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Optical turnstiles are security devices that stop people from coming into restricted areas,
only allowing those with the right clearance to come through. They’re often an essential
part of access control systems. Other parts of these systems include controllers, card
readers, and the necessary software. These types of turnstiles are very much the same
as mechanical turnstiles. Optical models use infrared electronic beams,
as well as visual and audible interfaces in order to control who gets in and out of any
area. If someone how is not supposed to get through attempts to pass, an alert will be
sent to the security team. However, because there is generally a time delay between getting
the alarm and getting to the turnstile, these types are generally not used in subways or
stadiums. And those types of buildings where looks are
as important as security, like a lobby of a bank for example, they’re perfect. You’ll
also find them quite regularly in high rise buildings with a single access door where
there is also reception staff present. These types of turnstiles are able to allow
a great number of people in and out as they are very delays. Because they don’t have
a barrier, they are perfect for people in wheelchairs or others who have other types
of disabilities. The very first optical turnstiles used logic
controllers. They also had big banks with relays, which controlled access cards. Next
to that, they included infrared sensor inputs as well as audible outputs and lights. These
designs needed quite a large control option and were very complicated to operate. The
first time they were used was in the San Francisco market. Walnut Creek, California’s Omega
Corporate Security System installed them there. As such, it was a joint venture. Some of the
companies within the market that use them include Wells Fargo, East Bay Municipal Utility
District and Charles Schwab. Today’s businesses choose optical turnstiles.
We’ve already discussed some of the benefits of optical turnstiles. Basically, they’re
a fantastic choice for those properties where aesthetics are as important as the security.
Optical turnstiles are very stylish-looking and they won’t make any significant changes
to the overall interior design of a building. There are other benefits as well. For starters,
they generally eliminate tailgating. This is because security will immediately receive
an alert telling them that this has occurred. Tailgating is a method used by people to gain
access to buildings without having permitted access. What they do is follow someone in
who does have the right access codes with them and just sneak in behind them. When the
person in front opens the door using their ID, the tailgater can simply hold the door
and walk in after them. This is impossible with an optical turnstile.
As such, having these measures in place will increase the feelings of security people who
do enter the building have. Although tailgating is all but impossible with this type of system,
they still allow around 40 people per minute to go through, which is fantastic, again,
for businesses as time is always of the essence. Speed is a huge issue. Organizational psychologists
have demonstrated that if people don’t have to queue in wait for doors, elevators, escalators,
and so on, their entire working experience is much more positive, increasing their productivity
as well. For customers, clients and service users,
it enhances the feelings of trust they have in the organization, creating a more positive
image where it really matters. For more information about how optical turnstiles
can be used in your business, visit SmarterSecurity.com today.