With advances in modern technology, homeowners are no longer limited to simple mechanical door locks that can be easily compromised. A variety of new and relatively affordable access control systems can help ensure the safety of their family, home, and business.
Access control systemsare electronically controlled and may be operated as stand-alone components, installed as a whole-house computerized unit, or integrated into other existing technologies such as fire and burglar alarms, carbon monoxide detection systems, and climate control, timing, and lighting mechanisms.
Such security systems are typically fully programmable. Entry rights can be customized to limit access to certain individuals at certain times. These systems can also eliminate the concern that physical keys may be lost, stolen, or duplicated. Some models eliminate the fear that passwords may be inadvertently leaked or stolen, or that RF signals may be used to override systems and allow criminals to infiltrate your home.
Some common access control products include electronic and magnetic keypads, readers, and scanners that may be installed on entry doors, garage doors, gates, and at other access points. They may require a card to be swiped, a regularly updated password or code to be entered, or some other form of verification such as voice or biometric recognition.
Biometric lock systems offer an added measure of security involving the use of unique bodily characteristics; they can confirm identity by looking for matches of fingerprints, the retina of the eye, the palm of the hand, or facial configuration. Because of the nature of biometric systems and the extreme difficulty in duplicating fingerprints and other individual biological patterns, it is virtually impossible to gain access to a security system that incorporates such measures.
Many of these systems require a control panel with a battery backup at each location and come equipped with passive infrared (PIR) or other forms of motion detectors. They can also be controlled and monitored remotely using a computer or a nearby location utilizing laptops, PDAs, cell phones, or other specialized controllers.
Access control systems are not only a great investment that can bring you peace of mind, but they can also actually save you a significant amount of money over the long run in reduced insurance premiums while better protecting your property and guaranteeing your family’s safety.
