Raven Push to Exit (REX) Devices

Push to Exit (REX) solutions from Raven, including standard and timer models. Learn wiring, lock compatibility, and best practices for secure egress.

By Roy Evans

• 4 articles

RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T - Push to Exit Devices Explained

In access control systems, a Request to Exit (REX) device is an essential component for safe and convenient egress. The RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T are both square-format push-to-exit buttons designed to work with magnetic locks or electric strikes. Mounted near the door’s interior, these buttons allow authorized personnel to exit without a key or credential, simply by pressing the button. Both models also feature a 12V LED backlight, ensuring clear visibility in low-light conditions. The RVN-REX is the standard model. It provides a direct and immediate trigger to unlock the door when pressed, making it ideal for most common installations where no delay is necessary. It’s built for reliability and simplicity, with a clean design and universal compatibility with low-voltage access control systems. [Insert Image: RVN-REX-T – close-up showing the internal timer circuit board] The RVN-REX-T builds upon the same core functionality as the RVN-REX but adds an integrated adjustable timer module. This small internal circuit board allows installers to set a local unlock delay ranging from 1 to 60 seconds, making it ideal for situations where additional time is needed for the door to be held open—such as for ADA compliance, commercial entryways, or timed egress paths. Choosing between the two depends on your installation needs. Use the RVN-REX when instant door release is preferred. Opt for the RVN-REX-T when timing flexibility is required, without needing to configure this behavior at the controller level. The timer is adjusted directly via a dial on the internal board, simplifying field configuration. [Insert Image: Side-by-side comparison of RVN-REX vs RVN-REX-T]

Last updated on Jul 15, 2025

Do I Need a Timed Delay?

In many access control scenarios, a standard push-to-exit button that instantly unlocks the door is more than enough. However, there are situations where a timed delay can make all the difference in convenience, safety, and compliance. A timed delay allows the door to remain unlocked for a set period—typically between 1 to 60 seconds—giving people extra time to exit without needing to hold the button down or rush through. Timed delays are especially useful in locations with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, heavy foot traffic, or large doors that take time to open. They’re also valuable in systems where the door is connected to automatic openers or where you want to coordinate timing with other devices, such as alarms or strobes. If any of these apply to your site, choosing a REX device with an integrated timer, like the RVN-REX-T, is the smart choice. [Insert Image: Example of delayed egress setup – person pressing exit and door unlocking with a short delay]

Last updated on Jul 15, 2025

Wiring RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T with a Magnetic Lock

When integrating a Request to Exit (REX) device with a magnetic lock, it’s important to understand both the electrical requirements of the maglock and how the button’s contact terminals work. Magnetic locks require constant 12V DC power to remain locked and unlock by removing power, making the wiring logic of your REX device critical. Both the RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T come with three terminals: COM (Common), NC (Normally Closed), and NO (Normally Open). For direct-to-lock wiring, you’ll typically use COM and NC to interrupt the 12V+ line going to the maglock. When the button is pressed, the NC contact opens, cutting power to the lock and unlocking the door. The RVN-REX-T version adds a timer delay circuit that extends this unlock period from 1 to 60 seconds, offering more flexibility for ADA access or slow-moving doors. [Insert Image: Diagram showing RVN-REX-T directly wired to interrupt power to a maglock] For access control panel integration, most modern systems provide a request-to-exit input (REX IN) and a door lock relay output. In this case, the REX button (RVN-REX or RVN-REX-T) connects to the REX input on the panel using the COM and NO terminals. Pressing the button signals the panel to momentarily deactivate the lock relay, which cuts power to the maglock through its designated relay output. [Insert Image: Diagram showing RVN-REX connected to access control panel’s REX input, with relay output controlling the maglock] This method is preferred in systems where the access control panel manages door timers, logging, and security events. However, using the RVN-REX-T with an onboard timer still offers local fallback or override capability without relying on the panel’s logic.

Last updated on Jul 15, 2025

Wiring RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T with an Electric Door Strike

Unlike magnetic locks that need constant power to stay locked, most electric door strikes are fail-secure, meaning they remain locked until power is applied to unlock. This difference changes how your Request to Exit (REX) devices — like the RVN-REX and RVN-REX-T — should be wired. Wiring with a 12V/24V Power Supply Both models feature COM (Common), NO (Normally Open), and NC (Normally Closed) terminals. For direct-to-strike wiring, you’ll use COM and NO. When the button is pressed, the circuit closes, sending 12V power to the door strike and releasing the latch to allow exit. The RVN-REX-T adds a local adjustable timer, holding the circuit closed for 1 to 60 seconds, which is useful when a longer hold-open time is needed. [Insert Image: Wiring diagram of RVN-REX-T connected to a 12V power supply and fail-secure door strike using COM and NO] Wiring with a Controller Panel When using an access control panel, the REX device is typically connected to the panel’s REX input, also using COM and NO. When pressed, the panel receives the signal and activates its door strike relay output, applying 12V to the strike. This method enables better logging, delay control, and integration with schedules or alarms. [Insert Image: Diagram showing RVN-REX connected to panel REX input, with panel relay sending power to strike] Whether you’re wiring directly or through a panel, make sure your strike is rated for the power being supplied and that your REX button is securely mounted near the door for clear, accessible egress.

Last updated on Jul 15, 2025