What component is essential for receiving signals from RFID tags in electronic access control?

The essential component for receiving signals from RFID tags in electronic access control is the sensor reader. In an RFID-based system, the sensor reader is specifically designed to communicate with RFID tags, which contain unique identifiers. When an RFID tag comes within the range of this sensor, the reader emits radio waves that power the tag, allowing it to transmit its stored data back to the reader. This process enables the system to authenticate access based on the information received from the RFID tags.

While the access control panel plays a crucial role in managing permissions and controlling access, it relies on the data that the sensor reader collects. The data storage unit is responsible for storing information, such as user credentials and logs, but it does not interact directly with the RFID tags. An alarm system is unrelated to the direct reception of signals from RFID tags; instead, it is typically used for security alerts and notifications following unauthorized access events. Hence, the sensor reader is the key component that ensures effective communication with RFID tags within an electronic access control system.