Access to a resource or resources can be controlled by any number of ways and resources can include property such as buildings, data, financial information or personal privacy. Access control systems can be as simple as putting a coin in the door to gain entry to a bathroom stall or as sophisticated as biometric scanning before entry is granted.
The control systems themselves can be anything from physical barriers to armed guards checking authorization before entry can be granted. The guards in many cases will simply verify and compare your name against a list of authorized personnel. Typically, before technology caught up with demand, a guard would be stationed behind a glass partition and anyone wanting access must verify their identity with the guard. Once the proper credentials are checked and verified, the guard then releases an electronic locking mechanism by pushing a button. A door by its physical nature is a main component in access control systems however, turnstiles at a subway station, a barrier into a parking garage or even an elevator can deny access unless money is deposited, or a ticket is presented or a code entered.
Doors can be programmed to open based on a series of numbers entered into a keypad. Once the right combination is entered, a signal is sent that releases a magnetic lock allowing the door to open. Systems that are more sophisticated may require fingerprint, palm print or even an optical scan for verification, before entry is granted.
Biometric scanners are becoming more popular as technology advances, which increases effectiveness and at the same time reduces the costs of the systems. These scanners can be used to control access to computers, time clocks, safes and buildings. Biometric scanners can be used to verify handwriting, fingerprints, voice and can be used to identify people through optical scans. High security areas may employ a combination of access control systems in one unit, to include card readers, biometric scanners and an access code.
You as a homeowner or business owner can upgrade your entry or access doors by installing magnetic locking systems for enhanced security. You want to ensure the system is installed with an access control panel that is connected to the home or business’s security system. This will alert you to any tampering of the system and for safety reasons the locks must be programmed to disengage in the event the smoke or fire alarms are activated. This prevents you from being trapped and unable to unlock the doors. To operate the doors a person would typically enter a security code.
There are various designs and pricing available for these types of systems. The systems can be installed on office doors, cash room doors, stockrooms and video monitoring rooms. Typically, the systems will require professional installation. These systems are also ideal when used in conjunction with video surveillance systems. The locks can be installed on security gates, and the gates can be unlocked once the visitors have been screened using a video surveillance system. The systems can be as sophisticated as you like depending on the level of security that is required.
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