You need to do a lot in order to keep your property safe and secure. However, a door access control system can simplify this process for you. The right access control system enhances security and adds convenience for you, your tenants, and your staff.

Prior to installing the door access control system, you should consider the specific needs of your property and evaluation the available options. Further in this post, we will learn how doors access control system work. However, before that let’s understand what a door access system is.

What is a door access control system?

It is a method of controlling who can open the door. The door access control system can be anywhere on the premises including the main entrance, service or back doors, individual units, and more. You can install a door access control system at one or multiple doors if you want only authorized people can enter from there.

If you manage or own a multifamily building or commercial property, a door access control system can keep your tenants, staff, and all the assets safe. The sole aim of the door access control system is to keep the doors locked for security while providing a simple way for authorized people to access the spaces.

How do these door access control systems work?

The functionality of door access control systems varies depending on the type of system you choose. Opting for an electronic or mechatronic door access system can be a step towards future-proofing your property, providing a robust security solution. While the details of how door access control systems operate may vary between different systems, there are common foundational components present in almost every electronic door access system.

There are four main components of a door access control system which are:

Access control panel

The access control panel, also known as the access control door controller, serves as the central processing unit of the system. It can be in the form of a physical device or cloud-based software that allows wireless management from anywhere with internet access.

The control panel stores and manages tenant and staff information that is configured by the property owner or manager. When access credentials provided by a user match the information stored in the database, the control panel sends a signal to the door to open, granting access.

Access credentials

These are linked to every user and contain information regarding each person’s access permissions. You can find them in one or more forms depending on the level of security your want for your buildings.

Common types of door access credentials include:

  • Key cards/fobs
  • Mobile app
  • Biometric

Credential reader

When a person scans their credentials, the credential reader receives an encrypted tag number. This information is then transmitted to the control panel by the door access card reader system for decoding. The control panel compares the decrypted tag number with the information stored in the system database. If there is a match, the system signals the door release to activate, granting access.

Door release mechanism

Once the credentials are authenticated by the control panel, it automatically triggers the door to unlock using an electronic or magnetic door lock release mechanism.

Types of door access control Systems

There are many types of doors and entry systems. They can be as simple as a traditional lock and key or as technologically advanced as a cloud-based intercom system. The type of door access control system you choose mainly depends on your building’s needs and infrastructure.

Some most common types of doors access control systems are:

Manual

Manual access control, commonly fulfilled by individuals such as doormen or security guards, entails human supervision of door entry activities. The assigned personnel verifies the credentials of individuals seeking access before granting them entry.

Mechanical

The conventional lock and key approach is undoubtedly the most prevalent mechanical door access method. However, relying solely on keys can pose security risks, as keys can be easily stolen or misplaced, potentially jeopardizing the security of your building.

Electronic

Electronic access control systems typically consist of an electronic controller and can be implemented using various forms such as key fob systems, keypads, or intercoms. In today’s era of the Internet of Things (IoT), which powers our smartphones, TVs, watches, and even some cars, opting for a mobile door access control system is considered a prudent choice due to its widespread adoption and convenience.

Mechatronic

Mechatronic door access control is employed in high-security commercial buildings. These systems utilize mechanical and electronic access control methods, requiring multiple steps for door entry. For instance, to unlock the door using a key, one must first scan a key card or key fob as an additional layer of security.

This is it for this blog. We hope that this post has provided you with enough insights into door access control systems. If you have any more doubts, feel free to get in touch with the experts right away.