Electronic access control systems consist of field devices, decision modules, a communication network, one or more databases and one or more human interface terminals. An EAC system is ideally used as part of a fully integrated facility management system. In such a system, EAC is connected and integrated with fire/life safety systems, video surveillance systems, communication systems, and non-safety-related systems such as HVAC.
In an integrated system, EAC systems allow users to access multiple areas or limited areas. As a safety feature and for emergency situations, they can determine where people are in the facility. In general, EAC systems are very flexible and technological advances make them even more flexible. By integrating with building automation features like heating and lighting, you can save money by better controlling when you really need them.
We have written an article about this use case, which you can find here. An access control system also means that you have control over all areas of your facility and ensure that unauthorized persons cannot access files and server rooms. In more advanced systems, the aspect of manual operations can be automated. For example, deployment can be done automatically by connecting the access panel to the company’s employee directory.
When it comes to deciding who has access to what, there are usually several departments involved. This can include human resources, facility and IT management, as well as security. Often, each of these departments has its own system that works independently. However, this is inefficient and can lead to errors that pose significant security risks. If someone has to enter many different buildings and rooms, he needs a large number of keys that are uncomfortable to carry and use.
For example, set it up so that the first person to enter your building in the morning alerts the system to turn on the lights, blinds, and heating/air conditioning. At the end of the day, these smart systems shut down, which can help improve your office’s Control Integrators cost efficiency and climate footprint by saving energy. Not only can access control help keep your facility secure by managing who can enter your building, but it can also be integrated with other building systems to enhance your workspace.
In addition, they may be given the opportunity to give temporary mobile passes to dog walkers, delivery services and other visitors. Mechanical keys are the most rudimentary method of physical access control, and many smaller companies use them. However, mechanical keys have limitations, especially as an organization grows.
Instead of using individual elements that can have compatibility issues, an integrated system brings together all aspects of an organization’s security in a single center. Sharing security responsibility across multiple parties or sticking to legacy systems for too long can cause major problems for modern businesses. Integrated solutions create intuitive and customizable hubs that give a company’s employees a clear view of the company’s network environment and potential vulnerabilities. The level of detailed permissions you can achieve with an intelligent integrated security system means that security managers can set highly custom access rights based on the employee. Key cards and access control systems are suitable for more than large companies with thousands of employees. Small and medium-sized enterprises can also benefit from the advantages of an access control system.
Today’s electronic access control program can protect itself “from itself” by requiring double or triple authentication for access. Systems are digital networks that control access to security portals. A security portal is an entrance inside or outside a security boundary. Most electronic access control systems also act as an intrusion detection system. From that moment on, we assume that the systems we are talking about have an alarm system element.