Author Archives: news

1. Access Control Segment growth to be driven by building and city automation

   11 July 2018 10:56 am Leave a Comment

   Although smart cards remain the most popular form factors used for access control applications, the market evolution is pushing access control implementers toward technology convergence, exploring and combining RFID, NFC, Bluetooth, biometrics and smart cards. alongside smart devices including mobile and wearables, a recent market research report from ABI Research has been able to suggest.

   Smart cards remain the predominant form factor used within the access control market, projected to reach over 250 million shipment units by 2022, but the next-generation access control opportunity is presenting itself via tie-in and convergence with other technologies and services, most notably within the smart cities and building automation domains, leaning on access control credentials as a means of further automating systems and personalizing experiences.

   Biometrics continue to gain a considerable position in the access control market, used as a standalone authentication solution or in conjunction with other technologies and devices for MFA purposes. The drive toward personalization is creating further emphasis on secure individualized identities. From smart cards with integrated fingerprint scanners to behavioral scanner access gates the range of technologies is extensive.

   The rise in smart homes and building automation is driving new fields from which access control can penetrate using an access control credential as a central identifier to tie into other services and systems (i.e., Alexa, music devices, shutters, heating, lighting, etc.). In turn, this is presenting a significant diversification opportunity through tailored and individualized preference enablement.

   “Multiple-application smart cards and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) solutions will prove to be crucial elements in enabling convergence with other applications including payments or ticketing,” said Jonathan O’Flaherty, Research Analyst at ABI Research. In addition, technology coexistence is driving new innovative and personalized services. “Market convergence is the natural evolution of the smart card market; be it from a payment, transport ticketing, or ID. As such, using an access credential as the enabling identifying anchor point can lead to large-scale multi-application service enablement,” O’Flaherty added.

   Access Control UK – delivering superior security and reliability

   Access Control UK is the No.1 British designer and manufacturer of smart card – based access control and time and attendance terminals. We supply top-quality, reliable and secure Access Control Systems that adhere to the latest industry standards and have numerous partners and distributors across the world.

   You can control most standard types of internal/external electronic door releases and physical security devices such as barriers and turnstiles making full use of location points, whether in full view or hidden out of sight.

   Operated by contactless smart cards, key fobs or biometrics, a Tensor Access Control System gives you full control over who is allowed access through any controlled point at any time of any day, placing it at the forefront of security solutions.

   Access Control UK systems are modular in design, and have the advanced capability of being able to be adapted and extended to integrate with a time and attendance system seamlessly and without complication.

   If you’d like to find out more about the extensive range of access control solutions supplied by Access Control UK , just contact us or Book a Demo, we’d be more than happy to answer all of your questions and queries.

2. Integrated access control and CCTV video surveillance system deployed to protect Cathedral

   28 June 2018 1:26 pm Leave a Comment

   Places of worship (especially modern ones) often require as much security as any other venue where people congregate on a continuous basis, and this is exactly the reason why an integrated access control and CCTV video surveillance system has been deployed at a cathedral in Knoxville, Tennessee, a recent news report in the local media has been able to reveal.

   The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus which had been under construction for three years, boasts a state-of-art access control and camera surveillance systems. Parishioners are allowed access to the Nave and Transept for prayer, worship and confession from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Utilizing integration between the access control and fire alarm systems, a pre-programmed message recorded by Father David Boettner is played indicating the building is closing.

   After the building closes, integration of the fire alarm, access control, video surveillance and burglar alarm infrastructure provide church leaders with the information needed to properly secure and protect the facility.

   “This new system for our cathedral helps us control which areas people can visit after normal church hours without feeling like they are being excluded,” Father Boettner said. “We didn’t want the access control system to be too restrictive, but at the same time, we encourage people to stay within certain areas when staff aren’t present.”

   Access Control UK – specialising in deploying advanced access control system tailored to your specific requirements

   Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

   The access control systems supplied by Access Control UK also support an effective Fire Roll Call feature, which will enable employers to evacuate the personnel off the premises in a very orderly and clear manner, should a fire, explosion or some other type of catastrophe occur.

   If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just hit the contact button at the top of the screen, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

3. The use of biometrics on the rise in building access control solutions

   18 June 2018 1:36 pm Leave a Comment

   Biometric and opto-electronic technologies are becoming increasingly popular for building access control solutions, a news report on this topic has been able to suggest.

   Biometrics technology is largely considered to offer a high degree of security and is extremely user-friendly – but its success relies on the effective application of highly efficient optoelectronic components, designed specifically for security applications.

   Unique human characteristics – including facial features, the pattern of the iris, palm veins or retinal blood vessels as well as voice, fingerprints, palm-prints, handwritten signatures and hand geometry – are identified by the security system (for example, utilizing infrared light-emitting diodes, cameras, and so on), and then compared with previously stored biometrical data of authorised users.

   There has been a huge leap in developments in biometric identification technology based on infrared light-emitting diodes, spurred on by new possibilities to make buildings, devices and applications safer and more convenient to access.

   Perfecting the security systems with all components required for such technology is crucial for the safety of all users.

   Access Control UK – experts in designing and deploying advanced biometric access control systems

   Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

   If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

4. Advanced and secure access control systems are a must for securing modern infrastructure

   12 June 2018 3:34 pm Leave a Comment

   Advanced, secure access control systems using the latest technologies are a must for securing modern infrastructure and facilities, as the challenges facing these type of sites become increasingly more complex and difficult to tackle, experts believe.

   Any type of intrusion, including low-level ones, can cause nuisance, disruption, damage and loss of assets. At a higher level there is the risk of attack which could result in an interruption of vital services for extended periods, leading to the potential loss of reputation and public confidence.

   Access control systems are the best solutions to the type of issues listed above, since, when properly and carefully designed and deployed, can deliver a secure, safe and automated working environment.

   A typical access control project scope might encompass the integration of wide-area surveillance; automatic number plate recognition; perimeter and site intrusion protection; access control for people, contractors and vehicles; alarm management; video analytics; fire detection and extinguishing; phased evacuation systems; lone worker monitoring and asset tracking.

   This integration of many disciplines provides centralised situational awareness, improved information and intelligence, effective response to critical events and the proper co-ordination of resources. Security operatives are able to accelerate their response to alerts and manage risk before it escalates to a more serious incident.

   Access Control UK – delivering superior security and reliability

   Access Control UK is the No.1 British designer and manufacturer of smart card – based access control and time and attendance terminals. We supply top-quality, reliable and secure Access Control Systems that adhere to the latest industry standards and have numerous partners and distributors across the world.

   You can control most standard types of internal/external electronic door releases and physical security devices such as barriers and turnstiles making full use of location points, whether in full view or hidden out of sight.

   Operated by contactless smart cards, key fobs or biometrics, a Tensor Access Control System gives you full control over who is allowed access through any controlled point at any time of any day, placing it at the forefront of security solutions.

   Access Control UK systems are modular in design, and have the advanced capability of being able to be adapted and extended to integrate with a time and attendance system seamlessly and without complication.

   If you’d like to find out more about the extensive range of access control solutions supplied by Access Control UK , just contact us or Book a Demo, we’d be more than happy to answer all of your questions and queries.

5. Access Control and Wearable Devices – the Future of Workplace Security and Safety

   5 June 2018 10:37 am Leave a Comment

   As wearable devices becoming increasingly popular – and indeed, a part of everyday life – their impact and possible uses for enforcing workplace security is undeniable, industry experts believe.

   British workers have already become very well accustomed to wearables – in fact, a recent survey from SHP revealed 45% of the UK workforce would feel comfortable with sharing information via wearable devices for the purpose of protecting their health and wellbeing.

   In their top predictions for 2016 and beyond, the researchers at Gartner, Inc. forecasted that 2 million employees would soon be required to wear health and fitness trackers as a condition of employment.

   A few examples of wearable technologies emerging in the UK workplace are smartphone apps and wristband for lone workers, which can be used as a discreet panic button or check-in tool, as well as ID badges for NHS workers, which can send a discreet audio call to a dedicated call centre in case of an emergency.

   Wearable devices can also be used for checking credentials – using biometric identification features on one’s mobile device to authenticate oneself, access particular areas of a site and so on.

   Wearables have their benefits in more ‘ordinary’ office situations too. They could help boost staff wellness by addressing issues like fatigue and stress and by encouraging employees to exercise and take regular breaks.

   Access Control UK – suppliers of biometric access control systems that easily integrate with IoT devices

   Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

   The access control systems supplied by Access Control UK also support an effective Fire Roll Call feature, which will enable employers to evacuate the personnel off the premises in a very orderly and clear manner, should a fire, explosion or some other type of catastrophe occur.

   If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just hit the contact button at the top of the screen, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

6. Access Control Systems – Either Smart card or Biometric – Will Boost Your Building’s Security

   30 May 2018 3:56 pm Leave a Comment

   Using keys to manage access to one’s office building or business premises is one of the least secure access control solutions – they can be easily replicated should they fall into the wrong hands, not to mention that retrieving them from former employees can prove to be a very difficult process.

   Replacing locks for an entire building should a key get lost can be a very expensive option, not to mention that every single employee should receive a copy – an extra expense.

   This is where smart card or biometric access control systems come into play. Smart cards and proximity cards, as part of an access control system, can solve your key-related security issues. With each card assigned to a specific person, your system can keep records of which people have accessed which doors, and when.
   Your access control system can also solve the problem of lost keys, and keys that have disappeared with employees who have left. Because each card is specific to a user, specific cards can be disabled. So, if a card is lost, or an employee leaves, all you have to do is disable the missing card, so that the system no longer recognises it, and it can’t be used to access the building – you’ll never have to change the locks again!

   Access Control UK – delivering superior security and reliability

   Access Control UK is the No.1 British designer and manufacturer of smart card – based access control and time and attendance terminals. We supply top-quality, reliable and secure Access Control Systems that adhere to the latest industry standards and have numerous partners and distributors across the world.

   You can control most standard types of internal/external electronic door releases and physical security devices such as barriers and turnstiles making full use of location points, whether in full view or hidden out of sight.

   Operated by contactless smart cards, key fobs or biometrics, a Tensor Access Control System gives you full control over who is allowed access through any controlled point at any time of any day, placing it at the forefront of security solutions.

   Access Control UK systems are modular in design, and have the advanced capability of being able to be adapted and extended to integrate with a time and attendance system seamlessly and without complication.

   If you’d like to find out more about the extensive range of access control solutions supplied by Access Control UK , just contact us or Book a Demo, we’d be more than happy to answer all of your questions and queries.

7. Construction site access control – vital for ensuring safety and productivity

   22 May 2018 2:06 pm Leave a Comment

   Construction companies who want to improve their chances of winning tenders need to focus on solving challenges related to productivity, profitability, performance, labour and technology, experts in the field believe.

   Most construction firms are certainly innovative when using technology to present projects to clients and when executing on those projects. They’re increasingly using tools like virtual and augmented reality to give clients an idea of the finished product before they even lay the foundations.

   Yet when it comes to their own internal technology and business processes, there’s a lot more that these firms can do to boost their productivity and efficiency.

   By using a fully integrated, single platform for workforce management, construction firms can collect data from multiple sources in real-time, manage tender applications, monitor their workforce, and better manage the different elements of their projects, from procurement to expense claims and sub-contracting, to compliance and reporting.

   These types of technologies now assist business decision makers to make those critical decisions in time and to optimise costing right down to individual jobs, as well as better manage the safety and productivity of their workforces.

   Access Control UK– the partner of choice for Construction / Building Site Access Control

   Professionals who hold a CSCS card can use their existing card to gain access to a construction site or similar, including through turnstiles or car park barriers. The WinAC.NET software includes a CSCS card wizard that allows system users to quickly grant contractors access to their access control system.

   Other advanced features that can be enabled include a separate verification process where CSCS smartcard holders must report to a Site Manager for the Site Manager to verify the Contractor’s details before permitting the CSCS smartcard to enter a site. This can be conducted on a site-by-site basis or can be applied to permit usage of a CSCS smartcard across a number of sites.

   The CSCS smartcard provides a very powerful and cost effective means of centralising Time & Attendance, Advanced Access Control and Fire/Evacuation roll-call, re-using an existing CSCS smartcard as base for the entire system.

   If you’d like to find out more about the integration of Access Control Systems with CSCS cards, just contacts us or Book a Demo, our representatives will be more than happy to answer all of your questions and queries.

8. Nigerian port operator announces significant access control investment

   15 May 2018 1:06 pm Leave a Comment

   A Nigerian port operator has announced plans to install extensive access control systems in its terminal as part of a drive to improve overall security at the facility, a news report in the local media has been able to reveal.

   Ports & Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML), a concessionaire in Nigerian port, said it has invested over N100 million to develop a state-of-the-art access control and operational management system in its terminal, to authenticate the credentials of port users and facilitate trade in the terminal.

   PTML, one of the largest RoRo terminals in West Africa, which is located at the Tin-Can Island Port, handles a large chunk of cars that come into Nigerian port.

   PTML, which is concession to Grimaldi Agency Nigeria on build, operate and transfer (BOT) agreement, takes very seriously its obligations to the provisions of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS), in order to provide safe and secured business environment for all actors in the terminal.

   “The aim of the access control measures we have is to control the flow of persons into our terminal through designated access points by enabling scanning of cards to gain access. It ensures that only authorise persons can transit through our restricted areas and we have developed this system in compliance to the ISPS Code and strictly in adherence to all relevant Nigerian regulations in line with the provisions of Customs and Excise Management Act (CIMA), said Steve Oko, Admin manager of PTML.

   Access Control UK – suppliers of secure and reliable biometric and smart card-based access control systems

   Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

   The access control systems supplied by Access Control UK also support an effective Fire Roll Call feature, which will enable employers to evacuate the personnel off the premises in a very orderly and clear manner, should a fire, explosion or some other type of catastrophe occur.

   If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just hit the contact button at the top of the screen, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

9. Biometric authentication system to be used as alternative to student ID cards

   1 May 2018 3:06 pm Leave a Comment

   An US-based university is currently in the process of deploying a biometric access control and authentication solution that will act as an effective alternative to the student ID cards, a recent news report in the local media has been able to reveal.

   Students at Marshall University will soon be able to enter campus dining halls with their fingerprint, adding an alternative to the student ID card. Two campus dining facilities will be included in the biometric access system for now and students are currently engaging in the fingerprint enrollment process.

   The implementation of fingerprint biometrics marks the first foray into large scale biometric access at the university. The system will not replace existing student ID card access, but rather offer another option for dining hall entry.

   Fingerprint access control doesn’t require anything but the user themselves to gain entry. Students routinely lose or forget their student ID card, so this system will offer some added flexibility to those students that opt into the fingerprint access program. Security was also considered in the decision making process.

   Access Control UK – experts in designing and deploying advanced biometric access control systems

   Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

   If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just contact us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.

10. The UK Access Control, Security and CCTV Market set for steady growth

    24 April 2018 10:46 am Leave a Comment

    The UK access control, security and CCTV systems’ market has recorded a steady level of growth throughout 2017 and is likely to keep growing at a similar pace in 2018, a recent market research report has been able to suggest.

    The “Security Equipment, Access Control and CCTV-UK-APRIL 2018” from Market Research Hub points out that the demand for security equipment grew steadily in 2017, in spite of the broader economic and political uncertainties surrounding the Brexit.

    The UK has traditionally remained a lucrative market for security equipment, access control, and CCTV market globally. The country has a robust public surveillance mechanism, with a high number of CCTVs monitoring the public places.

    The demand for security equipment, access control, and CCTV systems was bolstered by launch of technologically superior security equipment in the market, as well as on account of increase in burglary incidents. Dissemination of information about these activities in local and national media has led many residential societies and individual households to boost their surveillance apparatus. These factors have also led to an increase in investment in security equipment, access control, and CCTVs in the UK.

    In addition to these factors, demand for security equipment is also growing on account of broader trends related to the consolidation in the smart home market. The reduction in cost of various security equipment, combined with the growing DIY trend has influenced many households to invest in access control and security equipment.

    Access Control UK – specialising in deploying advanced access control system tailored to your specific requirements

    Access Control UK employs a variety of access control technologies in order to create advanced solutions, enable users to exert solid, reliable and accurate control over the access to specific premises or zones.

    The access control systems supplied by Access Control UK also support an effective Fire Roll Call feature, which will enable employers to evacuate the personnel off the premises in a very orderly and clear manner, should a fire, explosion or some other type of catastrophe occur.

    If you’d like to find out more about the range of solutions supplied by Access Control UK, both in terms of hardware (smart card readers, biometric readers, turnstiles, etc.) and software (access rights management software solutions, etc.), just hit the contact button at the top of the screen, we’ll be more than happy to answer any queries you might have.