The Importance of a Control Board in RFID Card Reader and Electromagnetic Lock Integration

An RFID card reader for door access typically needs a control board or access control system to function properly with an electromagnetic lock. While some technicians suggest that connecting the positive and negative wires directly can work, this method is generally not recommended. Without a control board, the system can malfunction, bypass security features, and even cause damage to the equipment. This article explains why a control board is crucial and provides insights into managing staff entry and attendance.

Why a Control Board is Usually Required

Power Management

The primary role of a control board in an access control system is to manage power allocation. It ensures that both the RFID reader and the electromagnetic lock receive the appropriate voltage and current. Connecting the reader directly to the lock without a control board can cause power issues such as underpowering or overloading. This can lead to malfunctioning and potentially expensive repairs.

Signal Processing

The RFID reader generates a signal when a valid card is presented. This signal needs to be processed to trigger the lock mechanism. The control board or access control system handles this process, converting the signal into a command to unlock the door. Directly connecting the wires can result in loss of signal or incorrect processing, making the system unreliable.

Security Features

Control boards and access control systems provide numerous security features, such as real-time monitoring, logging of access events, and integration with alarms or other security devices. Directly connecting the reader to the lock bypasses these features, leaving the system vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Relay Function

The control board often includes a relay that physically controls the electromagnetic lock. The relay ensures that the lock only activates for a brief period, which is typically just long enough for a user to pass through. Without a control board, the lock might stay active indefinitely, leading to security risks.

Direct Connection Issues

While some technicians might suggest bypassing the control board by connecting the positive and negative wires directly, this method is generally not recommended. Technical issues aside, there are significant risks involved.

Bypassing Security

Directly connecting the reader to the lock bypasses all security features and logging capabilities. This means that anyone with access to the door can go in and out without any record of who has entered or exited, leaving a significant security gap in your system.

Potential Damage

Incorrect wiring can damage the reader or the lock due to incorrect voltage or current. Under these circumstances, the reader might not work properly, or the lock might malfunction. In extreme cases, this can lead to complete failure of the system, causing unnecessary downtime and cost.

Lack of Control

Without a control board, you won't have the ability to manage access permissions or track who enters or exits. This makes it extremely difficult to maintain control over access, which is a critical aspect of any secure environment.

Conclusion

In summary, while it might be technically possible to connect an RFID card reader directly to an electromagnetic lock in certain scenarios, it is not advisable due to the lack of security control and potential risks involved. A control board or access control system is the best practice for ensuring safe and reliable operation. It will provide the necessary power management, signal processing, and security features to ensure smooth and secure access control.

Manage Staff Entry and Attendance with One Program

Access to the door using a PIN is not fool-proof as the PIN can be seen by others or even mistakenly informed to other employees. The best way to ensure that only selected people have access is to use a biometric lock. Facial recognition in Singapore has become the most preferred method to restrict entry into restricted areas in offices. Such a door lock cannot be manipulated in any way, which provides a high level of security.

Facial Recognition in Singapore

The bio metric door access system in Singapore has become the most preferred system for offices as it offers to combine two functions into one. With this kind of door lock, you can both prevent the entry of anyone other than your staff and also connect it to your attendance software so that you don't have to check the attendance to see who all have come to the office on a particular date. This system will protect your office from unauthorized entry.

Programmable Access

The lock can also be programmed to give selective entry on weekends and holidays so that certain key people can come to the office and finish their work on these days. The door access system can be programmed to have more than one method of authentication. You can program to include a combination of PIN, card, finger, and face recognition to improve the security of your office. By combining these features, you can create a comprehensive access control solution that will meet all your security needs.