Aiphone Vehicle Detection Failed? Troubleshooting Steps
For many businesses and residential properties, an Aiphone entry system is integrated with a gate or barrier that opens automatically when a vehicle approaches. This vehicle detection is a crucial part of a seamless access control system. When it fails, it can cause significant disruption and security concerns. This guide will explain how Aiphone vehicle detection typically works and walk you through the common causes of failure and how to troubleshoot them.
How Aiphone Vehicle Detection Works
It is important to understand that the Aiphone intercom or video station itself does not detect the vehicle. Instead, the Aiphone system has input terminals that are designed to connect to an external detection device. The most common device used for this purpose is an electromagnetic induction loop.
- Induction Loop: This is a coil of wire buried in the surface of the road or driveway. A detector module passes a current through this wire, creating a magnetic field. When a large metal object, like a car or lorry, drives over it, it disrupts the field. The detector module senses this change and sends a signal (usually a simple relay contact closure) to the Aiphone system to let it know a vehicle is present.
The Aiphone system then performs a pre-programmed action, such as opening a gate, triggering a call, or activating a camera. Therefore, when vehicle detection fails, the problem almost always lies with the induction loop or its associated detector module.
## Step 1: Visual Inspection
Start with a simple visual check of the system components.
- Check the Driveway: Look at the surface of the driveway where the loop is installed. You can often see the cut lines where the wire was buried. Do you see any signs of recent damage, construction, or cracks in the surface? The loop wire is delicate and can be easily cut.
- Inspect the Detector Module: The induction loop wires connect to a control box called a loop detector module. This is usually located in a nearby weatherproof box or inside the gate operator housing. Open it and look for any obvious signs of trouble. Are the indicator lights on? Is there any sign of water damage or loose connections?
## Step 2: Observe the Loop Detector Module
The loop detector module is your best diagnostic tool. It will have LED indicator lights that tell you its status.
- Power Light: Ensure the module has a "Power" light that is on and stable. If not, there is a power supply issue to the module itself.
- Detect/Status Light: The module will have another light that indicates the loop's status. Normally, this light is off. When a vehicle drives over the loop, this "Detect" light should turn on.
Perform a simple test:
- Have someone drive a vehicle and stop over the buried loop.
- Observe the "Detect" light on the module.
- If the light turns on: This means the loop and the detector module are working correctly. The problem is in the connection between the module and the Aiphone system.
- If the light does not turn on: This means the problem is with the loop itself (it's likely been cut) or the detector module has failed.
## Step 3: Check Connections and Sensitivity
If the detector light turns on but the Aiphone system doesn't respond, the issue is with the link between them.
- Check Wiring: Inspect the wires running from the detector module's relay output terminals to the Aiphone system's input terminals. Ensure they are secure and not corroded.
- Check Aiphone Programming: It is possible that the programming within the Aiphone system that tells it what to do upon receiving the signal has been accidentally changed or erased. You may need to enter the system's programming to verify that the input is correctly configured to trigger the desired action.
If the detector light does not turn on, you can try adjusting the sensitivity.
- Adjust Sensitivity: The detector module will have a dial or switch to adjust its sensitivity. It's possible it has been set too low. Try increasing the sensitivity slightly and re-test. Be careful not to set it too high, as this can lead to false detections.
## Step 4: When to Call a Professional
Troubleshooting induction loops can be difficult without the right equipment. If the visual checks and sensitivity adjustments don't solve the problem, it is time to call a professional access control or gate automation technician.
They have the tools to:
- Test Loop Integrity: Using a special meter, they can measure the inductance and resistance of the loop to definitively determine if it has been cut or damaged.
- Diagnose Faulty Modules: They can test the output of the detector module to see if it is functioning correctly.
- Repair or Replace: Professionals can locate the break in a damaged loop and repair it, or install a new loop if necessary.
By following this guide, you can perform the initial diagnosis to understand where the failure in your vehicle detection system is likely occurring, saving time and helping you communicate the problem effectively to a technician.