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| The solution employs a combination of Optica readers together with EXcel 4 controllers |
Background
Integrated access control specialist TDSi and its partner CSG Fire and Security have completed the design and installation of a complete access control system for C4L, one of the country’s fastest growing independent internet service providers. Established in 2000, C4L has grown rapidly and now has over 25 data centres across the UK and in Europe. This rapid growth led to the company moving to new, high specification offices in County Gates House, located in the commercial heart of Bournemouth.
Given the sensitive nature of its business (hosting and processing data for thousands of customers around the world) C4L required a high specification security system to protect its building and assets which would integrate elements of both access control and CCTV monitoring, while complementing the modern and clean design of the new offices.
TDSi Solution
The solution developed by TDSi and CSG employs a combination of Optica readers together with EXcel 4 controllers and the company’s integrated access management software, EXgarde PRO. This specification provides not only a high-performance access control system, but also delivers a seamless, fully integrated security solution with the Dedicated Micro’s DS2 multiplexer which controls the CCTV system. To ensure high visibility and traceability of all personnel movements within C4L’s offices, the system is configured so that when any member of staff or visitor uses one of the Optica readers, the associated CCTV camera captures an image of the event, which is then tagged by the DVR and can subsequently be retrieved and viewed from within EXgarde PRO.
"The EXcel controller is ideal for mid- to large-scale applications such as this" |
Integrated Access Control Solution for Leading Internet Service Provider
TDSi’s Optica readers were specified, not only for their performance and operational benefits, but also because the unit’s modern design, with a blue LED, back-lit keypad, met the design principles for the office interior (which features floor to ceiling glass panelled offices, also with blue LED back-lighting). The optional stainless steel unit was specified for this application, affording an elegant and extremely robust housing. Due to its innovative design, Optica keypads have no moving parts to wear out or sabotage and are supplied complete with industry-standard clock & data and Wiegand outputs, making them suitable for operation with all standard access control units.
The EXcel controller is ideal for mid- to large-scale applications such as this; with each unit controlling up to four readers, the whole system provides a flexible, cost-effective solution to meet C4L’s requirements. It also has a standard in-built TCP/IP port to allow connection to modern IT networks, simplifying installation and commissioning. And with a high-capacity database for up to 18,000 users, the system provides great expansion capability and system flexibility to meet C4L’s future needs.
TDSi’s EXgarde PRO software completes the system specification. With ease of integration and expansion key features, the software is capable of integrating many facets of a building’s management and security systems using just a single database and single user interface. In this application EXgarde PRO integrates the access control system with DM’s DS2 multiplexer, providing significant performance, operational and installation advantages – as well as the capability for future expansion with other building management systems, if required.
