Access control and management system – what is it?
ACS (access control and management system) is a set of technical means aimed at controlling the entrance and exit to the premises in order to ensure safety and regulate visits to a certain object.
Using the identification system (card, key fob, fingerprints, universal code, etc.), the program individually calculates for everyone his work schedule, time of arrival and departure, time spent on breaks and lunch.
The main tasks of control systems are:
- imposing entry restrictions;
- admission to the premises for a certain circle of persons;
- control of the working day;
- security;
- payroll calculation, when integrated with the accounting system.
ACS advantages
Safety. The system allows you to configure the access time for each employee individually. An outsider who is not included in the list of admitted persons will not be able to enter the office.
Working time control. The access control system allows you to set and control the time of the presence and absence of an employee at the workplace. In addition, the manager will be able to take into account all the hours worked, the amount of time spent on breaks and lunch, individually for each employee.
Profitability. Despite the number of functions, the system does not require large energy consumption, while it has a long service life, moreover, it helps to save on additional protection.
What types of access control systems are
Despite the rather narrow focus, the installation and use of ACS are divided into several types. Distinctive features of various types are their autonomous ability, principle of operation and equipment.
As a rule, access control and management systems have the following components:
- blocking device (electromagnetic locks, doors, turnstiles);
- identifier (card, keychain, fingerprint);
- controller – a mechanism that determines the throughput of an identifier;
- reader – a device that determines the identifier code and transmits it to the controller.
Software and any additional equipment can also be included in the system, depending on its type.
Traditionally, it is customary to distinguish three groups of systems:
Autonomous systems. Such a device is an alternative to door locks, usually in commercial premises. The system enters the codes of the access cards that are allowed to enter. If the card and the programmed code in the system match, the lock is unlocked. These systems do not require a connection to a computer and have a minimal set of functions.
Network. Such ACS have more possibilities: they can configure access to the premises on a schedule, control the work schedule and integrate with video cameras, security and fire protection systems. Networked systems are connected to a computer and controlled remotely.
Biometric systems. These access control and management systems have an individual focus: a unique code for each employee. Fingerprints or a drawing of the iris of the eye are entered into the program. This approach provides a higher level of security and provides more complete information for each employee of each department. With the help of a biometric system, it is possible to keep a log of visits, control the time spent by an employee on breaks and business trips.