High-end residential properties and commercial buildings demand top-tier security. Integrating video entry with your access control systems provides the ultimate solution for these demanding sites.
Door Entry Online was founded by experienced installers of door entry kits. We spent years fitting these setups on active sites across the UK. Because of this hands-on background, we know exactly what hardware performs best in the real world. That practical experience ensures our kits are the best choice for both professional tradespeople and retail consumers looking for dependable security.
Here is how you can successfully combine video intercoms with robust access control for your next big project.
Why Audio-Only Intercoms Are No Longer Enough
Audio intercoms used to be the industry standard. Today, they fall short of modern security expectations. Tenants, receptionists, and security staff want to see exactly who is standing outside before they unlock the door.
Audio panels force users to guess. An intruder can easily lie about their identity or pretend to be a delivery driver. Adding video completely removes this risk. A clear camera feed gives users absolute certainty. It stops unauthorised people from tailgating or tricking their way inside, instantly upgrading the safety of the entire building.
How Access Control Systems and Video Entry Work Together
These two technologies blend perfectly to secure a shared entrance. The video intercom handles external visitors, while the access reader handles daily users like staff and residents.
You do not need to fit two separate locking mechanisms. Both setups share the same power supply, door controller, and electric lock. When a visitor rings the bell, the tenant checks the video monitor and presses the release button to open the door. When a resident arrives, they simply tap their proximity fob on the panel to get inside. When wired correctly, the two units act as one seamless barrier.
The Benefits of Combined Systems
Combining these setups gives you the best of both worlds: visual verification and secure fob entry.
For the user, it means total convenience. Residents bypass the call system entirely by using their smart fobs. For the building manager, it means total control. You can track exactly whose fob opened the door while maintaining a secure visual check on all outside visitors. This dual approach cuts down on false entries and keeps the property highly secure.
Key Components: Video Panels with Built-in Keypads/Readers
To save installation time and keep the front of the building looking neat, you should specify combined entry panels.
The Prestige 607-2 Video Entry Kit is an excellent example of this approach. It packages a high-definition camera, a call button, and a secure keypad into one sleek metal housing. Instead of chasing out brickwork to fit two separate devices, you install a single panel. This speeds up your time on site and gives the client a much cleaner finish.
Installation Tips for Combined IP & Video Systems
Modern IP-based systems run on data networks, which require a careful approach to wiring and setup.
Use pure copper CAT6 cable to ensure the best video and data flow. Copper-clad aluminium (CCA) cables often cause voltage drops and poor picture quality. Always map out your IP addresses on paper before you arrive at the site. This stops network conflicts when you boot the system up. Finally, keep the main power supply as close to the locking device as possible to ensure the magnet or strike gets a full flow of power. Test the video feed and the fob reader independently before handing the site over.
Adding video to your access control systems provides a massive upgrade for any high-end site. Because we started as professional installers, we supply the reliable kits you need to get the job done right the first time.
Explore our access control systems today. We support UK trade professionals with automatic bulk-buy discounts to help you build your margins. You get 3% off orders over £250, 10% off orders over £750, and a massive 15% off orders over £1,500.
