1. AUTOMATING ACCESS CONTROL

Sometimes it’s a new system installation. Other times it’s an integration with an existing access control system. In either case, we’ve seen a similar scenario where companies are manually entering and maintaining a large number of employees or visitors to gain building or office access.  Most businesses don’t realize that this process can be made more efficient and accurate.  Data Link works with these customers to integrate their HR or active directory systems, fully automating the process of creating and updating cardholders, which leads to a better “source of truth.”  When we complete the access upgrade, employees and visitors automatically get assigned access by the company. It also makes it much easier to cut off access if an employee is terminated, with removal of that person’s card access. This not only saves time across the board but leaves less room for error.

2.  THROW AWAY THE KEY

Data Link worked with a financial institution in Paducah, KY that processes financial transactions. They wanted to add audit controls for their server racks.  Data Link installed electronic locks on the server cabinets that not only required a valid card read, but also made the user select a button to say whether they were accessing the server for logging or auditor purposes. This provided the company with the additional logging and security required by federal auditors.

3. TEMP CHECKS TO TIME CLOCKS

During the height of COVID, a Sr. Manager of Physical Security at a food production company contacted Data Link. The company has factories across the Midwest and along the east coast.  They wanted to know if there was a way to log an employee in before their shift started, but after they cleared the temperature check.  There is! We used the “Competency” feature of their existing access control system to activate a dedicated reader. Once the employee is cleared by a nurse, the nurse scans the employee badge.  This resets the competency for 15 hours, allowing them to enter the facility and start work.

4. CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’VE BEEN RANDOMLY SELECTED…

A paper manufacturing plant in western Kentucky contacted Data Link to help them randomize drug screenings. Data Link was able to accomplish this through their access control system.  The system randomly selects a cardholder(s) in intervals configured in the access control system.  When the randomly selected person scans to enter the building, the card reader screen informs them to report to the nurse for a random drug test. While they’re getting their test, all card access is disabled.  Once the test is done, their access and test confirmation are completed by the nurse who scans a dedicated card reader.  All employees can exit the facility whether or not they complete the drug test.

5. PIGGYBACKS AND TAILGATES

A Director of Security at a national logistics company with offices in 48 states across the US was having issues with employees going through the turnstiles to enter a facility and then passing their badge back through the fence allowing another person to enter.  It wasn’t only done for fellow employees. It was also done for visitors who hadn’t been cleared.  This is commonly called piggybacking or tailgating. Which sounds fun but is a common issue at companies and often seen as harmless.

Data Link enabled anti-passback features in the access control system. Now, if an employee passes their badge back through the fence, not only does the badge not allow access through the turnstile a second time, but it also notifies security staff of the attempt.

6. No Power? No Problem! Data Link Keeps Security Running 24/7

When it comes to installing customized video surveillance, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring power—especially in remote or low-electricity areas. That was exactly the case when a recent customer needed cameras installed along their back fence line, where traditional power sources were unavailable.

Data Link stepped up with a smart, tailored solution: a combination of wireless connectivity, battery units that charge overnight, and solar panels that recharge during the day. But we didn’t stop there. Each power unit was custom designed not only to support the specific surveillance equipment but also to match the geographic location’s daylight conditions, ensuring reliable, long-lasting battery life.
The result? A seamless, uninterrupted security system with multiple days of backup power, minimizing downtime and maximizing peace of mind. When power is a challenge, Data Link delivers!

READ THE CASE STUDY

7. Green Light, Go! How Data Link Streamlined Terminal Access for a Logistics Giant

Managing access for semi-trucks and trailers at busy shipping terminals can be a logistical headache. One of our national logistics customers needed a smarter, more efficient way to control which trucks could enter their terminals—and when.

Enter Data Link. Leveraging their existing Gallagher access control system, we created a seamless solution. Since all trucks were already equipped with transit RFID tags, we integrated Nedap readers to capture truck IDs as they approached the gate. From there, the Gallagher system worked in real time with the customer’s in-house programmers to determine which trucks had the green light for entry during their scheduled arrival windows.

The result? If a truck was pre-authorized at that time and location, the system automatically activated a green traffic light and opened the gate—no manual approvals, no delays, just smooth, secure access. With Data Link’s expertise, this logistics powerhouse now has a streamlined, automated entry process that keeps operations moving without a hitch!

8. Keeping All Babies Safely on Board

When a major Kentucky healthcare provider built a new hospital, they installed a state-of-the-art infant protection system to keep their littlest patients safe. The only problem? It operated as a standalone system, separate from their broader security infrastructure.

That’s where Data Link came in. We customized their access control system to seamlessly integrate the infant protection system into their LenelS2 platform. Now, whenever the infant protection system is activated, access to restricted areas is automatically denied—while still allowing authorized personnel entry where needed.

The result? A fully integrated, automated security solution that ensures the highest level of protection for the hospital’s newborns—because when it comes to safety, every detail matters! System has worked flawlessly.

READ THE CASE STUDY

9. Eyes on the Emergency: How Data Link Synced Security Cameras with Call Boxes

When a large healthcare customer built a new hospital, they needed more than just security—they needed a system that could respond in real time. Data Link was brought in to install GAI-Tronics emergency call boxes and Axis security cameras powered by Milestone. But the customer had one special request: whenever a call box was activated, all nearby PTZ cameras on the roof should automatically turn, zoom in, and give their command center a clear view of the situation.

Challenge accepted! By leveraging the advanced features of these different technologies, Data Link made it happen. Now, whenever someone presses an emergency call box, security staff not only hear the call but also see exactly what’s happening—helping them respond faster and more effectively.

The result? A smarter, more connected security system that ensures help is always just a call (and a camera turn) away!

10. License to Park: How Data Link Turned License Plates into Digital Badges

A medical research firm with a busy campus parking garage asked Data Link to provide a smoother way to grant access—no keycards, no codes, just drive up and go. Instead, they wanted to use the license plate of the vehicle as an access control credential.

Leveraging an existing camera that was already capturing license plates, we supercharged it with video analytics to not only record plate numbers but actually read them. From there, the system sent the plate number to the access control platform, treating it like a digital badge. If the plate matched a registered cardholder with garage access, the gate opened automatically—no fumbling for badges or waiting in line.

Now they have a seamless, hands-free parking experience that’s as smart as it is secure. Because when it comes to innovation, Data Link always finds the drive!