To install a stand-alone controller (platform), commission it, and to create a station, the installer uses Workbench running on a PC, which is temporarily connected to the same network as the controller.

Access to the station for the purpose of monitoring alarms and performing routine maintenance requires any device (computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone) connected to the network that is capable of running a browser. The first time you access each platform and station, a Guided Setup Wizard prompts you through the post-software-installation and configuration process.

These features are not available for stand-alone controllers:

Other feature limitations that require Workbench for both the Supervisor and controller include:

Many factors impact the network, including the number of devices, the frequency of processing transactions, and the size and frequency of generated reports. When a large installation operates on a stand-alone platform without a Supervisor PC, performance may be impacted. Although metrics are available, it is very difficult to establish a rule of thumb to work in every situation. The more you add to the installation, the higher the risk of impacting key functions, such as access validation, alarming, and card management.