Gladstone360: Access Control Pre-Reqs

To successfully install the Gladstone360 Access Control Windows Service, the following prerequisites should be considered:

Ensure that the API URL and all relevant folder and file paths are whitelisted. Take into account access to the API URL from the PC as well as any firewalls or proxy servers that may be in place. This step is crucial to allow seamless communication and data exchange between the access control system and Gladstone360 API.

Allow communication over port 443 on the PC. This port is used for secure web communications (HTTPS) and is required for accessing and managing the access control system. Enabling communication on this port ensures a secure and reliable connection between the PC and the Gladstone360 API.

Grant the ability to upload or copy the Gladstone360 Access service installation file, FTDI driver (used to convert the USB port on the PC to a virtual communication port) and the communications test port application to the PC. This will facilitate the installation process and allow for testing the communication between the access control system and the PC. It is important to ensure that the necessary files and tools are readily available for successful deployment and configuration.

Arrange for remote access to the PC attached to the Access Control Communications Box for the Gladstone Engineers. This can be achieved through third-party applications such as WebEx or TeamViewer. However, Microsoft Teams cannot be used as it may lack the required functionalities. Remote access enables engineers to perform necessary tasks, troubleshoot issues, and provide support without physical presence.

Provide engineers with a login account that has the necessary rights and permissions to install the Windows Service, start and stop the Windows Service, create folders, and update the service configuration file. This access is crucial for proper installation and configuration of the Gladstone360 Access Control Windows Service.

Note that the default user running behind the Windows service is the Network Service account. However, if this account does not have internet access and the necessary permissions to communicate with the com port, a new user account will need to be created. The new account should have the rights and permissions to access the Gladstone360 API URL and communicate with the com port. It is essential to verify and configure the user account settings to enable the access control system to function correctly.

Ensure that a minimum of two preconfigured active membership cards or fobs are available. These cards or fobs will be used to test the access control system. By having preconfigured cards or fobs ready, the system can be properly evaluated for functionality and performance.

Ensure that staff members are knowledgeable about how to disable the Access Control override. This knowledge is important during the testing phase as this will need to be disabled to confirm functionality.

Designate a staff member who will be available to test access control by tapping the card on the reader. This testing should be scheduled at a suitable time. During the testing period, the turnstile or gate override should be switched off to lock the gates, ensuring that users cannot enter the area. This validation process will help confirm the system's functionality and identify any potential issues or improvements.

By addressing these prerequisites, the installation and operation of the access control system can be effectively implemented while ensuring security, functionality, and user satisfaction.

Gladstone360 Access Control Sequence Diagram

In the sequence diagram below, each step is represented by a lifeline (vertical line) and the interactions between the lifelines are depicted using arrows.