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When it comes to building access, many churches still rely on the traditional method of entering a metal key into a lock. The problem with this system is more personal than mechanical: too many keys can be in circulation without knowing who is holding them. Keys also must be returned whenever a staff member leaves their position. These realities potentially can threaten a church's security.

In response, some churches are moving away from distributing physical keys and toward different types of systems, many of which can be described as "keyless" entry systems. These systems can range from a single electronic card reader at the front door to a massive, computer-controlled system that controls every door in the church facility. Other churches combine the two approaches, using keyless entry for main entrances and keyed entry for interior areas, such as classrooms.

The marketplace is continuing to develop a variety of solutions for keyed and keyless entries of churches, including these three worthwhile products.

The most visible part of any entry system is the device, mounted on or near a door, which monitors access. The EntryProx 125 kHz stand-alone proximity reader, manufactured by HID Global, can be installed to provide access to a single door of your church's choosing (often the facility's front door or the main entry to a children's area). It is suitable for use as a single unit in a smaller facility or for remote locations, such as a storage shed or garage.

The EntryProx operates two primary ways. The first is by entering a personal identification number (PIN) onto a keypad. If an unauthorized person tries to enter a combination of random PINs in an attempt to gain entry, the EntryProx foils the attempt with an "invalid PIN" lockout.

The second method is by recognizing an item carried by the person, such as a coded identification card, badge, or key tag. Each reader can be programmed to recognize 2,000 of these identification devices. The reader can be programmed to accept PIN numbers only, cards only, or both.

Churches can install the reader for a single door or they can install it into a larger online access system for multiple doors. The reader can be controlled remotely by downloading transactions and card databases into a PDA device, such as a Palm Pilot or a PDA cell phone.

The reader, if mounted outside, can withstand extreme weather conditions ranging from temperatures of 31 degrees below zero to 150 degrees above, and relative humidities ranging from 5 percent to 95 percent.

The EntryProx is one of nine HID proximity readers.

One version of a complete access control system is the CyberLock from Videx. The CyberLock combines electronic lock cylinders, programmable CyberKeys, and a choice of operating software.

Each lock and key contains a unique identification number and encrypted access code. When a CyberKey makes contact with a CyberLock, these numbers and codes are exchanged. If the information matches properly, the key will open the lock. If the information does not match, access will be denied.

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