What is an Access Control System?
Access Control is an electronic security system that allows or restricts access to certain spaces. Not only does it protect the building from unwanted visitors, but it also ensures the safety of property and people
An access control system provides control of entry (or exit) through designated doors via a control panel and some form of electrical locking device.
The access control system can be as simple or as complicated as you wish, but in any case, the solution will always ensure the easy passage of authorized persons around the building.
Door entry or access control?
Door entry is commonly associated with a single door or gate, while access control is more appropriate for multiple doors or entry points.
Access control can also include a number of other functions that enhance other areas of the business.
Access Control / Door Entry Technology
There are a number of ways that a permitted user can open a door that is fitted with a system.
PIN Code Entry
The most common unit is the keypad system. This includes a control unit with a row of numbered buttons or a touchpad that is connected to the lock release mechanism via a control unit located at the entrance.
Mag-stripe (also called Swipe Card) Readers
Each entry point has a card reader and the user swipes an encoded card similar to a credit card to gain entry.
This technology is widely used and there are many options from manufacturers.
Proximity Readers
Rather than swiping the card or tag, it is simply presented to a reader, who typically will see the card at a distance of about 100 mm. This is a very fast and reliable, non-contact, method of entry.
Long Range Readers
Long-range proximity readers (of approximately a meter or so) automatically unlock or open a door when it detects the card.
This is particularly suitable for compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) as no action is required by the card bearer.
Smart-card Readers
For systems that use cards or tags, these cards can also carry additional information which can be used for other building services – – for example, time and attendance functions, integration with payroll systems, car park management and even vending machine applications.
Biometric Readers
A Biometric Reader system uses unique human characteristics – such as fingerprints or a retina scan – to clearly identify those who are permitted access.
Since there are no cards or tags to steal, lose or misuse, this type of system greatly increases the level of security.
What about Visitors?
You will want to welcome most of those who visit your premises, so it must be easy for them to let you know they are there.
The three most common means of attracting attention are:
• A simple doorbell system that alerts your staff to the fact that there is someone waiting outside.
• An audio intercom panel that allows the visitor to have a direct conversation with a member of your staff and, if appropriate, the door can be remotely released.
• An audio intercom panel with a camera facility that allows your staff to see who wants to enter the building before permitting access.
Once access has been permitted, the visitor can either be escorted around or issued a card or pin # for the duration of their visit.
Things to Consider
When planning an access control system, you should consider the following:
• How many entry/exit points
• Where are these located>
• Level of security desired
• The movement of staff around the building
• Method of operation
• Future growth of building
• Turnover of employees
• Disability access
• Interface with other systems – for example, the fire alarm
GREAT
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