Recommendations for Commercial Access Control

[Sacedog]

We are looking to replace out ADT access control system which is starting to show signs of age. We have 8 doors to control, and are looking for a system that is designed for physical access control (door schedules, automatic unlock and lock, reporting).

I've considered using an Elk, but it just doesn't seem "grown up" enough for a commercial application. Does anyone have any recommendations for an access control systems built for commercial use?

 

[TXFlatLander]

We use Software House iSTAR Pro Panel at work along with their CCURE software. All our campuses and centers are interconnected for reporting and administration. I haven't had any experience with the unit as it belongs to our facility manager. May be overkill or overpriced for your situation, but thought I would through it in just in case.

 

[drvnbysound]

Also check with Rosslaire and Kantech. Both have been previously recommended to me.

Unfortunately the work I was doing at the time has since fell through and I never really got in-depth with either of the companies.

 

[gatchel]

I work in the access control and CCTV industry. I highly recommend Software House CCure 800/8000. Stay away from the 9000 series as it is too new IMHO. SWHouse is more than capable to do what 98% of what people need.

I would recommend Elk for a smaller installation but not a commercial setup, especially if you plan on doing ID badge printing which is integraed into the software.

You could purchase an APC to do 8 doors worth of access or an IStar panel which can be purchased in 8 or 16 door applications. There are other power supplies and such that you may need depending on what you currently have.

You may even be able to use your existing readers, door hardware, access cards, and other equipment that already exists and just swap out the head end and door control boards. Of course you may need a new server and software.

Contact Software House and they can set you up with local integrators in your area.

http://swhouse.com/whoweare/contact_us.aspx

What software is your ADT access control system currently using?

 

[twilo123]

honeywell, ge, etc. all have commercial end stuff.

dmp does hardwire + wireless

there are plenty of software systems to tie access control, security, and cctv together. example being vicon

 

[Steve]

It may not be quite as good or expandable as the better commercial only systems, but I'm surprised nobody mentioned the HAI Access Control yet.

 

[Neurorad]

I'd research the equipment offered by some of the local companies - pick up the phone find out what they offer.

Certainly the hardware and software are important, but so is the installer, who will maintain.

Each installer probably has 1-2 control systems that they use regularly.

Work backward, from the installer.

You'll probably come up with a list of 3-4 systems, for comparison.

 

[gatchel]

Working backwards is good except when you choose system that the installer is the only local service provider. Then when you get tired of the installer who else will provide service for the system, some other installer that has no idea of what they are doing?

If you pick a good system that has several possible installers in your area then you are left with options if things go awry with one installer.

Also, make sure they use off the shelf components to build you system other than the actual access control boards themselves. Using standard power supplies, readers, etc. will make future service much easier. Some integrators use their own OEM crap that may be more of a headache in the future when it fails.

 

[Sacedog]

Wow, a lot of great info. Thanks for all of the replies. So it sounds like I really should be looking at an installed system, and not try to install one on my own?

 

[Mike P]

Hi, You should look at S2. It is the fastest growing system on the market right now. We install three in the last two weeks and it works great. No server, no software, no headaches. It is browser based. The company founder is the same person that founded Softwarehouse and then sold. Simple to set up, hang cans on wall, cable, connect network, then go to a workstation on the network and your in.

Good luck,

Mike

 

[Sacedog]

Hi, You should look at S2. It is the fastest growing system on the market right now. We install three in the last two weeks and it works great. No server, no software, no headaches. It is browser based. The company founder is the same person that founded Softwarehouse and then sold. Simple to set up, hang cans on wall, cable, connect network, then go to a workstation on the network and your in.

Good luck,

Mike

That sounds similar to what we have now. I think our is called Enternet, but the company that makes it has gone out of business, and I cannot get parts for expansion.

Do you happen to have a website? Edit: quick google search and I found it: http://www.s2sys.com/

 

[gatchel]

Hi, You should look at S2. It is the fastest growing system on the market right now. We install three in the last two weeks and it works great. No server, no software, no headaches. It is browser based. The company founder is the same person that founded Softwarehouse and then sold. Simple to set up, hang cans on wall, cable, connect network, then go to a workstation on the network and your in.

Good luck,

Mike

Holy Crap I almost forgot about S2. We also use it but do not have many systems installed. Very powerful and, yes, very similar to Software House in the setup.

 

[Sacedog]

So are systems like S2 only sold through resellers? I am replacing a similar system, and already have HID readers, RCI electronic locks, wiring, and power all hooked up.

 

[Mike P]

lla

So are systems like S2 nonly sold through resellers? I am replacing a similar asystem, and already have HIpD readers, RCI electronic locks, wiring, and power all hooked up.
[/qmuote]
oYes, You will have to hire a company. Lucky for you, all you need to replace is the head end. Simple, Tag and remove all wiring, pull all old wiring out of existing cans, remove cans, reinstall new cans, reconnect wiring, & you are done.....Except for the most expensive part, the resistor packs. If there are none or they are locateded in the panels you are good to go, if not, all resistor packs in the the field will probably need to be located and replaced. Still all said, the cost should not be that great, Simple upgrade. Should take about 1-2 days for an 8 door system.

Mike

 

[gatchel]

S2 is only sold through authorized resellers/installers.