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Turnstile Access Controller

Turnstile access Controller is a control module designed for OEM and aftermarket integration into turnstiles for access control applications. It is part of a custom-designed Ethernet network with a connection to the ticket server.


The Turnstile Controller Module is an access control device designed for integration into all types of turnstiles. The device controls the opening of the turnstile gate. It supports two USB barcode scanners, one RS-232 barcode scanner, and an RFID card reader. The device is custom-designed to connect to the ticket server via a local Ethernet network. It supports 10/100BASE-T Ethernet and DHCP client protocol for network addressing. An external keyboard can be connected for manual input of unreadable tickets. An RGB LED array provides visual feedback and event indication. An external buzzer is supported, with different melodies programmable for each event. An integrated real-time clock and calendar store timestamps for event logging, with LOG files saved on an SD card. An additional configuration server enables remote control of all settings, firmware updates, and direct command execution. The available 64 Mbit memory allows storage of a local ticket list, enabling access without ticket server confirmation. This feature enhances overall system reliability, ensuring the device remains fully functional in autonomous mode during network disruptions. A 2.8" TFT LCD display is supported for image output, including event titles, scanned information, and access granted/denied messages. The device firmware is based on the FreeRTOS real-time operating system, with tightly integrated USB Host and Ethernet drivers, an embedded TCP/IP stack, and dedicated firmware modules. The LCD display drivers are custom-designed and integrated with the graphics library, enabling animations and user interaction via a resistive touch panel.

✓ 2xUSB barcode readers, for ticket scanning;
✓ 1xRS232 barcode reader for optional legacy barcode scanner support;
✓ 10/100BT ETHERNET interface for ticket server connection;
✓ Supports external keyboard for hand input of non-readable tickets barcodes;
✓ Supports RGB LEDs array with flexible color messages, controlled by the ticket server;
✓ Supports 125KHz RFID card reader for stored in memory daily access;
✓ Supports 2.8" color TFT display for image and animation outputs;
✓ Integrated 64mbit memory allows storing offline ticket list;
✓ SD card support with FAT32, used for configuration, LOG storage and secure firmware update;
✓ Supports external buzzer with simple melodies for sound feedback during access events;
✓ Firmware concept, based on FreeRTOS real time operating system;
✓ Custom design display driver and integrated graphical framework;
✓ Tightly coupled ETHERNET, USB host driver, integrated TCP/IP stack;
✓ Optional user input, using LCD resistive touch panel;
✓ Custom design communication protocol for connection to the ticket server;
✓ Additional internet connection to configuration server for direct control of the device, firmware update over the internet;

Configuration Server

The configuration server enables remote control of devices, remote configuration of all configurable parameters, and firmware updates over the air. The firmware update process allows updating all integrated non-volatile memory, including the real-time clock and calendar backup SRAM memory. The firmware update procedure is fully encrypted and supports controlled updates for specific devices with specific firmware versions. The update files are downloaded to the SD card interface and then used during the update process. The configuration server also manages the update of images on the LCD display, which are shown during access events. Additionally, the server integrates a database for storing the hierarchical structure of users and groups across multiple levels. All turnstiles at the specific object, group, or company level can be controlled simultaneously.

✓ Provides WEB interface for easy connection from the users side;
✓ Provides socket interface for connection to the turnstiles;
✓ Implements database for users and group credentials storage;
✓ Provides functionality to modify all turnstile settings;
✓ Provides functionality for check all events LOG files;
✓ Functionality for set offline barcode list;
✓ Direct control of the turnstile gate, possibility for emergency opening all gates at object;
✓ Functionality for setting display pictures and configure display behavior for each access event;
✓ Provides functionality for secure firmware update of all non-volatile memories in the controller, including the battery backup SRAM;

Provided services

✓ Design prove-of-concept setup for the system and in-field test with the selected turnstile;
✓ Schematic design, based on the selected key components, PDF export for customer's review;
✓ PCB design, pcb mechanical integration in the sellected device enclosure;
✓ Production of first revision prototypes, order PCBs and components, organizing PCB and device assembly;
✓ Custom design of the communication protocol with the ticket server, create complete protocol specification and integrate with the ticket server software;
✓ Firmware design. Design of basic driver firmware modules, design of application level firmware, in circuit debug and testing. Hardware and firmware optimization;
✓ Design of the remote control server, based on WEB users interface and TCP socket connection for the devices interface;
✓ Design and providing of complete user's guide documentation for the system, firmware update, device settings;
✓ Manufacture of 20pcs of devices, organizing PCBs and components, assembly and final production of the devices;
✓ In-field installation in turnstiles and long term tests with the ticket server;