Access control is one of the most dynamically growing areas of electronic security. The technologies used in electronic security have evolved, like everything else electronic.
Scalability is the term used to describe how easily a particular system can be expanded to include a greater number of doors. Although all access control is built one door at a time, the management and monitoring of multiple doors is a concern and important factor for many installations. If many doors may be managed under a centralized platform, the cost to add doors can be reduced and ease with which multiple doors and multiple end-users can be administered will be streamlined, and become significant factors in the specifying process. In some instances, there will be little need to add multiple doors, but thanks to newest technology, scalability has become less and issue.
Credentials first transitioned from keys to keypads, then from keypads to credentials. The evolution has now continued to include biometrics, Bluetooth and NFC devices, all in the interests of providing more convenient and concise solutions for every installation.
Administering a mechanical key system is generally a slow and expensive proposition. After all the locksmithing industry was founded and built on traditional keys and mechanical locks. Yes, of course proprietary keyways and interchangeable cores increase security and speed up the process, but they also increase the costs, and are still very limited when tracking keys and individuals, and monitoring activity at the door is required. Clearly the trend is towards the use of devices, laptops and centrally located computer based administrative hardware and software for administering access control.
How access controls interconnect, obtain power to operate and unlock doors has also evolved significantly. Most Locksmith Ledger readers will have heard of TCP/IP, RS485, Bluetooth, Wifi, PoE and UTP. All these technologies are employed by systems to achieve their desired functionality. Some systems use multiple topologies and can be easily adapted with inexpensive modules and upgrades.
There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” in electronic access control. Here is a sampling of interesting new technologies introduced in 2015.
CAMDEN CV-350
Camden Controls. CV-350 is a powerful and flexible TCP/IP and RS485 networked access control system that is designed to provide easier management, better security and enhanced performance, including integration with fire alarm and intruder alarm systems and time and attendance.
The innovative CV-350 controllers support all input and outputs required for control of two doors (reducing the equipment costs of one door systems) and there is virtually no limit to the number of CV-350 controllers (and users) that can be seamlessly networked together in a single system. System management software also supports multiple CV-350 systems via Internet or LAN connection.
Controller features include:
- • Two-door networkable access control unit, reduces equipment cost of multi-door applications
- • Built-in TCP/IP and RS485
- • 360-day data retention upon power loss
- • Fuse protection: 1A for mains, 2A for 12VDC output
- • Color coded wiring and terminals for easy installation
- •2 Wiegand (8 to 128-bit) reader ports
- •2 free inputs (N/O or N/C) and two door sensor inputs
- •4 fully programmable 10 amp, N/O and N/C relay outputs
- • Integrated fingerprint reader support
- • Tamper input
- •Lockable metal enclosure integrated with a transformer, power supply/charger
Network features include:
- • Distributed intelligence controllers will function even if the communication is not present
- • Failure of one controller unit will not affect other controllers on the network
- • Unlimited number of controllers per system. firmware updates through software.
- • Unlimited number of comports, TCP/IP nodes and subnets
- • 1 RS485 communication bus per system
- • Up to 15.000 users per controller
- • Up to 15,000 PINS, 1 to 8 digit length, per controller
More Info: www.camdencontrols.com
Schlage NDE Lock with ENGAGE
Schlage’s NDE lock with ENGAGE technology opens the door to a new level of intelligence with visibility and control and transition from mechanical keys to electronic credentials with technology that’s easy to install, easy to manage and easy to use.
Solutions featuring ENGAGE technology can be customized to fit any size of business or budget from a standalone system to the sophistication of fully integrated access control.
Schlage® NDE series wireless locks with ENGAGE technology are designed to fit into a standard cylindrical door prep, making it easy to upgrade without having to replace the door or modify the frame. Installation is complete in minutes using just a Phillips screwdriver, with no additional holes to drill or wires to run to the opening.
The NDE is the first from Schlage to feature a built-in door position sensor on the lock and strike plate, eliminating the time and cost to install and wire separate components. And since lever handing can be changed in the field in a matter of seconds, you can easily accommodate a left- or right-handed door.
NDE series wireless locks are powered by four AA batteries with a battery life of up to two years under normal usage.
NDE series wireless locks meet the highest industry standards for reliability and durability, including ANSI/BHMA A 156.25, ANSI/BHMA Grade 1, UL 294, UL10C, Industry Canada and FCC Part 15. They also meet ADA, RoHS, and LEED certifications
For basic standalone applications, the ENGAGE apps are used to manage locks, add and delete credentials and view lock history from anywhere. For applications where more advanced capabilities are required, the ENGAGE mobile app is used to configure and connect the locks to an access control alliance partner system.
Building IDs and NFC-enabled smart phone devices are common electronic credentials that work with ENGAGE technology.
Both proximity and smart credentials are held up to an electronic reader to initiate the validation process and gain access.
For basic access control applications, either type of credential works. Note, however, that smart card technology is rapidly growing in popularity.
The ENGAGE™ Gateway is designed to be used with devices that feature ENGAGE™ technology, including Schlage® NDE Series Wireless locks, to deliver real-time networked connectivity with NDE Alliance Partner systems. Each ENGAGE Gateway can support up to 5 wireless devices for a wide range of applications including interior suite entries, offices, conference rooms, sensitive storage areas and more.
The ENGAGE Gateway provides the ability to leverage existing IP based or RS-485 infrastructure for maximum flexibility. Built in PoE provides the ability to connect to the network for real-time access control directly from an in- or out-of-network host; to further simplify installation the gateway can be powered over ethernet (PoE).
Additionally, the ENGAGE Gateway is designed to work seamlessly in an existing RS-485 environment to extend access control to more doors.
Features and benefits include:
- Small form factor, versatile design fits almost anywhere
- Plug & play connectivity without opening or drilling into the housing. External recessed power, antenna, RS-485 and Ethernet (PoE) ports for easy set-up
- Designed to work seamlessly in an existing RS-485 environment
- Designed with the PoE built in to leverage a building’s existing network infrastructure
- Easily & securely commissions in seconds with the free ENGAGE™ mobile app—no proprietary handheld device required
- Secure AES-256 bit encrypted 2.4 GHz Bluetooth 4.0 communication between Gateway and ENGAGE™ enabled devices does not interfere with (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) Wi-Fi networks
- Capable of managing up to 5 ENGAGE™ enabled devices for a wide range of applications
- Certifications: UL294, FCC Part 15, Industry Canada(IC), RoHS; PoE compliant to IEEE 802.3af/at
- Optional 12 VDC external power supply to achieve UL294 Listing
More Info: http://us.allegion.com/Products/electronic_locks/engage
PAXTON Net2 Entry
Paxton recently launched two new panels and released an update to the Net2 Entry software to offer enhanced door entry functionality for versatile security and building management.
The new Net2 Entry panels replace Paxton’s current offering. The latest versions feature MIFARE® technology, a new intuitive panel interface and digital pan/tilt camera functionality.
Paxton’s design combines audio, video, access control, and power all via one cat5 cable.
Diversifying from access control, Paxton released Net2 Entry, their first door entry system, in 2012. Net2 Entry consists of just three components that auto-detect on set up; an external panel, interior monitor and door controller, as a plug and play solution. The products’ simplicity and ease of use has proved popular with security installers.
The new Net2 Entry panels come in two variations, standard and vandal resistant. The slimline standard panel has a high contrast back-lit keypad The robust vandal resistant panel is made from corrosion resistant 316L marine grade stainless steel, with an impact resistance rating of IK10, to withstand even the harshest environment.
Both variations are available in flush-mount, surface-mount, and surface mount with rain-hood versions, making them suitable for a range of environments.
The updated system also includes a versatile ‘grouping’ feature which enables smarter management and the separation of multiple Net2 Entry systems into multiple groups, allowing the control of selected monitors from selected panels. This is useful in applications such as gated communities, multi-tenant buildings, and office buildings. Improved SIP compatibility allows more sites to enjoy the flexibility of answering their door via their intuitive touchscreen monitor, office phone, smart phone, computer, or tablet.
Net2 Entry features include:
- • Just 3 components, simply plug together
- • Units auto detect for easy plug and play installation
- • Easily scalable - system expands using industry standard Ethernet switches
- • Comes with Net2 access control built-in
- • Multi-format proximity reader – reads Paxton and MIFARE® token technology (HID coming soon via software update)
- • SIP compatible – the door can be answered from intuitive touchscreen monitor, office phone, smart phone, computer, or tablet
- • DTMF 2833 compliant for release of a door from a touch tone phone when using SIP
- • Grouping feature enables smarter management of multi-tenant buildings
- • Digital pan/tilt camera functionality to capture an angled view, for a diverse range of locations
- Intuitive user interface for adding a secondary ONVIF complaint camera to view in the Net2 Monitor
- Intruder alarm integration for ultimate convenience
- Video voicemail
More Info: www.paxton-access.com
SDC IP Pro™ Controller
The IP Pro™ fron Security Door Controls is an IP-based single-door controller. It supports two separate Wiegand readers for true In/Out reader functionality. It may be expanded to two or more openings by adding multiple IPDC controllers, or with the IP Pro™ Expansion Door Station. Up to 31 Door Stations may be controlled by a single IP Controller.
The Controller includes a secure, embedded web server which allows installers and users to manage installations without requiring separate software. The web server is easily accessed using a common PC-based web browser (e.g., Microsoft IE, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, etc.)
Using the IP Pro™ PoE+ Injector & Splitter allows the Controller to connect and be powered using an existing Ethernet network infrastructure. The splitter provides a 12VDC power source capable of powering the controller, reader, and locking device. SDC offers a complete selection of low energy Access Control and Electrified Locking Hardware, guaranteed to work with the IP Pro™ Series controllers.
Features include:
- Controls one door directly, with unlimited expansion capabilities
- TCP/IP communications (100/10Mbps)
- DHCP or Static IP addresses
- Password protected built-in web server (No separate software to install)
- Live transaction monitoring
- Entry & exit reader capability
- Compatible with industry standard Wiegand output readers
- Reader short circuit protection
- Compliant with PoE+ standard
- 15,000 users (up to 2 credentials per user)
- Batch card enrollment
- 250 user groups/Time Zones/Door Groups
- Scheduled Events
- Temporary Users
- Audit Trail - Up to 5,000 events maybe exported as a .csv file
- Status LEDs - Power, Communications, & Fault on-board diagnostic indicators
- Supported browsers: Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 & 9, Firefox 8.0, Google Chrome
- Multiple credential modes: Card only, PIN only, Pin or Card, Pin & Card
- Door Status Monitoring Input
- Request-to-Exit (REX) Input
- Programmable Auxiliary Input
- Lock Relay Output
- Auxiliary Relay Output
- (2) Programmable Solid-state Outputs
- Database backup support
More Info: www.sdcsecurity.com
Alarm Lock Trilogy Networx
Trilogy™ Networx Wireless Access Locks, the foundation for the ArchiTech locking platform, eliminate door-to-door programming and audit trail retrieval by communicating wirelessly via Ethernet or 802.11B/G, while providing all the popular original Trilogy standalone lock’s functionality. They provide a quick, easy, economical access system with advanced features & functions, like automatic schedules, event logs and support for 2000 doors and 5000 existing Prox. ID Cards/Badges, but with no wires to run, and no access panels or power supplies to buy or install. At its simplest, it’s one Grade 1 durable wireless lock per door, installed in about an hour, all communicating to a single Gateway (each gateway controls up to 63 locks), networked to any non-dedicated Windows-based PC.
ArchiTech® Series Networx Locks elegantly blend advanced wireless keyless access control convenience for any décor in an infinitely customizable designer locking form factor, concealing advanced Trilogy Networx technology. Future-proof multi technology access ID credentials replace cumbersome keys.
These durable Grade 1 access locks, in a choice of hundreds of trims and finishes, are ideal for every application: educational, hospitals, corporate or multi-dwelling residential settings. ArchiTech® Series Networx Locks can be used to control access a door at a time across a wireless network, or as an integral part of a new or existing enterprise security system spanning a few or thousands of doors. As with all Alarm Lock’s Networx Locks, there’s no need for door-to door program updates or audit trail queries for less manpower, and they feature unprecedented long battery life for easy maintenance. In an emergency, they can be globally locked down via lock, button, keyfob or server, in mere seconds.
The following tools from Alarm Lock are available to simply the process of locating and installing Trilogy Networx and ArchiTech locks:
- AL-NSM: Performs a site survey test of the premises to determine the optimum location of Networx gateways and locks. It is also used to determine the number of gateways required to cover the signal area of the Networx locks you plan to install.
- AL-NSG: A portable battery-powered gateway simulation device that generates continuous Gateway radio signals to a Networx signal meter
- AL-IME-USB: Portable Gateway that provides full Networx Gateway functionality without the need for a network connection. The USB Gateway has a range up up to 100 feet. The emergency lockdown feature is not available when using the USB Gateway.
More Info: www.alarmlock.com
Tim O'Leary
Tim O'Leary is a security consultant, trainer and technician who has also been writing articles on all areas of locksmithing & physical security for many years.
