Third Millennium Systems Ltd - Experts & Thought Leaders

Third Millennium, a provider of access control solutions and part of HID, announces the launch of new RXQR and RXQRK readers — multi-technology access-control devices that integrate high-security RFID card and QR code credentials into a single, elegant unit. Designed to simplify visitor and contractor management, and support both legacy and modern communication protocols, the RXQR range is part of Third Millennium’s RX Series, delivering an advanced yet cost-effective solution for today’s evolving access control environments. High security RFID card reading The RXQR combines high security RFID card reading and QR code scanning in one compact device. The RXQRK adds a keypad option for organizations requiring an additional layer of authentication using PIN verification for out-of-hours or high-security access. “QR codes have existed for decades, but their role in access control has accelerated dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic,” explains Steve Greenaway, Third Millennium’s Business Development Manager. “As many organizations have reduced or eliminated staffed reception areas all together, QR code-based access has become a practical, contact-free and far more economical way to manage entry.” Access-control systems Traditionally, organizations would have required two separate readers on turnstiles or walls at every entry point: one for staff RFID access cards and another for visitor QR codes. This meant dual installation costs, separate cabling and double the maintenance burden. The RXQR range eliminates this duplication entirely. A single reader now handles both card and QR scanning — transmitting data through the same door controller ports to access-control systems, with both models supporting Clock and Data, Wiegand and OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) connectivity. Proprietary access control systems “It’s a simple concept offering huge efficiency and financial gains,” says Greenaway. “You’re halving the number of devices, halving the installation work and simplifying ongoing maintenance. And obviously saving money since you no longer need two readers at every door.” In addition to its integrated QR capability, the RXQR readers support a full range of high-frequency card technologies including: MIFARE® Classic, MIFARE® DESFire® and LEGIC technologies. This makes them fully interoperable with modern access control systems that support open standard smartcards, with DESFire and LEGIC technologies providing the latest advanced cryptographic security comparable to proprietary access control systems. “Third Millennium has always been about openness and interoperability,” adds Greenaway. “By supporting both MIFARE and LEGIC technologies along with Clock and Data, Wiegand and OSDP, the RXQR readers let customers work within their existing infrastructure, without door controllers having to be changed which just adds extra cost.” Beyond its technical performance, the RXQR range continues Third Millennium’s commitment to elegant design and feature blue LED lights on each unit. Multi-tenanted buildings The RXQRK model integrates a keypad to support two-factor authentication (card + PIN). During normal office hours, users simply present a card or QR credential. Outside those hours or in high-security areas, a PIN is required for additional verification — ensuring lost or stolen cards cannot be misused after hours. This makes the RXQRK ideal for multi-tenanted buildings, data centres and facilities with layered security policies. “While mobile credentials continue to gain traction, QR codes remain the simplest and most cost-efficient option for contractors and visitors,” explains Greenaway. “Unlike app-based credentials which have a licence cost, QR codes can be produced and managed by many enterprise access control systems. Offering temporary access, they’re virtually free to issue, disposable and don’t require visitors or contractors to download an app or create an account either.”

Designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom (UK) by Third Millennium, the new GovPass compliant card readers offer a multi-technology solution, with either Wiegand or OSDP communications. GovPass compliant RX reader range The new GovPass compliant RX reader range provides the end users with the ability to migrate from legacy systems and cards to the new standard seamlessly. GovPass has been introduced by the UK Government, in order to standardize access control across all government departments. Third Millennium are pleased to be able to support this initiative and are able to provide a UK-manufactured card reader solution that is suitable for integration with all standard access control systems.

When Hall & Kay Security was asked by the London Borough of Hackney to provide a state-of-the-art access control system, they turned to Third Millennium for card readers. A networked system covering council offices, care centers, libraries, youth hubs, and the town hall, to name just a few of the 42 council-run facilities, are all fitted with the highly secure RX280 reader, with the Third Millennium Secure Envelope technology. Advanced access and visitor management system With over 640 readers and 10,000 cards, the readers and cards not only control the main points of access but provide ‘follow-me’ printing, barrier control, and swing lane control at the Council headquarters. A recent upgrade to the swing lanes was part of a security upgrade advised by the London Anti-Terror Branch and includes advanced visitor management and an extensive lock-down system. Upgraded technology Their cutting-edge reader technology offers great performance and reliability, and allows for future upgrades" Ian McGarry - Contract Manager for Hall & Kay, said, “Working with Third Millennium, we were able to provide the high level of security required at a very competitive price. Their cutting-edge reader technology offers great performance and reliability, and allows for future upgrades.” “It’s aesthetically pleasing too, which is always a bonus. Our customer is very happy with all aspects of the design and delivery, and we are sure the system will expand as security needs change constantly”. Multi-technology readers Third Millennium’s Business Development Manager, Steve Greenaway, commented, “We were delighted to be asked to work on this prestigious project by Hall & Kay. It’s great to see a project of this size run so smoothly, and it has paved the way with other London Borough Councils to look at the same solution.” “The beauty of our Multi-Technology readers is that we can work in most cases with the existing end-user cards, and provide a secure migration path for the future”.

The healthcare industry faces unique and significant security challenges. Healthcare security professionals must balance an open, welcoming environment for patients and visitors with the need to protect valuable assets and personnel in a high-stress, 24/7 setting. These requirements direct the physical security technologies deployed in medical facilities. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the unique aspects of the healthcare market, and how should the physical security industry adapt?