A
discussion of what access control is, common access control technology, the
methods employed and the components used.
There are many levels
of access control, ranging from an open door to very elaborate bio-metric
control devices.
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.
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 one
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.
Mechanical Push Button lock
are used extensively for access control, the limitation is that all users
would have the same entry code.
The next step might be
a stand alone battery powered lock, these locks have and are continuing to
evolve at a very rapid pace, they have many useful features, and are
becoming very popular.
No hardwiring
Range from single to
multiple user, some allow groups and management levels.
Some can "learn"
existing controls.
Units that keep
audit trails are available.
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.
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 access
controls to use, type of credential to use.
What type of egress
control can be used
There are many different technologies
being used for access control, providing many levels of access, and new
technologies are emerging rapidly.
High security restricted keys
(what you have) good security.
Card readers (what you have)
with pin number (what you have, and what you know) better security.
Proximity readers (what you
have) with pin number (what you have, and what you know) better
security.
Biometric readers, hand
geometry, fingerprint, retina etc. (what you are) best security.
