Entry Control’s Expanding Role in the Connected Environment
The traditional push-to-speak entry control has been around for years, but with cellular and IP technology becoming so widespread, entry controls are playing an increasingly larger role in a building’s security and connected environment.
The world of entry control is evolving with technology and changing user behavior. Buildings such as elementary schools that didn’t traditionally spend much money or time developing entry control systems are now looking to the security integrator to come up with a plan for an effective and efficient entry control system. “There is a growing awareness for the need of controlling access into premises,” says Samuel Shanes, CEO of Talkaphone, Niles, Ill. “Whether it is a dormitory or entrance to a business or an equipment closet, you have to know who and what is going in.”
That need for higher quality video at doorways is driving the market for IP video door stations, says Bruce Stewart, business development manager, access control, Axis Communications Inc., Chelmsford, Mass. “IP video door stations can easily replace an older analog solution or black-and-white camera.” This technology, says Stewart, allows for integration into the broader connected environment. “We are seeing Axis video door stations being integrated into enterprise solutions with video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection systems and IP telephony or VMS for a fully controlled and managed system.”