Product category:
Access Control, Door Entry Systems
News Release from: BPT Security Systems (UK) | Subject: Impro proximity range
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 02 May 2005
Advice for specyfying access control
BPT Security provides invaluable advice for specyfying access control.
There was a time when specifying an access control system was quite straightforward - mainly because there weren't many options available But with the introduction of networked systems that incorporate a huge variety of functions and add ons, specification can be a minefield
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 17 Dec 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories
Proximity access control cuts costs
Impro proximity access control does more than open doors!
A star turn from BPT
BPT products make 'perfect properties' TV show.
Access control systems specialist and supplier of the Impro proximity range, BPT Security Systems (UK) .
has a few basic guidelines to help.
As with any security system, states BPT, the first port of call is a risk assessment of the site.
Further reading
Luxury flats refurbished with BPT equipment
Luxury flats refurbished with BPT equipment at less cost and half the time.
Tiltable colou monitor for entry system
New from BPT Security Systems (UK) - a specialist in door entry and access control - is the Ophera monitor, combining the ultimate in modern design with functionality.
BPT launches Impro Supagate
Impro SupaGate is a highly cost-effective and convenient pedestrian and vehicular proximity access control system for domestic and small commercial premises.
Clearly establish what the risks are and look at all the options for minimising them.
If access control is an appropriate solution, then look at the level of security required (a keypad, for example, is not ideal for higher risks) and precisely where it is needed most.
At this stage you should also look at the wider picture to see if it would be beneficial to integrate the access control with any other control systems, such as building management, monitoring refrigeration plant, UPS failure, etc The Impro IXP 400 from BPT, for example, can be integrated with other systems to turn electricity on/off to specific appliances or areas.
Moving on to the actual equipment, BPT states there are a number of major issues the specifier needs to address.
Top of this list has to be the safety/inherent security of the hardware and software.
Is the hardware environmentally tested and tested for EMC? Is the software virus and Trojan proof? Does the equipment support total off-line operation, i.e if the network goes down will the system keep working and to what degree? Does the system have a distributed architecture? The specifier also has to look at the compatibility of the equipment, to see if the hardware and software support interfaces to third party equipment and systems, including CCTV and other manufacturers readers and cards, as well as checking if it is SQL compliant for use with third party databases e.g linking to human resource databases.
This naturally leads on to the question of flexibility.
Just how flexible does the system need to be and does the equipment match up to this? Does the equipment range support modules for harsh environments, for example, and RF, IR and extended range readers? Can the hardware communicate across LANs and WANs and does it support multiple transmission methods? The cost aspect is clearly vital to any installation, but don't forget to take into account how the system software is run - is it by a licence indefinitely or is their an annual rent? This could come back to bite you! Once these issues have been addressed, BPT recommends a close examination of the equipment features, to see if they provide an added benefit the customer and the site.
But don't be fooled into buying a more expensive piece of kit because it has loads of added features if it's unlikely the customer will ever require these.
Last, but certainly not least, BPT Security stresses the need to use a reputable manufacturer/supplier, so you can be sure of support.
Check to see if they have a credible support infrastructure, what their response time is and if they carry good levels of stock, including older equipment parts.
Also ask if they offer training, literature, technical drawing and quotation services.
All of this support is invaluable for you and your customer for a smooth installation and long term operation.
BPT Security is the exclusive UK supplier of the Impro IXP rangeX of proximity access control systems, which include: IXP400 software suite for up to 3,000 doors and and 160,000 users, which can fully integrate with CCTV control; IXP200 which supports up to 2,000 tags operating 16 doors or 15 doors and up to four lifts; and IXP121 for small installations that still require a system, rather than a single door readerwith vehicular access, or multiple small sites that need to be controlled from one location.
All systems can be used for industrial, commercial and residential applications.
• BPT Security Systems (UK): contact details and other news
• Email this article to a colleague
• Register for the free Buildingtalk email newsletter
• Buildingtalk Home Page
Search the Pro-Talk network of sites
