Card
An identification device assigned to an individual that identifies that individual. Typically, it is the size of a credit card. See Access Card, Key Tag.

Card Access
A type of access control system using encoded cards and card readers to identify cardholders and determine if access may be granted. See Cardholder.

Card Encoder
A device used to encode data onto an access card.

Card Reader
A device that retrieves information stored on an access card and transmits that information to a controller.

Cardholder
An individual who has been assigned an access control card or tag.

Chip-In-Card
See Smart Card.

COM Port
A hardware device that allows a computer to communicate with external devices.

Control Center
A central location in a secure area where access and alarm sub-systems are supervised and security personnel are located.

Control Point
An exit or entry point such as a door, turnstile, or gate, where access is controlled.

Controller
A Printed circuit board that controls the access to a secure area. The controller can be configured to determine which doors and at what times cardholders are granted access to secure areas. Based on that, the controller will manage lock/unlock doors, sound alarms, and communicate status to a host computer.