Feb 5 2013
Cascade Metrology knows a thing or two about quality instrumentation. The company is responsible for testing and calibrating Speed Measuring Devices (Doppler radars and lidars) used by law enforcement agencies and other sensitive instruments used in laboratory settings by fortune 500 companies. When Cascade moved its metrology labs to a new space, engineers took the opportunity to vet a selection of wireless access control systems. After careful testing, the clear winner was SciTech Wireless. SciTech's WILDR (Wireless Interface Low Power Digital Radio) solution represents the gold standard in secure, wireless access control.
Access control systems (ACS) are essential for any security-conscious locale, such as a corporate office, warehouse, airport, industrial facility or gated community. At entry points, users gain access via badge swipe. In traditional access control infrastructures, Access Control Panels are hard-wired (as a minimum) to card readers, door locking mechanisms, position sensors, and request-to-exit switches. Control Panels are wired to a centralized server computer running the system management and monitoring software. SciTech Wireless developed a wireless solution called WILDR that eliminates the need for most, if not all, of these wires. Instead, information travels over secure radio frequencies. In the event of power failure, the devices have battery back-up capability.
"Three years after initial deployment, SciTech continues to provide superior service and technology to Cascade Metrology Labs," said Cascade General Manager, Seyed Javad . "The metrology labs frequently modify their floor plans to accommodate different testing environments. WILDR allows this without the heavy construction of moving conduits and rewiring control panels. The company sees a significant return on investment every time a wall or door must be relocated."
Additional benefits of wireless deployment are evident through the entire lifecycle of the system. Installation of a wireless system takes a fraction of the time required for hard wiring. It's also less expensive and less arduous, both initially and in the long term. With multiple data ports (RS-232, RS485, RS422, Wiegand, Clock & data), the WILDR unit can interface seamlessly with any existing access control system. The badge reader interface has a data buffer capacity of 8184 bits, allowing for custom, organization-specific data lengths, including FIPS- 201, HSPD-12, and PIV.
The only potential drawback to a wireless system is vulnerability to hacking and exploitation, but SciTech Wireless addresses this concern with site-specific proprietary dual encryption. The company has earned the business of government, military and security clients through its dedication to foolproof data security.
"SciTech Wireless has developed a great value-added product for the access control market," said Certified Protection Professional Fred Zagurski. "I have found myself in need of a wireless wedge to solve issues that come up regularly. In security, customers frequently need something done 'right now,' not tomorrow or next week. The WILDR solution installs in minutes, making SciTech Wireless an indispensable option in my security tool chest."
WILDR's versatility means that it has a myriad of applications, many as yet unrealized. The technology can be deployed in place of elevator traveling cables, office and manufacturing environments, in gated environments, private marinas, or any place where access needs to be monitored or restricted.
SciTech Wireless anticipates a year of exciting new developments and innovations in the field of access control systems. The company hopes to cement its position as the frontrunner in wireless access control.