Why use a biometric solution for access control?

Unlike cards or keys, an individual’s fingerprint cannot be lost or stolen.  The biometric access control system is much more secure than others because it works based upon your identity, rather than something that you have (such as keys) or something that you know (such as a PIN number).  Fingerprint-based access control solutions are also fast, convenient, and surprisingly affordable.   

How does the system work?

In a typical installation, an individual is enrolled on a PeopleKey fingerprint reader, and his / her access control privileges (where he / she can enter and when) are set up in the Fingerlan application by an administrator.  When the individual later returns to enter a door or pass through a turnstile, he / she places a finger on the PeopleKey reader and is subsequently granted or denied entry based upon his / her unique fingerprint.  PeopleKey access control systems can be combined with card solutions and our fingerprint readers are easily integrated with existing alarm systems and door strikes.   

Can the solution be combined with cards?

PeopleKey readers can perform verifications by fingerprint only, card + fingerprint, or PIN + fingerprint.  Our fingerprint readers are compatible with HID iCLASS and Mifare cards and we offer optional integrated card readers in our products. 

Do I need a server?

When the fingerprint readers are used in networked mode, the Fingerlan application is installed on a PC or server.  Fingerlan manages user profiles, access control settings and more.  The application can easily run on a standard Windows PC; many customers with large installations prefer to run the application on an existing server. 

What happens in case of a power outage?

Power is required in order for the V70i to operate a door strike for access control, so readers are sometimes installed with a power backup.  Safety is not compromised because fingerprint readers are typically used to control entry into a particular area, but not out of it.  In a power failure, users would be able to exit controlled areas but would not be able to enter them again until power was restored (or unless the readers and door strikes were operating with a power backup). In terms of auditing, each V70i fingerprint reader stores up to 32,000 user templates and 60,000 in / out transactions by default (the memory is expandable).  In case of a power outage, all transactions are automatically retrieved by the Fingerlan application when power is restored. 

How many doors can be operated by each fingerprint reader?

Each V70i fingerprint reader will control up to 4 doors with its optional integrated 24-way IO board.  Doors are typically controlled via Wiegand interface or relay; the V70i can also be connected directly to a door strike. 

Can the fingerprint readers be mounted outdoors?

The current V70i fingerprint reader is water resistant but should not be mounted anyplace where direct rain or other liquids can interfere with the operation of the unit.  Future readers will have full IP65 ratings that will allow for more flexibility in harsh outdoor environments.  

Can the fingerprint readers be integrated with my existing alarm system?

Certainly. The V70i and future fingerprint readers can easily be connected with existing alarm systems via Wiegand interfaces or relays.  PeopleKey is also working with prominent enterprise access control companies around the globe in order to offer plug and play biometric solutions for companies with existing card-based systems.  Please contact us for more details on how PeopleKey access control systems integrate with your existing building security systems.

I'm ready to order.  What's the next step?

Please contact PeopleKey (or your local distributor, if you are located outside of Australia) in order to discuss your company's specific access control needs.  Our sales team will discuss the appropriate biometric solution with you, offer a free quote, and help you schedule an installation.