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Access Control Methods, Technology,
Components
A discussion of
what access control is, common access control technology, the methods
employed and the components used.
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There are many
levels of access control, ranging from an open door to very
elaborate bio-metric control devices.
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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.
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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.
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Accountability - Audit trails
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Convenience - no need to rekey
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Security - no one enters without
permission
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Control of time and people who
can access - who can enter and when, commonly called time zone
capability.
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Time and Attendance - no need
for the old time clock.
This solution would be very
expensive.
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Mechanical Push Button lock are used
extensively for access control, the limitation is that all users
would have the same entry code.
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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.
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No hardwiring
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Range from single to multiple
user, some allow groups and management levels.
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Some can "learn"
existing controls.
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Units that keep audit trails are
available.
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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.
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Can integrate with alarm systems, fire alarm systems and
CCTV systems.
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Can be remotely controlled - i.e. via modem and computer.
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If a card or control is lost - no need to "rekey",
you just delete the lost control and issue a new one.
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The type of system that will
be right for your needs will depend on many factors, including;
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Fire and Building codes
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Inspection by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
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Can wires be run.
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Does your system need to
integrate with your alarm or fire system.
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How many openings, or buildings
are involved.
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How many users.
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Types of access controls to use,
type of credential to use.
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What type of egress control can
be used
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There are many different technologies being
used for access control, providing many levels of access, and
new technologies are emerging rapidly.
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High security restricted keys (what you
have) good security.
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Card readers (what you have) with pin
number (what you have, and what you know) better security.
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Proximity readers (what you have) with pin
number (what you have, and what you know) better security.
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Biometric readers, hand geometry,
fingerprint, retina etc. (what you are) best security.
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