The first IP door access control system was introduced by Isonas around the year 2000. This was revolutionary at the time because each door reader included the intelligence that was typically provided by a control box. It took many years for this new technology to be accepted by the access control industry. Most security dealers were used to the centralized controller boxes with Wiegand readers at each door. Today IP door access systems are replacing the older centralized systems. This article provides a summary of the IP network attached door access control systems with the pros and cons of each type of system.
The IP access control systems provide a clear benefit over the older control box systems because of their easy scalability. You can add one reader at a time without having to run cables from a central location. These smart door systems utilize the existing network infrastructure and are powered over Ethernet (PoE), significantly reducing installation costs.
We compared three access control systems, the Isonas reader/controller system, the Hartmann control system with a separate IP controller located at the door, and the Biometric IP readers.
The Isonas door access system is best used for small to medium-sized installations. It is a perfect system when you don’t require any advanced control features. They connect to a PoE network switch or use a PoE injector. The reader includes a pigtail of wires that are used to trigger the electric lock, monitor the door and provide Request to Exit connections. Since all the wires are located at the door, the installation is simple.
The Isonas management software is available as a cloud subscription or as an on-site license. The software is simple and easy to use. The cloud-based system can be managed using an app on your mobile device. It makes it easy to control a system that is located in different buildings and locations.
We consider the Hartmann control door access control system an enterprise system because it includes advanced features that are not found in the Isonas solution. This doesn’t mean it can’t be used in a small system. It has the same flexibility as the Isonas system in that everything is located at the door.
The difference between the two systems is that the controller function is in a separate box that is mounted above the door. The architecture allows you to connect two readers to the same controller. This provides the ability to include an exit reader as well as an entrance reader at the door.
The Hartmann control access control system provides enterprise-level management and control of all the doors. The door access management software provides advanced functions such as logic if-then functions, and allows you to control elevators, visitors, and integrates with IP camera systems. We think the integration with many different IP camera systems makes this a powerful solution that increases security.
The software can be administered using a web-browser interface which means you can control your system form a smartphone, tablet or PC.
The biometric access control system provides increased security because it identifies a person rather than the credential that they carry. These reader controllers attach the network and can be powered over Ethernet (PoE). There is a choice of fingerprint, facial recognition, or finger-vein readers. They also support RFID card credentials. These biometric door readers cost slightly more than the RFID proximity type readers.
The management software is sophisticated and provides easy to use management functions. It also includes some additional ability such as maps, and floor plans. It also offers some optional advanced features such as elevator control, anti-passback, and visitor management.
All the door control systems connect to the network and are powered over Ethernet (PoE). You can select the Isonas IP door readers which are excellent for small to medium installations, or the Hartmann Controls Enterprise access control system that includes advanced capability such as elevator control, and integration with IP camera systems. If you need additional security, you can select the biometric access control system. The biometric readers cost slightly more per door than the two other systems but add additional security.
If you would like help selecting the right door access control system for your organization, please contact us at 800-431-1658 in the USA, or at 914-944-3425 everywhere else, or use our contact form.
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