor

• Installation Location: The switch is usually installed on the floor indoors, while the magnet is installed at the bottom of the garage door panel. The sensor can also be installed at the top of the garage door.
• Pros: Easy to install and suitable for monitoring upward-moving doors like overhead or roll-up doors.
• Cons: Prone to false alarms from wind buffeting and vulnerable to dirt.

Connect DPS to Access Control Hub

Configure DPS Trigger Level in UniFi Access Application

1. Go to your Access application > Devices > Hubs > select a hub > Settings > Terminal. 
2. Do either of the following:
   • UA-Hub: Go to Terminal Manager > Door Position Sensor (DPS) > Trigger Level > Open Active (NC). 
     
   • UA-Hub-Door: Go to Terminal Manager > Door Position > Trigger Level > Open Active (NC). 
     
   • EAH-8: Go to Terminal Manager > Door Position > Trigger Level > Open Active (NC).
     
3. Click Apply Changes. 

Monitor Door Position Status

After you have configured the door position trigger level in the UniFi Access application, clear and color-coded text for door status is displayed in both the UniFi Access application and mobile app. This allows immediate action on abnormalities. For example, an "unauthorized opening" event will be logged if a door is opened without authorization.