Badge readers are a popular access control component because they manage to address both security and ease of use. This guide will explain how badge readers work, why many businesses use them, and what you should look for when purchasing them.
What are badge readers? #
Badge readers—like the Kisi Reader Pro—are devices that can scan a person’s credentials, communicate with the access controller to grant or deny access, and record data. Many companies use them for fast and easy access control. In addition, some companies use modern badge readers for employee clock-ins, emergency roll calls, and mobile device management.
How badge readers work #
To use a badge reader, an employee presents their badge by holding it in front of or near the device. The reader scans the data on the badge, communicates it to the control panel (also known as the access controller), and compares it to information in a database. If the employee has access authorization, the panel triggers the door to unlock so the employee can enter the space. When the system detects that an employee is not listed as authorized in the database, the door remains locked.
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