1. What is half height turnstile?
Half height turnstile, also known as waist high turnstile, is an access control system used to regulate the flow of people in and out of a building or other secure area.
It is designed to be used as an internal security solution, and is often used in conjunction with other access control measures such as CCTV and card readers. The turnstile is typically constructed of a steel or aluminium frame and is installed at a height of around 1.2 metres. It is designed to allow one person to pass at a time and can be used to ensure that only authorised persons can access the building.
Half height turnstiles are often used in areas where space is limited, as they are much smaller than full height turnstiles and can be more easily integrated into the building's design. They are also more aesthetically pleasing and can often be painted to match the surrounding decor. Half height turnstiles are also ideal for places where speed and efficiency are important, as they can process more people in a shorter amount of time than full height turnstiles.
2. What are the types of half-height turnstiles?
Half height turnstile includes：tripod turnstile, flap barrier, swing turnstile and speed gate
Tripod turnstile is a simple-type turnstile gate that restricts people from entering a specific area or building with three poles. Mainly designed with three poles in the chassis，tripod turnstile provides a small space（passageway width is 550mm）which only allow one person pass each time, so to prevent someone from following behind without authorization.
Swing barrier consists of the stainless steel cabinet and two movable swing panels. The swing panels can swing 180° or 90° to allow or deny people to enter the control area. Common swing panel materials include stainless steel, plexiglass and tempered glass. Swing turnstile provides wider passage space (from 600 to 1200mm) for pedestrians, bicycles, handicapped, shopping carts, strollers and even material transportation.
Due to its elegant design, swing turnstile is commonly found in office buildings, financial institutions, concert halls, libraries, museums, government offices, etc.
Flap barrier turnstiles are basically composed of stainless steel cabinets and retractable panels. The fast retractable acrylic barrier provides high throughput, so it is commonly installed in airports, subway stations, stations, docks, ferry stations and other places with huge traffic. There are two options for channel width 600mm and 900mm, the latter can be used for handicapped persons and people with luggage.
Speed gate is an upgraded product of swing turnstile, with a similar structural design, but provides higher and faster traffic, and the opening speed is as fast as 0.2 seconds. Compared with the swing turnstile, the speed gate has a slimmer design and smaller footprint while retaining the same wide passage space.
In addition, the glass barrier of the speed gate can be as high as 1.8 meters, means it is not possible for user to climbing over. Therefore, it is especially suitable for unmanned but needs high security places, such as hospitals, governments, banks, and places that refuse ticket evaders, such as fitness clubs, movie theaters, subways, stations, etc.
3. How does half height turnstile work?
Half height turnstiles are a type of automated gate used in public and private facilities to control access. The workflow consists of the following steps:
1. Swipe the card (scan QR code or face): This is the first step in the half height turnstile workflow. The user has to swipe their card (scan QR code or his face) through the card reader (face recognition camera) to authenticate their access.
2. Push the turnstile: Once the card is successfully read, the user needs to push the half height turnstile gate. This is done to ensure that the user has passed through the gate and is authorized to enter the facility.
3. Check for authorization: The system then checks if the user is authorized to enter the facility.
4. Unlock the turnstile: If the user is authorized, the system unlocks the turnstile gate and the user is allowed to pass through.
5. Lock the turnstile: After the user passes through the half height turnstile, it is locked again until someone swipes their card again. This ensures that unauthorized personnel won't be able to enter the facility.
4. Benefits of Half Height Turnstiles
1. Increased efficiency
Half-height turnstiles provide improved security and access control while allowing for quicker entry and exit, reducing the time spent waiting in line.
2. Reduced congestion
By reducing the size of the turnstile, half-height turnstiles can provide a smoother flow of traffic, reducing congestion and overcrowding.
3. Adaptable
Half-height turnstiles can be easily customized for any access control system, making them ideal for high-traffic areas where physical security is a priority.
4. Affordable
Half-height turnstiles are relatively affordable, offering a cost-effective solution for those on a budget.
5. Space saving
By taking up less space than traditional turnstiles, half-height turnstiles provide a great solution for limited spaces.
6. Durable
Half-height turnstiles are built for durability, typically constructed with heavy-duty materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and frequent use.
5. Disadvantages of half height turnstiles
1. Not friendly to handicapped
Some half height turnstiles typically cannot accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, making them inaccessible to people with disabilities.
(Here mainly refers to tripod turnstiles, others half height turnstiles such as flap barrier, swing barrier gates and speed gate) are ADA compliant)
2. Easy-bypass
They are easily bypassed with a simple jump or side step, making them ineffective in deterring unauthorized entry.
6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Half Height Turnstile
When selecting a half-height turnstile, there are several factors to consider:
1. Security
Consider the security measures provided by the half height turnstile. Is it appropriate for the level of security required?
2. Reliability
Assess the reliability and durability of the half height turnstileto ensure it can stand up to regular use.
3. Cost
Determine the cost of half height turnstile and any associated maintenance costs.
4. Accessibility
Ensure the half height turnstile is compliant with any disability legislation, providing easy access while still maintaining security.
5.Technology
Consider the type of technology used in the turnstile. Does it support your existing access control systems?
6. Design
Check the design of the half height turnstiles to ensure they suit the environment 
How much does a half height turnstile cost?
Price is an important consideration or even the primary factor when people choose and implement half height turnstiles.
Prices for half height turnstiles range from $200 to $1,000, depending on their style, material, configurations and add-ons. Welcome to contact Macrosafe turnstiles expert to get the ideal quotation meet your needs.
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