How SpeedGate Optical Turnstiles Improve Entrance Security and Campus Experience
By Mike McGovern and Erica Duncan
Speedgates, also known as swing barrier optical turnstiles, are a common feature in campus security designs, particularly for colleges and universities in urban settings. At Orion Entrance Control Inc., we are frequently asked to assist with the planning and integration of speedgate installations.
In the following discussion, we’ll explore the case for using speedgates in higher education environments and highlight key considerations when selecting features and peripherals.
Background
Urban colleges, universities and other educational campuses have unique characteristics that influence recommendations for security products and features. City campuses often face heavy public foot traffic near building entrances and passersby frequently have a clear view of these entryways and lobbies. Students, parents, and visitors want to feel assured that the campus is safe and that the security of the campus is obvious and well-presented
Space for access control and physical security equipment on these campuses is often limited, particularly in retrofit projects. Additionally, peak entry and exit times can create very high traffic volumes through security doors, making the choice of access control products critical.
At Orion ECI, we offer a variety of system designs and features tailored to higher education. With urban campuses presenting unique challenges, from limited space to high traffic volumes, choosing the right speedgate solution is essential.
In the following Q&A, we provide practical recommendations to help select the best design for each location and application.
Security Design Recommendations for SpeedGate Turnstiles
#1: Why choose speedgates instead of mechanical turnstiles?
When most people think of turnstiles, they imagine traditional mechanical type, either waist-high tripods or full-height barriers. They are reliable, reasonably secure, but can feel clunky and unwelcoming.
In contrast, modern speedgate optical turnstiles are sleek, visually appealing, and most importantly, more secure, making them a more prominent choice in security solutions for educational campuses.
Speedgates generally have smart technology that detects intrusions and alarms on uncredentialed entries or unauthorized exits. The devices are driven by high level algorithms and AI engines, helping lobby staff and security teams to respond more efficiently. Some speedgates also include optional features like crawl-over/crawl-under protection and superior tailgate detection to further improve security.
In addition, some lanes such as those from Orion ECI can be remotely monitored for security, providing alarm reports, occupancy data and lane diagnostics for preventative maintenance and service planning. These capabilities make them particularly well-suited for educational campuses seeking a secure yet welcoming entry experience.
#2. Which speedgate type is typically selected for higher-ed campuses: Retracting or swinging barriers?
Speedgates generally come in two varieties: swing glass/arm barriers or sliding/retracting barriers. For higher education applications, we typically recommend the swinging barriers variety and here’s why:
Swing glass speedgate turnstiles are designed to handle high volumes of users, including those unfamiliar with the system. They are built to be intuitive and generally require little to no prior training: the reader/authentication device location is clear and intuitive, the lane status indicators provide a real-time visual lane status (green for go, red for stop), and the barriers swing bi-directionally away from the user.
This design allows users to begin entering immediately upon badge read, creating a smooth, efficient pass-through. Multiple individuals can badge and pass consecutively as long as credentials are valid, enabling very high throughput, ideal for busy campus entrances.
#3. More specifically, which speedgate swinging barrier is typically selected for higher-ed campuses: Glass or arm barriers?
Swinging barrier Speedgates can have either arm/bar or glass barriers. While arm barriers were once more common, glass barriers have become the preferred choice in recent years.
Why? The reason is twofold:
- Aesthetics: Glass panels create a more welcoming, modern appearance that aligns with the architectural style of today’s campus facilities.
- Security perception and deterrence: The transparent yet substantial look of glass barriers often conveys a stronger sense of security and, in practice, can provide greater deterrence against unauthorized entry.
#4. What swing glass barrier options are available for speedgates?
Swing glass Speedgates, such as Orion ECI’s, offer a range of glass barrier heights. A low glass system provides barriers below the height of the pedestal tops, approximately 35” above finished floor (AFF). Alternatively, barriers are available in glass barrier heights up to 72” above finished floor (AFF).
Lower height swing glass barriers are specified in environments such as corporate lobbies because the architectural designers prefer the open, unobstructed look.
However, for the higher education campuses, we recommend medium height swing glass barriers, approx. 48” – 60”.
Why medium height?
- Barriers in the 48” – 60” range provide a strong balance of security and aesthetics.
- They discourage climb-over attempts both visually (appearing more secure) and physically (harder to bypass).
- They maintain a welcoming appearance for students, faculty, and visitors – important for spaces like dorms, classroom buildings, libraries, fitness centers, and other common areas.
What about maximum height (72”)?
While 72” glass barriers deliver the highest level of physical and visual deterrence, many campus security directors find them unnecessary and also unfriendly in appearance. As a result, medium-height panels (48” – 60”) are the most common choice in higher-ed environments.
In conclusion, universities, colleges and other educational campuses have specific needs and goals when it comes to physical security products. Swing glass speedgates such as those from Orion ECI combine intelligent functionality with an attractive design and are available in a range of barrier heights to suit different applications.
Our experience has shown that medium height swing glass barriers (48” – 60”) strike a nice balance between visual/physical security levels and a welcoming, pleasant entrance environment. This makes them the preferred choice for most higher education settings, including dormitories, academic buildings, libraries, fitness centers, and other common spaces.
Want to talk more?
We welcome your thoughts on this topic and look forward to continuing the conversation about best practices in campus security entrance control.
Mike McGovern
mikem@orioneci.com
610-585-7279
Erica Duncan
ericad@orioneci.com