Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
The LNL-1320 is part of the Lenel access-control hardware architecture used with OnGuard systems. Its role is to sit between the host intelligent system controller and field devices such as card readers, keypads, door-position switches, request-to-exit devices, and door-lock hardware.
The module provides two reader interfaces, eight monitored inputs, and six relay outputs. This makes it suitable for controlling and monitoring a two-door access-control installation while keeping the field wiring concentrated at the DRI.
The model exists in multiple hardware generations. The Series 3 architecture differs materially from earlier versions, particularly in reader communications and security features. Therefore, LNL-1320, LNL-1320-S2, and LNL-1320-S3 should not be treated as interchangeable solely from the base model number.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | LNL-1320 |
| Function | Dual Reader Interface |
| Reader Ports | 2 |
| Inputs | 8 supervised/non-supervised alarm inputs |
| Relay Outputs | 6 |
| Relay Type | Form-C |
| Reader Communications | Data 0/Data 1, Clock/Data; RS-485 depending on series |
| Host Interface | RS-485 |
| Power | 12–24 VDC depending on revision |
| Reader Power | 12 VDC regulated or input-voltage pass-through depending on series |
| Operating Temperature | Series-dependent |
| Mounting | Access-control enclosure / panel |
| Application | Two-reader/two-door access control |
The Series 3 LNL-1320 documentation identifies eight inputs, one RS-485 interface, two reader interfaces, six relay outputs, one power input, cabinet tamper, and configuration switches.
A Series 2 specification source lists 12 VDC, approximately 125 mA power consumption, dimensions of 152 × 203 × 25 mm, approximately 290 g, and an operating temperature of 0–70°C. These figures should be treated as Series 2-specific, not universal to every LNL-1320.
Reader Compatibility
The LNL-1320 supports common access-control reader interfaces, including:
- Wiegand Data 0/Data 1
- Clock/Data
- Keypads
- RS-485 reader interfaces on applicable hardware generations
The Series 3 documentation specifically identifies support for TTL D1/D0, Clock/Data, F/2F, and 2-wire RS-485 devices.
LNL-1320
LNL-1320
Field Application & the “Trench” Experience
The LNL-1320 is typically installed where two card readers and associated door hardware must be integrated into a Lenel access-control system.
A typical deployment can include:
- Two card readers
- Two door-position switches
- Two request-to-exit devices
- Door-lock/strike outputs
- Auxiliary alarm outputs
- Host RS-485 communication
The six relay outputs can be assigned to door strikes and auxiliary functions. In the documented Series 3 configuration, the outputs are organized as:
- RLY 1 — Door 1 strike
- RLY 2 — Door 1 auxiliary 1
- RLY 3 — Door 1 auxiliary 2
- RLY 4 — Door 2 strike
- RLY 5 — Door 2 auxiliary 1
- RLY 6 — Door 2 auxiliary 2
Troubleshooting Approach
If both readers connected to an LNL-1320 stop communicating simultaneously, don’t immediately replace both readers.
Check in this order:
- Module power supply.
- Host RS-485 communication.
- Reader-port power.
- Reader wiring.
- Data/clock polarity and termination.
- Door input status.
- Relay operation.
- Module diagnostics and status LEDs.
If only one reader fails while the second continues operating, the fault is more likely to be localized to the reader, reader wiring, or individual reader interface.
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
For New Surplus or Refurbished LNL-1320 stock, the test should reproduce the actual access-control functions.
Identification
Verify:
LENEL- Series designation
- Hardware revision
- Serial number
- PCB revision
- Reader-interface configuration
Physical Inspection
Inspect:
- Reader terminals
- RS-485 terminals
- Relay contacts
- Input terminals
- Power terminals
- DIP switches
- Status LEDs
- PCB corrosion
- Relay damage
- Connector condition
Functional Test
A proper test should include:
- Apply the correct DC supply for the specific revision.
- Verify module startup.
- Establish host RS-485 communication.
- Connect two compatible reader simulators/readers.
- Verify credential-data reception.
- Test all eight input points.
- Exercise the six relay outputs.
- Verify status LEDs.
- Confirm stable operation over repeated access cycles.
For refurbished stock, testing all six relay outputs and multiple reader channels is considerably more meaningful than simply confirming that the PCB powers up.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Trap #1 — Confusing LNL-1320 with a PLC module.
The LNL-1320 may appear in industrial automation spare-parts databases, but its actual function is access-control reader interfacing. It is part of the Lenel security/access-control architecture.
⚠️ Trap #2 — Ignoring the Series number.
Lenel documentation distinguishes Series 1, Series 2, and Series 3 versions. Series 3 supports newer reader communication/security capabilities that earlier versions do not necessarily provide.
⚠️ Trap #3 — Assuming 12 VDC and 24 VDC descriptions are contradictory.
They can reflect different hardware generations/configurations. One legacy listing specifies 12 or 24 VDC, while a Series 2 specification gives 12 VDC. Verify the actual board before applying power.
⚠️ Trap #4 — Ordering the legacy part without checking its replacement.
The original LNL-1320 is listed as discontinued, with -S3B identified as its replacement in one current industrial spare-parts reference.
PRO TIP: For a replacement RFQ, specify:
Lenel LNL-1320 Dual Reader Interface Module — exact Series/revision required; verify reader protocol, power configuration, and replacement compatibility before shipment.
Dynamic FAQ
What is Lenel LNL-1320?
The LNL-1320 is a Dual Reader Interface (DRI) module for Lenel access-control systems. It connects two readers/keypads and associated door hardware to the host access-control controller.
How many readers does it support?
It supports two reader interfaces.
How many inputs and outputs does it have?
The documented Series 3 board provides eight inputs and six relay outputs.
What reader protocols does LNL-1320 support?
Depending on the hardware series, supported interfaces include Wiegand Data 0/Data 1, Clock/Data, F/2F, and RS-485.
Is LNL-1320 discontinued?
The original LNL-1320 is currently listed as discontinued by the manufacturer, with -S3B identified as a replacement.
Can -S3 replace an older ?
Do not assume a blind drop-in replacement. Verify the series, reader communication method, firmware, wiring, power configuration, and OnGuard/controller compatibility before migration.
What should I provide when ordering?
Provide the complete LNL-1320 model and Series designation, PCB revision, serial number, reader protocol, and clear photographs of the board and terminal connections. This is particularly important when replacing Series 1 or Series 2 hardware with newer Series 3 equipment.
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