Paul Hefty

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) make huge contributions to the economy overall. Considered individually, they may not be as large as companies in the enterprise market, but they have big requirements when it comes to security. SMBs also present unique challenges to security manufacturers and integrators seeking to serve their needs. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of protecting small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)?

The COVID-19 global pandemic had a life-changing impact on all of us in 2020, including a multi-faceted jolt on the physical security industry. With the benefit of hindsight, we can now see more clearly the exact nature and extent of that impact. And it’s not over yet: The pandemic will continue to be top-of-mind in 2021. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What have been the positive and negative effects of Covid-19 on the physical security industry in 2020? What impact will it have on 2021?

We are several weeks into 2021, and it is already shaping up to be an eventful year. The happenings and trends from 2020 will likely carry over into the new year, but in a fast-moving industry such as ours, there will also be additional trends to watch. Looking toward the year ahead, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the biggest security trends in 2021?

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) make huge contributions to the economy overall. Considered individually, they may not be as large as companies in the enterprise market, but they have big requirements when it comes to security. SMBs also present unique challenges to security manufacturers and integrators seeking to serve their needs. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of protecting small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)?

The COVID-19 global pandemic had a life-changing impact on all of us in 2020, including a multi-faceted jolt on the physical security industry. With the benefit of hindsight, we can now see more clearly the exact nature and extent of that impact. And it’s not over yet: The pandemic will continue to be top-of-mind in 2021. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What have been the positive and negative effects of Covid-19 on the physical security industry in 2020? What impact will it have on 2021?

Aiphone, the renowned international manufacturer of intercom and security communication products, has added the IXG-MK IP Video Guard Station to its robust portfolio of solutions in its IXG Series Multi-Tenant Video Intercom System. The IXG-MK provides visitors a convenient way to call a building’s concierge, receptionist, or security guard directly from the entrance station. This is helpful when visitors are unsure how to reach a tenant or if they are simply trying to deliver a package to the front desk. Once safe intent has been determined, calls can then be transferred to the proper apartment or suite, or the door unlocked for deliveries. Clear video identification “Perimeter security is more important than ever, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and increased interest in occupancy management,” said Paul Hefty, Technical Sales & Support Engineer, for Aiphone Corp. “This additional layer of security will ensure only approved visitors will be allowed inside, keeping tenants and building assets safer.” Those screening visitors can choose either hands-free (VOX) or full duplex (handset) communication The IXG-MK offers flexibility and simplicity to end-users with a seven-inch touchscreen for clear video identification, video communication between guard stations, call recording, and the ability to forward calls directly to a tenant. Those screening visitors can choose either hands-free (VOX) or full duplex (handset) communication. Touching the key button will activate the door release associated with the connected entrance station or door station. Network-Based communication platform An ideal solution for any multi-tenant housing or office facility, the IXG-MK can have up to 9,999 units in its address book and will maintain a history of calls received. The IXG Series Multi-Tenant Video Intercom solution is a sophisticated, streamlined way to connect a variety of mixed-use buildings. This series is a complete network-based communication platform offering a variety of options for any multi-tenant security application. Throughout 2020, Aiphone will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary in North America by thanking customers, dealers, integrators, and employees for providing the opportunity to develop and improve better security and communication solutions.

Aiphone, a manufacturer of intercom and entry security products, has announced Johnson Controls’ approval of Aiphone IX Series video intercom integration with its latest Software House C•CURE 9000 access control and event management platform. Adding the integration package allows all IX Series video intercom components to be used within the Software House C•CURE 9000 platform. IX Series door intercom events can create changes on a C•CURE 9000 visual site map and trigger third-party devices. All events and state changes are recorded in C•CURE’s journal to provide an audit trail of intercom and door activity. Customizable Network-Driven Integration The software integration package includes a complete set of customizable icons. Adding an icon to any pre-configured C•CURE system map allows real-time status updates. Updates can indicate if the IX Series device is on or offline, or if a call has been placed or answered as well as show the level of placed calls, triggered events, and perform system health checks. Since the IP-based IX Series is network driven, there is no need for extra wiring to achieve integration. Once the software is loaded, the C•CURE 9000 system will automatically locate IX Series equipment. End users can customize the integration to meet their specific needs. Improved Security Management “We’ve responded to our many C•CURE 9000 customers who have requested this integration,” said Paul Hefty, technical support and sales engineer II for Aiphone. “Combining C•CURE 9000 access control and event management with the Aiphone IX Series, delivers improved overall security management.” “This new partnership aligns with Johnson Controls’ vision to add mission-critical solutions to our portfolio of integrations through our Connected Partner Program,” said Scott McNulty, senior product manager at Tyco Safety Products, Johnson Controls. “The program brings together industry-leading solutions, providing a platform for partners to promote and market their value-added, third-party solutions throughout Johnson Controls’ brands on a global scale.”