SECURITY SYSTEMS
HELPING HOUSING PROVIDERS FUTUREPROOF ACCESS CONTROL WITH COST-EFFECTIVE , WIRELESS SOLUTIONS
Investment in repairs and maintenance on social housing dropped significantly during the UK ’ s lockdowns – from £ 1.9bn in 2020 to £ 1.6bn in 2021 .
» AS THE WORLD ADAPTS TO A ‘ NEW normal ’, activity is already picking up to pre-pandemic levels . But now , social and private housing providers must show value for money to ensure resources are used as effectively as possible , amid closer scrutiny on spending . So , how can installers meet this demand for costefficient , user-friendly access control ?
Powered by GSM technology
The next generation of wireless access control systems harness the power of GSM , or the ‘ Global System for Mobile Communications ’. A digital cellular technology , it has long formed the foundation for mobile phone data networks , allowing users to make and receive calls across an unlimited range . Now it is transforming the residential access sector as a completely wireless , digital system that connects visitors to tenants via their mobile phones . This means that building door entry devices are cable-free – removing the need for complex wiring and clunky plastic handsets in flats , while offering housing providers a variety of benefits from fast initial set-up through to easier everyday property management .
Benefits for everyone
By implementing GSM-powered wireless access control systems , users can connect across a network of unlimited range . This allows residents to easily grant property access via their mobile phone or landline , wherever they are – even if they ’ re not at home . Plus , more advanced models have
an integrated video camera too , so residents can view visitors before granting entry in just a few taps . Not only do wireless entry systems reassure them of building security , it ’ s also a great option for those with reduced mobility . Elderly residents , and those with disabilities , don ’ t have to rush to the handset next to the door - they can use their own devices , or landline phone , to reply to the intercom and grant access .
Wireless access control devices are good news for time-poor housing providers too . Connected to secure , online remote management systems , these systems can streamline workflows by keeping all administration in a centralised , digital platform . As such , housing and property managers can oversee all access to their buildings and view event logs without leaving their desk – saving valuable time and costs via reduced site visits . This makes carrying out day-to-day administration tasks , like deleting a lost key fob or granting access to an external contractor , much easier - as they don ’ t need to travel to each site to make changes to tenant information or allow entry to maintenance teams .
The right intercom
When choosing a new wireless access control system , however , it ’ s important to remember that not all devices are created equal . The latest models have advanced features that provide real added value for residents and housing professionals . Intratone , for example , recently launched the SC-03 wireless intercom , connected to a secure , online remote management system , to make door entry even more seamless for everyone .
The wireless SC-03 intercom raises the bar on resident engagement , thanks to its innovative full-colour screen that displays animations and logos – for added visual appeal . Harnessing the latest intercom technology , the SC-03 boasts a pinhole video camera , integrated hands-free proximity reader and braille , backlit coded keypad . As well as preventing unwanted visitors from gaining entry , these features make entry into residences more accessible and intuitive . As a wireless technology , there ’ s no extensive recabling required or handsets to install – and its surface-mounted finish means that there ’ s no need to insert the intercom into the wall . Not only does this reduce time on-site but individual flats don ’ t have to be entered , so residents are not disturbed . What ’ s more , the SC-03 is a small initial investment , with flexible monthly service fees – to suit a range of needs .
Long-term value
As housing providers focus on catching up with building repairs and maintenance works , choosing a wireless access control system , like Intratone ’ s wireless SC-03 intercom , supports a future-proofed solution for tomorrow , that ’ s also feasible within today ’ s financial constraints . As well as providing a cost-effective option , the time saved during set-up and in everyday working practices can bring benefits to housing professionals for many years to come .
www . intratone . uk . com
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MAR / APR 2022
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