How to layout an access control system

Written by: Eisla Sebastian

Access control systems are used to control who is able to enter or leave a business or to control what areas of a building people are able to access. Because of the complexity of access control systems, it is important that they are laid out and installed by someone with electrical expertise. If you're shopping for a way to control who gets in and out of your business, you'll need to think about how to layout an access control system so that it meets your business' security needs.

Laying out an access control system

Learning how to layout an access control system is the first step you need to take when overhauling your security system. The layout of your access controls will need to focus on protecting the key external entry points into your business, as well as protecting sensitive areas of your business. For example, you may want to use a simple key entry for external entries to your showroom and then have an electronic lock that controls access to employee-only zones of your operation.

Choosing a qualified dealer is essential to determining the right layout for your access control system. Good dealers will want to visit your business to review your setup, determine the best locations for security points, and create a detailed estimate of the requirements and costs.

Picking out an access control system

After learning how to layout an access control system, your next step is to pick out the access control systems that make the most sense for your business. Every access control system has three basic components: a control point, control point operation devices, and control point operators. The control point is the location in your building where a control device is installed, such as a door, an elevator or a turnstile. Control point operation devices include keypads, padlocks, card readers, and biometric scanners – the devices that control the locking and unlocking of the control point. The operators are the keys, codes, security cards, or biometric characteristics that are used to unlock the system.

The type of access control system you select will depend on the security level of the area being protected and your budget.

Installation of your access control system

Electronic access control systems require the professional services of an electrician who is familiar with the wiring and programming of the access control system that you have purchased. Usually the manufacturer or retailer of the access control system will either have an in-house staff of professionals who are qualified to install your system, or they will have a list of preferred installers for you to choose between. Whichever route you choose, make sure your get the full price, including installation, up front.

When you select an installer, you'll need to tell them how to lay out the access control system for your company. This will usually involve identifying access control points and letting them know what types of entry control devices you want to use. They'll also need to know what types of coding you want to use for your control devices. They'll take this information and set up your system, including the wiring and programming necessary to get started.

To find the best access control system for your business you need to request price quotes and product descriptions from multiple vendors – and BuyerZone can help. Our free request for access control price quotes service will match you to multiple dealers in your area who will compete for your business.