What role do access control panels play in the overall system?

Access control panels serve a crucial function in electronic access control systems by receiving input from various readers, such as card readers or biometric devices, and controlling the locking mechanisms of secured areas. When a user presents their credentials—like a keycard or fingerprint—the access control panel processes this information to determine whether to grant or deny access based on pre-defined permissions programmed into the system. This essential function ensures that only authorized individuals can enter or exit specified locations, thereby maintaining the security and integrity of the premises.

Other roles tied to access control systems, such as logging access events or providing biometric verification, complement the capabilities of access control panels but do not define their primary purpose as clearly as the ability to control locks based on input from readers.