Product Overview
The Reno A&E BX-3 is the 120 VAC model in the BX Series single-channel detector family. It is designed for one inductive loop and is commonly installed in slide gate operators, swing gate operators, barrier gate cabinets, parking lanes, telephone entry systems with gate control, and commercial access-control panels. Compared with older detector styles, the BX Series gives technicians easy access to setup using external DIP switches and a sensitivity rotary switch, along with relay outputs that can be used for presence, pulse, or loop fault related functions depending on the control wiring. The BX-3 is not just a generic detector; it must match 120 VAC detector power and an 11-pin style socket or harness. It is a common service direction for 120V detector replacements, but voltage, output mode, and fail-safe or fail-secure requirements should be confirmed before installation.
Compatible With
- Select gate operators, barrier gates, parking control systems, and access-control panels requiring a 120 VAC 11-pin single-channel detector.
- BX Series installations where the original detector label calls for BX-3, BX3, or Model BX-3.
- Common exit loop, safety loop, hold-open loop, free-exit, and vehicle-presence loop applications when wired to the correct controller input.
- Service replacement candidate for some older 120 VAC Reno detector applications, including B-3 style installations, when relay behavior and wiring are verified.
- Compatible with Reno 802-4 style 11-pin harnesses and SKT-11 style socket bases when the pinout and cabinet wiring match.
Features and Specifications
| Manufacturer | Reno A&E |
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| Product Type | BX Series single channel vehicle loop detector |
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| Part Number | BX-3 / BX3 |
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| Application | Vehicle detection for access-control, gate, barrier, and parking systems |
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| Input Voltage | 120 VAC nominal, commonly listed as 89 to 135 VAC |
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| Output Type | Dual relay outputs |
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| Connector Style | 11-pin Amphenol-style detector connection |
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| Setup | Eight external DIP switches and eight-position rotary sensitivity switch |
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| Related Voltage Models | BX-4 low-voltage and BX-8 240 VAC are related BX Series models |
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| Notes | Match voltage and output configuration before replacing older detectors |
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Also Known As / Related Part Numbers
Technician Note
For nuisance calls or missed vehicles, check the loop size, number of turns, lead-in twist, ground faults, and sensitivity setting. Detector replacement alone will not correct a bad loop installation.
Before Ordering Checklist
- Confirm the old detector is BX-3 or another verified 120 VAC 11-pin detector.
- Verify 120 VAC power at the detector socket.
- Confirm the installation uses one loop channel.
- Record the original DIP switch and sensitivity settings before removal.
- Check whether the controller uses relay A, relay B, or both outputs.
Important Ordering Warnings
- Do not substitute BX-4 or BX-8 unless the supply voltage and application are changed to match.
- Some older listings may mix AX and BX wording; use the original part label and voltage as the final check.
Professional Advisory
Vehicle loop detectors and related wiring parts should be installed with the operator power off and tested with the gate, barrier, or door system in a controlled position. Do not bypass required safety devices. If the installation involves high voltage, damaged conduit, wet junction boxes, or uncertain relay wiring, use a qualified gate or access-control technician.
Product Questions and Answers
What voltage is the BX-3?
The BX-3 is the 120 VAC version of the Reno A&E BX Series single-channel detector.
Does the BX-3 have one loop channel or two?
It is a single-channel detector for one loop input, with dual relay outputs for different control functions.
Can BX-3 replace a B-3 detector?
It may be used as a service replacement in some 120 VAC installations, but the socket wiring, relay behavior, and fail mode must be verified.
What applications use this detector?
BX-3 detectors are commonly used for exit, safety, presence, hold-open, and vehicle-detection loops in gates, barrier arms, and parking systems.
Is the BX-3 interchangeable with BX-4?
No. BX-3 is 120 VAC and BX-4 is low-voltage. The correct model depends on the detector power supplied by the control cabinet.
