Smart Locks & Access Control Systems: Engineered for security and user experience

The future of access is seamless and secure. We provide the core technology and engineering expertise to help you build next-generation smart locks, secure vehicle entry, and seamless access control systems.

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The challenges of Smart Locks & Access Control Systems

Building a new-generation access solution is a multi-faceted challenge. Without a deep understanding of core technologies and security standards, projects can compromise on the very things that matter most.

Security vulnerabilities

Traditional access systems, including older smart locks based on BLE alone, are vulnerable to relay attacks and spoofing. Without secure ranging protocols, these systems can be easily bypassed, exposing critical assets to risk.

Complex integration

Building a secure, interoperable system that works with diverse technologies like BLE, UWB, and RFID, and adheres to evolving standards like Aliro, Matter, and CCC, is a major technical hurdle.

Inconvenient user experience

Users expect seamless, hands-free access. Solutions that require manual interaction, such as tapping a phone or key fob, fall short of modern expectations and can create friction in everyday use.

Certification and compliance

The process of ensuring a smart lock or access system is compliant with security standards and industry regulations, like those from the FiRa Consortium, is complex and costly without a proven foundation

Our solutions

We provide the fundamental technology and expertise needed to build a competitive and secure access solution. Our approach is based on a modular architecture that ensures both security and user experience are prioritized from day one.

01 Data acquisition and secure communication

UWB for secure ranging

We leverage Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to achieve centimeter-level accuracy and secure ranging. This is critical for preventing relay attacks by cryptographically verifying the physical proximity of an authorized device, a feature older technologies cannot provide.

Multi-protocol support

Our solutions are engineered to support a mix of protocols. We combine UWB for precision and security with BLE for cost-effective, wide-coverage tracking, and can integrate with RFID, creating a versatile and resilient network.

Hardware security modules (HSM)

We design our solutions with security in mind, implementing Hardware Security Modules (HSM) and Secure Elements (SE) to protect cryptographic keys and ensure tamper-proof operation.

02 Intelligence and user experience

Intent-based access

Our systems use a Multi-Sensor Fusion Engine that combines UWB's precise location with other sensor data to intelligently interpret a user's intent. This allows for a truly seamless, hands-free "walk-up-and-unlock" experience.

Local automation rules

We can implement Local Automation Rules Engines that trigger events—such as unlocking a door when a user is within a specific range—without relying on the cloud, ensuring instant, low-latency responses and reliable operation during network outages.

Unified API layer

Our API Gateway & Integration Layer acts as a centralized access point for all access data. This simplifies integration with your existing user applications, management systems, and other enterprise platforms, ensuring a seamless flow of information.

What we bring to your project

We don't sell a finished product; we provide the technology and expertise to build one. Our partnership is flexible, allowing us to engage at any stage of your product's lifecycle.

01 Defining the blueprint

Feasibility analysis
We begin with a deep dive into your product idea, from automotive access to smart home entry. We define the optimal technology stack (UWB vs. BLE vs. a hybrid model) and help you navigate industry standards like Aliro and the FiRa Consortium.
Prototyping & validation
We design and build a working proof of concept (PoC) to validate the core functionality of your smart lock or access system. This allows you to test the technology, user experience, and security in a controlled environment, minimizing upfront risk and accelerating the path to an MVP.

02 Custom product development

Hardware modules
We engineer custom, miniaturized hardware modules using chips like Qorvo QM33 and QM35. Our expertise covers everything from antenna design to power optimization, ensuring your hardware is both compact and robust.
Firmware and software
We develop the core firmware that powers your smart lock, implementing advanced power management, secure ranging protocols, and custom application layers. We also build the software backend and API layers that ensure seamless integration with your mobile application and cloud services.
Testing and certification support
Our services include rigorous end-to-end testing and support for certification processes. We ensure your product aligns with wireless regulations (CE/RED) and industry-specific security standards, helping you to avoid costly rework and accelerate your time-to-market.

Where our access control solutions fit

Our expertise applies across a diverse range of sectors, enabling you to create transformative, secure access solutions.

Automotive

Secure keyless entry
We engineer systems that use UWB's secure ranging to provide a seamless, hands-free "walk-up-and-unlock" experience, while preventing relay attacks.
Vehicle anti-theft
Our solutions can confirm the physical presence of an authorized key inside the vehicle before the engine starts, mitigating common theft vectors.

Smart buildings & cities

Enterprise access control
We design and deploy UWB-based access control systems for office buildings, data centers, and restricted areas, providing superior security, precision, and reliability over older technologies.
Visitor management
Our systems can streamline visitor check-in, temporary credentialing, and real-time location monitoring within an access-controlled environment.

Consumer & smart homes

Seamless home entry
We provide the technology for smart locks that can intelligently interpret a user's intent to open a door based on their approach, speed, and orientation, creating a truly invisible access experience.
Elderly care
We can use UWB radar for non-contact, privacy-preserving monitoring to detect falls and monitor activity levels, providing peace of mind for caregivers.

Case studies

Custom hardware and software development kit for smart home remote control

We engineered a custom hardware design and a Software Development Kit (SDK) focused on dual-protocol functionality (BLE and ZigBee). This project achieved robust BLE pairing and button testing, providing a versatile, multi-standard control solution for future smart home pilots.

Bluetooth low energy badge for proximity data and automated sharing

We engineered a compact, ultra-low-power BLE badge designed for seamless proximity data sharing and asset identification. The solution enables reliable, real-time presence detection and integrates with existing infrastructure for automated digital workflows.

Testimonials

“I think the key takeaway from needCode is their ability to adapt and understand the customer's requirements. That took away probably a large portion of what could have been a lot of development time and expense for both companies.”

Bob Folkestad

President at Creative Werks

“One aspect that truly sets needCode apart is its profound expertise in firmware development. Their proficiency in various programming languages, embedded systems and hardware architecture is truly impressive. When faced with difficult problems, their strong problem-solving skills and analytical mindset shine through, allowing them to overcome obstacles with remarkable ease.”

Semeh Sarhan

CEO at Xtrava

“I worked with needCode while leading the NWTN-Berlin team in 2018. A big chunk for our FW development has been outsourced to them and they had proven to iterate very quickly, following specs and deliver on time. It was great working with them. I recommend working with needCode’s team on any Embedded SW development.”

Marco Salvioli Mariani

CTO at NWTN Berlin GmbH

“needCode Team proved to be one of the best engineers I have ever met. The part I like the most about the team is the more difficult an obstacle seems to be, the more motivated they were to find a solution and a way forward.”

Szymon Słupik

CTO at Silvair

“needCode is an outstanding partner. Their quick follow-up, scalability, and extensive professional network set them apart. Their expertise in wireless technologies has been valuable, supporting us from low-level drivers to architecture discussions.”

Tim Allemeersch

Director at Qorvo, Inc.

“needCode did a great job improving the firmware of the Vai Kai connected toys and developing new features, surpassing our expectations multiple times. I would definitely recommend hiring Bartek and needCode for the embedded software projects!”