Salto Systems’ ProAccess SPACE software was the perfect system to replace the old, outdated existing system. Utilising a combination between XS 2.0 Wall Readers, and Salto XS4 Original+, we have completely transformed this prestigious student accommodation in Hammersmith, London

Case Study: Upgrading Legacy XPlan Access Control to Salto Systems

Project overview: Modernising site security with Salto ProAccess Space

READ Access Ltd was appointed to replace an outdated XPlan access control system with a modern Salto Systems solution, delivering improved access management, reliable operation and a platform ready for future security enhancements.

The project involved replacing 15 existing access control controllers and wall readers across the site, alongside two additional keypad readers serving specific access requirements. Despite challenges involving automated entrance doors and existing network infrastructure, our three-man installation team successfully installed and commissioned the new system, leaving the site team delighted with the result.

The Challenge: Replacing an Outdated Access Control System

The existing XPlan access control system had reached the point where an upgrade was required. The objective was to transition to a modern, maintainable access control platform without compromising the site’s existing entrance arrangements or day-to-day operations.

READ Access Ltd needed to replace the legacy equipment while accommodating several site-specific requirements, including:

• 15 existing controllers and wall readers requiring replacement.
• Two additional keypad readers supporting access for council refuse workers and entry to the communal bicycle store.
• A complex main entrance door incorporating timed access, free egress during selected hours, passive infrared (PIR) detection and overhead automated door operators.
• Existing network infrastructure issues that needed to be resolved to support the new access control system.

The project required careful planning, technical coordination and thorough commissioning to ensure the new system worked in harmony with the site’s existing door hardware and access arrangements.

The Solution: Salto Systems with On-Premises ProAccess Space

READ Access Ltd selected a Salto Systems access control solution managed through Salto ProAccess Space, an on-premises access management platform.

The installation replaced the existing XPlan equipment with a modern access control infrastructure designed to support the site’s current requirements while providing a foundation for future development.

Replacement of 15 Controllers and Wall Readers

Our team replaced 15 existing access control controllers and wall readers across the site, upgrading the installed hardware as part of the transition away from the legacy XPlan system.

The replacement was carefully coordinated to ensure the new equipment integrated with the site’s access points and intended access arrangements.

Additional Keypad Access for Specific Users

Two additional keypad readers were incorporated into the project to meet specific operational needs:

• Council refuse access: Providing a dedicated keypad entry point for council refuse workers.
• Communal bicycle store: Supporting controlled access to the communal bike storage entrance.

These additions addressed the site’s practical access requirements, helping accommodate different users and areas within the property.

Overcoming the Main Entrance Door Challenges

One of the most technically demanding elements of the project was the main entrance door.

Unlike a straightforward access-controlled door, the entrance operated through several interconnected functions, including a timed access arrangement, free egress during selected hours, PIR-based detection and overhead automated door operators.

Ensuring that these elements worked correctly alongside the new Salto access control system was essential.

READ Access Ltd carefully addressed the interaction between the access control equipment and the existing door operation requirements. Particular attention was given to the timed access schedule and the relationship between access control, PIR detection and the automated door operators.

This required a considered installation and commissioning process to ensure the entrance continued to operate in accordance with the site’s intended access and egress arrangements.

The result was a modernised access control installation designed around the practical requirements of the existing building, rather than treating the entrance as a standard door replacement.

Resolving Network Infrastructure Issues

The project also presented significant challenges with the site’s existing network infrastructure.

As the new system was being installed, it became clear that network-related issues needed to be addressed to support a successful implementation.

Rather than allowing these problems to compromise the project, READ Access Ltd worked proactively with the company’s external IT provider ahead of commissioning. This early collaboration helped identify and resolve the issues, allowing the installation to progress towards completion.

The project demonstrated the importance of coordination between access control specialists and external IT teams, particularly when introducing modern security systems into buildings with established network infrastructure.

By addressing these challenges collaboratively, READ Access Ltd helped establish the conditions required for the new Salto ProAccess Space system to operate as intended.

A Future-Ready Access Control Platform

A key benefit of the Salto Systems installation is its potential to support future security enhancements.

The new system provides a platform for further development, including the planned integration of Salto XS4 Face facial recognition technology.

This future upgrade will provide an opportunity to introduce facial recognition-based access control, subject to the final system design, compatibility requirements and implementation planning.

By moving away from the legacy XPlan system, the site has taken an important step towards a more adaptable access control infrastructure that can evolve alongside its future security requirements.

For building managers and property operators, planning for future technologies during an access control upgrade can help support longer-term investment decisions and reduce the need to revisit the entire system as requirements change.

Installation and Commissioning by READ Access Ltd

The project was delivered by a dedicated three-man READ Access Ltd installation team.

From replacing the existing controllers and readers to addressing the challenges associated with the main entrance and network infrastructure, the team worked through the installation and commissioning requirements to deliver the new Salto Systems solution.

The successful delivery depended on a combination of technical expertise, advance planning and effective collaboration with the external IT provider.

Following installation and commissioning, the site team was delighted with the outcome.

Their positive response reflects the importance of delivering access control upgrades that address not only the technical requirements of a building, but also the needs of the people who manage and use it every day.

The Results: A Modernised Access Control System

The completed project delivered a significant upgrade to the site’s access control infrastructure.

Key outcomes included:

• 15 controllers and wall readers replaced, upgrading the existing XPlan installation.
• Two additional keypad readers installed for council refuse workers and the communal bicycle store.
• Complex entrance arrangements accommodated, including timed access, free egress, PIR detection and overhead automated door operators.
• Network issues resolved through proactive collaboration with the company’s external IT provider.
• Salto ProAccess Space implemented on-premises, providing a modern platform for access management.
• Future expansion supported, with Salto XS4 Face facial recognition identified as a planned integration.
• A delighted site team, following the installation and commissioning process.

The project highlights READ Access Ltd’s ability to manage access control upgrades involving legacy equipment, complex door automation and challenging existing infrastructure.

Conclusion: Expert Access Control Upgrades from READ Access Ltd

Replacing a legacy access control system involves more than swapping hardware. It requires a clear understanding of the building, its users, its door operation requirements and the infrastructure supporting the system.

Through the replacement of the outdated XPlan installation with Salto Systems and on-premises ProAccess Space, READ Access Ltd delivered a modernised access control solution tailored to the site’s operational needs.

By combining a three-man installation team, careful commissioning and close collaboration with the external IT provider, we overcame the project’s key challenges and delivered an outcome that left the site team delighted.

With the potential for future integration of Salto XS4 Face facial recognition technology, the site is also well positioned to explore further developments in access control.

Looking to upgrade an outdated access control system?

READ Access Ltd can help you replace legacy access control equipment, modernise your security infrastructure and plan for future access technologies.

Contact READ Access Ltd to discuss your access control upgrade project.

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