The present invention discloses a gate control device which controls the
passage (e.g., entry, exit, etc.) through a passageway of both authorized
persons and unauthorized companions of authorized persons into a protected
room. The device may be configured such that the unauthorized companions
may be permitted or denied passage if the unauthorized companions are with
an authorized person. For example, the device may be configured to allow
an entire group of persons to enter a room if only one authorized person
is present. In another example, the device may deny passage to the entire
group if it contains even one unauthorized person.