An elevator access control is similar to any access control system that serves the purpose of restricting entry to certain places in a building. It works exactly like a regular access control system where an authorized user presents valid credentials to the reader. If credentials are verified, the user gets access. In an elevator access control instead of getting access to a door, an elevator takes you to the floor to which you are allowed access.
In this post, we will look at how an elevator access control system works, how to use an elevator access control system, what are the different configurations of an elevator access control system, what are the different elevator access control credentials, what are the different types of elevator access control systems, and the common problem with elevator access control.
How does an elevator access control system work?
An elevator access control system has three basic components:
- Elevator control buttons
- Access readers
- Access control panel
Elevator control buttons perform the function of opening the door, closing the door, emergency call, emergency stop button, and floor buttons.
An access reader can be an RFID reader, keypad, or biometric scanner. It determines whether or not a user has the appropriate credentials to use the elevator and access certain floors.
An access control panel is the brain of the system that stores all the information of the authorized users and access permissions. It can be an on-site physical device or cloud-based software.
How to use an elevator access control system?
To use an elevator access control, a user calls the elevator, enters the elevator, presents the card to the reader, and presses the button of the floor which the user wants to access. If a user is authorized to access the floor, the elevator will move. Otherwise, it will not move.
What are the different configurations of an elevator access control system?
There are four different types of configurations for an elevator access control system.
Private elevator for general access to any floor
In this type of access control configuration, a user needs the authorization to call the elevator. An access reader is installed outside the elevator. An authorized user uses the credentials to call an elevator. If credentials are verified, the elevator will arrive. Once a user is inside the elevator, a user will be able to select any floor to access.
This type of system is used in multiple-story residential buildings and commercial buildings where the purpose of the elevator access control system is just to ensure that an unauthorized person does not get access to the building.
Public elevator with private access to selected floor
In this type of elevator access control configuration, any user can call the elevator using the elevator button in the lobby. They need to use their credentials when they are inside the elevator. An access reader is placed inside the elevator and a user uses their access credentials such as keycards, fobs, badges, pins, biometrics, or mobile to access the authorized floor.
Private elevator with private access to selected floors
In this type of elevator access control configuration, a user needs the access credentials to both calls the elevator and access the desired floor once inside the elevator. An access reader is installed both inside the elevator and outside the elevator in the lobby.
Destination (or zoned) control systems
In this type of access control system, the elevator system automatically selects the designated floor when a user scans their credentials. This system only allows elevators to be called using the destination operating panel (DOP).
Elevator access control systems can take pre-determined actions depending on trigger status from external systems. To ensure swift action, they can send triggers to external systems like security, video, fire alarm, and emergency systems.
Also Read: All you Need to Know About Access Control System – A Complete Guide
What are the different types of elevator access credentials?
There are four types of elevator access credentials:
- Mobile credentials
- Keycards, fobs, or badges
- PIN or passcode
- Biometric
Corresponding to the elevator access credentials, there are four elevator access control systems:
- Mobile elevator access control system
- Elevator RFID card reader
- Elevator security keypad
- Elevator biometric reader
Each system has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, the mobile elevator access control system eliminates the risk of unauthorized access as mobile credentials cannot be replicated, but it is costlier than other systems. Whereas, an elevator RFID card reader system is cheap but you need to manage the card inventory and there are more security vulnerabilities. So, choose the system accordingly.
Cloud-based system
A cloud-based system is a new generation of elevator access control systems that allows remote management or administrators to give access to the visitors from anywhere, anytime.
What are the different types of elevator access control?
There are three main types of elevator access control you will come across:
- Single elevator access control
- Elevator banks
- Smart elevators
Single elevator access control
This type of elevator access control operates only one elevator in the building. Ideal to be used in small apartments or buildings.
Elevator banks
This type of elevator access control operates multiple elevators in the buildings. Ideal to be used in high-rise commercial buildings with multiple offices.
Smart elevators
This type of elevator access control manages multiple elevators in the buildings. The centralized designation control system (DCS) is used to manage the access. Ideal for commercial buildings with offices.
Common problems with elevator access control system
We all are aware of the benefits of the elevator access control system that enhances security, reduces the risk of unauthorized entry, helps in easy visitor management, and so on. Still, elevator access control systems are not impeccable.
The risks of tailgating and other security vulnerabilities are there. Even with the best system in a place, intruders can find their way. When multiple people are using the elevator an intruder can enter and exit at the same time which is completely natural and rarely looks suspicious.
So, there are security vulnerabilities, but advanced smart elevator systems eliminate the risk by using mobile credentials and video recognition features. So, this is a comprehensive brief of the elevator access control system.
