SMCCCD District

FAQs about Electronic Access Controls

New or remodeled buildings now need card keys or key fobs or an access code to open the doors after hours. Why is this necessary?

As part of our efforts to provide a safe and secure teaching, learning and working environment, electronic access controls supplement the mechanical key system. Instead of using a traditional key, doors that have been outfitted with electronic access controls require an electronic key (e-key) to gain access. In a few rare instances, an e-key is not necessary but a code must be entered on the keypad to gain entry.

What are e-keys?

E-keys are electronic keys. They take the form of either a card or a fob.

Card Key

Key Fob

E-keys can be held in proximity to a card reader to allow the card reader to “read” the e-key, identify the e-key holder, and either grant or deny access to the door based on previously programmed access privileges.

What are card readers?

Card readers are devices mounted on the wall adjacent to a door that is electronically controlled. The reader “reads” the card key or fob that has been presented within a couple of inches of the reader to identify the e-key holder and either grant or deny access to the door based on previously programmed access privileges.


Regular Card Reader		Keypad Card Reader

Do I need to use an e-key to enter a building or room?

During regular College operating hours, doors are generally unlocked either automatically by the electronic access controls system, or by College Security or Facilities personnel. Generally, College buildings are unlocked for public access Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 10:30pm. A traditional or e-key is only required after hours to gain access to locked buildings or rooms.

There’s no slot on the reader to slide or insert my key card. What do I do?

Our readers are proximity readers, meaning the e-key should be presented in close proximity to the reader in order to gain access to a door for which your have access privileges. The e-key does not need to make direct contact with the reader in order to be read.

The elevator is locked at night. How can I use it?

External elevators (elevators that are outside of the perimeter doors of a building) are locked after hours to maintain safety and security. For buildings that have electronic access controls, the elevator can be accessed after hours by presenting an e-key to the adjacent card reader to activate the elevator.

How do I get an e-key?

E-keys are issued following the same request and approval process as a traditional key. Please complete a Key Request Form and submit it to the Facilities Office at your campus. Print the form and fill it out, noting whether you want a fob or a card. It is your choice whether you get a card or a fob. Instructions for submitting the request and getting the card or fob are on page two of the form. Please be sure the form has the required signatures – incomplete requests will delay distribution.

What if I lose my e-key?

If you misplace your e-key, please notify your Facilities Office immediately. Your old e-key will be deactivated in order to maintain safety and security, and a new e-key can be issued to you to replace the lost or stolen e-key.

Are the key fobs fragile?

No. Fobs and cards are made of ABS plastic that can only be damaged under extreme conditions. Treat them the same way as you would a traditional key.

How do I change the battery in the fob?

There are no batteries in either the fobs or cards and no maintenance is required.

Why do some readers have keypads?

In a few rare instances, a code that is input in the keypad card reader will provide access to the electronically monitored door (without presentation of an e-key). If you are assigned privileges to a keypad card reader that does not require an e-key, you will be given an access code and training on use of the keypad.

In most instances where a keypad card reader exists, the keypad in conjunction with an e-key provides additional functionality that is only required by certain people. If you are assigned additional functionality, you will be given training on use of the keypad.

For those of you who have access to electronically monitored interior spaces with keypad card readers, follow these instructions for using the keypad functions on the card readers:

To unlock a door to enter a space:	Present e-key in front of reader. The door will unlock long enough for you to enter the space – then it will relock. You can exit through the door freely, but the door will be locked from the outside.
To keep a door “unlocked” while the space is occupied:	Check with your Division Office for the code. After you have entered the code, present your e-key in front of the reader (be sure that your e-key is not near the reader when you are pressing the keys on the pad as it can confuse the device).
To deactivate the door “unlock” function:	Check with your Division Office for the code. After you have entered the code, present your e-key in front of the reader (be sure that your e-key is not near the reader when you are pressing the keys on the pad as it can confuse the device).