Security and access control system terminology - Leading Construction and Building Group

 

 

Access Card - A coded card, usually the size of a credit card, recognizable to the access control system and read by a reader to allow access. It can be used for photo identification of the cardholder and for other data collection purposes. Card technologies include magnetic strips, Wiegand effect, proximity (active/passive), barium ferrite, and smart/intelligent cards.

Access Control - Controlling access to a port of entry in a physical area or into a computer.

Access control - Access control is a general term describing the management of the entrance and exit of people through secure areas.

Access Control Network - "An access control network is an interconnected set of controllers, managing the entrance and exit of people through secure areas."

Access Group - An access group combines time zones and doors into a superset of information that is applied to users. Basically an access group defines at what times and through which doors users are granted access. To be granted access to a secure door, a user must meet the criteria of the access group assigned to the user: be at a door that is a member of the access group during a time period within the time zone assigned to the access group.

Access Level - The door or combination of doors and/or barriers an individual is authorized to pass through.

Access Point - The means of entry into a controlled security area,consisting of a card reader, monitor switches and/or latches. Access points are wired to an access control panel.

Access Time - The period of time during which an access point is unlocked.

Active Card - A type of access control card, powered by the card reader into which it is inserted, that transmits a readable signal that is read by specialized scanning sensors.

Actuator - A manual or automatic switch or sensor such as a Holdup Button, Magnetic Switch or Thermostat that causes a system to transmit an alarm signal when manually activated or when the automatically senses an intruder or other unwanted condition.

Address, (controller) - Each controller must be assigned a unique address, identifying that controller in the network. A controller address is similar to a home address. By addressing an envelope, mail is sent to a specific individual at a specific home. By assigning unique controller addresses, operating information can be sent directly to specific controllers.

Alarm Control - "When a PXL-510 master controller is connected to a NetworX NX-8E alarm panel, any of the readers on the access control network can be set up to arm/disarm the alarm system by presenting an access card"

Alphanumeric - Combination of numbers and letters typically used in an access code.

Amnesty - Amnesty allows a card/user to violate anti passback rules and reenter a secure area that a controller has tracked as having already been entered by that card/user. (See anti passback.)

Annunciator - An audible and/or visual signaling device.

Ambush code - A special code given verbally or entered on an alarm or access control system's digital keypad to indicate an emergency situation.

Anti-Passback (APB) - A feature of an access control system that prevents successive use of one card to pass through any door, turnstile or portal in the same direction. To attain this type of protection, a separate reader is required at each entry and exit. Anti-passback prevents a card from being passed back to another person for the purpose of unauthorized access.

Archive File Type - The selection of the archive file type determines how event files will be archived. There are three types to choose from: yearly (default); monthly; or weekly.

Aspect Ratio - The aspect ratio is a scaling number based on the height versus width of a graphic. When resizing graphics, as the height changes, the width changes a corresponding amount maintaining the aspect ratio. This ensures the graphic appears correct regardless of the new size of the graphic.

Authorization Level - A pre-defined security rating which must be met before access to a protected area is granted. Authorization Level is sometimes referred to as Access Level, Access Group or Status Level.

Authorized Person - A person who has a "need to know" classification and has been cleared to enter secure areas.

Authorized User - A person authorized to use a credential to electronically gain access into a door controlled by an EAC system.

Auto-collection - Auto-collection allows the host computer to automatically receive event information from the controller’s event buffer, when the controller’s buffer becomes full.

Auto-Config - See auto-configuration below.

Auto-Configuration - Auto-configuration is a process within the Doors.NET software where the software polls the access control network to determine which controllers on the access control network are responding and then receive configuration information from these controllers.

Automatic Time Switch - A timing device that turns on and off locking devices at pre-set times.

Badge - To use a card key and a reader to gain access to protected areas; a card key itself, especially one with a photo I.D.

Badge Reader - A sensor used to scan and interpret data enclosed in a personal identification badge.

Bar Code Card - A series of lines (or bars) printed on a card in a certain format that forms a code that is optically read by a reader.

Badging - The act of creating an ID card. Photo badging includes a picture on the card.

Banner Message - The EntraGuard controller may be set up to display up to three rotating banner messages on the LCD.

Bar Code Reader - A device that scans bar code information and transmits it to a central computer or control unit. These units can take the form of readers, wands, or gun shaped scanners.

Barium Ferrite - A magnetic material is embedded in a card and is encoded to produce individual codes.

Batch Programming - A method of processing data in which transactions are collected and prepared for input to the controller for processing as a single unit, in a central control system. The ability to program, alter or cancel groups of cards with the same access parameters in a single speed operation.

Battery Backup - A standby energy source, which serves a fixed and specified purpose in the event of a power failure. Battery back up can be used to maintain data in memory, keep the system clock updated or operate card readers, door strikes, dead bolts, and/or magnetic locks if a power failure occurs.

Baud - The unit of speed of signal transmission, expressed in bits per second (BPS).

Biometrics - The ability to use the physical characteristics of an object, such as an eye, to identify a person or animal.

Bus - In a computer or data transmission system, it is the principal channels connecting major elements (address bus, control bus, data bus and etc.)

Byte - A group of eight binary data bits.

Buffer Capacity - Refers to the amount of information the system can store, this may include the users, time of day and specific door.

Card - A card is referred to as any type of credential used to carry electronic information in a EAC system. A card is an access control identification device assigned to an individual to give that individual access rights to an access control network. It is the size of a credit card. Each card has a unique identification code. That identification code is then associated with an access group to determine through which doors and at what times users are granted access.

Card Access - A term denoting a type of access control system that uses encoded cards and card readers to allow access to protected areas.

Card PIN - The Card PIN (Personal Identification Number) is a special number automatically generated and assigned to a card during enrollment when the card+PIN feature has been enabled. Only for use with a P-650 Card+PIN Proximity Reader and Keypad, PXL-250W controller, and 26-bit Wiegand access cards. This PIN allows a secondary verification of a user by requiring a PIN be entered after presenting a valid access card. The Card PIN cannot be changed or edited and must be given to the user with the card.

Card Number - The card number is the second set of digits printed on the body of the access control card or tag. The card number will be more than 4 digits long.

Cardholder - A cardholder is an individual who has been assigned an access control card or tag.(See user.)

Chip-In-Card - A identification or access control card with a built in integrated circuit (chip), giving the card coded memory to microprocessor intelligence to record and store data. SMART Card.

Code, Digital - An access code, signal transmission, containing data in digital or numerical form.

Collecting Events - Collecting events from all controllers clears the controller buffers and stores the events in an event file on the hard disk. Event data can then be processed into report format. Collection of events can take place while updating or while monitoring."

COM port - A COM port is a serial data communications device on a computer. Communication between the host computer and the access control network is done through this device.

Connect Timer - The EntraGuard connect timer determines the length of connection between the EntraGuard unit and the tenant’s telephone.

Contact - A magnetically or mechanically operated electrically conductive point or set of points that open and closes to interrupt or permit the flow of current.

Control Center - A center in the facility where the card access and alarm sub-system are supervised and where personnel are maintained continuously to record and investigate alarms and/or trouble signals.

Controller (1) - This is a specialized computer that manages access for specific doors and related devices. It can be called a "panel", a "control panel", and a "micro-controller" or other names depending on the manufacturer.

Controller (2) - A controller is a microprocessor based circuit board that manages access to a secure area. The controller receives information that it uses to determine through which doors and at what times users are granted access to that secure area. Based on that information, the controller can lock/ unlock doors, sound alarms, and communicate status to a host computer.

Database (1) - A collection of data used and produced by a computer program. The files created at the host of the access control system forms it database.

Database (2) - A database is an organized set of information.

Daylight Savings Adjustment - Enabling the daylight savings adjustment allows the controllers to automatically adjust the time on the controllers when daylight savings time comes and goes.

Dedicated I/O point - A dedicated I/O point is an input point that is dedicated to an Auxiliary RTE function or anoutput point that is dedicated to single-door annunciation of Door Forced or Door Held Open alarms.

Department Group - A department group is an operator assigned field in the user database. It is not actively used by the Doors software, but is provided to allow an operator to sort the users within the database based on the department for which they work.

Desktop - The desktop is the primary window in the Windows operating system, from which programs are started.

Dial Timezone - A dial timezone is a definition of the time-of-day and the days-of-the-week when a tenant will accept a call from visitors requesting access through the EntraGuard unit. The process to set up a Dial Timezone is the same as setting up any time zone.

Dialog Box - A dialog box is a text window that the Doors software displays on screen when the software needs information from an operator. The operator enters the information by reading the instructions in the window and then filling-in-the-blanks in designated fields in the window.

Digital Tablet - A digital tablet is an input device used to input a user’s signature. It is made up of an electronic tablet and a stylus (a device rather like a pen or pencil). The user simply uses the stylus to write the user’s name on the tablet. As the user is writing, the characters being written are displayed on screen. This digital version of the user’s signature can then be used on a user’s photo ID badge. (See stylus.)

Directory Code - The directory code is the set of numbers used by visitors at the EntraGuard controller to dial up the person they wish to contact. The tenant may then either grant or deny visitor access to the building.

Distributed Card Access Control - A system in which all access control decisions are made at the control point, independent of the central processing unit.

Distributed Processing - Decentralization of information or data processing by local intelligent devices, like stand-alone card readers.

Distributed System - An access control system where the devices make their own access decisions, uploading event messages periodically to the central processing unit for storage.

Distributed Intelligence Device - Access Control devices that make their own access decisions and upload event messages periodically to the central processing unit for storage.

Door Class - An operator may assign a class to the doors so that door commands can be performed on all doors grouped within a class.

Door Closer - This is the mechanical device that uses a spiff spring and/or hydraulic system to automatically close an open door.

Door Name - An operator can assign a descriptive name to a door on the access control system

Download - Downloading is the process by which the host computer receives information from the access control network; information is downloaded to the host computer. (See upload.)

Dual Technology Sensor - Any motion sensor that logically combines two or more motion sensing elements to reduce the likelihood of a false alarm. Combinations of PIR and Microwave elements are the most common.

Dual Verification - The use of two credentials to gain access into a secure area.

EAC - Acronym for "Electronic Access Control"

Egress - Exit, depart, leave, a term for exiting a secure area - (opposite of ingress).

Egress Button - A button near an EAC controlled door that, when pushed, sends a signal to the controller that someone wants to leave the area.(SEE RTE, REX and EXIT Button).

Electric Lock - A standard lock, such as a cylindrical or mortise style, which is controlled by a small electric motor.

Electric Strike - An electrical device operated from a remote location allowing a locked door to be opened by push or pull.

Electrified Hinge - A special door hinge that looks like any other door hinge except it carries wire to an electric strike or lock installed door.

Electromagnetic - Pertaining to combined electric & magnetic fields associated with movements of electrons through conductors.

Electromagnetic Lock - A locking device that uses magnetism to hold the door securely closed. An electromagnetic lock is typically used as a secondary means of securing the door.

Electronic Access Control - Controlling entry into a physical area by means of a controller and electronic components including locks, readers, sensors, buttons and more.

Embossed Card - A type of access control card that uses a raised pattern as a means of encoding.

Enroll (1) - The act of signing someone into the EAC system.

Enroll (2) - Enrolling is the process of activating a card for use by a user in the access control network. A card must be entered into the access control network and then assigned to a user.

EntraGuard - EntraGuard refers to the use of the EntraGuard Telephone Entry line of controllers on the access control network. This controller allows visitors to call a tenant requesting entry through an access controlled door. The tenant then has the ability to either grant or deny that request.( See Telephone Entry System).

EntraGuard IDs - See user ID.

Entrance Delay - The time between actuation of a sensor on an entrance door or gate and the sounding of a local alarm or transmission of an alarm signal by the control unit. The delay is used if the card access reader is located within the protected area and permits a person with an access card/key to enter without causing an alarm. The delay is provided by a timer within the control unit. Some delays are built into the locking device. Most are a part of the reader/control unit.

Eprom - Erasable Programmable read only memory.

EEprom - Electronically Erasable Programmable read only memory.

Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) - A programmed memory (often in a chip) that cannot only be read, but can be repeatedly erased under high-intensity ultraviolet light and reprogrammed.

Event - An event is an occurrence at a controller (such as unlocking a door, requesting to exit, forcing a door open) that generates a message stored by the controller

Exit Alarm - An electrically operated device indicating either audibly or silently the unauthorized opening of a secured door.

Exit Lock - A rim lock operated by a push bar extending part way or almost all the way across the width door used for emergency egress and incorporating an exit alarm.

Exit Switch - A push button, switch mat, proximity detector, or other device that starts a timer in the reader interface electronics when someone is leaving through a controlled entry or exit. The timer bypass (shunts) the door-open detector for a selected period of time.

Exit Reader - A reader that controls egress from a controlled area.

Facility Code - A code typically used in security and access control systems that identifies the customer of location of the system.

Fail Safe - On loss of power, access points will automatically unlock allowing free access, and signal the card access system of a device malfunction or loss of power.

Fail-Unlocked - An electric look that automatically unlocks with any power interruption. Also called fail-safe.

Fail Secure - In an access control system, a condition whereby controlled doors automatically lock in the case of equipment failure of power loss.

Fail Secure Lock - A lock, which is in a latched or locked state when the unit is not energized.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - The IS government agency that regulates communications by telephone, telegraph, radio and television.

Finger Pattern Area - The part of a fingerprint's loops, whorls and arches in which appear identifying characteristics.

Fingerprint Reader - A high security biometric access control device that identifies a person by his fingerprints. After the finger is placed on a light sensitive plate, the print is read and compared to images stored in a computer's memory. If the print matches one stored in memory, access is granted.

Firmware (1) - The operating system for the controller held in a Prom or Eprom chip.

Firmware (2) - Firmware is a set of operating instructions for a controller, stored on a ROM on the controller.

First Person In - The First Person In (FPI) function allows an operator to determine if a door should be automatically unlocked when the unlock/lock time zone begins or if the door should not automatically unlock until after a person presenting a valid card arrives. This feature is used whenever there is a concern that employees may be delayed in arriving to a secured site (perhaps due to inclement weather).

Function Key - A key on a keyboard or keypad dedicated for a specific use. Pressing the key causes a specific pre-determined response, such as bypassing an intrusion alarm sensor.

General Protection Fault - A general protection fault (GPF) occurs whenever a program executes a command that the operating system considers dangerous to the operating system. When a GPF is generated, the program that generated the GPF is closed and control is returned to the operating system.

Global Secure - Global secure allows an operator to set a time of day at which all doors that are not under automatic control (i.e. controlled by an unlock/lock time zone) are locked."

Global Unlock - Global unlock is a feature that designates a specific input on the PXL-500 controller to be used to automatically unlock all doors in the access control network.

Guard Tour - A defined route of a security guard.

Hand Geometry - An access control technology that verifies a person's identity by comparing relative variation in finger lengths and thickness.

Hertz (Hz) - The unit of frequency for a periodic phenomenon of which the period is one second.

Historical Recording - A chronological record of events, in an alarm or access control system. Also called historical logging.

Hollerith Card - A type of access card having small holes that can be read by a light source or contact brushes. A Hollerith card is easily duplicated, and is not suitable for high security applications.

Host Computer (1) - A main controlling entity in a system with multiple processing units.

Host Computer (2) - The host computer is the computer running the Doors software and communicating with the access control network.

Identification - The act of recognizing a person as unique from all others. This act may be done by another person on sight aided by proper documentation, by a machine using a card or a keypad data, or by biometric techniques.

Ingress (1) - Enter (opposite of egress).

Ingress (2) - Ingress is a term for entering a secured area. (See egress.)

Input (1) - A point on a controller at which an input device (such as a reader, to other sensor) is connected.

Input (2) - An input is a set of points on a controller that is able to receive a signal indicating when an external device changes state. For example, the door switch input on the controller is attached to a switch on the door. Using the switch, the input is able to keep track of when the door is opened or closed; when the switch is open, the door is open and when the switch is closed, the door is closed."

Insertion Card - In card based access control terms, a card that is inserted into a reader, rather than swiped through, or placed near intelligent terminal or device. Distributed access control device that make their own access decisions, uploading event message periodically to the central processing unit for storage. These devices can also communicate with the CPU and new operating instructions can be downloaded for the CPU to the intelligent device.

Interlocking Strike - A strike with a vertical, rotary or dead bolt.

Jamb Strike - The portion of a door assembly that receives and holds an extended lock bolt.

Key - A device carrying a mechanical code configuration that unlocks a locking mechanism.

Keyboard - A device, like a typewriter, for entries into a computer, calculator, etc.

Key Control - In an EAC system, key assignments and control is managed by the controller.

Keyless Access Control - An entry control system using a means other than a key and lock. The term usually refers to digital keypad or card reader used in conjunction with an electrically controlled locking device.

Keypad - A device for inputting information into a computer controlled system for the purpose of arming and disarming an alarm system, or operating an access control system.

Keyswitch - A lockable switch that is operated by a key, which is inserted into its barrel and turned.

LCD - An acronym for Liquid Crystal Display.

LED - The abbreviation for Light Emitting Diode.

Linear Power Supply - A power supply using a series regulator to control voltage by dissipation excess voltage as heat. Provides a very high quality output at the expense of power efficiency.

Lock, Digital - A type of mechanical lock that is opened by pressing numbered buttons.

Logging - The process of creating a permanent record or log.

Log On - Log on is the process by which an operator enters a name and a password that identifies that operator to the Doors program. This identification is used by the program to control which commands an operator is authorized to perform and track which operations the operator does perform.

Loopback Plug - A loopback plug is a small, serial port connector used by the COMTEST program to verify basic operation of the host computer’s COM port. It is used to route signals sent out via the COM port transmit line back to the COM port receive line. Before running the COMTEST, the loopback plug is connected to the COM port designated for use by the Doors software. When the test is complete, the loopback plug is removed and the communication line is connected.

Magnetic Keycard - A plastic card containing thousands of magnetic bits or particles, which can be arranged to match the required pattern, set up in a card reader.

Magnetic Stripe - A band of ferrous material that is sealed onto or into a card key or credit card.

Magnetic Switch - A switch that consists of two separate units magnetically actuated switch and a magnet. The switch is usually mounted in a fixed position (door jamb or window frame) opposing the magnet, which is fastened to a hinge to sliding door, window, gate, and etc. When the movable section is opened, the magnet moves with it, activating the switch.

Man Trap - An arrangement of doors, usually forming a small corridor or booth, that allows a person to enter and be identified before proceeding into a controlled area. Most mantraps are engineered so that both doors are locked as soon as a person enters, effectively trapping the individual until identification is made.

Master Code Card - A special access control card containing a code that grants entry and exit at all card readers in a system

Menu Bar - A menu bar is a horizontal field near the top of a program window of a program operating in a Windows operating system that allows a program operator to select program commands and options.

Message Timer - The EntraGuard message timer determines the length of time a banner message is displayed on the EntraGuard LCD before changing to the next banner message.

Mixed-Technology Cards - A card that uses several information technologies, such as Smart Card, RFID, magnetic stripe and bar codes.

Modem (1) - A device that converts the computer system's digital information into analog information and transmits it over a telephone line. Another modem must be used when the information is received to convert the information back from analog to digital.

Modem (2) - A modem is a communication device that converts computer serial data to a format that can be transmitted and received via telephone.

Momentary Switch - A switch that, after being activated, automatically returns to its original position; a spring-loaded contact that, when pressed, closes two contacts, and when pressure is removed, opens the contact.

Multiple Sites - See site.

Non-Distributed System - A computer or EAC network that requires a single "host computer" that supplies the programming and decision making resources to other computer and EAC controllers in the system.

Off-line - The access control network is off-line when it is not actively communicating with the host computer.

Online - The access control network is online when it is actively communicating with the host computer

Online Help - Online help is a mini-program within the Doors.NET software that provides basic descriptions and instructions for use of the software. Online help can be run at the same time as the Doors.NET program, side-by-side, making it easier for an operator to receive basic information regarding a program command or operation."

Operator - An operator is an individual who has been granted the authority to perform certain Doors program managerial operations.

Output - An output is a relay on a controller that is toggled, to open or close an external circuit based on either commands programmed into the controller or based on the state of an input. For example, if a door is forced open, an output relay is programmed to sound an alarm.

Palm Geometry Reader - A biometric access control device that scans and reads the size and shape characteristics of a person's palm as criteria for granting and denying access.

Panic Bar - A device, usually a small electrical switch in a mounting plate, used for unlocking a door in an emergency.

Passive Infrared (PIR) Detector - A sensor that detects the changes in the infrared energy radiating from a human being.

Personal Identification Number (PIN) (1) - A unique numerical code used alone or in conjunction with other access control technologies to gain access to a protected area.

Personal Identification Number (PIN) (2) - A personal identification number is a means of providing an extra level of security. PINs may be assigned to a site by an operator, allowing some operators to access a remote site, but not all; and a PIN may be assigned in connection with the P-650 Card+PIN Proximity Reader and Keypad, requiring a user to enter a personal identification number after presenting a valid access card.

Piggybacking - Tailgating.

PIN - An acronym for personal identification number (see personal identification number)

Plenum - The space that moves environmental air throughout a building. Plenum areas are generally in the ceiling, under false floor, or in the HVAC system. These areas require that devices within them be made of nonflammable and non-smoking materials (plenum rated).

Portal Control - An entry/exit control system using two doors, only one of which is locked at any given time. This arrangement differs from a mantrap where both doors lock.

Power Supply - The source of power. In EAC, this refers to the transformer or other device, which supplies the operating power for the EAC system and its components.

Programmable Card - An access control card onto which data may be encoded after the card has been manufactured.

Proximity Card - A radio frequency based card technology that utilizes a micro-circuit which, when presented to a proximity reader, activates the cards' circuitry, thus transmitting the data stored in the card.

Punch Hole Card - An access control technology based on the Hollerith principle, having a specific pattern of punched holes.

Pull-Down Menu - When an operator clicks on an option on the menu bar, a pull-down menu appears listing all the available options for that menu selection. An operator then selects the desired operation.

Push-Button Lock - A mechanical lock, which opens when a numbered or lettered code is pressed in unison or in sequence.

Radio Button - Radio buttons are used whenever a program command has a set of options that require the selection of one and only one option. As an operator clicks on the radio buttons within an option set, the old selection is disabled and the new selection is enabled.

Reader (1) - Any device that reads encoded information from a card or token and transmits the information to a control panel.

Reader (2) - A reader is a device that ""reads"" an identification number from a card or tag presented to the reader by a user. It then sends that identification number to the controller for processing.

Relay - A type of switch actuated by current flowing through a coil wound around an iron core, which is thereby magnetized and attracts an armature, so opening or closing the switch contacts. Removal of the current returns the contact to its resting condition (normally open or normally closed), except in the case of latching relays, which must be reset.

Report - A report is a summary of event information generated from the event log collected from all controllers on the access control network. A report may be displayed on the computer system screen, printed at a local printer, or saved to an ASCII text file for processing by another program.

Request to Exit (RTE) - An input on the controller (or satellite board) that accepts a signal from a normally open input device. The signal indicates a request has been made by someone to exit a secured door.

Retina Reader - A biometric based access control device that scans the blood vessel pattern in a persons' retina and compares it with stored images before granting or denying access.

REX Request to EXit - See request to exit.

ROM - A ROM is a memory device on the controller that permanently stores instructions and information. ROM stands for Read Only Memory, referring to the fact that information can only be read from the device. Information cannot be changed unless the device itself is replaced.

RTE - See request to exit.

Shortcut - A shortcut is a command that directs a program to begin. Typically shortcuts are associated with icons placed on the Windows desktop, i.e. clicking on the Doors icon starts the Doors program.

Shunt To Bypass - When an alarm is bypassed so that it does not activate, it is said to be shunted.

Site - A site is another term for an access control network. Site is generally used when there are more than one access control networks all being managed from one host computer. The Doors software within the host computer keeps track of the different access control networks by assigning each one a site number.

Smart Card - An identification card containing an integrated circuit allowing it to receive and store data, which gives it unlimited microprocessor intelligence.

Smart Update - A smart update uploads to an access control network only the changes that have been made to an existing database.

Smart Terminal - A hardware device that processes access request from card readers or report request to a system processor that can accommodate multiple access control panels.

Slave - Any device that operates on command from another device, but does not do so independently.

Sound Alert - A sound alert is an alarm annunciation for operator selected events. Whenever a selected event occurs (if the Doors program is in monitor mode), an alarm sounds from the host computer that must be acknowledged by the operator by clicking on an icon on the Doors tool bar.

Spreadsheet - A spreadsheet is an organized collection of information managed in a matrix format.

Standalone - An access control system that makes its own access decisions without communicating with a central controller

Strike Plate - A plate, usually of metal, mortised into or mounted on the doorjamb to accept and restrain a bolt when the door is closed

Stylus - A stylus is a writing device rather like a pen or pencil. It is used in conjunction with a digital tablet to allow a user to enter a digital version of a signature for use on a photo ID badge. (See digital tablet.)

Surge Protection - A device that prevents power surges in system or power wiring from affecting or damaging the EAC system or its components.

Swipe Reader - An access control card reader through which a card is passed (swiped) instead of inserted

Tailgating - In access control tailgating is the act of one or more individuals entering a controlled area by using a single card. Also the act of following an authorized person into a controlled area.

Tag - A tag is an access control identification device assigned to an individual to give that individual access rights to an access control network. It is designed to be attached to a key-ring. Each tag has a unique identification code. That identification code is then associated with an access group to determine through which doors and at what times users are granted access.( -- Fob Key tag )

Telephone Entry System - An access system using a telephone located outside the protected area. An individual desiring access dials a coded sequence of numbers to connect him with an operator who grants or sequence of numbers to connect him with an operator who grants or sequence of numbers to connect him with an operator who grants or denies access.

Temp Users - The temp users feature allows an operator to set a future date and time for activation and expiration of a credential.

Temporary Users - See "Temp Users"

Time and Attendance - The means of recording employee time and attendance through a computer-controlled reader.

Time Schedules - Allows for Access based on time of day, date and user. Also allows for holidays, etc.

Time Zone (1) - The periods for each security area as defined by the use. The time zone specifies what time periods that a security area can be entered. Each employee or group of employees is also assigned a time zone. A time zone may contain multiple time intervals such as holidays and times of day for cleaning.

Time Zone (2) - A time zone is a definition of the time-of-day and the days-of-the-week when a user may be granted access to a secure area.

Toolbar - The tool bar is a set of buttons in a horizontal field beneath the menu bar, made up of shortcuts to the commonly used Doors program features.

Transformer - Device that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to another, in most cases without direct connection, and often raising or lowering voltage in the process.

Transient Suppressor - A device that protects data lines from high transient such as lighting and inductive loads. They are recommended where there are data communications lines between the reader and its electronics that are subject to high-transient situations. Two are required one at each end of the exposed communications lines.

Turnstile - A pair of rotating gates.

Twisted Pair - A cable composed of two small substantially insulated conductors, twisted together with or without a common covering.

UL Labeled - Signifies that production samples of the product have been found to comply with established Underwriters Laboratories requirements and that themanufacturer is authorized to use the Laboratories' listing marks on their products.

Unlock/Lock Time Zone - The unlock/lock time zone is a time zone dedicated to automatically unlocking and then locking selected doors based on when the time-of-day when the time zone begins and ends. When the time zone begins, the selected doors are unlocked; when the time zone ends, the selected doors are locked.

Upload - Uploading is the process by which the access control network receives information from the host computer; information is uploaded to the access control network. (See download)

User ID - The user ID is the code a tenant must enter on the EntraGuard controller keypad to be granted access through an EntraGuard controlled door. This number is assigned during the enrollment process.

Verification - The act of verifying an individual after being provided with an adequate clue such as PIN number.

Wiegand Card Key - A plastic card, the shape and approximate size of a credit card, which has an embedded module of inert, specially treated ferromagnetic wires that generate a voltage pulse that can be sensed by a coil within the card reader.

Wiegand Effect - A pulse-generating phenomenon in a special alloy wire that is processed in such a way as to create two distinct magnetic regions in same homogeneous piece of wire, referred to as a shell and a core. These two magnetic regions react differently to any applied magnetic field. The shell requires a strong magnetic field to reverse its magnetic polarity, whereas the core will reverse under weaker field conditions. It is at the point where the shell and core change to different polarity orientations the Wiegand pulse is generated, sensing by a pickup coil (reader).