Consider your choice of PoE and wireless locks

Standardizing on IP technology is becoming the norm. Businesses already have corporate networks in place for IT-centric systems, and it is making more sense to go that route for security too. Real-time connectivity and enhanced feature sets also contribute to the growing interest in IP security technology.

So if you are ready to move from a serial-based access control system to IP, and shopping around for new IP access control door hardware or locks, here are some important considerations:

Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) and wireless locks offer quick and easy installation

Wireless locks are great in cases where wiring might be cost-prohibitive or the door is in an impossible-to-reach location. These locks communicate with the access control software through the corporate WiFi network.

Genetec recently announced a strategic partnership with SALTO, a Spanish developer of wireless locking solutions. The SALTO SALLIS wireless door technology is the latest addition in our on-going commitment to provide the most open and supported access control offering. ASSA ABLOY's Aperio-enabled wireless locks, as well as their SARGENT and Corbin Russwin-PoE/WiFi-locks are other choices made available to customers.

Another option is choosing Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) locks such HID Global EDGE EVO® PoE controllers and readers. With PoE locks, you can pull a single cable to the door for both communication and power, install a PoE controller, and then locally wire all the door accessories without having to go back to an electrical closet. PoE locks save you time and money when it comes to installation and labor.

Some of these IP-enabled locks also come as one single piece of hardware. So instead of having to purchase and install many door hardware components like the reader, door strike, dry contact, etc., you can get devices with everything built-in.

Ask about native IP capabilities

Some customers might want to add network adapters to their serial devices, but this option can increase costs and installation can be difficult. Choosing IP-enabled door locks is a more cost-effective long-term strategy.

This also applies to access control software.  Not all access control manufacturers have designed their software to be IP from the beginning. Many have historically offered traditional serial-based solutions, so their software might not be able to take full advantage of IP technology.

Finding out if the system handles hundreds or thousands of door controllers on the same network, and whether the system will be able to generate thousands of events, will provide a good indication. The answer should always be yes.

Just because it's IP, doesn't mean it's open

Make sure you protect your investment in your new access control system by choosing devices that openly integrate with different IP access control software. And vice-versa; look for an open-architecture access control system that lets you swap out hardware when new technology comes out. You never know when your application might demand more advanced devices such as biometric readers and RFID tags..

If you're not entirely ready to replace your RS-485 serial devices, read our blog post titled "Understanding How the Access Control Ecosystem Has Evolved" to see how install a single intelligent controller can help you gradually move to IP.