1

HT24W / HT28 Smart

Technical Manual
Version 2.x

Release, 10/2002
Contents
Hardware.....................................................................................................1
Communications Windows Distributor H2XCMDIW.........................................................1
Description.............................................................................................................1
Connections............................................................................................................1
Specifications.........................................................................................................2
Special Windows Distributor Uses........................................................................2
Portable Programmer............................................................................................................3
Description.............................................................................................................3
Connections............................................................................................................4
Maintenance...........................................................................................................4
Specifications.........................................................................................................5
Gemplus GemPC410 – External Smart Card Encoder.........................................................5
Description.............................................................................................................5
Connections............................................................................................................5
Specifications.........................................................................................................6
Online Revalidator................................................................................................................6
Description.............................................................................................................6
Connections............................................................................................................6
Specifications.........................................................................................................7
HTCOMBO Safe..................................................................................................................8
Operation................................................................................................................8

HT28 Lockset..............................................................................................9
Description...........................................................................................................................9
Light Indications.................................................................................................................10
Lock States.........................................................................................................................10
Office Mode.........................................................................................................10
Standard Mode.....................................................................................................10
Privacy Mode.......................................................................................................10
Modes of Operation............................................................................................................11
Normal Guest Room Mode..................................................................................11
Foyer ...................................................................................................................11
Selective ..............................................................................................................11
Maintenance.......................................................................................................................11
Diagnosis..............................................................................................................11
Debris in the Reader.............................................................................................11
Cleaning the Reader.............................................................................................11
Cleaning the Lock Body......................................................................................12
Specifications.....................................................................................................................12

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information..........................................13

General Description............................................................................................................13
Differences Between HT24DOS and HT24W/HT28 Smart (v2.x)....................................13
File Descriptions.................................................................................................................14
…\Onity\HT28\....................................................................................................14
…\Onity\HT28\Data\...........................................................................................15
…\Onity\HT28\LocalDir\....................................................................................16

Contents •
i
 System Limits.....................................................................................................................16
Creating Locking Plans......................................................................................................17
General.................................................................................................................18
Configuration.......................................................................................................18
Lock Hardware Configuration.............................................................................23
Calendar...............................................................................................................24
Time Tables..........................................................................................................25
Masters.................................................................................................................26
Locks....................................................................................................................27
Keying .................................................................................................................30
Peripherals............................................................................................................33
Cards....................................................................................................................35
Flags.....................................................................................................................37
PMS Interface.....................................................................................................................41
TCP/IP..................................................................................................................41
HTCOM Device Communication.......................................................................................41
IPCOM Device Communication........................................................................................41
Software Tools....................................................................................................................42
Data Menu – Restore Tables................................................................................42
Data Menu – Test Database Integrity..................................................................42
Data Menu – Pack Tables....................................................................................42
Restore Codes......................................................................................................43
Restore Backup....................................................................................................43
Load HT22...........................................................................................................43
Parameters for Special Configurations...............................................................................44
/D directory name.................................................................................................44
/Snumber..............................................................................................................44
/NOVERIFY........................................................................................................44
/REVALIDATOR................................................................................................44
/NOREVAL.........................................................................................................44

Contents •
ii
Hardware

Communications Windows Distributor

H2XCMDIW

Description
The H2XCMDIW Win Dist is used to convert standard RS232
(19200 baud) from a PC to the proprietary Onity HTCOM RS485
network of devices.
The unit is powered by an external 12VDC transformer and has
three (3) LED indicators. The LED labeled POWER is lit
whenever the unit is powered. The LED labeled IN flashes when
a packet of information is received from the PC. The LED
labeled OUT flashes whenever an HTCOM packet is received
from a Onity device.

Connections

Hardware •
1
 1. 12VDC Power Input 6. DB9F HTCOM connector for PP
cable
2. DB9M RS232 input from PC 7. HTCOM indicator
3. Terminal connector for repeater 8. RS232 indicator
4. DB9F HTCOM cable connector 9. Power indicator
5. Terminal connector for wall
readers, etc.

To the PC
The PC is connected to the rear of the Communications
Distributor using a standard NULL Modem cable. Unlike previous
Onity communications distributors, the Windows distributor
communicates at 19200 baud using standard RS232. This
connection is usually to the PC, but we can use the standard
protocol to our advantage to use other devices to extend the
HTCOM network in ways that were never possible before.

To the HTCOM Network

Onity HTCOM devices can be connected with standard HTCOM
cables to the Win Distributor through either of the female DB9
connectors. Devices, such as wall readers, that require a two-
wire HTCOM connection must connect to the AB connector on
the rear of the unit. If you need to make your own cable with
DB9 connector, use A to pin 3 and B to pin 2. Also on the rear of
the unit is a 5 conductor terminal connection for a repeater.
There is no new repeater required for the HT24W / HT28 Smart
system, as the existing HT24 repeater works on both HT24DOS
and HT24W / HT28 Smart systems.
The HTCOM network uses a proprietary adaptation of the RS485
communications protocol. This 9600 baud communications
protocol cannot be retransmitted or converted by any known,
off-the-shelf device. This means that the HTCOM network can
only exist with proper wiring and within the 4500 foot distance
limit. This distance may be increased by using special
equipment such as repeaters.

Specifications
Display: Three (3) red LED’s.
Case Material: Black ABS.
Dimensions: 2" x 6" x 6 1/4".
Weight: 1.0 lb.
Operating Voltage:12 volts DC.

Special Windows Distributor Uses

Because the Windows distributor can convert the proprietary
HTCOM protocol to standard RS232, there is enough flexibility to
solve almost any Onity network problem.

Hardware
•2
 There are many devices on the market today to convert RS232
to Ethernet. This means that a string of Onity encoders can be
placed at a remote check-in point using an existing LAN or WAN.
This solution is an expensive one, but is solves a problem that
previously could not be solved.
The diagram below is a real example of using protocol
conversion to accomplish a networking challenge. In this
example, the property had two buildings separated by a great
distance and the only existing link between buildings was over
fiber optic cable. The Onity server was connected to the PMS
server in the computer room. A local encoder is connected to
encode master cards. The other encoders are at the front desk
in another building. The property had the necessary equipment
to transfer RS232 over the fiber, so Onity simply used the
existing equipment.

Portable Programmer

Description
The Onity Portable Programmer is used to transfer data
between the main computer and the electronic locks.

Hardware •
3
 1. Connection to Onity Locks
2. Connection to PC

Connections
To the Lock
Connect the Portable Programmer (PP) to a lock or offline reader
by inserting the PP plug into the jack on the bottom of the lock
or reader. Turn the programmer on, and use the menu button to
select an option. If required, use the cursors to select the proper
door information from the list, and press the TX key to initiate
communications.

To the Computer
Connect the Portable Programmer (PP) to the computer
using the 9-pin connector on the top of the PP and a standard
Onity HTCOM cable. This cable may be plugged directly into the
PP connector on the front of the Onity Communications
Distributor.

Maintenance
The only maintenance required on the Portable Programmer is
changing the batteries when they are low.
The PP uses four (4) AA alkaline batteries. The batteries will last
for 50 hours of operation. To extend battery life, the PP will

Hardware
•4
 automatically turn itself off after 30 seconds of inactivity. When
the batteries are removed from the PP, the PP will lose all of the
information recorded in its memory. Simply reload the PP from
the computer to begin normal operation.
The battery compartment is located on the back of the PP. Slide
the battery cover up to expose the batteries for maintenance.
Be sure to insert the batteries in the correct polarity. Polarity
markings can be found at each battery position.

Specifications
User Interface: Membrane keypad.
Display: 2 x 16 character LCD.
Case Material: Black ABS.
Dimensions: 7-1/2” x 4” x 1-7/8”.
Weight: .70 lb. without batteries; .92 lb. with
batteries.
Operating Voltage: 6VDC supplied by 4 AA Alkaline
batteries.
Memory Capacity: 128K RAM available for storage of data.

Gemplus GemPC410 – External Smart Card

Encoder

Description
The Gemplus GemPC410 External smart card Encoder is used to
read and write information to the smart cards used in the Onity
HT28 Smart System.
The green LED on the top of the unit is the only indication used
by the GEMPC410. The LED flashes every second when
powered and is lit continually until the card is removed after a
read/write operation.

Connections
The GemPC410 encoder is connected to the PC/PMS - RS232
connector on the rear of an HT22i encoder. The encoder
controls the Onity HTCOM communication with the PC and
monitors the status of the Gemplus encoder.
A 5VDC power connection is required to operate the GemPC410
encoder. It has a PS/2 connector for this purpose.

Hardware •
5
 Specifications

Display: One (1) green LED

Case Material: White ABS with detachable base
Dimensions: 3-1/2” x 3-1/2” x 5/8”
Weight: .30 lb.
Operating Voltage: 5VDC MAX

Online Revalidator

Description
The Online Revalidator provides a way to securely manage staff
cards. Each staff card holder can be required to "recharge" his
or her key at a management defined interval by using the
Online Revalidator. The Online Revalidator comes in either a
Magnetic Stripe version or a Smart Card version.

Connections
The operating component of the Online Revalidator is an HT22i
encoder. This encoder will either have the magnetic stripe card
reader/writer or be modified to hold a Gemplus GEMPC410
smart card reader/writer. Regardless of the type of encoding
device, the connections to the HTCOM network are the same.
This HTCOM connection is made by connecting 18/2 Shielded
Cable to the AB connection of the HT22i. (See #2 in diagram
below). This cable may need to be Plenum rated as well. Power
is supplied by a 12VDC 1.2A power transformer. If using the
smart card version, a separate 5VDC 1A power transformer
must be added to power the smart reader/writer. This is
connected in the same way the Gemplus External Smart Card
Encoder power connection is made. (See previous section.) The
Gemplus Smart Card DB9 connection is made to #3 in the
diagram below.

Hardware
•6
 1. Not Used With This System 6. On/Off Switch
2. HTCOM Connection – AB Format 7. Not Used With This System
3. RS232 Connection 8. HTCOM Connection
4. 12VDC Power Input 9. HTCOM Connection
5. Strain Relief

Specifications
Display: 7x20 character LCD
Case Material: Aluminum and Steel
Dimensions: 14-5/16" x 9-9/16" x 4-1/2" - Surface
Mounted
14-5/16" x 9-9/16" x 3-13/16" – Flush
Mounted
Weight: 12.4 lb. Surface Mounted; 9.4 lb.
Flush Mounted
Operating Voltage:12VDC HT22i and 5VDC Gemplus Smart
Card Encoder

Hardware •
7
HTCOMBO Safe
The Onity HTCOMBO guest room safe is designed to provide in
room storage of guest valuables. The safe is designed to resist
forced entry attacks using common hand tools. It is operated by a
user selectable 4 digit code entered by each new user of the safe.

Operation
Upon arrival at the hotel the guest receives a new room key. This
key may contain an optional authorization that may be required to
operate the safe. Upon arrival to the room the guest opens the
door as usual. To operate the safe the guest inserts the room key
into the safe reader. (The safe MUST be unlocked). Upon insertion
of the card both the green and red LED’s illuminate. The guest
should enter any random 4 digit code number. Both LED’s will
flash rapidly for 1 second, then go out. The guest should close the
door and enter the code again to confirm the code and lock the
safe. To unlock the safe again, enter the code number. The guest
card is not used to operate the safe; it is only used to program the
code number for a new guest. Instructions for using the safe are
provided in the form of a large cardboard card suitable for wall
mounting and a decal affixed to the outside of the door of the safe.
The card is provided in English, French, Spanish, and German.

Should the guest arrive in the room and discover that the safe is
locked, the guest card will not operate the safe. Under these
conditions, the safe must be opened by management using either
the safe master card or the Portable Programmer.

Hardware
•8
HT28 Lockset

Description
The Onity HT28 lock is stand-alone dual technology lock that
can read smart cards and high or low coercivity magnetic stripe
cards. The lock can open to as many as 250 different cards
identifying each card individually in a 500 record audit trail.

1. Rear View 8. Battery Access Cover

2. Side View 9. Battery Access Cover Screw
3. Front View 10. Portable Programmer
Connection
4. Privacy Indicator 11. Mounting Posts
Connection
5. Clear Button 12. Spindle
6. Light Indicators 13. Escutcheon Screws
7. Card Insertion Slot 14. Back Cover Screws

HT28 Lockset •
9
Light Indications
To operate the guestroom lock, insert and remove the card. The
LEDs located to the immediate left of the card slot will display one of
the following indications:
• Green Light – Valid Opening. Operate the handle to gain
access to
the room.
Note: For Smart Cards, if the lock is configured not to
open until the card is removed, the lock will read the
card and the green light will blink slowly until the card
is removed.
• Red Light – Invalid Attempt. Card may have expired, been
voided by a new guest card, or may be for a different room.
• Alternating Red and Green Lights – Privacy indication or card
out of shift.
• Flashing Red Light – Blocked.
• Flashing Green Light – Office Mode.
• Delayed Red Light (Illuminates six seconds after card
insertion) – Card not encoded or incorrectly inserted.
• Green Light with Flashing Red Light – Low battery indication.
• Flashing Green and Red Lights – This is the indication when
using a canceling card.

Lock States

Office Mode
The lock can enter Office Mode (free passage – no card
required) automatically at scheduled times or by inserting an
authorized card twice in immediate succession. The act of
inserting the card twice is known as ‘double dipping’. When the
card is removed from the lock following the second insertion the
green light will flash indicating the mode change.
The lock will remain in this mode until it is double dipped by
another authorized card, or it is scheduled to automatically re-
lock.

Standard Mode
This is the normal operation of the lock. An authorized card that
is not yet expired and is within its shift can unlock the door.

Privacy Mode
If the privacy indicator on the inside of the lock is activated,
only certain cards with a special ‘Privacy Override’ attribute can
unlock the door. Cards without this attribute will invoke an
alternating green and red light as described in the previous
section.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •10
Modes of Operation

Normal Guest Room Mode

The standard operation of an HT28 lock is normal guest room
mode. In this mode, a single guest card code is allowed to enter
along with any selected master cards. To gain access, the card
must have the proper site code, the correct card code, any
applicable authorization, within the activation and expiration
date.

Foyer
A foyer lock does not keep an audit trail or card codes. To gain
access, the card must have the proper site code, any applicable
authorization, and within the activation and expiration date.

Selective
The selective lock is a combination of corridor and back-of-
house locks found in HT24DOS systems. Essentially, a selective
lock is a freely keyable lock that can accept as many as 250
users with an audit trail, or 500 users without. Guest room keys
and staff cards can be set to have access in the locking plan. To
gain access, the card must have the proper site code, the
correct card code, any applicable authorization, within the
activation and expiration date.
Note: You can encode cards and make copies and one-shot
cards for a selective lock.

Maintenance

Diagnosis
The TEST function of the portable programmer should be used
to properly diagnose any Onity lock. This test will check the
functionality of the privacy and card detection switches and the
battery level. If an invalid card is inserted, the PP will display
the reason for the denial.

Debris in the Reader

If small debris should be inserted into the card slot it will most
likely fall through the insertion path into a collection area.
However, if this collection area becomes full of debris and the
card insertion path is blocked, the reader can be easily
disassembled. Remove the four screws labeled 13 in the
diagram above to remove the reader cover and clean out the
collection area.

Cleaning the Reader

Over time, poor quality cards, dust, salt and other elements
build up and may cause the magnetic read head or the smart

HT28 Lockset •
11
 card contacts in the lock to read poorly. In extreme cases, there
can be a noticeable loss in performance. The problem can
easily be solved by using ‘reader cleaning cards.’ Cleaning the
readers once or twice per year will prevent this build up in most
cases.

Cleaning the Lock Body

The only safe and effective way to clean the body of the lock is
with a wet cloth. The use of solvents, thinners, polishes or
abrasive materials on the lock will damage the finish. Some
Onity locks undergo a varnishing process over the finish that will
be severely damaged by products mentioned above.

Specifications
Display: One (1) green LED, One (1) red LED
Dimensions: 11-1/8” x 2-3/4” x 2”
Weight: 6.5 lb.
Operating Voltage: 6VDC supplied by 4 AA Alkaline
batteries.
Operating Temperature: -40° - 167 ° F
Humidity: Up to 95% without condensation

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •12
HT24W / HT28 Smart
Technical Information

General Description
HT24W / HT28 Smart is the first Windows based hotel
management software from Onity. The features of the system
are largely the same as HT24DOS with a few additions made
possible by the power of modern software and hardware. This
manual will not assume any prior knowledge of the HT24DOS
system.
HT28 Smart can be used with HT24 locks and magnetic cards or
the new HT28 locks which can read magnetic and a variety of
smart cards.

Differences Between HT24DOS and

HT24W/HT28 Smart (v2.x)
HT24W / HT28 Smart adds a few new features to the hotel
management system. The following list highlights the major
enhancements. This is used as reference only and may not be a
complete list.
• The ability to use smart cards as well as magnetic
cards – HT28 locks only. The smart cards can
maintain a record of locks that have granted
access to the card.
• Loading of Daylight Savings Time information into
the locks.
• Three day types – HT22 has this feature.
• Multi-tasking communications – Load the portable
programmer without interrupting PMS or other
activity.
• IPCOM communications network allows
workstation PCs to control multiple encoders or
other devices.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 13
File Descriptions
HT24W / HT28 Smart is written in Delphi and uses relational
Paradox database tables. This combination provides a robust
platform with an established history. Because the tables are
relational, any changes to one table may affect others. Be
aware of this when deleting or copying files. Paradox databases
have the file extension .db and require an index file with the
extension .px.
If the index files are missing, HT24W / HT28 Smart will require
the tools program to recreate the indexes.
The following is a list of files, their location, and some general
comments about their purpose.

…\Onity\HT28\
• HT28.exe – this is the primary executable file for
the software. This program includes the user
software and the system build/modification
software.
• Tools.exe – this executable provides tools that
can diagnose and fix corrupted files.
• _isreg32.dll – this library is used by HT28.exe
• tutil32.dll – this library provides utilities
specifically for the software to operate with other
Onity equipment.
• HT28.bmp – This bitmap file is displayed while the
software loads and checks the status of the
database tables.
• Mensa.db/px – this database contains all of the
messages displayed in the program. Includes any
loaded languages.
• Ht28.cnt – this file is the contents of the on-line
help system.
• Ht28.hlp – this on-line help file contains all of the
information provided in the users manual.
• _deisreg.isr – required file used by Delphi
• DeIsL1.isu – required file used by Delphi
• Messages.xx – this file is a plain text file that
contains all of the messages displayed in the
software. One of these files is required for each
language used. The file extension is used to
identify the language.
• Returns.txt, Support.txt, Sales.txt – this is a plain
text file used by the English on-line help file that
provides the proper contact information for the
end user. This file must be changed to reflect the
proper contact information for the customer.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •14
 …\Onity\HT28\Data\
• Auditor.db/px – contains the system audit records
• Calendar.db/px – contains the day types and
holidays for all years established during system
build
• Configur.db/.px – contains information about the
site, such as system code, authorization names,
etc.
• Confreva.db/px – contains the parameters for the
Emergency mode of the revalidator
• Group.db/.px – contains the current list of groups
• Grrooms.db/.px – contains the list of rooms
assigned to the current groups
• Keying.db/.px – contains the access list for each
lock
• Levels.db/.px – contains the PIN level required to
access each menu item
• Lockaux.db/.px – contains the related locks
information
• Locks.db/.px – contains the list of locks defined
during system build
• Locktype.db/.px – contains the list of all defined
hardware types
• Masters.db/.px – contains the list of assigned
master cards
• Mastuser.db/.px – contains the list of master users
established by the customer
• Network.db/.px – contains information about the
PC workstations
• Newcod.db/.px – contains information about new
codes for the encoders
• Operator.db/.px – contains the list of operators
and related information
• Perifs.db/.px – contains the list of peripherals
defined during system build
• Planperi.db/.px – contains the access list for any
online devices including readers and identifiers
• Semaphor.db/.px – contains data used to prevent
the modification of some databases by different
users at the same time
• Shifts.db/.px – contains the list of shifts and
automatic changes defined for each day type and
time table
• System.db/.px – contains data used internally to
track available codes

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 15
 • Timechan.db/.px – contains the dates of Daylight
Savings Time changes established during system
build
• Timetabl.db/.px – contains the list of timetable
names
• Flags.ht2 – this ASCII text file contains all of the
flags to customize the features of the system
• Pdoxusrs.net – used by the database engine to
maintain control of the databases
• *.x*, *.y* - index files used by the database
engine to manage the data more quickly.

…\Onity\HT28\LocalDir\
The localdir folder contains information about the PC that is
used in network systems. This information is used by the local
PC and the server to keep control of the database tables when
there are multiple users. Do not try to manipulate these
files – in doing so you could cause irreparable damage to the
Onity databases.

System Limits
The following is a list of limits of the HT24W / HT28 Smart
system and the HT28 locks.

Audits (HT28 500/00 With 250 users or less, the HT28 can
lock) store 500 audits. With over 250 users
no audits are stored.
Audits (HT24 100 With 15 users, 15 audits with 100
lock) users
Authorizations 8 Used to access amenities such as
concierge floors, pool, elevators, etc.
These amenities require the
authorization to be encoded on the
card, in addition, the card must be
authorized and within the activation
and expiration period.
Automatic Yes 8 automatic changes per day
Lock/Unlock
Day Types 3 Automatic changes and shifts can be
set to behave differently according to
3 day types.
Daylight Yes HT24 and HT28 locks will
Savings Time automatically adjust to one DST
change. The lock must be loaded 2
times each year to maintain the
correct date of the next DST change.
Dial Up Support Yes Through pcAnywhere
Encoded Track 1,2,3 Locks read track 3. Motorized
encoders can encode tracks 1 and 2

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •16
 for other purposes
Expiration Date Yes Selectable at time of encoding
Expiration Time Yes Selectable at time of encoding
Group pre- Yes
encoding
Selective lock None
limit
Initial Date/Time Yes Selectable at time on encoding
Master Types Up to The HT28 lock can accept up to 250
per Lock 250 master types. Note: Loading more
than 15 masters into each lock
requires more memory and reduces
the number of locks a PP can store.
Max. System 200,00 Selectable at time of setup. Default is
Audit 0 90 days.
Max. Locks 6000 Up to 10,000 with software revision
Max. Operators No
Limit
Multiple Cards Yes 3 room max for insertion mag-stripe
encoders.
4 room max with motorized or smart
card.
Off-line wall Yes
readers
On-line wall Yes
readers
Passwords 8 char
PMS Interface Yes 1200-19,200 baud through RS232
serial
Also available through Ethernet using
TCP/IP
Note: Protocol packets are the same
regardless of connection type.
Power Back-up UPS
Suites Yes
Safes HT
Combo
Temporary None
Masters
Time Shifts 8
Time Tables 200

Creating Locking Plans

Creating locking plans in the HT24W / HT28 Smart system is
very similar to previous Onity systems. However, this manual

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 17
 will provide enough information that a technician with no
experience with other Onity systems will be able to prepare a
locking plan. When appropriate, references will be made to
other systems so that experienced users will have direct
explanation of the differences and enhancements of HT24W /
HT28 Smart.

General
In the HT24W / HT28 Smart System, locking plan and other
modifications are accomplished through a built-in, hidden area
of the software. This hidden area is only accessible with a level
9 password or the maintenance password – the MODIfication
menu opens this portion of the software. The level 9 password
does not have complete access to all data, such as site code,
but is allowed to make general locking plan changes.
Because of the ability to completely change the system, any
and all PC workstations must be out of the software in order to
enter the MODIfications menu. If workstations are running the
software and a user tries to enter the MODIfications menu, a
message will appear stating that the databases could not be
opened in exclusive mode.
The modification screen is menu driven in a fashion similar to
MODI2 for HT24DOS systems. Some screens have multiple
views which can be accessed through a tabbed form. Each view
will be discussed thoroughly below.

Configuration
The configuration screen is where the most basic information is
entered. This information includes such data as the site name,
site code, authorization labels, emphasized authorization
assignments, etc. This screen is divided into 3 tabs, general
,options and technologies.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •18
 General Tab

• Date Last Edit – shows the date of the last

modification to the locking plan files.
• Edition – shows the number of modifications that
have been made to the locking plan.
• Hotel Name – defines the name of the property. This
information is not displayed, but is important for maintaining
the system.
• Address – defines the address of the property. This
information is not displayed, but is important for maintaining
the system.
• System Code – uniquely identifies each property and
prevents cards from other properties from opening the locks.
• Onity Maintenance – password that allows Onity
technicians to make modifications and have access to all
features and functions of the software.
• Maximum number of codes per lock – defines the
largest number of general master types and individual
master users allowed through the lock. With HT24 locks,
this number is 15 (see “System Limits” on page 16). With
HT28 locks, this number is 250. Be aware that increasing

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 19
 this number may use memory otherwise used for keeping
audit records. The number of locks that can be loaded into a
Portable Programmer depends on the number of masters in
each lock. Do not make this number any larger than is
absolutely necessary.
• Application language – the default language for
MODIfications screens and when the software is entered
with the maintenance password.
• Authorizations – up to 8 auxiliary privileges can be
granted with authorizations. Locks may require specific
authorizations to allow access.
• Description – displayed on new guest and guest
copy screens to allow the operator to select the
privileges to grant
• Emphasized – records are kept of the 'sale' of
each emphasized authorization. The record
includes the operator, date of transaction,
number of days on the card and authorization
number. If guests check out early, a negative
entry is made in this record.

Options Tab

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •20
 • Dates in USA format (month, day) – selects whether
dates are in US (month/day) or European (day/month)
format.
• Lock's custom fields – These fields can hold
information like building number, lock finish, location, floor,
etc. The information can only be seen from the MODIfication
screens.
• Dates –
• Use Initial Date – selects if and how an initial date is
used when encoding cards.
• Check-In hour – initial time starts at the top of the
hour before that card was encoded. Example,
encoded at 8:15, Start time = 8:00
• Specific Hour – all cards start at the time
indicated in the default box
Note: In versions 1.x of • Initial by default – the time
the software, Groups cards will begin to work if the specific time option is
cannot have a start selected
date unless the Use
Initial Date box is
checked
• Expiration Date –
• Disabled – no expiration dates are used in this
system
• Enabled – expiration dates are allowed, but not
required
• Obligatory – expiration dates are required on all
cards
• Expiration Time – the default time that the card
will expire
• Number of Nights – the default duration of the
card

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 21
 Technology Tab

Check the box for any card technology that will be used in the
system. If you select the Chip option there are some important
details that must be set on the Cards menu. The Cards menu
does not appear if the system is mag-stripe only.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •22
 Lock Hardware Configuration

• Lock Hardware – identification of this type. The ID

is used in the lock list to identify the hardware.
• Name of lock – description of the hardware type
• Opening Delay – the number of seconds the lock
will remain open after a valid card is used
• Opening only on withdrawn card – the lock will
unlock only after a valid card is removed from the
card slot. This prevents a guest from accidentally
leaving a card in the lock.
• Close when lever released – the lock will
automatically detect when the lever is used and
lock itself. This prevents unauthorized users from
following an authorized user through the door
while it remains unlocked.
• Guest card codes look ahead – the number of
future authorized codes the lock will recognize for
any user. If a new key is made for a user, the
lock recognizes the new code as being in its
lookahead and the code is advanced. Group
cards default to ½ the lookahead to prevent
group cards from locking out other guests.
• Master card codes look ahead – the number of
future master card codes the lock will recognize
for any master user.
• Low battery indication to guests – determines if
low battery indications are shown to the guests.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 23
 Calendar

The calendar in HT24W / HT28 Smart consists of 3 day types.

Day types affect the shifts and automatic changes of the locks.
If the property is not using shifts or automatic changes, choose
the option to make all days like work days.
The calendar also sets the dates for Daylight Savings time. With
this software, HT24 and HT28 locks are loaded with the date of the
next DST change. This change will happen automatically on the
appropriate day. This means that the locks must still be updated 2
times per year, but the update change does not need to be on the
day of the DST change. The software will automatically establish
the DST dates for each established year based on Windows
settings.
• Day of DST Forward - Select Day – select a date
on the calendar, then click the button to change
the DST date.
• Day of DST Backward - Select Day – select a date
on the calendar, then click the button to change
the DST date.
• Reset DST Dates – clears all DST dates for the
current year.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •24
 Time Tables

Timetables establish the hours that cardholders are allowed to

enter certain doors as well as the possible automatic changes
the lock can be programmed with. A guest can have only one
shift number; but as this shift depends on the table, the access
will change from one lock to another. Each cardholder can be
assigned one of eight shifts (or no shift) and each door can be
assigned to a timetable. The system can handle up to 200
different timetables.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 25
 Masters

The master cards list contains all of the master types that are
available. A property can set up many master users that all use
the same type. Master types can be set so that a certain
minimum password level is required to encode a card.
Each master type has a unique code that the lock must
remember, and each card of that type is encoded with that
code. An HT28 lock can hold codes for up to 250 master types
in memory. HT24 locks can hold codes for only 15 master types
in memory. (see “System Limits” on page 16)

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •26
 Locks
List of Doors

• Type – Mode of operation

• R – Room
This is the standard operating mode with only one
guest code accepted. New cards lock out old
cards.
• S – Suite
A Suite can be keyed to open to its own code and
the codes of any sub-suites immediately following
it in the rooms list . Each additional guest code
takes a slot for one master card. All guest cards
(Suite and sub-suite) are locked out if a new code
is presented for any of the guest cards.
• / - Sub-Suite
A sub-suite can be keyed to accept its own guest
code and the code of the suite door immediately
above it in the doors list. All guest cards (Suite
and sub-suite) are locked out if a new code is
presented for any of the guest cards.
• ? – Foyer lock
A foyer lock will open to any card with the proper
site code, any required authorization, and within
the activation and expiration dates. A Foyer lock
does not record an audit trail.
• * - Selective lock
A selective lock will open to multiple guest and
master cards. Each card is sequenced
individually. Audits are kept for each valid entry
if the number of users is within the masters limit -

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 27
 15 for HT24 (see “System Limits” on page 16),
250 for CT20/HT28.
• Room Number
Up to 7 letters or numbers – uniquely identifies
the lock
• Hardware type
Defines the opening delay and other features that
are set in the Hardware Types menu.
• Timetable
Defines the hours for each shift and the automatic
changes. The Default is '0' – no automatic
changes, all shifts are 24 hrs.
• Requested authorization
The lock can require an authorization to open, in
addition to the correct code. The default is '0' –
no authorization required.
• Office Function
A lock cannot go into office mode unless this
feature is checked. When checked, an automatic
change or a card with the office mode privilege is
required to put a lock in office mode.
• Programming card
The programming/spare card system will only
work in the lock if this feature is checked. Locks
in non-guestroom locations are typically left with
this feature unchecked.
• Related Locks
HTCombo safes operate off of the same code as
the guestroom lock on the room. The safe is
defined as a related lock for this room. This is
only one example of a related lock.
• Authorizations
Some authorizations, like the authorization
allowing the elevator to access a particular floor,
should be automatically assigned when a
guestroom card is encoded. Any automatic
authorizations should be checked in this list.
• Optional Authorizations
Some authorizations, such as an in-room safe, are
not given to each customer who occupies a
guestroom. These optional authorizations can be
assigned or denied at the time of check-in.
• Shift
This shift is automatically encoded on the
guestroom card at the time of check-in. The
default is '0' – no shift.
• Override Privacy
This check box defines if a guestroom card will
open the lock if the privacy switch is thrown from
the inside.
• Password level
There may be some guestrooms that only certain

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •28
 employees can check someone into. If the PIN or
Password level is set to 1, any operator can
encode the card. If the PIN is set to 5, only
operators with password levels of 5 or higher can
encode cards for this guestroom.

Related Locks

Related locks, such as HTCombo safes, operate with the same

cards as the lock they relate to. The related lock can, however,
have other parameters that are different from its lock.
• Name
This is the name of this type of related lock.
• Hardware type
Defines the door open time, lookahead, and other
parameters.
• Required Authorization
The related lock can require a specific
authorization to operate.
• Related Timetable
Related locks can automatically open and can
define shifts based on the timetable selected.
• Default Master Card
This master must be previously declared in the
masters list.
• Programming card
The spare card system will only function in a
related lock if the option is selected on this
screen.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 29
 Keying

To enter the keying plan for a room, highlight a room in the list
and click Modify. You can select any room that appears in the
selection screen. Red rooms are selected to have access to the
room. To select a group of rooms, hold the left mouse button
down and drag the mouse – then press the SPACE bar.
The list on the right of the main keying screen shows all of the
rooms allowed trough this lock and the room total.
Remember that locks cannot have more cards selected
than the setting on the Configurations screen.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •30
 Successive
The successive function
ADDS ALL of the
masters in the 'Copy'
list to the keying for the
selected rooms.

With the successive feature, you can easily copy the keying
from one lock to another. All masters in the 'Copy' list will be
copied. To remove a master from the 'Copy' list, highlight it and
press the DELETE key. In the example above, EK, FM1, GM, and
MM will all be ADDED to any existing keying for rooms 101-138.
The existing keying for these rooms will not change.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 31
 Delete

The delete feature works in a similar fashion to the Successive

feature. All of the masters in the 'Cards to delete' list will be
removed from the keying of the selected rooms. To remove a
master card from the 'Cards to be deleted' list, simply highlight
the master card and press the DELETE key.

Selective

Many cards can be authorized to open a selective lock. You can

use the Modify button to select individual locks from the list, but
sometimes a range of cards need to be assigned to a lock.
The Selective button allows you to select a beginning and end of
a range of guestroom cards that should have access to this
selective lock.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •32
 Peripherals

All online wall readers, revalidators, identifiers, and encoders

must be declared in the peripherals list. With the IPCOM
feature, peripherals can be connected to any workstation PC,
but all devices must be declared in this list.
Note: Declaring peripheral devices that are not
connected to an HTCOM network will slow down the
communications polling and may reduce system
performance.

Name – Applies to all

Enter the name of the device – Encoder 1, for example.

Peripheral Type – Applies to all

Choose the device type – Reader Writer, Wall reader or Identifier

Automatically Collect Openings – Applies to

Readers and Identifiers
Wall Readers and Identifiers can be programmed to send their
openings to the system automatically, or to hold the openings
until a report is requested. This feature will save time if more
than one PC will be used to view the openings report.

Required Authorization – Applies to Readers

and Identifiers
Identifiers and Wall Readers can be programmed only to accept
cards in the locking plan and with a specific authorization. Set
the required authorization on this screen.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 33
 Related Timetable – Applied to Wall Readers
Wall readers can be programmed to automatically open
according to a timetable. The timetable also assigns the hours
for the shifts. Set the time table on this screen. The default is
'0', no timetable with 24 hour shift assignments.

One Door / Two Doors – Applies to Wall Readers

An online wall reader controller can be programmed to control
two read heads. The two readers can control the same door
with relay #1, or they can control 2 separate doors by using
relays #1 and #2. Use this parameter to define if the controller
will energize only relay #1 or both relays. Both readers are
assigned with the same locking plan and other parameters.

Opening Delay – Applies to Wall Readers

Set the time that the relay is energized after a valid card is
presented.

Open To Checked Out Cards – Applies to Wall

Readers
Online wall readers get instant updates of checked out guests
and canceled master users. There are some cases when
checked out guests need to be granted access, such as exit
gates from parking garages.

Anti-Passback Function – Applies to

Wallreaders
Anti-passback means that a card can enter an opening only
once without being used to exit through the same opening. This
prevents a person from entering and then passing the card back
to be used by another person.
The Onity anti-passback feature can only be used with online
readers set to two door operation. Also, the anti-passback logic
applies to one controller only, meaning that if a card is used to
enter through controller A and then leaves through controller B,
the card will not be allowed through controller A again.
Note: For life safety reasons, cards are always allowed
through the exit reader.

Note: Don´t forget to Locking Plan – Applies to Wall Readers and

select the cards that Identifiers
may have access. In
HT24 DOS they where Only the cards declared in the locking plan of the controller will be
activated by default ! considered for access in the device. Required authorizations,
shifts, etc are only checked after the card has been found in the
access list of the device.

Auto-Logoff – Applies to Identifiers only

An Identifier can be set to operate only after a password has
been entered. (The password is assigned through the Peripheral

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •34
 Diagnosis screen when the unit is addressed) The device can
be programmed to return to the password screen after a period
of inactivity.

Cards
The cards menu is only available if chip cards are selected in
the Technologies Tab. This screen is used to define smart card
operating parameters for guest cards, master cards, and special
cards.

Card Technology

The card technology tab is used to select the type of card used
for guests, masters and special cards such as blocking and
programming cards. There are three tabs at the bottom of the
screen to make selections for each card type.
Any technologies selected on the Configuration screen
Technology tab are available on this screen. If you want the
software to ask which card technology you would like to use
each time you encode a card, select the last option 'Before
Encode'. The default type is the one selected in the drop down
list.
Also, each type of card can be programmed to recover
information from the locks. If the box on the right of the screen
is checked, the smart cards will recover the information.
However, you may be using smart cards for guests and you do
not wish to recover audits. In this case, do not check the box.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 35
 Card Configuration

The Card Configuration tab applies to ALL card types – guests,

masters, and special cards. This field sets the size of the file on
the card that is used to recover the information from the locks.
Once this file is created on a new card, the file size cannot be
changed, that is you cannot make a card recover more
information than is required at the first encoding of the card.
You can, however, establish a large file and instruct the card to
retrieve only a few audits. This, of course, wastes valuable
space on the card.

Infosmart File Size

The infosmart file size must be calculated depending on the card
capacity (in bytes).
Below there is a picture with the different type of information
stored in the smart card memory with the space occupied
(approximately).
The first 104 bytes are the size occupied by default; the different
records have a size of 16 bytes (approximately).

Ex. For a card of 32kbits

32kbits=4kbytes
4kbytes=4096bytes

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •36
 4096bytes-104bytes=3992bytes
3992bytes/16bytes per record ≈ 250 records

Flags

Flags are used in the software to configure or activate the

parameters of certain features in the system. The flags are
kept, in ASCII format, in a file called Flags.ht2 located in the …
HT28\Data\ folder. The following is a description of all system
flags and their parameters.

AUDITOR= x
x = number of days to keep audits
Example: AUDITOR=7
audits more than 1 week old will be deleted

AUTOBACKUP= x
x = path to backup directory
Example: AUTOBACKUP=C:\Onity\BACKUP\

BACKUPTIME= x
x = time (hour) of the backup in 24 hour format. There can be
several instances of this line.
Example: BACKUPTIME=2
BACKUPTIME=8
BACKUPTIME=14
BACKUPTIME=20

GROUPJUMP= x
x = the number of codes a group card will be ahead of the
current card code. The number must be between 1 and 250.
The default is one half of the guest code lookahead.

MASTERCOPY
Allows the hotel to encode multiple copies of master cards

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 37
 MICROS
Automatically places information on track 1 or 2 in the following
format:
ROOM NUMBER (not padded)
EXPIRATION DATE (YYYYMMDD)
This information can be used directly by the Micros POS system.

MULTIMASTER
Allows the hotel to switch the locks between 3 master keying
schemes, A, B, and C.

NOPADTRACK
Instructs HT24W / HT28 Smart not to pad tracks 1 & 2 with
insignificant characters after the encoded information. By
default, the software will fill the track.

NUMSPARE= x
Spare cards can be made in batches of identical cards so guests
can have more than one card. The number x can be from 1 to
9.
Example: NUMSPARES=3

PINPADSAFE, x
x = the number of hours a Safe Master card is valid. The Safe
Master card can be used in conjunction with the guest room key
to open PIN pad safes. The default is 3 hours.
Example: PINPADSAFE,1

PINPP
Requires the hotel to enter a PIN for the PP when it is loaded.

PMS
Enables PMS communication

PMSBUFFER
If an encoder is busy and a new task is requested, this option
activates a buffer so the tasks will be sent to the encoder after
the previous task is finished.
The maximum number of buffered messages is 4.
After the 4th message is buffered a OV (overflow) error
message will be sent to the PMS.
Note: Requires display encoder.

PMSFILE
Enables a record of all PMS transactions called AuditPMS.ht2

PPDAYS= x
x = the number of days the PP will retain its data. After this
period of time, the PP can not be used except to TEST.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •38
 READCARD
Allows HT20i encoders to read cards by pressing the READ
button This flag has no affect on HT22I terminals.

REPEAT
Instructs HT24W / HT28 Smart to automatically repeat PMS
commands if there is an encoding error.
Use this option when connected to a PMS that does not handle
error messages.
Note: Requires display encoder.

SEPARATOR= x
x = a number from 33 to 254 indicating the ASCII value of the
character that separates PMS fields. The default is x = 179.

TRACK1= x
x = 1: allows users to place any valid information on track 1 --
default = none
x = 2: allows users to place any valid information on track 1 --
default = pre-defined information
x = 3: allows pre-defined information only on track 1
Pre-defined information defined below:
ROOM NUMBER (padded with insignificant characters up to 7
characters)
AUTHORIZATIONS
EXPIRATION DATE (YYMMDDHH)
Note: The rest of the magnetic stripe is padded with
insignificant characters until the end.
Note: If the MICROS command is in the file, the pre-defined
information follows the Micros format.

TRACK2= x
x = 1: allows users to place any valid information on track 2 --
default = none
x = 2: allows users to place any valid information on track 2 --
default = pre-defined information
x = 3: allows pre-defined information only on track 2
Pre-defined information defined below:
ROOM NUMBER (padded with insignificant characters up to 7
characters)
AUTHORIZATIONS
EXPIRATION DATE (YYMMDDHH)
Note: The rest of the magnetic stripe is padded with
insignificant characters until the end.
Note: If the MICROS command is in the file, the pre-defined
information follows the Micros format.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 39
 USEIPCOM
Enables the distributed Htcom system allowing PMS or terminal
encoders to be connected to a workstation PC rather than the
server.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •40
PMS Interface
The Property Management System interface specification for
HT24W / HT28 Smart is the same as HT24DOS. The only
additional feature offered by HT24W / HT28 Smart is the ability
to interface over Ethernet rather than an RS232 serial
connection. HT24W / HT28 Smart uses standard TCP/IP
communication over the Ethernet.
When connecting over Ethernet, the packets do not change.
They all begin with STX and end with ETX and an LRC. These
control characters are not truly necessary with TCP/IP, all of the
data integrity checking is built in. But to remain consistent, the
data packets remain the same.

TCP/IP
TCP/IP is a standard Ethernet packet transfer protocol. Like
RS232 serial communications, TCP/IP uses ports. However, for
TCP/IP, ports are simply addresses identifying the sender and
the receiver of the data packets.
Some ports are reserved and should not be used. For example,
port 80 is reserved for FTP transfers. In general, any port
greater than 6000 should be available. HT24W / HT28 Smart
defaults to port 6669. This is the port the software is 'listening'
on. The PMS must know this port number in order to connect.

HTCOM Device Communication

Onity devices, such as encoders, online wall readers and
revalidators, are connected to the PC running the Onity software
through a 2-wire network called HTCOM. This unique
communications network is the backbone of many Onity
installations.
HTCOM operates at 9600 baud and is a 2-wire multi-drop RS485
using 9 bit data packets. The distance limitation of this daisy-
chained network is 1500 meters or approximately 4500 feet.
The end of the network should be terminated with a terminating
resistor to prevent data echoes that disrupt communications.
The Communications Distributor section of this manual contains
some other useful information about HTCOM.

IPCOM Device Communication

In previous systems, including HT28 version 1, all peripheral
devices connect to a single PC through the HTCOM network.
Workstation PCs allowed a connection to only one local encoder.
A new feature is included in the HT24W / HT28 Smart version 2
software called IPCOM. This system allows multiple Onity PCs to
have independent HTCOM networks with multiple peripherals.
These peripherals can be PMS encoders, terminal encoders, on-
line wall readers or revalidators.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 41
 All peripherals must be declared in the MODIfication screens,
and each device is assigned a unique number. From each
workstation a high level operator can claim and address any
peripheral for that local HTCOM network. There is a new button
in the peripheral diagnostics screen called Make it Local that is
used to claim the peripheral.
There is no difference in the way terminals or PMS encoders
operate if they are on the HTCOM network of a server or a
workstation. The software takes care of all of the message
routing 'behind the scenes.'

Software Tools
When HT24W / HT28 Smart is properly installed, TOOLS.EXE is
also installed. Tools is used to diagnose and repair problems
with locking plan databases.

Data Menu – Restore Tables

This menu option will check every database in the system for
errors. If errors are found you will be asked if they should be
repaired. This option checks tables independently for structural
type file errors.

Data Menu – Test Database Integrity

Since the HT24W / HT28 Smart database is relational, tables
interact with each other. This menu option tests the data in the
tables to see that it corresponds properly with the other tables.

Data Menu – Pack Tables

Over time, database tables can have many holes where data
has been deleted. Although these holes do not contain useful
data, they do take up space. Packing the tables restructures

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •42
 the files so that they contain only the useful data. This frees up
memory that was being used by the 'holes'.

Restore Codes
This option will recover the current codes from a motorized
encoder. This may be useful if you need to rebuild the system
after a catastrophic failure of the main Onity server and there is
no recent backup of the files. This step is also done
automatically when recovering from a backup.

Restore Backup
If the server suffers a catastrophic failure of the hard drive or
the data, the system can be recovered from a backup copy of
the files. Tools will check the integrity of the backup and rebuild
the files. Some data may be lost – depending on what has
happened since the last backup was made.

Load HT22
Tools can load hex files into an HT22I encoder. This is much
faster than loading with the DOS HT21.exe software. The HT22
must be connected to the same serial port that the HTCOM
network is on using a 9 pin null modem cable. This is the same
cable used to connect the PC and the Windows Communications
Distributor.

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical Information

• 43
Parameters for Special Configurations
The EXE file of the HT24W / HT28 Smart system, HT28.EXE, can
be modified with special parameters for special uses of the
program.

/D directory name
This parameter addresses the path to the database of the
selected folder. If ommited, the database will consider the data
local directory in the same directory where the HT28.EXE is.

/Snumber
This parameter defines a PC in a network. If ommited, this PC
will be considered as PC station number 1 (main computer).
Obviously in an HT28 network only one PC can be ommmited.

/NOVERIFY
It makes the PC to do not check the database integrity. This way
the loading is faster. It is not recommended to use this
parameter eventhough it can be usefull in cases as demos or in
slave PCs where the master has already checked the database
intergrity.

/REVALIDATOR
This parameter will make the PC to behave exclusively as a
revalidator. In this case the parameter /S will be requiered.

/NOREVAL
This parameter disables the posibility of revalidating cards from
the PC; revalidation can be performed from the other
revalidators of the installation (if there are any).

Note: It is very Example of a network with 3 PCs (PC1 with the name MASTER is the
important for all server):
networked computers
PC1: C:\Onity\HT28\HT28.EXE /D \\MASTER\DATA /NOREVAL
to have the same /D
path. PC2: C:\Onity\HT28\HT28.EXE /D \\MASTER\DATA /S2
PC3: C:\Onity\HT28\HT28.EXE /D \\MASTER\DATA /S3 /REVALIDATOR

HT24W / HT28 Smart Technical

Information •44