Inception Programming Guide
Overview
This guide covers the core programming logic for the Inception system, focusing on user management, permission structures, and time-based automation. Unlike Integriti, Inception utilizes a simplified “What and When” structure for permissions and a built-in web-based scheduler for routine automation.
Technical Details
User Management
A user is defined as any entity that interacts with the system via access cards, PINs, remote fobs, or the web interface.
- Unique Identifiers: Every user must have a unique name.
- Security PINs: Default length is 2 to 8 digits. PINs are used for terminal access and can be used as a password alternative for the web interface (PIN entry mode).
- Web Profiles: Assigned to users to determine which web pages are visible upon login and to define Dashboard Favourites.
Permission Logic (What and When)
Permissions in Inception follow a declarative “What and When” structure:
- What: The target entity (Door, Area, Hardware Output) and the specific action allowed (Access, Arm/Disarm, Control).
- When: The time-based constraint (Always or a specific Time Period).
Scheduling Architecture
Scheduling is the combination of Time Periods and Calendars:
- Time Periods: Define recurring weekly time blocks (e.g., Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00).
- Calendars: Provide exceptions to recurring time periods (Single Dates, Date Ranges, or Calculated Dates like “Second Tuesday of the month”).
- Scheduler: A dedicated interface to link Time Periods to system actions (Auto-unlock doors, Auto-arm areas) without modifying core object configurations.
Configuration / Programming
1. User Setup
Path: [Configuration > Users > Manage Users]
- Click Add to create a new user.
- Assign a Security PIN (use ‘Generate’ for a unique unused code).
- Add Credentials:
- To add a card, present it to a reader first, then click Add From Recent Card Reads.
- To add a remote, click Add From Recent Fob Event.
- Configure Web Login Details if web access is required, selecting an appropriate Web Page Profile.
2. Permissions and Groups
Path: [Configuration > Users > Permission Groups]
- Define a Permission Group based on roles (e.g., “Warehouse Staff”).
- Add Permissions using the structure:
[Allowed/Deny] -> [What (Item)] -> [How (Action)] -> [When (Time Period)]
- Assign the group to the relevant users. Permissions can also reference other permission groups to create hierarchies.
3. Scheduling (Time Periods & Calendars)
Path: [Configuration > Scheduling > Time Periods]
- Define the Weekly Recurring blocks.
- Add Exceptions by linking a Calendar item.
Path: [Configuration > Scheduling > Calendars]
- Single Dates: Specific dates (optionally recurring annually).
- Date Ranges: Start and End dates for holidays or shutdowns.
- Calculated Dates: Logic-based dates (e.g., “Last Friday of every month”).
4. System Automation
Path: [Configuration > Scheduling > Scheduler]
- Use this page to apply Time Periods to:
- Doors: Set automatic unlock/relock times.
- Areas: Set automatic arming/disarming schedules.
- Lifts: Set free access schedules for floors.
Troubleshooting
Failed Arming from Web Interface
If an area fails to arm, a dialog will appear showing the specific unsealed inputs. Use the Isolate and Retry button to override faulty detectors if necessary (refer to Inception Maintenance for isolation policies).
Terminal Access Issues
- Ensure the user’s PIN is correctly entered (up to 8 digits).
- Terminals automatically log off after 1 minute of inactivity.
- If “Menu” options are missing, verify the user’s Permission Group includes the “What” for that terminal’s associated items.