User Guide

AXIS 2490 User’s Manual Examples
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Appendix E - Examples
Applications
Access Control Devices
Many buildings nowadays do not use door keys for controlling access, but instead use
magnetic cards and card readers at each door or access point. Entering a code on a keypad
is another alternative. Both the card readers and the keypads are connected to a computer
that opens/unlocks the door.
A common way of installing a large number of card readers in a building with several
floors has been to use a PC for each card reader and connect them via long serial cables.
Every card reader and connected PC must then be provided with the correct information
about all the employees who require access. Some people might have access to all doors
while others only have admission to a certain floor.
To cancel lost cards and to issue new ones, all the PCs must be given this information. This
will be necessary each time someone leaves the company and when new employees are
hired.
A much better solution would be to connect the card readers to a network. Even if a
network has to be installed, it will still be cheaper than running long serial cables to each
card reader.
The network solution has many advantages. From anywhere in the network it is possible to
send the right commands to all of the card readers, and it’s also easy to update the system.
In the case of a stolen card, it can easily be invalidated from a remote location.
It’s also possible to connect a camera to each card reader. Every time someone enters the
door with a magnetic card a photo is taken and stored. If a stolen card is used, the person
using the card will be revealed. It is also possible to connect an alarm system to prevent
break-ins.
Remote access to keypads and card readers makes work much easier for everyone
concerned. Using the Internet, there are no physical limits anymore. Even repairs can be
made from a distance. Service engineers can work from home if they are on call at night or
at the weekend.