Page 34 - Security Today, March/April 2024

battery needs to be replaced. And, since most wireless locks feature built-in cache memory, they can continue to work even if there is a power disruption in the building.
5. Increased efficiency. Wireless locks can make it easier to accomplish certain tasks, saving valuable time and money. For buildings with multiple access points, automatic lock and unlock schedules can be set on specific openings to minimize the need to visit each door. For buildings with a high number of new employees, wire- less locks make it easy to issue and revoke electronic credentials without having to go to the door. Additionally, for visitors or service providers, credentials can be set to expire after one-time use or after a specific date.
6. Reduced operational costs. In build- ings where there is frequent turnover, such as university residence halls or multifamily housing, wireless locks eliminate the need to re-key or switch locks upon transfer of occupancy. Electronic or mobile credentials can be quickly programmed, and access rights can be easily added or removed right from the office. And, if they are integrated into a cloud-based access control solution, updates can be made remotely, which has become a greater need since the pandemic changed the way many people work.
7. Increased convenience. Many busi- nesses and institutions require staff and visitors to wear ID badges that often double as electronic credentials, typically used on the perimeter to gain access to the building. The same credentials can be used with wireless locks for convenient access to private offices, records rooms, laborato- ries and shared spaces. Mobile credentials, which are gaining in popularity, are highly convenient as people always carry their phones. In some cases, electronic creden- tials are used beyond access control ap- plications, including secure printing and vending machines.
8. Innovative wireless communication.
Wireless locks are ideal for places where it is difficult or challenging to run wires such as historic buildings, parking gates, elevators and remote buildings. A variety of communication options are available including Wi-Fi and 900 MHz that are managed inside or outside of the IT net-
“In buildings where there is frequent turnover, wireless locks eliminate the need to re-key or switch locks upon transfer of occupancy. Electronic or mobile credentials can be quickly programmed, and access rights can be easily added or removed right from the office.”
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MARCH/APRIL 2024 | SECURITY TODAY
work, depending on preference or policies. Wireless communication range will vary depending on the technology, building construction and environmental factors. A trusted service provider can recommend the best approach to optimize wireless per- formance.
9. Scalable solution. Wireless locks of- fer scalability and expandability, making them suitable for buildings of all sizes. It is common for buildings to install wireless locks on a few doors to evaluate them out in advance of a larger deployment planned out for the future. Additionally, there are some wireless lock manufacturers that of- fer interchangeable credential reader and communication modules, making it easier to facilitate transitions as needs evolve over time.
10. Enhanced peace of mind. Wireless locks provide increased visibility and con- trol over what is happening at the open- ing, with real-time capabilities depending on the model and access control system. For shared and sensitive spaces, permis- sions can be set to control who has access,
to which doors and at what times. Specific lock schedules and time zones can reduce the number of people accessing specific openings after hours or on holidays.
WIRELESS LOCKS
ARE A SMART CHOICE
Upgrading to wireless electronic locks offer improved security, convenience and efficiency. They are effective and scalable, and they expand the benefits of electronic access control deeper into the building.
With reduced installation time and costs, wireless electronic locks can be de- ployed all at once or over time as budgets permit. A trusted service provider can recommend the best options to meet the building’s needs, today and in the future.
Karen Keating is the senior brand and solutions manager, Locks
and Access Solutions, at
Allegion US.
Footnote:
1. OMDIA Access Control Database – 2023 Analysis |
August 2023
gankevstock/stock.adobe.com
WIRELESS LOCKS