Maintain Security with Access Control Systems
Access control systems are being revolutionized as engineers constantly seek new ways to improve building security. First, there were locks and keys. Later, monitored alarm systems were the standard and allowed business owners to limit access by unauthorized persons to properties and secured assets. All of these systems were designed to increase security. Now, as technology has improved, access cards, door entry systems, and other access control systems are a staple for office and building security.
Card Access Control Systems: The Next Frontier in Security
Card Access Control Systems, or ID card entry systems, are the next technological frontier and the culmination of locked, limited physical access, electronic monitoring, and the flexibility of programmable advanced solutions.
What are Card Access Control Systems?
How Do I Know If Need a Security Access Control System?
What are the Benefits of Card Access Systems?
Access card control minimizes human error and increases both actual and perceived security. You can use it in tandem with existing door entry systems and monitoring systems. Card access control systems can also streamline processes and improve efficiency by creating a security standard to which all personnel must adhere. This takes away any inconsistencies about access permissions and who has physical access to different areas of the building.
Eliminate Lost Or Forgotten Passwords
Reduce the Risk of Stolen Keys with an Access Control System
Access cards can also eliminate the potential for stolen keys. Keys can be lost and copied, increasing the risk of loss, damage, and break-ins. This leaves business owners with no choice but to purchase expensive replacement locks and keys. Access cards, on the other hand, can be activated and deactivated quickly, meaning that lost and stolen cards run no risk of security breaches.
Key Card Access Systems Help Improve Monitoring
Key card access systems can improve monitoring by giving you the ability to track and store time of entry and card user information. With traditional keys, it’s difficult to monitor when a key is used and impossible to know who the keyholder is. With access cards and door entry systems, you can monitor who has entered your building at any given time. This is especially helpful when and if criminal activity takes place. Additionally, you can monitor when and how employees and visitors enter your building with these access control systems.
Flexible, Affordable Access Control Card Solutions
Access control systems include the software to run the system, door controllers, card reader, and access cards. These card systems are not just limited to doors, however; they can be used in conjunction with turnstiles, gates, and other ingress/egress fixtures. These access card control systems are most effective and most often used as one aspect of an integrated, monitored security system, including video surveillance, closed circuit cameras, and other devices.
Types of Access Control Systems for Your Business
One Door Stand-Alone Access Control System
This is usually a single door control where the cards are used the same way as a key. All of the cards entered into the reader will function 24/7. These systems usually do not provide any type of report.
2 – 4 Door Entry Level Systems
This type has either a 2-door or 4-door access control panel and some may also be expanded to additional doors. Most of these systems connect to a PC or laptop for programming and then are disconnected. Usually, they do allow for various access levels to program when cards are available for use.
Mid to Large Enterprise Systems
This larger scale system is probably the most common access control system. The number of doors controlled is usually a multiple of 4 and they can be expanded to handle hundreds of doors, monitor alarms, and are capable of communications via a network or the internet to remote sites just about anywhere. In the case of larger systems, it is common to have a guard staff monitoring alarm points and card transactions. These systems can even be interfaced with video camera systems and in some cases the building automation systems. Some systems can pass different types of information back and forth as needed. Depending on the system software, it may also be interfaced with the system in HR for single point enrollment.