Long gone are the days where a simple lock and key would suffice in order to protect high value items and restrict unwanted visitors. Over the years, door access control systems have continued to change and evolve, getting more and more effective in their bid to restrict entry into sensitive areas.
When it comes to electronic access control systems, this was a method widely used in the 1960s.
With this practice, the need for a physical set of keys was a thing of the past, eliminating concerns about misplaced keys and lock-picks.
Key Pads and Card Readers
One of the initial advancements when it comes to door entry systems was the keypad. This was used in conjunction with a key code, or a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The key code, if it matched the one programmed into the key pad system, would grant entry access to the user.
While it eliminated the use of a lock and key, there was still the matter of remembering the key code, and wasn’t nearly as effective in securing an area as later advancements in security technology.
Alongside key pads were card readers, which made use of key cards in order to grant door access to an individual.
Using something called Wiegand technology, these would read a magnetic strip on the card in order to grant access. The cards would either have to be swiped through a slot on the reader, or inserted into a slot. Using RFID technology, proximity readers could read information on the surface of the card from a certain distance. While both key pads and card readers share the disadvantage of a key code or card being susceptible to forgetfulness, they are commonly in use today.
Further Evolution
Much advancement in security technology have been made since the initial stages, enhancing the features of security systems.
Non-intelligent, semi-intelligent, and intelligent readers all operate with the capacity to unlock doors remotely.
Intelligent readers are programmed to identify and authorize users and grant entry, while semi-intelligent readers require a code in order to be authorized to release a lock.
Biometrics has significantly upped the game, affordable and accessible enough for those needing security solutions to invest in fingerprint scanners, retinal recognition, voice recognition, etc.
There is no dearth of reliable security solutions to protect your high value possessions from theft and vandalism. At Stor-Guard, we provide secure door entry systems in Washington, Idaho, and other U.S. states. Our aim is to aid you in securing your self-storage facility to the best of our ability. Contact us for any queries about our vast range of security products.