MobileView Switchers & Switches

In 2017, DITEK saw how power surges from the many natural disasters that took place damaged many businesses. In a natural disaster, or even everyday business operations, a facility’s entire investment in security, life safety and surveillance systems technology can be disabled or rendered useless in a few seconds. Surge protection solutions can mitigate those risks and protect security investments. Proactive Approach To Risk Mitigation Throughout 2017, we also witnessed a change in how enterprises view surge protection, which included how investments are being made in surge protection to protect valuable security, life safety and surveillance systems, while also reducing downtime, manpower costs, liability vulnerabilities, and possibly compliance issues that can force businesses to actually cease operations. Effective security management is about mitigating risks. But risks cannot be mitigated without a proactive approach. Enterprises and integrators, who take the time to assess risk and to develop a strategy to incorporate effective detection, deter and response criteria to protect physical assets will be successful in 2018. 2018 And Beyond That strategy includes designing surge protection into new security systems, while also adding surge protection to existing systems. Enterprises and security integrators who implement a surge protection strategy during security planning processes – or after – will be exercising prevention and mitigation, and they will be successful in 2018 and beyond.  Surge protection devices have an untapped potential for enterprise surveillance and security systems In 2017, Ditek continued to offer security end users a solid surge protection solution. We also successfully educated system integrators, who are seeking value-added products or services to incorporate into their portfolios, on the importance of surge protection devices. Educating Security Integrators We believe that surge protection devices have an untapped potential for enterprise video surveillance and security systems, because they can and do meet safety and security challenges that have been rarely identified in the past. We are looking forward to 2018, when we will continue to develop new surge protection products – including a new product engineered to protect up to twelve individual fuel dispensers, which is critical to the financial operation of convenience stores. We will also continue to educate security integrators about the importance of including surge protection in the design/build RFP, to not only secure an enterprise’s valuable security equipment, but also to help integrators to differentiate their capabilities and knowledge from the competition.

Technology is changing the look and function of today’s security control rooms. Old-school CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitors are giving way to the thinner, flat screen monitors in the control room environment, but the transition is gradual. Randy Smith of Winsted still sees many control rooms that need to make the conversion, which is a boon to his company’s business. Furniture today is designed differently to accommodate the thinner monitors, often with larger screens. Need For Integrated Rack Systems With the increase of IP-based systems comes the need for integrated rack systems that include advanced functionality such as cable management, adds Jim Coleman, National Sales Manager, AFC Industries. Server rooms are environmentally controlled by cooling systems and power systems monitored on the IP network. Low-profile flat screens allow centers to utilize space vertically, thus creating a smaller footprint for the consoles. Additionally, with IP-based systems, workstations will have a smaller footprint because there is less cumbersome equipment. In most cases the servers are stored in a secured, climate controlled environment to eliminate overheating of the servers and maintain their security, says Coleman. This environment also helps with cable and power management. AFC builds technical furniture racks that adhere to the precise needs of computer network server room operators. The company designs and fabricates LAN workbenches with versatile functionalities, and server room workstation racks that are scalable. There is a complete line of IT workbenches, IT computer racks and computer server rack mounts with flexible mounting options. In most cases the servers are stored in a secured, climate controlled environment to eliminate overheating of the servers and maintain their security Flexible Control Room Designs Matko Papic, Chief Technology Officer of Evans Consoles, says the transition from bulky CRT equipment to flat-screen (lower profile) monitors was a major disruption in control room design; it changed the whole dynamic. Another evolution is the use of IP video streaming, which allows more flexibility in manipulation of audio-video content, and requires more flexible control room designs. Another shift, driven by larger, higher-definition monitors, is a shift to fewer monitors that display more information. Instead of a smaller monitor for each information stream, larger monitors now consolidate that information into “dashboard” displays. Looking ahead, control rooms will need to be more flexible, both in the initial design and the ability to adapt to changing technology, says Papic. Legacy customers who are currently using PCs may be moving to more remote applications. Sit-stand equipment will continue to be increasingly prevalent. “There will be more emphasis on flexibility, technology integration, and the ability to change over the life of the system,” says Papic. Consolidation Of Multiple Operations Into A Single System A trend in security is consolidation of multiple physical operations into a single system, says Papic. As a result, more customers are taking more interest in alarm management and situational awareness. How is the technology being used in terms of alarm triggers? How can the systems react rapidly and provide information to a larger audience in the control room? These questions impact how control rooms are designed, and Evans Consoles can adapt lessons learned from other markets to these trends in the security arena. Greater use of technology is inevitable, says Coleman of AFC Industries. “It is virtually impossible for humans to monitor all security data at the street level in our cities,” he says. “As computers become more powerful and their programs more all-encompassing, we will see a greater shift to robotic and technology uses that will provide enhanced monitoring capabilities and safety reactions.” Read our Control Rooms series here

The security industry will continue to see consolidation through acquisition in 2017. At the advent of IP camera adoption, we saw a great decline in large vertically integrated companies, which spurred a new era of innovation within smaller IP camera manufacturers, VMS providers and other hardware companies for storage and managed switches.   We are now living in a new era of consolidation that is taking us full-circle back to vertical integration. Ultimately, the industry as a whole suffers because this consolidation will stifle innovation until the next big technology disruption takes shape. Interoperability Across Different Verticals  This time last year, we noted that the marketplace was moving toward converged technologies and the need for alarm management across multiple platforms into a common interface, turned out to be a popular request. If anything, we are only seeing just the beginning phases of this transition. The biggest surprise is that interoperability is not only confined to security technology, but also extends to parallel systems such as building automation, safety and environmental controls, and even Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. Using Video Event Management Software (VEMS) alongside these intelligent platforms proves to be a valuable verification process for many new and exciting vertical markets. Arteco plans to continue the revenue growth and brand awareness achieved in 2016 Event-Based Video Security Software At Arteco, our highest growth sectors tend to be slightly insulated from economic fluctuation in the sense that we focus on securing critical infrastructure (electrical utilities and communications) as well as corporate and education campuses. Unfortunately, the continued growth in active shooter incidents have made physical security concerns top of mind for many organizations regardless of economic impact. The unexpected repercussions are that many new security technologies are emerging that cater to real-time event notification on both the macro and micro level. The exciting part of this trend is that users are leveraging a layered approach with multiple autonomous applications working together toward a common goal to improve security, which will hopefully ensure a high level of protection.  Business Growth And Challenges Business has continued to grow year-over-year, and 2016 was a huge step forward for Arteco not only in terms of revenue growth, but also increased brand awareness in the United States and abroad. Our biggest challenge continues to be the crowded VMS market, which is filled with lower cost or even free substitute products. We are making great strides in overcoming this challenge by having a wonderful team of people, both on the technical and sales side of the organization, who are focused on finding new and innovative ways to advance intuitive, open and affordable event-based and intelligent video security software into 2017. See the full coverage of 2016/2017 Review and Forecast articles here

With more than 50 percent of U.S. households projected to use smart home technology by 2023, Interlogix, a provider of security and life safety solutions, is ready with an array of security platforms that support smart devices and links to top interactive service providers. Interlogix is a part of Carrier, a provider of innovative HVAC, refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies. “We’re uniquely positioned to meet the demands of the smart home segment that’s expected to nearly double over five years,” said Michael Chiavacci, general manager, Interlogix, North America. “Our flexible, integrated hardware platforms offer a variety of connected, smart devices that seamlessly integrate to proven service providers.” Enhance Lifestyle Convenience Interlogix has reinvested in its UL-listed, professional-grade, security panel lineup and added two touchscreen controls. In addition, it is providing access to more device integrations – such as sensors, lights, locks, thermostats and garage door controls, video doorbell cameras and voice-controlled digital devices, among others. Homeowners can design a smart home system to meet their needs today, with the peace-of-mind that they can easily expand functionality" All of these systems can be managed or monitored via a single smart home app. For example, new devices such as the Interlogix Command Button, enhance lifestyle convenience by wirelessly triggering up to three different, simultaneous automations within the home. “Our range of platform and service solutions make Interlogix a smart choice,” said Chiavacci. “Homeowners can design a smart home system to meet their needs today, with the peace-of-mind that they can easily expand functionality if their needs grow and change.” Encrypted Wireless Communication Interlogix solutions are professionally installed and configured through a nationwide network of security and smart home dealers to ensure each home has a customized solution that fits each homeowner’s needs. Many of these solutions will be displayed at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Booth visitors can preview a new line of door and window sensors, key fobs and pet-motion detectors that provide encrypted wireless communication between devices and select control panels. See many of the Interlogix solutions for home security and automation on display at the Pepcom Digital Experience, Jan. 7 in the Mirage Hotel and Jan. 8-11 in booth #40531 at the 2019 CES in Las Vegas.

Interlogix, a provider of security and life-safety solutions, introduced TruVision Navigator version 8.0. This latest release of the popular unified security software includes enhanced video streaming capabilities, integration with the Interlogix UltraSync Modular Hub systems and tighter integration with IFS networking switches. Interlogix is part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. The TruVision Navigator version 8.0 system is now a 64-bit application that supports a separate graphics processing unit (GPU) to provide smoother rendering of live and recorded video. The powerful updated software lets end users display more than 50 full-resolution mainstream video tiles. The embedded device manager setup tool enables TruVision Navigator 8.0 users to easily discover TruVision devicesIntegration with the UltraSync Modular Hub panels and Interlogix security sensors provide alarm notifications directly from intrusion system components to the user interface. The increased connectivity with IFS switches allows the system to remotely recycle specific ports to reboot connected cameras for troubleshooting. Better Performance And Additional Integrations “Users can now manage an entire family of connected Interlogix security platforms including TruVision video, TruPortal access control, UltraSync intrusion and IFS network switches,” said Edward Hamilton, video product management leader – Americas, Interlogix. “This software update provides greater performance and additional native integrations to meet a wider range of end-user security and performance needs.” The embedded device manager setup tool enables TruVision Navigator 8.0 users to easily discover TruVision recorders, cameras, TruPortal and UltraSync panels and IFS network switches when configuring the system. Once configured, each component’s icon can be dragged and dropped on a computer map interface to help users manage facilities at a glance. Users can also interact directly with different parts of the system, such as opening a door or accessing a camera by double-clicking on the icon. Insight Into Operations Pop-up live video on event monitor when triggered by an alarm eventThe IFS switches help users better manage their systems by providing additional insight into operations such as bandwidth usage of connected devices. The latest release also allows users to create their own device names for easier identification. The TruVision Navigator system builds upon its robust video application and with this release launches additional features such as: Pop-up live video on event monitor when triggered by an alarm event Built-in TruVision 360o camera de-warping Task scheduling and main video stream control that helps reduce bandwidth needs during peak network traffic periods Automatic health diagnostic service to maintain system uptime. “With its powerful new video streaming capabilities and added integrations, the TruVision Navigator 8.0 unified security solution is well-positioned to manage small- to mid-commercial applications such as warehouses, schools or multi-store franchises,” said Hamilton.

The schedule and speaker line-up for the Electronic Security Association’s (ESA) 2019 Leadership Summit – the strategically efficient event for leadership teams within the electronic security and life safety industry – has been announced. The event will be held in Austin, TX from Jan 28-31, and will feature a variety of education and networking opportunities. On the main stage and in classroom sessions, the industry’s leaders will engage with speakers whose expertise comes from sales, marketing, leadership and military backgrounds. This eclectic line-up is intended to expose leaders to insights and best practices from outside the industry bubble and increase their effectiveness in all aspects of their businesses. Learn Best Practises Through Practical Sessions Attendees will experience breakout sessions, where they can take a closer look at key topics“To drive the efforts of an operation, there must be a strong team at the helm — guiding the strategic vision. They must quell complications between employees and departments and motivate and maximize the diverse strengths of individuals. “When we skip out on this time to develop and bond with our leadership team as a unit — not just catching up on production updates, but on our vision, and the impact our interactions have on our people — we make a big mistake,” says ESA CEO, Merlin Guilbeau. “We are keenly focussed on packing the most valuable experience into 3 days to ensure leadership teams are energised, motivated, educated and revamped for the new year. Guests will learn best practices through practical, inspirational sessions including ‘How Great Managers Retain Employees’, ‘Mission Critical: The Leader’s Performance Review’ and ‘Guiding the Customer Journey’. Attendees will also experience breakout sessions, where they can take a closer look at key topics and discuss their questions and ideas in depth. Robust Networking Platform In addition to education, attendees will have ample opportunities to network at meals, scheduled one-on-one meeting times, social events and a speed networking event. These opportunities will allow executives to connect and share best practices, form friendships and find new offerings for their customers. This year the event will introduce a new, robust networking platform to link executives with each other This year the event will introduce a new, robust networking platform to link executives with each other and event sponsors on topics of interest to make for more meaningful and strategic interactions at the Summit. All of this will take place in the unique city of Austin, TX, known for its live music, food trucks and commitment to ‘Keep Austin Weird’. The Diamond Event will be held at Spin, a recently opened ping pong social club, where attendees can get competitive or cheer their friends on in a lively atmosphere with music, drinks and food. Excellent Growth Opportunity “Leadership Summit is an opportunity to share with friends that you’ve had from years past, make new friends, meet new colleagues and share some of the things that you’ve been doing with your business,” says Roger Parks, executive director of business development at Select Security. “If you’re considering attending the Leadership Summit, stop considering. The time you invest in your people and your business will be returned back to you thousand-fold.” All C-suite and upper-management professionals in the electronic security and life safety industry are invited to attend, regardless of ESA membership status. Interlogix is the sponsor of the 2019 Diamond Event and main stage featured content. Main stage presentations and breakout educational sessions are also sponsored by Axis Communications, NAPCO Security Technologies and Telguard.