The Basics
What is access control?
Thankfully, it’s all in the name. Access control or a secure door entry system keeps a locked door locked until the master user allows access, usually with the press of a button or command from inside a property, access can also be granted with electronically coded cards or FOBS, programmed to be recognised by the system and allow users to come and go freely.
Access control allows the likes of home owners to keep out unwanted guests or refuse access to solicitors, as well as provide a visual deterrent to criminals and opportunistic thieves.
Electronic access is widely used in a large number of businesses as well as specific use places like hotels, where single or temporary access is granted to individuals for short periods of time.
So how does it work?
A basics of a standard system is made up of a handset, control panel and a power supply. A bell is fitted to the exterior panel with a built in microphone and the receiver and power supply inside. A simple walkie-talkie like operation starts communication between the two devices with the interior buzzer acting as a release for the locking mechanism, allowing access.
Are there benefits over a common lock and key?
The lock and key will never die out, but there are many benefits to have a secure door entry in place or combined with them.
Firstly, with a lock and key, only a keyholder may grant access, opposed to a door entry system, anyone on the inside can unlock the door. Mechanical locks and keys do not limit the key holder to specific times or dates.
Mechanical locks and keys also don’t provide records of the keys used on any specific door and the keys can be easily copied or transferred to an unauthorized person. When a mechanical key is lost or the key holder is no longer authorized to use the protected area, the locks must be re-keyed to maintain business security.
Keeping track of these is much easier than a copied traditional key and far easier to change the access codes on the lock than replace one entirely.
Electronic door access control uses computers to solve the limitations of mechanical locks and keys. A wide range of methods can be used to replace mechanical keys.
Secure Door Access
A remote telemetry unit at an entrance grants access based on credentials shown, such as a password entered on a keypad or a smart card with a proximity sensor. The decision can be made locally by the door unit, remotely by a central management system or cooperatively by sharing login profiles and access requests.
When access is granted, the door is unlocked for a set time and the event is logged. When access is refused, the door remains locked and the attempted access is recorded. The system will also monitor the door and alarm if the door is forced open or held open too long after being unlocked.
These systems and logs can be priceless when reviewing potential threats or break ins.
A Natural Deterrent
It’s a well known fact that the majority of break ins and burglaries come from opportunistic thieves, taking advantage of a situation or unguarded property and a large majority simply walking striaght through the front door. Having a reliable, even simple system in place is the first step toward a huge increase in your defences.
For more information on our secure door entry systems and how we can help you, give us a call on 0141 950 9000 today, or take a look at our contacts page for more ways to get in touch.