Frequently Asked Questions:ACS

An access control system (ACS) is a type of security system that controls who or what is allowed entry into a structure, environment, or facility. An ACS identifies people that have access to an access point based on the validity of their credentials.

To gain access to a restricted area, users will have to present their credentials - usually in the form of an access card - to identify themselves and enter a building or room. It’s often a simple solution, but it performs the vital task of safely controlling entry to sensitive locations.

Access points are certainly not limited to doors. Turnstiles, barriers and even traffic lights can be included. Anywhere where access could be electronically controlled can benefit from being included in an access control solution.

Biometric access control is a developing technology that relies on human characteristics like fingerprint scanning and facial recognition to work alongside or replace traditional means of access. The advantages of biometrics are pushing the technology forward rapidly, offering increased accountability and reduced loss.

With existing cards, it often depends on who owns the system. This is because access cards can have either an open or closed protocol, which can limit accessibility.

The most important thing is that the card holder reports the card lost. Once this has happened, the card can be rendered useless by having access revoked in the central database. The access control system will also be able to tell if and where the card has been used to attempt to gain access since it had been lost.

Yes, they can.

Yes, cards are usually personalized with a photo of the user so that they double up as an ID badge. Visitors can also be assigned numbered badges to ensure they are visible and have the correct access for the right amount of time.

Turnstiles are a basic form of access control. A turnstile is a type of gate that allows only one person to pass through an entrance at a time.

ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. It's important to consider when choosing access control systems because it sets standards for handicap accessibility in gates and entrances.

Fail safe turnstiles unlock in the event of power loss/emergency, allowing free passage. Fail secure turnstiles lock in the event of power loss or emergency, denying free passage.

Optical turnstiles use infrared sensors to control access and can be chosen for their modern look and high throughput, suitable for high-end lobbies and corporate settings.

Will I be trapped inside my building

Measures like hiring guards, implementing biometric scanners, and using full height turnstiles can minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

Our electronic operation turnstiles include an Integrated Power Supply that allows them to be plugged into standard wall outlets worldwide.

Our full height 400 Series turnstile line offers the most protection and security as they span from floor to ceiling, made of solid steel.

A reader reads credentials and communicates with the locking mechanism of a turnstile to grant or deny access.

A card reader plate is a metal plate where a card reader can be mounted on a full height turnstile.

Single-wall turnstiles have one exposed face while double-wall turnstiles are fully enclosed, providing increased protection.

Yes, many companies provide remote control of access control systems, allowing you to view events, control doors, and open entrances from your smartphone or tablet.

An online access control system allows you to monitor activity on site much more closely, while a standalone system is simpler and set up at each individual door.

Access control allows entry through electronic means like keyfobs or access codes, while door entry systems involve communication with someone inside the property to grant access.

Yes, many companies offer remote control capabilities for access control systems. Our recommended solution for clients requiring remote access to their access control system enables event monitoring, door control, and entrance opening via smartphones or tablets. For further insights into how such a system operates, please reach out to us.

Certainly, our proficient engineers can install your new system and establish a connection cable to your existing gates (or automated doors, roller shutters, turnstiles, etc.). This integration enables the operation of gates from the access control or door entry system.

Typically, we can upgrade an existing audio door entry system to incorporate video functionality by leveraging the existing cable infrastructure in place. Whenever possible, we aim to utilize components of your current system, expediting installation and reducing costs. Kindly share your requirements with us and specify the equipment currently installed, if known, or provide photographs for identification purposes.

Beyond installation, our expertise extends to the repair, servicing, and maintenance of audio and video door entry systems. With a collective experience exceeding 60 years in the security industry, we possess the capability to service a wide array of systems from top brands.