Introduction
A common misconception among customers is that Sine, the visitor and contractor management system, directly handles the detailed formatting of QR codes for access control. This guide aims to clarify how Sine generates QR codes and the role of external systems and readers in processing these codes.
Understanding QR Code Generation in Sine
When integrating Sine with access control systems like Honeywell EBI (Enterprise Buildings Integrator), it's essential to understand the division of responsibilities:
QR Code Generation: Sine generates a QR code from a card number received from the access control system (e.g., EBI, Oloid, Siemens, Inner Range, etc). This card number is a simple numerical value without any embedded bit formatting.
QR Code Printing: Sine prints the generated QR code on a visitor's badge. This badge can be used by visitors to gain access to specific areas within a facility.
Role of the Access Control System
The ACS is responsible for:
Card Number Assignment: ACS assigns a card number to each visitor. This number is communicated back to Sine, which then generates the corresponding QR code.
Credential Management: ACS handles the creation of cardholder records and potentially assigns access rights. The ACS might also set a validity period for the credential, such as allowing access for a limited time (e.g., one hour), which can be informed by Sine's pass expiry field.
Role of the QR Code Reader
The QR code reader at the access point (e.g., turnstile or door) plays a crucial role in interpreting the QR code:
Reading the QR Code: The reader scans the QR code and extracts the card number.
Processing the Card Number: The reader is configured to convert the card number into the appropriate bit format required by the access control system. This includes adding facility codes, parity bits, and ensuring the output (e.g., Wiegand string) matches the format expected by the controller.
Common Misconception
A prevalent misunderstanding is that Sine directly formats the QR code to match the access control system's bit requirements. Instead, Sine exposes and print a QR code from the card number it receives. The detailed formatting and interpretation of the card number into a usable access credential are handled by the QR code reader and the access control system.
Conclusion
When using Sine for visitor and contractor management in conjunction with access control systems like Honeywell EBI or Pro-Watch, it's essential to configure the QR code readers correctly. These readers must be programmed to interpret the card number in a format that the access control system recognizes. By understanding these roles and responsibilities, you can ensure a seamless integration and efficient access management for visitors.