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Why Install A Door Entry System?

With the increasing prevalence of crime targeting homes and businesses, security has never been more important. A key aspect of security is controlling access to property, and a cost effective and efficient method of doing this is to install a door entry system. Although all following the same basic principle of allowing access to property without the need for a receptionist or gatekeeper, there are a variety of applications for door systems and different methods of allowing access, ranging from basic keypad systems to new biometric systems.

Door entry systems are especially useful in protecting vulnerable residents and clients, and it should be added that aside from the benefit of increased security for the property, the addition of a door entry system could have a beneficial effect on insurance premiums.

Scale of System

The door entry system required will vary with the scale of property being protected.

For most detached and semi-detached homes and small commercial or industrial units, a simple intercom system is usually all that is required. Due to their simplicity, such systems are at the least expensive end of the market.

For larger properties or businesses, more complex systems are required. Low rise systems are suitable for low level blocks of domestic properties, or for businesses requiring a more complex level of access control than is possible with a basic intercom. Usually low rise systems are able to allow access control for up to 32 properties, and may have one button per residence or may be digital, with the residence or room number entered via a standard numeric keypad.

For tower blocks and other large housing projects, the only option is to use a high rise system. Any high rise system purchased will almost certainly use a digital keypad system, allowing the user to quickly contact the resident required.

Audio and Video Systems

The most basic door entry system model involves a keypad and audio link between the person requiring access and the resident or receptionist. Upon arrival at the property, the visitor presses the ‘buzzes’ the desired resident, who is then able to talk to the visitor via an inbuilt intercom system to verify their identity before allowing access.

Video systems allow the tenant or receptionist to see the visitor before granting entry, and can be in colour or black and white. Higher end video systems have the ability to store and recall camera images in case of any incidents needing the involvement of the police.

Methods of Access

The standard method of access for door entry systems is via a keypad. In systems requiring a resident or company employee to allow entry this can be used to request entry to the premises; in other cases a code can be entered to unlock the door. Most modern systems use an alphanumeric keypad, but some simple systems and many older systems can use a matrix of buttons, each pertaining to a particular flat, apartment or office.

An increasingly popular option for door entry systems is the use of proximity access as a means of gaining entry. Users are given an item (either a card, fob or even a watch) which is detected by the system as the user approaches the door. This triggers the unlocking of the door, and the user can enter without having to worry about entering codes etc. An important aspect of proximity access systems is that they do not leave locks as an obvious target for thieves and vandals, leading to less expenditure in replacing broken locks and door frames in the event of an incident.

The most advanced door entry systems now integrate the latest biometric technology. The most common application uses finger print recognition, allowing access to the property with the person placing their fingers on the reader for no more than a couple of seconds.

Access For All

Many door entry systems have features that provide equality of access for people with sensory difficulties. Braille engraving on the intercom housing and braille buttons provide assistance for blind or partially sighted people wishing to enter the property, and it is possible for audio and video systems to be fitted with an induction loop to allow hearing aid wearers to converse with the tenant or employee speaking to them through the intercom.

Static Security

One thing often forgotten when installing a door entry system is the static security of the rest of the building. It would be counterproductive to spend money on a door entry system but leave a fence that could easily be scaled or doors and windows that could be easily forced. When purchasing a system to control access to a building, it is advisable to speak to experts on static security to assess the need for any improvements in that area.

Useful Sites

This section contains other sites of interest to those wishing to use door entry systems.

Abacus Construction Index Directory showing useful construction resources.