ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) is a highly accurate system that uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to precisely identify information on a number plate.

After identification, ANPR systems can log the date, time and location of the vehicle and carry out actions based on the data. For example, the systems can save the information for later retrieval, or enhance premises access control by opening gates or issuing alerts for blacklisted plates.

While ANPR is commonly associated with law enforcement use such as identifying speeding offences and spotting stolen vehicles, the system has many applications designed for private use.

Installing an ANPR system in a car park enables organisations to ascertain that only authorised cars can enter their premises. This can be easily achieved by connecting the ANPR to a pre-existing Access Control database of permitted plates, and then installing ANPR-linked cameras and barriers into the car park. The barriers will not lift for an unauthorised vehicle, and a security person can investigate via intercom or in person.

ANPR combined with barriers is also an excellent way to streamline entrance to any car park, even a public car park, as they can speed up the payment or visitor management process exponentially.