What is access control?
Access control is a system which enables an authority to control access to areas and resources in a given physical facility or computer-based information system. An access control system, within the field of physical security (buildings and area within buildings), is generally seen as the second layer in the security of a physical structure.
What is the importance of access control?
The possession of access control is of prime importance when persons (business and/or homeowners) seek to secure important, confidential, sensitive information or equipment.
What is the reason/purpose for having access control?
Access control systems are designed to permit the free flow of authorised movement into any site or area within a site, whilst denying entry to unwanted visitors or unauthorised staff.
What can an access control system manage?
Access control is used to manage entry and egress of certain gates or doors.
How does access control work?
Access control works by business owners/managers issuing electronically coded proximity tags or cards, which are presented by the recipients/holders to proximity readers located adjacent access controlled gates or doors which the holder wants to enter. Each card or tag is programmed into the access control system in such a way as to authorise and allow the holder access through certain doors while denying access to certain other doors. Access can be therefore managed very precisely for each individual staff member as required. If at any time a card holder loses his or her access card/tag, its electronic number can be quickly removed from the system and a new card/tag issued. Larger businesses usually appoint staff members as administrators of the access control system.
How do proximity cards/tags work?
A proximity card/tag allows users to gain access and egress to a pre-defined area by simply scanning the card/tag in front of a proximity card reader. The proximity card reader then analyses the data stored in the card/tag and determines whether the user has authorised entry based on access level, date and/or time of day. The reader then stores the information and records the activity for future reference or reports. This type of system can monitor individuals’ access, protect employees and provide full activity reports. Access control software is password protected and allows administrator access to particular programmes, networks or drives.
What other access control device can be used instead of proximity cards?
Instead of proximity cards customers can use proximity tags, which are generally more robust and have a longer operating life. They work in exactly the same way as proximity cards but conveniently can be hooked onto a key ring, which helps minimise the chance of losing them.
What range of access control systems do you install?
The main access control systems we install are the Tecom Challenger, Paradox Digiplex Evo and the Elite S.
What security equipment can be connected to an access control system?
One of the features of an access control system is that it incorporates a security alarm. This usually means any detector that can be connected to a security alarm can be connected to an access control system, e.g. movement detectors, sirens, smoke detectors, reed switches, glass break detectors, etc.
The specific range of access control equipment includes: proximity readers, PIN pads (keypads), push buttons, biometric (fingerprint) readers, iris recognition, electric door strikes and mortice locks, wireless remotes, magnetic locks, electric drop bolts and ‘Request to Exit’ buttons.