|
Access control is becoming more and more sophisticated. New barcode readers and decal systems are proximity readers that can identify vehicles moving as fast as 25 miles per hour. The reader sends a beam that reads the information reflected back and is able to decode the number of the decal and authorize entry.
Barcode readers can scan decals up to 6' away and don't require the driver to open the car window, and more sophisticated models are able to track who entered and who went out for added security. These readers better survive the weather and are generally better protected from vandalism than the old slot readers.
Today, access control technology is hands free and being used in employee parking lots to limit access to current employees and parking controls at universities. Up until now, it was used in gated communities and apartment complexes, but it is expanding rapidly into high security as a means to better control personnel costs in maintaining perimeter security.
A second application of the technology is managing visitors – the system can record if and when a visitor leaves. Gate personnel issue a bar-coded visitor's card that must be deposited at the exit gate before it opens to allow the visitor to leave which documents the departure.
Barcode readers are considered a step up from slot card readers that are easily vandalized and radio controlled “clickers” that may jam and are expensive to replace. |