Security Sales & Integration March 2023 - 14

ACCESS
ENTRY/EXIT
IDENTIFICATION LOCKS
7 Top Access Control Trends to Target
By Steve Rowlands
▶ Here is a discussion of the market's current
trends and most sought-after features.
Wireless Access - The adoption of
wireless technologies such as Bluetooth,
Z-Wave and Zigbee in conjunction with
smartphones and smartwatches are creating
opportunities for new innovations.
These smart technologies continue to
grow, allowing manufacturers to push the
boundaries of what is achievable when it
comes to access control and building automation.
With wireless technologies integrating
with access products, it enables
for wireless solutions to operate in a more
reliable, user-friendly and intuitive way.
Smart Credentials - These are ever
more widely accepted across all markets
as the technology becomes more robust.
Mobile phone credentials can replace traditional
cards and key fobs, so users won't
have to carry around additional equipment
to navigate their premises. They are
efficient and cost-effective as facility managers
can issue the credentials to users at
the touch of a button. Smart credentials
are particularly useful when there is a
need for frequent temporary access. One
familiar example is Airbnb, where smartphone
credentials offer great flexibility to
access rental properties.
Intercom Door Entry - With video
door entry systems, site managers can
verify a visitor or an employee's identity
before granting access. Intercom door entry
can be further enhanced with a door
entry app, and again, this is related to
wireless technology. There are usually two
ways to answer a call for entry request.
Users either go to the actual monitor to
answer or they can use a third-party application
for the remote answer function.
However, not all third-party apps are reliable
or will integrate smoothly with any
door entry monitors.
Wireless Door Handles - The smart
wireless door handle is another great
example of access control technology
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Smart credentials are useful when there
is a need for frequent temporary access.
evolvement. Door handles can be connected
to an access control system, maximizing
the functionality and efficiency of
them. For example, PaxLock Pro wireless,
electronic battery-powered door handles
can be used as a standalone security device
or with Paxton's Net2 and Paxton10
access control systems. The energy-efficient
unit enters a sleep mode when not
in use, and built-in capacitive sensors
wake it when operation is required and a
user's token is presented.
Mobile phone credentials
can replace traditional
cards and key fobs, so
users won't have to
carry around additional
equipment to navigate
their premises.
Remote Management - This is no
longer an afterthought when designing
systems but has become a more commonly
discussed requirement. More access
control systems are utilizing browser interfaces
with less hardware onsite so they
can be accessed on any device anywhere
Security Sales & Integration MARCH 2023
without the need to install software. The
ability to manage a site or multiple sites
is not only convenient but can also make
more efficient use of personnel administering
the system. This can also potentially
reduce the need to travel to sites,
which can save time and money. Features
include granting or revoking access or the
ability to lockdown a site at the touch of
a button, allowing system administrators
to quickly respond in case of an emergency.
Also, with more people now working
from home, more administration is being
carried out remotely. By utilizing remote
access and smart credentials, users can administer
and allow access to users without
the need to be onsite with just a browser
and an Internet connection.
Access System Integrations - Being
able to manage appliances automatically
through an access control system can help
enhance energy efficiency. The prices of
gas and electricity are higher than before.
People are looking for ways to lower energy
usage and access control systems can
be a useful tool. For instance, lights and
appliances can be connected to an access
control system to ensure that they are not
left on when a building is unoccupied.
Utilizing features within a system, site
managers can set " when the last person
leaves " as a trigger, and " turn off the lights "
can be set as an action, therefore reducing
energy usage of lights left on in error.
Subscription-Based Services - These
are an increasingly popular method of
providing a product and is becoming
widely accepted as the norm going forward,
especially for any Cloud-based
products. It is another way of adding convenience
to a system. Having the choice
to opt in or out will allow users to only
spend on what they need, maximizing a
cost-effective approach.
STEVE ROWLANDS is Divisional Director
of Product Management at Paxton.
securitysales.com
COURTESY PAXTON
http://www.securitysales.com
Security Sales & Integration March 2023

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