FAQ: Red Hub FAQs

Q: How does a Red Lock communicate with a PDK system?

A: Red Locks will communicate to the PDK.io platform through the PDK Red Hub. Red Hubs must connect to the local network via Ethernet and communicate with Red Locks via Bluetooth. A collection of Hubs creates a wireless network (HubNet) that allows Locks to establish optimal connections for optimal performance and resilience. Unlike other lock gateways, the Red Hub does not require a controller connection.

Q: Where will the Red Lock and Hub appear in PDK.io?

A: During the installation process, Red Locks and Hubs will be found using Discovery. After installing the Red Lock, it will be seen in the PDK.io UI as a Device on the system, similar to wired doors. You can see and interact with the Locks on the Devices, System Health, and States pages. Hubs will also be visible in PDK.io under the Connections and System Health pages.  

Q: What is the range between a Red Lock and a Red Hub?

A: The communication range is 100 feet line-of-sight, in a typical indoor environment, when using the External Antenna.  If you are using the Internal Antenna, you can expect a line-of-sight range of 70 feet.

Q: How is the Hub powered?

A: The Hub is powered using PoE. Most PoE+ and PoE++ switches are backward compatible with PoE, so they can be used as well. There is an option to connect it to a 12V DC power source (power supply not included) when PoE is not available.

Q: How many Hubs do I need for my system?

A: This will vary with each system, depending on the location of the Locks and the environment where they are installed. A Hub can support up to 16 Red Locks. 

Q: What happens if I have one Hub on a system and it loses connection to the Cloud Node?

A: The Red Lock supports Controller Continuity similar to Red Controllers and will continue to accept credentials that are stored on the Lock if the Hub loses connection to the Cloud Node or the Lock loses connection to the Hub. To prevent downtime, we recommend building redundancy into your system by installing multiple Hubs, especially at critical access points. This ensures your Locks remain online even if one Hub goes offline. 

Q: Where should the Hub be installed?

A: Environmental factors can affect HubNet performance. As a general rule, place the Hub in a central location relative to the Locks. The Hub can typically reach up to 100 feet indoors, provided there is a line of sight. Installing the Hub at a higher location (such as on a wall or ceiling) usually improves signal strength.

Q: How does the optional external antenna help my signal strength? 

A: The optional External Antenna extends the Hub’s signal range and improves reliability in challenging environments, such as areas with heavy walls, interference, or long distances between the Hub and Locks. The Antenna will also enhance the signal's directionality. 

Q: Can I connect my Hub wirelessly?

A: No, all Red Hubs require an Ethernet connection on the same network as the Cloud Node. The Hub can be powered over PoE or a standard 12V DC power source.