What to Do When the IO1 Module Fails?

It was sad to see the end of an era after MOBOTIX announced the End-Of-Life for the T26 door station. While I admit that its configuration wasn’t the easiest task sometimes, its flexible and modular approach opened up worlds, combining a true security system with a VoIP-capable door phone. The fans of the T-Stations were thrilled to be able to control so much more than just a door latch or a gate while having a dull 2-way communication device.

Unfortunately, MOBOTIX has not yet announced a suitable successor for the door station, and at this time, it is questionable whether they will. Early rumors have not become reality, and so, while we’re hoping for one, the major question is: how to keep our T-Stations going until either the main unit needs replacement or there are truly no more parts available.

One of the most important devices in keeping the door station going is the I/O module, which houses and controls the input and output dry relays. Since we cannot control anything analog without a properly functioning relay. The good news is that if the IO1 module breaks, it can be replaced with other modules:

a) The MOBOTIX Keypad / BellButton Module

Should the T-Station have a Keypad or a BellButton Module, then its INPUT/OUTPUT relay can be used instead. However, the one limitation is that this module only has one relay of each type, but as long as only one is needed, the solution is easy. The cables connected to the relay portion of the IO1 have to be rewired to the OUT or IN connectors of the Keypad / BellButton Module. Then only the configuration has to be adjusted.

b) The RS1 (RS232-IO-Box) Module

In cases where there’s no Keypad or BellButton Module, the RS1 Module needs to be used. With this module, we still get 2 OUT and 2 IN relays, which function exactly as the ones from the IO1. In some way, the output relays function even better since this device is capable of self-powering the electric latch on the other end.

The downside of this alternative is its size. While the IO1 was slim enough to sit behind the main T-Station module, the RS1 comes with its own housing and surely doesn’t fit. This requires a bit of a redesign to find a suitable place where the RS1 can be hidden. Of course, it is completely capable of sitting on the outside just from its environmental rating.

After exchanging the modules, the configuration has to be changed accordingly, but then the system will function the same way it did when using the IO1.

For those who prefer to use a connector board, similar in size and look to the IO1, IO2 boards are still available… if not directly from MOBOTIX, then from other partners who have them in stock. Just reach out to us at 972-831-1600 #3 or sales@abptech.com, and we’ll happily connect you to the ones who still have some.

Check out the RS1 quick installation manual.

Of course, we’re equally happy to help you make the switch and change the configuration. Just let us know.

Again, it is sad that we have to go that distance to keep a good thing working, but as long as it works, it just doesn’t make sense to throw it away… and in case you have to, our current prime alternative would be the Fanvil Door Phone series: i60 to i68.