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Airport-specific access control ­system

In recent years airports have seen increased threat from potential terrorism, which has caused airports to heighten security and take every step to protect passengers, staff and assets.

For the airport, the greatest risk is posed by people, so airport staff need to be vigilant at all times, meaning airport security personnel need to be able to visually verify staff around the airport.

AC2000 Airport is an airport specific access control system an aviation-specific access control and security management system that is used by airports around the world, including over 80% of UK airports. It manages access throughout the airport and prevents unauthorised access to secure areas. It controls the flow of passengers, temporary cardholders and baggage through access points inside the airport and provides command and control for airport security, law enforcement and airport management personnel.

AC2000 VIPPS (Visual Imaging Pass Production) application allows security personnel to produce permanent and temporary badges to manage the flow of staff and site visitors.

Check-In Desk enabling application allows CEM card readers to be used to enable/ disable shared check-in desks or luggage carousels. This provides a report on check-in desk usage and the airlines which have used them. This report can then be sent to the finance system and used to invoice the appropriate airlines.

Air-bridge monitoring is another useful tool for airports. Card readers installed at each air-bridge ensure that only authorised and trained personnel can operate them. A valid card and/or PIN must be presented before activation. Similar to Check-In Desk enabling, the system provides data which can be reported on and used to charge airlines appropriately for their usage.

CEM card readers offer multiple layers of security throughout airports, controlling airside and landside boundaries, gates, air traffic control towers and associated remote airport buildings. With an internal database, CEM card readers can validate cards off-line validation and ensure 24/7 access to key areas with zero downtime.

Emerald is CEM’s touch screen card reader. It brings AC2000 Airport intelligence directly to the edge. A reader and controller in one, with integrated Voice over IP (VoIP) intercom, emerald provides secure access to key AC2000 Airport system functionality through a range of applications directly at the door.

The S610 range of intelligent card readers provide card access with additional PIN security and an LCD display where messages such as Access Denied and Card Expiring are easily displayed. This prevents operational delays as ID cardholders can quickly communicate reasons for denied entry to the airport ID unit. The S610f fingerprint reader allows for triple authentication using PIN, card and fingerprint.

AC2000 Rolling Transaction Display (RTD) allows security staff to visually identify cardholders prior to their gaining access through a secure door. Also for roaming security throughout the airport, the CEM S3030 portable reader provides security personnel with a lightweight handheld card reading device which has an advanced display to provide images of cardholders for visual verification.

AC2000 Airport is a flexible, customisable solution which provides high levels of integration with third-party systems including video, intrusion and fire. Another airport specific feature is Airport Door Modes which include Passenger, Interlock and Lobby Mode. These door modes enable airports to efficiently control the flow of passenger traffic

The AC2000 Airport access control system supports unlimited cardholders and doors and features unlimited expansion capabilities.

Best practice for airport security depends on each specific airport’s local and international regulations and requirements. What is possible, what is allowed and what is best practice regarding airport security will differ greatly for each airport. That is why it is important for airports to install an access control and security management system that has the flexibility to adapt or be customised to meet their unique security requirements. AC2000 Airport offers airports the flexibility to change and evolve their security system as airport legislation changes over time in response to various threats.

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