How Much Does a Full Security System Cost?

When you start thinking about security for your business, cost is usually the first thing that comes to mind. After working with hundreds of Texas businesses, I’ve noticed that many people focus on price before figuring out what they really need. The smartest business owners start by asking what their actual requirements are. Read more

What is the Best Digital Security System?

After installing hundreds of digital security systems across Texas, I’ve found that the best system isn’t always the most high-tech or expensive. The right choice is one that fits smoothly into your daily routine and protects you where you need it most.

A top-of-the-line biometric scanner is useless if your team can’t use it easily... Read more

What is the Best Security System Without a Monthly Fee?

Monthly security fees can quickly add up, leading many business owners to ask if they can get good protection without ongoing payments. Today’s security technology offers strong standalone options that work with a single upfront investment. Read more

What Would Cause a Security Camera to Stop Working?

Security cameras often stop working for a few common reasons that business owners should know. Power problems are the most frequent, such as electrical faults, broken adapters, or dead backup batteries. Network issues can also take cameras offline, especially wireless ones with weak signals or interference. From our experience with integrated security installations, we’ve also seen that extreme weather, moisture, or physical damage can cause cameras to fail.

Hardware failures in older cameras, lens obstruction from dirt or spider webs, and software issues requiring firmware updates are other common culprits. At ZML, we've found that preventive maintenance and proper initial installation significantly reduce these failure rates.

Which Access Control Method Electronically Logs Entry Into a Facility?

Multiple access control methods provide electronic entry logging, each offering different advantages for business security. Card readers using proximity or smart cards create detailed logs including user identity, time, date and access point location. Our keyless entry solutions track every access attempt with precise timestamps and user identification.

Biometric systems, such as fingerprint, palm or retina scanners, offer the most secure logging because these credentials can’t be shared or stolen. Digital keypads record which codes are used, but they only identify individuals if each person has a unique code.

At ZML, we usually recommend card-based systems for most businesses because they offer a good mix of security, convenience and detailed record-keeping.

How Does Keyless Entry Work for Businesses?

Business keyless entry systems use electronic authentication instead of traditional keys, providing enhanced security and operational control. The most common systems include proximity card readers that detect RFID chips when cards are presented, and digital keypad locks requiring PIN codes for access.

Biometric systems use fingerprint or palm scans, while smartphone-based systems rely on Bluetooth or NFC. All these methods connect to an electronic lock that opens when the right credentials are provided.

The key advantage is centralized control. Businesses can instantly grant or revoke access, set time restrictions and track all entry activity. ZML installations typically show immediate operational improvements through simplified access management and detailed security logs.

What is Proximity Card Access Control?

Proximity card access control uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to provide secure, convenient building access. Each card contains a small antenna and microchip that transmits a unique identifier when brought near a card reader. Our access control readers verify this identifier against authorized user databases before granting access.

The system works without any physical contact. Users just hold their cards a few inches from the reader. This contactless method reduces wear and tear, speeds up entry and keeps detailed access records.

We’ve found that proximity cards are great for businesses that need to manage access for many employees in different areas and on different schedules. They offer both strong security and flexibility.

How Does Fingerprint Access Control Work?

Fingerprint access control works by scanning the unique patterns on your fingertips to confirm your identity. When you enroll, the system makes a secure digital template of your fingerprint’s features, not an image. Our biometric systems use advanced software to make sure recognition is accurate in different situations.

When someone requests access, they place their finger on the scanner, which captures the print and compares it against stored templates. The system grants access only when finding a sufficiently close match, typically within seconds.

We recommend fingerprint systems for high-security areas because fingerprints can’t be shared, stolen, or copied like cards or codes. This makes them the most secure option.

What is the Difference Between Electric Strikes and Magnetic Locks?

Electric strikes and magnetic locks serve the same purpose but operate differently. Electric strikes replace the strike plate in a door frame, electrically releasing the latch when activated while allowing the existing door handle and lock to function normally. Through ZML’s electric strike installations, businesses maintain familiar door operation while adding electronic control.

Magnetic locks use strong electromagnets to keep doors closed, holding with 600 to over 1200 pounds of force. They need power to stay locked and will unlock right away if the power goes out, which is important for fire safety.

We usually suggest electric strikes for regular office doors where you want normal use, and magnetic locks for high-security areas that need strong holding power and quick emergency release.

What are Exit Devices in Access Control?

Exit devices let people leave quickly in an emergency while keeping the building secure at other times. The most common types are crash bars, which open the door when pushed, and push-to-exit buttons that unlock the door electronically. Our solutions make sure you meet fire codes and keep your access control working properly.

Motion detectors (request-to-exit sensors) automatically unlock doors when someone approaches from inside, while door position switches monitor whether doors are properly closed and secured.

These devices are essential for safety because fire codes require that people can exit easily in an emergency. We make sure all exit devices meet local building codes and work smoothly with your access control system.

How Long Do Electronic Locks Last?

Quality electronic locks typically last 10-15 years with proper installation and maintenance, though this varies significantly based on usage frequency, environmental conditions and component quality. Our magnetic lock systems often exceed 15-year lifespans due to their simple electromagnetic design with few moving parts.

Electric strikes generally last 8 to 12 years, while electronic keypads may require keypad replacement every 5 to 8 years due to button wear. Biometric scanners typically operate reliably for 10+ years with periodic cleaning and calibration.

From our experience, professional installation and yearly maintenance help equipment last longer. Doors with heavy use need more frequent service, but good systems give you reliable performance for many years.

Can Access Control Systems be Monitored Remotely?

Yes, modern access control systems can be monitored remotely through cloud-based platforms and mobile applications. These systems provide real-time alerts for unauthorized access attempts, door forced open events, and system malfunctions directly to smartphones or computers. Through our comprehensive security services, businesses gain 24/7 oversight of their security systems from any location.

Remote monitoring lets you see live access logs, manage users, get system updates, and lock or unlock doors from anywhere. Many systems also connect with security cameras so you can check alerts visually.

Our clients especially appreciate remote monitoring after hours, on holidays, and when they have more than one location. It gives them peace of mind and lets them respond quickly, no matter where they are.

Electric Strike vs Magnetic Lock: Which is Better?

Choosing between electric strikes and magnetic locks depends on your security needs and door setup. Electric strikes work with your current door hardware, so you can still use your keys while adding electronic access. They are a good fit for standard office doors where you want things to feel familiar. With our electric strike installations, businesses keep the usual door feel and gain better access control.

Magnetic locks are stronger, holding 600 to over 1200 pounds, and can be used on any type of door. This makes them a better choice for high-security needs or for doors where strikes cannot be installed. They also unlock right away if the power goes out, which helps meet fire safety rules.

At ZML, we usually suggest electric strikes for most businesses because they are easy to use and use less power. We recommend magnetic locks for areas that need the highest security or for doors that are harder to fit with strikes.

Do Electric Strikes Work During Power Outages?

Electric strikes can be set to operate in either fail-safe or fail-secure mode during a power outage. Fail-safe strikes unlock automatically if power fails, so people can exit in an emergency. This setup meets fire code for most situations. Our team installs strikes to ensure they work safely and comply with life-safety rules.

Fail-secure strikes remain locked during power loss, requiring backup power systems or manual keys for access. This configuration is used in high-security applications where maintaining security during outages is critical.

ZML usually sets up business systems with fail-safe operation and backup power. This way, you stay secure and meet safety rules even during long power outages.

How Much Weight Can a Magnetic Lock Hold?

Magnetic locks typically hold between 600 and 1200 pounds of force, with some heavy-duty models exceeding 1500 pounds. The most common commercial magnetic locks provide a holding force of 600 pounds (272 kg), which is sufficient for most business applications. Our magnetic lock systems are selected based on specific door weight, usage frequency and security requirements.

For high-security areas, 1200-pound magnetic locks are often used because they are harder to force open. The lock’s strength stays the same as long as it has power and is installed so the magnet and plate touch properly. perfect contact.

From our experience at ZML, 600-pound locks work well for regular business use. For sensitive areas or busy entrances that need extra protection, we recommend 1200-pound locks.

How Do You Troubleshoot a Magnetic Door Lock?

To troubleshoot a magnetic lock, first check the power supply. Make sure the transformer gives the right voltage (usually 12V or 24V DC) and that all connections are tight. Test the lock’s strength by trying to pull the door open when it should be locked. In our maintenance work, we've found that most problems come from power or alignment issues.

Check that the armature plate lines up with the magnet. Even small gaps can make the lock much weaker. Clean both surfaces to remove any debris, and make sure the door closes fully without sticking or warping.

Check the access control system's connectivity and verify that the lock receives proper release signals. ZML technicians also test backup power systems and examine wiring for damage that could cause intermittent operation.

Electromagnetic Lock vs Electric Strike: Complete Comparison

Electromagnetic locks and electric strikes are used for different security needs and door types. Electromagnetic locks are very strong (600 to over 1200 pounds) and can be used on any door, so they are great for high-security areas. We help businesses choose the right lock based on their security needs and door setup.

Electric strikes work with your current door hardware, so you can still use your keys and add electronic control. They use less power, work with familiar door parts, and are usually cheaper to install on standard doors.

At ZML, we recommend electromagnetic locks for the highest-security areas, glass doors, or tricky installations. Electric strikes are best for regular business doors that see normal use and lower power bills.

Retina Scanner vs Fingerprint: Which Biometric is Better?

Fingerprint scanners typically provide the best balance of security, cost, and user acceptance for most business applications. They offer excellent accuracy (99%+ recognition rates), reasonable costs and users find them familiar and non-invasive. Our biometric access solutions focus primarily on fingerprint technology due to its proven reliability and user acceptance.

Retina scanners are a bit more accurate and very hard to trick, but they cost much more, need users to line up their eyes exactly, and many people find them uncomfortable or too personal.

At ZML, we recommend fingerprint systems for most businesses because they offer strong security at a reasonable price and people like using them. We only suggest retina scanners for the highest-security needs, where the extra cost and complexity are worth it.