SEARCHING FOR AN ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

An Access Control System is a security system designed to manage and control entry into and throughout the facility. These systems control who can enter, when they can enter, and where they can enter based on an authorized credential or biometric (hand, finger, eye, etc.). These systems are designed to allow authorized personnel access to the critical areas of your facility while restricting these areas from unauthorized personnel.  

The door controller is the control panel / device that is located at the site that connects to the card readers, electronic locks, door contacts, request to exits, and local sounders to communicate with the software. These controllers are specific to the manufacturer. These door controllers are designed to control from one to several doors. Some door controllers only control 1, 2, 3, or 4 doors; while others are designed to control 4, 8, 10, 12, 14 doors. Almost all door controllers are designed to retain the programming information and a limited amount of event history information when the controller not connected to the software.

Mobile Credentials – Mobile credentials are one of the most recent and secure credentials available. The credential is installed on your smart phone and read at the door by the mobile enable reader. These readers read the secure BLE or NFC data from the phone.  

The access control systems allow for the monitoring of the door through the system. The door can be monitored for door forced open conditions and door held open conditions. The door forced open condition occurs when the door is opened without the use of an authorized credential. Door prop open condition exists when door is left in the open position for an extended period time after a valid credential has been used to pass through the door. Alarms can be configured to trigger on the software and sound locally.  

The doors being controlled by the access control system must be electronically controlled so they can be electronically locked and unlocked. The type of hardware being utilized is dependent on the door and the existing hardware in placed. All doors can be electronically controlled some are easier and more cost effective than other doors.

Having reviewed and installed numerous access control systems over the years I can tell you not all access control systems are equal. The more cost effective systems lack some of the key software features and handle door alarms and notifications much more differently than the more sophisticated systems. The more advanced systems allow for unique integrations of the video surveillance system, photo ID systems, and intrusion alarm systems. That is why you need to partner with a security system integrator who can help identify the best system for your application and your future and who can define for you the advantages and disadvantages for each system.

The cost of the system can vary greatly based on the access control system being deployed. This cost estimate includes the software, door controller, reader, door contact, request to exit, door hardware, cabling, and labor to install the system. This costing is based on prices in the San Francisco Bay Area. The cost may be less outside of the SF Bay Area.