In addition, the system should be flexible for the user. From an operations perspective, a Web-based configuration, including a Web browser interface, makes using the system easy by allowing your customers to tailor it to meet their needs.
Plan for Future Growth
For single-door access control applications, the small footprint of a plastic enclosure offers an alternative to traditional systems that frequently reside in a storage room. The units can be mounted in more convenient locations, such as at the door they are securing.
The Web-based system described above can serve as an entry-level access control solution, but it's also scalable and flexible enough to grow with a customer's business and easily accommodate the addition of more doors. For example, offer a system that allows customers to add a door with simple installation. Look for systems that have add-on boards that you can mount directly on top of a control panel via a board-to-board connector, which means they don't require extra wires or cables to connect.
With this approach, expansion is simpler. When a customer wants to add a door, you won't need to rewire the system and change out the enclosure - you'll simply add on to what the customer already has in place.
A scalable and flexible system that accommodates growth is also cost-effective. Dealers need to set their customers up with an option they won't outgrow. In the end, this helps grow business on your end, as well - a win-win for everyone involved.
Rick Anderson is Product Manager for Honeywell Access Systems. He can be contacted at [email protected].