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On track with access control

The new multi-storey premises being constructed for a major transportation company in Midrand required a reliable access control system for the 100 employees as well as visitors. ViRDI biometric fingerprint technology distributor PinnSec, a division of Pinnacle Africa, was asked by infrastructure providers, Wires and Wireless, to supply a number of ViRDI readers as well as UNIS software.

Wires and Wireless has a proven track record of installing biometric and CCTV solutions with excellent technical support and installation teams. Deon van Rensburg, ViRDI Distribution’s product manager for Africa said: “Due to the long standing relationship between Pinnacle and Wires and Wireless, as well as their relationship with the end user, they were able to assist the client with the most cost-effective solution to directly address the requirements.”

The access control system at the facilities includes anti-passback, time and attendance (T&A) with future integration into a payroll system as part of the requirements. The client also requested multi-user management and remote management, as well as integration with the fire detection system.

PinnSec’s involvement comprised assistance with the design, implementation and supply of the hardware. The company chose a combination of 28 Virdi 2500RF, Virdi 4000RF and Virdi FOH02RF biometric fingerprint readers as well as ViRDI Unis software, developed by Trac-Tech in Cape Town.

Unis access control fingerprint management software allows users to maximise the functionality of their access control hardware. The software has a number of value added management features and provides real-time storage of a user’s fingerprints in conjunction with a clocking device. An optional time and attendance (T&A) module is available as a USB dongle.

“This installation forms part of the greater scope of access control requirements for this specific client and can be seen as a pilot site for a potential national implementation,” said Van Rensburg.

The PinnSec team faced the normal challenges posed during the construction of a new building. “The access control installation and implementation were subject to the progress of the building contractor. Flexibility and project planning were needed to ensure that the target dates for commissioning and handover were met. Due to the sensitivity level of access control needed as well as interaction with other systems and sites, a high level of human interaction was needed to ensure a smooth conclusion to the project,” Van Rensburg pointed out.

The installer, end user and support teams were given extensive training on the Virdi products in general and the installed products specifically. “The target date for implementation and occupation of the premises was 20 June 2013 and PinnSec was part of the project throughout its duration. They will also provide second-line support to the installer,” said Van Rensburg.

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