Access control systems are electronically and/or mechanically controlled security systems that are specifically programmed to let barriers and gates allow or deny access to users, following a predefined set of rules. These set of rules are programmed according to the requirements of the business owner. These could include who can access the system, where can the access be allowed, who is not allowed to access the system, and other such rules. There are many components in an access control system that are covered in this article.

Following are the components of an access control system:

Control Points

An access control point can be a parking gate, turnstile, elevator, door, or any other barrier where you can set rules to allow or deny access. Doors are the most common access points that are usually controlled by electronic locks. Instead of requiring a human operator to control such locks, most access control systems these days use an electronic reader in order to determine the level of accessibility that is to be allowed.

Credentials

A credential is a tangible or physical, a facet of a person’s physical being, or a piece of knowledge that allows an individual to gain access to a controlled area. Usually, credentials can be a PIN, an access token, a biometric feature, or a combination of these. Key fob and access cards are common examples of a typical credential.

Types of Readers

A variety of readers can be used in an access control system. These can be biometric (to scan hand or finger prints), or they can read keycards, or they can also be keypads that require a key code. IP readers are also being used in advanced access control systems. These readers are usually PoE enabled, which means they can be easily integrated with battery backups. So they are suitable for control systems that are required to operate 24/7 and work properly in the event of a power failure. One thing to note here is that control readers don’t usually make the decision, instead they pass the information to a control panel in order for it to verify the proper access level.

Control Panels

Access control systems are usually set up with a hub and spoke design. Readers are set as the spokes and the access control panel is set as the hub. Readers use RS485 serial connections to communicate with control panel. IP enabled systems are also being designed these days. These systems use advanced computer software and standard networks on a host computer to verify and grant entry at access points.

Control System Integration

Apart from the components mentioned above, access control systems can be easily integrated with a wide range of security alarm systems. Integrating access control system to a security alarm system extends its coverage which helps prevent tampering. Apart from this, access control equipment can also be integrated with fire alarm systems, allowing access points to be unlocked for quick evacuation in case of a fire emergency.