Electronic Locks
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The cost-effective, hassle-free way to protect private rooms from public access. You don't have eyes in the back of your head. It is impossible to keep watch over every private door in a public-facing space: the storeroom in a shop or pharmacy, or the toilet for staff use only. That's when you need Code Handle®. This simple, secure, easy-to-fit handle with a built-in PIN-pad locks the door for you — with no wiring, no expensive access control system, no cumbersome keys and no major changes to your current door. Code Handle works with an electronic PIN code to make sure only authorised people, like staff, can unlock the door. Press a 4-digit code on the handle’s keypad and the door opens. Code Handle adds security and convenience to any private room adjoining a public area. Sure, you could continue using a key-operated lock on every door. But then you have to keep track of the key and remember where it is every time. For busy doors, chasing up keys becomes a full-time job. The solution is the simple, affordable Code Handle. You’ll receive a Master Code and up to 9 different user PINs. Code Handle has another trick up its sleeve. It locks itself when you close the door. Did you remember to lock up? Don’t worry, because Code Handle never forgets. Simple installation Upgrading doors is a snip, because Code Handle is easy to install and retrofit. It works together with your existing locking unit: keep the cylinder or lock and only change the handle to a battery-powered Code Handle. All it takes is two screws to fit a Code Handle to almost any interior door. No need to cable the door or connect it to the mains. No need to install a complex system. When do you need Code Handle? What is in your archives? Irreplaceable documents deserve an extra layer of security. Are your drug and medicine stores safely locked? An all-in-one secure PIN and door handle keeps casual intruders at bay — and keeps you on the right side of compliance. If your shop is busy, who keeps watch over the store room? Public areas with high traffic are hard to police when you can’t afford a security team. So, if your toilet is for customer use only, Code Handle keeps it locked without the hassle of a key. And what about the office? Surely not everyone on your floor should be reading the documents you left on your desk? Code Handle keeps sensitive files, private rooms, personal belongings or valuable stock separated and secure from the public. You can’t see what’s behind you. Thankfully, with Code Handle, you never need to. Learn more about Code Handle, visit: https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/codehandle
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As building security becomes smarter, the need for electronic access control systems spreads further. Wired access points and security doors have long been the backbone. Yet at the same time, even buildings with extensive electronic systems leave mechanically locked doors unmonitored and unguarded — and certainly not “smart”. Mechanical locks cannot be connected. Thankfully, the latest generation of wireless locks can replace them easily and integrate them seamlessly within almost any access system. A recent industry survey — cited in the “Wireless Access Control Report 2018”, from ASSA ABLOY and IFSEC Global — finds integration is an increasing concern. Over 90% of industry professionals polled for the report suggest integrating security systems with each other (and with other smart building systems) has increased in importance in the last few years. Integration is a recurring theme in conversations among professionals. For 53% of survey respondents, easy integration with CCTV, alarms, time and attendance, lighting and HVAC would make them interested in upgrading to a particular product — more than any other factor. Forty-three percent said easier integration with existing access control systems would make them more likely to upgrade. But why the focus on integration? What are the advantages? Why integrate? Fewer security interfaces are easier to support and so require less training. Integration can also enhance the experience of building occupants. One credential opens the car park, then the building, and accesses their laptop and buys lunch in the café. Integration across the business also means security systems — and security teams — contribute to business efficiency, not just the protection of people, premises and other assets. Integrate HR systems with your access control system, for instance, and smart access cards can be automatically revoked when people leave the organization, reducing overheads and even headcount. A majority of those polled for the “Wireless Access Control Report 2018” believe it very important (58%) that access control supports open standards in order to be flexible and future-proofed. A huge majority (91%) consider it at least somewhat important. Future-proofing is high on any list of procurement criteria. Will your system accommodate a changing business and the evolution of functions within it? Can you extend access control with components that contribute to, rather than detract from, the flexibility of all your building systems? The solution to extend access control Expanding the coverage of traditional locks can be expensive and intrusive. But one fast, easy and cost-effective alternative enables you to forget about keys and the hassles of key management: wireless devices like Aperio®, battery-powered locks with integrated RFID-readers. The aforementioned report cites growth forecasts for the wireless access control market of around 8% annually through 2025. The ease and cost-efficient integration wireless offers is surely driving this growth. Because Aperio® has an open architecture, it is flexible and modular, so those who already have wired access control and want to add more doors to their existing system find wireless is the solution. Aperio® wireless locks integrate with security systems from over 100 different OEMs worldwide, for new installations or to upgrade an existing system. Integration is seamless, extending the reach of an existing system with future-proofed devices. Security administrators operate the new Aperio®-equipped doors from the same interface as the installed system. Site users carry a single smart access card for all doors, and other functions like canteen payments or library loans are just as easy to integrate. What if your security system uses mechanical keys, without electronic access control? Wireless locks like Aperio® can also be the right solution. Battery-powered Aperio® RFID-equipped cylinders, escutcheons, handles and locks can be fitted as a new access control system, or extend an existing installation by linking new doors to the same system wirelessly. There’s no need for staff to swap their key-cards, nor for anyone to carry more than one credential. Aperio® locks work within almost every major access control ecosystem on the planet, from over 100 different manufacturers. They are energy-efficient, with batteries lasting an average of 40,000 cycles (typically 2 years) before they need replacing. “It’s easy to start the upgrade process,” says Matthias Weiß, Aperio® Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY EMEA. “Your security or facilities manager only needs to contact their regular access control provider to find out if they offer Aperio®. We can upgrade nearly any system.” Aperio® integrates access control — quickly and painlessly Installing wireless locks is also more cost-effective than hard-wiring more doors, because there’s no cabling or invasive building work around the door. Changing door hardware is unnecessary. For example, it’s fast and easy to switch a mechanical handle for an Aperio® wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, to bring more doors into an access system. (Installation takes mere minutes: see https://youtu.be/lr6Sw95qqm8) Aperio® devices with built-in RFID readers fit almost any opening or security level. Aperio® locks protect both exterior and interior doors, from fire and escape route doors to meeting rooms, labs and offices; wooden, glass or aluminum doors are no obstacle. The portfolio includes cylinders, escutcheons and complete locks for security doors, plus a revolutionary new wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, which recently won Intersec’s Access Control Product of the Year. Aperio® locks are compatible with all common door profiles: Euro, French, Finnish, Scandinavian and Swiss. Integration with your existing system can be Online or Offline, or both. Learn more about Aperio®, visit https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/aperio
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You can work smarter and more sustainably when electronic locks and keys power your security. An electronic locking solution minimizes security risks when keys go missing. With an eCLIQ system from ASSA ABLOY, you can manage everyone’s access from anywhere, at any time — electronically, securely and wirelessly. Based on award-winning CLIQ® access control technology, the eCLIQ system is built around precise locking mechanics and high-end microelectronics. A battery inside each programmable key powers the wide range of programmable cylinders and padlocks — and secures every data transfer. An eCLIQ system is also convenient. Thanks to multiple software options, you manage users’ access rights in a way that suits you best. Authorised key-holders carry a single, battery-powered key programmed with only their cleared access permissions. Low maintenance for technical components you can trust Robust and durable, eCLIQ cylinders are available for a wide range of doors, cabinets, lifts, alarm boxes, machines and entrance gates. Looking after your eCLIQ components is easy: an integrated lubricant reservoir ensures cylinders remain maintenance-free for up to 200,000 cycles. eCLIQ keys are durable, compact, and waterproof (IP67). They are easy to reprogram, enabling temporary and time-limited access permissions for every employee or contractor. AES encryption, rapid processing, and efficient energy management is built into the chip. When a key’s battery runs out, it is easily replaced without tools. Mechanical and encrypted electronic elements work together to make an eCLIQ installation highly resistant to both physical and electronic attack. Easy installation — simple, secure management Managing eCLIQ is straightforward. You can program keys with easy-to-use eCLIQ Manager software: choose between a local software installation or our secure web-based software which manages access rights from anywhere, in the cloud. Security managers can host the Web Manager software on their own or use ASSA ABLOY’s Software as a Service solution. Users can also update their own keys with a range of programming devices, including wall-mounted units. With eCLIQ, missing keys are quickly de-authorised, cutting risks associated with key loss or theft. At any time, facility managers can generate a full audit trail to discover who has accessed which locks. Unlike other electronic access control systems, eCLIQ uses no mains electricity. The microelectronics inside an eCLIQ lock are powered by a standard battery inside every key. Energy-efficient and sustainable, battery power also minimizes disruption when you switch to eCLIQ. Because there is no cabling around the door, you don’t need to schedule invasive, expensive electrical wiring. eCLIQ in action “eCLIQ is more durable, more secure and more efficient than conventional locking systems,” says Stephan Schulz, CLIQ® Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY EMEA. “This evolution of our award-winning CLIQ® technology is already protecting businesses and public services across Europe. A range of sectors and building types — from banks and hospitals to shops and warehouses — have learned eCLIQ provides the control and flexibility their premises need.” For an access control overhaul at University Hospital Frankfurt, managers sought a secure locking system for a new building: 1,100 eCLIQ cylinders and keys provided the solution. Now, with eCLIQ installed, nurses update access rights every morning for the day ahead. This new workflow minimizes security vulnerabilities and keeps everyone safer. Retail banking combines high security with complex workflows. Staff need efficient access. Facility managers need the flexibility to design access permissions around individual needs and clearances. Creval’s bank doors across Italy’s Lombardy region are now locked with more than 30 eCLIQ cylinders, putting managers in total control of entrance security. In the unlikely event a key is misplaced, Creval administrators simply delete it from the system. In Germany, eCLIQ locks AMPELMANN GmbH branches and their 2,200 m2 logistics centre, meeting the needs of their decentralized branch organization. Its 8 Berlin branches are staffed by several permanent employees. External service providers like cleaners need access. eCLIQ provides it — safely, securely and without major key-management workload. Learn more at: https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/ecliq
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SALTO Systems' latest electronic access control innovations include its class leading NFC (Near Field Communications) solutions, its RFID wireless products for Residential, Healthcare and Education applications, Sallis wireless technology for integrations and Clay™ SALTO’s new secure cloud based access control system that is revolutionary in design, usability and features. Other new innovations include the versatile GEO (Global Electronic Opening) electronic cylinder lock now available with a stylish white reader, as well as GEO Wireless. Modular, flexible and easy to fit, the IP66 rated SALTO GEO can be used in any type of door. Part of SALTO’s innovative 360° wire free locking solution, it is fully compatible with most RFID technologies meaning no more problems with master key management. SALTO also provides the XS4 electronic locker lock, now available with HiD iClass technology, and designed to provide a high level of security protection and control access to a wide range of lockers, cupboards, display cabinets, boxes, cases and more.
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As building security becomes smarter, the need for electronic access control systems spreads further. Wired access points and security doors have long been the backbone. Yet at the same time, even buildings with extensive electronic systems leave mechanically locked doors unmonitored and unguarded — and certainly not “smart”. Mechanical locks cannot be connected. Thankfully, the latest generation of wireless locks can replace them easily and integrate them seamlessly within almost any access system. A recent industry survey — cited in the “Wireless Access Control Report 2018”, from ASSA ABLOY and IFSEC Global — finds integration is an increasing concern. Over 90% of industry professionals polled for the report suggest integrating security systems with each other (and with other smart building systems) has increased in importance in the last few years. Integration is a recurring theme in conversations among professionals. For 53% of survey respondents, easy integration with CCTV, alarms, time and attendance, lighting and HVAC would make them interested in upgrading to a particular product — more than any other factor. Forty-three percent said easier integration with existing access control systems would make them more likely to upgrade. But why the focus on integration? What are the advantages? Why integrate? Fewer security interfaces are easier to support and so require less training. Integration can also enhance the experience of building occupants. One credential opens the car park, then the building, and accesses their laptop and buys lunch in the café. Integration across the business also means security systems — and security teams — contribute to business efficiency, not just the protection of people, premises and other assets. Integrate HR systems with your access control system, for instance, and smart access cards can be automatically revoked when people leave the organization, reducing overheads and even headcount. A majority of those polled for the “Wireless Access Control Report 2018” believe it very important (58%) that access control supports open standards in order to be flexible and future-proofed. A huge majority (91%) consider it at least somewhat important. Future-proofing is high on any list of procurement criteria. Will your system accommodate a changing business and the evolution of functions within it? Can you extend access control with components that contribute to, rather than detract from, the flexibility of all your building systems? The solution to extend access control Expanding the coverage of traditional locks can be expensive and intrusive. But one fast, easy and cost-effective alternative enables you to forget about keys and the hassles of key management: wireless devices like Aperio®, battery-powered locks with integrated RFID-readers. The aforementioned report cites growth forecasts for the wireless access control market of around 8% annually through 2025. The ease and cost-efficient integration wireless offers is surely driving this growth. Because Aperio® has an open architecture, it is flexible and modular, so those who already have wired access control and want to add more doors to their existing system find wireless is the solution. Aperio® wireless locks integrate with security systems from over 100 different OEMs worldwide, for new installations or to upgrade an existing system. Integration is seamless, extending the reach of an existing system with future-proofed devices. Security administrators operate the new Aperio®-equipped doors from the same interface as the installed system. Site users carry a single smart access card for all doors, and other functions like canteen payments or library loans are just as easy to integrate. What if your security system uses mechanical keys, without electronic access control? Wireless locks like Aperio® can also be the right solution. Battery-powered Aperio® RFID-equipped cylinders, escutcheons, handles and locks can be fitted as a new access control system, or extend an existing installation by linking new doors to the same system wirelessly. There’s no need for staff to swap their key-cards, nor for anyone to carry more than one credential. Aperio® locks work within almost every major access control ecosystem on the planet, from over 100 different manufacturers. They are energy-efficient, with batteries lasting an average of 40,000 cycles (typically 2 years) before they need replacing. “It’s easy to start the upgrade process,” says Matthias Weiß, Aperio® Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY EMEA. “Your security or facilities manager only needs to contact their regular access control provider to find out if they offer Aperio®. We can upgrade nearly any system.” Aperio® integrates access control — quickly and painlessly Installing wireless locks is also more cost-effective than hard-wiring more doors, because there’s no cabling or invasive building work around the door. Changing door hardware is unnecessary. For example, it’s fast and easy to switch a mechanical handle for an Aperio® wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, to bring more doors into an access system. (Installation takes mere minutes: see https://youtu.be/lr6Sw95qqm8) Aperio® devices with built-in RFID readers fit almost any opening or security level. Aperio® locks protect both exterior and interior doors, from fire and escape route doors to meeting rooms, labs and offices; wooden, glass or aluminum doors are no obstacle. The portfolio includes cylinders, escutcheons and complete locks for security doors, plus a revolutionary new wireless handle with integrated RFID reader, which recently won Intersec’s Access Control Product of the Year. Aperio® locks are compatible with all common door profiles: Euro, French, Finnish, Scandinavian and Swiss. Integration with your existing system can be Online or Offline, or both. Learn more about Aperio®, visit https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/aperio
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Electronic lock systems - Expert commentary
The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has made us all more conscious of who is coming and going from our property. Whether it is a family home, business premises or public building, property owners want full control over access for protection and peace of mind. As a provider of access control technologies, we are seeing a growing demand for automated gates with a variety of access control systems. There are a number of considerations that buyers need to make when investing. And as an installer, there is advice that you can offer to help your clients make the right choice for their property. Here are some of the key considerations you’ll need to make and discuss with your client. Whomever you buy from, you should be offered more than a simple instruction manual. Electronic locks, magnetic locks and code security In the first instance, you’ll need to advise on the type of lock and access control available. Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open. Locks are required for all non-locking (also known as reversible) operators and are recommended for any gate on a multi-user site or any gate over 2.5m. Apply the same logic to an automated gate as you would to a domestic door – for example, you wouldn’t fit your front door with a lock on the same side as the hinges or a drop bolt at the hinge end of a manual gate so why dispense with this logic when the gate is automated? Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks. These are all designed for external use. While the gate itself will provide physical security, the customer will want to feel in control of who enters their property, when and for what purpose. Consider access for mail and deliveries, waste disposal and visitors arriving on foot etc. There is a range of options available. Intercom systems will allow the user to vet visitors, keypad entry can allow remote access for visitors with a specific code, remote controls allow an oncoming driver to open the gates without getting out of the vehicle, and a timer control can be used to open or close the gates at certain times of the day. Vehicle detection loops can be installed discreetly under the tarmac allowing the presence of vehicles to exit the gates and prevent closing while obstructed. Sliding gates versus swinging gates There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks Gates can be automated to either swing or to slide open and in the case of swinging gates, the opener may be concealed underground or gate mounted. The most suitable opener for your installation will depend on the space available and the type of gate selected. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates. However, where gates are fully infilled (typical of many timber designs), gate mounted openers are concealed from the front of the gate by the gate leaf and present a cost-effective option. The choice between slide and swing is largely down to space - swing gates require a clear space for their opening arc while sliding gates require space to one or both sides of the gate. Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited, as they use the least space when opening. Voltage Most swing gate and sliding systems are available in 24v or 230v. The 24v systems still need 230v mains power – there is a transformer built into the 24v control panels. Deciding which voltage to use can include a combination of factors such as the material of the gates, the location of the system and the safety features you want. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates With wrought iron gates, the wind can pass through them whereas with fully boarded wooden gates (popular because they give full privacy) the wind has nowhere to go, so they act like sails. For commercial or industrial applications with larger entrances and a heavy gate, you may need 3 Phase 400v power (sliding gates only). Installing gate motors in confined spaces The environment in which you are fitting may well influence which gate and motor you recommend. Will it be in an exposed area which is subject to the elements? Will it be positioned on a slope? Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited Installers have always faced the challenge of installing gate motors in confined spaces. When fitting a pedestrian gate, there is often limited space in which to work – potentially making an installation time consuming and technically demanding. If this is the case for you, consider a gate operator which is designed specifically for installations with limited space for maneuver. An example of this is the E5 compact gate operator. The operator is not only small but has an optional slide lever attachment designed for installations where there is extremely limited space, meaning that just 8cm of the pillar is needed for installation. What’s more, improved fixing points and a simple ‘hook and fasten’ process means assembly is safe, quick and straight forward. Ultimately, you’ll be looking for a good quality, reliable product with good service. Work with a supplier that offers more than just a manual. If they are happy to offer training, their time and advice when you buy, the chances are you’ll get their support long term.
The safeguarding of premises through the monitoring of entrance and exit points has traditionally been a very manual aspect of security. Human operators have been relied on to make decisions about who to admit and deny based on levels of authorization and the appropriate credentials. The access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation But the access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation; one where the protection of premises, assets and people is increasingly delivered by interconnected systems utilising IoT devices and cloud infrastructure to offer greater levels of security and protection. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification, right through to complex networks of thermal cameras, audio speakers and sensors. These systems, connected through the cloud, can be customized and scaled to meet the precise requirements of today’s customer. And it’s the ease of cloud integration, combined with open technologies and platforms that is encouraging increasing collaboration and exciting developments while rendering legacy systems largely unfit for purpose. Remote management and advanced diagnostics Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution.Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution. For example, as the world faces an unprecedented challenge and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause disruption, the ability to monitor and manage access to sites remotely is a welcome advantage for security teams who might otherwise have to check premises in person and risk breaking social distancing regulations. The benefits of not physically having to be on site extend to the locations within which these technologies can be utilised. As an example, within a critical infrastructure energy project, access can be granted remotely for maintenance on hard to reach locations. Advanced diagnostics can also play a part in such a scenario. When access control is integrated with video surveillance and IP audio, real-time monitoring of access points can identify possible trespassers with automated audio messages used to deter illegal access and making any dangers clear. And with video surveillance in the mix, high quality footage can be provided to authorities with real-time evidence of a crime in progress. Comprehensive protection in retail The use of connected technologies for advanced protection extends to many forward-looking applications. Within the retail industry, autonomous, cashier-less stores are already growing in popularity. Customers are able to use mobile technology to self-scan their chosen products and make payments, all from using a dedicated app. From an access control and security perspective, connected doors can be controlled to protect staff and monitor shopper movement. Remote management includes tasks such as rolling out firmware updates or restarting door controllers, with push notifications sent immediately to security personnel in the event of a breach or a door left open. Remote monitoring access control in storage In the storage facility space, this too can now be entirely run through the cloud with remote monitoring of access control and surveillance providing a secure and streamlined service. There is much to gain from automating the customer journey, where storage lockers are selected online and, following payment, customers are granted access. Through an app the customer can share their access with others, check event logs, and activate notifications. With traditional padlocks the sharing of access is not as practical, and it’s not easy for managers to keep a record of storage locker access. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers. The elimination of manual tasks, in both scenarios, represents cost savings. When doors are connected to the cloud, their geographical location is rendered largely irrelevant. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers They become IoT devices which are fully integrated and remotely programmable from anywhere, at any time. This creates a powerful advantage for the managers of these environments, making it possible to report on the status of a whole chain of stores, or to monitor access to numerous storage facilities, using the intelligence that the technology provides from the data it collects. Open platforms powers continuous innovation All of these examples rely on open technology to make it possible, allowing developers and technology providers to avoid the pitfalls that come with the use of proprietary systems. The limitations of such systems have meant that the ideas, designs and concepts of the few have stifled the creativity and potential of the many, holding back innovation and letting the solutions become tired and their application predictable. Proprietary systems have meant that solution providers have been unable to meet their customers’ requirements until the latest upgrade becomes available or a new solution is rolled out. This use of open technology enables a system that allows for collaboration, the sharing of ideas and for the creation of partnerships to produce ground-breaking new applications of technology. Open systems demonstrate a confidence in a vendor’s own solutions and a willingness to share and encourage others to innovate and to facilitate joint learning. An example of the dynamic use of open technology is Axis’ physical access control hardware, which enables partners to develop their own cloud-based software for control and analysis of access points, all the while building and expanding on Axis’ technology platform. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification Opportunities for growth Open hardware, systems and platforms create opportunities for smaller and younger companies to participate and compete, giving them a good starting point, and some leverage within the industry when building and improving upon existing, proven technologies. This is important for the evolution and continual relevance of the physical security industry in a digitally enabled world. Through increased collaboration across technology platforms, and utilising the full range of possibilities afforded by the cloud environment, the manufacturers, vendors and installers of today’s IP enabled access control systems can continue to create smart solutions to meet the ever-changing demands and requirements of their customers across industry.
There’s no question that the popularity of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) security and home automation products is on the rise. The reasons for the growth in DIY sales are numerous, including increased awareness of home automation products, fast set-up, limited (if any) installation costs, and interoperability with other smart security products. In fact, with the parallel rise of smart home hubs like Alexa and Google Home, many people are opting to attempt the set-up of smart home devices without any professional assistance. According to a 2018 Residential Security Market Report prepared by Parks Associates and Security Sales & Integration magazine, “More than 60% of installing dealers now report that DIY systems are biting into demand for their services.” But the rise in DIY is not entirely bad news for security and home automation installers and dealers. There are a number of ways to view this glass as half-full. Let’s look at a few of them. Increase In Revenue For Dealers With their lower cost and perceived ease of installation, DIY products have broken down barriers for additional purchaseThere are reasons for dealers and installers to be cheerful about the rise of DIY. For one thing, according to that same Residential Security Market Report from Parks Associates, residential security dealers are doing quite well. The report states, “In 2017, revenues were up an average 7.72% for security dealers.” What about installations? The report goes on to say, “For 2017, the average number of installs per dealer was 22 per month, compared to 17 per month in 2016.” So, revenues are up for security dealers, and at least part of the reason can be attributed to the fact that DIY products can raise overall awareness of and spur interest in other home automation and security products. With their lower cost and perceived ease of installation, DIY products have actually broken down barriers for the additional purchase, and installation, of complete, professionally installed systems. Wireless, Connected Smart Locks For example, the sale of wireless, connected smart locks (viewed by some consumers as DIY) can lead to opportunities for further home automation product sales and professional installations. Connected smart locks can actually act as an extension of a smart hub or controller. They can be used to wirelessly communicate with and control all the devices that make up a home automation system, including lighting, entertainment, thermostats, air, alarms, shades and more. With their lower cost and perceived ease of installation, DIY products have actually broken down barriers for new security installations And they can do all this from a prime, convenient location – the front door, as well as other points of entry like the side or back doors. Plus, smart lock conversion kits like Kwikset Convert let homeowners easily bring home automation capabilities to their door without altering the aesthetics of the entry. Connected smart locks can allow homeowners to set up their home with custom scenarios, right before they step inside. For example, residents can program their lock so that every time they unlock the door, a foyer light goes on, temperatures begin to rise to a set level – even connected coffee makers can begin to make a cup. Portfolio Of Home Automation Products One of the best ways to mitigate the ‘threat’ of DIY sales is for dealers and installers to become more versatileSmart locks are just one example of the potential of DIY products to spark a homeowner’s interest in a wide range of other home automation devices, many of which would benefit from professional installation. One of the best ways to mitigate the ‘threat’ of DIY sales is for dealers and installers to become more versatile and offer a complete portfolio of home automation products. The larger the home automation offering, the more devices there are to sell and install, the larger the installation required, the greater the need for professional installation. Many homeowners who feel like they have a certain level of handiness will start by trying to do it themselves with a DIY product. But things don’t always go as planned, especially if they are attempting to set up a robust home automation system. First off, just because a product is DIY doesn’t mean that the old products that are being replaced are going to easily make way for the new. A DIY thermostat or smart lock might require that the old equipment (and possibly wires) get tugged out of the wall. Messy holes might need to be filled. Advantages Of Professional Installation Even after the old system has been removed, homeowners planning on setting up a connected system may soon realize they don’t have the electrical skills or technological know-how to install and connect all devices, get a system programmed correctly, and get everything up and running smoothly. Professional installers have learned from experience; there’s very little that they haven’t seen before. With their years of experience, installers know the best way to automate a home and how to create a custom smart home experience Do-it-yourselfers might be able to solve problems by searching the internet and finding videos. But, then again, they might not. After going the DIY route once, many full-home automation system enthusiasts are beginning to realize that the best way to get things done right the first time is to leave the installation and set-up to a professional. Professional installers can and should bring an extra level of experience and guidance to the process. Their services should go beyond tech installation and also include interface design. With their years of experience, installers know the best way to automate a home – how to create a custom smart home experience that doesn’t make the user feel less than smart. Selling Additional Home Automation Products If a problem arises due to installation error, the DIYer does not have any recourse to correct these mistakesResidential security dealers who offer professional installation should be willing to embrace the DIYer who has attempted to do a self-install but has not been able to complete the process successfully. With an open mind to this scenario, they can save the day for the DIYer, as well as create an opportunity to sell additional home automation equipment that the DIYer may not have known to be available. The disparity between DIY and professional installation also brings to light the fact that there are no ‘satisfaction guarantees’ and no ‘installation/labor warranty’ available when a home automation system is installed by a DIYer. If a problem arises with either the equipment connectivity due to installation error, or if a piece of equipment is installed incorrectly, the DIYer does not have any recourse to correct these mistakes. This may not be as critical if a DIYer installs a minor piece of equipment, but with something as critical as securing and protecting their home with a home automation and security system, most people want full peace of mind that everything has been installed correctly. Reduces Connection Instability According to a 2017 study by the analyst firm, IHS Markit, “The quality of the equipment is usually higher in professionally installed systems, and professional configuration and setup greatly reduces the potential for connection instability…” This is an issue that DIYers may come to realize over time. On the other hand, one issue DIYers may recognize right away, especially if they are attempting to connect multiple devices, is that the connectivity may be inconsistent. Professionally installed devices operating on a wireless protocol might deliver better, consistent, longer-range connectivity IHS Markit explains that, “DIY systems rely on open protocols and Wi-Fi connectivity that can sometimes be unreliable, creating connection issues. Some of the sensors can become unrecognizable to the system, requiring intervention from the user. In contrast, professional wireless systems rely on UL- or EN-certified equipment to operate on the basis of proprietary frequency, enabling them to work with the control panel much more seamlessly.” In other words, professionally installed devices operating on a wireless protocol, even an open-source protocol like Z-Wave, might deliver better, consistent, longer-range connectivity, and fewer headaches. Not Everyone Is A DIY Customer There are customers who want someone to install the devices correctly and help them learn how to use and maintain themThere’s no doubt that there’s a segment of the security and home automation market that loves to spend their free time doing their own home improvement. They are watching videos, reading how-to books and manuals, and enjoying every minute. There’s also a segment of the market whose top goal is to save money up front. For these customers, there’s no getting around the joy of saving money with the lower cost of many DIY products. But there are also a great number of prospective customers out there for whom DIY is of absolutely no interest. These consumers do not want to be their own IT department. They want expert help: they want someone to install the devices correctly and help them learn how to use and maintain them. The IHS Markit study points out what many home automation dealers already know: that the elder and aging-in-place markets are an ideal destination for the security and convenience of home automation products. The study says, “Many senior citizens are not tech savvy enough to install a DIY system by themselves, so they tend to rely on professionally installed systems that are usually maintained by a family member.” Along with the senior citizens market, there are many other market segments out there that still desire worry-free professional installation. Installers should offer a range of products that includes some DIY products, and some leave-it-to-a-pro products Producing Complete And Custom Solutions Perhaps the best way for dealers and installers to stave off that feeling of doom that they might have about DIY is to tackle the problem head on and be creative. Offer a range of products that includes some DIY products, and some leave-it-to-a-pro products – consider the DIY product a great entry point for a more comprehensive system. Play up the peace of mind that comes with professional installations and support that pitch with flexible monitoring contracts and service plans. Share what you do and why; relay your passion for producing complete and custom solutions and communicate how you add value to any and every sale. No one, not even the most tech-savvy consumer, wants to install their own products if the end result is that the product doesn’t work the way it should. That’s where the pros can, should and will always come into play.
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