Nortech — People & Vehicle Access Solutions
NanoQuest Compact Door Controller

NanoQuest Compact Door Controller

N-QUEST-01

'Small but Powerful'


Secure, single door self-contained access control system. A compact one-piece proximity card reader/access controller combination that supports up to 500 users.

Product features & benefits

In addition to access control, the NanoQuest can provide a secure method of controlling other devices such as intruder alarm panels, lights and heating.

The unit can also output card data in RS232 format when in 'NanoQuest' mode, and in both RS232 and 26-bit Wiegand format when in 'Reader' mode so that it can be used as a standard card reader as part of a future migration to a larger system.

User cards can be supplied as packs with shadow cards and batch enrolment cards. Programming is achieved through the use of a Master card, precluding the need for a host PC or controller.

Guaranteed for 5 years against defects and workmanship, the NanoQuest is a reliable and cost-effective product.

Benefits

  • Compact and easy to install, saving time and space
  • Up to 500 unique users
  • Simple single and batch card enrolment
  • Provides a secure means of controlling auxiliary devices such as intruder alarms
  • Door monitoring and alarm output provide additional security
  • Can convert to a simple card reader for cost-effective upgrading to a full system

Specifications

Electrical

Supply Voltage 9V DC to 16V DC
Current Requirement < 70 mA

Physical

Dimensions (mm) 111 x 49 x 19 (H x W x D)
Colour Standard = charcoal grey
Material ABS polycarbonate
Rating IP65 - suitable for outdoor and indoor use

Environmental

Operating Temperature -30°C to 50°C Ambient

outputs

Strike Relay Change-over contacts rated at 1A at 30V DC. Programmable strike time 0.5 to 10 seconds or latching
Auxiliary Output Open-collector output for external alarm (latch or pulse options)
Alarm Open-collector output for external alarm (latch or pulse options)
Wiegand Data 26-bit Wiegand data for use with external controller
Serial Data RS232 (10 digits plus CR) for output to external system

inputs

Free Exit Clean contact, ground to activate
Auxiliary/Arming Clean contact, ground to disable, open contact to enable
Door Monitor Clean contact, ground to indicate door closed (if activated)

card types

Master Card Used for Configuration and adding/removing User cards
User Card Used to gain access to restricted area
Auxiliary Card Used to gain access to restricted area and to activate auxiliary devices
Batch Card Used to quickly enrole a batch of cards

Connection

Pigtail Cable Length 500mm as standard - 3m option available on request
Conductors 15

operational

Reading Range Up to 80mm depending upon the type of card or token
Buzzer On/Off selectable
Indicators Tri-colour LEDs

Related documents

Datasheets, manuals and guides for the NanoQuest Compact Door Controller. Every file is a PDF and opens in a new tab.

All-in-One Access Control for Small Sites and Secure Equipment Rooms

The NanoQuest is purpose-built for environments where space is limited but security cannot be compromised. Small offices, server rooms, utility cupboards, retail stockrooms, and equipment enclosures all benefit from its compact 111 x 49 x 19mm footprint that integrates both the proximity reader and controller into a single unit.

Its IP65 weatherproof rating makes it equally suitable for external plant rooms, warehouse side doors, and outdoor storage facilities where exposure to dust and moisture is a concern. The charcoal grey ABS polycarbonate housing blends seamlessly with modern interior designs while withstanding the rigours of industrial settings.Beyond door control, the NanoQuest excels in auxiliary device management scenarios.

Facilities managers deploy it to arm and disarm intruder alarm panels with a simple card presentation, eliminating the need for separate keypads or codes that staff may forget. Building operators use the auxiliary output to control lighting in restricted areas or activate heating systems in seasonal-use spaces.

The administration card system—where each user card has a corresponding shadow card—simplifies credential management: if an employee loses their card, the facilities team simply presents the shadow card to instantly revoke access without needing a PC or software connection.

Frequently asked questions

How many users can the NanoQuest support?

The NanoQuest supports up to 500 authorised users. Cards and fobs can be enrolled individually as needed, or in batches using the supplied batch enrolment card for larger deployments.

Can the NanoQuest be used outdoors?

Yes. The unit carries an IP65 rating, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. It operates reliably in ambient temperatures from -20°C to 50°C.

How do I add or remove user cards without a computer?

All programming is performed using the supplied Master card—no PC or software is required. Present the Master card to enter configuration mode, then present user cards to enrol or remove them. Shadow (administration) cards can be used to delete a specific lost card without affecting other users.

Can I upgrade to a larger access control system later?

Yes. The NanoQuest can be switched to Reader mode, where it outputs card data in 26-bit Wiegand or RS232 format. This allows it to function as a standard proximity reader connected to a networked controller such as the CRC221 series, protecting your initial investment.

What voltage does the NanoQuest require?

The unit accepts a supply voltage of 9V DC to 16V DC with a maximum current draw of 70mA, making it compatible with most standard access control power supplies.

Case studies

NanoQuest Compact Door Controller in use

NanoQuest Providing Effective Access Control for Hampshire School

The client Orchard Junior School in the village of Dibden Purlieu, Hampshire, where the staff pride themselves on their...

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Norpass3 Makes Managing Holiday Facility Access a Walk in the Park

The client The Haulfryn Group is one of the UK's largest family owned groups of prestigious holiday and residential...

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Glenmorangie Singles Out Norpass3

The client The Glenmorangie Company Limited, a leading highlands based scotch whisky producer with over 160 years...

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