In modern buildings, card access systems are preferred for elevators to increase security, prevent unauthorized access, and provide controlled access to floors. These systems are particularly common in residences, shopping malls, plazas, public institutions, and apartment buildings.
🔍 What is a Card Access System?
Card access systems are electronic security systems that allow each user to access the elevator only to the floors they are authorized to , by assigning a special card (or key fob, wristband, mobile access, etc.) to each user.
⚙️ How Does the System Work?
1. Card Reader (RFID/Proximity) is Installed in the Elevator Cabin:
When the user gets into the elevator, he scans his card on the device.
2. Works Integrated with the Central Control Unit:
The system checks which floors the card is authorized for.
3. Button Locking is Activated:
If the person is not authorized, the elevator will not move even if other floor buttons are pressed.
Only the button for the authorized floor becomes active.
4. Access Logs Are Kept (Optional):
Entries/exits are recorded and can be monitored in central software.
🔧 How to Install? Step by Step Installation Process
1. Needs Analysis is Performed
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How many floors are there?
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Which users will go to which floors?
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Will an online or offline system be required?
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Compatibility with the existing elevator system is examined.
2. Hardware is Selected
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Card reader (inside the elevator cabin)
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Control panel (to the elevator control panel)
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Relay module (for button lock)
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Electronic cards (staff, guests, etc.)
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Optional: Central software, Ethernet connection, log server
3. Wiring and Connection are Made
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The signal from the card reader is transmitted to the control panel.
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The control panel checks the card authorization.
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The appropriate buttons are released (by relay triggering method).
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The entire system is tested and user definitions are made on the software side.
4. Software Installation and Card Identification
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Floor definitions are made (example: Card 001 → only 2nd and 5th floors)
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User database is created
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Input and output logs are stored optionally in the cloud or locally.
🧠 Usage Scenarios
| User Type | Access Authorization |
|---|---|
| Apartment resident | It can only go up to its own floor |
| Executive | Has access to all floors |
| Visitor | Temporary single floor authorization is granted |
| Cleaning staff | Certain floors at certain hours |
🧰 Technologies Used
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RFID / Mifare Cards (13.56 MHz)
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Proximity Cards (125 kHz)
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QR Code Reader Systems (Optional)
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Bluetooth / NFC mobile passthrough
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TCP/IP based central management software
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Offline systems (standalone devices with memory cards)
✅ Advantages
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🚫 Prevents unauthorized access
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🔐 Each user can be assigned a specific floor authorization.
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📊 Security monitoring is provided with reporting and logging
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🏢 Provides a professional look for buildings such as apartments, shopping malls, hotels, plazas, etc.
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🛠️ Can be integrated into existing elevators; no need to build a system from scratch
⚠️ Things to Pay Attention to
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The type of elevator control panel is important (serial or parallel?)
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Brand/model compatibility (e.g., kits specific to brands such as Otis, Kone, Schindler)
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In case of power outage, a manual switching option should be considered.
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Must have a manager card and temporary authorization
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Compliance with elevator safety standards such as EN 81-20 and EN 81-70 must be checked.
💬 Result
Elevator card access systems are a technological solution that enhances both security and access control. They are an effective solution for both authorization restriction and monitoring, especially in multi-story buildings.
If you want;
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A circuit diagram specific to the project to be implemented
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Brand recommendation and price comparison
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Differences between offline and online systems
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Special setup for hotel or residence type
I can prepare it. Do you want me to help you?
