It is equally important to choose
IP access control hardware from manufacturers who openly offer their API for easy integration to various access control software. An open-architecture IP access
control system can even provide customers with the ability to keep their existing serial-connected devices and phase out the technology over time or as more budget becomes available. So instead of a ‘rip-and-replace’ scenario, customers can take the more cost- efficient approach of ‘cap-and-grow’.
Existing investments Customers who are not looking to throw out their existing investments or who might not have the budget for a complete overhaul tend to consider two options. The first option consists of using network adapters to convert their existing serial-devices to IP. However, adding network adapters incur additional costs and are not always easy to install. A better approach to preserving
existing investments while moving to IP access control is facilitated by using a third-party controller like the Synergis Master Controller from Genetec. This intelligent IP controller provides
greater flexibility and functionality within any access control deployment by offering native support of widely deployed and non-proprietary security modules from leading access control hardware vendors. Using this controller, customers can
also centrally manage their existing or future hardwired readers including I/O door interface modules with proprietary serial connection, IP door controllers and wireless/PoE locks from the same client software. The Synergis Master Controller
essentially increases the lifespan of existing devices and protects future investments. It shifts the power back to the customer, giving them more freedom of choice, and ensuring they never have to face a rip-and-replace scenario again. While some of the benefits of moving
to open IP access control were touched upon earlier, there is still so much more customer can gain from a modernised installation. Understanding how far you
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can take your IP access control system is further explained through the following advantages. Newer network-enabled door
hardware like wireless and PoE (Power- over-Ethernet) locks are becoming an attractive option for both new and existing access control installations. Unlike older serial-connected access
control systems where four cables, or more, had to be pulled back to a central location, customers can pull a single CAT-5 or CAT-6 cable to the door, install a PoE controller, and then locally wire all the door accessories without having to go back to an electrical closet. In cases where wiring may be cost-
prohibitive or the door is in a difficult to reach location, wireless locks take advantage of an organisation’s wireless network to communicate all information back to the host. Essentially, IP-enabled door hardware
lessen installation and labour costs when new devices are added to the system.
A broader view of security With an open IP access control system, the freedom to integrate is not only limited to devices, but includes other important security software as well. Customers might start with an IP access control solution and eventually unify other systems such as video surveillance, intercom, intrusion detection and more. Within a unified platform, operators
are able to receive access control alarms such as ‘access denied’ events, alongside the associated video to make faster decisions. At the same time, they can use an
intercom integration to address the visitor or cardholder, and handle the situation within seconds. More common tasks such as monitoring, reporting, configuration, setting permissions are consolidated under the same platform, improving day-to-day efficiencies.
Advanced functionality Moving to a newer IP access control system will open customers up to functionality that will simplify how they secure buildings. Although basic functionalities were mentioned as examples earlier, other
features such as pulling daily activity reports, synchronising your cardholders with Microsoft Active Directory, using mobile tablets and phones to handle alarms, among more, are also part the enhanced user experience. By the same token, health monitoring
features also help customers ensure their system is running at peak efficiency. IP access control offers real-time alerts on hardware failure, and provides the ability to schedule regular tests and reports on equipment performance. Customers can also schedule software
upgrades to make sure they are befitting from latest version enhancements and features. This maintenance functionality helps them stay one step ahead of unnecessary failures, which may lead to security breaches. With so many advancements in
the access control industry in the last decade, the timing to move to IP could not be any better. Today’s open- architecture IP access control systems allow customers the ability to take a more cost-efficient phased approach towards newer technology. Gone are the days of tossing out
legacy equipment and cutting losses. Instead, customers can keep serial devices, add newer door technology over time and rest assured that their new IP- based access control system will support their desires for the latest functionality and hardware, well into the future.
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NETCOMMS europe Volume IV Issue 3 2014 35
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