You won’t have to worry anymore about losing the keys to your home or fumbling for the right one under duress; those days are gone. Modern access control long range card readers are being welcomed even in homes to ease and provide security. These improved gadgets provide a lot of benefits rather than the normal use of the key, and that can only mean you’re adding value to your business.
So, why would you need a card reader system?
First, security is very important. The use of card readers ensures much higher security than keys, which are very easily lost, stolen, or duplicated. This electronic service can be used to grant permissions or access prohibitions to a place so that authorized people can enter. It is very important for sensitive information and the protection of assets.
Second, card readers offer unmatched convenience. Think of how easy it is to swipe a card instead of fumbling around with keys, especially for those who have to take care of a handful of doors or access points in a day. This clear process saves time and reduces frustration, allowing people to go on with their work.
Thirdly, card readers offer valuable functionalities for follow-up and audit. Information on the identity of who has access to which areas and at what times could be known. This may give a clear lead to incident response, suspicious activity, and environmental security.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Card Reader
The following are primary considerations when choosing an ideal card reader, depending on your specific needs or priorities.
1. Types of Card Readers:
There are various types of card readers. Some of the common ones are, and they bear their advantages and constraints:
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wired readers provide solid connections but need to be installed professionally. On the contrary, wireless readers are flexible, though many times they have a shorter reach and require battery replacement.
- Keypad: Offers an opportunity in which the PIN code is entered by the user to be granted an opportunity, but it can be less secure compared to other card-based solutions and expensive ones as well.
- Biometric: It is ultimately secure, since distinct body identifiers, such as fingerprints or iris scans, will be used, although they come with an extra cost.
2. Compatibility and Technologies:
Card readers apply several technologies for interfacing access control systems with the user. Most common options:
- Magstripe: The simplest, oldest, and thus most wear-prone technology.
- Wiegand: A stable technology with cheap production costs that is often used in conjunction with others.
- RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification): Further safeguarding, whereby no contact is required, is established with a much stronger reading distance.
- Barcode and QR Code: Least reliable but applicable for some uses.
3. Security:
Security has to be one of the leading determinants when choosing a card reader. Look for the following features:
- Encryption: This is key in preventing unauthorized persons from gaining access to information transmitted between the card and the reader.
- Authentication: This is key in making sure the person seeking access is actually who he claims to be.
- Tamper Detection: Will alert in case anybody tries to inflict physical damage upon the reader.
4. Budget:
The reader, which is budget-friendly, allows easy access to biometric security for everyone and everywhere. The costs of card reader systems differ due to aspects such as technology, features, and the number of readers required. Take into account your budget and give priority to features that suit your security and convenience requirements.
Top 5 Card Readers to Consider
Having explored the key factors to consider when choosing a card reader, let’s dive into some of the leading brands and their standout features:
1. HID Global:
A global leader in providing security-centric solutions, HID card reader offers an extensive range of card readers that are suitable for all industry scopes, from healthcare to finance and government. Their fame is in:
Durability and reliability: built to last in some of the harshest environments with heavy usage.
Scalability: Easily grow your system to adapt to more users and access points as your business grows.
Multi-technology options: Offer your readers the doors that come compatible with a variety of card technologies, from RFID to Wiegand, that will be of your convenience.
2. Brivo:
When it comes to consideration for cloud-based access control, there isn’t much out there that tops Brivo. Your system is reachable from a mobile app, and it comes with:
Ease of installation and configuration: This is ideal for businesses that want a simple and straightforward set-up.
Integration with other security systems: Brivo system easily integrates with security cameras and other existing systems to provide all-in-one security. The ecosystem includes the following:
Doors Unlocked through Mobiles: Any of the employees, and authorized persons can unlock the doors through mobile phones and do not need to carry along physical cards.
3. Openpath:
This stands as much for design and a slick look as for equal functionality. Openpath readers are stylish and minimalistic, fitting into any space. They also offer readers the following options:
Multiple ways of access: ranging from card tapping to mobile apps and even PIN entry.
Advanced features: The Openpath readers come with advanced features, such as contact tracing capabilities that provide way more functionality than an average access control product.
Ultrafast reading: Make sure the smooth and quick access point entry of users with Openpath’s super-fast reading speed.
4. Kisi:
For an all-in-one solution that offers speed and versatility, Kisi might be the right provider. Features of their readers include:
Quick authorization: Provide access to authorized personnel in milliseconds, suitable for places with dense populations.
Multi-technology support: Kisi has readers that support multiple card technologies, from RFID to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), for multi-purpose flexibility.
Advanced security features: Kisi is built on a deep foundation of security features such as two-factor authentication and tamper detection, which provide the environment with an extremely secure setting to build trust.
5. Verkada:
The access control from Verkada provides a comprehensive solution for use by large-scale businesses. Its main features for their cloud-based platform include:
Integrated video security: Verkada readers integrate access control seamlessly with high-definition video surveillance, all in one place, giving the user a full view of his or her security environment.
Scalability and remote management: If the entire system is brought together, it can be managed from a remote location; this has, therefore, become a favourite system for many organizations with multiple locations.
Advanced analytics: Leverage the strong analytics features of Verkada to receive insights of value about patterns of access and potential security hazards.
More Card Reader Brands for Your Business
These brands that we are about to mention might not cross your mind as of now, but they are definitely worth mentioning as well. Consider the following for your wide array of choices.
ButterflyMX: The video intercom with a built-in RFID reader is designed for the organization of access control to buildings and gates.
Doorking: Specialized in long-range RFID readers, which would be optimal for the access control of parking lots.
2N: This company produces stylishly designed Bluetooth and RFID card readers, as well as being the most flexible on the market.
Beyond the Reader: Critical Installation Factors
Choosing the right long range card readers is just the first step. Consider the additional following factors for this to be successful:
Professional Installation: Although some of the card reader systems look user-friendly, proper configuration and integration are imperative to be able to get the best performance and security features. It is highly recommended to get assistance from a certified installer so that your system is properly set up and meets your needs.
Costs: When budgeting for the roll-out, remember that the total cost of ownership really extends beyond that of the card readers. Think through installation, software licenses, and ongoing maintenance expenses.
Scalability: Keep in mind the future growth plans of your company while going for any card reader system. Make sure the selected system is capable of adaptation for more users and access points as your business grows.
