Should I Use a GateKeeper USB Sensor with the Halberd Token?

The GateKeeper Halberd token communicates with the GateKeeper Client through Bluetooth Low Energy. Depending on the computer, GateKeeper can receive the token’s signal through:

• A GateKeeper USB Bluetooth Sensor
• The computer’s compatible built-in Bluetooth adapter
• A combination of built-in Bluetooth and one or more GateKeeper USB Sensors

Although built-in Bluetooth may work on compatible Windows computers, GateKeeper USB Sensors are recommended because they generally provide more consistent locking, unlocking, and proximity detection.

The recommended deployment method depends on whether GateKeeper is being installed on a desktop or laptop.

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Desktop Computer Recommendation

Always install at least one GateKeeper USB Sensor on desktop computers.

Desktop computers are frequently installed:

• Under desks
• Inside cabinets
• Behind monitors
• Against walls
• Away from the user’s normal working position

These placements can weaken or obstruct the Bluetooth signal between the Halberd token and the computer’s internal Bluetooth antenna.

Recommended setup

1. Connect at least one GateKeeper USB Sensor to the desktop.
2. Place the sensor where it has a clear line of sight to the user and the Halberd token.
3. If the computer is under a desk or inside a cabinet, use a USB extension cable to position the sensor above the desk or near the user.
4. Test automatic locking and unlocking from the user’s normal seated and standing positions.
5. For larger workspaces, standing desks, shared workstations, or areas with Bluetooth interference, consider installing two GateKeeper USB Sensors.

Using multiple sensors gives the GateKeeper Client additional signal points and can reduce blind spots and inconsistent proximity decisions.

Desktop recommendation: Do not rely solely on the desktop computer’s built-in Bluetooth adapter.

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Laptop Recommendation

For laptops, begin the deployment with one GateKeeper USB Sensor.

This creates a stable baseline and allows the administrator to confirm that GateKeeper locks and unlocks consistently before testing the laptop’s built-in Bluetooth.

Initial laptop setup

1. Connect one GateKeeper USB Sensor directly to the laptop.
2. Position the sensor on the side of the laptop closest to where the user normally carries the Halberd token.
3. Test the following:
   • Touch or proximity unlock
   • Automatic proximity lock
   • Manual token-button lock
   • Locking and unlocking while docked
   • Locking and unlocking while undocked
   • Performance at the user’s normal desk
   • Performance in meeting rooms or other work areas
4. Confirm that GateKeeper responds consistently during normal daily use.

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Testing the Laptop Without the USB Sensor

After confirming stable performance with the USB Sensor, the administrator may remove it and test the laptop using only its built-in Bluetooth adapter.

The purpose of this test is to determine whether the laptop can maintain consistent GateKeeper performance without the external sensor.

Test procedure

1. Remove the GateKeeper USB Sensor.
2. Confirm in the GateKeeper Client that the laptop’s built-in Bluetooth adapter is detected.
3. Restart the GateKeeper Client or restart the laptop if necessary.
4. Repeat the same lock and unlock tests that were completed with the USB Sensor connected.
5. Continue testing during normal use, including:
   • While the laptop is docked
   • While the laptop is undocked
   • With the lid open and closed
   • At different desk locations
   • While the user is wearing the token normally
   • Around other Bluetooth and wireless devices
6. Compare the results with the original USB Sensor test.

The USB Sensor may be removed when:

• Unlocking remains fast and reliable.
• The workstation locks consistently when the user walks away.
• The computer does not lock unexpectedly while the user is working.
• Performance remains consistent while docked and undocked.
• The built-in Bluetooth adapter remains available after restarts and sleep cycles.

Keep or reinstall the USB Sensor when:

• Unlocking is slow or inconsistent.
• The workstation locks while the user is still present.
• The workstation does not lock when the user walks away.
• Bluetooth disconnects intermittently.
• Performance changes depending on whether the laptop is docked.
• The built-in Bluetooth adapter is affected by power management.
• The user must repeatedly touch the token to authenticate.

Laptop recommendation: A laptop may be tested with built-in Bluetooth only, but the GateKeeper USB Sensor should remain installed whenever removing it reduces locking or unlocking consistency.

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Why the USB Sensor Is Recommended

Built-in Bluetooth performance can vary based on the computer model, antenna placement, Bluetooth driver, power-management settings, docking station, wireless interference, and the location of the Halberd token.

A GateKeeper USB Sensor can provide:

• A more consistent Bluetooth connection
• Better line of sight to the Halberd token
• Faster and more reliable lock and unlock decisions
• Reduced unintended locking
• More flexible sensor placement

GateKeeper supports compatible built-in Bluetooth adapters, but recommends using a GateKeeper USB Sensor to provide more predictable performance.

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Recommended Deployment Summary

Computer type	Initial deployment	May the sensor be removed?
Desktop computer	Always install at least one GateKeeper USB Sensor	Not recommended
Laptop computer	Start with one GateKeeper USB Sensor	Yes, but only after confirming consistent performance with built-in Bluetooth
Shared workstation	Use at least one USB Sensor; additional sensors may improve coverage	Not recommended
Computer under a desk or inside a cabinet	Use a USB Sensor with an extension cable	Not recommended
Standing desk or large workspace	Consider two USB Sensors	Not recommended unless built-in Bluetooth passes thorough testing

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Final Recommendation

For the most consistent GateKeeper experience:

• Desktop computers: Always use a GateKeeper USB Sensor.
• Laptop computers: Start with one GateKeeper USB Sensor. After establishing stable performance, remove it temporarily and test the built-in Bluetooth adapter. Keep the sensor removed only if locking and unlocking remain consistently reliable.
• Challenging environments: Use additional sensors when one sensor does not provide sufficient coverage or signal consistency.

For any additional questions or concerns regarding faster 2FA, proximity settings, computer locking, password management, or compliance, please contact GateKeeper Enterprise support using the Support Ticket form on https://gkaccess.com/support/ or email [e-mail].