How Automated Door Access Works for Golf Simulator Studios

The concept is simple: a customer books a simulator bay, and the door opens for them at their scheduled time — automatically. No staff. No keypad. No app to download. Here’s exactly how it works and what you need to set it up.

The Technology Behind It — Birdie + PDK

Birdie integrates with ProDataKey (PDK), a cloud-based access control system used by thousands of commercial facilities. PDK controls the physical door lock via a cloud node installed at the facility. Birdie controls the booking and the unlock trigger.

When a customer books through Birdie, the system generates a unique, time-gated unlock token tied to that booking. The token is delivered to the customer via SMS. When they tap the link at their appointment time, Birdie verifies the booking is active and sends an unlock command to PDK via API. The door opens. The whole sequence takes 2–3 seconds.

What the Customer Experience Looks Like

1. Customer books online and receives an SMS confirmation with their unlock link
2. A reminder text arrives 30 minutes before their session with the link included again
3. They arrive at the facility and open their text message
4. They tap the unlock link — their phone browser opens a simple page
5. The door unlocks
6. They enjoy their session; the link expires at their booking end time

No account creation. No app download. No Bluetooth pairing. Any smartphone with SMS capability works.

Security — How Unauthorized Access Is Prevented

Each unlock link contains a unique token — not a booking ID or any personal data. The token only activates during the exact booking window. Tapping the link early returns a “session hasn’t started” message. Tapping it after the session ends returns an “expired” message.

Each token is single-use for the initial unlock, and the door can be re-triggered during the same booking window if the customer steps out. Tokens are automatically purged from the system after expiration, preventing replay attacks.

If a customer shares their link with someone outside the booking window, the door will not open.

What Hardware You Need

On the PDK side: a cloud node (RCNE or equivalent) installed at the facility, a door controller, and a compatible reader at the entry point. PDK hardware is installed by licensed dealers. If you don’t have it yet, contact us and we’ll connect you with a dealer in your area.

On the Birdie side: an active Birdie account with PDK door access enabled in the admin panel. Setup takes under 10 minutes after hardware is installed.