As providers of access control, ProdataKey is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety and security possible for our users. Managing access permissions and door locking capabilities is a key aspect of physical security, but we also want to make sure that our end-users are protected from other types of threats, like fires, break-ins, or violent attacks. In order to ensure that our users can find comfort in the highest levels of safety possible, we’ve made it easier than ever for a variety of alarm sensors to be integrated into PDK systems.
1. Door Position Sensors
A door position sensor (DPS) is a small, inexpensive device that records the position of a door at all times, allowing you to see if a door is open or closed at any given moment. Speaking about the importance of DPS’s, Jeromy Stokes, the Technical Support Manager at ProdataKey, says “a door position sensor is the most important part of an access control system, in my opinion. If you’re trying to control doors and make sure your system is secure, if you don’t know if the physical door is closed, what’s the point?”
When it comes to deciding which doors should have a DPS, Jeromy clarifies the value of installing DPS even on entry points that don’t have access control capabilities: “I installed at a lot of warehouses where they’d only want card access at the front, but there were perimeter doors all around the warehouse for fire exits. We would put DPS’s on each of those perimeter doors so if one of the guys goes out and puts a rock in the door so he can come back in, but then forgets to remove it, we can know that the door was left open.” In this scenario, the DPS would be able to trigger a prop alarm – this alarm could take the form of an email or push notification, a sound or light going off, or another type of alert as selected by the user.
2. Smoke Alarm Sensors
Smoke sensors are useful devices to install in any type of location, as explained by Jeromy: “Smoke detectors go everywhere – you can use them in any application.” These devices detect traces of smoke and vapors, notifying users of any input instantaneously. This ensures that if a fire breaks out in a building, people inside will be made aware of the threat quickly and can act accordingly. Smoke alarm sensors can also be utilized in dedicated smoking- and vape-free areas, in order to monitor activity and ensure that individuals are following the established rules and regulations of the space.
3. Glass Break Window Alarm Sensors
This type of device is an effective defense mechanism that will alert you if it detects the sound of glass being broken. This sensor is useful to install near windows and glass doors, as both of these surfaces are susceptible to breaks, whether they be accidental breaks or an intentional act of vandalism or breaking-and-entering. When a glass break door or window alarm sensor detects an issue, it will not only send you a notification, but it can also trigger an audible or visual alarm to potentially deter any possible intruders. With a quick alert from a glass break sensor on a window or glass door, you will be able to swiftly jump into action to secure your space and get the glass repaired.
4. Gunshot Alarm Sensors
As an acoustic sensor, a gunshot alarm sensor will be triggered by the sound of a gun being fired. When triggered, the gunshot sensor will quickly inform specified users of the potential threat, allowing any consecutive safety and lockdown procedures to unfold. While gunshot sensors are important devices to have in any public space, Jeromy Stokes points specifically towards educational spaces and places of worship as types of verticals standing to benefit significantly from this technology.
5. Motion Sensors
Motion sensors pick up on any type of movement occurring in a specified field of vision. This form of sensor has various uses, such as restricting trespassing, keeping stray animals out of outdoor or indoor areas, and staying generally informed on movements in your space. On top of these uses, motion sensors also have a direct application when it comes to improving access control, through a device such as ProdataKey’s brand-new High Performance Request-To-Exit (REXHP). The installation of a REX device also allows users to set up a forced door alarm, which will be triggered anytime a door is forced open without a badge scan or a REX input from the other side.
Push Notifications: Never Miss a Sensor Alert!
ProdataKey has recently introduced a brand new push notification feature into the app, adding yet another way for users to be notified of any type of alarm or activity picked up by sensors. By enabling push notifications, you will receive alerts directly on your mobile device, and in the app you can completely customize what type of notifications you want to receive. Never miss an opened door, intruder threat, smoke hazard, or any other type of crisis again.
If you want to expand your access control system and guarantee the highest levels of security possible, installing alarm sensors is a must. By integrating devices such as door position, motion, smoke, gunshot, or glass break sensors into your existing ProdataKey access control system, you can stay up-to-date with everything that is happening in your space.
Schedule a demo today to learn more about ProdataKey’s access control systems and sensor integrations.
