by Shane Henson — December 3, 2012—CEM Systems, a division of Tyco Security Products that provides access control and integrated security management systems, recently announced the launch of “emerald,” an intelligent access terminal that features an Internet protocol (IP) reader and controller in one, a built-in voice over IP (VoIP) intercom, and a range of remote applications, all in one powerful, integrated device.
As part of its modern and sleek design, emerald features a large, bright 4.3″ graphical liquid crystal display (LCD) screen with hardened glass and anti-glare coating. This state-of-the-art touch screen utilizes capacitive technology and displays a range of predefined messages, such as wrong door, lost/stolen card, expiring card and access granted. It also displays icons to cardholders depending on their privileges and access levels, says CEM Systems. With a built-in mini passive infrared (PIR) sensor, emerald also provides energy-saving motion detection and features a unique scramble keypad option for personal identification number (PIN) verification, the company adds.
Utilizing a built-in microphone and speaker, emerald provides fully integrated audio intercom functionality at the door. As CEM Systems explains, this enables two-way communication between users and security personnel when assistance is required. Security can assist cardholders by executing a “oneshot” command to remotely open a secure door.
One of emerald’s unique features is the ability to run key applications at the door that are remotely hosted on the CEM AC2000 database server. CEM Systems says these remote applications act as a security intelligence point and are available to users with specific card holder status. They display real-time security information and statistics such as card status, scheduled visitors, top system alarms and most recent alarms on the terminal. Additional applications include “first and last swipes” that can be used for time and attendance purposes, “card details” for individuals to determine access levels and card expiry date, and “change PIN” that allows users to proactively change their own PIN without contacting the system operator.
A variety of maintenance applications are also available. These include “recent alarms,” “devices with most alarms,” and “device settings,” which allow engineers to locally diagnose devices and change network information remotely.
CEM Systems’ intelligent access terminal supports a range of smart card technologies and has offline reader capabilities for up to 250,000 cardholder records. This ensures zero system downtime and provides the highest level of security measures. It also has onboard power-over-ethernet technology, which allows the device to be powered using an Ethernet cable, the company says.