Bosch access easy controller system helps telx monitor security at its facility

The Access Easy Controller reads the building's HID cards as unique data strings

End user:

telx has more than a dozen locations nationwide and is the leading provider of carrier-neutral Meet Me Room and Core Interconnection Facilities in North America. telx's network facilities deliver quality solutions for telecommunications carriers, ISPs, content providers and enterprise networks. One deployment at telx can seamlessly provide customers access to an abundance of global networks and major peering exchanges in multiple markets.

Business objective:

telx occupies two suites in one of the largest buildings in Manhattan, which spans 2.8 million square feet and a full square block. Building management requires that tenant employees and visitors wear identification and obtain proper clearance to enter the building. Anyone attempting to enter the building beyond the lobby must carry a proprietary access card provided by building management. While this level of security is sufficient for some building tenants, telx needed an extra layer of protection.

Solution:

telx required an access control system and wished to use the access cards employees were already required to present to enter the building. However, building management was not willing to share information about its HID cards.

The Bosch Access Easy Controller read the building's HID cards as unique data strings, which enabled telx's access control system to be programmed to recognize the cards. The employees of telx only have to present one card to gain access to the building and to the secure rooms to which they have authorized right of entry, making the system convenient for employees.

Because the system is browser-based, it is very easy to use. The time required for training users was a fraction of what is normally required with other access control systems. While this installation only secured one area for telx, the company plans to add access control to another facility on a different floor of the building.

With the network-ready Access Easy Controller, telx will be able to use its existing IP network and eliminate the need for additional wiring between the facilities. This design will keep costs down for telx and add further convenience with one centralized access control interface, which can be operated from any computer throughout the two facility floors the company leases.

Result:

With the intuitive user interface, the telx employees were adding users and managing schedules after minimal instruction. The system helps telx generate reports showing who has entered or attempted to access its secure Meet Me Room facilities from any Web browser.

"We must provide our customers with the greatest assurances that their communications equipment is protected," said Chan Boodram, facilities manager for telx's 111 8th Avenue site. "This system gives us more control over access to our Meet Me Rooms, helping us better demonstrate the security of our facility."