The Advantages Of An Access Control System
Access control to business premises, schools, nursing homes and other buildings is a serious issue in our society. For organisations like these, there is a need to control casual entry to a premises without impeding those going about their daily business. One answer is to install a keyless entry system or access control system.
An access control system is an electronic system which uses remote keys or tags to release door locks. The tag, which is carried or worn by a user, is presented in the vicinity of a reader located adjacent to a door and communicates with that reader using encoded radio waves. This eliminates the need for any contact. Once a tag is recognised by the reader, a signal is transmitted to release an electro magnet on the door lock.
Each tag has a unique number stored on an electronic chip encased in plastic. There is no power source (battery) within the tag. The reader is basically an antenna which is hard wired to a control unit. The reader on the door is powered from the mains supply and it emits radio waves via its antenna.
The tag also has an antenna which receives the radio waves from the reader. When the tag is within approximately 50mm (2″) of the transmitter, the power contained within the transmitted radio waves is sufficient to induce a small current in the chip contained in the tag. This current powers and operates the chip which is programmed to modify the received signal and send the modified encoded radio waves back to the control unit.
An access control system has the following benefits:
- Contactless release of locking mechanism
- One Tag opens all assigned doors allowing easy configuration of different access rights to groups or individuals
- Allows simple access control of visitors, employees and the general public throughout a site
- A simple operation removes access rights from a tag if an employee leaves with it or loses it
- No numbers to remember
- Simple to set up and change configuration as required
- Low maintenance
- Easy to expand access control system if requirements change
- No multiple keys or numbers required
- Vandal proof
- Extremely fast lock release
When considering the purchase and installation of an access control system, it is important to use a professional installation company that is qualified to carry out the work.