Access control systems greatly enhance security operations but often entail complicated setups with high installation and labor costs. New power and access integration solutions alleviate much of this longstanding problem by simplifying board layout and wire management with extreme versatility and scalability. The simple yet pragmatic design of these new integration solutions makes an otherwise arduous aspect of integration faster, easier, and extremely cost-efficient – all of which are tangible benefits for both end users and installers.
To further communicate the value of these innovative solutions, here are 6 benefits of integrating power and access:
In the past, multiple enclosures were typically installed to house access control equipment, power supplies and accessories. This scenario requires a significant amount of valuable wall space, versus an all-in-one access and power solution that provides ample room for all the required access and power products and backup batteries. Such solutions also increase access control system capacity by providing up to twice the outputs and features in a space-saving stackable mounting footprint. More outputs in less space also means more room for controllers inside an enclosure, allowing installers to easily scale new and existing systems. And when wall-space is at a premium, rack mount drawers with integrated backplanes allow flexible layouts for up to 8-doors in 2U rack space.
Customers and systems integrators alike need to know that installation of an access control system will be done in a timely manner. That is why new access and power integration solutions have been developed to combine backplanes, power supply/chargers, access control modules, voltage regulators, and power distribution modules into a single, easy-to-order integration kit that accommodates boards for up to 28-doors in a single enclosure. And with factory installed wire management and wire assemblies that include connected terminal blocks, system integrators can save even more time before ever arriving on site.
With Power over Ethernet (PoE) powering most network appliances, many access control panels now have the option to be PoE powered as well, utilizing either a midspan PoE power injector or a PoE switch to provide reliable power. New compact PoE managed and unmanaged switches are available that can be mounted inside the enclosure and powered via 12VDC or 24VDC, allowing for a single Ethernet drop from the head-end. Power to ancillary devices such as card readers, fail-secure electric strikes, electrified leversets and motion request to exit (REX) devices can also be supplied by access control panels via PoE.
A new generation of network power management solutions provide advanced remote capabilities to control devices, while monitoring and reporting system power diagnostics from a single-pane platform, greatly increasing system reliability and ROI to enhance any security installation. Backward compatibility with existing network enabled devices, also helps ensure a smooth transition when upgrading systems, including the ability to update the software of multiple devices at one time, and receive on-screen notifications when a product’s firmware is outdated. Status reporting with expanded capabilities are also now available to monitor current, voltage, internal temperature, batteries, and more. These network power management solutions increase overall efficiency, and are also third-party verified for cybersecure protection.
Access and power integration solutions easily combine power distribution with the controllers from the leading access brands, streamlining deployments. The latest solutions include removable backplanes that simplify board layout and wire management, allowing installers to easily configure and test systems prior to on-site installation greatly reducing labor and overall costs. Configuring these integration solutions into a single enclosure is further simplified using online tools, such as the Trove System Design Tool, making the layout process even easier.
The time and labor-saving efficiencies afforded by new pre-wired or customizable power and access integration solutions contribute to overall cost savings when configuring, installing and maintaining systems. For example, monitoring power remotely from a single location or across multiple sites allows for the integrator to quickly diagnose certain issues before rolling a truck. And in most cases, remote trouble-shooting techniques can be resolved without a technician on site.
In today’s professional security landscape, stretching resources to increase efficiency is all but a given mandate for both systems integrators and end users. Power and access integration solutions help solve this challenge with multiple advantages that contribute to a comprehensive and cost-effective security infrastructure. Straightforward power and access configurations lead to reduced installation time and costs while delivering greater flexibility and ROI. Taking advantage of new power and access integration solutions contribute to optimal security outcomes while maximizing the value of these investments.
Ronnie Pennington
Director of Sales for the Americas
Altronix
VR6 Voltage Regulator converts a 24VDC input into a regulated 5VDC or 12VDC selectable output at up to 6A supply current. It reduces the cost of adding an additional power supply to achieve 24VDC and 12VDC or 5VDC simultaneously, saving valuable enclosure space.
