ACTAtek's Combination Unit device uses optical technology to read finger and thumb prints, which it then transfers into templates and stores on the system. This comprises a central unit and several slave units. The central unit can communicate with the rest of the slave units through the network and transfer the data.
This product can be used both for secure physical access to buildings or rooms and as a time and attendance device with an easy deployment structure.
We found it to be fairly simple to deploy and straightforward to install. The initial installation consists of entering in the network information on the device using the built-in administrator account.
Once the network information is entered, additional configuration is done through a web interface. This allows for adding and managing users, as well as other functions such as getting reports and setting various options.
ACTAtek can provide both biometrics and RFID smartcard authentication for access control, time attendance and payroll systems (hence the 'combination unit'). A choice of smartcard readers is offered.
All communication throughout the system is SSL-encrypted, with all software built in. While customers can build an expansive system, it can be used in a standalone mode. It also provides SDK for third party application integration via SOAP, SNMP and LDAP support.
Documentation is provided as several PDF documents on a CD. An easy-to-follow user manual provides an in-depth look at installing and configuring the device, using many screenshots and step-by-step instructions. A short quick-start guide describes the initial configuration steps to get the device working quickly.
ACTAtek offers 24-hour phone, email and live chat support five days a week during the warranty period of the device. After this expires, customers can purchase support for a fee.* Also included is a web support portal where customers can access a knowledgebase and FAQ section.
At a cost just shy of £946 per unit, this product provides an affordable system that offers a lot of functionality for the price, winning it our Best Buy award.
* In the US. Contact regional offices for local support details.