Different types of door entry systems

Door entry systems, also known as access control systems, are designed to regulate access to restricted areas within a home or a commercial space. There are various kinds of door entry systems that we can use, ranging from keypad door entry systems to biometric door entry systems. These systems can verify identity and allow authorised personnel access into a given area.

Apart from providing security, these systems can also help with the management of various facilities. For example, they eliminate the need for multiple keys or locks. They also remove the need for manual control of access.

Purpose of Door Entry Systems

Before we look at the various door entry systems made available to us, it is essential to consider the benefits they provide. A door entry system is primarily designed to deny access to the wrong people. These systems can be installed on the door that allows entry to areas such as a parking garage or records room.

A very basic example would be a keypad door entry system. It requires one to key in the right code or password to gain entry. This password is typically given to the authorised personnel and is kept confidential by them.

However, there are various other systems that rely on specific mechanisms. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Video Door Entry Systems

A video door entry system also knows as a video intercom or video door phone, is a stand-alone intercom system that manages calls made by personnel at the entrance to a certain facility. This could be a factory or even a residential unit.

Here, the verification is dependent on visual identification. The identification will be carried out by security personnel, resident, or anyone tasked with doing so. Once identity is verified, the person requesting access will be allowed to enter the facility.

Though very safe, video door entry systems rely on other humans to carry out the verification process.

Wireless Door Entry Systems

Wireless door entry systems are similar to video door entry systems. They rely on audio-visual verification. However, they are wireless, which means there’s minimal wiring required. The person trying to gain access simply needs to talk to the person on the other end or show their face to them.

There are various kinds of wireless door entry systems. You have systems with features such as night vision, two-way talk, and flexible luminosity etc.

Proximity Readers

Proximity readers are the most common type of door entry systems and they’re largely used as commercial door entry systems. These systems are quite easy to use. Here, the user may be required to simply swipe a card or wear a sensor-based tag.

The advantage is that the card or tag can be deactivated once the person is no longer welcome into the facility. The card or tag can also be replaced with ease, in case it gets lost or stolen.

Safety is quite high with these systems since various verification mechanisms can be included. For instance, a photo ID, that is only readable to the system, can be issued. Also, access can be granted from a distance. So, close contact isn’t an absolute necessity. Also, these systems are relatively the most affordable of all.

Audio Door Entry Systems

Audio door entry systems are just like video door entry systems. However, they do not rely on visual verification. Rather, verification is based on audio. In other words, the person requesting access only has to speak to the security personnel, facility owner, or a resident in order to gain entry.

This system is not the safest since verification is basic. However, they work well for areas or facilities that do not require high levels of security. Another advantage is that a number of exterior entry panels can be linked with multiple handsets.

Keypad Door Entry Systems

As stated earlier, keypad door entry systems depend on codes or passwords to provide access. The code or password needs to be keyed in manually. These systems are linked to a central access control system that verifies the authenticity of the code or password.

Though these systems are very safe, there is always the possibility of codes and passwords being shared and passed on. To overcome this, some keypad door entry systems are paired with biometric systems to enhance security.

That way, you can be certain that the right person is being given access.

Biometric Door Entry Systems

Biometric door entry systems rely on physical and biological attributes to verify identity and provide access. This can include retinal scans, fingerprints, and handprints. These systems are paired with other door entry systems to deliver maximum security,

However, these systems do not come cheap. Also, there is the fear and suspicion that one’s identity can be tracked. It is even seen by some as being an invasive system.

But, these systems experience issues with accuracy and are often used in locations with low traffic.

Choosing a Door Entry System

Choosing a door entry system relies on a range of factors. So, a careful analysis of your needs and requirements is necessary. Do you need high security? Is your budget flexible? These are some of the important questions to answer because door entry systems are diverse, and each model offers its own set of benefits and capabilities.