IDN Electronic Security Products

Access control is all about giving the right people unhindered access to places, things and information, while keeping unauthorized people out. For centuries, access control meant either locks, guards or a combination of the two. Today’s electronic access control systems deliver better security and more benefits, often at a fraction of the cost.

Security access control systems combine some type of physical barrier with an electronic system for identifying an individual, determining his authority to gain access to that location at that time, and to record the transaction for future evaluation. Generally speaking, an electronic access control system consists of a personal identification device (numeric keypad, card or key reader, biometric sensor, etc.), a control system, a source of power and an electrically controlled locking/unlocking device. All four of these parts might be combined in a standalone electronic lock. In more advanced systems, these separate components are combined to form a system that controls multiple openings, manages thousands of users and stores extensive transaction information. Some electronic access control systems can be integrated with CCTV, alarms, building automation, photo ID and other systems.

Numeric keypads are used to identify individuals based upon a password that, presumably, only they would know. These are usually lower security systems where reduced cost and/or greater convenience are important. Many access control systems use a form of card reader (magnetic stripe, proximity, smart card, etc.) to ensure that the person seeking entry has a valid credential. The highest level of security is usually obtained with biometric readers which confirm a unique physical feature of the user (fingerprint, hand geometry, iris, etc.) or with systems that combine two or more means of identification.

Control systems can enhance security with a number of features. For example, unlike a mechanical key that either operates the lock or doesn’t, an electronic “key” may be programmed to grant access only on certain days of the week, times of the day or number of occasions. Many systems also create an audit trail of card uses that can be compiled into reports for investigative or management purposes.

Electronic locks are available in a wide variety of form factors, each designed for specific physical requirements. In many cases, electronic and mechanical hardware are combined to provide total control of an opening. IDN has extensive experience in both electronic and mechanical hardware. Our professionals are available to help design the right system for your security application.

CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) is an electronic system that enhances our ability to see. It allows us to see what is happening in multiple remote places at the same time. It allows us to store visual data and view it minutes, hours, days or weeks later. It permits us to see what the unaided human eye cannot see. It allows us to combine visual data with other types of information for a multi-dimensional perspective.

While often associated with physical security systems, CCTV is widely used for a vast array of applications. Cameras may be used to watch industrial processes, to monitor environmental conditions or to enhance electronic voice communications with the power of pictures. Businesses are increasingly using CCTV surveillance as a management tool and as a training aid. In the field of security, CCTV can be used to observe and/or record incidents of shoplifting, employee theft, robbery, assault and so on. The existence of a CCTV system can also serve as a deterrent to crimes and other misconduct. In our increasingly litigious society, CCTV can provide strong defense against lawsuits.

Generally speaking, a CCTV system can be divided into four major sections. First there is the image capture. A camera and lens are used to convert visible or invisible light into an electronic signal. The camera/lens combination may also be equipped with a mounting bracket, a protective enclosure and/or a method of pointing the camera at a specific target. From the camera,  signal transmission causes the captured images to be sent to the location(s) where they will be processed. CCTV signals can be transmitted over coaxial cable, twisted-pairs, fiber optics or even wirelessly. At the other end of the transmission there is usually equipment for image processing. This includes combining the signals from multiple cameras into a manageable form, recording images for later retrieval, making the images available for remote access and controlling the cameras, lenses and pointing devices. The final step is image viewing. This involves displaying the live or stored images on a CRT, LCD or other type of monitor.

The most exciting developments in CCTV during the last 10 years have involved transitioning from analog to digital video. Digital video recorders (DVRs) have largely replaced VHS tape recorders. IP cameras are increasingly combined with computer network cabling to improve efficiency and reduce cabling costs. Increasingly sophisticated cameras eliminate many of the problems caused by bad or inadequate lighting. The professional sales team at IDN can help you configure the optimum CCTV system for your specific application.