Product Overview
The AX-4 is the low-voltage member of the Reno A&E AX single-channel loop detector family. In a gate system, the detector connects to an inductive loop cut into the driveway and changes its relay state when a vehicle changes the loop inductance. That signal can be used to open an exit gate, keep a gate open while a vehicle is in the path, or provide a vehicle call to a parking or access controller. The AX design is best understood as a single-channel, single-output detector: one loop input and one relay output, with setup handled by DIP switches for sensitivity, frequency, pulse options, presence behavior, delay, and sensitivity boost. Because this is an older detector platform, correct fitment depends on more than the Reno name. The technician should match the original model number, voltage, socket wiring, output logic, fail-safe/fail-secure requirement, and loop function before replacing the module.
Compatible With
This detector may be used with the following applications when the original voltage, connector style, output logic, and control-board documentation match:
- Select gate operators, barrier gates, parking controllers, and access-control panels using a compatible 11-pin loop detector socket and low-voltage detector power.
- Older Reno A&E AX-4 low-voltage detector installations.
- Low-voltage AX Series applications using 10-35V AC/DC detector power.
- Exit loop, safety loop, presence loop, and vehicle call applications where one relay output is sufficient.
- Commonly cross-shopped with Reno AX-4, AX4, AX-4-S, AX4S, BX-4, BX4, SKT-11 socket, and 802-4 harness references when voltage and output requirements match.
Features and Specifications
| Manufacturer | Reno A&E |
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| Product Type | Single channel vehicle loop detector |
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| Part Number | AX-4 / AX4 |
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| Application | Vehicle detection for gate, parking, and access control loops |
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| Compatible Operator Type | Operators or controllers with compatible 11-pin detector socket/wiring |
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| Input Power | 10-35V AC/DC low-voltage AX model |
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| Channels | 1 loop channel |
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| Outputs | Single relay output |
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| Loop Frequency | Four selectable operating frequencies |
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| Sensitivity | Four selectable sensitivity levels |
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| Connector | 11-pin detector socket style - verify original installation |
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| Notes | Older AX family; compare voltage and output requirements before replacing with newer BX style detector |
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Also Known As / Related Part Numbers
These numbers and search variations are related to this product family. They should not be treated as exact replacements unless the voltage, connector, and detector function are confirmed.
- AX-4
- AX4
- AX-4-S
- AX4S
- Reno AX-4
- Reno A&E AX4
- AX Series 4
- BX-4
- BX4
- SKT-11
- 802-4
Technician Note
Loop detector problems are not always caused by the detector module. A damaged loop, wet splice, poor lead-in cable, wrong sensitivity setting, frequency interference, or a loop installed too close to moving gate steel can create false detection or missed vehicles. Match the detector first, then test the loop and operator input before returning the gate to service.
Before Ordering
- Match the detector input power to the original unit and operator control voltage: 10-35V AC/DC low-voltage AX model.
- Verify the connector style and pin layout before ordering: 11-pin detector socket style - verify original installation.
- Confirm the required output style for the operator input: Single relay output.
- Check whether the original application uses presence, pulse-on-entry, pulse-on-exit, fail output, or safety/hold-open logic.
- Inspect loop wire, lead-in cable, splices, and pavement cuts before assuming the detector module is the only failed part.
Important Ordering Warnings
- Do not interchange 120VAC, 240VAC, and low-voltage detector models by appearance alone.
- Do not assume fail-safe and fail-secure versions are interchangeable.
- Confirm 11-pin socket detectors versus plug-in Molex style detectors before ordering.
- Check whether the application needs relay outputs or solid-state outputs.
Professional Advisory
Do not use a loop detector as a replacement for required monitored photo eyes, safety edges, or entrapment protection devices. For high-voltage detector power, damaged wiring, nuisance gate movement, or uncertain safety-device wiring, have the system checked by a qualified gate technician.
Product Questions and Answers
Is the AX-4 the low-voltage version of the AX detector?
Yes. The AX-4 is the low-voltage AX Series detector and should be matched to low-voltage detector power, not 120VAC or 240VAC installations.
Can I replace an AX-4 with a BX-4?
BX-4 is commonly used as the newer low-voltage BX family replacement path, but the output wiring and detector function should be confirmed before changing from AX to BX.
Does this detector work for both exit and safety loops?
It may be used for either function when the gate operator wiring and programming support it. The detector wiring must match the intended exit, safety, or presence input.
What should I check before replacing the detector?
Check loop resistance, loop insulation, lead-in wire, splices, socket wiring, input voltage, and the original detector settings before assuming the AX-4 module is bad.
Is this a substitute for photo eyes or safety edges?
No. A loop detector can help with vehicle detection, but it does not replace required monitored photo eyes, safety edges, or entrapment protection devices.