EMKA, originator of the modular mechanical cabinet locking system, has
introduced an electronic version, taking multi-cabinet installation
security into new realms of sophistication. Andy Billingham reports
Poor cabinet security and environmental monitoring, in process control or
telecoms/internet hosting, is unacceptable. Consequently, the demand for
a controlled access and monitored system - which, importantly, does not
hinder the work of authorised service personnel - has been growing.
EMKA's new ELM system, which is based on a conventional CANbus network
with a capacity of 512 cabinet handles, addresses these issues
comprehensively.
ELM's front-end Windows environment is intuitive to anyone familiar with
Microsoft products. It provides a set-up and automatic logging facility
for the bus modules, to define such parameters as: who has access; how
access may be achieved; when access is permitted; what environmental
sensor alarms are set; at what levels alarms are set, and what
environmental controls are operated (fan, heater, air conditioner).The
system is based on individual cabinet Communication Modules, linked to
Handle Control Modules (each of which can control up to eight handles).
In addition, cabinets can be fitted with Sensor Modules linked to
customer specified sensors, including those for measuring temperature,
humidity, fan failure or even computer hard drive vibration levels.
Remote access is provided by Keypad Modules, proximity card sensors,
telephone modems and networked computers, each of which may be connected
anywhere on the network - either within the relevant cabinet or in a
central control room. Other access identification systems are also
possible, including fingerprint and retinal scanners. A novel feature of
ELM is the inclusion of a GSM modem for mobile 'phone access to the
network. The mobile effectively becomes the technician's remote keypad,
enabling him or her to dial into the bus, enter a PIN and open a cabinet
door without any physical key.
EMKA software for ELM installations includes a System Manager with set-up
process and housekeeping functions. This allows a five-level hierarchy of
master codes to be established, with the validity of each code set by
date, number of uses and so on. There are over four billion possible
codes, while data transfer of sensitive information over the bus is fully
encrypted for complete security. So flexible is the network that it may
also be interfaced to proprietary LAN systems (running SNMP protocol) and
building control systems via a linked computer, giving operators the
freedom to monitor and control the equipment installation from anywhere
in the world.
For co-location environments, where shared housing is involved with
multiple compartments per cabinet, ELM offers a networked lock and handle
release mechanism (controlled from a central facility), or a zoned
approach with proximity card area access and keypad/PIN local
cabinet/compartment entry. Each entry, or attempt at entry, is logged,
along with the environmental alarm parameters of every cabinet. At the
same time each client/service technician may have access, limited by date
or by number of visits. Obsolete personnel codes are easily deleted from
the system.
Where there is the risk of vandalism, all external door hardware can be
removed and replaced by a powered locking mechanism connected to a GSM
modem for mobile 'phone access. The technician simply dials the cabinet
modem and enters a PIN via the mobile's keypad to open the door. On
completion, the door is shut and the powered mechanism re-locks the
cabinet. An observer would only see the technician approach, mobile in
hand, and the cabinet door open as he approached - a sophisticated remote
access system for extra security.
Andy Billingham is with EMKA (UK)
Back to October 2003