New Products

Jun 1, 1997 12:00 PM, >By Staff

RF system has 500-foot range

Radio Reader, a proximity system with Wiegand output, allows long-range access control to be added to new or existing systems. Cards communicate with readers via radio frequency and can be used to open gates, doors and barrier arms from up to 500 feet away, according to the manufacturer, Linear Corp.,Carlsbad, Calif.

The cards, encoded with facility and user ID codes, are offered in hand-held and keychain styles that work without removal from pocket or purse. In parking applications, they can be used from within a vehicle, without rolling down windows or coming to a stop. On two-channel models, the second channel can be programmed to act as a panic button.

The 500-foot range is achieved by a superheterodyne receiver and a pulse position modulation format that produces high transmission peak power, according to Linear.

A local whip antenna is standard; options include directional or omnidirectional remote antennas. Maximum radio range can be controlled with a gain control integral to the reader. A two-color LED acts as a status display. It lights red when the receiver is getting DC power from the system controller and turns green when access is granted. A separate LED lights when the receiver detects a transmission, which is useful for troubleshooting.

Radio Reader uses standard 26-bit Wiegand data protocols, and Linear cards are added to system software in the same manner as swipe or other proximity cards.

An access control software package gives the option of using Windows 3.11 or Windows 95 operating systems and provides a graphic user interface, which minimizes training needs and incorporates on-line help, according to the maker. At the heart of the AMAG 350 system from American Magnetics Corp., Carson, Calif., is the Microsoft Access Database, which provides system management and reporting capabilities. The software is for single-user applications of up to 128 readers and can be connected to microNODE or multiNODE 34xx. It can also be used with Series 600 Magstripe readers when connected via multiNODE-2 controllers. System options include integrated video imaging with ID badge printing and the ability to encode magstripe cards with either microMAX or custom formats.

An equipment protection system detects lightning when it is typically 1-2 miles away. Manufactured by Rabun Labs Inc., Plant City, Fla., the Rabun Labs System operates automatically to protect equipment when lightning reaches the intensity likely to cause damage. The device will switch equipment to a standby generator or to UPS operation; disconnect/isolate circuits providing power to AC outlets where selected non-critical but sensitive electronic equipment is plugged in; disconnect/isolate/ground remote-located equipment such as card readers and CCTV cameras; and shunt telephone and intercom line to ground for approximately 5 seconds. All functions will be returned to normal after the threat has passed.

A lock-down device secures laptop computers from theft. The Lock-Down Station from Securityware, San Diego, uses a steel case no bigger than a 14-inch monitor to prevent movement of laptops. An option is available to secure a monitor or other peripherals to the lock-down station. A base plate bonds to a work surface, a steel cover is bolted to the base plate, and a removable steel door locks into the cover to prevent access to the notebook computer.

An intercom master control station has been designed for door control communications in jails and prisons and as a building submaster in campus, parking and building security systems. The 92011 Master Control Station from Stentofon Communications Inc., Kansas City, Mo., has an all-metal, rack-mount housing and is capable of handling calls from up to 12 substations. It can operate independently or in parallel with other 9200 series and P9600 master stations.

The Cnet/2 integrated access control system has an improved user interface that uses integrated floor plans to provide users with a consistent, easy method to customize their system, according to the manufacturer, Computrol Security Systems, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. An Action Plan module has been added to configure global system actions with system-prompted statements. An updated photo badging interface and remote dial-up capabilities have also been added.

A Windows-based software program allows businesses to accurately track employee time and generate workforce status reports. Called Unitime for Windows and manufactured by Unitime Systems Inc., Boulder, Colo., the program works with automated time clocks, including a new biometric fingerprint from Accutime Systems Inc., Ellington, Conn. Users can customize the system's standard reports or create their own reports. The program integrates with human resource and payroll software, eliminating duplicate data entry.

Speakers come in three styles for high-fidelity applications. The Signature Series Speakers from Valcom, Roanoke, Va., are available as a monitor speaker, in-wall speaker or ceiling speaker. All have a wide frequency response for music or voice communication, according to Valcom. The monitor speaker has a slim design and can be wall-mounted.

Vertical racks have front and rear rack rails that adjust front-to-back to accommodate electronics of any depth, according to the manufacturer, Winsted Corp., Minneapolis. The VRx series are all-welded units 86 inches high by 24 inches wide by 30 inches deep. The top and the bottom are open for cable management and venting. Other features: independent lift-off side panels, large corner uprights, conduit knock-outs top and bottom, two grounding lugs and mounting holes on top for eye-bolts.

PC terminal blocks CTB1000 and CTB5000 are rated at 16a/250v and will accept 12-14awg wire. Manufactured by Camden Electronics, St. Albans, U.K., and distributed in North America by EuroComp, Huntington Beach, Calif., the terminal blocks are available in 5mm, 10mm and 0.2-inch pitch and are certified by international approvals, including UL, CSA and VDE.>CN

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