Physical access control is a security system used to restrict or allow entry to physical spaces such as buildings, rooms, or secure areas. Its main purpose is to ensure that only authorized individuals can access certain locations, protecting people, property, and sensitive information. Common examples include key cards, PIN codes, biometric scanners like facial recognition or fingerprints, and turnstiles. These systems work by verifying a person’s credentials and granting access if they meet the necessary permissions.

Cloud-based access control is a modern security system that manages and monitors who can enter a building or space using software hosted on the internet rather than on local servers. This allows users to control access remotely from any device with an internet connection, making it easy to add or remove users, set schedules, and view entry logs in real time. Cloud systems often integrate with mobile credentials, facial recognition, or other smart technologies, reducing the need for traditional keys or on-site infrastructure. It’s scalable, easier to maintain, and ideal for organizations with multiple locations or remote management needs.

• The benefits of SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) access control include:
• Remote Management: Control and monitor access from anywhere using any internet-connected device.
• Lower Upfront Costs: No need for expensive on-site servers or infrastructure—just a subscription model.
• Automatic Updates: Software updates and security patches are handled automatically by the provider.
• Scalability: Easily add new users, doors, or locations without major system changes.
• Improved Security: Real-time alerts, detailed access logs, and integration with advanced authentication methods like biometrics or mobile credentials.
• Data Backup & Redundancy: Your access data is securely stored in the cloud with backup and disaster recovery capabilities.
• In short, SaaS access control offers flexibility, cost efficiency, and stronger security with less IT overhead.

• Active Witness (Sima) is different from traditional access control systems in several ways:
• Mobile Credentials + Facial Authentication: Unlike traditional systems that rely on keycards or fobs, Active Witness uses secure facial authentication through a mobile app—adding a second layer of identity verification.
• Cloud-Based Management: Active Witness runs on a cloud platform, allowing administrators to manage access remotely, view real-time activity, and update permissions instantly—no on-site servers or manual updates needed.
• All-in-One Device: The Sima device combines video intercom, facial authentication, and mobile access in one unit, reducing hardware clutter and installation complexity.
• Scalability and Simplicity: It’s easy to deploy across multiple locations and scale as needed without complex infrastructure or high upfront costs.
• Enhanced Security: By tying credentials to a real-time face match, it eliminates common risks like credential sharing, lost cards, or stolen fobs. The facial authentication feature is optional and administrators can turn that on or off depending on their security needs.
• Overall, Active Witness modernizes access control with a more secure, flexible, and user-friendly approach.

To set up the Active Witness Sima device in your facility, you’ll typically need the following:

1. Sima Device(s): The core all-in-one hardware unit that combines facial authentication, mobile credentials, and video intercom.
2. Stable Internet Connection: Since Sima is cloud-based, reliable internet access is essential for real-time communication with the cloud platform.
3. Power Source: Access to power for the Sima device, usually Power over Ethernet (PoE) or you can use a 12 Volt DC Power Source.
4. Access Control Hardware: Depending on your door setup, you may need electric door strikes or magnetic locks that the Sima device can control to unlock doors.
5. Active Witness Cloud Account: Set up an account on the Active Witness cloud platform for managing users, permissions, and device settings. This can be done by contacting your installer or Active Witness directly.
6. Mobile App Installation: Users will need to download and register on the Active Witness mobile app for facial authentication and mobile credential access.

Benefits of mobile credentials for access control include:

• Convenience: Users can access secure areas using their smartphones—no need to carry physical cards, fobs, or keys.
• Improved Security: Mobile credentials are harder to duplicate or lose and can be tied to biometric authentication like facial recognition or fingerprint unlock.
• Remote Management: Admins can issue, revoke, or update credentials instantly through the cloud, without needing to be on-site.
• Cost Savings: Reduces the need for printing or replacing lost physical cards or fobs, cutting long-term costs.
• Faster Onboarding: New users can be granted access instantly through the app—no delays waiting for physical credentials.
• Audit Trails: Access activity is logged in real time, providing clear records of who entered where and when.
• Environmentally Friendly: Eliminates plastic cards or fobs, reducing waste.
• Mobile credentials offer a smarter, more secure, and efficient alternative to traditional access methods—ideal for modern, tech-forward facilities.

PoE (Power over Ethernet) is a technology that allows both electrical power and data to be delivered over a single Ethernet cable making installation faster, cleaner, and cheaper.

Common Uses:

• Security cameras
• Access control devices (like Active Witness Sima)
• Wi-Fi access points
• VoIP phones

Benefits:

• Fewer cables
• Easier installation
• Works in places without nearby power outlets
• Centralized power control (e.g., rebooting devices remotely)

• Please contact your security integrator. Active Witness products are available through distributors in the USA and Canada. Security dealers and integrators can purchase from Wesco, IDN, SS&SI and Aartech.

If you need help finding a security integrator in your area, please contact Active Witness and we can assist you.

Yes, your systems integrator can buy the product from one of our distributors and handle the installation. They’re welcome to contact Active Witness ahead of time for setup support or installation details.

Yes, the Sima unit includes a 2.1mm DC barrel power connector.

Please contact your integrator to get detailed pricing based on user amounts.

The Sima sensor is manufactured in South Korea and Vietnam.

Our software and mobile apps for Google and iOS are developed in the USA.