Comprehensive Guide to Commercial Access Control Configuration — Austin, TX
Comprehensive Guide to Commercial Access Control Configuration in Austin, Texas
Understanding Access Control Configuration and Installation
Avenger Security provides full-service cloud-managed access control systems in Austin, Texas. Our team specializes in configuring commercial door hardware, integrating electric locks, and connecting each component to your managed access platform.
The total cost depends on the type of door, hardware, and configuration required. On average, a standard access control installation ranges from $2,000 to $2,500 per door, which includes all necessary equipment, configuration, and professional installation.
Standard Access Control Equipment Includes:
- Door Controller
- AC/DC Power Supply and Transformer
- Backup Battery
- Reader (single or dual credential)
- Request-to-Exit (REX) Device
- Door Sensor
Cloud-Based Management and Control
Avenger Security’s cloud-managed access control platform allows management and administrators to control doors remotely from a browser or mobile app. Administrators can create user groups, assign access schedules, and configure which doors are accessible during business hours. Every access event is recorded in the system log for reporting and compliance.
Dual Credential Reader Recommendation
We recommend installing at least one dual credential reader per facility. These readers combine a proximity card reader with a keypad, allowing access by card, PIN, or both. Dual credential readers provide redundancy if a card is lost or forgotten and meet security requirements for government and high-security facilities.
For outdoor installations, Avenger Security uses stainless steel weatherproof epoxy-coated dual credential readers designed for durability and reliability. Facility owners and directors are typically assigned 6- to 8-digit PIN codes, while staff users can be configured to require both card and PIN credentials for entry.
Different Methods of Electric Lock Configuration
Different Ways to Configure Electric Locks on Commercial Doors
Electric Motorized Crash Bars
The electric motorized crash bar is ideal for commercial aluminum entry doors with existing push bars. Motors can be ordered to retrofit most crash bar models. Installation requires a door cord and provides an efficient, code-compliant egress solution.
Electric Rim Strikes
For doors already equipped with crash bars, electric rim strikes mount directly on the door frame without cutting. These are commonly used on steel or wood commercial doors and offer a quick and cost-effective solution for adding electronic locking capability.
Electric Strikes
Electric strikes are recessed into the door frame and recommended for aluminum commercial doors with deadlatch or deadbolt hardware. Installation requires precise routing using a jig and high-speed router. Our team carefully tapes the frame and uses aluminum cutting paste to ensure a clean, accurate installation.
Electric Handles and Door Coring
When installing electric handles on wood doors, our technicians use a specialized method known as “coring the door.” This process involves drilling through the center of the door and replacing the middle hinge with a wired hinge to conceal cabling. It’s a detailed process that ensures a professional, clean finish.
Electric Mortise Lock Bodies
Commercial facilities with existing mortise locks can upgrade to electric mortise lock bodies compatible with brands like Adams Rite, Sargent, Yale, Corbin, Russwin, and Falcon. Electric solenoid kits are available for many lock models and can be wired through a door cord or wired hinge for power and control.
Avoid Using Magnetic Locks
Magnetic locks (maglocks) should be avoided in most access control configurations. Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) require magnetic locks to release on power failure and fire alarm activation, which compromises security. In addition, AHJs prohibit using battery backup with magnetic locks because they must fail-safe during emergencies.
Installing magnetic locks also requires a Request-to-Exit (REX) device and manual release button wired directly to the lock — which can leave the building unsecure during outages. For this reason, Avenger Security recommends mechanical electric locking hardware instead of maglocks for compliance and safety.
Request to Exit (REX) and Door Sensor Integration
The REX, or Request to Exit device, signals the system when someone exits through a door. When the REX detects motion before a door opens, the event is logged as normal. If the door opens without REX activity, the system records a forced entry event and can alert administrators or dispatch emergency services. Door sensors work alongside REX devices to confirm open/close status and provide complete event tracking.
Professional Access Control Installation in Austin, TX
Avenger Security provides professional access control installation, maintenance, and management for commercial facilities throughout Austin, Texas. Our licensed team ensures every system is code-compliant, reliable, and designed for long-term performance.
