Access Control

What is Access Control? (concise version)

There are many types of access control, ranging from an open door to very elaborate bio-metric control devices.

1. Mechanical key-operated lock hardware is the most common access control, if you have a key you can gain access, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. There is no capability for an audit trail, you cannot track who accessed on opening or when. This would be an example of "dumb" access control. If the key is lost or duplicated you no longer have access control.
   
   
2. From there you could go to a full time guard, this would also be access control, you could have all of the benefits of an electronic access control system.
• Accountability - Audit trails
• Convenience - no need to rekey
• Security - no enters without permission
• Control of time and people who can access - who can enter and when, commonly called time zone capability.
• Time and Attendance - no need for the old time clock.
This solution would be very expensive.


3. Stand alone battery powered digital locks are the next step up, these locks have and are evolving at a very rapid pace, they have many useful features, and are becoming very popular. The latest stand alone fingerprint lock we sell now has up to 30 users and retails for about $600 fitted.



4. Combination Transponder keys are the latest delelopment for the humble pin tumbler lock which allow a keyholder access to non critical doors using the standard mechanical function and also access to the other areas based upon the "Transponder " head of the key.



5. Electronic keys are another new development which can give the benefits of a high level access control system to a gate padlock, filing cabinet lock or cam lock (such as a vending machine).



6. Some benefits of a stand alone system are:
   • No hardwiring, which can significantly reduce cost
   • Range from single to multiple user, some allow groups and management levels.
   • Some can "learn" existing controls.
   • Audit trails can be downloaded via a PDA etc.
   • The ability to easily move or reuse locks and doors
   
   
   
7. The range of fully integrated access control systems is so broad, that we really can't discuss them all, in any detail. Listed below are some of the features these systems offer.
   • Can integrate with alarm systems, fire alarm systems and CCTV systems.
   • Can be remotely controlled - i.e. via modem and computer.
   • If a card or control is lost - no need to "rekey", you just delete the lost control and issue a new one.
   • Some systems can be managed by the users I T department etc.
   
   
   
8. The type of system that will be right for your needs will depend on many factors, including;
   
   • Fire and Building codes
   • Inspection by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
   • Can wires be run.
   • Does your system need to integrate with your alarm or fire system.
   • How many openings, or buildings are involved
   • How many users.
   • Types of controls
   • What type of egress control can be used
   
   
   
9. We can help with these decisions, call us for a quotation on your access control system.

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