Linear EP-EXN 720-200104 EntryPro Expansion Node Technical Details
The Linear / Nice EP-EXN 720-200104 is a networked two-door expansion node for compatible EntryPro telephone entry and access-control systems. It provides the processing, I/O connections, enclosure, power supply, and licensing needed to add two controlled openings and four readers at another location on the property's EntryPro network.
The EP-EXN is useful for remote buildings and access points such as pool houses, community rooms, secondary entrances, parking areas, pedestrian gates, and detached facilities that require access control but do not need another visitor display or telephone entry keypad.
What the EP-EXN Adds
- Two additional controlled doors, pedestrian gates, or access points
- Four reader connections
- Entry and exit reader capability for each controlled opening when configured accordingly
- CPU-based network participation and local node processing
- Door-lock and auxiliary relay functions
- Door-position, request-to-exit, and auxiliary input functions
- License capacity for two additional doors and four additional readers
- Expansion capability to four doors and eight readers with EP-ACM 720-200105
The node does not provide a display, visitor directory, telephone-entry keypad, microphone, or speaker. It is designed to operate as part of a compatible networked EntryPro installation.
Confirmed EntryPro Compatibility
- Compatible networked Linear EP EntryPro systems
- Compatible networked Linear EN telephone-entry systems
- EP-436 networked EntryPro installations
- EP-736 networked EntryPro installations
- EP-402 systems that have been properly upgraded, licensed, and configured for supported network operation
- Other EntryPro installations specifically documented to accept EP-EXN 720-200104
Exact compatibility must be verified from the host controller model, part number, software version, network license, and current expansion documentation. A standalone EntryPro panel may require a network license or system upgrade before an expansion node can be added.
Included CPU and Distributed Processing
The EP-EXN includes its own CPU board. EntryPro architecture uses networked modules that can retain and process access-control information while sharing programming and event data across the system.
The CPU does not make the EP-EXN a complete standalone telephone-entry system. The node must be commissioned as part of a supported EntryPro network with the correct server and client configuration.
Only one primary access-control server database should be configured within a networked EntryPro installation. Additional panels and expansion nodes must be assigned the correct client or node role according to the current software instructions.
Two-Door I/O Board Functions
The included I/O board is designed around two controlled openings. The documented EntryPro two-door hardware architecture provides the following functions:
- Two door-lock relay outputs
- Two programmable auxiliary relay outputs
- Two door-position monitor inputs
- Two request-to-exit inputs
- Two auxiliary inputs
- Four Wiegand reader connections
- Reader power, ground, Data 0, Data 1, LED, and beeper connections
The four reader connections are commonly arranged as one entry reader and one exit reader for each door. They may also be programmed differently when supported by the EntryPro software and current wiring documentation.
Compatible Reader Types
The EP-EXN supports compatible Wiegand-output readers. Depending on the reader and system configuration, the node may be used with proximity readers, smart-card readers, keypad-readers, radio receiver interfaces, or other access devices that provide a supported Wiegand output.
Verify all of the following before selecting readers:
- Reader operating voltage
- Reader current draw
- Wiegand bit format
- Facility code
- Credential-number range
- Entry or exit reader assignment
- Reader cable distance
- Shielding and grounding requirements
- Available controller database capacity
Wiegand wiring compatibility does not guarantee credential compatibility. The EntryPro decoder and database must also support the credential format used by the reader.
Entry and Exit Reader Arrangement
Each of the two controlled openings can commonly use an entry reader and an exit reader. This allows the system to record movement in both directions and may support access-control functions such as in-and-out tracking or anti-passback when properly licensed and programmed.
An exit reader is not the same as a request-to-exit device. Required free-egress hardware, push buttons, motion sensors, crash bars, and fire-release equipment must remain operational independently of credential acceptance.
Form C Door and Auxiliary Relays
The EntryPro I/O board uses Form C dry-contact relay outputs with normally open, normally closed, and common terminals. Two relays are normally assigned to door-lock functions, while two additional relays can be programmed for auxiliary functions such as alarms, shunting, gate control, or other approved low-voltage interfaces.
The relay contacts do not supply operating voltage. Electric strikes, magnetic locks, door operators, and other powered devices require a properly rated external power supply.
Official Linear documents conflict on the relay contact rating. General EntryPro feature text states 5A at 24 volts, while an official wiring diagram states 3A at 24 VAC/DC maximum. Check the current board label and installation sheet before connecting any load.
Use an appropriately rated interposing relay when the gate input, locking device, voltage, current, inductive load, or inrush current exceeds the verified EP-EXN relay rating.
Door-Position, Request-to-Exit, and Auxiliary Inputs
The documented I/O arrangement provides separate monitoring and control inputs for each door:
- Door-position input: Monitors whether the controlled door or gate is open or closed.
- Request-to-exit input: Accepts a signal from a push button, motion detector, loop detector, or other approved exit device.
- Auxiliary input: Supports an additional supervised or unsupervised monitoring function when configured by the installer.
Input circuits can have normally open, normally closed, supervised, or unsupervised configuration options depending on the software and hardware revision. Confirm the required resistor arrangement and input programming before wiring field devices.
Included 12 VDC 2A Plug-In Power Supply
The current EP-EXN product listing identifies a 2A plug-in power supply as included. EntryPro hardware documentation describes the system as operating from approximately 9-15 VDC, with normal operating voltage in the 11-13 VDC range.
The included supply is intended for the EP-EXN electronics and compatible reader load. It should not automatically be used to power electric strikes, magnetic locks, gate operators, barrier arms, door operators, or other field equipment.
Provide a separate listed power supply for locking hardware and other powered loads. Include surge suppression or transient protection appropriate for the connected device.
Reader Power Calculations
Before connecting four readers, total the maximum current draw of every reader and accessory. Allow for startup and peak current, cable voltage drop, temperature, and future service margin.
Do not assume that the included 2A supply can support the EP-EXN, four high-current readers, and powered locking hardware at the same time. Follow the current EntryPro power-budget instructions and use a separate power distribution system when required.
Ethernet Network Connection
The EP-EXN connects to the compatible EntryPro network through Ethernet. Each networked module requires proper IP configuration, network addressing, and communication with the host system.
EntryPro installation instructions recommend assigning a static IP address rather than relying on a dynamically assigned DHCP address. Coordinate the IP address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS settings, network segmentation, and security requirements with the property's IT administrator.
Complete the initial configuration according to the current instructions before connecting the node to the building network. Change factory login credentials and maintain the access-control equipment on a protected or segmented security network.
Included Cabinet and Tamper Switch
The EP-EXN is supplied in a lockable metal cabinet with a tamper switch. The cabinet protects the CPU, I/O board, power connections, and field wiring from casual access.
The tamper switch can be integrated into the EntryPro system or a separate alarm circuit according to the current wiring instructions. A lockable cabinet does not replace proper room security, restricted key control, monitored alarms, or secure network practices.
Published Cabinet Size
Older official EntryPro literature publishes the following EP-EXN cabinet information:
- Approximately 14.2 inches high
- Approximately 13.3 inches wide
- Approximately 3.6 inches deep
- Approximately 7.2 pounds
Confirm current production dimensions, mounting-hole locations, conduit clearances, and cabinet weight before drilling or replacing an older enclosure.
Installation Environment
No specific NEMA or IP rating was confirmed for the EP-EXN cabinet. Choose a protected mounting location whenever possible and prevent roof drainage, irrigation, standing water, condensation, and direct water flow from entering the enclosure.
- Use listed conduit and fittings appropriate for the location.
- Seal cable entries without blocking required drainage openings.
- Provide proper earth grounding.
- Use surge protection on power, network, reader, and outdoor control wiring where required.
- Keep low-voltage access wiring separated from line-voltage and motor conductors.
- Do not mount the cabinet directly to a moving door or gate.
Expansion With EP-ACM 720-200105
The EP-EXN can be expanded by installing the Linear EP-ACM 720-200105 two-door add-on I/O board kit. This increases the node from:
- Two doors to four doors
- Four readers to eight readers
The EP-ACM is a separate product. Before adding it, verify cabinet space, CPU and I/O board revision, USB or board connection, power capacity, firmware, software licensing, and available system door capacity.
EP-EXN Compared With Older EN-EXN
- EP-EXN 720-200104: Current EntryPro two-door expansion node with CPU, I/O board, cabinet, power supply, and two-door license.
- EN-EXN 720-100104: Older two-door expansion node listed for legacy EN and EntryPro systems.
- EP-ACM 720-200105: Current two-door add-on I/O module associated with EP-EXN expansion.
- EN-ACM: Older add-on module name associated with legacy EN-EXN documentation.
The older and newer expansion nodes have similar stated capacities, but the different part numbers may indicate CPU, software, connector, licensing, or hardware-generation differences. Do not substitute them without verifying the existing system and current Linear parts documentation.
Similar Products That Are Not Automatically Interchangeable
- Linear EN-EXN 720-100104 legacy expansion node
- Linear EP-ACM 720-200105 add-on I/O board kit
- Standalone EP-402 telephone-entry panel
- Networked EP-436 or EP-736 telephone-entry panels
- Main CPU replacement boards sold without an enclosure or I/O board
- Two-door controllers from Linear eMerge or another access-control family
- Standalone Wiegand controllers
- Relay-only expansion modules
- Power-distribution modules for electric locks
Features and Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Linear / Nice |
| Model | EP-EXN |
| Part Number | 720-200104 |
| Product Type | Networked EntryPro access-control expansion node |
| Base Door Capacity | Two doors |
| Base Reader Capacity | Four readers |
| Expanded Capacity | Four doors and eight readers with EP-ACM 720-200105 |
| CPU Included | Yes |
| Two-Door I/O Board Included | Yes |
| Base Door and Reader License | Included for two doors and four readers |
| Display | Not included |
| Local Keypad | Not included |
| Reader Interface | Compatible Wiegand readers |
| Reader Arrangement | Entry and exit reader connections for two doors when configured accordingly |
| Door Relays | Two Form C dry-contact lock relays in the documented I/O architecture |
| Auxiliary Relays | Two programmable Form C dry-contact relays in the documented I/O architecture |
| Relay Rating | Verify current board label; official documents conflict between 3A and 5A at 24 volts |
| Door-Position Inputs | Two in the documented I/O architecture |
| Request-to-Exit Inputs | Two in the documented I/O architecture |
| Auxiliary Inputs | Two in the documented I/O architecture |
| Network Connection | Ethernet TCP/IP |
| Included Power Supply | 12 VDC 2A plug-in power supply |
| Documented System Input Range | Approximately 9-15 VDC; verify current product label |
| Lock Power | Separate properly rated power supply normally required |
| Cabinet | Lockable metal cabinet with tamper switch |
| Published Cabinet Dimensions | Approximately 14.2 inches high x 13.3 inches wide x 3.6 inches deep in older official literature |
| Published Weight | Approximately 7.2 pounds in older official literature |
| Enclosure Rating | No specific NEMA or IP rating confirmed |
| Standalone Operation | No; requires a compatible networked EntryPro system |
Package Contents
- One Linear / Nice EP-EXN expansion node
- One EntryPro CPU board
- One two-door, four-reader I/O board
- One lockable metal cabinet with tamper switch
- One 12 VDC 2A plug-in power supply
- License for two additional doors and four additional readers
Confirm current factory packaging before publishing. Ethernet cable, Wiegand readers, credentials, lock power supplies, batteries, surge protection, field wiring, conduit, and installation services are not listed as included.
Required but Not Included
- Compatible networked EntryPro host system
- Ethernet network connection and static IP configuration
- Compatible Wiegand entry and exit readers
- Access cards, key fobs, mobile credentials, or keypad credentials
- Electric strikes, magnetic locks, gate interfaces, or door operators
- Separate power supplies for locks and powered field devices
- Door-position switches
- Request-to-exit devices
- Field wiring, conduit, grounding, and surge protection
- Required fire-release, emergency-access, and free-egress equipment
- Professional programming, commissioning, and testing
Before Ordering Checklist
- Confirm model EP-EXN and part number 720-200104.
- Identify the host EntryPro panel and its part number.
- Confirm that the host is configured for networked operation.
- Verify the current EntryPro software and firmware version.
- Check available system door, reader, and node capacity.
- Confirm that the included two-door license meets the project requirements.
- Verify reader voltage, current draw, and Wiegand format.
- Confirm facility codes and credential-number ranges.
- Calculate the total reader and accessory power load.
- Provide separate power for electric locks and other field devices.
- Verify relay ratings from the current board label.
- Confirm cabinet size, mounting surface, conduit access, and environmental protection.
- Determine whether future EP-ACM expansion will be required.
- Verify that the existing system does not require older EN-EXN 720-100104 hardware.
Installation and Professional Advisory
The EP-EXN should be installed, networked, and programmed by a qualified access-control or low-voltage technician familiar with Linear EntryPro systems. Disconnect all power before mounting boards, connecting readers, wiring inputs, or servicing relay circuits.
Do not apply line voltage to the CPU or I/O board. Follow the current Linear instructions for earth grounding, network configuration, reader wiring, power calculations, transient suppression, and relay connections.
Do not bypass fire-alarm release, free-egress hardware, request-to-exit devices, emergency access, mechanical override, gate entrapment protection, or other required life-safety functions.
Product Questions & Answers
What is included with Linear EP-EXN 720-200104?
The node includes a CPU, two-door I/O board, lockable metal cabinet with tamper switch, 12 VDC 2A plug-in power supply, and license for two doors and four readers. Readers, credentials, lock power, and field wiring are separate.
How many doors and readers does EP-EXN support?
The base EP-EXN supports two controlled doors and four reader connections. The readers can commonly be arranged as entry and exit readers for each door.
Can EP-EXN operate as a standalone access controller?
No. EP-EXN is a networked expansion node without a display or local keypad. It requires a compatible EN or EP EntryPro host system, network configuration, and system programming.
Which EntryPro systems can use EP-EXN?
EP-EXN is intended for compatible networked EN and EP EntryPro systems. Verify the host panel model, software version, network license, available node capacity, and current Linear compatibility documentation before ordering.
Can EP-EXN be expanded beyond two doors?
Yes. Adding EP-ACM 720-200105 increases a compatible EP-EXN from two doors and four readers to four doors and eight readers total.
What type of access readers connect to EP-EXN?
The node accepts compatible Wiegand-output readers. Reader voltage, current draw, bit format, facility code, credential technology, and EntryPro decoder support must all be verified.
Can the included 2A power supply operate electric locks?
Not normally. The included supply is intended for the EP-EXN electronics and approved reader load. Electric strikes, magnetic locks, gate interfaces, and other powered field devices should use separate properly rated power supplies.
What is the difference between EP-EXN and EN-EXN?
EP-EXN 720-200104 is the newer EntryPro expansion node, while EN-EXN 720-100104 is an older two-door expansion node. Verify the host system, CPU generation, software, connectors, licensing, and add-on module requirements before substituting either model.
