Self-contained programmable terminal for security systems

Abstract

A security system is disclosed which utilizes plural remote terminals for controlling access at plural locations throughout a secured area or building. Each of these remote terminals is capable of independent functioning, and includes a memory for storing plural independent identification numbers which define the personnel who will be granted access. These numbers stored in the terminal memories may be different from terminal to terminal, or may be uniform throughout the system, and may be the same as a list stored at a central processing location. Thus, access may be limited to the same group of individuals regardless of whether it is provided by a central memory list or a remote memory list. The remote memories provide total memory flexibility, so that the deletion of identification numbers from the list does not reduce the memory size. The memory, in addition to identification numbers, stores data defining real time access limitations for each of the individuals who will be granted access, so that flexibility in time of day access control is provided on a programmable basis.