Buying for a larger project? Order 5 or more BAC V controllers together to save 5% and receive free shipping. The discount is applied automatically at checkout.
Puzzles, props and room control
The BAC V (FX451) is an Ethernet-connected controller for escape room puzzles and props. Connect buttons, switches and sensors, then use BAM software to configure how the controller responds. Run a puzzle locally, or connect your props to room control software for monitoring and control.
- 8 inputs, 6 switched outputs and 2 relays for connecting puzzle hardware.
- Configurable puzzle logic and events for input patterns, sequences, resets and effects.
- Live monitoring and manual control over a wired Ethernet network.
- Removable terminal connectors for wiring and servicing installed props.
- Optional expansion for compatible RFID readers, magnetic sensors, additional I/O, addressable LEDs and external media players.
Tell us what you want the puzzle to do. We can help you choose the controller, sensors, power supply and firmware for your build. You do not need a finished plan to start the conversation - we love to help even if you're early in the process.
Talk to us about your projectIndustrial control hardware
The BAC is built from automotive and industrial-grade componets and combines load switching, input protection, networking and field wiring connectors on one board. If you are moving a puzzle from an Arduino prototype into an installed prop, many of the supporting circuits and connections you would otherwise need to add are built right in to the BAC.
- onsemi NCV7726 output driver. Designed for automotive and industrial applications, this dedicated driver switches the BAC’s six outputs and supports configurable high-side and low-side operation. It includes overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, and undervoltage and overvoltage lockout. The BAC firmware also monitors output overcurrent faults.
- Conditioned and protected inputs. Inputs 0–3 offer optical isolation with the appropriate jumper configuration, and the board includes transient and ESD protection components.
- Dedicated networking and switching components. A dedicated coprocessor handles Ethernet connectivity, and two name-brand Panasonic SPDT relays provide separate switching contacts.
- Serviceable connections. Removable terminal connectors let you disconnect the controller without undoing each wire.
These features support practical prop installations within the electrical limits below. Correct wiring, load selection and external suppression are still required.
Configure your puzzle in BAM
BAM 2.0 is the configuration application for Windows and macOS. Use its graphical interface to choose settings, assign inputs and outputs, and set actions for events such as a button press, puzzle solve or reset. Supported games and event actions can be configured without writing code; wiring and setup are still required.
Once configured, local puzzle logic and events run on the BAC without keeping BAM open. Functions that depend on room control software or networked equipment still need those systems running.
Available puzzle types
- Simple Match: Solve when the selected inputs match the required states.
- Input Sequence: Detect buttons or other inputs activated in the correct order.
- Simon Says: Show a sequence for players to repeat using buttons and indicators.
- Patch Cable: Detect cables connected to the correct sockets.
- Combination Lock: Create a rotary combination puzzle with compatible magnetic sensing hardware.
- RFID and RFID Advanced: Recognize tag placements or sequences using our FX205 RFID readers.
- Knock-Knock: Recognize a learned knocking pattern using an FX12 knock sensor and piezo pickup.
- Valve and Rotational Array: Check knob or valve positions using FX51-SEN magnet sensors and suitable magnets.
- Magnet sensing: Detect learned magnetic fields using FX51-SEN sensors.
- Keypad: Recognize entered codes using a keypad, FX18 and FX45.
Choose the matching firmware. Standard firmware includes Simple Match and Patch Cable; other games can be loaded via a Micro USB cable through BAM. A BAC runs one selected game type at a time, while available I/O can also be used for independent events via the always-active Room Controller mode.
Puzzle hardware, sensors, readers, displays, wiring and expansion boards are sold separately. Check the game’s hardware requirements before ordering.
Connect to room control software
Use Ethernet to monitor inputs and puzzle status, operate outputs and relays, or send supported solve and reset commands. MQTT firmware supports integration with systems such as Mythric Mystery Master (M3) and Node-RED. ERM/HTTP firmware is also available for supported game builds.
Integration requires configuration in both systems and the appropriate BAC firmware. Third-party software is supplied separately. Use the BAC on a trusted local control network; do not expose it directly to the internet.
Expansion, lighting and media
The optional FX45 Connectivity Kit provides connections for supported accessories:
- RFID and magnetic sensors: Connect FX205 RFID readers and FX51-SEN magnet sensors for tag, placement and rotary puzzles.
- Additional I/O: The FX60 adds 8 inputs, 8 outputs and 2 relays. The FX18 provides 5V I/O for applications such as switches and keypads.
- Addressable LEDs: A suitable FX45 version, such as the FX45-MAX, provides connections for supported WS2812/NeoPixel LEDs. Use the correct LED voltage and a power supply sized for the LEDs.
- External media: Control a MedeaWiz Sprite through the FX45 serial connection to trigger audio or video playback.
Some combinations of accessories are limited by shared connections and the installed firmware. Send us your planned setup and we can help you check compatibility before you order.
Audio options
The BAC V does not include an audio player, amplifier or speaker. For audio now, use your room control software or an external player such as the Sprite, with powered speakers or an appropriate amplifier and speakers.
Upcoming audio expansion module: Estimated availability is December 2026. The module is still in development and is not currently shipping.
Power and technical details
We recommend operating the BAC V at 12V DC. This matches many of our accessories and common escape room props. A quality regulated 12V, 2A power supply from a trusted brand like Mean Well suits many small setups; size the supply for the controller and every load it powers. Larger installations may need a higher-capacity or separate supply.
The BAC accepts 12–24V DC, but use 24V only when all connected devices and wiring are suitable for it. A power supply is required and sold separately.
| Power | 12V DC recommended. Accepts 12–24V DC. Use a supply rated for at least 1A, with sufficient additional capacity for connected loads; 2A is recommended for many small setups. Power supply sold separately. |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 8 digital inputs. Inputs 0–3 have jumper-selectable optical isolation. Inputs 4–7 also support configurable analog threshold detection. Input groups and wiring modes have different electrical requirements; follow the wiring guide. |
| Switched outputs | 6 outputs with configurable low-side and high-side switching. Maximum 500mA per output and 2.5A combined. Check load startup current as well as normal running current. |
| Relays | 2 Panasonic SPDT / Form C relays with common, normally open and normally closed contacts. DC only: 48V maximum and 5A maximum per relay. These are separate limits; allowable current depends on voltage and load type. See the relay guidance below. |
| Network | 10/100 Ethernet. |
| Expansion | Expansion connector for the optional FX45 kit and supported accessories. |
| Mounting | Wall-mountable enclosure. Optional DIN rail adapter; contact us for details. |
| Case dimensions | Approximately 153.5 × 101.5 × 38.5mm (L × W × H). Allow additional space for connectors and wiring. |
Relays, loads and wall power
Do not connect AC or wall power to the BAC, including its relay terminals. For plug-in AC equipment, use an enclosed DigitalLoggers IoT Relay or equivalent appropriately rated module. The BAC controls the module’s low-voltage input; the module switches wall power in its own enclosure.
The 48V DC and 5A relay limits are absolute maximums; higher-voltage or inductive loads may require further derating. Check the contact rating for your actual load, including starting current, and contact us if you need help selecting the interface. These limits are for the dry relay contacts only.
Check input compatibility, output mode and load ratings before applying power. Locks, solenoids and other inductive loads need suitable suppression. Use an appropriately rated external driver or switching device when a load exceeds the BAC’s limits.
Door locks and life safety
The BAC is an entertainment controller. It is not a life safety device. Emergency egress must never depend on the BAC, BAM, game logic, network connectivity or an operator’s software command.
All BAC-controlled access doors must have a clearly identified, readily accessible, mechanically operated emergency release button or switch, hardwired in series with the lock’s power circuit. Operating this release must directly interrupt lock power and allow exit independently of the BAC, its relays and all software. A button connected only to a BAC input does not satisfy this requirement. We often suggest egress buttons from Seco-Larm for this purpose.
Use locking hardware that releases on loss of lock power, and provide any required fire-alarm and emergency-system releases independently of the BAC. The installer and operator are responsible for ensuring the complete installation complies with applicable building, fire, accessibility and egress requirements, including any approvals required by the local authority having jurisdiction. Installing a BAC or an override button alone does not establish compliance.
Manuals and downloads
Let’s talk about your build
Whether you are planning your first puzzle, adding a prop to an existing room or working through a wiring problem, we welcome the conversation. Tell us what players should do and what should happen next. A sketch, parts list or a few photos can help us point you in the right direction!