SPC access control services

Access control is a security technique that can be used to regulate who or what can view or use resources in a secure environment.

Access control is one of the fastest growing sectors in the global physical security industry with a total value of physical security products at factory gate prices being just over £30bn. Access control systems are still more popular than either video surveillance or intruder alarms, and this is forecast to continue.

There are standalone access systems and PC based control systems. Standalone systems may be used to control access on one or many independent doors in a building. Access is gained by using a numeric code, or PIN with a keypad, or by presenting a proximity or magstripe token, depending on which type of reader is fitted. These systems are programmed at each door. Standalone systems are great for smaller sites with a relatively small number of users, token management is simple, and the system can be extended easily as your requirements change.

PC based or 'Networked' access control systems may be used to control one or many doors in a building. Access is gained by using a numeric code, or PIN with a keypad, by presenting a proximity or magstripe. PC based access control offers central control, via a network.

This means that commands given at the PC are sent to each of the doors. A token can be barred from all of the doors instantly. Another benefit of this type of system is flexible control, allowing you to grant different permissions for individuals or groups of users.

Companies and building managers are able to generate reports to see who has entered and exited an access control point and more specifically, when. Many systems allow control of additional buildings via existing LAN/WAN. PC based systems are increasingly being used to control other services within buildings, for example intruder alarms, fire doors, audio and visual displays and even lighting.

PC based systems are great for medium to large sites as they make managing large numbers of doors and users easy. The system can be extended very easily, and advanced features such as event reporting and integration with CCTV and other systems make such a system much more than just a replacement for a bunch of keys.

Access control as a service (ACaaS) is a fast-growing market segment. Using cloud-based solutions removes the need for customers to have their own IT departments to develop and maintain costly servers and infrastructures, so the total cost of ownership should fall.