Entry Control Systems / Access Control

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Access control?

Access control is exactly what it says, a method of controlling access to an area. This can be anything from the front doors of a large building to a small stationery cupboard.

There are hundreds of different types of access control systems available to suit all requirements.

Entry Readers

These are devices that are located on the outside of the controlled area. They are available in three main types and in many different designs.

The first type is a Keypad of Coded Unit. This will be a keypad that requires a code to be entered to allow access into the controlled area.

The second is a Magnetic Swipe reader, this device will read small credit card size cards with a magnetic stripe, and if this is valid access is permitted.

Finally the third is the Proximity Reader, this will be a blank box fitted outside the controlled area. Small key fobs or credit card sized tokens are presented to the reader to allow access. This is the longest lasting of all the three options as there is no physical contact required producing any wear.

What do you use to secure the doors?

The two most common methods of securing doors are either by an electric release (rim lock) which allows a normal Yale type catch to be used to secure the door. The other method is a Magnetic Lock that is secured to the doorframe and a metal plate is fitted to the door. When the door is closed an electrical charge powers the magnet and holds the metal plate tight preventing the door frame from opening.

Exiting the building

To exit the secure area there are again three main methods. The first is by opening the door from the inside via a handle or snib.

The second is via a Request to Exit (R.E.X) button located near the exit door. This is about the same size as a light switch.

The third would be another reader usually the same as the Entry Reader. These are used where higher security is required or when details of who is on site are required.

So what is the difference between Access Control and Entry Systems?

Entry Phone Systems differ from Access Control Systems as they are manned i.e. they require human intervention to operate. Entry Phone Systems are most common in offices where the entrance door is secured but access for a visitor is required. A two-way speech unit with a call button will be mounted outside the entrance door and a handset with a door release button is located conveniently within the building. There can be any number of handsets and call button combinations.

The day of installation, what do you do?

Most importantly when Editquest carry out any works the utmost care is taken to ensure that there is minimal disruption. Any cable runs or siting of the equipment will be checked with the customer, this pay involve lifting carpets and floorboards. This is usually discussed during our survey prior to the work commencing.

Our Engineers usually start at 8.00am of alternatively at a time mutually agreed with our Customer. The Engineer will confirm the works to be carried out. At this point the customer may discuss any special requirements or areas of concern, if not already discussed with the Surveyor.

All of our Engineers have been thoroughly vetted and will carry identification cards. There is no need for the customer to be present during the installation, in fact many would rather not be. It may be advisable to pack away any delicate items.

The equipment is then installed as per the specification or quotation detail. The Engineer will clear away all mess and remove any rubbish before handing over the completed system to the Customer.

Once the system is completed the Engineers will fully test and commission the system to ensure that if is fully operational. When our Engineers are happy that the system is ready they will hand over the system.

To hand over the system the Customer will be shown the extent of the protection provided. The system will then be fully demonstrated and any relevant documentation and user guides will be supplied. Only when the Customer is happy with the installation and the training given will they be asked to sign the Engineers paperwork.

I had a system fitted, it is 3 o'clock in the morning and I need help, what do I do?

Editquest operates a twenty-four hour emergency service that runs every day of the year. If any of our Customers has a problem they can always contact an Engineer, any time of the day or night.

We can help you make access easier & safer!

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