SECURITY SYSTEMS
Building better connections with GSM technology
» THE DIGITAL SHIFT WITHIN THE housing sector is showing no signs of slowing down .
For installers , there has never been more demand for these types of solutions . Whether it ’ s the increased popularity of ‘ smart ’ technology ( think Alexa and Google Nest , or smart meters and thermostats ), or digital replacements for more traditional tools such as bulletin boards , it ’ s a great time to expand your portfolio . And for access control installations in particular , GSM technology is a digital-first solution that has the power to optimise processes for both housing professionals and residents alike .
A digital age
For both Housing Associations and private property management businesses , there is undoubtedly an increased awareness of the ways that technology can streamline their everyday processes and operations . A key driver towards expanding and embedding digital ways of working is the need to save money , time and overall resources , but it can also improve the tenants ’ relationship with their housing provider via increased efficiency and responsiveness , and – in the case of access control – enhanced building security . With residents ’ expectations for innovative , user-friendly solutions only increasing , and with the UK Government ’ s Local Digital
Declaration initiative actively encouraging local authorities to embrace technology , this trend is going from strength to strength – which is why GSM is a great technology for every installer to adopt .
GSM , or the Global System for Mobile Communications , isn ’ t in itself a new technology . A digital cellular technology that transmits data such as voice and video streams to other devices , it ’ s in fact the foundation for mobile phone data networks , allowing users to both make and receive calls . What is new , however , and what is potentially transformational for the building access sector , is its application beyond telecommunications . As a completely wireless and digital system , GSM makes plastic handsets and traditional wired intercoms obsolete , and instead transforms door entry devices into cable-free systems , able to connect users across a network at unlimited range .
Advantages for everyone
For the residents themselves , property access can be easily granted via mobile phone calls , no matter where they are . Traditional wired intercoms – which rely on radio-frequency technology – have a limited range , but with GSM-based wireless systems residents can answer their door no matter where they are – whether in their apartment or elsewhere : boosting security while also being a great option for those with restricted mobility .
Meanwhile , for housing and property managers , GSM-enabled wireless access control devices have the potential to revolutionise current working practices . There is no need for mechanical keys , which are frequently lost , and as the technology can easily be linked to existing remote or off-site management systems , housing providers can oversee all access to their buildings without leaving their desk . As such , property professionals can also carry out day-to-day administration tasks , such as making real-time changes to key fobs , flat numbers and tenant information , in a more streamlined and efficient way , without the need for a site visit .
The power of connection
As no wires or physical handsets are required , GSM-based access control devices are ideal for retrofit installations . Installers do not need to enter individual properties to fit receivers or handsets , making installations hassle-free and safer , especially with the current social distancing guidance in place . With minimal hardware and innovative plug-and-play software , ongoing maintenance is reduced too , allowing installers to deliver a seamless , uncomplicated service for housing providers .
At Intratone , our entire range of access control and property management systems have been created using GSM technology . From intercoms to coded keypads , digital noticeboards to proximity readers , our solutions are all wireless – ensuring easy installations , user-friendliness as well as increased efficiency . Plus , as all of our systems are connected to a remote , secure online management system , housing professionals can also complete timeintensive administrative tasks and keep an eye on building security in real-time , in just a few clicks .
Future-proof solutions
Reflecting on a challenging year to deliver services remotely and the ongoing digital movement , housing professionals are seeking systems that reduce inefficiencies and that are easy to both set up and use . By offering customers technologies such as GSMbased wireless access control devices , installers everywhere will be ready to face the digital transformation of the industry head-on and stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace .
www . intratone . uk . com
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JUL / AUG 2021
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