What to consider before purchasing your Access Control System
Several things should be considered before selecting your access control system. The system controls who, where, and when a person can enter your facility. However, there are many other things that you should think about before purchasing the system.
To ensure you select the right system for your needs, consider the following key factors:
Things to Consider include the type of door readers, where the controller is located, installation, the type of electric door lock, local compliance and regulations, User management
The Type of Door Readers for Access Control
The door reader is mounted at the door where you would like to control entry. It detects a person’s credentials, which are checked by the rest of the access control system. A credential can be a pin code, magnetic strip, an RFID-transmitted credential, a mobile smartphone connection, or a biometric credential.
The door reader is one factor that can determine security, ease of use, and recurring costs. For example, biometric readers, such as face recognition, are the most expensive to buy but provide the highest level of security because they recognize a person rather than the credentials they carry. You save money because you don’t have to purchase card credentials.
To learn more about the best Door Reader for your application, please read Comparison of the Latest Door Readers.
Installation Considerations for Access Control System
The type of electric lock depends on the kind of door you have. Some doors can use the electric strike, while others require a magnetic lock. It is essential to look at each one of your doors to determine the best type of lock.
Among the most common electric locks are the electric strike and the magnetic (Mag) lock. Each offers distinct advantages and is best suited for specific scenarios. Understanding the differences between these two types is essential to ensure the security and functionality of your access control system. The mag lock is easy to install but must conform to local fire regulations.
To learn more about electric locks, please read our article, Access Control Electric Locks: Mags versus Strikes.
Where the controller is located can affect the installation. Some door readers have the controller built into the unit at the door, greatly simplifying the wiring. Other controllers can be located near the door, and others are placed at a central location and connect to multiple door readers.
For more information on controllers, please read our article, Access Controller Comparison.
How the system is wired also affects its cost and the complexity of the installation. Some Access Control Systems require a complicated wiring harness from the door reader, lock, and controller. The latest access control systems are less complex and require less installation time. They connect to the network and use Power over Ethernet for the reader, controller, and lock. These systems are much easier to install because you only need to run a network cable (with PoE) to the door.
Please read our article, Access Control Installation, to learn more about making decisions about installing your access control system.
Access Control Management Software
Access Control Management software can provide basic functions or have more advanced features such as elevator control, pass-back control, fire alarm, and other emergency functions. To learn more, see our article Access Control Features.
The management software is usually sold together with the manufacturer’s hardware. The software controls a particular kind of door readers and controllers, so they must be selected with the matching system. Fusion-DNA is the exception to this rule. This interoperable software is designed to work with many different hardware products. To learn more about universal software, please look at our description, Fusion-DNA Access Control Software.
Cloud or On-Site Management
On-site Access Control Software is the classic model with a perpetual license, allowing you to run the software on your computer. Cloud software runs on a remote server and is provided under a monthly or yearly subscription plan. Our article, Access Control Management Software: Cloud Versus On-site, reviews the pros and cons of each type of Access control management software.
Integration of Access Control with Other Security Systems
Access control can be integrated with IP Camera Systems, Intercoms, and Visitor Management systems.
Access Control and IP Camera Systems
Access control systems can be integrated with IP camera systems to increase security. Integration can be accomplished using special or Access Control Management software that supports IP Camera System integration.
See IP Camera System and Door Access Control Integration to learn more about integrating IP camera systems with door access control.
Integration of Door Control and Visitor Management Systems
Access Control systems allow registered people to enter a specific door at a pre-determined schedule. Visitor management systems control people who are not registered. Together, they provide increased safety and security.
Integrating the two systems creates a comprehensive approach to safeguarding people, assets, and information. Access Control Systems ensure only registered members can enter a facility, while visitor management systems control the visitors.
See our article, Visitor Management and Access Control Provide Enhanced Security to learn more.
Integration of Access Control and Intercoms
Integrating door access control, intercoms, and IP camera systems provides a method of controlling visitors and allowing authorized people to enter the building. There are several types of intercoms.
Three solutions are available.
- An Intercom system with a separate IP camera uses audio management software to provide integrated video.
- An IP intercom with a built-in camera uses Video Management Software to see and hear the person at the door.
- An Apartment Intercom allows the visitor to select the tenant. It uses a cloud connection to smartphones to control entry.
To learn more, please read the article Access Control and Intercoms: The Perfect Match.
Summary of Considerations Before Purchasing Access Control
Selecting the right access control system is a strategic decision that impacts security, user experience, type of door reader and door lock, installation cost and time, integration with other security systems, and ease of operation. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure your system meets your current needs while remaining flexible for future challenges.
If you need help selecting the best Access Control System, please call us at 1-800-431-1658 in the USA or 914-944-3425 worldwide or use our contact form.