What Is Access Control, And Why Do You Need It?
Access control systems are something that homeowners are only beginning to add as a standard feature of their homes. If you can afford to upgrade, these systems add a lot of useful features to your home. Here are some things you can do with access control.
What Is Access Control?
The basic principle of access control for homes is that it allows homeowners to control who has access to different parts of the home and when. The actual techniques used for access control will differ, depending on what is being protected.
Access Control for Doors
Your door locks are a very simple form of access control. They don't even need to use electronic parts to control the access. Electronic locks are the gold standard for entry door access control, since there are many ways to customize entry. For instance, you can deny entry to anyone who doesn't have a key code. You can selectively program codes for entry access or denial.
For example, you might have a standard pin that you use for maintenance visits, maids, or other routine services. You can program that code to only work when you're expecting a service person to enter your house. That way, a service person can't come into your home at a later date. Alternately, if someone does enter the home without your permission, and you see that that service code was used, you will have a much more narrow place to start in tracking down who was responsible for the intrusion. And, you can change the codes at any time to control access for people who were previously granted entry to the home.
Access Control for Cabinets
Access control mechanisms for cabinets or drawers are a bit different. You might see a lock that clamps down around the handle, not allowing the cabinet to budge when pulled. The lock releases once a key code is entered. Locks for cabinets are useful because they will help you consolidate important items into a safe space. While you might allow anyone to have access to silverware, you might not want every guest to be able to open your liquor cabinet or your paperwork drawer. Some people with small children find this type of access control useful for controlling access to dangerous items.
Access Control for Rooms
Another thing you can do is have certain entryways in your home controlled. Your bedroom or your storage closet might be off-limits areas that you can block via access control. The possibilities are quite varied, so speak with a locksmith at a company like Midwest Lock & Security for help on planning great access control.