Types of Access Control Systems
Electronic Card, Badge, or Key Fob
One of the most common forms of business access control for employees. Users simply swipe their card or badge on a reader at the access point to gain entry to a room or building. Because these are pre-activated and issued to individuals, electronic solutions can be tailored to allow employees access only to the areas they need to go, improving internal security and restricting sensitive locations. Proximity tags, cards, and magnetic swipe cards can be customised with your company’s logo, and with the addition of Photo ID technology, may also serve as a photographic ID badge.
Biometric Access Control
These (sometimes controversial) systems provide the highest level of access security. Readers are placed beside an entry point to scan fingerprints, handprints, or retinas, and compare them to an approved database.
As mentioned above, access control can offer flexible control over users’ access rights. For example, all staff can gain access through the main door of a building, but access to internal areas may be restricted to those who have a specific need to be there. Access may also be restricted by time, only granting access to particular users at certain times of day or night, or doors can be set to unlock during a designated time frame(s).
Standalone (Offline) Access Control
This type of system may be used to control access to one or many independent doors in a building. Access is typically gained by using a PIN or electronic token, and there is no need for a PC or network. Unlike a networked system, a standalone system is programmed at each door. If tokens need to be barred or codes changed, this action must be completed at every door on the system.
This solution is ideal for smaller sites with a relatively small number of users. Token management is simple, and the system can be extended easily as your requirements change.
Networked Access Control
Networked access control offers centralised control of your building from a PC. This means that commands given at the PC are sent to each of the doors instantly, with actions including opening doors, barring tokens, and building lockdown. Another benefit of this type of system is flexible control, allowing different permissions for individuals or groups of users.
Ideal for sites managing multiple doors and users, the system can be extended easily and offers advanced features such as event reporting, energy saving, and integration with business CCTV and other systems.
Contact us now to discuss your requirements.
Our Installation Process
Clear Sound Fire & Security will always complete a detailed survey of your site and discuss any requirements you may have to ensure we have fully identified the risks/issues you are looking to address with your access control system. Every design is bespoke, and our specialist surveyors have an in-depth working knowledge of the right equipment types and placement to ensure you have a system that precisely meets the issues identified during your survey.
Our trustworthy team members have Enhanced DBS checks and are all vetted to BS7858. We will design and install your system according to the highest standards and provide ongoing maintenance and support to ensure it remains in perfect working order for the duration of its life.
Contact us now to discuss your requirements.
Door Entry Systems for Businesses
A door entry system is another important component for your business’s security infrastructure. Operating on its own, or in conjunction with your other access control systems, an entry system serves as both a doorbell and an intercom to allow you to screen visitors and control who enters your premises.
Our commercial intercom solutions include:
Audio buzzer systems: Visitors press a button that activates an internal control unit. The user can then speak to the caller through a telephone handset or microphone. If access is granted, the operator simply presses a button that releases a lock on the door. This is the cheapest and most common security door system for business settings.
Video door entry systems: These systems combine security cameras at the point of entry and a monitor at the control panel (as well as a buzzer and microphone), allowing the operator to visually identify the visitor.
Mobile phone and internet door entry systems: An increasingly popular option that permits remote control of entry points from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
Other considerations
Fitting a ‘trades’ button allows access to some areas at certain times and is useful for deliveries and collections.
Do you need to make accommodations for disabled users? Can a wheelchair user reach the buzzer or be seen by the surveillance camera? Contact us now to discuss how we can design a system that fully aligns with your needs.
Maintain your Business’ Privacy and Security
We are pleased to offer a full range of electronic and biometric access control solutions to businesses and corporate clients throughout Coventry, Warwickshire, and the wider West Midlands.
Get in touch today to learn more about how our experienced, fully trained engineers can design, install, and maintain a bespoke access control system that meets your business needs and complies with all relevant regulatory requirements.
Call us on 024 7666 8366 to book a free consultation.