✅ Equipment Required for an Access Control System
An access control system includes a combination of hardware and software components that work together to secure physical or digital access to buildings, rooms, or systems. The required equipment can vary depending on the size and type of system (e.g. small office vs. large enterprise), but here are the essential components:
🧩 1. Access Control Panel / Controller
Function: Acts as the “brain” of the system. It receives data from readers and determines whether access should be granted or denied.
Type:
Centralized controller (for multiple doors)
Standalone controller (for single-door systems)
🛠️ 2. Card Readers / Biometric Readers
Function: Authenticates a person’s identity using credentials.
Types:
RFID readers (for keycards/fobs)
NFC or Bluetooth readers (for mobile credentials)
Biometric scanners (fingerprint, facial recognition, iris)
PIN pads (for code entry)
🪪 3. Credentials
Function: Used by users to identify themselves to the access system.
Types:
RFID cards/fobs
Mobile apps (via Bluetooth/NFC)
Biometric data (fingerprints, face scans)
Keypad codes
🚪 4. Electronic Door Locks
Function: Lock or unlock the door when access is granted.
Types:
Electromagnetic locks (Maglocks) – strong but require continuous power.
Electric strikes – work with mechanical locksets and only use power during activation.
Smart locks – often used in residential or small business setups.
⚡ 5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Function: Provides electricity to the control panel, door locks, and readers.
Often includes:
Battery backup
Surge protection
Fuse protection
📡 6. Network Components
(For IP-based systems)
Function: Connects the system to a central server or cloud dashboard.
Includes:
Switches
Routers
Ethernet cables (Cat5e/Cat6)
PoE (Power over Ethernet) injectors or switches
🖥️ 7. Access Control Software
Function: Used to configure, monitor, and manage the access control system.
Features:
User/credential management
Scheduling access times
Audit logs and reporting
Integration with alarms/CCTV
🔔 8. Exit Devices / Request-to-Exit (REX)
Function: Allows users to exit freely without credentials.
Types:
Motion sensors
Push-to-exit buttons
Panic bars (for emergency exits)
🎥 9. Optional Integrations
CCTV Cameras: For visual verification of access events.
Alarm Systems: Trigger alerts for unauthorized access or forced entry.
Intercom Systems: For two-way communication and remote access approval.
📦 Summary Table
Component Purpose
Access Control Panel Brain of the system
Card/Biometric Reader Credential input
Credentials (card/biometric) Identify user
Electronic Lock Secures the door
Power Supply Powers devices
Network Hardware Communication between components
Software Manage and monitor access
Exit Devices / REX Allows safe and free exit
Optional (CCTV, alarms) Enhances security and auditing
🏢 Example: Equipment Setup for an Office Door
Device Example
Controller HID Mercury Controller
Reader HID iCLASS or biometric reader
Credential RFID Keycard
Lock Electric Strike Lock
Exit Device Motion Sensor + Push-to-Exit
Power Supply 12V DC PSU with battery backup
Software Web-based access control dashboard
🔐 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right access control equipment depends on:
Number of users and doors
Level of security needed
Integration with other systems (like alarms or video surveillance)
Whether cloud or on-premises control is preferred
Let me know if you’d like help designing a system for a specific building or scenario.