ASSA C4 System Secures Columbus Airport

Determining patterns of movement in any facility requiring a high level of security is useful, but in a busy airport setting, it is critical. Any unauthorized entry to a secure area results in a compromise of access control protocol and public safety may be jeopardized. Any opening to a secure or sensitive space will usually have some sort of locking mechanism to restrict access to only those who are authorized to have access. But monitoring who is attempting to gain entry can be important intelligence. “There is always value in determining when someone attempts to access an area that they are not authorized to access,” Hinds says.

The C4 system provides a detailed record of who tried to access an opening and at what time, even on openings that would be difficult or impossible to supply power to such as gates or out buildings. Reports of who is attempting unauthorized entry can be valuable evidence to any investigative body seeking to contain risk before it becomes a threat.

Utilizing the C4 and Twin Maximum combination, a facility can be equipped with high security mechanical cylinders on openings that are not EAC critical and deploy electronic cylinders on only those that require that capability. This option gives the facility the flexibility to apply the EAC feature on only the openings that require it and allows the key holder the convenience of only having to carry one key that can open both locks. As an added option, the C4 key can also carry a proximity tag that can be incorporated into an HID compatible wired access control system just like a standard HID prox card enabling the key holder to access up to 3 different types of secured opening with only one credential.

C4 software is easy to learn and can run on either a desktop computer or laptop. The database can be deployed to either a local machine or a network server, allowing multiple users to work with the system. The software enables the administrator to program cylinders and keys easily, download and view audit trails, work with time schedules, and track key holders. On site training by factory certified personnel is available for all new C4 systems.

C4 cylinders are available in most lock manufacturers’ standard cylinder shapes and can be installed in virtually any commercial hardware application with no special preparation. ASSA’s core business has always been supplying a high security option for existing Grade 1 hardware and as such it has sought to provide an EAC solution that can be conveniently installed with minimal disruption at the door and at an affordable price. A typical hard wired access control system could cost as much as $3,000 per opening or more including labor and materials. Furthermore the ancillary hardware required can detract from the aesthetics of the opening. An ASSA C4 cylinder can be installed for as little as $600 retail per opening.

Chris Hinds observed, “Utilizing the C4 system allows us to maintain access accountability without the cost of adding the full computerized access control system. Given the doors we have chosen to add the C4 system to, it is definitely a more cost effective way to secure a door and maintain accountability.”