Door entry security systems without keys

Control systems for door security

Door entry systems cover a wide range of access control systems, and over the past few years, technological advances have made them far more sophisticated and much cheaper than they once were.
Developments in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and smartphone technology, as well as the increased sophistication of detection devices such as biometric readers, have opened the door entry world.
Access control systems are no longer the preserve of wealthy businesses; the cost and convenience of wireless door entry controls have made them widely available for domestic home users.
All you need today is a smartphone and a high-quality door entry system installed by a professional engineer: you may never need a door key again.
The basics are simple enough. Access control systems allow authorised users safe and secure access to various parts of a building while keeping unwanted visitors or intruders out of restricted areas.
Devices to accomplish this can range from electronic fobs that secure a single door to systems with multiple buildings.

Planning a door entry system

It is wise to plan your door entry system ahead of installation. An access control system can be used for much more than keeping unauthorised persons out; it can track where and when people come and go and how long people spend in particular areas when pre-set entry numbers have been reached. One of the first things to consider is how secure the door entry system needs to be. A basic system could be just a keypad and swipe card, but high-security networks can include all kinds of identity checks, even voice recognition, fingerprint or eye retina checks. Another planning consideration is the type and extent of the network you plan to connect to your access control system – CCTV and monitored alarms are just two examples.

Check the size of the security system

When you have determined the primary function of the scheme and what connections you intend, you will need to think about the areas you wish to secure, most notably the number of doors with restricted access. A small system could mean a simple electronic keypad door lock, but if you plan something more elaborate, choose one that gives scope for natural expansion later.
Once you have determined the number of security doors required, you will need to collect information on each access point, the type of door, the lock mechanism and the access control system that will operate it. Not every door needs an electronic security system. People with electronic access to a secure area may then be free to use standard keys for doors inside the room. There are many issues to consider when designing larger-scale door entry systems, and they will include any or all of the following:

   The method for authorised users to identify themselves.
   A way for all users to exit a controlled area freely.
   Deciding on the locking devices to secure the doors.
   A control system to manage links between entry and exit devices.
   Any additional requirements such as tracking, time-based systems and backup devices.

A clear distinction must be made here between accessible areas and controlled exits. By law, access control systems must be configured to allow people to exit during a power cut. People should be able to leave freely in the event of a fire.

Door entry authorisation devices

There are a myriad of secure door entry authorisation devices on the market and ways in which to operate them. Some examples are key fobs, proximity readers, key switches, keypads and biometric readers.

Stand-alone locks are single-door access control systems easily installed and operational in minutes, although they are not connected to a broader network. They are usually operated by a keypad or swipe card.
SH4 Proximity readers have gained significant popularity in recent years. Cards can trigger door opening from some distance away. They are also cheap and reliable; lost cards can be deactivated and replaced by new ones.
Key switches are useful for networks where people's movement needs to be audited. A physical key can be used to activate the lock, but data can be stored with the use of the key.
SH4 Biometric systems have become increasingly sophisticated and more reliable in recent years. Physical characteristics of the authorised users (fingerprint, handprint, even eye colour) can be logged into the system and used to allow or restrict access.

Other door entry systems can allow the user to specify the times when doors lock and unlock, check the scheme's usage and produce detailed reports, create blueprint layouts, and even change permissions on different doors at the touch of a smartphone screen. No matter what system is used, there must be a way to get out in an emergency. Examples of free pass exits include push-to-exit buttons or bars, motion detectors and break-glass modules. Secure systems often have a battery backup in the event of a power failure.

Call in the door entry experts

Business users should take the time to choose an expert to design, install and maintain a door entry security system. Crown Securities (UK) is big enough to offer the best products yet small enough to respond to the individual needs of every customer. Experts at Crown Securities can walk you through the design process to ensure the perfect security solution for your needs at a price you can afford. Arriving at an accurate price estimate is always tricky as much depends on the individual requirements and the components used, but you can be assured that our estimates and advice come free of charge. For help on the design, installation and maintenance of security door entry systems to your home or business premises, call 01270 666366anytime.

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