Is the Grandstream GDS372x Series the Best IP Video Door Station for Modern Access Control?

Access control has evolved, with solutions like PoE video door stations and SIP-based access control systems delivering smarter, more connected entry management.

Modern systems don’t just secure doors,  they manage who goes where, with better visibility and easy control.

The Grandstream GDS372x Series is a range of IP video door stations that combines access control, intercom and video surveillance into a single device. By consolidating these functions at the entry point, it reduces the need for multiple standalone systems and simplifies both deployment and ongoing management.

This type of solution is particularly relevant in environments such as offices, schools or residential buildings, where it is important to balance security with accessibility. The inclusion of weatherproof and vandal-resistant designs also makes the range suitable for external doors, gates and high-traffic areas. 

Built for Modern Entry Points

A key requirement of any entry system is clear visibility.

The GDS372x series incorporates a 4MP camera with 1080p video, wide-angle coverage and AI-enhanced imaging to provide a consistent view of entry points, including in low-light conditions.

In addition to video capture, the system includes motion and behaviour detection. This allows it to monitor activity around entrances and highlight potential events of interest, rather than simply recording footage.

The built-in intercom, supported by dual microphones and a speaker, enables direct communication with visitors, which can be useful for verifying access before entry is granted.

Flexible Access Methods

Access requirements can vary significantly depending on the environment and the type of users involved.

To accommodate this, the GDS372x series supports multiple authentication methods, including:

• PIN codes – simple and familiar, ideal for staff or shared access points
• RFID and key cards – quick tap-in entry, commonly used in offices and schools
• NFC, Bluetooth and mobile app access – enables keyless entry via smartphones, reducing the need for physical credentials
• QR codes for visitor access – perfect for temporary or one-time entry without issuing cards
• SIP-based calls for remote unlocking – allows doors to be opened from anywhere via connected devices

This range of options allows organisations to define access policies that suit different users, from permanent staff to temporary visitors, while maintaining central control over permissions!

Choosing the Right Fit

While the three models share a common foundation, they differ in how they are deployed:

WiFi 6 vs PoE: Choosing the Right Setup for Your Intercom

When selecting an IP video door station, one of the key decisions is how the device will connect and be powered.

PoE is often the preferred option for permanent installations. It delivers both power and data through a single cable, making it reliable, secure and ideal for sites where structured cabling is already in place.

WiFi 6, on the other hand, offers more flexibility. It’s particularly useful in locations where running Ethernet cables is difficult or costly, such as retrofits, external gates or temporary setups.

The GDS3727 supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth, making it well-suited to these more flexible deployments, while the GDS3725 and GDS3726 rely on PoE for a stable wired connection.

It’s worth noting: even with WiFi 6, the device still requires power via a 12V DC supply if PoE isn’t used, as it is not a battery-powered unit.

System Management and Integration

As access systems scale, centralised management becomes increasingly important.

With GDS Manager, administrators can configure devices, manage users, monitor live video and review access logs from a single interface.

The SecureAccess app complements this by providing mobile access to key functions, such as remote door control, permission updates and activity monitoring.

Together, these tools support both on-site and remote management, helping maintain oversight across one or multiple locations.

The system also supports integration with SIP devices and other security platforms, allowing it to operate as part of a wider communications or surveillance infrastructure.

Rethinking Access Control: Key Takeaways

The GDS372x series reflects a broader shift towards more integrated and flexible access control systems. With 1080p HD video powered by 4MP sensors, full SIP-based access control for seamless VoIP integration, and PoE support for simplified installation, it brings multiple essential functions together in a single device. Combined with weatherproof, vandal-resistant designs and the option for WiFi 6 and BLE in more flexible deployments, it offers a practical solution for a wide range of environments. For organisations looking to modernise entry systems, this approach not only improves visibility but also streamlines management and adapts easily to changing access requirements.