BLE-Based Access Control System

Overview 

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology is transforming access control systems by providing secure and efficient management of entry points. These systems are comprised of one or multiple BLE gateways that work in conjunction with numerous BLE beacons, allowing for seamless monitoring and control of access to restricted areas. With an adjustable system range of up to 900 ft (300 meters) indoors and 4,921 ft (1,500 meters) outdoors, BLE systems offer flexibility and extensive coverage compared to traditional RFID systems. 

BLE technology, also referred to as Bluetooth Smart or Bluetooth Low Energy, boasts significant advantages over conventional RFID solutions. Enhanced energy efficiency translates into longer battery life for beacons, which can last up to 10 years. Additionally, lightweight beacons of 0.042 oz (1.2 g) are compact as thin as 0.06 in (1.5 mm) and designed to withstand harsh conditions with an IP67 rating. This ruggedness ensures reliable operation in various environments. 

Placement of BLE gateways is crucial for optimal performance; they should be located at key access points, such as entrances and exits, to ensure comprehensive coverage. BLE beacons should be positioned on access cards, tags, or mobile devices, allowing for efficient tracking and authentication as users approach entry points. 

Features 

  • Adjustable System Range: Offers a range of up to 900 ft (300 meters) indoors and 4,921 ft (1,500 meters) outdoors, adaptable to various environments. 
  • Long Battery Life: Beacons can operate for up to 10 years, reducing maintenance needs and costs. 
  • Multiple Power Options for Gateways: Gateways can be powered by PoE, battery, solar power, or standard power outlets, providing installation flexibility. 
  • Power Options for Beacons: Beacons utilize either battery or solar power, ensuring operational reliability. 
  • Durable Design: Rugged IP67-rated beacons resist dust and moisture, making them suitable for challenging environments. 
  • Scalability: The system can expand to accommodate multiple beacons and gateways, meeting diverse access control needs. 
  • Gateway Placement: Strategic placement at entrances, exits, and high-traffic areas ensures maximum coverage and security. 
  • Beacon Placement: Beacons can be integrated into access cards, tags, or mobile devices for seamless user authentication. 

Technical Specifications 

  • System Range: Up to 900 ft (300 meters) indoors, 4,921 ft (1,500 meters) outdoors 
  • Beacon Thickness: 0.06 in (1.5 mm) 
  • Beacon Weight: 0.042 oz (1.2 g) 
  • Battery Life: Up to 10 years 
  • Power Source (Gateways): PoE, battery, solar power, or power outlets 
  • Power Source (Beacons): Battery or solar power 
  • Beacon Durability: IP67-rated 

Applications 

  • Corporate Offices: BLE access control systems can manage entry to sensitive areas, enhancing security and streamlining employee access. 
  • Educational Institutions: Schools and universities can use BLE to regulate access to labs, libraries, and other restricted facilities, ensuring safety. 
  • Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals can implement BLE access control to limit entry to sensitive areas like pharmacies, operating rooms, and patient records rooms. 
  • Government Buildings: BLE technology can secure access to government offices and facilities, maintaining strict control over who can enter and when. 
  • Manufacturing Plants: Factories can use BLE to restrict access to machinery and sensitive areas, ensuring employee safety and compliance with regulations. 
  • Event Venues: BLE access control can manage entry to concerts, conferences, and exhibitions, providing a smooth experience for attendees. 
  • Data Centers: Facilities can secure access to critical infrastructure, preventing unauthorized entry and protecting sensitive information. 
  • Research Facilities: Laboratories can use BLE systems to manage access to valuable research equipment and sensitive data storage areas. 
  • Hotel Management: BLE technology can enhance guest experiences by providing secure access to rooms and amenities using mobile devices. 
  • Retail Environments: Retail stores can implement BLE access control to manage employee access to stock rooms and secure areas, enhancing inventory management. 

Industry Standards and Compliance 

  • Industry Standards: ISO/IEC 14443, ISO/IEC 18092, Bluetooth 5.0 standards 
  • U.S. Regulations: FCC Part 15, NIST FIPS 140-2 
  • Canadian Regulations: ICES-003, RSS-247 

GAO Case Studies 

  • Corporate Office, New York, USA: A large corporation implemented BLE access control to secure restricted areas, leading to a significant reduction in unauthorized entry incidents. 
  • University Campus, Los Angeles, USA: A university adopted BLE technology to manage access to laboratories and dormitories, enhancing safety and improving access control efficiency. 
  • Hospital, Houston, USA: A healthcare facility deployed BLE access systems to secure pharmacies and operating rooms, improving patient safety and compliance with regulations. 
  • Government Agency, Washington, D.C., USA: A government office implemented BLE access control to manage entry to sensitive areas, increasing security and accountability. 
  • Manufacturing Facility, Seattle, USA: A manufacturing plant utilized BLE technology to restrict access to machinery, ensuring compliance and improving worker safety. 
  • Research Institute, Toronto, Canada: A research institute implemented a BLE access control system to regulate entry to labs, enhancing security for sensitive research projects. 

 

Here are some of our products that are suitable for this system: 

BLE Beacons 

BLE Gateways 

 

Our system has been developed and deployed. It is off-the-shelf or can be easily customized according to your needs. If you have any questions, our technical experts can help you. Please fill out this form or email us.