The days of using a metal key to open a door may be ending. Using keypad access to gates, doors, and other secure areas are becoming more available to the masses. Whether you want an individual lock to your home or locks linked into a larger, more corporate security system, there are advantages and disadvantages to gaining access electronically.

Keypad Access Advantages

1. Are you always forgetting or losing your keys somewhere? What if you can gain access through a threshold with your fingerprint, eye scan, or code?
2. Keypad lock mechanisms require electrical currents to release a lock bolt after the proper code or other element is issued. No physical key is needed, unless access is granted by a body part, but hopefully that’s not easily lost.
3. Pick one set of codes for individual use or multiple levels of access for larger organizations. Depending on your needs, you can program certain keypads differently for different users. Whether for parental or managerial control, you can assign certain access to certain codes.
4. If a digit code is required, some may choose numbers they can easily remember. If forgotten, there should be an easy way to retrieve it, or the user may be locked out after several failed attempts.
5. Keypads can be integrated with larger security systems, like CCTV or Central Station Monitoring systems. This makes it easy to know what’s happening while you’re away.
6. If someone is trying to gain access, and fails at entering the correct code, you can be notified of the intrusion.
7. Access keypads remotely to automatically lock or unlock doors if needed.
8. Certain keypad systems let you know if a door has been left open for too long, or who opened it in the first place.
9. Connect your keypad to an online system or mobile device app and always know who is at your door.
10. Wireless keypad access gives greater flexibility for access outside of the home. These systems are well suited for gate access where you don’t want to run a wire the length of a driveway from a home-based power source.

Keypad Access Disadvantages

1. Between email, online accounts, apps, and other security measures, there are so many different codes and passwords to remember. We’re always told to pick a unique code for different systems in order to heighten security, but there’s only a certain level of recall humans can master. Adding another code for unlocking our doors can prove frustrating if the code is forgotten.
2. There can also be glitches in technology. Make sure fingers are clean and dry, or the fingerprint access pad may not function properly.
3. Since keypad access requires power to operate, hooking it up to a reliable power source—preferably one connected to a generator in case of an outage—is important. Some systems take batteries, but be sure you have backups.
4. Depending on the type of system you need, keypad access can be an expensive investment. The higher the security level, the more expensive it will get. Individual systems for homes may not be as expensive as multifunctional units for larger corporations, but they’re still more than a simple lock and key.
5. If any system is hooked up to another security system, like a Central Station Monitoring system, then additional service charges will apply.
6. Protect keypads from the elements and possible vandalism. You don’t want a malfunction in bad weather conditions, or have the access panel ripped off by weather or vandals. Seal and secure your system from every angle.

Deciding on whether keypad access is right for your security needs doesn’t have to be a difficult decision. Contact the Security Five specialists at 610-323-9511 with any additional questions and information on keypad access systems.

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