Abstract: A security system incorporating one or more biometric data recognition capabilities in a non-intrusive way to enhance the overall security provided by the system. The biometric recognition may be provided by incorporating one or more cameras in a keypad system wherein the key identifications are altered between uses, and wherein the viewing of the key identifications is sufficiently restricted so that an operator must be adequately aligned with the key identifications when operating the system that reliable biometric data may be automatically obtained during system operation without the need for additional explicit positioning requirements placed upon the user. Other biometric data sensors may also be used if desired. Various embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for access control is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a keypad unit, proximity sensor, a card reader interface circuit, and a control circuit. The keypad unit displays a plurality of randomly generated symbols on a keyface which includes a plurality of keys. The keypad unit generates a signal representing one of the plurality of randomly generated symbols when a corresponding key on the keyface is activated. The proximity sensor senses the information encoded in a card held near the keypad unit. The proximity sensor is hidden within the keypad unit. The card reader interface circuit is coupled to the proximity sensor for reading the encoded information from the card. The control circuit is coupled to the keypad unit and the card reader interface circuit to convert the signal or the encoded information into an identification code.

Abstract: Speech actuated security devices and methods whereby a lock, or other security or access device, may be actuated by a speech input thereto, but without disclosure of the actual code where doing so to those hearing the code words spoken during use of the security device. The security device includes a microphone, a display for displaying a plurality of code elements, and a processor for controlling the display and analyzing the microphone signal to detect a proper sequence of code elements spoken by a user as detected by the microphone and to operate the security device in response thereto. The code elements are displayed on the display under processor control in various patterns.

Abstract: A power controller for electric locks which draw large startup current surges which controls and manages the energy of a pair of storage batteries to reliably operate such electric locks and provide steady-state power to auxiliary system components both with AC power present and in the absence thereof, so long as the stored charge in the batteries is able, to thereafter maintain a steady source of power to the system as long as possible, and to be self-starting upon the return of AC power, all without ever placing the electric locks in a partially unlocked or "hung" state. The two storage batteries are normally maintained charged through an AC power source, and both cooperate to provide the surge power. On loss of AC power, both still provide surge power so long as one can maintain the steady state power, and thereafter the other battery alone provides surge power so long as possible.