ACOEM - Experts & Thought Leaders

Acoem, a pioneer in advanced acoustic threat detection solutions, announces two software updates for its Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) Gunshot Detection System, introducing individual sensor-level elevation tuning and enhanced acoustic analytics to address anomalies that can resemble gunshot detection signals. False positives remain an operational challenge for organizations using acoustic threat detection across campuses, critical infrastructure, utilities and communities, particularly in environments where hills, buildings and other environmental changes that affect the surrounding skyline can complicate classification. For security teams, those conditions can mean more alerts to review and more time spent determining which events actually require a response. Accurately classify fireworks Acoem’s latest Cadence software release addresses this challenge by allowing administrators to set elevation and horizon thresholds for individual sensors based on their surrounding environment. This is useful in areas where loud noises like fireworks are common, as their acoustic characteristics can be similar to gunshots. The elevation threshold helps the system more accurately classify fireworks and other skyline noise as non-threats. Across larger deployments, administrators can also tailor individual sensors to local conditions rather than applying the same settings across an entire fleet. Acoem is also refining its AI methodology with changes to acoustic signal and noise analytics intended to further detect anomalies and reduce false positives. The update builds on the company’s data science expertise to improve how the system distinguishes potential gunfire from surrounding noise. Backend server infrastructure These changes provide better and more accurate information and build on existing Acoem ATD capabilities including: Dual-detection capability: Employs shockwave-enhanced muzzle-blast detection to analyze acoustic signatures, ensuring highly reliable gunshot verification across both urban and rural environments. 96-attribute analysis: Uses an onboard AI neural network to instantly analyze acoustic events and filter out ambient noise and urban distractions. Edge-based processing: Verifies threats locally at the sensor in real time, eliminating latency and reducing reliance on backend server infrastructure. PTZ camera integration: Instantly directs connected PTZ cameras toward the origin of a detected acoustic threat, delivering immediate visual confirmation for actionable situational awareness. Backend server infrastructure “The volume of security system alarms are one of the biggest drains on security resources today. This update highlights how we leverage our deep data science expertise to continuously evolve our technology alongside our customers,” said Mike ODea, Managing Director, Acoem ATD. “By giving teams the ability to adapt detection to their specific environments, we're delivering the most flexible, accurate acoustic threat protection available to keep communities and critical infrastructure safe.” The software updates will be available in Q4 2026 for existing customers and they will have the option to apply the updates through the Cadence software platform. System administrators will receive official release notes ahead of the rollout, with over-the-network updates delivered directly to edge sensors without requiring additional backend server infrastructure. To learn more about Acoem Acoustic Threat Detection or to schedule an environment-tuning presentation, visit acoemATD.com or contact Acoem ATD representative.

Acoem, a global pioneer in advanced acoustic threat detection solutions, announces the appointment of Mike ODea as Managing Director of its Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) business. ODea brings more than 20 years of experience in public safety and physical security, with a focus on using emerging technologies to improve situational awareness and decision support. An expert in Smart and Safe Cities, he has led major video surveillance deployments and complex security integrations, with a particular focus on combining data from multiple technologies to support operators and first responders. Public safety agencies At Acoem, ODea will lead the growth of the ATD business and work to expand the use of its ATD technology among system integrators, public safety agencies, and enterprise security organizations. Acoem ATD builds on more than 30 years of acoustic technology development for military defense applications by Metravib Defense in its Protection Division. The system uses edge-based AI to detect and locate gunfire at the sensor and immediately direct a PTZ camera toward the source, giving security teams visual context alongside the initial detection. Modern physical security ecosystem “We’re very pleased to welcome Mike to lead Acoem ATD at an important point in the growth of the business,” said Frédéric Molliex, DCEO, Protection Division. “He brings a strong understanding of how technologies such as video, AI and acoustic detection need to work together to give security teams and first responders better situational awareness. Mike understands both the technology and the operational realities our customers face. That makes him the right person to build on Metravib’s 30 years of acoustic expertise and accelerate the adoption of Acoem ATD as an integral part of the modern physical security ecosystem.” Threat detection capabilities “I’ve spent much of my career bringing technologies together to give public safety and security teams better information when they need it,” said ODea. “That’s what drew me to Acoem ATD. The ability to detect and locate gunfire, immediately direct existing cameras to the source, and give those managing the response real-time information they can use is where I see real value. There is a significant opportunity to make acoustic threat detection a more established part of the security technology stack, and I’m looking forward to working with our integrator and technology partners to make that happen.” ODea will make his first major industry appearance with Acoem ATD at GSX 2026 (booth 4366), where the company will showcase its latest acoustic threat detection capabilities.

At ISC West 2026, booth #28039, Acoem will showcase the latest version of its ATD Gunshot Detection system, featuring an expanded acoustic intelligence engine capable of analyzing 96 distinct attributes of a gunshot event in real time. The 96-attribute framework reflects how modern gunshot detection has moved beyond simple loud-noise thresholds. Each acoustic event is evaluated across a broad range of waveform, spectral, temporal, and ballistic characteristics, such as impulse shape, rise time, spectral content, and shockwave geometry. This allows the system to distinguish true gunfire from environmental noise with greater precision, even in complex outdoor environments such as parking lots, campuses, critical infrastructure sites, and public venues. Critical infrastructure sites By performing this analysis directly on a single AI-powered sensor, Acoem ATD delivers immediate, validated alerts without relying on cloud processing, backend servers, or multi-sensor triangulation. Detection, classification, and localisation occur at the edge, enabling actionable intelligence in real time. “Not all gunshot detection systems analyze sound the same way,” said Timothy English, Managing Director at Acoem ATD. “Having 96 unique attributes reflects decades of acoustic research and real-world data. It allows the system to evaluate the full anatomy of a ballistic event rather than reacting to a handful of characteristics. That depth of analysis is what enables faster decisions and greater confidence when seconds matter.” Immediate situational awareness Acoem ATD’s AI-powered sensor and Cadence software tightly integrates with video management systems, transforming detection into immediate situational awareness. Upon confirming a gunshot, the sensor automatically slews a connected PTZ camera to the source of gunfire using open standards (ONVIF-S). Security teams receive both audio validation and live video of the scene, without manual intervention or delay. This automated camera response is especially critical in outdoor environments, where fixed camera coverage and human monitoring alone often leave blind spots. By directing PTZ cameras instantly, the system ensures that critical moments are captured as events unfold, supporting faster response and stronger post-incident investigations. Mission-critical environments Shown for the first time at ISC West, Acoem has developed an on-prem version of its Cadence software for mission-critical environments such as utilities, government, and remote facilities, where outside internet connections are restricted for cybersecurity reasons. Unlike other platforms that centralize control, Cadence gives organizations direct autonomy to monitor sensors, validate alerts, and manage deployments in real time. Unlike legacy gunshot detection architectures that require multiple sensors arranged in fixed meshes, Acoem ATD localises threats with a single sensor by analyzing both the muzzle blast and the ballistic shockwave of a projectile. This approach reduces infrastructure complexity while extending coverage beyond traditional perimeter boundaries, including shots originating outside fenced or controlled areas. Protecting temporary events Because intelligence resides on the device, the system is well suited for both permanent and portable deployments. Sensors can be installed on existing poles, infrastructure, or mobile security trailers, making it possible to protect temporary events, evolving risk areas, or remote locations without redesigning the network or adding server capacity. Acoem’s edge-based AI architecture is designed for noisy, unpredictable environments. The neural network continuously evaluates acoustic conditions and applies advanced denoising and pattern recognition techniques to isolate true ballistic signatures. Maintaining operational effectiveness This reduces false alarms while preserving sensitivity to real threats, even when background noise levels are high. By avoiding continuous audio streaming and limiting recordings to brief, event-triggered clips, the system also supports privacy-by-design principles while maintaining operational effectiveness. ISC West attendees are invited to visit booth #28039 to see how 96-attribute acoustic intelligence, edge processing, and automated PTZ control work together to close the gap between detection and response.

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognizing that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organizations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customized, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialized hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardized protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organization has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasized that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

Gun violence remains one of the most unpredictable threats in today’s physical security landscape. When it strikes, seconds matter. The ability to detect and respond to gunfire almost instantaneously can determine outcomes. Security pioneers and first responders know this, and yet too many gunshot detection systems in operation today are shackled by outdated assumptions and aging architecture. The demand now is not for incremental improvements, but for a complete rethinking of how these systems function. Prevailing model For years, the prevailing model has relied on server-heavy frameworks and complex sensor networks that introduce unnecessary latency and complexity. Systems that depend on sending audio data to remote servers for analysis are inherently slower. In a live gunfire situation, waiting even a few seconds for confirmation can be the difference between life and death. The expectation in 2025 is clear: detection and actionable intelligence must occur in real time, with no delays. Edge-based intelligence: The new standard Deploying three or more sensors to cover an area imposes significant cost and operational burdens To minimize points of failure and latency, the future of gunshot detection lies in edge processing. Intelligence must reside inside the sensor itself, not in a data center or a remote server. Edge-based acoustic sensors can now detect and geolocate gunshots in under three seconds without external dependencies. They do not require triangulation or corroboration from multiple devices. One sensor, one shot, one instant location—that is the new standard. Consider the limitations of traditional perimeter-based systems. Deploying three or more sensors to cover an area imposes significant cost and operational burdens. Maintaining this infrastructure often means trade-offs in coverage and flexibility. For example, if a detection system can only triangulate within a ring of sensors, there will be no information available for shots fired outside this restricted perimeter, even from a short distance away. Worse, these older models are prone to false positives triggered by fireworks, construction noise, or other environmental sounds. Each false alert erodes confidence in the system and burdens response teams unnecessarily. Contrast this with modern edge-AI sensors that not only detect the muzzle blast of a firearm but also analyze the ballistic wave of a hypersonic projectile in motion. This dual-signature capability delivers a level of accuracy far beyond what older systems can offer. When a shot is fired, the sensor detects, classifies, and pinpoints the event almost instantly. There is no reliance on back-end processing or corroborative triangulation. The sensor acts autonomously and decisively. Real-time response with visual confirmation The level of integration changes gunshot detection from a passive alerting tool into an active part These advancements do not stop at detection. Integration with existing security infrastructure is crucial. Modern sensors leverage open standards such as ONVIF Profile S to control pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras directly. As soon as a gunshot is detected, the sensor can automatically cue a camera to the exact coordinates of the event.  This process happens in less than three seconds, giving operators live visual intelligence of the situation as it unfolds. The days of security personnel scouring multiple camera feeds or responding to vague reports are over. Today, they can focus their attention on the precise location of the threat. This level of integration transforms gunshot detection from a passive alerting tool into an active part of situational awareness. It provides command centers and first responders with actionable intelligence, enabling them to make informed decisions in real time. It is not enough to know that a shot was fired; security teams need to see where it happened and assess the scene immediately. Adapting to the environment Environmental adaptability is another area where modern edge-based systems excel. Acoustic detection has long struggled with ambient noise. Urban environments are filled with loud, impulsive sounds that can easily be mistaken for gunfire. However, edge-AI sensors can now be trained to understand the acoustic profile of their specific environment. They learn what constitutes normal background noise and adjust accordingly. If a venue frequently hosts fireworks displays or is situated near construction zones, edge-processed AI systems can be trained to differentiate those sounds from genuine threats. This site-specific learning dramatically reduces false positives and enhances overall system reliability. Flexibility in deployment A single intelligent sensor can now provide broad coverage with minimal setup Flexibility in deployment is equally important. Today’s security needs are not confined to permanent installations. Large public events, temporary venues, and rapidly evolving threat environments require portable solutions. Edge-based sensors can be deployed on mobile platforms such as trailers or temporary masts, providing high-precision detection wherever it is needed. Because all processing occurs at the edge, these mobile systems do not rely on centralized servers to function effectively. The sensor is the system. This shift represents a fundamental change in how security professionals approach gunshot detection. The industry is moving away from reactive, infrastructure-heavy models toward proactive, efficient, and adaptable solutions. A single intelligent sensor can now provide broad coverage with minimal setup. It detects, locates, and visually confirms threats autonomously. Interoperability further enhances the value of modern systems. By embracing open protocols, these sensors integrate seamlessly with existing video management systems (VMS) and security platforms. Organizations are no longer locked into proprietary ecosystems. They can deploy best-in-class solutions that work together harmoniously. This openness accelerates deployment and reduces friction, a critical advantage when securing dynamic environments on tight timelines. Privacy by design Alert signals contain location, timing, and sound type data only with no continuous listening Privacy concerns are front and center in any surveillance deployment and the thought of an audio listening device can raise eyebrows. Modern gunshot sensors are event-driven and only share short recordings (such as a 1.5-second clip for verification) triggered by gunshot levels (over 100 dB). Conversations and other ambient audio are neither captured nor stored. Alert signals contain location, timing, and sound classification information only with no continuous listening or streaming. Closing the gap between detection and response Ultimately, doing gunshot detection right demands a new mindset. Edge processing is not a technical novelty; it is an operational necessity. Security pioneers must expect and demand more from their detection systems—faster alerts, smarter filtering, real-time visual confirmation, seamless integration, and scalable deployment. The technology to achieve this exists today. High-accuracy, real-time gunshot detection is not a future promise; it is a present reality. The responsibility now lies with the industry to embrace this better way forward. Communities and the professionals who protect them deserve solutions that rise to meet today’s challenges with intelligence, speed, and precision.