printer friendly version

Touchless access control for the new pandemic reality

Bosch has released version 4.8 of its Building Integration System (BIS), which offers safe, touchless access control solutions to curb the spread of viruses like COVID-19. BIS 4.8 supports biometric and mobile device authentication and provides building managers with enhanced integration of fire panels and intrusion panels.

In light of the global coronavirus pandemic, building operators need to rethink their access control solutions. Instead of systems that require physical touch and thereby increase the risk of virus transmission, contactless solutions that still meet the highest security guidelines are preferable. In response to these requirements, BIS 4.8 expands on the trusted features and benefits of version 4.7 to now work with three different touchless solutions that safeguard personal health:

• Face recognition. BIS 4.8 has been redesigned to work with the face recognition solution from IDEMIA. The face recognition device obtains a biometric scan from a safe distance and matches facial features with credentials in an encrypted database. Doors and gates open via the BIS Access Engine and the Bosch Access Modular Controller (AMC2).

• Touchless fingerprint readers. Integrated with IDEMIA’s Morphowave reader, BIS 4.8 controls access via a touchless fingerprint scan. A simple wave of the hand in front of the touchless sensor triggers a 3D scan of four fingers. Access rights are confirmed within less than one second by the system's fingerprint database for a clean and highly secure solution.

• Access via mobile phones. In conjunction with the mobile access control solutions from STid and HID, BIS 4.8 allows users to use their mobile phone instead of a card for access at the secure reader. For STid’s Mobile ID, the method requires an STid reader, while a Bosch Lectus secure reader works with HID’s Mobile Access solution. Users only need to install an app to verify access rights and use the safe, wireless technology.

Aside from facilitating contactless access, all three solutions are also intuitive, quick and convenient compared to keycards and similar methods, as there is no need to carry an access card or remember a password in order to gain entry to a building or area.

Seamless fire and intrusion panel integration

Combining BIS 4.8 with Bosch B and G Series intrusion panels or MAP 5000 panels unlocks a new level of convenience: Users require only one authorisation badge to control two systems. Disarming areas of the intrusion system and granting access can be realised with the same badge on the same reader, without entering a PIN code, for easy, one-step authorisation.

Improved flexibility and efficiency

With the introduction of version 4.8, BIS continues to unify the management of multiple security and safety domains and maximise flexibility for key customer requirements. New features include:

• Integration of the latest Bosch Avenar 2000 and 8000 fire panels and peripherals, along with command and control via BIS, with devices and status shown on maps, and events managed more intuitively via an alarm list.

• User authorisation for Bosch B and G Series intrusion panels is managed directly within BIS for up to 2000 users on as many as 25 intrusion panels, instead of handling authorisations separately on each of the 25 panels.

• Central overview of all existing access and B and G Series intrusion authorisations for the complete installation within one system.

With these updates, BIS 4.8 helps operators meet the health and safety demands of the new reality without compromising on functionality and security. As a centralised platform for operational building management, the new version of BIS offers greater convenience, flexibility, and efficiency.

Share this article:

Further reading: