I was reminded that 20 years ago, I programmed my first access control panel. I remember it fondly. GE Topaz system on a university campus. Each panel managed two doors and we did an entire campus. It was strangely exciting, there were key cards, magnets, door strikes, schedules and access tiers. Not only did I have to master it, I had to teach the staff how to maintain it.
In today’s world you have more technology in a smart lock on your front door. Walmart and Amazon can facilitate delivery personnel leaving produce in your fridge or packages in your garage. What used to cost Thousands of dollars can be achieved in a home for less than $200.
On the commercial side we still need the more expensive systems because they have to work in commercial architecture and in conjunction with other life safety systems like fire alarms, security alarms, sprinkler systems, and redundant power.
In the last 20 years we have trained on and implemented access control systems large and small. Some older systems used to be based on Adobe flash and Internet Explorer. Modern systems have apps, HTML 5 and 2-step verification. This is one of the most important and painstaking part of what we do for clients as it affects the safety and security.
Below is an older wiring diagram of a older interlogix board that died soon after our client acquired a office space in a Class A Office space. We had to source and program the replacement by the close of business. Quite a tall order, I sure am happy that it was a weekday and it was in Metro Atlanta.
