Since the early 1980s, key card entry systems have been popular for access control for Colorado Springs businesses. Even though this technology has evolved over time, the purpose of these devices hasn’t changed. They provide a quick, easy, and secure way to grant or restrict access to certain areas.
You’ll find key card entry systems in many different types of establishments — retail stores, government buildings, schools, hotels, and, yes, even in private homes.
There are two main types of key card entry readers: magnetic stripe readers and radio frequency identification (RFID) readers.
Companies often use magnetic stripe readers to control access to a specific area without the need to spend a lot of money on equipment and installation. RFID has also gained popularity in recent years because business owners can use these tools to enjoy greater control of their key card systems.
In this guide, we’ll go over some factors to consider when you’re deciding which type of key card entry system might be right for your business.
Traditional vs. Cardless Entry
Cardless entry is a modern iteration of the traditional key card reader, allowing you to gain entry with your smartphone or a small fob. Many businesses are considering cardless entry as an alternative to RFID and magnetic stripe readers, as they offer an additional level of security and convenience.
At System Links Colorado, we have seen an increase in interest in these modern, keyless access control systems, and for good reason. While key cards serve a useful purpose, it’s easy to misplace them, break them, or forget them at home. More importantly, information on magnetic stripe and RFID cards can be vulnerable to thieves and intruders seeking unauthorized access to your business.
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What Level of Security Does Your Business Need?
What kind of security do you need from your key card entry system? The answer really depends on what you need to protect. For instance, businesses with thousands of dollars worth of inventory on the premises will want a more robust, top-of-the-line security system with a lot of bells and whistles.
The challenge is that these systems can be prohibitively expensive for small Colorado Springs businesses. A quick search of a merchant account provider can show you that they average $2,000 or more per month for the most secure systems. What’s worse, some dealers require you to sign a contract that locks you into using their monitoring services for years to come. And if something goes wrong with your equipment, it can take weeks to fix it.
On the other hand, if you have just one or two employees and a small retail store, you likely have no need for such expansive and expensive solutions.
With this in mind, it’s best to take advantage of the free on-site consultation and quote that a dependable security system installer will provide you. You know your business, and a reliable installer knows theirs. They can help you choose a key card entry system that offers lots of flexibility for you, your employees, and your customers.
When choosing the installer and service provider for your security camera and access control system you’ll want to pick a team that can help to install, maintain, and troubleshoot your key card system if necessary. You should also look for one with a proven track record of great customer support that has been in business for several years and is not going anywhere.
Learn more about why System Links Colorado is the premier choice for CCTV and access control installation and service in Southern Colorado by clicking here.
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What Kind of Locks Will You Use?
When you’re picking a key card entry system for your business, it is important to consider how you want to grant access and what kind of locks you’ll use.
Key card entry systems are available in two main categories: hardwired and wireless. Hardwired systems are connected directly to the door lock system so that a person can’t get through the door unless their key card has been programmed for that specific door.
Wireless systems are similar to an electronic doorbell, where an entry request sends out a radio signal that triggers a function on the card reader.
As you’re deciding on the key card entry system for your Colorado Springs business, ask yourself what type of doors you need to secure and what type of locks you will be using.
A Key Card Entry System Can Be A Great Solution To Protect What’s Important To Your Business
The right key card entry system can help your business manage access control policies, models, and mechanisms. When coupled with the installation of security cameras, you can rest assured that your business, employees, and inventory are protected even when you are not present.
When you want to fully protect your business and provide access to the right users, consider working with a team of professionals to make sure everything is installed and set up properly.
At System Links, we offer a range of installation services for businesses seeking access control systems in Southern Colorado. Whether you own a large office building or a small mom-and-pop store, we can help. Call our friendly team to get a free quote and learn more about the installation services we offer.
