The Main Components of a Door Access Control System

There are many different kinds of door access control systems available on the market today, from electric locks to intelligent readers. Before choosing the right one for your needs, learn about the components of the system. Whether you need to control multiple buildings or manage access permissions for guests, you can find the right system for your needs. This article will cover the main components of a door access control system, including the benefits of each. Listed below are a few of the most popular options for door access control systems.

Intelligent readers

Door access control systems use intelligent readers to monitor who enters and exits a building. These readers connect to door hardware to determine who can enter or exit, and do not make access decisions themselves. Instead, they forward all access requests to a main controller. They will use an internal database only if the main controller is unavailable. Generally, there are 16 to 64 readers in a door access control system. Depending on the needs of a facility, there are different types of readers.

Electric locks

When it comes to door access control systems, one of the best options is electrified locks. These locks utilize a series of magnets, solenoids, and motors to operate. Once a user activates an access control device, the lock releases the door. Electric strikes are fail-safe and provide remote control capability, as well as controlled access. Unlike traditional mechanical locks, electric strikes don't require complex installation by contractors. And they are more reliable than their mechanical counterparts, as they can be accessed from inside the building.

Controller

A door access control system controller is one of the first lines of defense in any building security system. This device manages all the devices attached to it. It can be installed in a secure location, away from any kind of interference, and implement changes to its software immediately. It can also be part of a networked system. To learn more about these devices, read on! Listed below are the differences between the three types.

Management software

If you have been thinking about installing a door access control system in your business, you may be wondering what to look for in the software. These products are extremely powerful, offering a variety of capabilities. Read on to learn more about these products. One of the most important functions of any access control system is establishing who is allowed to enter a building or location. Credential entry is done either manually or with a swipe card. The cards contain information such as a person's name, privilege level, and picture.

Stand-alone (battery powered) option

One option to consider for a door access control system is a stand-alone (battery-powered) device. These devices do not need to be connected to a network and eliminate the cost and hassle associated with installing and maintaining door access control systems. Stand-alone readers are ideal for a wide range of applications and are UL-listed as panic hardware. This type of door access control device also conforms to MIL-STD-810F Methods 506.4 and 509.4.

Biometric credentials

When it comes to door access control, biometrics is a great option. Unlike RFID cards, biometric credentials are unique to a person. In addition to a person's unique physical characteristics, biometrics also provide greater security than cards. Biometric door readers have built-in software that can detect the biometric features of the user. This way, only the right people have access to a building or room.

Scalability

There are many different reasons to consider scalability when choosing an access control system for your doors. The more doors you have, the more sophisticated your system will need to be. While some door access control systems are built to handle only a few, others have room to grow and integrate with other systems. If you're concerned about the complexity of a door access control system, you may want to consider a cloud-based solution. These types of systems can scale horizontally, enabling you to add as many door openings as you need.