Inception Platform
Overview
Inception is an integrated access control and intruder detection system designed by Inner Range, featuring a powerful, built-in web server. It is primarily targeted at the Small to Medium-sized Business (SMB) market. Inception is optimized for ease of use, rapid deployment, and intuitive daily management without the need for dedicated server hardware or software, while still leveraging shared Common Concepts used across the Inner Range ecosystem.
Technical Details
Architecture and Management
The core philosophy of the Inception system is its Zero-Software model. The Inception Controller natively hosts the management web interface, meaning all configuration, monitoring, and database management are performed directly on the hardware via a standard web browser. This eliminates the need for a dedicated PC server or client software installation.
- Embedded Intelligence: Decisions are made instantly by the controller, which supervises all connected LAN and UniBus modules.
- SkyTunnel Connectivity: Provides a secure cloud-based bridge (using port 40844) for remote access and alarm reporting without the need for port forwarding or fixed IP addresses.
System Capacities
- Areas: 96
- Inputs: 1024
- Outputs: 1024
- Doors: 128
- Lifts / Lift Floors: 32 / 1024
- Readers: 256 SIFER/OSDP Readers, 256 Wiegand Readers
- Users: 10,000
- Events: 250,000
Hardware Infrastructure
Inception leverages a multi-tier expansion architecture:
- LAN Expansion: Supports a wide range of RS485 LAN modules, including the Standard LAN Access Module (SLAM) and Intelligent LAN Access Module (ILAM). Up to 250 modules total can be supervised.
- UniBus Expansion: Local expansion via 6 UniBus slots directly on the controller or host LAN modules for cost-effective local I/O.
- Smart Reader Port: Supports up to 8 SIFER or OSDP readers directly on the controller.
Configuration / Commissioning
Inception is designed for rapid deployment through a built-in Commissioning Checklist. This guided wizard ensures technicians complete all mandatory steps, such as:
- Network Setup: Assigning static IPs or configuring Wi-Fi.
- Installer Account: Forced creation of a secure administrative login upon first access.
- Module Enrolment: Scanning the RS485 LAN for attached hardware.
- Database Protection: Setting up automated backup schedules to local storage or cloud.
Third-Party Integrations
- Aperio Wireless Doors: Support for wireless door locks via the ILAM.
- Inception REST API: High-level interface for user management, monitoring, and control.
Maintenance and Resets
The physical Reset button on the controller provides two tiers of recovery:
- Installer Reset (5 quick presses): Resets only the installer credentials and permissions. Used if an administrator is locked out but existing system programming needs to be preserved.
- Factory Default (5-second hold): Erases the entire database and resets the hardware to its shipping state.
NOTE
Inception requires no software licensing. All features are available via the built-in web interface out of the box.
Hardware Reference
Controllers
Keypads & Readers
- EliteX OLED Keypad
- SIFER Smart Card Reader
- SIFER Keypad Smart Card Reader
- SIFER Reader Add-on Kit
- HID Hybrid Signo SIFER Reader
- Mobile Access Reader
- Mobile Access Keypad
LAN & Network Modules
- Intelligent LAN Access Module (ILAM)
- Standard LAN Access Module (SLAM)
- 8 Zone LAN Expander
- LAN Isolator
- Fibre Modems
- LAN Ethernet Bridge Module
UniBus Modules
- UniBus 8 Zone Expander
- UniBus 8 Relay Auxiliary Expander
- UniBus 2 Door Expander
- UniBus 16 Floor Lift Interface