Balanced Magnetic Switches

Normal position by the magnet, it is possible to defeat a "plain" magnetic switch by placing a strong
magnet near the switch, thus preventing the contacts from actuating when the normal switch magnet
is moved away (e.g., door opened). For this reason, the only acceptable type of magnetic switch for
most DoD applications is the balanced (or biased) magnetic switch (BMS).
BMSs are available in both surface mount and recessed configurations and in many model and style
variations. Surface-mounted models for high security applications must be equipped with tamper
alarm protection. Recessed models are inherently protected against tampering since the actual door
frame must be attacked first to gain access to the switch components.

The following application and installation considerations apply to BMS:

A. Biased Magnetic Switch. This switch consists of one reed switch with a biasing magnet that
changes the state of the reed switch. The actuator magnet is then placed at the correct
distance to offset the bias magnet, creating a "balanced" condition. This type of switch can
be defeated with the use of a single magnet, but the person must have the correct size
magnet, correct polarity, and must not bring the second magnet too close to the switch.
Correct installation of the actuator magnet is essential. It could be defeated by an expert
using a single magnet of the correct size and polarity and placed in a critical location.

B. Balanced Magnetic Switch. This switch consists of one biased reed switch and one
unbiased reed switch. The second reed must be of the correct sensitivity and position to not
operate with the actuator magnet.
It must operate with the addition of a second magnet. This type switch requires an
adjustment of the actuator magnet at the time of installation and should be periodically
checked for adjustment. It could be defeated by an expert using a single magnet that is
moved into place as the door is opened. This would require a coordinated movement of the
door and magnet from inside the protected area.

C. Preadjusted Balanced Magnetic Switch. This switch consists of three biased reed switches
and may have an optional fourth tamper reed. Two reeds are polarized in one direction and
the third is polarized in the opposite direction. Steel is built into the switch so that mounting
on steel will have no effect during installation and the adjustment will remain correct. The
magnet housing consists of three magnets with the polarity that corresponds to the switches
and also has steel backing. The unit is preadjusted to have a fixed space between the switch
and magnet. Field adjustments are not possible or necessary. This switch is for applications
which require the highest degree of security. The unit with three reeds could be defeated
with one of its own magnets, but not a bar magnet. The unit with four reeds cannot be
defeated with either a bar magnet or another actuator magnet, since the tamper or fourth reed
will activate when the actuator magnet or any other magnet is brought within actuating
distance.

D. Door type and fit are important considerations in BMS model selection. Doors may tend to
move due to wind or internal changes in air pressure. If this movement is excessive, BMSs
will produce nuisance alarms.
 The choice between surface mounted or recessed BMS may be governed by door

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