The end user is not the only one who benefits from this technology. From an integrator’s point of view, wireless access control offers many significant advantages over hardwired.
For one thing, it’s easy to install. “We can install a cylindrical or mortise wireless access control lock in about a hour and 15 minutes, including the programming, removal of old hardware and testing,” Miorandi says. “We can get in and out. We don’t have to get up in ceilings and run wire. We are literally saving hours of work. It’s a huge time saver all the way around. We walk in, set it up, test it and leave.”
The ease of installation also allows integrators to move quickly to the next location, maximizing the amount of readers they can install, Piccolo adds.
It costs less to install. “Time and cost to put in a hardwired system is the one area that all integrators have risk in when putting a budget together,” Simmons says. “Then you factor in all the codes for how to hang wires above ceilings. There is a lot of additional cost. It is probably about two-thirds more expensive for hardwired, sometimes even triple.”
It’s safer to install. “Our techs never leave the ground,” Miorandi says.
It helps the integrator look good to the end user. “We deal in aftermarket,” Lamonds says. “A lot of that is we go in, take out what’s there and put something else in. End users are always wondering what we are going to tear up. Wireless is less intrusive and they do like that. Plus it has helped us on our bid costs when compared to a hardwired system.”
Miorandi believes wireless technology gives his company a competitive advantage. “I’m providing a very high-quality, high-tech product to my end users and I am able to do it based on what is best for their building. If I can sell them the latest in technology and even save them some money to boot, it’s a huge benefit. It separates me from the average integrator on the street that may be after profit maximization.
“Plus it helps me save face on the installation end. Whenever you are doing a hardwired system of any kind, there are always those things you just don’t quite anticipate when estimating the project. Even if I eat that cost, it slows down our installation time. It’s not our fault, but when I tell a client we will be out of here in three weeks and it takes four, I lose a little face, quite honestly. With the wireless, we are able to install on the doors, physically see the doors at all times and can better estimate time and make everyone a lot happier."