What Happens to Door Access Control When Power Goes Off?
What Happens to Door Access Control When Power Goes Off? In today’s modern world, door access control systems have become integral for securing offices, apartments, and other high-security buildings.
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These systems ensure that only authorized personnel can gain entry to specific areas. But a common concern that arises is: what happens when the power goes out? Does the building become vulnerable? Can you still enter or exit? This blog will explain in detail what occurs during a power outage and answer common questions related to door access control systems.
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Boardtac solutions door access control systems come with a backup power battery. This feature ensures that the door can continue to operate even during a power outage. The backup battery typically provides power for the system, allowing users to enter or exit without interruption.
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The duration of backup power depends on the battery capacity and the system’s power consumption. It’s a critical feature in systems used in high-security areas where uninterrupted access control is important. Regular maintenance of the battery is necessary to ensure it functions when needed.
Introduction to Door Access Control Systems
Door access control systems use technology to manage who can enter or exit a building. They work by authenticating a user’s credentials, such as a keycard, fingerprint, or PIN.
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Once authenticated, the system sends a signal to unlock the door. These systems are usually powered by electricity to function properly, which raises the question: what happens when the power goes off?
What Happens When Power Goes Off?
1. Doors Lock or Unlock Based on System Configuration
Depending on how the door access control system is configured, it can either:
Fail-Safe Mode: The doors unlock automatically when power is lost. This configuration is typically used for doors that need to remain accessible in emergencies, like fire exits.
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Fail-Secure Mode: The doors remain locked when the power goes out, ensuring that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access. This is often the default mode for high-security areas.
2. Emergency Features in Door Access Control Systems
Modern systems are built with several fail-safes to ensure security and safety during power failures:
Emergency Power-Off (EPO): In some critical environments, systems come with EPOs, allowing personnel to cut off the entire system during emergencies like fire outbreaks, which can force doors to unlock for safe evacuation.
Battery Backups: Many systems are equipped with battery backups that automatically kick in when the main power supply fails, allowing the door control system to continue functioning for a limited period.
Battery Backup Solutions
1. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
A UPS can be installed with your access control system to maintain power temporarily, ensuring that the system continues running. The duration depends on the capacity of the battery and the load it is supporting. On average, a UPS can power a system for up to 4–12 hours, depending on its configuration.
2. Generators
For buildings that require continuous operation, especially in critical infrastructures like hospitals, standby generators can be employed. These generators can power the entire access control system indefinitely, provided that there’s enough fuel supply.
3. Redundant Power Supply
Some businesses opt for dual power supplies (redundant power supplies), ensuring that if the main power source fails, a secondary power supply takes over seamlessly without any system interruption.
FAQs About Door Access Control Systems During Power Outages
1. Can you open an electronic door during a power outage?
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Yes, but it depends on how the system is configured:
Fail-Safe systems unlock during a power outage, allowing free access.
Fail-Secure systems remain locked during power outages, which means that access will be restricted.
2. Will the access control system lose data during a power failure?
No, modern access control systems are designed to retain data even during a power outage. The system’s database, which includes user credentials and logs, is usually stored on a local or cloud-based server, ensuring that no information is lost.
3. How long will battery backups last during a power outage?
The duration depends on the battery’s capacity. Most battery backups provide power for 4–12 hours. In critical environments, larger battery banks or alternative power sources like generators can be used for longer periods.
4. Is there a way to unlock doors manually during a power outage?
Yes, there are manual override features in many access control systems. These can include:
Mechanical keys: Doors equipped with key slots can be opened manually if electronic systems fail.
Emergency exit push bars: These allow occupants to exit quickly in case of an emergency.
Best Practices for Ensuring Continuity in Door Access Control
1. Invest in a Reliable UPS or Backup Generator
It is crucial to invest in a reliable UPS or generator to ensure your access control system stays functional for extended periods during a power outage.
2. Regular Maintenance of Backup Systems
Ensure that your battery backups and generators are well-maintained. Conduct routine checks and tests to verify that they can supply the required power during emergencies.
3. Use Fail-Safe Configurations in Key Areas
For areas like fire exits or emergency doors, consider using fail-safe mechanisms to ensure the doors unlock in the event of a power failure, allowing people to evacuate safely.
4. Monitor Battery Life
Keep an eye on the life of your system’s battery backup and replace them periodically to avoid a situation where the batteries fail during a crucial time.
Conclusion
While door access control systems depend on electricity, their designers have considered the potential risks of power failures. From fail-safe and fail-secure modes to battery backups and manual overrides, several options can ensure your building remains secure and functional during outages. The key is to understand how your specific system works and to invest in backup power options like UPS systems or generators.
By understanding these features, you can ensure the continued safety and security of your premises, even in the event of a power failure. Implementing the right precautions will allow your access control system to function optimally no matter the circumstances.
Ready to enhance the security of your property with state-of-the-art fingerprint door lock solutions and employees time attendance system? Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation or inquire about our biometrics attendance systems. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to assist you every step of the way.
