There Are Many Extra Charges Attached With The Automated System You Just Thought To Buy! Inquire!

Posted by Hemant S.
2
AI & Software Solutions
Aug 12, 2015
368 Views
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Registers and copies have been replaced by biometric attendance systems these days. Everyone has become hi-tech, even the attendance system is transformed.  This software is:

·         Easy to use,
·         Less expansive,
·         Needs onetime payment and
·         Is accurate.

People use these attendance systems more because of their accuracy, they are reliable and an employer can depend on them. This software is time effective also. Biometric attendance systems are found in different place like schools, organizations, hospitals, buildings, construction sites etc. Fingerprint attendance system is basically used in all these places. Since installing this device doesn’t take time and it can fit in really small space, this is loved by people.

Now you don’t have to go for manual attendance tracking as the software like WebEdify does the tracking for you. There are many vendors who sell biometric attendance systems, however you need to do a little bit of research before buying it. Go for the one you think is reasonable in cost and you can easily afford. The initial installation might not cost you a lot but upgrading it as per your needs will need investment.  

The system however is economical but the extra service might charge you extra pennies. So before buying it, always figure out the extra charges and then decide if you want it or not. Even when it will cost higher, you should go for it because it’s one time investment and it provides quality output.

Sr

Technology

Pros

Cons

1.

BAR CODE READER

Equipment Cost 2k-7K

Single or Omni-directional bar code readers, similar to what you see on billing desk of malls can be used to mark student and staff attendance.

·   Low cost of ID Cards (You don’t require to purchase RFID cards)

·   It can also be used for issuing courseware and books from library

·   Can also be used for very large number (1,000 to 25,000) students

·   Fast and reliable with instant results.

·   Requires dedicated BCR software for communicating with class management software.

·   You need to dedicate a PC/Terminal while attendance is being marked.

·   Does not have any storage so difficult to use when system or internet is down

·   Overall cost is higher if you include the cost of terminal/PC and system maintenance.

2.

PROXIMITY CARD READER

Equipment  cost 5k-8k

Mark attendance of students and staff with RFID (proximity) cards. You simply need to show the card from a distance of upto 6 cm and attendance gets recorded. Communicates with software through LAN port, Serial Port or USB port (pen drive)

·   Fast and reliable

·   Suitable for institutes with 100 to 800 students.

 

·   You need to purchase AutoSync software or manually upload attendance using a pen drive/system utility.

·   Blank ID Cards cost Rs.15 to Rs.25 per card

·   Cost of printing ID Cards approx Rs.3 per card

·   Chances of proxy attendance

 

3.

FINGER PRINT READER

Equipment cost 7k-14k
Mark attendance of students and staff with finger print. Communicates with software through LAN port, Serial Port or USB port (pen drive)

·   Suitable for institutes with 50 to 500 students

·   No need to spend for ID Cards

·   AutoSync software not required.

·   Proxy attendance not possible.

·   Not suitable for very large number of students

·   Sometime Finger print is not recognized and user has to keep trying again and again.

·   Sensor needs to be cleaned periodically.

4.

PROXIMITY CARD + FINGER PRINT READER
Equipment cost 10k-22k

Combines best of both worlds. You can mark attendance of students with RFID Cards and attendance of staff and faculty using their Finger Print. Communicates with software through LAN port, Serial Port or USB port (pen drive). You also have option of communication through WIFI or GPRS (SIM Card)

·   Suitable for small and large institutes

·   GPRS version can be used at remote location which do not have computer, internet or staff

·   Can be taken into the classroom for accurate attendance.

·   AutoSync software not required.

·   Initial cost slightly high.

·   Proxy attendance possible for students using ID cards. However this can be controlled by taking attendance in the class room.

5.

FACE RECOGNITION

Equipment Cost 15k to 25k

Mark attendance using high resolution camera fitted to biometric reader. Can be combined with proximity reader. Communicates with software through LAN port, Serial Port or USB port (pen drive).

·   High tech and impressive

·   No change of proxy attendance

·   Slower than other technologies.

·   Initial cost very high.

 


The extra charges might be added with your machine due to the following reasons:

1)      Installation charges: Most attendance systems are installed near entrance of the institute and need to be connected by LAN wire (CAT6 Cable) with the computer system. The cost of wiring and installation would vary based on location, distance from computer or router, type of cabling required and other factors. Always ask your vendor the installation charges.

2)      Battery Backup/UPS: It is advisable to have a battery backup or mini UPS for taking attendance during power failures. This may cost extra.

3)      Proximity Card Reader: Some readers have this feature as an option and you may have to pay extra for adding it to your reader.

4)      Proximity/RFID Cards: You will need to purchase blank RFID cards, card holders and incur the cost of printing the ID Cards. If your software does not have the feature of printing ID Cards, the cost of entering the data, checking its accuracy and taking photographs also needs to be calculated.

5)      Maintenance charges: Most of the equipments are covered by warranty for one year. Thereafter support charges need to be paid yearly. On the contrary that you are new to utilizing attendance management system, it is prudent to bring yearly support membership with the seller; regardless of the possibility that it costs additional. Maintenance cost is attached with every product and electronic products need to be upgraded timely so that they work efficiently.

6)      Taxes: VAT and other taxes might be the hidden charges included with the product. Do a proper enquiry with your vendor regarding them. Expenses are relevant according to the service standards. You ought to consider the cost after all the appropriate duties are incorporated.

7)      Software: Additional software such as AutoSync might be required for communication between attendance machine and your class management software.

8)      Server: A server space, SQL database and static IP address might be required for communication through WIFI or GPRS system. You need to consider this cost before deciding on the technology

9)      Standby: In case of equipment failure, it could take 1 to 4 weeks for repairs. You may need to arrange for a stand-by system during this period.

You have to ask about all the costs mentioned above from the merchant. After you have a reasonable thought regarding how the real cost will be, then only buy it. If you will not enquire about the extra costs mentioned above initially, then it might end up being an unreasonable issue.

WebEdify supports all technologies. You can buy the equipment from any vendor or ask us to take care of everything, where you can be sure of your costs. You can be assured of transparent dealing with complete peace of mind.

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