Access Readers

Our access solutions are compatible with virtually any type of reader. Whether you prefer robust industrial devices or modern design-led models, Protime controllers can manage multiple protocols at the same time, giving you flexibility across multiple sites, even internationally.

Readers can be mounted directly on a wall or positioned on a stainless steel post near a door, ideal for high-traffic areas or outdoor use.

Employee using a badge to access a building through an access control terminal

Every reader can be connected to myProtime Access, allowing you to:

  • See exactly who used which reader, and when
  • Detect and respond to special events or errors in real time
  • Maintain a complete digital log for audits and local compliance in every region.

With this seamless integration, Protime readers provide the reliability, visibility, and control needed to keep your international organisation secure and efficient.
 

With Protime, I have a win-win relationship. The more functionality they suggest, the more I can improve my performance levels!
Mohammed Agdour
HR Manager at Gerresheimer
Person holding a badge to unlock a door with an access control reader

How do access readers work?

Access readers are the first checkpoint in any secure system. They verify a person’s identity and decide whether to grant or deny entry. The process is simple on the surface: tap a card, scan a fingerprint, or present a face. 

But behind the scenes, several steps happen in seconds. These ensure multi-country security standards are met:

  1. Authentication – The reader scans the presented credential, such as a badge, PIN, fingerprint, or facial pattern.
  2. Data transfer – The reader sends this information securely to the controller.
  3. Verification – The controller checks the credentials against stored permissions (who the person is, what areas they can access, and at what times).
  4. Decision – If the credential is valid, the door unlocks. If not, access is denied.
  5. Logging – Every attempt, successful or failed, is recorded in the system for monitoring, reporting, and compliance.
     

Different reader types (RFID cards, mobile apps, biometrics) all work within this framework. The advantage of Protime readers is that they integrate seamlessly with time registration and workforce planning. For multi-country companies, a single tap not only opens the door but can also log attendance or track shift patterns.

What are the different types of access readers?

Access readers come in different forms, each offering a unique balance of convenience and security. Additionally, the different types suit various European and global security standards. The most common include:

  • Card readers (RFID / proximity): Employees present a badge or keycard to the reader. It’s fast, cost-effective, and easy to manage at scale.
  • PIN code readers: Users enter a personal code on a keypad. No physical card is required, but codes can be shared unless policies are strict.
  • Biometric readers: Fingerprint or facial recognition adds an extra layer of security by verifying the person, not just the credential. Perfect for high-security zones.
  • Mobile access readers: Smartphones or wearables act as digital keys. Staff can use Bluetooth, NFC, or QR codes for a touchless, user-friendly experience.
  • Multi-technology readers: Combine several methods (e.g., card + PIN, or mobile + biometrics) for maximum flexibility and layered protection.

Each option integrates with Protime’s access control system, so you can mix and match across sites, whether nationally or internationally. This way, high-risk areas get tighter security, while day-to-day entry points stay quick and convenient.
 

What are the benefits of access readers?

Access readers are the physical devices that read and verify a credential at the door or entry point. The type of reader you choose depends on the credential technology and the security level required.

Some devices are multi-technology readers, meaning they support several credential types (e.g., smart card + mobile + PIN) to give you flexibility across sites.

The main categories are:

Protime access hardware
  •  Proximity (RFID) readers: These read radio-frequency ID cards or fobs when they’re held near the device. They’re fast, durable, and widely used.
  • Smart card readers: Work with cards containing chips (e.g., MIFARE®, DESFire®). They support stronger encryption than simple RFID, making them more secure.
  • Magstripe readers: Swipe readers that read data stored in a magnetic stripe. Still used in some organisations, but less secure and being phased out
  • Keypad / PIN code readers: A simple reader with a keypad. The credential is the user’s PIN, which is typed in. Often combined with another method for extra security.
  • Biometric readers: Use unique physical traits—like fingerprints, palm prints, or facial recognition—for identity verification. Ideal for high-security areas.
  • Mobile credential readers: Read digital keys stored in smartphones or wearables, typically via Bluetooth, NFC, or QR code. A touchless, modern solution that’s growing fast.
Person unlocking a wireless lock with a badge as part of an access control system

Wireless lock & door handles for access control

Wireless locks and smart door handles make it simple to upgrade security without complex installation. They combine the strength of traditional locks with advanced access control features, delivering flexibility and style. Ideal for the modern European workplace.

Because they are wireless, no drilling or cabling is required. Installation is quick, cost-effective, and minimally disruptive to your workplace. Integrated batteries power up to 300,000 locking cycles, while online connectivity ensures every action can be monitored in real time. Our solutions provide the scalability needed for international growth.

Digital locks are also highly versatile. Beyond opening and closing doors, they support a wide range of smart functions such as time zone control, event management, and door monitoring. Cylinders can be used offline, partially networked, or fully online across multiple countries.

 

Key Advantages

  • Fast installation – no wiring, no disruption.
  • Timeless design – modern look that blends into any environment.
  • Durable materials – robust construction for heavy daily use.
  • Event logging & online monitoring – full visibility of every entry and exit.
  • Drilling protection – added resistance against forced entry.
  • Scalable – from offline use to fully networked control.

Wireless locks and door handles are ideal for organisations that want to strengthen security while maintaining flexibility and design. With Protime, you can manage them through the same intuitive platform that powers your time registration, workforce planning, and visitor management.

Building floor plan showing rooms and access control points

Online monitoring: myProtime Access

Access rights management is most effective when directly linked to your HR data. With myProtime Access, assigning and adjusting rights is simple, ensuring employees only enter the buildings, zones, or surroundings they are authorised to access at the correct times. 

A detailed digital plan of your premises gives you a complete overview of all access points across all your sites. With just one click, you can see:

  • Who entered, and when.

  • Which events or errors occurred.

  • Where maintenance or follow-up is required

  • Ensure compliance with local regional laws.

This real-time monitoring provides full visibility of your security landscape. By combining HR data with access control, myProtime Access helps reduce risk, streamline compliance, and give you total control over movement within your multi-country organisation.
 

Why Choose Protime's Access Hardware?

Protime’s access hardware gives you more than just secure doors. It connects people, places, and processes into one reliable system. Designed for international businesses, it combines flexibility with compliance, making security simple to manage and easy to scale.

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Full Control

Protime puts you fully in charge of who enters, when, and where. By linking working hours and access rules directly to employees, you can create a security setup that adapts to your organisation’s needs.

  • Custom security levels – define different clearance for offices, warehouses, or sensitive areas
  • Time-based access – allow entry only during specific hours, shifts, or periods
  • Integrated HR data – ensure access rights are always aligned with employee status across international locations.

This approach not only strengthens security but also keeps payroll, attendance, and compliance perfectly in sync.
 

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Floor Plan Integration

With Protime, your entire access infrastructure is mapped digitally for maximum visibility.

  • Detailed overview – see in real time who is on-site and where.
  • All access points – track entrances across multiple buildings, sites, or floors.
  • Visual clarity – a simple floor plan view highlights events, errors, and maintenance needs.

By combining real-time monitoring with a visual overview, you get both operational control and strategic insight into how your buildings are being used.
 

Technician installing and configuring access control hardware inside a wall-mounted unit

Access control infrastructure

Protime supports your multi-country organisation with a complete access control infrastructure. From turnstiles and access barriers to gates and security portals, we deliver the hardware and expertise to build a secure, seamless solution tailored to your environment.

As a dedicated European player, we don’t just install equipment. We collaborate with you to design the safest and most efficient integrated system, based on your needs, challenges, and ideas.

With broad experience across industries and a strong international presence, Protime understands the demands of modern businesses. Many of our customers operate in multiple countries, and our standard solutions are built to adapt to fast-changing regulations and business strategies.

The result: an infrastructure that is robust, compliant, and future-proof, giving you confidence that your people, assets, and operations are always protected.
 

Want to secure your workplace with reliable access control?
Our hardware ensures safe, simple, and efficient entry management.