124 Questions
What is a common factor in defining security entrance requirements for community associations?
Tracking of vehicles allowed onsite
What is the primary consideration when evaluating vehicle access systems for a community association?
Protection level and ease of operation
What is the main purpose of a vehicle access control system in a community association?
To enhance security and control access to the community
How many categories of vehicle access systems are available for community associations?
4
What is an example of an automated vehicle access control system?
Automated license plate reader (ALPR) system
What determines the type of access control device chosen for a community association?
Who is going to use the device and the type of access point
What is a consideration when evaluating the effectiveness of a vehicle access control system?
Initial and continuing cost of ownership against overall system performance
What is the ultimate goal of implementing a vehicle access control system in a community association?
To satisfy the collective level of comfort and security expectations of the community
What are the three main areas that vehicular access control encompasses?
Resident Entrance Lanes, Guest Entrance Lanes, and Exit Lane(s)
What is the preferred access control method for processing vehicular traffic?
Passive read technology that eliminates the need for user input
Which technology is often used in vehicular access control systems due to its familiarity?
Radio Receiver/Transmitter System
What is a disadvantage of using transmitters that use dipswitches to set the frequency?
They are impossible to control
What is an advantage of using barcode scanner systems?
Barcode labels are not easily transferred between vehicles
What is a consideration when evaluating the cost of an access control system?
The cost of the access control devices required in addition to the initial hardware installation
How many devices are typically required for a community with 100 homes/units?
200-300 devices
What is unique about the barcode labels used in access control systems?
They are made of reflective material similar to license plate stickers.
What is a limitation of radio receiver/transmitter systems?
Transmitters can be lost, stolen, or broken
What is the typical height range for barcode scanners to read a vehicle?
Two to seven feet above the road grade
What is a common failure of the barcode system?
The window that the barcode label is attached to is down.
What is a benefit of using radio frequency transponders?
The read capability is not affected by dirt and harsh weather environments.
What is the effective read range of a barcode scanner?
Six feet from the scanner
What is a disadvantage of non-deactivate on removal transponders?
They can be transferred from one vehicle to another.
How do deactivate on removal transponders prevent unauthorized use?
They deactivate when removed from the windshield.
What is a limitation of using License Plate Recognition (LPR) systems?
They can be affected by metallic windshields.
What is the purpose of the processor in an LPR system?
To analyze the image to determine which one has the clearest view of the license.
How do LPR systems increase read accuracy?
By comparing the license plate number read against the license plate numbers in the security software database.
What type of transponders can be reactivated by the supplier at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new transponder?
Deactivate on removal transponders.
What is a disadvantage of using barcode labels?
They can be viewed as unsightly by many.
What is a key advantage of security interfacing with license plate recognition technology?
Having total security vehicle control while not introducing an additional standalone system
What is a benefit of using license plate recognition technology for community security?
It allows for seamless, user-friendly security management
What can be managed using license plate recognition technology?
Vehicles of interest, including those attached to public court orders of protection
What is a potential revenue source for communities using license plate recognition technology?
Selling access control devices to frequent guests
What is a requirement for license plate recognition technology to function?
Line of sight to the vehicle
What is an advantage of using license plate recognition technology in facilities with open vehicle access?
It can be used as a monitoring and logging tool
What is a feature of some license plate recognition systems?
Ability to search the database by partial plate numbers
What should a community association prioritize when selecting a license plate recognition system provider?
The provider's local support and comprehensive understanding of hardware and software
What can be used to reduce traffic volume in the guest entrance lanes?
Allowing long-term guests to use the resident entrance lanes
What is a potential disadvantage of license plate recognition technology?
Hardware can be expensive, depending on the provider and system
What is the primary benefit of using an ALPR system in a community association?
Significant cost savings through the elimination of vehicle triggering devices
What is the typical elapsed time for an ALPR system to capture, match, and send a command to open a gate?
200 milliseconds
What is the purpose of the 'target zone' in an ALPR system?
To trigger the plate reading sequence when a vehicle enters the zone
How do ALPR systems deal with low light or no light conditions?
They use unique near pulsed infrared illumination technology to 'read' the reflective properties of license plates
What is 'intelligent matching' in an ALPR system?
The ability to make adjustments to a plate read if part of the plate is blocked
What is the primary consideration for environmental factors in an ALPR system?
All of the above
What is the typical vehicle crossover point for an ALPR system?
300-400 vehicles
What is the purpose of the processor in an ALPR system?
To convert the visual plate image to alphanumeric text
What is the benefit of using an ALPR system in a gated community environment?
The ability to match a license plate to a predetermined list of authorized vehicles
What is a key component of an ALPR system?
A data administration networking package
What is an additional benefit of implementing a vehicle access control system in a community?
Improved traffic flow at the gate locations
What is the recommended access control system for unmanned gate locations?
Visitor telephone entry system
What is the primary function of a visitor telephone entry system?
To grant access to authorized guests
What is a consideration when using visitor telephone entry systems?
Sufficient stacking area for vehicles
What is the main advantage of using computers and security software over traditional pen and paper methods?
Faster and more efficient way to authorize and record guest information
What is a potential benefit of controlling vehicles exiting from the community?
Improved level of security provided to the community
What is the purpose of a turnaround area in a visitor telephone entry system?
To allow vehicles to exit the community without having to back up
What is the typical directory format in a visitor telephone entry system?
Last name and first initial
What is the primary concern when implementing a visitor telephone entry system in busy gate locations?
Time-consuming process
What is a benefit of using security software to generate reports?
To generate reports of vehicles in the community at any given time
What is the primary purpose of a vehicular gate system in a community?
To allow emergency vehicles access to the community without hindrance
What is the function of a click-2-enter system in emergency vehicle access?
It enables emergency vehicles to open the gate using a special radio receiver
What occurs when a power failure occurs and a battery powered convenience open system is employed?
The system immediately commands the gate to open and remain open
What is the purpose of a siren sensor in emergency vehicle access?
To detect the 'yelp' mode from an emergency vehicle's siren
What is the function of a lock box in emergency vehicle access?
To automatically command the gate to open when the lock box is opened
What should community leaders consider when determining the method of entry for emergency vehicles?
The regional building department's preferences
What is the purpose of a strobe light sensor in emergency vehicle access?
To detect the flashing strobe light from an emergency vehicle
What is the function of a wireless transmitter in emergency vehicle access?
To open the gate from a distance of 75 to 100 feet
What is the purpose of a special key and key switch in emergency vehicle access?
To allow emergency vehicles to access the community using a special key
How many different situations must an emergency access system be able to allow entry through the vehicular gate?
Three
What is the primary function of a safety loop in a vehicle detector system?
To hold the gate open when the loop sensor detects the presence of a vehicle.
What is the main purpose of installing a barrier gate in front of a swing or slide gate?
To prevent tailgating by unauthorized vehicles.
What is the purpose of a secondary entrapment prevention device in a gate system?
To prevent entrapment hazards in areas where they exist.
What is a common characteristic of swing gates?
They are designed to not create an entrapment area.
What is a critical factor in the placement of loop sensors in a vehicle detector system?
The critical placement of the loop sensors for proper operation.
What is the primary consideration when selecting a gate operator for a community association?
The safety standards of the gate operator.
What is a potential hazard of slide gates?
The potential pinch point between the gate and the support column.
What is the purpose of warning signs in a gate system?
To provide a visible warning in areas where an entrapment hazard exists.
What type of gate is recommended for high traffic areas?
Barrier gates
What is the purpose of guarding pinch points in a gate system?
To prevent entrapment hazards.
What is the purpose of vehicle detectors and sensors in vehicular gates?
To detect and allow authorized vehicles to pass.
What is the purpose of a close loop in a vehicle detector system?
To send a 'close' signal to the gate once the presence of a vehicle is no longer detected.
What is a characteristic of high-speed highway toll road style barrier gates?
They open and close in less than one second.
Why is it important to ensure that the gate operator has been tested by an independent third-party laboratory?
To ensure compliance with industry safety standards.
What is a consideration when installing slide gates?
The need for a pocket to retract into.
What is a benefit of using barrier gates in manned gate locations?
They are more secure than other gate types.
What is the primary limitation of using keys for community-wide access control?
They are difficult to track and maintain
What is the purpose of openings in slide gate systems being guarded or screened?
To prevent a 2.25-inch diameter sphere from passing through the openings.
What is a common challenge of using keypads for community access control?
The code can be shared with unauthorized people
What is a common feature of slide gates?
They have smooth bottom edges.
What is a limitation of slide gates?
They can interfere with sidewalk routing or other obstacles.
What is a unique advantage of using biometric authentication for community access control?
It is based on an intrinsic part of a human being
What is a characteristic of slide gate backtrack areas?
They can interfere with sidewalk routing or other obstacles.
Why are access cards not recommended for use in vehicle access control systems?
They can be easily passed from person to person
What is a benefit of using photo IDs for community access control?
Staff can verify that the user of the card is the actual owner of the card
What is the most common type of vehicular gate used in community associations?
Swing gates
What is a limitation of using biometric authentication for community access control?
It requires a significant amount of training to use
What is the primary advantage of using access cards for community access control?
Each card can have its own identity, allowing management to assign cards to specific people
What is a consideration when selecting a vehicular gate for a community association?
All of the above
What is the primary purpose of a community's security software?
To track keys for home/units within the association
What is the primary benefit of a battery-powered convenience open system in a vehicular gate operator?
To ensure that the gate can be opened even during power outages
How often should maintenance personnel and community managers check the battery-powered systems to ensure they are functioning properly?
Monthly
What is the typical lifespan of batteries in a battery-powered convenience open system?
2 years
What is the fail-safe mode of a vehicular gate operator in the event of a power failure and battery failure?
The gate will default to a manual open mode
Why is it important to include a fail-safe mode in the design of a vehicular gate access system?
To allow emergency vehicles to access the community during power outages
What should a community association consider when choosing a company to install an automated gate system?
All of the above
Why is it important to perform a credit check on the company chosen to install an automated gate system?
To ensure the company is financially viable and has a history of paying for their equipment
What is the first impression that many visitors will have of the community?
The automated gate system
Why is it important to consider the design of the vehicular gate access system?
To ensure that the gate can be accessed by emergency vehicles during power outages
What is the primary goal of an automated gate system in a community?
To provide a means for emergency vehicles to access the community during power outages
What type of cable is designed for high signal integrity and used in networking applications?
CAT5 cable
What is the primary function of a controller in an access control system?
To make the access control decision
What is the purpose of an Infrared illuminator?
To work as a light source in the infrared frequency range
What is the main purpose of a DVR (Digital Video Recorder)?
To transform analog video signals into digital format
What is the benefit of using fiber optic cables?
They are less susceptible to noise and interference
What is the purpose of an IP 66 rating?
To classify different types of housing according to their degree of protection
What is a Mesh network?
A decentralized and simplified network created through wireless access points
What is the purpose of a motion detector?
To detect motion on security cameras
What is the primary benefit of using ALPR (Automated License Plate Reader) technology?
It can improve the security of a community association
What is the primary function of a multiplexer in a surveillance system?
To provide full-screen images from up to 16 analog cameras
What is the purpose of an ALPR system's processor?
To manage stored video files and provide motion detection settings
What is the purpose of a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL)?
To recognize private sector organizations for meeting necessary safety qualifications
What type of camera allows for remote adjustment of position and focus?
PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) camera
What is the purpose of a stellar cable?
To detect intruders on a fence or wall
What is the primary function of point-to-point networks?
To send infrared beams between two points
What is an OEM in the context of security systems?
A company that acquires a product or component and reuses or incorporates it into a new product with its own brand name
Study Notes
Vehicular Access Control Systems
- Many community associations face issues of vehicle security and access control, and there are various factors to consider when defining security entrance requirements.
- These factors include automated or attendant operation, gates, administration, tracking of vehicles, and the timely accessing of information.
Types of Vehicle Access Control Systems
- There are four categories of vehicle access control systems:
- Attended systems
- Automated (unattended) systems
- Open access systems
- Combination of these three systems
Key Areas of Vehicular Access Control
- Vehicular access control encompasses three main areas:
- Resident entrance lanes
- Guest entrance lanes
- Exit lanes
Resident Entrance Lanes
- The preferred access control method for processing vehicular traffic incorporates a passive read technology.
- This technology eliminates the need for user input, and the advantages include:
- Faster processing of authorized vehicles
- No need for users to stop or roll down their windows
- Cost-effective
Available Technologies
- There are several available technologies for vehicular access control, including:
- Radio receiver/transmitter systems
- Barcode scanner systems
- Radio frequency (RF) transponders
- License plate recognition (LPR) systems
Radio Receiver/Transmitter Systems
- Advantages:
- Ability to read without line of sight
- Not affected by dirt and harsh weather
- Familiar technology
- Disadvantages:
- Transmitters can be transferred from one vehicle to another
- Long transmission range allows unauthorized vehicles to steal the signal
- Transmitters can be lost, stolen, or broken
- Cost of issuing transmitters
Barcode Scanner Systems
- Advantages:
- Barcode labels are not easily transferred from one vehicle to another
- Labels are made of reflective material
- Labels can be visually verified by guard staff
- Inexpensive
- Disadvantages:
- Line of sight required from reader to device
- Snow, ice, or heavy dew may obscure the barcode
- Window must be rolled down for barcode to be read
Radio Frequency (RF) Transponders
- Advantages:
- No line of sight required
- Read capability not affected by dirt and harsh weather
- Deactivate on removal transponders can't be passed from vehicle to vehicle
- Disadvantages:
- Metallic windshields can interfere with signal
- Possible signal interference from multiple transponders
- Non-deactivate on removal transponders can be transferred from one vehicle to another
- Cost of issuing transponders
License Plate Recognition (LPR) Systems
- Advantages:
- No special devices required
- Offers ability to gather information from all vehicles
- Can manage vehicles of interest
- Can track and manage the length of time a vehicle is allowed in the community
- Can generate alarms when a vehicle exceeds its time limit
- Disadvantages:
- Hardware can be expensive
- Line of sight device—license plate must be visible to the camera
Guest/Visitor Entrance Lanes
- The type of guest/visitor lane access control system depends on whether the gate location is manned or unmanned.
- Manned gate locations:
- Use security software to authorize and record guest information
- Faster and more efficient than traditional methods
- Unmanned gate locations:
- Use visitor telephone entry systems
- Provide a means for guests to gain access into the community### Telephone Entry Systems
- Used to grant access to guests in gated communities
- Resident answers phone call and decides to grant or deny access
- If granted, resident uses home phone to send a signal to open the gate
- Requires a suitable turnaround area for vehicles to exit the community
- Not recommended for busy gate locations due to time-consuming process
Exit Lanes
- Most gated communities do not control exiting vehicles
- Adding access control to exit lanes can double the system's cost and labor requirements
- Controlling exit lanes can increase security and provide reports on vehicles in the community
Pedestrian Access Control
- Tools used to control pedestrian access:
- Keys: limited to single doors and not recommended for community-wide access
- Keypads: electronic devices with preprogrammed codes, but can be challenging to control
- Access Cards: various types, including magnetic swipe, barcode, and proximity, ideal for resident access
- Photo IDs: ideal for situations with community management staff or security department spot checks
- Biometrics: automated methods of recognizing individuals, but not commonly used in gated communities due to cost, training, and maintenance issues
Automated Vehicular Gate Systems
- Types of gates:
- Swing Gates: most common, attractive, but expensive to maintain
- Slide Gates: preferred method of installation, cheaper to maintain, but require more physical space
- Barrier Gates: most common for manned gate locations, not recommended for unmanned gates
- Important considerations:
- Vehicle detectors and sensors
- Tailgating: when a vehicle follows an authorized vehicle into the community
- Safety considerations: ensuring a safe gate operating system
Safety Considerations
- Industry safety standards
- Safety devices and gate construction criteria:
- Secondary entrapment prevention devices
- Warning signs
- Gate controls
- Gate operator
- Rollers and pinch points
- Importance of compliant installation and testing
Emergency Access
- Methods for emergency vehicles to access the community:
- Click-2-enter system
- Special keys and key switches
- Lock boxes
- Siren sensors
- Strobe light sensors
- Wireless transmitters
- Three situations:
- Normal operation: devices integrated with the vehicular gate system
- Power failure with battery powered convenience open system: redundant drive system
- Power failure and battery powered system failure: fail-safe mode, allowing manual gate opening### Choosing an Installer for Automated Gate Systems
- It is crucial to select an experienced installer with a strong background in installing and servicing automated gate systems to ensure the system's longevity.
- The installer should be able to provide a list of similar installations covering at least the last several years.
- Conduct a credit check on the company to ensure they have a history of paying for their equipment.
- Obtain lien releases before paying for the installation in full.
Important Terms and Definitions
- AC (Alternating Current): the form of electricity delivered to businesses and residences.
- ALPR (Automated License Plate Reader): captures or stores license plate information by converting video images to text.
- CAT5 (Category 5 cable): a twisted pair cable designed for high signal integrity, used in networking applications.
- CCTV (Closed-circuit television): the use of video cameras to transmit signals to a specific set of monitors.
- Coaxial cable: a type of wire that consists of a center wire surrounded by insulation and a grounded shield, used for television and computer networks.
- Controller: the heart of an access control system, making decisions on access control.
- DVR (Digital Video Recorder): transforms analog video signals into digital format, suitable for storage on a hard drive.
- Ethernet: a family of frame-based computer networking technologies for local area networks.
- Fiber optic cable: a cable made up of super-thin filaments of glass or other transparent materials, carrying beams of light.
- Infrared illuminator: a light source working in the infrared frequency range.
- IP 66 (Ingress Protection): a designation system used to classify different types of housing according to their degree of protection.
- MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer): a certification offered by Microsoft, proving expertise in designing and implementing business solutions.
- Mesh networks: a decentralized network created through the connection of wireless access points.
- Motion detectors: devices used to detect motion on security cameras, triggering recording or alarms.
- Multiplexer: a high-speed switch providing full-screen images from up to 16 analog cameras.
- NRTL (Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory): a US Department of Labor program that recognizes private sector organizations for meeting safety standards.
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): a company that acquires a product or component and incorporates it into a new product with its own brand name.
- Point-to-point networks: devices sending infrared beams between two points, installed in areas with direct line of sight.
- PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom): cameras allowing adjustment of position and focus using a remote controller.
- Stellar cables: a technology used on top of walls or connected to fences, with a shock sensitive cable that activates an alarm when intruders grab the fence or place their hand on the wall.
Test your knowledge of security entrance requirements and vehicle access systems for community associations. Learn about the primary considerations and types of access control systems.
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