Are you looking for a new access control card reader? Or, perhaps you have decided that it is time to install one in your building? Compared with other access control options, the access card reader is a simple solution to control the entrance.
If you do not have a basic understanding of what you are looking for, purchasing a perfect access control system may be daunting. You will find a thorough review of the best door card readers on the market in this guide.
1. What is the Access Control Card Reader?
The access card reader is an access control system that requires credentials (such as keys, keys, or cards) to enter the designated area. The door reader is a security measure and an indispensable part of maintaining the security boundary.
Reader locks are beneficial because they:
- Protect building entrances and entrances inside buildings
- Maintain order
- Make access easy
In short, if you have a continuous flow of people entering and leaving the building, one of the best access control options is the card reader. The cardholder only needs to show his/her certificate to the card reader and the door will be unlocked.
2. Different Types of Card Readers
When purchasing an access control card reader, you must know exactly what you are looking at. Once you start to see the jargon on the page, it is easy to wander and miss the details of the uniqueness of each device.
1) Inductive Card Reader
Inductive card readers are some of the most common readers you will see. Once the card is within the detection range of the card reader, they will read the credentials to allow entry.
2) Wireless
The wireless card reader is very useful when the building needs to be rewired to adapt to the new access control system. In addition, they use their own power supply – a special battery. Therefore, if there is a power failure, they will continue to work.
3) Keyboard
The keyboard door reader is a dual system that accepts PIN codes and key cards. These provide the ability to use the card without a key at all or without a PIN.
4) Wired
A wired card reader is only a card reader connected to the power supply. This is the kind with fewer power problems when there is power, but it may cause problems if there is a power failure.
3. Three Things to Know Before Purchasing A Door Card Reader
There are several things you need to know about the card reader that may affect your final decision. Before you purchase, please consider how you will use the card reader, how it works on your property, and how much the card reader may cost.
Before purchasing the system, ask yourself three questions:
1) What is the Purpose of Purchasing the Access Control Card Reader?
Ask yourself why you want to buy an access control card reader. For example, what prompted you to seek new access control solutions? If you are not sure, it may be helpful to know the most common reasons why people buy card readers.
The situations where people use card readers include:
- Protected access: Many industries deal with sensitive information or want to protect specific spaces (for example, data, packages, or server rooms). The card reader system is useful because it can prevent unauthorized persons from entering.
- Residential and hotel entrances: Hotels, nursing homes, student dormitories, apartments, and other buildings need door readers that allow only specific people to enter. These are very suitable for the lobby, living unit, and convention center.
- Office entrance.:Commercial and office buildings benefit from the access card by monitoring the access of people and providing limited access rights for employees.
2) What Specifications Do You Need to Consider?
There are different types of door card readers. This is why before you start shopping, you should know the specifications of the card reader you want.
Several things to consider before shopping:
- Do you want a door card reader that can use smartphones as entry credentials?
- Do you need a wired or wireless connection?
- Does the new card reader need a WiFi connection to work?
- Do you want a reader or keyboard reader combination?
3) How Much is the Door Card Reader?
The average cost of a door card reader is between $1200 and $3500, depending on several factors. For example, the installation cost may be $900 or more, depending on the reader, installer, and building. There is also the production cost of the door card reader, including materials, labor, and transportation. As we all know, China is a manufacturer, and the production cost will be cheaper than in the United States. If you are considering importing door card readers wholesale from China for your door lock business, this is also a good option.
In addition, the price of the equipment itself is between $100 and $1100 (plus annual or monthly fees). The price depends on the brand you buy and the features you want.
4. What is the Best Door Card Reader?
The best door card reader on the market brings you the greatest benefits at the most favorable cost.
- It is easy to install.
- Suitable for doors, gates, and elevators.
- Keychain, card, and mobile application input are supported.
- Protected by tamper detection technology.
- Can be managed remotely.
- Easily pair with other access control devices.
- Provide a 2-year warranty.
5. Conclusion
The access card reader is an access control system, which requires credentials in the form of a key card to enter. There are different types of door card readers: wired, wireless, keyboard, and inductive card readers. The three things you need to know before purchasing a card reader are your motivation, preferred specification, and installation cost. Following these rules, you can find a good one from the market.