Access Control Basics

Tests fundamental knowledge that even a junior person involved in electronic access control should know.

What is the purpose of the Door Controller?

1. To send signals to the reader, unlocking the door.
1. To coordinate all inputs and outputs connected to the door with the access system.
1. To receive signals from the reader and then decide whether to read the credential or not.
1. To close the door after it has been opened.
1. None of the above.

2 Which option below is NOT an example of an access credential?*

1. An RFID chip
1. A brass key
1. A code number
1. A cellphone
1. A windshield iClass token

What is the purpose of a Reader?

1. To receive credential inputs and send that information to the Door Controller.
1. To unlock the door if a verified credential is presented.
1. To translate credential data into weigand data for the Door Controller.
1. To store which credentials are currently valid and make decisions to call the Door Controller only if credentials are good.
1. To power to door locks (eg: electric strikes) when a bad card is read, locking the door.

4 Which option below IS a primary function of Access Management Software?*

1. Sending all information to the Video Management System.
1. Acting as health monitor for all controllers and locks securing the doors.
1. To make sure only valid credential holders are issued credentials.
1. Immediately reporting when someone tries to break in.
1. To keep a log of door activity, and storing that information so it can be recalled at a later date.

Which option below best describes how a maglock operates?

1. A door-mounted armature is bonded to the magnet when current flows, keeping the door shut.
1. A door-mounted magnet is bonded to the armature when current flows, keeping the door shut.
1. A lock that firmly bonds the door shut until electricity reverses the polarity of the magnet, pushing the lock away.
1. It depends on whether the maglock is fail-safe or fail-secure.

6 How does a proximity-type credential work?*

1. The reader turns on a 3.3 VDC nano battery inside the card to transmit information.
1. The credential collects power wirelessly emitted by the reader to power credential data transmission.
1. The field emitted by the reader is precisely interfered with by a card, and that specific resistance value is detected by the reader with is tied to an ID number.
1. The reader contains copper, and the reader contains aluminum. When the copper and aluminum come in close proximity, it generates an electrical charge to transmit data.

Almost every mechanical lock can be converted for use in access control by using a solenoid retrofit kit.

1. True
1. False

Because of the 100 meter limitation of ethernet links, which device below is best to increase communication distance to far doors or gates 3 miles away or greater?

1. Analog Converter
1. Microwave Wireless Tranciever
1. Multiple switches in series
1. Stand alone controllers only
1. Use a media converter that translates copper to fiber and back.

9 Which option below best describes the term "Fail Safe" as it applies to locks?*

1. The door automatically locks when power drops, keeping occupants 'safe' from outside danger.
1. When the lock looses power, it automatically unlocks, ensuring occupants can exit in an emergency.
1. When power drops, the lock has built-in backup power to ensure normal, safe operation.
1. None of the above.

What is the name of the feature that detects whether or not the door is locked?

1. Door Strike
1. Door Position Switch
1. Latch Bolt Monitor or Bond Sensor
1. Door Alarm Contact

11 What scenario below describes the risk of 'Tailgating'?*

1. More than one person hurriedly passing through an open door opened by a single credential read.
1. Not checking behind you before entering a code on a keypad, and having a snoop steal it.
1. Handing off your credential for someone else to use (typically under a door) after you have already gained access with it.
1. Taligating happens when you read 'OUT' before you read 'IN' to the system, creating a logic problem with the system.
1. Tying a chain to the tailgate of a pickup truck and tearing down the door.

How does an IP Door Controller get it's power?

1. From a linear power supply, or a PoE switch if it is supported.
1. Typically from the reader.
1. Door controllers are simple logic devices that need no power.
1. From a nearby 110VAC or 220VAC wall plug.

Modern readers are typically backward compatible with all credentials made since November 2001.

1. True
1. False