Access control firm TDSi has launched a new range of Mifare readers to complement its established range of readers, controllers and software systems.

The new readers are available in two variants to suit different security and budgetary requirements, as well as being able to accommodate any existing applications which draw on Mifare technology.

The first system type reads Card Serial Numbers (CSNs), and provides a cost-effective alternative to standard proximity readers. The CSN readers are particularly suitable where there is an existing Mifare population - for example to support cashless vending - and there is a need to add additional access control functionality.

The second type is a sector reader, which securely reads data held in the TDSi-nominated Sector 4 of the Mifare card, using prescribed keys for validation. Using the ‘handshake’ method to ensure mutual authentication between the card and reader, the reader will only accept a card with the correct key.

If Mifare technology is already being used, and the Sector 4 key has been assigned for other operations, Modulus Card Printers is able to supply a reader configuration TDSi card pack, which allows the readers to be re-programmed to accept an alternative key, nominated specifically for access control. Modulus Card Printers is also able to supply TDSi cards with data already populated in Sector 4.

Both readers are fully encapsulated, and so are suitable for use both indoors and out.

TDSi’s technology is fully compatible with the standard Philips Mifare 32 bit chip and fully complies with the requirements of ISO 14443 for contactless smart card technology. It is also Flash-upgradeable meaning that the firmware can be easily and effectively updated when appropriate.

Paxton Access manufacture two types of access control system:

1. Standalone access control.

This type of system may be used to control access on one or many independent doors in a building. Access is gained by using a numeric code, or PIN with a keypad, or by presenting a proximity or magstripe token, depending on which type of reader is fitted.

These systems are programmed at each door. If tokens need to be barred or codes changed, this action must be completed at every door on the system.

Typical applications

• Small business premises
• Sports clubs
• Storage units
• Any small or medium sized site requiring access control

Standalone systems are great for smaller sites with a relatively small number of users, card or token management is simple and the system can be easily extended as requirements change.

2. PC based access control.

Referred to as ‘PC based’ or ‘Networked’ access control, these systems may be used to control one or many doors in a building. Access is gained by using a numeric code, or PIN with a keypad, by presenting a proximity or magstripe token or by ‘possesion’ with hands free tokens depending on which type of reader is fitted. PC based access control offers central control, via a network.

This means that commands given at the PC are sent to each of the doors. A token can be barred from all of the doors instantly. Another benefit of this type of system is flexible control, allowing you to grant different permissions for individuals or groups of users.

Reports may also be generated to see who went where and when. Many systems allow control of additional buildings via existing LAN/WAN. PC based systems are increasingly being used to control other services within buildings, for example intruder alarms, fire doors, lifts and lighting.

Typical applications

• Small/medium premises
• Large corporate premises
• Multiple-site premises
• Government buildings
• Universities
• Sports clubs
• Car parks

PC based systems are great for medium to large site as they make managing large numbers of doors and users easy. The system can be extended very easily and advanced features such as event reporting and integration with CCTV.

Paxton Access has introduced Easyprox nano, a Net2 networked entry system in a door handle that the manufacturer claims “will revolutionise the world of access control”.

The unit has all the capabilities of Net2, Paxton Access’ networked access control system, without any need for any wiring.

Easyprox nano is battery powered so no mains wiring is required. It uses low power, secure wireless technology to communicate to the Net2 PC via a Net2Air bridge.

A Paxton statement said: “Easyprox nano can be installed in places that were just not possible before and it cuts labour time dramatically.

“Easyprox nanos can be added to existing Net2 systems with the utmost ease. Easyprox nano now makes it possible to expand a two door system to a 10 door system in a flash and for a fraction of the cost. Plus, the wireless capability of the unit makes installation completely hassle free.”

Paxton Access has also designed the Net2Air site surveyor kit, which it describes as “the essential tool for faultless Easyprox nano installation”.

The site surveyor checks signal strength between the Easyprox nano and a Net2Air bridge prior to installation, to ensure accuracy when fitting Easyprox nano.

Easyprox nano is a single door access control unit that can be mixed on site with Paxton Access’ other Net2 products: Net2 nano, Net2 plus and Net2 classic

In the world like we live in today, photo ID badges are no longer a novelty but a necessity seen in businesses across the country. Many of these badges feature full color photos and printing on both sides. Many include smart card chips, magnetic stripes, bar codes and other pieces of technology that allow employees to access buildings, sign in and out of work and more.

Many businesses pay thousands of pounds to have these photo ID badges created.

Could this be done in-house to save money?

As with just about anything done in-house, creating photo IDs on location will save you money. Although a little overwhelming at first, once all the pieces are put together, creating a photo ID is relatively easy and requires little time. ID card printers are now compatible with all PC systems running Windows XP and Vista.

The first thing any business will need to create photo identification badges in-house is a photo ID card printer. There are several models available from a variety of manufacturers including Zebra Card Technologies. Zebra Card printers all print edge-to-edge ID cards in full high-resolution color. A few options that can be selected in the printer range are the ability to print on both sides, encode smart cards and write to magnetic stripes. Printers also vary by printing speed, hopper capacity and other technical variables.

Almost all ID card printers manufactured today use a process called die sublimation, which uses a printer ribbon with four panels. These panels are yellow, magenta, cyan and black (YMCKO). The fifth panel called an overlay (O), places a clear panel over the printed card to extend the life of the image and prevent scratches.

Die sublimation printers use a thermal print head to burn the image onto a plastic PVC ID card. If full color printing is out of your budget, single color monochrome ribbons are available for most printers and are a fraction the cost of a full-color ribbon.

In order to layout, design and create a photo ID, you need to invest in some card creation software. The most popular ID card software is CardFive Vision from NFive which includes an easy-to-use template, making it easy to type text, paste pictures and create a base template for all your ID cards.

Along with the printer, software and ribbons, you will also need cards. Most ID cards used are known as 30 mil CR-80 - the same size and thickness of a standard credit card. The “80″ in CR-80 is the size of the card. Thirty-mil is the thickness of the card. Although less common, some businesses use a thinner 10 mil thickness for cards.

Businesses that use proximity cards will often use a 10 mil CR-80 card with an adhesive back. Once printed, a backing is removed from the pressure-sensitive card where it is then stuck to the proximity card. Many CR-80 PVC cards are also available with smart chips (integrated circuit card) and magnetic stripes.

Once printed, many ID cards are slot punched in order to be used on a lanyard, badge reel or badge strap clip. Many businesses will also use a badge holder, horizontal or vertical, to hold the ID card where it can then be attached to a lanyard or strap clip. Using lanyards, badge reels or strap clips makes it easy to present and access identity cards.

Maintenance on ID card printers is easy. A wide assortment of cleaning cards and ribbons are available, which help keep the thermal print head clean and running at top efficiency. Many printers will let you know when they need to be cleaned. If an older printer is being used, symptoms of a needed cleaning may include blurred text or irregular colors. Regular maintenance will keep the ID card out of the shop and will allow you to print ID cards on a regular and uninterrupted basis.

Whether you need an occasional ID card, replacement cards or need to print 100s of cards for a business, photo ID card printers save money and are convenient to use.

Feel free to contact Modulus Card Printers for more information on ID card printers.

Controlling access to a facility can be difficult; authorised staff, contractors and visitors must be given access to the appropriate areas of their facilities whilst keeping unauthorised people out. It is also important to monitor and record which staff members have accessed which areas of the facility and when.

The choice of system is complex and it is often difficult particularly for businesses who may not have a dedicated security manager with the necessary experience.

Choosing a system should not require a great deal of expensive installation, and the system should have the ability to be increased in size according to future requirements.

With the right system ongoing costs can be kept to a minimum without compromising security.

Physical access control can utilise a variety of authentication methods such as Smart Cards, PINs, biometrics or a combination of these solutions.

Choosing the right Smart Card is vital. It should be:
- A card that can be personalised.
- A card that is easy to use.
- A card that is easy to manage.
- A card that can be implemented on current applications and supports future requirements.
- One card that is capable of being used in many ways such as access control, time and attendance, computer and application logon or storage of personal data for e-cash payments.
- A card that is secure.

Contactless smart cards or proximity cardsfrom manufacturers such as Mifare, Paxton Access, TDSi, PAC and HID allow a user to present their card to the reader and the system will read the cards’ credentials and, if authenticated, pass this information to the back-end system, which holds that individuals access rights.

There are no contact surfaces to wear or get damaged on the card or reader; this means a longer life for both card and reader adding further savings.

As these Proximity cards have no contact plates for data exchange, communication with a reader is achieved using wireless technology, commonly referred to as RF. The energy to power the card is transmitted via a high frequency signal from the reader to the card, sending encrypted data bi-directionally and providing a fast and very efficient data exchange. Proximity is a close read range technology, up to 10cm, and is ideally suited for security applications.

It is important to ensure that when choosing a card/system, it complies with existing ISO standards and the cards used are genuine products.