Key card access systems, also known as key fob entry systems, are great for securing and managing entrances in any commercial building or facility.

With a key card entry access system, you can make sure only the right individuals have access at the right times while prohibiting unauthorized entry and limiting access to restricted areas.

Aside from improving physical security, the Key card entry system for businesses can also be integrated with commercial CCTV systems or alarm systems for added security benefits. In other terms, these access card systems are highly versatile and easy to use, with various options depending on your requirements.

However, there are many questions people often have about key card access door locks, such as is installing a card access system is really worth it. What benefits do these systems offer? What type of card access door lock systems are available in the market? And most importantly, how much does installing a card access solution cost?

In this article, we’re going to answer all of these questions to help you make the best decision for your business.

What are Key Card Access Systems?

A key card access system is are type of access control solutions that help businesses, generally IT and security teams, secure their facilities.

These systems allow access to offices and buildings or restrict access by preventing security breaches and unauthorized access. Card access systems can be cloud-based or on-premises– the latter of which empowers teams to manage their security efficiently.

Key Components of a Card Access System

A key card door lock system includes several different components. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Door key cards: These are security cards for doors with attached chips that store information about the user’s identity.
  
  
• Key card scanner: A device installed on doors and gates that scans the information stored on electronic card keys.
  
  
• Controller: One of the main elements of card access systems, the controller sends commands to open or close doors by communicating with the user database.
  
  
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) devices: Some more advanced key card door lock systems require users to enter a PIN code in addition to swiping their electronic card for added security. 
  
  
• Electronic key card door lock:  Electronic key card door lock locks or unlocks the door when a valid key card is swiped. A card key door lock can be done manually or automatically, depending on the type of access card system for doors businesses use.
  
  
• Access card systems software: As the name suggests, this component of a car access system stores user data, manages access rights, and monitors the overall system activity.

Trendy Read: The Latest Smart Lock Trends in 2024

How do Key Card Access Systems Work?

Understanding how these Key card access door lock systems work will help you understand if this is the right solution for your business.

The latest key card entry security systems generally work on RFID access or magnetic stripe technology, allowing users to tap, swipe, or use proximity to a key card machine to access a secured area. An access system stores staff information so the key card readers can identify them.

When someone swipes or brings their card close enough to the scanner, it captures the details and sends it to the controller for verification.

Then the controller verifies the individual’s identity against the database and gives access if they are allowed in that facility. If an unauthorized person tries to access it, the system also triggers additional security measures, such as automatic alarms or text alerts to the security team.

If businesses need additional security with these card access systems, they can also set up keypads. These devices allow the cardholder to enter a personal code in addition to presenting their card. Combining these two techniques helps ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive areas.

The commercial key card door locks software ties everything together and allows businesses to track who has accessed which areas and at what time.

Benefits of Card Access Control Systems

In comparison with a traditional lock system, key card systems provide several advantages to users. The following are some of the key benefits of installing a key card door lock access control system:

• Flexibility: You can use one key card system for multiple buildings and entrances, as they use a unique credential that’s stored on each key card.
  
  
• Convenient: Employees no longer need to worry about losing keys or carrying around bulky keychains.  They can simply swipe their card or use a mobile credential to gain access.  This saves them time and frustration, especially for businesses with flexible hours or multiple entry points.
  
  
• Enhanced security: With unique restrictions for each card––such as specific hours, doors, or areas, card access systems allow you to have granular control over who has access to certain areas and bolster your physical security.
  
  
• Integration with other systems: The door access card systems can be integrated with other software such as time and attendance software, HR systems, or building automation systems.  This can streamline operations and provide a more comprehensive view of your security and employee activity.

Also Read: Smart Lock Installation Guide: 7 Simple Steps to Secure Your Door

Types of Key Cards

Although there are several types of card access systems, the two most popular include RFID proximity and swipe systems.

RFID Proximity Cards

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) cards pass credentials to electronic door locks by way of radio waves. As RFID cards use radio waves as a medium, there’s no need for physical contact between the card and the reader. This makes RFID cards more easy to use than other key cards.

There are two main RFID wavelengths: 125 kHz and 13.5 MHz. The wavelength determines the path via which your electronic device, such as a key card or smartphone, communicates with the door scanner.

Note: RFID is commonly mistaken for NFC technology, which uses electromagnetic fields to send data between two devices.

To work, both devices must have NFC chips and be near each other. NFC is most frequently seen in credit cards, where an end-user must physically place their card directly on top of the receiving device.

Swipe Cards

Swipe cards, as the name implies, work by being swiped through a magnetic scanner. Installing a swipe card access control system is often less expensive than RFID proximity cards, making it a feasible solution for businesses with a limited budget.

While swipe cards are a less expensive option, they can be more difficult to use than proximity key cards. An end user must remove their swipe card and place it into the scanner, which will most likely take longer and require more effort than a proximity card.

Using a swipe card in extremely crowded areas where many people need access (such as an office entry) may result in a queue that takes longer for tenants or visitors to pass through.

Moreover, swipe cards are also vulnerable to physical wear and tear, as users must physically swipe the card through the reader multiple times a day.

Must Read: How Locksmith Business is One of The Best Small Business Ideas From Home

Alternatives to Card Access Systems for Buildings and Offices

Key cards and key fobs are not the only credential options available. As a business owner, if you want to go keyless, alternatives like mobile access control might help. Let’s take a look at house common keyless entry systems to decide if they meet your business needs better than key cards:

Biometrics

Biometric access control is a type of access control solution that uses someone’s physical characteristics to verify identity. These characteristics can include fingerprints, iris patterns, or other facial features, which act as credentials. Today, many commercial buildings use biometric identification to ensure the high security of their business. However, these solutions are ideal if your enterprise aims to go touchless.

Mobile Credentials

Rather than using key card access systems, staff can use their smartphone, or smartwatch to hold a digital credential. When entering an office, the employee simply shows their smart device to a proximity reader. Smartphones often use Bluetooth or NFC technology to transfer unique credentials to the reader and then allow access based on whether the individual is authorized or not. Mobile credentials offer more convenience as they can be stored directly on one’s phone.

QR Codes

This system stores credentials in the form of a unique QR code. Once scanned, the reader initiates the authentication procedure, and the user has access after confirmation. QR codes are especially useful for effective visitor management. Visitors to your building can obtain a unique QR code to acquire access or admission. The credential can be set to activate and expire at specified times.

Keypads

Similar to biometrics, keypads may not be the best access control systems for businesses wanting touchless solutions. Keypads are a small grid often attached to the door handle and users must input a unique pin code to gain entry. While keypads negate the need for any physical device, PINs can be shared.

Recommended Read: 5 Best Smart Door Locks for Commercial and Residential Use in 2024

How Much Does a Card Access System Cost in India

The cost of a card access system in India can vary widely depending on several factors, including:

• Features: A basic system with just a card reader and a magnetic lock will be much cheaper than a system with advanced features like facial recognition, fingerprint readers, or integration with time and attendance software.
  
  
• Number of doors: The cost will increase as the number of doors you need to secure increases.
  
  
• Brand and quality: Well-known brands and higher-quality systems will typically cost more than lesser-known brands or lower-quality systems.
  

However, generally, the cost of key card access systems in India ranges:

• The cost of a basic card access system with a single door, magnetic lock, and card reader ranges from ₹3,000 - ₹10,000 (US$40 - $130)
  
  
• The cost of a mid-range key card entry system with multiple doors, fingerprint reader, and access control panel ranges from ₹10,000 - ₹50,000 (US$130 - $650)
  
  
• The cost of an advanced system with facial recognition, and integration with other systems ranges from ₹50,000+ (US$650+)

It’s worth mentioning that aside from these above-given costs, there are some additional costs  you may need to consider which include:

Installation: Expect to pay an additional ₹1,000 - ₹5,000 (US$13 - $65) for professional access control system installation.

Cards: Cards typically cost ₹10 - ₹100 (US$0.13 - $1.30) each.

You Might Also Like Reading: What is the Car Starter Price in India?

How Keyenzy Can Help You Install a Card Access System

Key card access systems provide enterprises with a practical, versatile, and flexible way to monitor and control access to a building or area. With the right choice of access system and proper lock installation, businesses can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their premises are safe and secure.

But, now you might be wondering who will install the lock. Where will you find a professional to help you with your card entry system installation in your office? Worry not!

Keyenzy is one of the largest networks of professional locksmiths, offering all types of lock and key-related services nationwide. We can help you find a local and reliable technician near your location within a few minutes.

So, fill out our quick form now and get the help you need to install an access control system!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is a card access system?

Ans. A card access system is an electronic security system that uses cards or key fobs to grant access to buildings or specific areas.

Q. How much does a key card access system cost?

Ans.The cost of a key card access system varies depending on features and number of doors. Basic systems start around ₹3,000 while advanced systems with features like facial recognition can cost ₹50,000+ in India.

Q. What is RFID card access?

Ans.RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a type of card access that uses radio waves to identify cards. It's contactless, so you just wave your card near the reader for access.

Q. What are the benefits of a card access system?

Ans.Card access systems offer benefits like increased security, convenience for employees, improved access management, tracking and reporting, and scalability for growing businesses. They're a secure and user-friendly way to control access to your property.