Entrance Systems: A Guide for
Retrofits and Upgrades

Technology advancements in gate systems and intercoms brings opportunities for integrators and end-users to launch new projects

Many entrance and visitor management systems currently deployed still rely on aging and/or outdated analog technology; however, manufacturers in this space – as in many others – have introduced upgrades that enable systems like intercoms and perimeter gates to be transitioned to a network-based infrastructure.

These upgrades have several advantages, as they offer the end-user far greater features and functionality while at the same time streamlining installation and operation. For integrators, an aging population of these unevolved technologies presents a business opportunity for upgrades, retrofits, and even total replacement. This exclusive technology roundtable sponsored by manufacturer DoorKing gathers a product expert and two experienced integrators to dig deeper into this opportunity.

Gilliam: Most users push for replacement over repair or upgrade for one of the following reasons: The system is problematic to the point that it is not reliable and/or a security risk; they see other systems with features they do not have; or the system is damaged due to an accident or some other incident. When confronted with expensive repair costs, most of our clients want to start looking at what new features and or enhancements are available. The other reason is timed replacement. As a systems integrator, we hold the responsibility to make sure we are presenting our clients with what offerings are available that will enhance a system’s usage and/or functionality. Then we need to help them understand lifecycles and how to plan for replacement in their budgeting process.

White: This would be determined by the technology needs of the customer(s) and if the existing system is capable of being upgraded to the desired features or if a total change is needed. Existing power and data infrastructure would need to be looked at as well, as it may need to be replaced to support new systems power and data requirements. When changing an analog telephone entry system to a mobile app-based video intercom with access solution, you will need to figure out if the existing power and data cable infrastructure can support the new power and data requirements. The good news is that in 2022, there are numerous solutions for acquiring data requirements of the system.

Whitmire: In many cases, parts availability becomes a major determining factor – which has especially become true with the world’s ongoing chip and component shortage. Automated gate systems can be very complex, especially in the case of maximum security and industrial, restricted access applications (UL Class 3 and 4). These machines can be extremely expensive, so replacing parts as needed and as available typically makes most sense. Many gate operators now feature smart controllers that will provide data to the administrator as well as to technicians, which may be desirable in certain situations and applications. In the case of intercoms, there are many systems that still work fine and are many years old. Typically, the upgrade is much more cost effective and is undertaken to allow for cellular or data over IP programming, or to gain some new features that did not exist when the product was installed, such as app based, live video, visitor management software, etc.

Gilliam: The first thing to remember is to check everything prior to the start of the installation. Make sure you know what is connected to the system and what they do. On many legacy systems, we find that other systems are intertwined with the system you are going to replace – which can cause a lot of heartache if you disconnect something that is using part of the existing system to complete its functions. The other thing to keep in mind is to replace the wiring if at all possible. We find many older systems have wiring that is compromised, which will cause the new system to have problems from the start.

White: Be sure to understand the new system’s power and data requirements, network requirements and what Software as a Service (SaaS) needs are required.

Whitmire: We have gate operators that are 20-plus years old that are still in operation. The most critical thing for an integrator to understand when replacing a older gate opener is the requirement to bring the entire system up to the current UL325/ASTM F2200 standard. This can factor in many different things, including (but not limited to) the addition of contact and/or non-contact sensing devices, such as edges and photobeams. Today’s gate operators will not function without sensing the presence of monitored external devices. This is a costly mistake for the installer if they quote replacement without understanding the UL/ASTM requirements. The standard also includes things such as fall-over protection, reach-through screening, entrapment protection, and more. I would strongly encourage any integrator involved in new or retrofit installations to purchase the ASTM F2200 standard (available for purchase at www.astm.org/f2200-20.html). Understanding the F2200 standard could prevent a major catastrophe in the field.

Gilliam: At this point, we are no longer connecting to POTS lines; our two options are cellular or network/internet connection. If the system is going to transmit video, then the cellular connection may not be the best option due to high data usage. Internet connections can be a little more difficult to install, as you need a reliable network connection out at the entry system itself. We have used network radios to solve this issue. In many cases, this type of equipment is not only a quick solution but also a lower-cost one.

White: We use cellular with voice and data, network outdoor routers with dual SIM Cards, or point-to-point radios that connect the site’s network router and home run from the site’s existing network location.

Whitmire: Cellular and VoIP are the most popular connection options today. Many POTS systems have already been upgraded as copper has all but ceased to exist. Factors such as cellular signal strength and network connection availability are the biggest factors to consider.

Gilliam: There are several advancements that our clients have been asking for over the last few years. They are looking for a mobile app-based system that will allow for two-way voice and video from the entry point, as well as some type of guest pass system. We have also seen a migration to touchless or automatic systems. The rise of Automatic Vehicle Identification (AVI) and auto-open at doors has become a hot-button issue with clients, especially in the current climate. This is causing us to look into systems that a few years ago were not available. In many cases, we are combining several systems to achieve what our clients require.

White: Top requests include cloud-based video intercoms and cloud-based entry systems using QR codes.

Whitmire: Thinking about what new apartment complexes offer residents today vs. just a few years ago, there is a staggering technology difference. Prospective tenants are now looking for more sophisticated visitor management interfaces featuring apps and QR codes. The smartphone is king, everything is going app-based with live video streaming to identify the caller. Also, APIs are highly requested to allow the visitor access system to integrate with other software platforms.

Gilliam: Most communities do not require a crash-rated system; however, they are used in more and more industrial and high-security applications. For residential and lower-security facilities, there are other options, such as a combination of iron gates and barrier arm gates. Iron gates can be made to be aesthetically pleasing and security strong. Combine them with barrier arm gates to control tailgating, thus enhancing the overall security of the property.

White: Apartments and multi-use commercial parking lots are ideal targets, because they are easier to install and more affordable than higher-rated crash barriers.

Whitmire: Crash-rated barriers are very expensive and can be difficult to install. Some systems rely on hydraulics, which are no longer permitted in some instances due to leakage potential. In other applications, such as car rental agencies, the customer seeks a system that can stop a vehicle at low speed and does not require something rated for much higher speeds. Many times, the exit route is configured to prevent a vehicle from gaining much speed, yet the desire is to have something more substantial than a standard barrier arm. This is an application where a lane barrier becomes a fantastic solution.