Access technology

+ Introduction +

I've had a quick look at the technology available to provide more +flexible access control into and within 7VT.

Per our previous discussion, it's worth distinguishing at least four +types of access we might consider:

+ + Motorised. Currently push-panel activated in both directions. +Entryphone provides audio but not video to remote panels on 1st and 2nd floors, +which can (unlock/open?). + + + + +

(I've assumed we won't change the exit-only emergency nature of the +double-doors at the bottom of the main staircase.)

Most of the companies whose websites I've looked at are aimed at either +homeowners or businesses. Some of the business-orientated ones at least +mention small businesses, which is probably the closest we're going to get for +our needs.

Below are summaries of the offerings from a few of the companies I've +looked at. We would not deal directly with any of them, but would need to +contract with a local specialist firm for installation. I presume we've got +someone on the books for maintainance of the current entryphone/door-opener +etc., but we may need a different outfit for a new system.

+ <link href="https://www.paxton-access.com/">Paxton</link> +

Recommended by the team at Augustine United: "the Paxton Net2 system [is] +very popular and something of a market leader".

Two relevant devices: A standard entry-panel and a door-latch.

Both are activated by a proximity card or fob, and both can be installed +for standalone use, with a master card used to +enable access cards, or as part of a network-controlled system for much more sophisticated usage patterns.

+ Staff and visitors are issued with electronic tokens instead of +keys. User tokens can be added to the system in seconds by presenting an enrolment card to the door/entry-panel. + +If someone loses their token, it can be simply barred from the system by presenting a shadow card to a reader. +

The entry-panel version would be the candidate for the front door, +replacing the existing panel.

The standalone system has three components: the entry panel, the +monitor(s) and the controller. I assume multiple monitors can be +used. It's not easy to find prices, but I am pretty confident that the parts +we need should be available for between £1000–2000. Installation would +be at least a person-day, I would guess, so could easily be £500 or more.

Upgrading to the next level, with full (PC and mobile app) software-based control of +token-holders, remote management, etc. would probably be as much again.

I think that only a further upgrade, and replacement of the +door panel, would get us to mobile-as-keycard functionality.