What is the primary purpose of an electric strike?

The primary purpose of an electric strike is to replace traditional locks and work with electronic openings. An electric strike is an electromechanical device that allows a door to remain locked while providing the ability to unlock it electronically. This mechanism integrates with various access control systems, enabling authorized users to gain entry without the need for a physical key.

Electric strikes facilitate the use of keycard readers, keypads, and biometric scanners, effectively modernizing entry points and improving convenience for users while maintaining security. They are designed to accommodate a range of door types and locking mechanisms, which makes them versatile in both residential and commercial settings.

The other options involve functions that are either ancillary to the electric strike's capabilities or not directly related. Backup power supplies are important for ensuring locks remain operational during power outages but do not define the primary function of an electric strike. Ensuring manual access control primarily pertains to traditional locking mechanisms rather than electronic ones. Enhancing physical security through barriers is a broader concept not specifically tied to the function of electric strikes but rather applies to overall building security systems.