Smartair locks, Update On Card (UOC) readers, a portable programmer and ARX access control technology supplied by Abloy (UK) have been integrated to provide an intelligent and cost-effective access control system at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Specified and installed by Rochester-based NT Security, the integrated package controls and monitors staff, student and visitor access through interior and perimeter doors at the Huntersdale administration building in Egham, Surrey.
Royal Holloway’s head of accommodation services, Gary Pearson, told SMT Online: “After reviewing building usage, security and safety, we brought in electronic security systems company NT Security to enhance access control at the Huntersdale building.”
Off-line and online access control
NT Security specified a combination of off-line and higher cost online access control equipment to meet the client’s security, safety and budgetary requirements. A total of 49 battery-operated Smartair locks were installed on internal doors, which Royal Holloway security personnel control and update using three UOC Smartair readers and a portable programmer.
Access through the perimeter doors is controlled by an ARX system, a sophisticated on-line access control package that NT linked to the University’s main IT system such that any changes in access rights can be implemented both swiftly and easily.
Each Smartair-controlled door has its own battery power source and built-in reader. The latter identifies the user’s card, interrogates their access rights and then either opens the lock or doesn’t as appropriate.
Automatic updates for cards
Security staff do not have to visit each lock to update access rights. Smartair employs the latest contactless technology, and all cards are automatically updated with the latest access information when the updater is linked to the IT network. The system information is automatically updated in each lock when an updated card is presented to that door’s reader.
Providing a user has suitable access rights, all they need to do to gain access rights through a Smartair-controlled door is present their RFID card in the proximity of the reader and lock. This contactless method of access control not only helps maintain the easy flow of traffic, but it’s also extremely cost-effective as there’s no operational wear and tear on the cards.
Centrally-managed door security
Door security is managed centrally from a PC which creates, stores and modifies user access information. Door usage may be monitored by security staff using Smartair’s powerful audit trail facility, which can not only report which doors were opened by what cards but also detail all the doors opened by each card.
In addition, the innovative use of Abloy (UK) security solutions is also helping to provide a complete security package for Devon and Somerset Fire Service.
The organisation’s headquarters in Exeter has recently had a new wing added and long-term security partner, locally-based Guardian Security (South West) Ltd, was called into provide a complete solution encompassing both access control and locking.
Alongside the access control system, Guardian supplied and fitted ten Abloy EL560 and three EL460 solenoid locks which conform to all relevant fire regulations and offer single action exit from inside in the event of an emergency or power failure. The installation also includes concealed door loops.
However, arguably the most unusual aspect of the installation was the fitting of an EL648 electric lock with motorised hook bolt on the new wing’s sliding front doors. This was required as these doors need to be locked and unlocked on a timer – many magnet-based products are not appropriate for use with this type of door. The EL648 product is fitted with an electric strike, control unit and integrated door contact, preventing the bolt being thrown when the door is open (thus stopping damage or abuse of the lock).
Speaking to SMT Online about the installation, Sean Monger of Guardian Security (South West) commented: “This installation showed how the Abloy range of products can ideally meet varied security needs by combining an access control system with solenoid locking. Finding a suitable solution for the sliding doors was potentially a tricky task, but the EL648 is eminently suitable for the task of ensuring that the doors are locked and unlocked automatically at the correct times.”
Everything you need to know about… Abloy (UK)
When it comes to access control solutions, Abloy (UK) – previously known as Abloy Security – is the brand of choice for many security professionals, installers, OEMs and specifiers. The company is a leading supplier of high security locking and access control solutions for a broad cross-section of industry sectors including the utilities, energy, banking and finance, Government, defence, transportation and high-tech manufacturing.
The extensive product offering includes mechanical and electromechanical locking devices, systems and door control products from Abloy and Assa, effeff electric strikes, as well as padlock systems from Yale, Chubb and Union.
Abloy (UK) is one of the six selling units of Assa Abloy (UK) which is owned by the $3 billion US turnover Assa Abloy Group of companies.
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