Standalone Access Control with Remote Monitoring

Standalone Access Control normally refers to a keypad or card reader (or biometric reader) that is pre-programmed and connected to power only (no network) to control access to a property.  These devices are programmed through the keypad or connected to a terminal locally to program.  They are fairly low cost and work well.

What if you want to monitor the device or update remotely?  In that case you need to connect to a network to access the device for monitoring, control and programming.  Typically, these devices are powered and connected via PoE ethernet port on the rear of the device and connect to a server for management.  This provides real-time monitoring and control with the added benefit of alarms for tamper detection, quick access removal, lockdown/open access in case of emergency, or verification via co-located cameras.

What if there is no local cabled network to connect to?  There are Wi-Fi devices which are limited by distance.  Some devices are 4G by design and can send messages via SMS but generally are standalone.  We also provide a solution that is IP based and uses a 4G router to connect to a cloud server where full monitoring and control can be achieved through a SmartPhone App or Web browser.  No local network required.

Our 4G Capable Cable Free system eliminates the requirement for a local LAN network to connect the device.  Our solution also works across multiple sites as each site connects to the cloud server account which practically joins all devices to the one service.  The same service works with video and audio intercom systems, access control systems, and apartment / business / home  touch screen video monitors and phones.  We also add CCTV cameras to the same system for remote monitoring and recoding.

Typical applications:

Farm Gate for visitors and employees / contractors – A video intercom with keypad that allows visitors to call an office or SmartPhone App for access and employees / contractors to use a personal PIN for access.  The Property Manager assigns PIN Codes to personnel and can also assign PIN codes to temporary visitors with time and date control.  Access can be limited by date and time e.g. public holidays, weekends, unattended site etc.  All access is logged and snapshots saved to the cloud server for ongoing audit.

This system uses an outdoor 4G router to connect to the mobile network internet for connection and management.

AirBNB / Stayz, Shortstay Accommodation sites – A keypad is installed at the main entry and connected to an outdoor 4G router.  The keypad allows entry via PIN code to tenants based on booking time / date.  When a booking is received the manager setups up a temporary PIN code / QR code for the tenant and registers their name, dates of stay, access time and finish time.  The PIN Code / QR code is then emailed or texted to the tenant.  When the tenant arrives they hold up the QR code from their phone to the camera on the keypad or enter the 8 digit code.  Access is granted for the dates and times entered into the system and access is logged at the server.  The keypad could be replaced by a video intercom with keypad for the same purpose. The added benefit is that photos of visitors would also be logged but the QR code will usually not work in this situation (only PIN code).  Additional cameras could be added at entry and inside to record and monitor the site using the same 4G router for connection (different App).

This system allows for many properties to be managed by the same account and is a way to standardise management of properties across your portfolio.

Business – The same keypad / Intercom can be used connected to a local network.  An external gate or door (warehouse) may not have network available so using a 4G router to connect to the cloud server via mobile integrates the same facility, personnel, PIN codes, RFID fobs / cards, access control restrictions to the standalone device.  The internet becomes the network and all devices work together as the same facility.  You can even add remote sites to the same facility with full integration of access rules. Note that access rules can be defined for each device ensuring only those with access permission can enter the area managed by the access control device.

Attendance records are available through the cloud sever system.  If you run a business and want to know when personnel were on site you can check attendance records collected by the system.

Homes or Apartments / Units – These systems work well where there is no connection to the entry point.  No need to dig up the driveway or garden when you can connect with 4G via our outdoor managed 4G router.  If you want an indoor monitor you can connect it to your local Wi-Fi router and it will connect to the cloud server for calls from the 4G connected intercom.  If you have many apartments, no problem.  Each apartment connects via their Wi-Fi or a supplied 4G router for those without internet.  The facility is managed through a web browser and there is also an App version for the Property Manager and Administrator.