UK-based Norbain has launched a new and innovative way of delivering access control solutions by combining advanced controller technology with GSM connectivity and cloud-hosted software.

With this, installation time, infrastructure and hardware costs can be significantly reduced, a statement said.

 With unparalleled scalability from 1 to over 10,000 sites, without the need for local servers or infrastructure, the most challenging and diverse of access control systems can be delivered cost effectively, wherever they are located.

“The concept of hosting in the cloud is now very familiar to us,” said Andrew Pigram, business development director at Norbain.

“We use it every day for our voicemails, email and on-line banking, to name but a few. The advantage for access control is that it makes managing multiple sites and users extremely simple, with changes being made instantaneously. This is a great advantage for many applications. Initial interest in the product has been extremely positive and we already have a number of installations from construction sites to town councils.”

According to a company statement, the benefits of the new solution Volo include:

Reduced hardware investment

As well as no requirement for a PC, the GSM GPRS connectivity means that a site does not even need local or direct connection to the internet, making it ideal for remote sites.

Scalable expansion

Simple, virtually unlimited expansion for sites, users and operators without an investment in new software, networks or servers.

Simple system maintenance

System enhancements and upgrades can be made instantly, without the need to visit a site. This ensures the latest version of the software is always in operation, even across multi-site end users.

Immediate system management

System programming, adding users, card issuance, configuring groups and access rights can all be performed from any supported web-browser from anywhere in the world.

Simple license structure

Hosted services are provided through an annual charge as opposed to a higher up-front software investment with upgrade or expansion charges later on. Additional licences are needed only as required and when the system grows. – TradeArabia News Service