Powering 2 12V Electromagnets

Ok, first, here is an idea if you just wish for something ready-made for this.

http://goo.gl/BUOHls

Here is an Arduino option also. Unlock Your Front Door Without Keys Using This DIY Keyfob Entry System « Hacks, Mods & Circuitry

To answer your question for the  solenoid, it is a push solenoid, that is when you energized it is designed to extend out.

Then when you power it down, it will retract. I myself would not like it to be set up so you would need it to have its primary position as "out".

In other words, I would not have it powered 90% of the time than powered down for a minute, then powered up.

Personally, I would have it set up mechanically so it would be off most of the time, then when I need to access "the door" it will power on, let me in, then back off again.

On a larger scale, what are you using to drive this set up as far as a Microcontroller, or, and Arduino board, or do you have something already in place in mind?

In my thinking, If I wanted to automate a front door, with a latch, and build everything myself. This is what I would do.

Here is whatI would do.

https://sway.com/EM98djLYBMpg0167

Ok, first, here is an idea if you just wish for something ready-made for this.

http://goo.gl/BUOHls

Here is an Arduino option also. Unlock Your Front Door Without Keys Using This DIY Keyfob Entry System « Hacks, Mods & Circuitry

To answer your question for the  solenoid, it is a push solenoid, that is when you energized it is designed to extend out.

Then when you power it down, it will retract. I myself would not like it to be set up so you would need it to have its primary position as "out".

In other words, I would not have it powered 90% of the time than powered down for a minute, then powered up.

Personally, I would have it set up mechanically so it would be off most of the time, then when I need to access "the door" it will power on, let me in, then back off again.

On a larger scale, what are you using to drive this set up as far as a Microcontroller, or, and Arduino board, or do you have something already in place in mind?

In my thinking, If I wanted to automate a front door, with a latch, and build everything myself. This is what I would do.

Here is whatI would do.

https://sway.com/EM98djLYBMpg0167

the lock is for my bedroom door, it is mostly for when people knock, instead of getting up and opening it, i can just unlock it from my desk,  I will use some sort of microcontroller, probably the arduino pro mini, then send a signal via an rf transmitter and receiver to a mosfet to let power go through, though I am very new to mosfets, transistors, etc. so i am not sure what the best way to switch on and of the power would be

You should never have an automatic lock on your bedroom door (especially if under 90 years old) for the following reasons:

1) It puts off visitors

2) In case of fire you will not be rescued

3) Everyone will think you are up to something they should snoop on

MK

Gabriel's question and the solutions that I have seen are typical of a great discussion, because the search for the solution is uncovering more requirements.  This is not just good engineering, but great engineering.

Something to recognize with the solenoid solution, is the noise factor. Most solenoids in the configuration described (normal withdrawn) when in an activated state, are constantly fighting with the tension spring. Fluctuations in power, however minimal, cause the lug (the metal bar) to vibrate creating a buzzing. The limitation of this behavior is reduced as the price of the solenoid goes up.  The described environment (friends talking) leads me to believe that a constant buzz in the background is not desired, and the budget for the solution does not seem to be realistic for elimination of the distraction. I actually like Michael's statement, suggesting, examining the problem again to see if there is an alternative solution to a lock on the door.

Here's wishing you luck with your quest,

Jack