Page 52 - Security Today, March/April 2025

A C C E S S C O N T R O L
Meeting Modern Demands
By Benjamin Williams
at the forefront of innovation within the security
Door hardware and access control continue to be
industry, continuously evolving to meet the dy-
namic needs of commercial spaces.
From ensuring robust security to simplifying
complex installations, advancements in electric strikes, electro-
magnetic locks (maglocks) and specialty solutions are addressing
the unique challenges of securing modern openings.
EVOLUTION OF COMMERCIAL DOORS AND SECURITY
Modern commercial doors span a wide range of applications—
swinging, sliding, folding and glass—all requiring customized
access control solutions. This diversity has spurred a shift from
traditional hardware to advanced electronics and integrated
systems. These networked solutions connect to access control
software platforms, providing real-time updates, dynamic moni-
toring, and seamless control through a centralized interface.
Alongside enhanced functionality, sustainability remains a
priority, with more manufacturers incorporating lower power
energy-effi cient design strategies to align with green building
standards.
RE-ENVISIONING RETROFIT
Retrofi tting an opening is more economically effi cient and a
less carbon-intensive way of upgrading outdated buildings than
demolition and rebuilding according to the Net Zero Carbon
Guide, and some 80 percent of the buildings standing in the year
2050 will be already built. To address the growing retrofi t market,
entrance solutions now include new wireless devices integrated to
door control and part of larger, online networked solutions.
Wireless locks, readers and electronics are increasingly reliable
with longer signalling range, quick transmission and encrypted
communications. These devices solve challenging installations like
historic buildings or concrete structures where drilling is prohibited
or too time consuming – while delivering robust, secure openings.
ELECTRIC STRIKES: VERSATILE AND EFFICIENT
Electric strikes remain the most common method for adding ac-
cess control to the opening. They offer dynamic functionality
with exceptional security, providing greater fl exibility for install-
ers that allows them to use these types of solutions for the most
complex all-glass door openings.
More advanced models provide integrated monitoring capa-
bilities, enabling real-time feedback on door status and improving
access control management. These devices continue to be refi ned
to provide more fl exible installation and programming features
that shave off installation time in the fi eld, making projects more
profi table. Easy to install, electric strikes reduce labor costs and
fi eld time onsite, making them the preferred choice for installers
and systems integrators alike.
MAGLOCKS: STRENGTH MEETS INNOVATION
Maglocks have long been valued for their durability and simplic-
ity, with no moving parts to wear down over time. Recent innova-
tions have enhanced their functionality with features like built-in
motion sensors and tamper detection. These advancements re-
duce wiring complexity, making installations quicker and cleaner.
Eco-friendly maglocks dramatically lower energy consump-
tion, supporting green initiatives while maintaining high holding
force and security.
For example, built-in door prop sensing technology de-energizes
the maglock when the door is in an open position for a predeter-
mined period, alerting users and throttling down power draw to save
energy. Maglocks now include a wide range of confi gurations and
programming options, as well as new styles and fi nishes to meet ar-
chitectural designs. In addition to smaller maglock footprints for
unobtrusive aesthetics, these devices connect to an entrance access
control or building management system for live status updates on
the opening.
SPECIALTY LOCKS: SECURING GATES
AND CABINETS WITH INNOVATION
In recent years, gates have become the fi rst layer of defense in
physical security design strategies and increasingly deployed in
interior spaces like warehouses and data centers.
Electronic gate locks make installation easier by integrating
advanced features, such as automatic dual voltage adjustment,
latch monitoring and fail-safe or fail-secure options, ensuring
fl exibility and robust security.
These locks provide solutions for diverse applications, from
residential pools to critical infrastructure, combining durability
with compatibility for electronic access control. For example,
gate locks with latch status monitoring can be integrated with a
larger access control or building management software for real-
time status that indicates the gate is closed and the latch strike
is engaged and secure. Installer-friendly designs make upgrades
seamless, while options like shock-absorbing mounts and wireless
components reduce labor and extend hardware life.
Addressing the growth in data centers – driven by AI and in-
formation demands and the need to protect assets and informa-
tion – are specialty server cabinet locks. These devices give users
higher levels of security and accountability – with an audit trail
at the cabinet level or confi gured as part of a networked access
control solution.
The access control market continues to adapt to the evolving
needs of modern facilities and every level of security. Innovations
in electric strikes, maglocks and related technologies continue to
raise the bar in security, effi ciency and sustainability. As these so-
lutions become more integrated and intelligent, they are ensuring
that the buildings of today are prepared for the
challenges of tomorrow.
Benjamin Williams is the senior director of
Product Management for ASSA ABLOY brands,
Phoenix, AZ.
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