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SPT - Access Controls Technology Handbook - 2026

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TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

Elevate your resident's access experience with resident key.

Access Control A look into the products, technologies and solutions shaping the market

Wallet credential can be used in conjunction, or as a full replacement, for existing physical fobs in your community.

Resident key is an additional feature with Zentra that gives your resident's the unparalleled experience of tap and go access.

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Access your community with your key in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet —from your apartment to elevators and common areas. Just hold your smart device near the reader to unlock. It’s easy, convenient, and secure.

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

HOW OFTEN DO END USERS REPLACE THEIR SECURITY SYSTEMS? Replacement cycles hinge on a number of factors, including compliance, budget and appetite for new features

W

hile some users will keep security equipment like cameras and access control systems in service almost indefinitely, others are more attentive to replacement cycles. For a company like ADSS, a national systems integrator whose clients primarily operate in the public sector, adoption of new technologies is sometimes slow-going. “The end user does not want to get rid of their equipment for a fancy feature set if it’s working,” explains Andrew Lauzon, president of ADSS, which operates offices in Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa and Atlantic Canada. Meeting compliance requirements will generate some equipment cycling in government buildings, however, most of the investments in the latest security features will take place when full replacements of systems are needed. Getting budget approval to replace 2

Whether on-prem, cloud or hybrid, adoption of new systems varies according to the user’s needs and budget

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

working equipment can be difficult for security departments in any sector due to spiking costs in equipment since the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s hard for them to justify it unless it doesn’t meet compliance,” says Lauzon. While government facilities may be less likely to invest in the latest features, retail companies have been showing increased interest in newer security applications. “A lot of that is the business experience of security practitioners being able to communicate with leadership that there is a return on investment, that there is help on the risk management side of things. Rather than just being a cost centre, there are additional tasks that can be leveraged using security infrastructure,” explains Gio Santoro, professional services

specialist at SoloSquid, a professional services and custom development agency based in Paris, Ont. One of the keys to getting more companies to buy into the ROI of installing new security technologies is by adding different stakeholders to the conversation. “I think if you can start to bring in some of those other stakeholders, whether it’s marketing, operations, or other people within that organization, you can kind of shift the conversation, and then you start opening up budgets in other departments where it’s now not seen as a cost centre, but something that adds value to the business,” says Jason Kloss, president of SoloSquid.

Cloud considerations One trend that has been taking place

PHOTO: bymuratdeniz / istock / Getty images

BY ANDREW SNOOK


MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY for several years across many security departments is the move to cloud-based systems or a hybrid combination of on-premises and cloud-based systems. ADSS has been selling cloud access control for over a decade. Lauzon says these systems are a win-win for the company and their clients. “Too many times with the on-premises systems, the servers aren’t being patched, or you have a smaller system, where you have a compact computer in the closet that’s never been backed up,” he says. “I’m a really big fan of the cloud systems.” Costs for on-prem servers are also pushing companies towards using more cloud-based solutions. “We’ve seen a huge increase in server costs just because of some of the RAM shortages and things like that happening in the industry. And then also, now you’re seeing servers that need to have these beefy GPUs built in them to run some of these AI applications and video analytics applications. So, those costs are going up,” Kloss says. “I think that’s helping to shift that conversation from everything needs to be on-prem to some of that being shifted and allocated into the cloud, and doing some of that process in the cloud, or doing some of that processing on what I’ll call ‘the true edge,’ which is inside of the camera itself, or inside of the door controller — taking that horsepower out of that beefy server.”

Software upgrades When new software upgrades are added, it can sometimes lead to companies cycling out older equipment. “When you have a small system, say five doors, eight doors, that makes sense. You have to cycle out all the hardware, but you’re giving them a new type of system that is going to fix their needs, whether it’s mobile passes, a new feature set, or maybe their server needs to be replaced,” Lauzon says. “I find for the smaller sites, it’s definitely a lot easier to replace that hardware. It’s more when you’re getting into those enterprise level systems where that’s a bit of a tough sell, when you’re affecting hundreds of doors.” While some new software solutions can spark the need to replace aging equipment, other solutions being brought forth complement existing systems. For the video side of their business, Toronto-based integrator A.C. Technical Systems installs a health monitoring system in addition to what’s provided by the equipment

ACCESS CONTROL

“Often, we talk about AI and data, but I think a lot of the time the challenge is, what do we actually want to do with that data?”

— Jason Kloss, SoloSquid

manufacturer. The health monitoring system generates proactive alerts for potential equipment issues that A.C. Technical Systems staff will then call their clients to schedule a remote or on-site diagnostic review. “Let’s say a hard drive went outside of its bandwidth parameters. We immediately contact the customer to schedule a service call,” explains Dominic Burns, president and CEO of A.C. Technical Systems. “We’ll have a technician remote into the site to verify the issue, then schedule a site visit with a new hard drive.” Santoro says a lot of customers have come to realize that investments in security hardware are not a “one and done” anymore. As these technologies become more heavily entrenched in the operational technology (OT) umbrella, companies have become more aware of the need to properly maintain their systems. “I think that customers are more cognizant and more willing for even simple things like firmware updates or software updates. That’s a lot of what we do on the systems maintenance side, and end users are much more receptive to that, rather than just letting sleeping dogs lie,” Santoro says.

Hardware expectations While the decision to keep technologies until they finally break down may be good for the budget, those technologies aren’t necessarily doing an adequate job addressing security needs. Some security departments will use the same access control and cameras for over 15 years. “I think in some ways it would be easier to force the end user to adopt the current technology for their own security,” Lauzon says. “There’s still a lot of clients using prox cards in Canada. Unless you force them to switch by not meeting compliance or obsolete hardware, the classic ‘if it works, don’t touch it’ is still strong in our industry.” Preventative maintenance programs may be part of the reason that some equipment continues to operate well, although the majority of companies do not perform preventative maintenance on their security equipment, notes Burns. “I continue to be surprised on a regular

basis at how large enterprise accounts do not see the value of preventative maintenance until there is a major issue,” he says. “When there is an issue this usually leads to crisis management and finger pointing. Many ACTS clients require a comprehensive PM agreement to ensure their security equipment will always be in working order. A preventative maintenance agreement with clearly defined expectations guarantees peace of mind.”

Upgrades coming When it comes to new technologies and systems coming into health-care facilities, weapons detection systems are currently being evaluated by some sites as potential security enhancements. “There is an interest within the healthcare vertical to evaluate weapons detection systems at the entrance of emergency departments,” Burns says. “We have a few test sites deployed we’re evaluating.” One of the areas where security replacements are trending is in the adoption of mobile access control. “Whether it be for visitor management or just to manage their team in general, the mobile passes are definitely a sell point that makes sense for them to change their hardware to be able to use this,” Lauzon says. Other technology adoptions he expects will garner increasing interest from clients are direct-to-cloud intercoms — which will force some companies to switch out old phone systems — and direct-to-cloud access cameras. “I think that’s going to be the next big push in the industry,” Lauzon says. In the end, companies will need to focus on what the customer wants to gain from their security solutions as they continue to make new investments. “Often, we talk about AI and data, but I think a lot of the time the challenge is, what do we actually want to do with that data? What do we want to do with that application to get the desired outcome? Why are we counting people? I think sometimes getting beyond just the feature on a spec sheet and going into the outcomes of what’s actually being delivered is a tough thing to get to,” Kloss says.

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

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product PREVIEWS Access Control

Soft-close hinge

Southco has launched the EC damping soft-close hinge. The EC Damping Hinge brings the same features found in high-end kitchen cabinet hinges to environments where the stakes are much higher than a slamming door making a loud noise. The EC Damping Hinge can removing the risk of personal injury or equipment damage from a slamming door or lid, according to the company. Southco’s soft-close EC Damping Hinge uses an embedded torque engine to generate resistance only when it’s needed the most. The embedded torque engine also makes the EC Damping Hinge’s profile nearly identical to some free-swinging surfacemount hinges. www.southco.com

Automatic door operator

Allegion announced the release of a series of enhancements to their LCN 2800IQ and 9500IQ Senior 4

Swing series operators, including the patentpending, self-adjusting technology, AdaptivIQ. Built for durability and efficiency, the LCN Senior Swing offers performance in heavy-use applications including health care, offices and other high-traffic areas. From the fully loaded controller to AdaptivIQ and Smart Power Boost technology, this self-adjusting, selfcalibrating automatic door operator reacts to seasonal and daily variations and external pressures like wind, carpet drag and HVAC stack pressure, allowing consistent operation and less ongoing maintenance. Installation is simplified with new hook-and-cleat hardware, allowing easier and safer hands-free holding of both the motor gearbox and control box during setup. The new control box offers 23 customizable user settings, an intuitive LCD screen, a self-calibration cycle and real-time diagnostics. www.allegion.com

Face recognition access control

Salto has launched XS4 Face, a face recognition access control solution which requires only a face as a credential and grants access in under a second, according to the company. XS4 Face features simplified hardware installation and automated software configuration and commissioning, with no third-party software or

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

additional integration required. XS4 Face enrollment and onboarding can be done on any device. Salto says XS4 Face is designed “with privacy at its core” — the local, on-premise system does not store any images. When a user approaches the XS4 Face camera, their image is captured and converted into a biometric template for comparison with the gallery of enrolled users. www.saltosystems.com

Electric strikes

this compact, scalable device supports single-door and multi-site IP-based access control systems and manages thousands of credentials. With INFINIAS offering both cloud-based and on-premises options, organizations can tailor access control to meet their evolving security needs. The unit offers upgraded memory, NIC and processing power and support for both OSDP and Wiegand readers. www.3xlogic.com

Access control platform HES, an ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions brand, announces a new windstorm certification for the 5000, 5300, 8000, and 8300 Series electric strikes. The electric strikes now carry an ANSI/ SDI 250.13 certified rating to meet an extended range of door security applications. The electric strikes have been enhanced through an engineering redesign, enabling them to meet windstorm and impact requirements without modifications to the installation process. With the new windstorm certification, the 5000, 5300, 8000, and 8300 Series can be used in more environments. www.hesinnovations.com

Single door controller

The INFINIAS EIDC+ from 3xLogic is a next-generation access control single door controller. From a single door at a small business, to large-scale deployments,

GARDiS Pro Version 3.1 is the latest iteration of GARDiS Access Control Management Software. GARDiS 3.1 introduces expanded biometric support and intelligent credential management, delivering improved hardware reporting capabilities and new thirdparty integration options, says the company. Version 3.1 adds support for the Digitouch Biometric Reader, enabling fingerprint authentication, and introduces automatic credential status updates to strengthen access control management. Administrators also benefit from customisable event log retention. Additional refinements include a new Duress PIN alert function for discreet security responses and multiple backend performance enhancements. www.tdsi.co.uk


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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Remote Gate Management: How Intelligent Access Control Accelerates Operations While Strengthening Security By ECAM

A truck idles at the gate, waiting for a guard to verify credentials and manually trigger the barrier. This scene plays out hundreds of times daily at distribution facilities, construction sites, and logistics yards across North America. It’s a necessary security checkpoint, but also an operational bottleneck that slows throughput and increases costs.

and video records. Exception handling routes non-standard situations to trained command center operators who investigate, verify documentation, and make access decisions while maintaining security consistency across multiple sites.

Reliability and Risk Management

Most organizations rely on on-site personnel to control gate access. It’s effective but slow and labor-intensive. The alternative gaining traction combines automated verification workflows with remote human oversight. These intelligent gate management systems integrate directly with yard management platforms, streamlining routine access decisions while keeping trained operators in the loop for exceptions and situations requiring judgment.

Smart gate management solutions require redundancy for power loss, backup procedures for internet outages, and offline access capabilities for approved vehicles. Cybersecurity is critical: API integration must include encryption, authentication protocols, and regular security updates to prevent unauthorized access. Data privacy protections and audit logs ensure regulatory compliance. Well-designed systems maintain security protocols even during partial failures, with manual override procedures available if remote systems experience disruption.

The Operational Challenge

Measurable Business Impact

Beyond cost, there’s the critical security audit trail question. Manual operations often lack documented verification. Who approved entry? When exactly did the vehicle arrive? What credentials were checked? These details matter during investigations and compliance audits, but they’re rarely captured with traditional manual gates.

Increased Throughput: Automated workflows eliminate processing delays at peak hours, enabling faster vehicle entry and exit cycles that directly improve site productivity. Lower Operating Costs: Reduced dependency on full-time gate personnel translates to significant operational savings based on site staffing levels and operating hours. Enhanced Security: Digital verification creates multiple protection layers. Video records document transactions, providing evidence for investigations and liability protection. Reduced Errors & Liability: Consistent application of access rules minimizes missed verification steps. Audit trails provide documentation for regulatory compliance and security investigations.

Intelligent Integration

The Strategic Advantage

Full-time gate personnel create fixed costs with limited scalability. During peak hours, single operators become bottlenecks that delay vehicle processing and disrupt schedules. Multiple-site operations compound the challenge with inconsistent security protocols, varying response times, and high labor turnover costs.

Modern solutions leverage API integration with Yard Management Systems (YMS) and Transportation Management System (TMS) platforms, creating seamless workflows. Automated entry and exit workflows trigger from cameras and sensors for approved vehicles. License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology validates vehicles against approved schedules or restricted lists. For routine approved movements, barrier arms open automatically, ensuring consistent verification every time rather than relying on operator attention during busy periods. For visitor and carrier access, remote operators conduct visual and audio verification through integrated face cameras and intercom systems. Every interaction is documented with timestamps 6

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

In competitive industries where downtime impacts profitability, intelligent gate management represents a strategic advantage. Organizations gain operational agility, enhanced security visibility, and improved financial performance through a single integrated platform. For operations managers evaluating their perimeter security strategy, the transition from manual to intelligent gate management offers a compelling business case combining faster throughput, lower costs, stronger security, and documented accountability.

Learn more at ecam.com/solutions/gate-security-access-control-and-entry-management


ACCESS CONTROL That Protects Your Perimeter

KEY BENEFITS

Real-time monitoring and control for maximum protection.

Real-time driver verification and gate control Time-stamped footage for investigations and reports Live video monitoring with trained security operators Cost-effective alternative to on-site guards Seamless integration with existing security systems

Ready to secure your property with intelligent access control? Contact us for a comprehensive security assessment : 1-855-755-7233 SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Beyond the Badge: Face as a Credential

Why identity-first access control is the next upgrade conversation for integrators and dealers is designed in from the start, the sales conversation changes from managing risk to solving a problem. Biometrics at the Door Face recognition has emerged as the most practical bridge between credential-based access and true identity verification. Unlike a card or smartphone, a face cannot be lost, forgotten, shared, or cloned. Salto’s XS4 Face uses dual HD cameras and AI-powered liveness detection to verify the actual person at the door—not a photograph, not a mask, not a proxy. Verification happens in a split-second, biometric data is converted to encrypted code rather than stored as images, and enrollment is built around explicit consent management and GDPR compliance.

For most of our industry’s history, access control has been built around the same premise: issue a credential, control the door. Mechanical keys gave way to prox cards, prox to smart cards, smart cards to mobile credentials. Each generation improved convenience and encryption, but the underlying model never changed—the system trusts the token. If you have the right card, you get in. Today, that model is under pressure. Hybrid schedules, contractor rotations, coworking arrangements, and return-tooffice mandates have made building populations far more fluid than they were even five years ago. Badge sharing, credential cloning, and tailgating all exploit the same weakness: a card can’t confirm who’s presenting it. The IT security world solved the equivalent problem years ago with multifactor authentication. Physical security is now at the same inflection point, and the technology has matured to where integrators and dealers can deliver real solutions today. From Token to Person Face recognition bridges that gap. Unlike a card or phone, a face cannot be lost, forgotten, shared, or cloned. Salto’s XS4 Face uses dual HD cameras and liveness detection to verify the actual person at the door—not a photo, not a mask, not a proxy—in a split-second. Biometric data is converted to encrypted code rather than stored as images, and enrollment is built around explicit consent and GDPR compliance. For integrators, that last point matters: privacy has been the biggest barrier to enterprise biometric adoption. When data protection 8

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

Managing Access as a Lifecycle Even the best biometric reader is only as effective as the system behind it. Traditional access control treats provisioning as a one-time event: someone gets a badge, permissions are assigned, and if they eventually leave, someone deactivates the credential. Role changes, project completions, and compliance lapses fall through the cracks because legacy systems were never designed to manage identity as an ongoing lifecycle. Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) changes this. Salto IDM centralizes identity governance, automating what legacy systems leave to manual administration. Employees are provisioned the moment HR completes onboarding; contractor access revokes automatically when projects end; visitors receive temporary credentials that expire by policy. Zero Trust at the Door When XS4 Face and Salto IDM operate together, the result is a physical zero-trust architecture: biometric verification at the edge, policy-based decisions at the platform layer, and real-time identity governance across the full lifecycle. The door verifies the person, checks authorization, confirms scheduling, and validates compliance—all before the lock engages. That same verified-identity data also becomes an operational asset: real-time occupancy, space utilization, contractor compliance, and emergency mustering—outcomes that turn a security upgrade into a broader business case. Every generation of access control has removed a layer between the system and the user. We’ve now reached the point where the credential is the person.


Face as a Credential Salto XS4 Face allows users to gain entry using only their face as a unique credential, eliminating the need for mechanical keys, badges, keycards, or other physical tokens. saltosystems.ca

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Network intercoms: a cornerstone of public safety and secure buildings We’re all familiar with intercoms and use them regularly. At the entry to commercial and residential buildings – maybe even our own homes and workplaces – intercoms play an important role in verifying the identity of those wishing to enter. What is perhaps less well know is how advances in IPconnected network intercoms – along with improved quality and more robust design – are allowing new use cases to emerge, enhancing safety and security in numerous environments, inside and outside.

Intercoms as part of an integrated security solution

Traditionally intercoms have been analogue single purpose devices, simply linking the intercoms device on a door to a building reception or resident’s apartment. By contrast, open standards-based network intercom devices can be integrated with other network security and surveillance technologies, from video cameras to audio devices to additional access control technologies. This opens a new world of potential applications. Even in the ‘traditional’ use case of a building’s entry, this connectivity brings benefits. A visitor to a building can use the intercom to alert reception to their arrival, and while their identity can be verified visually through the intercom’s embedded video camera, additional credentials can be integrated as a further level of security. For instance, this might be card readers for employees, or QR code readers for use with temporary visitor credentials. This can be particularly valuable in environments such as school and college campuses, where ensuring that only those authorized can gain access is essential. In addition, access can be granted from a mobile phone, IP phone, or video management system (VMS), further enhancing flexibility. The cameras within network intercoms devices have also improved immeasurably in quality and field of view. Fisheye lenses now allow for not only the visitor to be seen, but for more of the surrounding area to also be in view, which guards against unauthorized individuals sneaking into a building alongside a verified visitor (whether the visitor is a willing accomplice or under duress). In certain environments, operators can use nearby video surveillance cameras to complement intercoms and give a broader view of the building entry.

Network intercoms in public spaces

A further advancement in network intercoms has been in 10

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

robustness. Now designed to handle anything that people or nature throw at them, network intercoms devices can be built into a wide range of urban infrastructure, serving public safety goals in any environment. From being built into bus stops to standalone emergency stations and help points, network intercoms allow people to call for help and assistance in the quickest, most direct way possible, whether concerned for their own safety, or reporting incidents and accidents. Again, the integration of network technologies assists operators in providing the best and most timely assistance. Accessing nearby surveillance cameras can give a broader view of the scene and incident, essential in assessing its seriousness (or identifying a false alarm) and alerting the most appropriate first responders. Network audio devices can then enable broader communications to people in the area, notifying them of the situation, passing on instructions, and ensuring that access is clear for first responders.

Clear communications and a complete view

In essence, network intercoms enable quick, efficient, and clear communication between parties, with the integrated video capabilities and connection to broader surveillance and security technologies supporting the most appropriate response. Whether that’s as simple as allowing a visitor into a building or responding to a large-scale incident in a city street, network intercoms play a key role in public safety.


SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Industry Leading Locking & Door Control Hardware - Built to Perform

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or more than 38 years, Camden Door Controls has been an innovative provider of high-quality and competitively priced door activation, control, and locking products. Impressive growth and ever-increasing demand for our offerings led to our expansion into a 40,000-square-foot production facility. We’re proud to rank as an ISO-9001-2015 certified manufacturer that employs internationally recognized quality management processes, assuring customers that every product that carries the Camden name surpasses our customer’s expectations for performance and reliability. Camden products are robust, versatile, and designed to provide years of optimum performance in almost any commercial, institutional, or industrial application.

Industry Leading Quality and Innovation

Camden supplies the very best selection of push/exit buttons, key switches, keypads, strikes, and maglocks. From ‘Kinetic™’ no battery wireless products, to the first surface mount RIM strike with up to 15 lbs. of preload – Camden leads with cutting edge solutions. 12

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

Unsurpassed Customer Support

Not only committed to continued Research & Development, we also support our full line of products with the highest level of customer and technical support. Our technical support team is available to guide you through installations or troubleshooting, and we also support our customers with a network of over 75 sales representatives across the U.S. and Canada.We’re proud to offer a wide selection of resources in multiple languages, including manuals, application guides, specification sheets, and videos.

Fast & Reliable Product Delivery

Camden offers shipping speeds as fast as next day in some areas, and 2-day service to most cities in the continental U.S and Canada. Products are available at 300+ distributor locations across North America. Call Camden for all your door activation, control, and locking product solutions. We look forward to serving you and helping you Open New Doors to Innovation, Quality, and Support!


CAMDEN IS TOUCHLESS SWITCHES

THE NEWEST ADDITION TO CAMDEN'S FAMILY OF TOUCHLESS SWITCHES Camden’s CM-241 & CM-242 ValueWave+™ Microwave Touchless Switches are designed for indoor or outdoor use - providing ′no-touch′ request to exit functionality for access control and ADA compliant automatic door applications. Microwave sensing technology operates by emitting low-power microwaves that respond to motion quickly, maintaining high-precision activation even in harsh environments and high-traffic conditions. They come with an 18-gauge stainless steel faceplate and a variety of graphic options. Also available with manual ′Override′ button.

LOCKING | CONTROL | ACTIVATION | ACCESS www.camdencontrols.com | info@camdencontrols.com | US: 1-833-726-3367 | CA: 1-877-226-3369

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sident key for your community!

r Allegion Representative to get started. MARKET TRENDS TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

ACCESS CONTROL

e Allegion plc, its subsidiaries respective owners.

Embracing a Mobile-First Strategy for Modern Multifamily Access Control 2026-08-13 11:42 AM

As a property manager, you know firsthand the challenges that come with managing physical credentials in multifamily environments. Adopting a mobile-first approach to access control is becoming crucial for improving operational efficiency and boosting resident satisfaction. Breaking Free from Physical Credential Management Managing traditional credentials can consume valuable resources. Creating, securing, distributing, and collecting physical credentials for residents can be time-consuming and inefficient. Even if it takes just a few minutes to create each credential, the time adds up across your portfolio. The staff time required for physical handoffs can often take 5-10 minutes per resident, contributing to task saturation for your property teams. Switching to a mobile-first approach can eliminate these inefficiencies. By using data from your property management system, virtual credentials can be automatically generated and sent via email, allowing residents to download and use them immediately. This automation frees your team to focus on activities that directly impact resident satisfaction and retention. Enhanced Security Without Compromise Mobile credentials offer better security than physical keys or fobs. Smartphones have strong encryption built in, providing better protection against unauthorized access without making things more complicated. Beyond encryption, mobile credentials are simply harder to lose or share inappropriately. While a resident might loan out a physical key or fob, they’re significantly less likely to hand over their smartphone. If a phone is lost, the mobile credential can be deactivated remotely immediately, eliminating the need to rekey locks or replace physical devices. Bridging the Gap to Offline Devices One of the key benefits of mobile credentials is their ability to connect online and offline devices, which is important because many locks are still offline. When residents use their

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SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

mobile devices to access their unit locks, these interactions can send useful data back to your management system. This real-time data helps you perform proactive maintenance and improves security tracking. Mobile Credential Options for Every Property Today’s mobile credential landscape offers two primary approaches: BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) credentials operate through a dedicated app. Residents open the app, which recognizes nearby locks they have access to, then tap to unlock, similar to the hotel mobile key experience many are familiar with. NFC (Near Field Communication) credentials deliver a tapand-go experience through platforms like Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Users simply tap their phone or smartwatch against the lock, similar to the motion they’re already accustomed to with physical fobs. This premium option offers maximum convenience without sacrificing security. Enabling Remote Management at Scale As the multifamily industry moves toward centralized management models, mobile credentials become even more valuable. Staff no longer need to be physically present to issue or collect credentials, they can manage access rights from anywhere, allowing for more efficient resource allocation across your portfolio. At Zentra, we’re dedicated to helping property management teams leverage mobile credentials to reduce operational burdens while enhancing security and resident experience. Whether you’re upgrading to electronic locks for the first time or enhancing an existing setup, Zentra makes it easy. With its powerful features, seamless workflows, and intuitive interface, Zentra gives you everything you need to manage property access without breaking a sweat. Ready to take the stress out of access management? Zentra is here to transform the way you work and to keep your residents happy and secure every step of the way.


Elevate your resident's access experience with resident key.

Wallet credential can be used in conjunction, or as a full replacement, for existing physical fobs in your community.

Resident key is an additional feature with Zentra that gives your resident's the unparalleled experience of tap and go access.

Activation is quick and simple. Residents can add resident key to their Apple Wallet or Google Wallet in just a few clicks.

Access your community with your key in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet —from your apartment to elevators and common areas. Just hold your smart device near the reader to unlock. It’s easy, convenient, and secure.

Zentra is proud to be the first company to bring resident key in both Apple Wallet and Google Wallet to both resident units and perimeter doors.

Get resident key for your community! Contact your Allegion Representative to get started.

Allegion, the Allegion Logo, Schlage, the Schlage Logo, Zentra, and the Zentra logo are all trademarks of the Allegion plc, its subsidiaries SP&T owners. News Technology Handbook - Access Control and/or the affiliates in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Future-ready, seamless connection flexibility Today’s devices need future-proof connection technology. Designers work in a compact footprint, which drives the need for connectors with fast wiring, high compatibility, and maximum design freedom. Phoenix Contact’s SPTH series Push-in PCB terminal blocks in TWIN design make it easy to switch between screw and Push-in connections without any modifications to the PCB or housing.

Compact, powerful, and versatile

The SPTH 1,5 PCB terminal block has the same footprint as the popular MKDS 1,5 terminal block. But where the MKDS uses screw connections, the SPTH PCB terminal blocks include Phoenix Contact’s Push-in Technology. Both connectors have a compact design and connection crosssections of up to 4 mm². Identical pinning and a uniform design allow flexibility in the choice of connection technology. The connectors reduce space requirements and simplify planning, production, and inventory management.

The SPTH family offers a generous opening for safe, efficient field testing. The integrated testing option facilitates quick and convenient testing with all standard test probes up to Ø 2 mm. This reduces commissioning and troubleshooting time while increasing application reliability. The insertion geometry of the solder pins is optimized for the assembly process. The special insertion shape means the pins are inserted precisely and securely into the PCB, reducing the mounting effort. The result is a reliable and durable electrical connection.

Push-in Technology for fast, secure connections

The SPTH series connects with Phoenix Contact’s popular Push-in Technology. Rigid and flexible conductors with ferrules can be connected easily and safely without using additional tools. This saves valuable installation time and results in a permanent, reliable connection. To release a conductor, push the color-coded actuating button. Push-in Technology makes installation in any application quick, easy, and efficient. Compared with a screw connection, Push-in Technology reduces installation time by up to 50 percent. Spring-cage technology makes the connections vibration-resistant and maintenancefree. Unlike screws, there’s no need for retightening and torque control.

Leap into the future instead of redesign

The MKDS 1,5 (left) and the SPTH 1,5 (right) have identical footprints and pinning, but use different connection technologies.

The SPTH 1,5 series’ compact design takes up about 20 percent less space than conventional terminal blocks with Push-in connection. This enables efficient use of the PCB and creates more space for additional components or functions. Despite its small size, operation is convenient, and Phoenix Contact’s expertise in connection technology ensures the highest quality.

The SPTH series opens up new possibilities in device development. Since the MKDS and SPTH families share an identical footprint, designers can easily modernize connection technology without modifying existing designs. Phoenix Contact supports the design-in process with free CAD data, 3D models, an online configurator, and a sample service. The MKDS product family is commonly used in industrial controllers and frequency converters, so the SPTH brings Push-in Technology to these applications. It is ideal for applications that require a compact design and fast wiring, such as control, sensor, embedded, and automation technologies. They are commonly used in building and factory automation, the process industry, and the renewable energy sector.

To see the benefits of the SPTH series, request a free sample and test the Push-in PCB terminal blocks in TWIN design. 16

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control


Future-ready SPTH 1,5 and SPTH 3 connectors Screw and push-in connections without PCB or housing modifications Future-proof your device connection technology with the SPTH series push-in PCB terminal blocks in the flexible TWIN design, enabling you to switch between screw and push-in connections without any modifications to the PCB or housing. Benefit from fast wiring, seamless compatibility, and maximum design freedom, while maintaining the same footprint. Experience more design flexibility for yourself! Request a free sample and test the TWIN push-in PCB terminal blocks in your application. See how easily you can modernize your connection technology without making any layout changes.

❯ Learn more and request a free sample here

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Introducing Clear Audio at Every Door Achieve Premium Audio and Video at Every Entrance

The physical security of a building starts with the entry and exit points. This is especially true for multi-tenant buildings, which have a constant flow of traffic in and out of the building from employees, maintenance, vendors, visitors, and more. Whether it’s a mix of commercial units or a building blending commercial and residential, building owners, tenants and visitors all need swift and seamless access while also feeling safe and protected.

Audio’s Role in Securing Doors and Entrances

Consider this scenario: an individual walks up to a locked entrance after hours at a commercial building and begins waving his hands in an aggressive manner and tries to gain entrance. The security officer can see him on video surveillance, but without audio, he can’t truly identify the individual’s intent. That’s where audio plays a crucial role. Audio can detect noises that are not within direct view of a video camera and can also mitigate security issues. Only someone’s voice can help security teams to really understand a situation, as audio adds “ears” to “eyes” in any situation. Door entry intercom solutions are a vital component of comprehensive security systems across various environments, including corporate buildings, schools, data centers, and other high-security facilities where access control is essential. These audio solutions allow occupants to quickly and easily identify and communicate with visitors before granting entry, enhancing both security and convenience. Zenitel’s door entry intercoms deliver exceptional audio performance even in the noisiest environments. With a perfect blend of premium hardware, advanced software-driven audio processing, and precision engineering, the intercoms ensure the most realistic audio experience. Designed for adaptability, the intercoms maintain consistent performance in any setting as they can cut through background noise and ensure reliable audio in harsh outdoor conditions like heavy rain, traffic or strong winds. 18

SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

“Door entry intercom solutions are a vital component of comprehensive security systems as they allow security teams to identify and communicate quickly and easily with visitors before granting entry, which enhances both security and convenience.” Choosing a Door Intercom

How do you select the right door intercom for your facility? Here’s a quick checklist to evaluate solutions: • Can it be positioned inside or outside? • Can it be easily disassembled to replace core components for upgrades and repairs? • Are the product design and materials used aligned with the aesthetics of modern buildings? • Does it have energy efficiency features to minimize power usage in line with sustainability objectives? • Does it offer visual and aural feedback to support accessibility for all users? • Can the quality of the audio cope with high-noise environments? And take care with that last question. If the audio quality cannot meet the demands of the environment, security, convenience and user experience quickly disappear.

Zenitel’s New Door Intercoms for Secure Doors and Entrances

Zenitel offers two new door intercoms that provide a premium audio experience in a sleek design that seamlessly blends into any building. With ONVIF compatibility, they integrate with surveillance systems, providing an additional layer of security for effective identification and entry control. The Zenitel Display Door (ZDD-1) intercom combines a sleek, low-profile design and gives a welcoming experience for visitors with two-way video communication. It incorporates HD voice, Active Noise Cancellation, and a 4 x 4W Class D smart amplifier for optimal audio performance. The Zenitel Slim Door (ZSD-1) mullion intercom solves the challenge for tight spaces and door frames. Specific features include HD voice quality, Open Duplex communication, and advanced noise and acoustic echo cancellation.

Learn more about Zenitel’s new door entry intercom solutions here: https://www.zenitel.com/door-entry-intercom-solutions


Secure your Doors and Entrances Audio solutions from Zenitel: Excellent audio clarity High-definition, face-to-face communication experience Inclusive design Easy to install and integrate High-quality materials for longevity

Learn more

Zenitel Display Door Intercom

Zenitel Slim Door Intercom

zenitel.com SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

TOA’s CX-1000 Series Unifies IP Intercom and Access Control As organizations place greater emphasis on security, operational efficiency, and occupant safety, traditional intercom systems are no longer enough. Modern facilities require integrated solutions that combine communication, video verification, mass notification, and access management into a single platform. TOA Canada Corporation’s new CX-1000 Series was designed to meet these evolving demands, delivering a next-generation IP communication system that seamlessly combines voice, video, and broadcasting while enhancing access control capabilities. The CX-1000 Series goes beyond the role of a conventional intercom. Built on an IP-based architecture, the platform integrates voice calls, live video, and broadcast functions into one centralized system, enabling organizations to improve both security and day-to-day operations. By supporting standard protocols such as SIP and CCTV integration, the system can communicate with existing security and building management infrastructure while remaining flexible for future expansion. Unlike many competitors, the CX-1000 is fully functional without the need for a renewable license or ongoing SaaS charges, meaning that facilities aren’t burdened by unending costs. At building entrances, gates, parking facilities, and secured areas, visitors can initiate communication through the rugged CX-CL1750 Video Call Station or CX-CL1550 Call Station. Security personnel can then respond from a centralized operation station, communicate directly with the visitor, and assess the situation before granting access. Through the CX-OP1700 Video Operation Station, security staff can simultaneously review live CCTV footage, manage calls, and perform door control actions from a single interface—creating a faster and more secure visitor management process while reducing the need for on-site personnel at every entry point. The platform’s access control capabilities extend beyond simple door release. The CX-1000 Series supports remote control of electric locks, gates, and other connected devices through integrated control inputs and outputs. For example, once a visitor’s identity has been verified through voice and video communication, an operator can remotely unlock a door

directly from the system. This streamlined workflow enhances security while delivering a smooth and professional experience for visitors and employees alike. Unlike many intercom solutions, the CX-1000 Series also incorporates powerful broadcasting functionality. Drawing on TOA’s decades of expertise in emergency communication and voice evacuation systems, the platform allows operators to deliver live announcements, scheduled messages, background music, or emergency broadcasts across selected areas or entire facilities. In the event of a security threat, emergency, or operational disruption, personnel can verify conditions through video, communicate directly with occupants, and broadcast evacuation instructions from the same system. This unified approach is especially valuable in large campuses, corporate buildings, educational institutions, parking facilities, and other multi-building environments. The CX-1000 Series supports up to 3,000 connected devices and enables centralized management of communication, surveillance integration, access control functions, and other audio notifications from a single platform. Advanced fault monitoring, network redundancy, and browser-based management tools further simplify administration and improve system reliability. As organizations continue to modernize their security infrastructure, the integration of intercoms and access control is becoming a strategic necessity. The CX-1000 Series delivers a comprehensive solution in one scalable platform, resulting in a smarter, safer, and more connected environment. With the CX-1000 Series, security teams can see, communicate, verify, and respond with confidence. Ready to modernize your facility’s communications and security infrastructure? Discover how the TOA CX-1000 Series can unify voice communication, video verification, broadcasting, and access control into a single, scalable platform. Contact TOA Canada Corporation to discuss your project requirements and learn how the CX-1000 Series can help create a safer, more connected environment for your organization.

www.toacanada.com | sales@toacanada.com | 1-800-263-7639 20 SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control


TOA CX-1000 Series » Access Control & Communication » Intercom & Audio Broadcasting » IP Integration & Connectivity

Your Voice, Your Vision, Your Broadcast, All Without a Software License.

TOA Canada Corporation www.toacanada.com sales@toacanada.com 1-800-263-7639

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MARKET TRENDSHANDBOOK TECHNOLOGY

ACCESS CONTROL

Canadian-Built. Partner-Focused. Powered by Possibility. Proudly Canadian, Hartmann Controls designs access control solutions that combine flexibility, reliability, and scalability for projects of all sizes.

Support That Shows Up

From universities and municipalities to airports, critical infrastructure, and beyond, Hartmann technology is built to adapt to a wide range of environments and complex security requirements, giving you the freedom to design solutions around each project, not the other way around.

Hartmann has built its partner relationships around responsive, knowledgeable support. Our Canadian-based technical team works directly with integrators to troubleshoot issues, answer questions, and keep projects moving.

Technology is only part of a successful installation. The people behind it matter just as much.

Advanced Customization with ACE

Flexibility at Our Core

At the heart of Hartmann’s flexibility is Odyssey, our unified security platform. Customizable dashboards and configurable features allow users to shape the system around their operational needs, putting the information and controls that matter most front and centre. Odyssey brings access control together with video, intrusion, intercom, mobile credentials, elevator control, and other integrated security functions through a centralized platform. Support for a range of third-party technologies gives integrators more freedom to select the right components for each installation. That same flexibility extends to Hartmann hardware. From traditional control panels to distributed intelligent controllers, its easy to choose the approach that best fits the size, layout, and requirements of each project. Our hardware is also designed to be straightforward to install, troubleshoot, and maintain in the field. Whether securing a single building or managing multiple locations, Hartmann systems are designed to scale and adapt as requirements evolve.

Hartmann’s Action Control Engine (ACE) gives integrators the ability to create custom rules, automated responses, and workflows based on system events and operational requirements. From schedules and access events to more sophisticated security logic, ACE helps tailor Odyssey to the specific needs of a customer or environment without adding unnecessary complexity.

Seamless Integrations

Hartmann supports integrations with a range of security technologies, including video management systems, locksets, intrusion systems, intercoms, and mobile credential solutions. This gives integrators greater freedom to bring together the technologies that best suit the requirements of each installation.

Ready to Secure Your Future?

At Hartmann Controls, we don’t just deliver access control technology, we build long-term partnerships grounded in trust, innovation, and shared success. Canadian-owned and operated, Hartmann combines adaptable technology with partner-focused support to help integrators take on projects of virtually any scale.

Learn more at www.hartmann-controls.com.

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SP&T News Technology Handbook - Access Control


Unified Access, Built in Canada. Trusted Globally. Access Control

Video Management

Visitor Management

Alarm

Lockset

Biometrics

Deployment Options

Cloud

Embedded

Dealer Hosted

On-Site

Access Control Software

O d o D Y S S e E Y

protector.net

Enterprise System

Streamline System

PRS Door Controller

Over Door Module

PRS Elevator Controller

Control up to 8 Doors.

1 - 2 Door With Motion Sensor.

Control up to 64 Floors.

Integration Partners

sales@hartmann-controls.com

www.hartmann-controls.com

+1 877 411 0101

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