Access control is a fundamental aspect of security, and the tools we use for it have evolved significantly. Think about it – keys have been around for centuries, but theyre easily lost, copied, or even forgotten. Thats where modern access control systems, using keypads, RFID, and biometrics, offer a real upgrade.
Keypads offer a simple electronic solution. Instead of a physical key, you punch in a code. This is definitely more convenient than carrying a bunch of keys, and it offers a decent level of security, especially if the codes are changed regularly. However, theres always the risk of someone observing your code, or even guessing it if its something predictable like a birthday.
RFID, or Radio-Frequency Identification, takes things a step further. You use a card or fob that contains a microchip, and when you hold it near a reader, the system grants access. Think of your office building or parking garage – chances are they use RFID. Its more secure than a simple keypad because its harder to duplicate the chip, and theres no code to observe. However, lost or stolen cards can still be a vulnerability.
Biometrics offers the highest level of security. This technology uses unique biological traits for identification – fingerprints, facial recognition, even iris scans. Its much harder to fake these characteristics, making unauthorized access extremely difficult. Think about using your fingerprint to unlock your phone – thats biometrics in action. While generally very secure, biometric systems can be more expensive to implement and maintain, and there are privacy concerns that need to be considered.
Ultimately, the best access control system depends on the specific security needs and budget. A simple keypad might be sufficient for a small business, while a large corporation or government facility might require the robust security of biometrics. Its all about finding the right balance between security, convenience, and cost.
Intercom systems, particularly those with audio/video capabilities and remote access, have become a staple in modern security setups, offering convenience alongside enhanced safety. However, this convenience comes with its own set of security considerations that we need to address to ensure these systems dont become vulnerabilities themselves.
One primary concern is access control. While the ability to unlock a door remotely or see whos at the gate from your phone is undeniably useful, it also presents a potential entry point for unauthorized individuals. Weak or default passwords are an easy target for hackers. Similarly, if the system isnt properly configured, it might be susceptible to brute-force attacks. Therefore, strong, unique passwords are a must, and enabling two-factor authentication where possible adds an extra layer of protection. Regularly updating the intercom systems firmware is also crucial to patch any known security flaws.
The very nature of audio/video intercoms raises privacy concerns. The potential for eavesdropping or unauthorized recording is real, especially with systems connected to the internet. Choosing systems with end-to-end encryption is vital to protect the confidentiality of conversations and video feeds. Its also important to be aware of who has access to the system and what permissions they have. Limiting access to only essential personnel and regularly reviewing these permissions can mitigate the risk of misuse.
Remote access, while convenient, amplifies these risks. If a hacker gains access to your network, they could potentially control your intercom system from anywhere in the world. This highlights the importance of securing your home network with a strong firewall and robust Wi-Fi security. Consider using a VPN for added security, especially when accessing the intercom system remotely.
Finally, physical security of the intercom hardware itself shouldnt be overlooked. Exposed wiring or easily accessible control panels can be tampered with. Ensuring the system is professionally installed and the hardware is robust and tamper-resistant can prevent physical breaches.
In conclusion, while intercom systems offer significant security benefits, they also introduce potential vulnerabilities. By addressing access control, privacy concerns, and the implications of remote access, and by ensuring the physical security of the hardware, we can harness the power of these systems while minimizing the risks. A little proactive attention to these security considerations can go a long way in ensuring your intercom system remains a valuable asset rather than a security liability.
Security isnt just about locking doors anymore; its about smart systems that protect people and property proactively. Safety sensors and emergency access play a crucial role in this modern approach. Think of them as the intelligent eyes and ears – and sometimes the escape routes – of a robust security setup.
Safety sensors cover a wide spectrum. Motion detectors can alert you to unusual activity inside or outside a building, potentially deterring intruders before they even attempt entry. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential life-saving devices, providing early warning of fire or dangerous gas leaks. Flood sensors can prevent costly water damage by detecting leaks and triggering alarms or even shutting off water supplies automatically. These sensors not only enhance security but also contribute to overall peace of mind.
Emergency access, while seemingly contradictory to security, is a vital component. In critical situations, quick and controlled access for first responders can be the difference between life and death. This might involve strategically placed keypads for fire departments, remotely controlled access points, or even break-glass emergency exits equipped with alarms. The key is to balance ease of access in emergencies with preventing unauthorized entry under normal circumstances.
Integrating these elements with other security measures like access control systems and intercoms creates a comprehensive and layered approach to safety. Imagine a scenario where a smoke detector triggers an alarm, automatically unlocks emergency exits, notifies the fire department, and simultaneously displays the location of the fire on a security monitor. This integrated response saves valuable time and can significantly mitigate potential harm.
In essence, safety sensors and emergency access are no longer optional extras but integral parts of a modern security strategy. They offer a proactive approach to safety, providing early warning of potential dangers and facilitating rapid response in emergencies. By integrating these technologies thoughtfully, we can create safer and more secure environments for everyone.
Perimeter security is the first line of defense for any property, acting as a deterrent and providing crucial early warning of potential threats. Integrating various technologies, especially alarms and CCTV, significantly enhances its effectiveness. No longer are these systems isolated entities, but rather interconnected components of a comprehensive security strategy. Consider a scenario: a motion sensor detects movement along a fence line after hours. The integrated system immediately triggers an alarm, activates the relevant CCTV cameras to focus on the area, and perhaps even notifies security personnel or a monitoring service. This immediate, coordinated response is the power of integration.
CCTV cameras, once primarily for recording events after the fact, now play a proactive role. Advanced analytics can differentiate between a swaying tree branch and a person attempting to scale a fence, reducing false alarms and allowing security personnel to focus on genuine threats. Furthermore, thermal imaging cameras can detect intruders even in complete darkness, providing 24/7 surveillance capability. The integration with alarm systems allows for targeted responses, like activating spotlights or triggering audible warnings to deter potential intruders.
Integrating perimeter security with other security considerations, like access control and intercoms, adds another layer of protection. Imagine an employee arriving late at night. They use their access card at a perimeter gate, which is verified against the access control system. Simultaneously, the CCTV system captures their image, and the integrated system logs the access event. If an unauthorized person attempts to tailgate, the system can trigger an alarm and alert security. Intercoms integrated into the system allow for two-way communication, enabling verification of identity before granting access.
The benefits of perimeter security integration are clear. It provides proactive threat detection, reduces false alarms, improves response times, enhances situational awareness, and strengthens overall security posture. By weaving together alarms, CCTV, access control, and intercoms, we create a robust security fabric that protects our assets and personnel more effectively than isolated systems ever could. This integrated approach is no longer a luxury but a necessity in todays complex security landscape.
A gate or gateway is a point of entry to or from a space enclosed by walls. The word is derived from Proto-Germanic *gatan, meaning an opening or passageway.[1] Synonyms include yett (which comes from the same root word) and portal. The concept originally referred to the gap or hole in the wall or fence, rather than a barrier which closed it. Gates may prevent or control the entry or exit of individuals, or they may be merely decorative. The moving part or parts of a gateway may be considered "doors", as they are fixed at one side whilst opening and closing like one.[2]
A gate may have a latch that can be raised and lowered to both open a gate or prevent it from swinging.[3] Gate operation can be either automated or manual. Locks are also used on gates to increase security.
Larger gates can be used for a whole building, such as a castle or fortified town. Doors can also be considered gates when they are used to block entry as prevalent within a gatehouse.
A fence is a structure that encloses an area, typically outdoors, and is usually constructed from posts that are connected by boards, wire, rails or netting.[1] A fence differs from a wall in not having a solid foundation along its whole length.[2]
Alternatives to fencing include a ditch (sometimes filled with water, forming a moat).
A balustrade or railing is a fence to prevent people from falling over an edge, most commonly found on a stairway, landing, or balcony. Railing systems and balustrades are also used along roofs, bridges, cliffs, pits, and bodies of water.
Another aim of using fence is to limit the intrusion attempt into a property by malicious intruders. In support of these barriers there are sophisticated technologies that can be applied on fence itself and strengthen the defence of territory reducing the risk.
The elements that reinforce the perimeter protection are:
In most developed areas the use of fencing is regulated, variously in commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. Height, material, setback, and aesthetic issues are among the considerations subject to regulation.
The following types of areas or facilities often are required by law to be fenced in, for safety and security reasons:
Servitudes[6] are legal arrangements of land use arising out of private agreements. Under the feudal system, most land in England was cultivated in common fields, where peasants were allocated strips of arable land that were used to support the needs of the local village or manor. By the sixteenth century the growth of population and prosperity provided incentives for landowners to use their land in more profitable ways, dispossessing the peasantry. Common fields were aggregated and enclosed by large and enterprising farmers—either through negotiation among one another or by lease from the landlord—to maximize the productivity of the available land and contain livestock. Fences redefined the means by which land is used, resulting in the modern law of servitudes.[7]
In the United States, the earliest settlers claimed land by simply fencing it in. Later, as the American government formed, unsettled land became technically owned by the government and programs to register land ownership developed, usually making raw land available for low prices or for free, if the owner improved the property, including the construction of fences. However, the remaining vast tracts of unsettled land were often used as a commons, or, in the American West, "open range" as degradation of habitat developed due to overgrazing and a tragedy of the commons situation arose, common areas began to either be allocated to individual landowners via mechanisms such as the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act and fenced in, or, if kept in public hands, leased to individual users for limited purposes, with fences built to separate tracts of public and private land.
Ownership of a fence on a boundary varies. The last relevant original title deed(s)[8] and a completed seller's property information form may document which side has to put up and has installed any fence respectively; the first using "T" marks/symbols (the side with the "T" denotes the owner); the latter by a ticked box to the best of the last owner's belief with no duty, as the conventionally agreed conveyancing process stresses, to make any detailed, protracted enquiry.[9] Commonly the mesh or panelling is in mid-position. Otherwise it tends to be on non-owner's side so the fence owner might access the posts when repairs are needed but this is not a legal requirement.[10] Where estate planners wish to entrench privacy a close-boarded fence or equivalent well-maintained hedge of a minimum height may be stipulated by deed. Beyond a standard height planning permission is necessary.
Where a rural fence or hedge has (or in some cases had) an adjacent ditch, the ditch is normally in the same ownership as the hedge or fence, with the ownership boundary being the edge of the ditch furthest from the fence or hedge.[11] The principle of this rule is that an owner digging a boundary ditch will normally dig it up to the very edge of their land, and must then pile the spoil on their own side of the ditch to avoid trespassing on their neighbour. They may then erect a fence or hedge on the spoil, leaving the ditch on its far side. Exceptions exist in law, for example where a plot of land derives from subdivision of a larger one along the centre line of a previously existing ditch or other feature, particularly where reinforced by historic parcel numbers with acreages beneath which were used to tally up a total for administrative units not to confirm the actual size of holdings, a rare instance where Ordnance Survey maps often provide more than circumstantial evidence namely as to which feature is to be considered the boundary.
On private land in the United Kingdom, it is the landowner's responsibility to fence their livestock in. Conversely, for common land, it is the surrounding landowners' duty to fence the common's livestock out such as in large parts of the New Forest. Large commons with livestock roaming have been greatly reduced by 18th and 19th century Acts for enclosure of commons covering most local units, with most remaining such land in the UK's National Parks.
A 19th-century law requires railways to be fenced to keep people and livestock out.[12] It is also illegal to trespass on railways, incurring a fine of up to £1000.
Distinctly different land ownership and fencing patterns arose in the eastern and western United States. Original fence laws on the east coast were based on the British common law system, and rapidly increasing population quickly resulted in laws requiring livestock to be fenced in. In the west, land ownership patterns and policies reflected a strong influence of Spanish law and tradition, plus the vast land area involved made extensive fencing impractical until mandated by a growing population and conflicts between landowners. The "open range" tradition of requiring landowners to fence out unwanted livestock was dominant in most of the rural west until very late in the 20th century, and even today, a few isolated regions of the west still have open range statutes on the books. More recently, fences are generally constructed on the surveyed property line as precisely as possible. Today, across the nation, each state is free to develop its own laws regarding fences. In many cases for both rural and urban property owners, the laws were designed to require adjacent landowners to share the responsibility for maintaining a common boundary fenceline. Today, however, only 22 states have retained that provision.
Some U.S. states, including Texas, Illinois, Missouri, and North Carolina, have enacted laws establishing that purple paint markings on fences (or trees) are the legal equivalent of "No Trespassing" signs. The laws are meant to spare landowners, particularly in rural areas, from having to continually replace printed signs that often end up being stolen or obliterated by the elements.[13]
The value of fences and the metaphorical significance of a fence, both positive and negative, has been extensively utilized throughout western culture. A few examples include:
Notes
Bibliography
An electric gate is a type of gate that can be opened and closed using an electrically powered mechanism.
Driveway gate openers can be the rollback (sliding) type that retracts a gate along the fence or wall on wheels or bearing, or the swing type that draws the gate open or closed on hinges. They are usually operated by a remote controller or a sensor
Articulated gate openers can be used for gates with wide posts allowing opening in small spaces.[1] An easy system for DIY installers as they are simple to install but not as aesthetically pleasing as other motor designs. Also known as Crank arm operators, they are the main type of automation system sold in France, where low aluminium gates are often used.
Under-gate Jack operators usually control the gate by directly moving the pivot point of each gate leaf. This makes the unit ideal cosmetically and also allows for up to 180 degrees of leaf swing as required. However controlling the pivot point of the gate, is like opening a door by twisting the hinge, and as so is very difficult due to the loads needed at that point. This is highlighted with snap, as the gate has to change direct, as soon as it can. For this reason they are recommend as only suitable for ‘Domestic’ systems in a low risk of abuse environment. Another major consideration with the use of under-gate units is that of water immersion/ingress and warranty voidance. If the water table is high or the drainage of the unit's foundation box inadequate throughout the systems life, then water ingress and unit failure is increased.
Ram or link arm units are usually simpler to install and maintain, they are visible to otherwise ignorant abuse and as they fix down along each gate leaf, they also have an obvious and sometimes major, mechanical advantage over Jacks. Therefore, Rams are far more suitable on Multi-user & commercial systems. Also the manual release is always above ground, making it often more user friendly in operation.
If space is an issue or the driveway behind the gates is on a steep incline, a better option would be a sliding gate. Sliding gates are also very popular in a commercial environment. Sliding gates are also used for cantilever gate systems.
One of the first electric gates was invented by a Canadian Fred W. Watson in 1881. It was designed to be used for railway systems.[2] In 1884, a number of American newspapers reported that the French railway companies were about to adopt an electric gate opener. “A catch connected with an electro-magnet keeps a gate closed,” reported The National Tribune on October 9, 1884.[3] One of the early demonstrations of such gates in the United States was arranged by the short-lived Toulmin Electric Railway Gate Company in 1887, in Baltimore.[4] At the end of the 19th century, electric gates were also used at horse racing tracks.[5]
The first commercial electric gate systems were hydraulic and designed for reliability and ease of use. The cost of the hydraulic systems however meant that other companies started producing more affordable electromechanical alternatives. Hydraulic motors are the preferred choice on large and heavy gates as they can generate high levels of torque, electromechanical systems designed for lower usage domestic installations because they can be produced more cost effectively.[6]
The backbone of any electric gate, whether automatic or not, is the electric gate motor, two distinct motor types exist hydraulic, or electromechanical. This is the electric device which actually enables the electric gate to open and close without having to manually push the gate.
The safety of an automated gate is an important consideration, in the European Union, automated gate safety is specified by a series of European Normalisations. An automated gate that has not been fitted with safety in mind can potentially become a major hazard particularly to untrained users. Various safety devices are available to make sure that your gates meet the highest of European or American safety standards.
Since electric gates operate slowly, they are susceptible to "tailgating" threats, in which a person or vehicle sneaks in behind an authorized user.[7] If security is a concern, a video surveillance camera should be installed.[7]
Electric gates alone, however solid and imposing they may be, cannot guarantee a completely secure environment electric locks, are often needed to boost the locking effectiveness of the gate motors. Electric gates are recommended to be used in combination with other security features to install a full security system. A few of these features are closed circuits with security cameras, additional gates in conjunction with the main gate, electronic keycards and keypads, security guards.[8]
Aside from the additional security features that should go with parking barrier gates, electric security gates often offer safety features like sensors that determine when there is an obstruction to prevent the electronic gate from swinging into a vehicle or closing on somebody's hands. To prevent the electronic gates from being damaged by irresponsible drivers driving fast speed bumps are also commonly placed before gate entrances to slow down vehicles.
In the United States all the electric gate installations must meet Underwriters Laboratories 325 (UL 325) standard while in Europe installations must meet with the Machinery directive 2006/42/EC with EN13241-1 being the regulations concerning gates.[9][10][11][12]
The installer of the gate is responsible for the conformity to regulation, not the manufacturer. The two main EN regulations that then apply are EN 12453 which describes the safety levels that should be observed when installing a gate and EN12445 which describes the testing method that must be undertaken.[13]
The major points are the maximum amount of force at certain test points. Example - a maximum of 400N of force can be applied in the last 50, 300 and 500 mm of travel of a gate, after the initial impact the force must drop to 150N within 0.75 of a second and reduce to 25N within 5 seconds. During the mid travel of a gate the allowable force is 1400N. A full risk assessment of the gates must take place with all crush, cutting points shown to the client with appropriate protection devices offered, a recommended maintenance program should also be provided. Finally the installer must confirm that all electrical equipment fitted has the European CE mark all the time.
To conform to these regulations the gate system must be checked with a calibrated force tester and the full results kept in a technical file for 7 years. If the gate is not tested it does not comply.
Most gate kits can be fitted with safety equipment so that these limits are achieved and so cover that part of EN13241-1.
In September 2010, following two incidents in Bridgend and Manchester, when children were killed by sliding gates, the UK Health and Safety Executive issued 2 safety notices aimed at gate manufacturers and installers, demanding them to comply with the Annex A of BS EN 12453:2001 standard.[14][15]
In recent years, aluminium has emerged as the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK, and for good reason. One of the key reasons for this shift is the ease with which aluminium gates can meet force limitation guidance. Force limitation refers to the maximum amount of force that a gate can exert on an object or person, ensuring safety and minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries. With lightweight aluminium gates, meeting these force limitation guidelines becomes much more achievable, as they require less force to open and close compared to heavier materials such as wrought iron or steel.
Another advantage of aluminium gates is their compatibility with brushless motor operators. Brushless motors offer numerous benefits over traditional brushed motors, including higher efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements. Aluminium gates, being lightweight, work well with brushless motor operators, as the motors do not have to work as hard to maneuver the gates. This not only enhances the overall performance and reliability of the gate system but also contributes to energy efficiency, leading to cost savings in the long run.
Furthermore, aluminium gates provide additional advantages such as resistance to rust and corrosion, making them a durable and low-maintenance option. They are also highly customizable, allowing homeowners to choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and finishes to match their aesthetic preferences. Additionally, aluminium is a sustainable material as it can be recycled, aligning with the growing trend of eco-consciousness in the construction and home improvement industries.
[16]
Overall, the combination of meeting force limitation guidance more easily, compatibility with brushless motor operators, durability, low maintenance, and customizability has made aluminium the material of choice for driveway gates in the UK. With its numerous benefits, it offers homeowners a reliable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing option for enhancing the security and curb appeal of their properties.
Evergreen Electric Gates installed a gate at my entrance a couple of days back. Logan was very helpful in answering all my doubts. His crew did a fantastic job. The gate is visually impressive and the pricing was highly reasonable. I am extremely pleased with their quality of work and service!
I highly recommend Evegreen Electric Gate ! Logan and his crew were professional, friendly, and easy to work with. Gate posts, automatic gate, and fence were completed well and in a timely fashion.
After completing an inquiry on their website, we received a prompt response which was refreshing. They sent David out to come see what we wanted, took measurements & notes and was very professional & personable! It was a pleasure working with him from start to finish! The installation team lead by Roberto was also dedicated & precise, making sure we got what we wanted! We couldn’t be happier with the outcome! Awesome gate, glides easy & so happy we can latch & lock! THANK YOU TO ALL THE STAFF & TEAM! We’re extremely pleased and grateful!
Logan was prompt and arrived as scheduled and was very polite and friendly. We took the time to discuss my options, as was very clear about the costs. The steel gate itself was fine, so we only needed an installation of new LiftMaster dual swing gate system. Though my gate required the fabrication of new mounting arms, Logan fabricated, welded, and painted them on site. Logan offered us a price that was very fair; he was able to get us scheduled within the next week, and and the installation job was completed in less than a day. Thank you Logan and Evergreen Electric Gates NW.