Which Access Control System?

Which Access Control System is right for my property? When specifying an Access Control System for schools, office blocks, local authorities, commercial enterprises and residential properties there are several factors that we consider to ensure that the most suitable hardware and software is recommended. Choosing the right system: 1. How Many Users? 2. How Many Doors? 3. How Many User Groups, and what type of user groups? 5. Does the Access System need to be integrated with other security, safety and/or HR systems? How Many Users? If you have a small number of doors, and a small number of users, then we would firstly consider the available stand alone access control systems . Either Paxton Compact , suitable for internal doors, or Paxton Switch2 for external doors. The equipment required for stand alone access control systems is less expensive than Networked/ PC Based systems , however the administration of user permissions can be more cumbersome. For properties with a small number of users, the cost saving of a stand alone system may outweigh the more user friendly administration of a networked one. How Many Doors? If you have a large number of doors, then a networked/ PC Based system like Paxton Net2 is definitely worth considering. Although the Net2 control units are more expensive than those use on a Switch2 or Compact system, the PC based management software allows for much more efficient administration of user permissions. How Many User Groups? When we talk about administration of user permissions, we mean setting who is allowed through which door. With a PC based system you can also set specific times that individuals, or groups are allowed through particular doors. This can be used to allow employees access only during their working hours, or allowing cleaners access during specific times. If you only have one user group, for example; Staff, and all staff are allowed to access certain doors all the time, or not at all, then a stand alone system is an appropriate solution. However, if you have several user groups e.g Office Staff, Warehouse Staff, Management and Cleaners, then a PC Based/ Networked System like Paxton Net2 would be a much more efficient choice. The As an example of how you might manage these groups on Net2 software. Management could be given permission to access all doors at all times. Warehouse Staff could be granted access to the warehouse doors from 9am-5.00pm Monday to Friday, Office staff could be granted access to the office doors from 8.00am until 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, and the cleaners could be granted access to all doors from 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Monday to Friday. Net2 will allow you to create as many user groups as you need, or you can simple manage user permissions at an individual level. As another user group you may have Visitors. To incorporate visitors into your access control system you will usually need to integrate an intercom or video entry system. (See Net2 Entry for a networkable solution that operates within Paxtons Net2 Software). Does The Access Control System need to be integrated with other security, saftey and/or HR Systems? If the answer to the above is Yes, then you almost certainly require a PC Based Access Control System. You can link electronic locks to Fire Alarm Systems, and this is an option if you have a small number of doors, however for a fully integrated Access System, Net2 would be the most suitable choice. As well as linking with other security systems like CCTV, Fire and Intruder, Net2 can link with your HR systems through various 3rd Party Time and Attendance software. For more information on the Access Control Systems that we offer please click here, or if you would like to discuss your requirements for an Access Control System please call Lewis or Chris on 0151 495 5740.

For more information on Which Access Control System? talk to Keytrak Lock and Safe Company