Videx Exclusive: Innovation, practicality and compliance

Videx reports that the ERA Series is bringing NFC contactless technology to the door entry industry.

The ERA Series Door Station, particularly the ERA23V model, represents a major advancement in door entry systems and is developed by Videx Electronics S.p.A., an Italy-based leader in access control and door entry solutions – with over 35 years of expertise.

Notably, Videx is implementing full-fledged near field communication (NFC) technology into a door entry device, setting a new standard for secure, user-friendly access control.

By leveraging contactless reading through mobile devices via the Videx Virtual Fob App, the ERA23V delivers a scalable solution for residential and commercial environments.

This analysis explores the ERA Series Door Station within the context of NFC-based access control, emphasising the Virtual Fob App’s role, the system’s features and its significance in the industry.

A transformative technology

NFC is a short-range wireless technology that enables secure data exchange between devices within a few centimetres.

In access control, NFC facilitates contactless authentication using smartphones, key fobs or cards with embedded NFC chips. Unlike traditional key-based systems or older proximity technologies like RFID, NFC offers heightened security through encrypted communication, protecting credentials against cloning or interception.

The ability to use smartphones as access credentials, facilitated by apps like the Videx Virtual Fob App, is transforming door entry, providing convenience, scalability and also potential integration with smart technologies.

NFC-based systems are increasingly adopted in residential complexes, offices, public facilities and educational institutions, driven by the global access control market’s demand for contactless solutions that align with modern security and lifestyle needs.

Pioneering full-fledged NFC integration

The ERA23V – part of Videx Electronics’ ERA Series – is a video entry panel built on the VX2300 2-wire bus video system, designed for versatility in residential and commercial settings.

Incorporating full-fledged NFC technology, the ERA23V supports up to 2000 users, enabling contactless access via NFC-enabled smartphones or key fobs.

The Videx Virtual Fob App is central to this innovation, transforming smartphones into virtual access credentials.

Users can authenticate their identity by holding their NFC-enabled mobile device near the ERA23V’s reader, initiating secure, contactless reading that eliminates the need for physical fobs or keys.

This reduces risks associated with lost or duplicated credentials, enhancing security while streamlining experiences.

This is valuable in multi-user environments, such as apartment buildings, office complexes or gated communities, where managing large user bases efficiently is critical.

ERA23V complements NFC capabilities with a built-in keypad supporting up to 400 programmable access codes, offering multiple authentication methods to accommodate user preferences.

Design and installation advantages

The ERA23V combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Its slim 96mm-wide profile, encased in a durable die-cast aluminium frame (IK09 rated), fits standard 100mm posts, making it suitable for diverse environments, from modern villas and residential complexes to commercial buildings.

A high-definition CMOS camera ensures clear video quality, even in low-light conditions.

The two-wire bus system simplifies installation by reducing wiring complexity compared to legacy multi-wire setups, making it ideal for retrofitting buildings or upgrading access control systems.

The ERA23V’s compatibility with the entire VX2300 range ensures integration with other Videx components, supporting scalability for systems ranging from single entrances to multi-entrance complexes.

The Virtual Fob App enhances the ERA23V’s versatility by enabling contactless access through smartphones, complementing traditional fobs and keypad codes.

Additional features further enhance functionality, positioning the ERA23V as a solution for modern door entry needs.

Significance in the door entry industry

The global access control market is favouring NFC technology due to its secure encryption and smartphone compatibility, which aligns with the prevalence of mobile-based authentication.

The Virtual Fob App’s integration with mobile ecosystems aligns with the trend toward smart devices.

Despite its strengths, NFC-based systems like the ERA23V face challenges, such as dependency on NFC-compatible devices (which may exclude users with older smartphones).

Videx mitigates this by offering not only alternative access methods – keypad and physical fobs – but also by embedding a Bluetooth interface, which has been a wireless standard for decades and still is.

Meeting demands

Videx is setting a new standard with the ERA23V door station and the Videx Virtual Fob App, enabling secure, contactless access via smartphones.

A two-wire bus system makes it ideal for residential and commercial applications. And, in the context of NFC-based access control, the ERA23V stands out for innovation, practicality and compliance with industry standards.

As NFC adoption grows, the ERA Series is poised to meet the demands of modern, efficient and secure access solutions.