NCJ Number
74146
Journal
OFFICE Dated: (October 1978) Pages: 101-102,104
Date Published
1978
Length
3 pages
Annotation
A cardkey microcomputer-based access-control system for building security is described.
Abstract
The system has been installed in 12-story office building in Nashville, Tenn. It allows a single guard to control access to and within the building at night without leaving the guardpost. A coded card is placed in a slot and scanned to determine if it carries the correct facilities code which is unique to the system. The scanner also relays coded numbers to the computer which identifies whether or not the cardholder has ben granted access through a particular door at a particular time. After office hours, the elevators are also included in the system; they will stop only on those floors which have been approved for the cardholder. A certain number of incorrect floor requests is allowed before audible and visual signals alert the guard at the central console. A paper tape printer records invalid transactions in red, and all relevant data associated with them are included. Valid transactions are printed in black, and under the system's roll-call mode of operation an immediate print-out can be obtained of all entry transactions during a specified period of time -- an option which is especially useful during emergencies. A batch-loading capacity allows a number of cards with the same access parameters to be programed into the system at the same time. Card access levels can be easily changed, and cards can be immediately voided upon request. A guard at the console can also monitor the use of emergency and stairwell doors; and with the aid of an outdoor laser intrusion detector which has been added to the system, the guard can control improper access to an open, fifth floor patio area. A reference list is not included. Photographs are present.