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OPEX vs CAPEX: Why DW Spectrum Enterprise Is the Key to Dealer RMR Growth

Jul 22, 2025 | Ip Video

OPEX vs CAPEX model for DW Spectrum Enterprise

Cut the Core Drilling: SDC WPT Wireless Power Transfer Device Makes Retrofits Easy

Messing with door cores is one of the biggest headaches for security dealers retrofitting electrified hardware—especially when dealing with wood or fire-rated doors. Fortunately, the SDC WPT Wireless Power Transfer Device solves that problem by delivering power and data across the door gap without any moving parts, wires, or core drilling.

Ideal for both retrofit and new construction, this RF-powered solution simplifies installations, minimizes vandal-prone wiring, and keeps projects on schedule. Whether you’re updating an older access control system or installing electric locks on a wood or steel door, the SDC WPT gives you the power—literally—to get the job done cleanly and compliantly.

Key Product Features

  • Wireless RF power transfer—no door core drilling required
  • Compatible with steel and wood doors
  • Transfers both energy and data (REX, DPS, latch status)
  • Visual LED status indicator
  • Field-selectable dual voltage output (12VDC or 24VDC)
  • Up to 1/4” (7mm) door gap tolerance
  • Flexible mounting on latch, hinge, or top frame
  • No moving parts or exposed wires—zero wear points
  • Adjustable unlock trigger (1–90 seconds)
  • Includes fixed 4-second unlock trigger for standard REX

Use Cases & Dealer Benefits

The WPT is a retrofit-friendly, code-compliant solution designed for:

  • Failsecure Electrified Locks and Latches: Power mortise, cylindrical, or rim locks without wiring hassles.
  • High-Traffic Doors: Reduce wear and tear from wire loops and moving parts.
  • Historic and Finished Doors: Maintain door aesthetics without compromising functionality.
  • Healthcare and Schools: Perfect for touchless entry installations using wave-to-open sensors.
  • Compliance Upgrades: Ideal for projects needing to meet UL fire and burglary ratings.

Why Dealers Love It:

  • No Core Drilling = Faster Installs: Save labor and avoid damaging fire-rated or wood doors.
  • Reduced Callbacks: No wires to break or degrade over time.
  • More Tolerant Alignment: Easier to install than inductive wireless devices.
  • Upsell Opportunity: Bundle with electrified locksets, exit devices, and wave-to-open switches.
  • Profitable Retrofits: Unlock more margin on existing door openings where wiring is difficult.

Technical Summary

  • Power Input (Frame Side): 600 mA @ 24 VDC
  • Power Output (Door Side):
    • 600 mA @ 12 VDC
    • 300 mA @ 24 VDC
  • Door Gap Tolerance: Up to 1/4″ (7mm)
  • Alignment Tolerance: Horizontal & vertical < 5/64” (2mm)
  • Dry Inputs:
    • (1) 4-second fixed unlock trigger
    • (1) 1–90 second adjustable unlock timer
  • Dry Outputs (Frame Side):
    • (2) SPDT, 1A @ 30 VDC resistive
    • (2) SPST-NO, 100 mA @ 60 VDC resistive
  • Environmental Rating: -4°F to 140°F
  • Weight: 1 lb
  • Certifications:
    • UL 10C Positive Pressure Fire Tests
    • UL 1034 Burglary-Resistant Locking Mechanisms

Note: For use with failsecure (power-to-unlock) locks only. Not compatible with failsafe or continuously dogged locks.

How the SDC WPT Works

Unlike inductive systems that require precise coil alignment, the WPT uses RF energy, which:

  • Transmits power as radio waves across the door gap.
  • Converts the RF signal into usable DC voltage via an internal receiver.
  • Transfers data (REX, DPS, latch status) along with power.
  • Is less sensitive to vertical and horizontal misalignment than coil-based systems.

This makes the WPT more installer-friendly and reliable in real-world deployments—especially in field conditions where perfect alignment isn’t always possible.

Accessory Highlight: WPT Drill Jig

For installers working with solid or particle-filled wood doors, SDC offers a WPT Drill Jig Assembly (part #SDC-WPT), available from JustDoorToolz. This makes prep quick, clean, and precise—ensuring a secure, code-compliant fit for every install.

Partner with SESP for Your SDC Installations
Southeast Security Products represents SDC and other best-in-class manufacturers across the Southeast U.S., offering hands-on support, product expertise, and dealer-focused programs to help you grow your business. Whether you’re building your first smart home package, upgrading to next-gen connectivity, or integrating high-performance technology into a larger security system, we can help you select the right solutions to power your installations. Contact us today for pricing, training, or to request a demo of the WPT Wireless Power Transfer Device.

Visit sesproducts.com or reach out to learn more about how we can support your next project.

OPEX vs CAPEX isn’t just a budgeting distinction—it’s a strategic decision that impacts how security dealers and MSPs generate long-term revenue and retain customers. And in today’s competitive market, DW Spectrum Enterprise gives you the edge with a model built specifically for recurring monthly revenue (RMR).

While traditional CAPEX models like DW Spectrum Professional still serve many applications, forward-thinking integrators are rapidly shifting to the OPEX-driven Enterprise model to future-proof their business and unlock scalable growth.

OPEX vs CAPEX: The Recurring Revenue Model Dealers Need

In today’s competitive market, dealers need to move beyond one-time hardware sales. The OPEX model empowers you to generate ongoing revenue through services—something CAPEX simply can’t offer.

OPEX (Operating Expenditure) refers to monthly or annual recurring costs associated with services, which is exactly how DW Spectrum Enterprise is designed to function:

  • Monthly VMS licensing

  • Remote system health monitoring

  • Cloud access and DW Cloud™ management

  • Bundled managed services (cameras, updates, storage)

By embracing OPEX vs CAPEX, dealers are transitioning from transactional sales to relationship-based service contracts that deliver predictable, recurring revenue.

CAPEX: The Traditional Model Still Has Its Place

CAPEX (Capital Expenditure) refers to large, upfront investments. This model defines DW Spectrum Professional:

  • Dealers sell perpetual licenses with one-time fees

  • Customers purchase their own NVRs, storage, and servers

  • Software is owned outright, with no ongoing licensing

  • Revenue is collected once, and post-install support is limited

While certain verticals like education or municipal clients may still prefer CAPEX models, the RMR opportunity is minimal. There’s no built-in incentive to return—no service plan, no renewal, no revenue growth.

OPEX vs CAPEX: Why DW Spectrum Enterprise Wins for Growth

DW Spectrum Enterprise was built from the ground up to support the OPEX model. It empowers you to:

  • Sell VMS licensing as a subscription

  • Offer hybrid-cloud storage and management

  • Provide proactive support and remote diagnostics

  • Add services like DW Cloud access, device monitoring, and more

When you lead with OPEX vs CAPEX, you’re not just selling a product—you’re delivering an ongoing service. This creates opportunities to increase margin, grow accounts, and improve customer retention.

Examples: How Dealers Are Monetizing DW Spectrum Enterprise

What You Can Offer with the OPEX Model

By selling DW Spectrum Enterprise as a service, you unlock multiple streams of monthly income:

  • Software licensing (camera or server-based)

  • Remote system management

  • Camera uptime and firmware monitoring

  • Cloud storage or redundancy solutions

  • Cybersecurity monitoring and alerts

  • Support contracts and service visits

And because DW Spectrum Enterprise supports open architecture and flexible licensing, you can scale these offerings across any vertical, from small retail shops to enterprise campuses.

Technical Flexibility Built for Service Providers

DW Spectrum Enterprise gives dealers and MSPs the tools needed to support OPEX-based service models:

  • DW Cloud: Remote access and management from anywhere

  • No forced maintenance fees — You build and control your own support plan and pricing

  • Built-in tools for proactive system health diagnostics

  • Multi-site and multi-user support ideal for MSP deployments

  • Third-party camera compatibility (ONVIF conformant)

Pair this with the Enterprise platform’s support for Windows, Linux, and Ubuntu—plus compatibility with thousands of ONVIF cameras—and you have a platform that fits almost any application or vertical.

Final Word on OPEX vs CAPEX: Shift Your Business Toward Recurring Revenue

The most successful dealers and MSPs today are moving from CAPEX installs to OPEX-driven managed services. With DW Spectrum Enterprise, you get the tools, flexibility, and support to build your own recurring revenue engine—on your terms.

Stop watching competitors take the RMR. You already have the customer relationships. Now use DW Spectrum Enterprise to build the services that keep them coming back.

Partner with SESP for Your DW Spectrum Enterprise Applications

Southeast Security Products represents Digital Watchdog and other best-in-class manufacturers across the Southeast U.S., offering hands-on support, product expertise, and dealer-focused programs to help you grow your business. Whether you’re building your first smart home package, upgrading to next-gen connectivity, or integrating high-performance technology into a larger security system, we can help you select the right solutions to power your installations. Contact us today for pricing, training, or to request a demo of the DW Spectrum Enterprise.

Visit sesproducts.com or reach out to learn more about how we can support your next project.

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