Axis Releases Its First Access Control Device

CHICAGO — Network camera provider Axis Communications has entered the physical access control market with the introduction of the AXIS A1001 network door controller, the company announced Tuesday at ASIS 2013.

The company is marketing the product as the first non-proprietary and open IP-based access controller on the market. The AXIS A1001 features open architecture for integration of video, intrusion detection and other systems. It supports most existing reader protocols and reader types, and standard IT and security equipment such as door locks and door position sensors.

The controller is a platform for two different solutions. AXIS Entry Manager (AXIS A1001 with built-in software) is a ready-made solution for small- to mid-sized businesses with 10 doors and basic access control requirements. For larger enterprise systems, AXIS A1001’s open application programming interface enables Axis’ application development partners (ADP) to meet specific customer requirements.

Axis ADP partners include Aimetis, Genetec, IMRON, Milestone Systems, Next Level Security Systems and OnSSI. The companies are currently developing solutions that include video integration and advanced access control, according to a company release.

“Bringing product innovation to the physical access control market is a natural step in Axis’ development as there is a strong connection between access control and video surveillance,” Axis President and CEO Ray Mauritsson says. “Axis plays an important role in driving convergence to IP-based products in video surveillance. We now apply that expertise in IP technology to the physical access control market in the same way. The physical access control market is primed to make the shift to open IP technology.”

Because the United States was an early adopter of network video technology and is a huge market for physical access control, Axis will launch the product in the U.S. during the fourth quarter of 2013. In 2012, analysts estimated the value of the global physical access control market at $3 billion. The market is expected to reach $4.2 billion by 2017, according to research firm IHS.

Although Axis is venturing into the access control market, its focus will continue to be on network video products.

“We expect physical access control sales to represent a small, but important, part of our total business,” Mauritsson says.

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