Can an intercom system directly trigger and open a smart electronic lock or deadbolt?

What Is a Relay in an Intercom System?

A relay is an electrically operated switch built into (or added to) an intercom system. When someone presses the door release button on an intercom panel, app, or handset, the relay closes an electrical circuit — allowing power to flow to the connected door lock or gate opener, which then releases or opens.

Not All Intercom Systems Include a Relay

Many consumer-grade WiFi intercoms — such as Ring video doorbells — do not include a built-in relay. To trigger a smart lock or gate opener with these systems, you typically need a third-party integration device (such as a smart lock hub or Z-Wave controller) that bridges the intercom app with the lock.
Commercial and professional-grade intercom systems, by contrast, almost always include one or two built-in relays that can be activated from a receiving phone, indoor intercom station, or door entry radio fob.

Common Relay Features in Commercial Intercom Systems

Intercom systems with built-in relays typically offer a range of configuration options, including:

• Dual relay support — Two independent relays (N/O and N/C) for controlling separate devices, such as a pedestrian gate and a vehicle gate, or a front door and a side entrance. Relays commonly handle up to 3A at 30V DC or 250V AC.
• Adjustable relay activation time — Each relay can be set to activate for a specific duration (e.g., 3 seconds to release a door strike, or longer for a sliding gate). Some systems also support timed automatic opening schedules.
• Relay latching — A relay can be latched to stay active indefinitely until manually switched off — useful for holding a gate open during business hours or a delivery window.
• Customizable activation labels — The default button label (e.g., "Gate Open") can often be renamed to "Door Open," "Unlock," or any label that makes sense for your installation.
• Multiple trigger methods — Relays can typically be activated via the intercom app, a physical door station button, a PIN code entry, or a QR code scan, depending on the system.

When Do You Need a Relay?

You need intercom relay capability any time you want to:

• Release an electric door strike or electromagnetic lock (mag lock) remotely
• Open an automatic gate (swing, slide, or barrier arm)
• Trigger any other electrically controlled access device from the intercom

If your intercom system lacks a relay and you want door release functionality, look for systems that either include a relay module or explicitly support third-party relay add-ons.