Access Control Software

[Tal56]

Hi guys,

I'm not sure of EventGhost has a plugin for this or if I'm looking for something completely different, in which case maybe someone can suggest something.

I'm looking for Access control software for a windows PC, that basically opens a Electric Strike Lock when access is granted. I've found several hardware solutions for the electronics I need, but was hoping for some good software to manage the users. Something simple and free would be great, but I don't mind paying for something if it's what I need.

Thanks for the help guys.

[krambriw]

I'm not aware of such a plugin for EG

Since I'm working with security systems including access control, I know most suppliers of "small" access control systems today provide the sw for free included in the kit or for download, it's normally only for larger systems you would have to pay a license (I guess we are talking about a couple of doors and a few card holders/users?)

Making your own sw sounds simple (only receiving some card data and match with a PIN) but trust me, Access Control sw is very complex with all the business rules, especially when the system gets bigger so I would seek to buy a package that includes the software for free
(with life time maintenance guaranteed)

You should have plenty of suppliers available around but it depends where you are

Best regards

[Tal56]

Thanks for the quick reply, that is exactly what I'm looking for. Part of a home automation hobby type thing, control the garage door, some electric strike locks etc.

I'm not much of a programmer unfortunately, but I am fairly well versed in HTML and php/mysql as I use it for work, however am not sure how to interface web apps with other windows programs, such as getting a exe or bat file to launch etc.

I have looked into some packages but most seem to have a lot more than what I need and is fairly expensive, even if the software comes free with it. Can you suggest any, I'm in Canada.

Thanks

[krambriw]

One leading Access Control company in Canada is Kantech (Tyco). The links below leads you to product information but I think sales normally goes via dealers/installers. The companies should be able to provide such information as where to buy locally etc

I do not know if the SiPass Single Door Products are available in your region but they would represent a convenient alternative (I believe some of them are wireless too but then more expensive I think)

Best regards, Walter

http://www.kantech.com/products/kits_starter.aspx

http://www.buildingtechnologies.siemens ... ducts.aspx

[back_ache]

If you do want to continue with the fun of the DIY route, this article is by someone who did it with a cheap low-power embedded computer called an arduino

http://www.instructables.com/id/Arduino-RFID-Door-Lock/

[Tal56]

Funny I read that article while searching for ideas too, it's great, especially the electronics part which is what I'm looking for as a DIYer. I love the Arduino and I think it has it's place but for the access control I would prefer a PC as there is more flexibility for software features imo. I was really hoping to find something open source with a great community behind it such as EventGhost.

[back_ache]

Using the information in the article (and articles like it) you may be able to hack something together in eventghost but I don't think it would be very expandable or very pretty but basically you could prove the concept.

As I understand it the chip squirts out an RFID's unique id down the serial line when someone swipes it.

If the id is one you are happy with you need to close a relay for a few seconds perhaps by using a USB relay board

As I understand it those actions should be well within eventghosts ability's.

Once you have proved the concept, it would be then time to look at developing a nice database powered open source solution to do it, I suggest the name "Open Door"