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Café Mac Turnstile FAQ

To streamline access in our newly remodeled Café Mac, we’re introducing two new turnstile lanes featuring biometric technology for quick and easy entry. The system uses a simple hand-wave gesture to enroll users. First-year students can complete the enrollment process in Kagin Ballroom on move-in day. After that, the enrollment reader will be available at the Campus Center Information Desk for all students to access throughout the school year. Once enrolled, you’ll be able to access Café Mac with just a wave of your hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during the enrollment process?

You will be asked to present your Macalester ID as proof of identity. Upon confirmation, you will need to wave your hand at least three times across the enrollment reader. In less than a minute, your enrollment will be registered and ready for use at the turnstile.

Is my handprint stored?

Macalester has contracted our turnstile solution with CBORD, who uses IDEMIA biometric readers. Fingerprint images are converted to a template using a proprietary algorithm and stored as reference data in the form of 0’s and 1’s, created by a patented template generator. It is impossible to reverse-engineer these numbers back into a fingerprint image. After conversion, the original images are immediately discarded. Additionally, the initial fingerprint image is a partial scan, not a complete scan.

For more detailed information on storage and privacy, please refer to the following documents:

How will this new solution be rolled out?

One turnstile lane will be initially designated for biometric use, while the other will continue to use your MacPass ID. As we collect more handprint data in the system, we will transition both turnstiles to full biometric entrance.

What if I don’t want to do this?

You don’t have to! We will continue to have an entry dedicated to MacPass ID after the turnstiles are converted to biometrics.

What if there’s an issue with the turnstiles when I try to access Café Mac?

In the event of technical issues, staff will be on hand to assist with entry.

If I use a wheelchair, will I access the turnstiles differently?

No, you won’t need to access the turnstiles differently. The turnstile lanes are ADA accessible and designed to accommodate wheelchair users. You can use the biometric or MacPass ID lanes just like any other student.

What happens if there’s an emergency evacuation of the building?

There are several emergency exit doors that service the Campus Center building; you will not have to exit via the turnstiles. Additional information on emergency preparedness and procedures can be found here: Emergency Preparedness – Public Safety

How do guests get through the turnstiles?

Guests should approach the staff member stationed near the turnstiles. The staff member will assist with the meal transaction and provide entry into Café Mac.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please contact the ITS Help Desk with any questions.