Door security

Camden Door Controls, a provider of door activation and locking devices, is pleased to introduce its new CM-CPC1 Clear Protective Cover. Vandal and weather resistant, these low profile, clear lift covers are designed to protect any Camden flush mount, single gang, door activation device, including push/exit switches, keypads and key switches – without limiting the operation of the device. The CM-CPC1 is supplied with a gasket and is suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Protection From Rain And Dust CM-CPC1 heavy-duty polycarbonate covers protect single gang door activation devices from rain and snow outdoors and, in harsh indoor environments, protect devices from water, dust and chemicals. They’re also an ideal solution in vandal-prone applications, where false activation of a device or damage is anticipated. Camden offers the industry's most extensive range of ABS plastic and metal boxes, enclosures and trim rings for flush, semi-flush and surface mounting. ABS plastic models are flame and vandal resistant and ideal for use with wireless door control transmitters.

Marks USA, a division of NAPCO Security Technologies, is pleased to announce the debut of Style by Marks new interactive website featuring customisable ArchiTech Access Control Locks and matching interior tubular locksets. Ideal for use with architects and designers, etc., who want their access control and locking ‘look’ to be as welcome as the security they provide, the website allows site-visitors to be the designer of their own custom locks and then easily spec and share it with other parties via email. The mobile-friendly site can be easily used on smart phones and tablets, too. Multi-Technology Readers Marks' self-explanatory website showcases ‘Style by Marks’ customization capabilities with over 300+ finishes, levers, trims and applications in mortise & cylindrical locks. Website-visitors can pick their choice of application, such as a multi-tenant condo or office, and/or common areas, bedroom, bathroom, gym or office door, in cylindrical or mortise lock and then choose a lever style, rose, finish, ID reader, door color and more. Wireless ArchiTech Access Control Locks can be customized with choice of multi-technology readers Wireless ArchiTech Access Control Locks can be customized with choice of multi-technology readers; or new concealed readers, in standalone, networked or enterprise models all providing Networx ArchiTech’s max. battery life and Grade 1 durability for low maintenance. Exceeding Industry Standards Furthermore, to complete the overall ‘Vision’ for the building or campus, the site also allows ‘trying out’ interior locket looks in a variety of application ‘scenes’ to make selections for all door types, i.e., for passage, privacy or dummy application requirements. Once the design is ready for review, the custom lock design can be easily priced, spec’d and shared among all involved parties with a simple click of the mouse via email. Despite budget-savings over other top brands of as much as 40%, the extensive line of Marks USA products are all available in more styles, functions and formats, plus custom locking, across their numerous product categories, meeting or exceeding industry standards and in Grade 1 & 2 options: Mortise, cylindrical, tubular, ornamental iron, custom, architectural plus exit devices & door closers.

Camden Door Controls, a provider of door activation and locking devices, is pleased to announce the expansion of its Lazerpoint RF product line. New introductions are the CM-TXLF-1LP Lazerpoint RF recessed one-button key fob and the CM-TXLF-2LP Lazerpoint RF recessed two-button key fob. While Lazerpoint RF fobs have always been designed for ADA applications, these new fobs are now also ideally suited for security/access applications. In addition, they cannot be accidentally activated while in pocket. When used in conjunction with Camden’s CM-TXLFB key fob base, they can be mounted on a wall or desk or on a belt or car visor. Just some of the benefits of the Lazerpoint RF family of wireless products are transmission ‘hops’ over multiple bands to overcome interference; shorter wave length able to penetrate smaller gaps in building materials; up to 10 times the range of typical narrow band wireless products; and longer battery life than any other system.

CDVI, global access control manufacturer firm, announced new innovative products to its extensive range of access control solutions. From Bluetooth keypads and stylish DESFire readers to their ATRIUM Online Access Control, this one-stop-shop offers its UK and Irish customers cutting-edge and efficient solutions for private and public buildings.   “Our experience as an access control manufacturer truly makes CDVI the installer’s choice. Thanks to innovative products answering installers’ needs, CDVI remains after 20 years a major player in the English security market.” – Daniel Phillips, UK Product Manager, CDVI. Bluetooth-Enabled GALEO Keypad The award-winning GALEO keypad now features a Bluetooth connection With strong innovation and stylish design, CDVI’s new products have already been well received in the security market. The award-winning GALEO keypad now features a Bluetooth connection. Its phone app (available on iOS and Android) provides installers and end users with a fast and reliable method to control the keypad and pin codes available. SOLSYSDW DESFire Reader The SOLSYSDW DESFire reader gives an anytime status of the door through multi-coloured LEDs and links back directly to CDVI’s ATRIUM Online Access Control system, giving installers and end users an efficient and secure door control solution.

Boon Edam Inc., a pioneer in security entrances and architectural revolving doors, is proud to announce that their Speedlane Lifeline optical turnstiles have been certified as compatible with the new iRox-T Turnstile Reader from Essex Electronics. “Our Speedlane Lifeline optical turnstiles with the integrated iRox Turnstile Readers deliver a multitude of benefits to users,” said Kurt Measom, Vice President, Technology and Support, Boon Edam Inc. “This integration is one more way Boon Edam continues to create solutions to address the growing demands for security in busy lobbies without sacrificing speed or functionality.” Support For Multi-Technology Applications Supported technologies include standard proximity, iCLASS, iCLASS SE and MIFARE, DesFire, and EV1 & 2 for a range of access control manufacturersBy integrating iRox-T readers with powerful embedded HID iCLASS SE technology, Speedlane Lifeline turnstiles offer users a greater readability range with support for multi-frequency, multi-technology applications including HID’s most secure SEOS technology. Supported technologies include standard proximity, iCLASS, iCLASS SE and MIFARE, DesFire, and EV1 & 2 for a range of access control manufacturers. The low profile of the iRox-T readers allow for optimal placement in the Speedlane Lifeline turnstiles to support maximum convenience and throughput. This support of multiple technologies makes the Speedlane Lifeline optical turnstiles ideal for use in multiple-tenant applications, because each organization can use their preferred access credentials. This approach also supports simple migrations from existing low-frequency card systems to the latest, most secure credentials available today to strengthen and enhance facility security.

ASSA ABLOY UK, a division of ASSA ABLOY Group, the global provider of door opening solutions, has unveiled its new name, with the business now being known as ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland. The new business descriptor reflects ASSA ABLOY Group’s on-going commitment to strengthening the ASSA ABLOY brand, and helping its customers to better understand the organization’s solutions, services and capabilities. Alongside the launch of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, the Group has also launched two other business descriptors – ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems and ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions which will be gradually introduced in UK & Ireland, and globally. The change will enable the company to maintain a segmented and focused approach, easily guiding customers to the division that is best positioned to help meet their needs, while ensuring ASSA ABLOY continues to grow as a recognized brand. Renaming Of Other Business Units In line with the introduction of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland, the business units that form ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions in the UK, are also being re-named to better meet their customers’ requirements and provide clarity to their offerings. Security Solutions and Access Control will now combine to create the Door Hardware & Access Control Group Security Solutions and Access Control will now combine to create the Door Hardware & Access Control Group. Meanwhile, UK Specification will be renamed as the Project Specification Group, and Security Doors will now be simplified to the Door Group. These three Groups will also join the newly-formed High Security & Safety Group, which includes the renowned Chubb Locks Custodial Services and Pickersgill Kaye brands, which will also transition to ranges from ASSA ABLOY. The company’s well-known global brands, such as Yale, Abloy and Mul-T-Lock remain the same. Communicating Knowledge, Expertise With Customers Tina Hughan, Marketing Director for ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions in the UK & Ireland, explains: “The launch of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions will help us more clearly communicate our knowledge, experience and expertise to our customers. The new business descriptor encompasses what we offer in a simple, easy-to-understand way, while our new business unit names will help make it easier for customers to do business with us. “We are always focused on what we can do to improve the customer’s experience. We believe this approach will help strengthen our existing offering and consolidate our position in the market as a world leader, so we can better support our customers.”

The extensive analysis and discussion preceding any decision to implement a new physical security solution – whether it’s hardware, software or a combination of both – often focuses on technology, ROI and effectiveness. When it comes to deciding what type of security entrances to install at your facility, you will almost certainly also consider the aesthetics of the product, along with throughput and, if you’re smart, you’ll also look into service concerns. Each of these factors has its important place within the evaluation process, and none should be overlooked as they all have a significant effect on how well your entrances will perform once they are installed. Culture Influences Door Solution Decisions How significant will the change from current entrances to security entrances be for employees? Still, one additional factor actually trumps everything: if you have not considered your organization’s culture in choosing a security entrance, you may be missing the most important piece of the puzzle. Culture is a part of every other decision factor when selecting an entry solution. Before you make a decision about what type of entrance to deploy, you need to consider and understand the values, environment and personality of your organization and personnel. For example, how significant will the change from current entrances to security entrances be for employees? If people are accustomed to simply walking through a standard swinging door with no access control, this will be a culture change. Beyond this, whether you are considering a type of turnstile, a security revolving door or possibly a mantrap portal, simply walking through it will be a significant change as well. Training Employees On Door Security You’ll want to know whether employees have ever used security entrances before. If these types of entrances are in place in another part of the facility, or in a facility they’ve worked in at an earlier time, the adjustment will not be as great as if they’ve never used them at all. Consider, too, how your personnel typically react to changes like this in the organization or at your facility. They may be quite adaptable, in which case there will be less work to do in advance to prepare them. However, the opposite may also be true, which will require you to take meaningful steps in order to achieve buy-in and train employees to properly use the new entrances.  With the increased importance of workplace security, discussing new entrances with  workforces will help maintain a safer environment Communicate Through The Decision-Making Process All of this will need to be communicated to your staff, of course. There are a number of ways to disseminate information without it appearing to come down as a dictate. Your personnel are a community, so news about changes should be shared rather than simply decreed. As part of this process, you’ll need to give some thought to the level of involvement you want for your staff in the decision-making process. Finally, do not overlook the special needs among your personnel population. You undoubtedly have older individuals on staff, as well as disabled persons and others who bring service animals to the office. Entrances need to be accessible to all, and you never want to be in the position of having a gap in accessibility pointed out to you by the individual who has been adversely affected. New Security Entrance Installation By communicating early and often with your personnel, you can alleviate a great deal of the anxiety Once you have made the decision about which security entrances to install, training your personnel on how to use the new security entrances – both before and after the installation – will help to smooth the transition. Because workplace security is such a big issue right now, it makes sense to discuss the new entrances in the context of helping to maintain a safer environment. They will prevent violent individuals from entering, decrease theft, and most of all, promote greater peace of mind during the workday. If you can help them take control of their own safety in a responsible way, you have achieved much more than just a compliant workforce. By communicating early and often with your personnel, you can alleviate a great deal of the anxiety and concern that surrounds a significant change in the work environment. Schedule Group Meetings Consider your employees; what type of communications do they respond best to? A few suggestions to educate staff on the benefits of the new entrances include: Typically, you would communicate a general message 2-3 months in advance and then provide more specific information (for example, impacts to fire egress, using certain entrances during construction) in a follow up message closer to the installation date. Schedule group meetings to: announce the rationale for increased security, share statistics on crime, review the new security changes that are coming, show drawings/photos of the new doors/turnstiles, and show the orientation videos available from the manufacturer. These meetings are an excellent way to work through user questions and directly address any concerns. Once the installation of a new security system is complete, it is a good idea to have an "ambassador" on board to help employees use these new systems Ensure You Monitor Public Areas If you are implementing a lot of new changes, such as a new access control system, new guard service and security entrances, you might consider hosting a ‘security fair’ on a given day and have the selected vendors come for a day with tabletop displays to meet employees and answer questions during their lunch. This could be a great way to break the ice in a large organization. Make user orientation videos (provided by the manufacturer) available in several ways, for example: Intranet Site Monitors in public areas—lounges, cafeteria, hallways, etc. Send to all staff as email attachments Immediately after installation, once the doors or turnstiles are operational but before they are put into service, train ‘ambassadors’ on how to use the door/turnstile. Have these people monitor and assist employees during peak traffic times. What Is The Ultimate Success Of The Installation? By communicating clearly and openly with your population you can greatly facilitate adoption and satisfaction If you have thousands of employees, consider dividing them into groups and introduce the new entrance to one group at a time (Group A on Monday, Group B on Tuesday, etc.) to allow a little extra orientation time. Place user education ‘quick steps’ posters next to the door/turnstiles for a few weeks to help employees remember the basic steps and guidelines, e.g., ‘stand in front of the turnstile, swipe badge, wait for green light, proceed.’ Ask your manufacturer to provide these or artwork. While there are always going to be people who are resistant to change, by communicating clearly and openly with your population you can greatly facilitate adoption and satisfaction. Your responsiveness to any issues and complaints that arise during and after the implementation is equally fundamental to the ultimate success of the installation.

Today’s security industry technology standards create a common framework for achieving predictable performance. Systems are made more secure and easier to install, use and integrate with other devices. Standards are also intended to be living documents, open to continual refinements to benefit manufacturers, integrators and end users. An excellent example is the Open Supervised Data Protocol (OSDP), which is now the industry’s gold standard for physical access control installations. It was designed to offer a higher level of security with more flexible options than the aging defacto Weigand wiring standard. Updating OSDP-Readers Simultaneously One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and software updates to thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneouslyOSDP, first introduced in 2011 by the Security Industry Association (SIA), continues to evolve with significant manufacturer input. One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and/or software updates to a few or thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneously. Weigand technology requires updates to be made one at a time at each reader. Regularly changing reader encryption keys is an excellent way to enhance facility security. It’s easy using the OSDP file transfer capability and the latest DESFire EV2 credentials containing multiple encryption keys. You can transfer the next code on the card to all readers and the job is done. And there’s no need to create a new card for each user or reprogram each individual reader. AES-128 Encryption Ensures Cybersecurity It’s time to migrate entirely away from Weigand technology. If greater security, convenience and reduced labor from the latest OSDP updates isn’t reason enough, here are a few more things to consider. The 40-year-old Weigand protocol provides no signal encryption, making it easy for hackers to capture the raw data transmitted between cards and readers. OSDP readers support AES-128 encryption while providing continuous monitoring of wires to guard against cybercriminals. Weigand reader installations require homerun cable pulls from the control panel to each peripheral device. OSDP readers can be daisy chained, providing additional savings on cabling and installation time. Weigand technology is simply too slow to work with today’s most versatile and secure card technologies. OSDP readers work with virtually all modern access control cards. The OSDP standard also works with biometric devices; Weigand does not. Meeting Requirements Of FICAM Guidelines SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognized by the ANSI, a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businessesAlso, OSDP is becoming a must-have standard for organizations demanding the highest security levels. The standard meets requirements of the Federal Identity, Credential and Access Management (FICAM) guidelines that affect how the access control industry does business with the federal government. SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognized by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI), a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businesses. There’s still a large worldwide reader installation base that works solely with the Weigand protocol. Admittedly, changing them all at one time may be prohibitively expensive; however, standards should be viewed as a journey, not a destination. That’s why a measured migration is the right choice for many organizations. Begin by securing the perimeter. Replace only the outside-facing Weigand readers. As long as the walls are secured, the inside can remain a softer target until OSDP-compatible readers can be added indoors. The case for moving to OSDP as a standard is compelling. It offers our industry the opportunity to design access control software and products that provide what end users want most – greater security, flexibility and convenience.

Market dynamics are changing the U.S. residential security market, creating new business models that better appeal to the approximately 70% of households without a security system. Smart home adjacencies have helped revitalize the traditional security industry, and alternative approaches to systems and monitoring for the security industry are emerging, including a new batch of DIY systems. Growth in the residential security market and its position as the channel for smart home solutions have attracted numerous new entrants. Telecoms, cable operators, and CE (consumer electronics) manufacturers are joining traditional security players as they compete to fulfill consumer demand for safety and security. Connected products also provide a layer of competition as consumers must decide whether having category devices such as doorbell video cameras, networked cameras, and other products suffice for their security. Increasingly Competitive Landscape Smart home services can provide additional revenue streams for the security industry For instance, IP cameras are a highly popular smart home device rooted in security, and Parks Associates estimates 7.7 million standalone and all-in-one networked/IP cameras will be sold in the U.S. in 2018, with $889M in revenues. Product owners may feel their security needs are fulfilled with this single purchase, as such dealers and service providers are under increasing pressure to communicate their value proposition to consumers. Categorically, each type of player is facing competition uniquely—national, regional, and local dealers all have a different strategy for overcoming the increasingly competitive landscape. Smart home services can provide additional revenue streams for the security industry. In Parks Associates’ 2017 survey of U.S. security dealers, 58% report that smart home service capabilities enable extra monthly revenue. Almost half of dealers also note they have to offer smart home devices and services in order to keep up with their competition. While white-label devices are acceptable in some instances, dealers need to integrate with hero products whenever possible when those exist for a category. For dealers who have added smart home devices and services are all potential benefits and good for business Improved Customer Engagement That 2017 survey also revealed 36% of security dealers that offer interactive services report security system sales with a networked camera and 16% report sales with a smart thermostat. For dealers who have added smart home devices and services, enhanced system utility, increased daily value, and improved customer engagement with the system are all potential benefits and good for business. Security has served as the most productive channel for smart home solutions, mainly because the products create natural extensions of a security system’s functions and benefits, but as smart home devices, subsystems, and controllers expand their functionality, availability, and DIY capabilities, many standalone devices constitute competition to classical security. Particularly viable substitute devices include IP cameras, smart door locks, smart garage doors, or a combination of these devices. Products that are self-installed offer both convenience and cost savings, and these drivers are significant among DIY consumers—among the 6% of broadband households that installed a security system themselves, 39% did it to save money. Enhance Traditional Security Self-installable smart home devices may resonate with a segment of the market who want security While many security dealers believe substitute offerings are a threat, some dealers do not find such devices an existential threat but instead view them as another path to consumer awareness. They argue that the difference between smart product substitutes and traditional security is that of a solution that provides knowledge versus a system that gives one the ability to act on that knowledge. A common theme among professional monitoring providers is that a homeowner who is aware of events happening in the home does not necessarily have a secure and protected household. For example, a Nest camera, a DIY product, notifies a consumer via smartphone about events in the home when it detects motion, but only when the notification is opened and identified will a consumer be able to act on the related event. Self-installable smart home devices may resonate with a segment of the market who want security but are unwilling to adopt professional monitoring; however, providers can leverage these devices to enhance traditional security features and communicate the value of professional monitoring.  Smart home devices and features, while posing a threat to some security companies, are a potential way forward to increased market growth Increased Market Growth A key counterstrategy for security dealers and companies is to leverage their current, powerful role as the prime channel for smart home devices. Many security dealers now include smart home devices with their security systems to complement their offerings and increase system engagement. For example, as of Q4 2017, nearly 70% of U.S. broadband households that were very likely to purchase a security system in the next 12 months reported that they want a camera to be included as part of their security system purchase. In response, many security system providers now offer IP cameras as optional enhancements for their systems. Smart home devices and features, while posing a threat to some security companies, are a potential way forward to increased market growth. Security dealers have an opportunity to become more than a security provider but a smart home solutions provider rooted in safety. Provide Status Updates Comcast has entered both the professionally monitored security market and the market for smart home services The alternative is to position as a provider of basic security with low price as the key differentiator. Comcast has entered both the professionally monitored security market and the market for smart home services independent of security. It has discovered that monetizing smart home value propositions through recurring revenue becomes increasingly challenging as the value extends further away from life safety. Since the security industry remains the main channel for smart home services, security dealers are in a unique position to leverage that strength. Value propositions must shift from the traditional arming and disarming of a system to peace-of-mind experiences that builds off the benefits of smart devices in the home to provide status updates (e.g., if the kids arrived home safely) and monitoring at will (e.g., checking home status at any time to see a pet or monitor a package delivery). These types of clear value propositions and compelling use cases, which resonate with consumer and motivate them to expand beyond standalone products, will help expand the home security market.

Security is among the defining topics at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 this week in Las Vegas. More than 4,500 exhibiting companies are participating, including some 1,200 startups, highlighting the next wave of innovation in consumer electronics – and security. Twenty-four product categories at CES feature solutions to transform how consumers live, work and play. Technologies being highlighted include 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality, smart homes, smart cities, and machine intelligence. Video is an important element at CES. This year, the focus is on intelligent video. For example, Eyecloud.ai, Santa Clara, Calif., is displaying a home security camera with on-device face recognition that uses AI. Powered by a 12-core Intel Movidius VPU (video processing unit), the camera combines AI-on-the-edge with easy setup and wirefree operation for up to six months per battery charge. On-Device Artificial Intelligence On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation SimCam, an Intel partner, demonstrates how the Intel Movidius VPU can turn a security camera into ‘the ultimate vision-based sensor’. On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation. A variety of other residential video systems are also on display at CES. For example, Swann Security is displaying 4K wired security systems featuring Google integration, a wireless smart security camera with True Detect heat-based PIR (photo infrared) motion detection, a video doorbell and chime with two-way talk, and indoor and outdoor wi-fi cameras with Alexa integrations. Intelligent Automotive Solutions Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES. It combines advanced image processing, high-resolution video encoding and CVflow computer vision (video analytics) processing in a single, extremely low-power design. The CVflow architecture provides Deep Neural Network (DNN) processing required for a new generation of affordable and intelligent home monitoring, professional surveillance and aftermarket automotive solutions. CV25 offers half the performance of Ambarella’s previously released CV22 chip, but the new chip’s lower cost will bring intelligent cameras to a price point desirable for home systems. All Ambarella’s chips have hardware-based cybersecurity. A suite of advanced cybersecurity features protects against hacking, including secure boot, TrustZone, and I/O virtualization. Based on 10nm ultra-low power processing technology, the CV25 chip is optimized for wirefree cameras applications that require long battery life and small form factors. Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES Virtual Security Guards Elsewhere, the Deep Sentinel home security system applies video and AI to predict residential break-ins ‘before they happen’. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based tech startup uses ‘AI-infused security cameras’ to keep an eye on your home. Three wireless 1080p full HD cameras provide night vision and PIR motion sensing, connected by a smart hub. Using proprietary artificial intelligence, the cameras act as virtual guards, watching activity around a house and providing alerts to situations that may lead to burglaries, break-ins, package thefts and other dangers. My Safe Patrol is an AI-driven platform that analyses data aggregated from security personnel, citizen alert systems and IoT smart devices, and responds with geolocated alerts in real-time. My Safe Patrol effectively supports the security/safety ecosystem of a building, a campus, a city or a district through a dynamic dashboard that helps command and control operations manage and deploy security plans. AI-Integrated Devices Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously MicroVision, Redmond, Wash., showcases an interactive display engine for AI-connected devices, providing an integrated solution for projected display and interactivity through multi-point touch and air gestures. MicroVision’s new consumer 3D LiDAR engine provides high-fidelity spatial awareness to smart home hubs, for input to smart devices such as lighting, security, entertainment, and thermostats. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, and ThroughTek Co., Ltd., Taiwan, demonstrates IoT developments to transmit voice, video and data over both wide- and narrow-band channels in smart home applications. Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications combined with voice assistant to companion robots, wireless doorbells, and battery cameras to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously. Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen Decayeux Group, a European manufacturer of mailboxes and high security doors, is displaying MyColisBox, a secure and connected parcel box delivery system designed to provide online shoppers a secure pickup point accessible by a PIN code sent via SMS message to a smartphone. Walter is the new mobile app for MyColisBox. Kwikset, a division of Spectrum Brands, showcases its smart lock portfolio – including three new smart locks – in the CES Smart Home Marketplace. Kwikset is showing the SmartCode 888, Kwikset Convert, Obsidian, and new designs of the SmartCode 914 and SmartCode 916, as well as a new wi-fi lock. Baldwin, Kwikset’s ‘luxury lock’ sister company, is offering a preview of its new TouchScreen Collection, launching this summer, available in five styles and featuring Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen technology. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, with many companies demonstrating IoT developments Cyber Security Standards Privacy is increasingly a concern in the consumer space, and Private Discuss, from PIMAN Security, is a premium, secure, white label communication solution. Their active AI-powered defense architecture provides encrypted audio and video calls, messaging and file sharing. It renders a confidential, secure messaging platform that adheres to the highest standards of cybersecurity. FLIR provides virtual reality demonstrations at their CES booth, allowing attendees to put on a virtual fire helmet and try out a FLIR camera in a real-world residential fire response scenario. Participants may also use a FLIR optical gas imaging camera virtually to stop fugitive emissions in a natural gas refinery. Booth visitors may also take “thermal selfies” to post on social media.

When Linus Yale Sr. invented the pin tumbler cylinder lock, it was the start of an iconic security brand that would eventually be known all over the world. What began in a lock shop in Newport, N.Y., would eventually evolve into the global presence of the brand “Yale” that we know today. The Yale brand was purchased in August 2000 by the Swedish lock manufacturer ASSA ABLOY Group, which expanded Yale’s global presence in the ensuing years and recently has led the way into smart locks and building automation. This year, ASSA ABLOY is marking the 175th anniversary of the Yale brand. Global home security brand “People all over the world trust the brand to protect what they love most in their homes,” says Kate Clark, Managing Director of Yale EMEA at ASSA ABLOY. Although Yale has a successful commercial sector business in the United States, in the rest of the world Yale is a residential brand. The Yale brand is well known in 130 countries from Australia to the Czech Republic to Colombia, and is popular in Africa, too. In the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) market alone, Yale has around 20,000 products; that’s without counting products sold in the Asia-Pacific and Americas regions. Yale is familiar as a generic term for “lock” in some areas and is one of the largest home security brands in the world. Expansion Into Digital Locks Good old-fashioned cylinder locks still look nice and cost the right amount of money, so they are in demand “I think we stand for safety, quality and reliability, and that hasn’t changed,” says Clark. “It’s as important now as ever. We have tried to pioneer new technology in the industry, new innovations. The rate of acceleration has increased, and there are so many technologies we have to understand and work with.” Growing beyond its heritage in mechanical locking systems, Yale is now expanding into digital locks that can protect homes with a high level of security synonymous with the Yale brand. The current selection of locks includes partnerships with tech brands such as Nest Labs (Google) and Alexa (Amazon). There is a rapid acceleration of growth in the electro-mechanical lock market. But even as the focus expands to smart locks and partnerships with tech companies, Yale continues to dedicate time and resources to the design of their core mechanical products. Good old-fashioned cylinder locks still look nice and cost the right amount of money, so they are in demand. Yale padlocks and bike locks also keep the name top-of-mind. There’s an ongoing education process as home locks expand beyond the use of mechanical devices and even personal identification (PIN) codes. Beyond Mechanical Locks And PIN Codes “It’s important for people to know that we have been around a long time, and we want to celebrate that,” says Clark. “It’s a fantastic story around the brand and what we have achieved. Internally we have a lot of people doing a lot of great things with the brand. We inspire people working with the brand and show them that this is the pedigree, and it should be cherished. We are also raising awareness among younger people, so they know that we are still relevant.” We have an obligation to show people that the new technologies are just as secure as mechanical locks" There’s an ongoing education process as home locks expand beyond the use of mechanical devices and even personal identification (PIN) codes. “We have to take people on a journey,” says Clark. “We have an obligation to show them that the new technologies are just as secure as mechanical locks. If we eliminate PIN codes, we have to do it in a secure and safe way. Then suddenly access to your home can be made available by a company you trust.” Smart Home Security “We have a responsibility to do our best job with the new technology – it’s wonderful, but it needs to be used correctly,” says Clark. “I personally feel a responsibility to do that in the right way.” For example, in working with Amazon and Alexa to remotely authorize the delivery of a parcel to a home, concerns of security must be weighed carefully along with issues of convenience. “It’s important that we get the balance right,” says Clark. “We need to know the right person is giving the right voice command to lock a lock. We have to be true to our core as ‘security first.’” Will Yale be here another 175 years? Clark says she doesn’t expect to be around to find out but will do her best to preserve and promote the brand until she hands it off to a new caretaker.

The last day of Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Las Vegas proved to be the calm after the storm. But a slower third day could not undermine a largely successful 2018 show for exhibitors and attendees. Sometimes the success of a trade show isn’t measured by numbers of attendees (which were reportedly down again this year). Sometimes it’s the individual successes that make an impression. “Just learning about this made the whole trip worthwhile,” said one GSX attendee at the Johnson Controls booth, referring to the company’s new PowerSeries Pro intrusion devices. It’s the kind of feedback that makes the expense of exhibiting at a big trade show worthwhile. The new PowerSeries Pro is an extension of Johnson Controls’ existing line that is expressly designed for the commercial security market. The ‘hybrid’ (wired or wireless) device offers ease of installation and full cybersecurity including 128bit AES encryption with spread spectrum for no jamming or interference. It employs frequency hopping technology first developed for the Israeli defense force. Wireless Technology For Cybersecurity PowerG eliminates the need for wires by providing ‘invisible wired technology’, a marketing term that emphasises the cybersecurity of the product PowerSeries Pro uses PowerG wireless technology and expands the portfolio of PowerG devices from residential through commercial. For use in a wired solution, the main advantage is ease of installation; terminal blocks ‘pop out’ easily and can be wired and plugged back in. Alternatively, PowerG eliminates the need for wires by providing ‘invisible wired technology’, a marketing term that emphasises the cybersecurity of the product – wireless at the same level of cybersecurity as wired. Johnson Controls addresses three big factors with the product line: cybersecurity, user control, and easy installation and dependability. It’s part of Johnson Controls’ broader approach to provide ‘one-stop shopping’, enabling an end user to control their environments, video and access, and protect their contents, according to the company. Need For More Security In K-12 Schools In addition to reaching end users, lock company Allegion sees the show as an opportunity to meet with technology partners. “It’s great to bring together a concentration of people in the industry,” said Brad Aikin, Channel Led Business Leader, Integrator Channel. “We have had good conversations with technology companies here at the show in terms of partnering, both physical access control and OEM partners. We have also had good conversations with the integrator channel.” From speaking with education end users at GSX, Aikin sees a large unmet need for security in K-12 schools, more so than in colleges and universities. “K-12 is underserved,” he says. “They need to identify their priority of needs, and now they can serve needs they couldn’t before, both layering levels of security and phasing in implementation over time. Now things can be applied and tried out without disrupting the environment.” An example is the Von Duprin RU RM (Remote Undogging and Remote Monitoring) door exit devices, which are being integrated by access control partners Sielox, IDenticard and Vanderbilt. Intelligence is added to the door exit device to enable inexpensive monitoring of secondary, previously unconnected doors. The doors can be monitored and locked or unlocked at various points in the day. Lock company Allegion sees the show as an opportunity to meet with technology partners Bridging The Gap Between IT And Physical Security One exhibitor – ADT – noticed more information technology (IT) professionals accompanying their physical security counterparts at this year’s GSX exhibition. “They come along to kill dreams on the spot,” said Morgan Harris, Senior Director Enterprise Solutions, noting the IT department’s frequent hesitancy to add untrustworthy elements to the network. ADT is looking to transform and expand its 144-year-old brand in the commercial security space and has completed eight acquisitions in the last year to accomplish the goal. Some of the acquisitions build on ADT’s expanding cybersecurity initiative, which is both a fully-functioning stand-alone business and an effort to bridge the divide between IT and physical security. ADT is positioning itself to manage enterprise risk in the broadest sense. Combining IT And Cybersecurity The Internet of Things (IoT) is fuelling convergence but are we missing out on how to talk to each other and communicate effectively between IT and security?" “The Internet of Things (IoT) is fueling convergence but are we missing out on how to talk to each other and communicate effectively between IT and security?” asked Harris. “Projects have failed because information was lost in translation.” ADT seeks to have skillsets, experience and certifications on both sides of the issue. “It enables us to be the in-between,” says Harris. “We can blend the two together and be the translator. It’s great for both sides, advocating for security counterparts and for the network simplifies deployment and processes.” Harris sees a trade-off between cybersecurity and convenience in the industry. For example, if a manufacturer says they have a simplified process and only offers firmware updates once a year, cybersecurity suffers, he said. Lack of third-party testing is another way that manufacturers sometimes trade cybersecurity for convenience, at heightened risk to integrators and end users. Training Courses For Integrators And Partners Milestone Systems is expanding its level of involvement with integrator partners, and now provides Partner Business Reviews (PBR) to assess an integrator’s activities, sales and training, pipeline and marketing initiatives. The partner reviews often uncover issues that can be easily rectified through additional training, says Megan McHugh, Milestone’s Training Marketing Manager, Learning and Performance. Milestone uses a dashboard to track each integrator’s completed training courses and can point out additional courses needed to ensure an integrator partner’s success. Milestone offers a variety of in-person, e-learning and YouTube video courses to train installing partners, systems integrators and self-integrators on best practices Milestone offers a variety of in-person, e-learning and YouTube video courses (in 12 different languages) to train installing partners, systems integrators and self-integrators on best practices. ‘Cloud Labs’ are instructor-led online classes. All courses are linked to a variety of support resources. Sometimes a simple checklist accessed on a smart phone can ensure that every aspect of an install is performed and can instill added confidence in customers. The open platform company’s new agile development cycle – releasing multiple versions of XProtect software throughout the year – creates extra challenges to keep learning initiatives up to date. Along with each new release, various existing courses are updated. The concepts of “training and certification” are being replaced at Milestone with “learning and performance,” says McHugh. Milestone is also looking to hire 170 new R&D staff and open a new center in Barcelona (in addition to current R&D centers in Copenhagen and Sofia, Bulgaria). Making Camera Installation Easy Hanwha Techwin is another company that is seeing more interest in cybersecurity, as well as concern about whether a product is supported professionally. They have doubled-up production in South Korea and added capacity in Vietnam to avoid manufacturing in China. Thinking about their integrators, Hanwha Techwin is putting more emphasis on making installation easy. Installation costs may be up to 50 percent of a job, so easier installation frees up money to buy more or better cameras. With a new design of their cameras, an electrical contractor can now install the camera base and conduit, and then the integrator can easily plug in the camera later. Camera bases are common across multiple models, so a customer could switch out a 5-megapixel for a 2-megapixel camera later on if they want to (same housing plate). ‘Skins’ allow the color of cameras to be changed to match surrounding décor. “We are changing the idea of how people approach selling a camera, and it’s a whole new idea of how to install cameras,” said Tom Cook, Senior Vice President, North American Sales, Hanwha Techwin. Hanwha cameras can include a sound classification analytic to detect sounds such as gunshots Cameras With Sound Detection Technology Hanwha offers more flexibility in the field – interchangeable parts are packed together to enable configuration on site. And there is no need to stand on a ladder to position cameras; stepper motors help with remote camera positioning. Multi-sensor cameras have modules (combining lenses and sensors) that can be switched out at installation. Hanwha Techwin cameras can also include a sound classification analytic to detect sounds such as gunshots, screams or glass breaks, especially useful in K-12 education environments. Unification and the customer journey were a key emphasis for Genetec at GSX 2018. Unification for Genetec means combining multiple functions on one platform, from one vendor and using one source code. The company approaches the market by analyzing each customer’s journey as it relates to Genetec products. A typical customer journey involves (1) a company looking for standalone systems; (2) the need to centralize systems through integration and unification; (3) increasing automation and workflow; and (4) adding intelligence for more informed decision-making. “Genetec wants to get more in-depth with customers, be more comfortable with their business, and understand their challenges,” said Derek Arcuri, Product Marketing Manager. “We want to get naked with our customers.” Machine Learning Engine For Crime Prevention In the city of Chicago, Citigraf detects patterns in crime behavior and determines where a crime is likely to occur There was a big crowd at the Genetec booth, and not because the comment was applied literally. Genetec has divided itself into multiple parts, each focused on a vertical market such as retail or transportation. The approach is to operate as a ‘federation of startups’, with each market sector accountable to fill in the gaps in the portfolio to meet the specific needs of each vertical. For example, Genetec’s Citigraf is an unsupervised machine learning engine with an algorithm to detect anomalies and trends from a large pool of data in a municipal environment. In the city of Chicago, Citigraf detects patterns in crime behavior and determines where a crime is likely to occur. The system alerts operators in a bureau or area that has a higher risk level and should beef up the number of first responders. Chicago has seen a 39 percent decrease in average response time of first responders as a result. In the retail market, Genetec leverages the security infrastructure to analyze shopping trends and provide data for merchandising and operations. “Each customer is getting a portfolio of products tailored to the industry they are in,” says Arcuri. Demonstrating IoT Devices Axis Communications displayed its range of products at GSX, demonstrating its almost total transformation from an IP camera company to a supplier of a full range of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. “Axis is broadening its portfolio to include more solutions,” said Scott Dunn, Senior Director, Business Development Systems and Solutions. “Our success is driven by continuing to innovate our portfolio. The market is continuing to grow, and Axis is continuing to expand its market share.” Eight ‘Axis Customer Experience Centers’ around the United States help Axis stay close to their integrators, customers, partners and prospects. IP addressable audio speakers from Axis can provide music as a service, and then can be interrupted for audio messages on behalf of physical security Axis has offered access control IP edge devices since 2013, and now has a new A1601 door controller being sold with partner-only software (no embedded Axis software like previous A1001 devices). In audio products, Axis has a portfolio of speakers, intercoms, and public address systems. Acquisition Of IP Door Intercom Company Enhancing the audio line was acquisition in 2016 of 2N, an IP door intercom company headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic. In North America, the 2N team is now fully part of Axis. The line emphasises simple architecture, programmability, and the ability to integrate widely. The products use Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to integrate through the cloud or peer-to-peer. IP addressable audio speakers from Axis can provide music as a service, and then can be interrupted for audio messages on behalf of physical security. Retail, education and enterprise customers are gravitating to IP audio. An IP bridge can tie existing analog components into the IP system. For perimeter security, Axis offers a radar device to help eliminate false alarms, as well as thermal cameras.

3xLOGIC, Inc., a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions, and a three-time Deloitte Technology Fast 500 winner, working alongside Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale, is pleased to announce the completion of a highly-anticipated security system upgrade for Junior Achievement of South Florida (JASF) at the organization’s JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion (JA World). JA World is located on the Broward College North Campus in Coconut Creek, Florida. With over 60,000 square feet of learning areas, rentable meetings rooms, and the Huizenga Catering Kitchen, JA World is the largest Junior Achievement facility in the world. Each year, more than 21,000 5th grade and 20,000 8th grade students from Broward and south Palm Beach counties visit the facility. The 5th graders learn basic economic concepts, workplace skills, and personal and business finances in a simulated city built for young students; the 8th graders focus on how their educational choices will impact their future earning potential, managing a budget and learn about high growth industries to help spark their career exploration. The initial security system included remotely managed access control, verified audio intrusion detection, and analog camerasRequirement Of IP Camera Technology “Each day, 450 students participate in JA BizTown and JA Finance Park simulations at JA World. Their safety and the safety of our volunteers, staff, and guests is of the utmost concern to us,” said Laurie Sallarulo, President & CEO, JASF. Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale started working with JASF in 2008, in the early design/build phase of the facility, and through its completion in 2009. The initial security system included remotely managed access control, verified audio intrusion detection, and analog cameras. At the time, IP cameras were considered too expensive. “Previously, we had 18 analog cameras on the system,” explained Leni Smith, Director of Operations for JASF. “As time went on, it was clear that we needed to bring more areas inside and outside the building under surveillance, we wanted to access more cutting-edge IP camera technology, and we wanted to have all our surveillance under one Video Management System (VMS).” Installation Of 3xLogic Hybrid NVR Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale installed a 3xLOGIC hybrid NVR, enabling JASF to protect their analog camera investmentWorking in tandem, Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale and 3xLOGIC designed a system upgrade that, through a combination of discounts and donations, JASF could afford. It also helped that John Ray, President of Sonitrol Fort Lauderdale, is a long-time, active JASF Board member. In order to fit JASF’s budget, Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale installed a 3xLOGIC hybrid NVR, enabling JASF to protect their analog camera investment, while adding in higher-resolution IP cameras for expanded coverage. The hybrid solution also creates a migration path, allowing JASF to continue improving visibility with new IP cameras over time as their budget allows.  “As part of ongoing security and safety improvements, our staff participates in an annual active shooter training,” explained Monica McNerney, VP Operations, “and during those trainings, two things became clear. We needed to cover more areas with surveillance, and we needed to partner more closely with local law enforcement to give them real-time access to our system in case of an emergency.” Viewing Discrete Areas With VIGIL Software JASF has a number of discrete areas under surveillance and manages to view them through use of the 3xLOGIC VIGIL server softwareJASF has a number of discrete areas under surveillance and manages to view them through use of the 3xLOGIC VIGIL server software. These include the reception area, two loading dock areas, other exterior doors, their large meeting rooms, and the student areas, known as JA BizTown and JA Finance Park, where 450 young people spend most of their time each day at JA World. The receptionist controls public access to the building by viewing who is requesting entry, and buzzing that person in. The receptionist also monitors the loading dock area and notifies the appropriate staff member when a delivery has arrived. Leni Smith, who manages day-to-day security matters, reviews video after an incident is reported to her. “I really like how with the upgraded system, I can use motion detection alarms to hone in on exactly the video I need to review—I bet we’ve cut the time for review easily in half, if not more. I also really value how I can draw a box in a camera view and zoom into that area easily and quickly to find out exactly what happened.” Working With Community Partners We work very closely with our community partners to help them understand and access our facility and security system"Monica McNerney expanded on how the upgraded system is positively impacting another aspect of the JASF security program. “We work very closely with our community partners like Broward College security and local law enforcement to help them understand and access our facility and security system. We also routinely ask for their expert feedback on whether we’re managing our security effectively. “So far, they’ve told us we’re doing exactly what we need to be doing, and they’re excited about the expanded access they have to our camera views, although we hope that no event ever warrants that need.” TotalGuard Solution For Emergency Situations Jennifer Thomas, Vice President of Operations for Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale, also discussed continued improvements that are planned for JA World. “We are actively designing phase II of the camera upgrade, which will include improved coverage and image clarity for camera views outside the front doors. TotalGuard allows JASF personnel to alert the Sonitrol central station and transmit real-time audio and video to the monitoring center “We are also ready to deploy our latest technology for the main lobby area—TotalGuard. TotalGuard is a great solution for emergency situations, it allows JASF personnel to alert the Sonitrol central station and transmit real-time audio and video to the monitoring center, for prioritized verified police response.” Sallarulo had a final thought on how things have been going with the system upgrade, “As for Sonitrol of Fort Lauderdale, they always provide us an amazing response. As a non-profit, we could not do what we do without the help of partners like Sonitrol. We are very grateful for their support and service.”

As increasing digital engagement powers forward in the hospitality industry, SALTO Systems has joined forces with the KeezApp technology platform to offer hotels an unrivalled guest experience. Property Management Systems The KeezApp platform provides a range of solutions for any property that hosts guests and is able to integrate with most PMS (Property Management Systems) on the market. Guests can check in from anywhere, receiving a virtual key straight to their smart phone and getting an alert when their room is ready for occupation. The front desk is then alerted when the guest has used the mobile key to enter their room even for doors equipped with offline electronic locks. The virtual app provides for access to all permitted areas of the hotel during their stay and when the time comes to check out, guests can again use KeezApp removing the need to queue at reception. KeezApp – SALTO Software Integration KeezApp has implemented JustIN Mobile key access technology and interfaced it with SALTO front desk management software ProAccess SPACE Additional tools include live chat with the front desk. This provides a better, more efficient way for guests to talk and interact with the front desk whether they are in the hotel or out and about. Guests can also choose different departments to contact such as reception, concierge, housekeeping or room service depending on their needs. KeezApp has implemented JustIN Mobile key access technology and interfaced it with SALTO front desk management software ProAccess SPACE. SALTO Hospitality add-ons include functionalities such as mobile keys (BLE), group check-in; real-time re-rooming and real-time extended stay. These plus other key hotel features make it easy to control all the offline and online rooms and back-of-house doors from different front desk guest workstations. SALTO Electronic Locks Both companies are driven by the opportunity for hotels to provide a superior guest experience to their clients, whether by offering mobile functionalities or superior management standards like quick check-in and check-out, online billing, live chat with reception, housekeeping and concierge or auto Wi-Fi connection for guests. SALTO welcomes new partnerships with industry leaders like KeezApp that will result in improved hospitality management and the guest experience. SALTO also continuously adds integrations with other technology providers so that those in the hospitality industry have a choice when it comes to which platform, they use to control SALTO’s robust line of electronic locks and supporting products.

ProdataKey (PDK), an innovator of cloud-based network and wireless access control products and ASSA ABLOY, the pioneer in door opening solutions, announced the completion of a campus-wide security upgrade at Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary, North Carolina. Modern Systems, of Yadkinville, North Carolina, has installed a fully integrated wireless lock and access control solution securing 370 doors spread across the community’s main building entrances, public access areas, offices and residential apartment units. It makes use of ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio wireless locksets with PDK’s cloud access control software, providing administrators with the ability to remotely lock and unlock doors, set specific hours for maintenance workers’ access to buildings, continuously monitor door use, and easily retrieve system-wide reports. ASSA ABLOY IN100 Aperio wireless locks feature sleek readers integrated with the door hardware, helping to preserve the upscale aesthetic of Glenaire’s many buildings. Accessing PDK Software From Mobile Device System management of PDK software can be handled completely from any mobile device or computer browserThe system will continue to grow, with expansion to all electrical rooms, storage rooms, mechanical rooms and closets, bringing the total to approximately 650 doors, as well as another 190 apartments and 40 assisted living units. As new doors come online, they will appear within the completely scalable PDK interface with no interruption to service or administrative functions. System management of PDK software can be handled completely from any mobile device or computer browser. Modern Systems was able to upload the user database from Glenaire’s legacy access control system to PDK’s cloud servers, allowing residents to retain use of their existing cards, which previously were used only to open the front doors of main buildings. With the PDK/ASSA ABLOY system, they now use those same cards to access public areas and their own private residences. ‘Guest’ cards, with more restricted access, are available for residents to give to family or friends as appropriate. Customized card permissions have also been established for staff groups, including service workers, nursing professionals and dining staff. Integrating Security Solutions When a resident is missing, administrators will be able to quickly call up cameras from the last door where the resident used his or her access cardModern Systems plans to soon facilitate an integration between the PDK software and several other security solutions they have installed at Glenaire. Mapping between doors and surveillance cameras, which are part of a new Milestone Systems video management solution, will not only enhance security but assist with Glenaire’s missing resident protocol. When a resident is missing, administrators will be able to quickly call up cameras from the last door where the resident used his or her access card. They also plan to connect the facility’s Situational Awareness and Response Assistant (SARA) risk management solution and mass notification system, from Status Solutions, with PDK. This integration will be important both in campus lock-down situations, as well as to assist with entry for response teams during medical emergencies. Glenaire’s Director of Facility Services, Ryan Ferguson, says he was wowed by the cloud-based PDK solution, which he says, “has the most modern, up-to-date access control software of anything I’ve seen. In addition, we were able to install the wireless PDK/ASSA ABLOY solution in about half the time it would have taken to install a wired solution, and for about half the cost.” Protection From Cyber Vulnerabilities The fact that all updates and security patches are automatically installed, system expansion is pain-free and limitless"Cory Jackson, PDK’s Vice President of Strategic Sales, adds, “The Glenaire project demonstrates the many ways in which our cloud solution makes sense for enterprise scale customers. “The fact that all updates and security patches are automatically installed, system expansion is pain-free and limitless – even across multiple buildings or sites, we offer seamless integration with solutions from valuable partners like ASSA ABLOY and others, and the customer’s in-house network is not exposed to any potential cyber vulnerabilities, are all reasons that PDK is gaining traction with larger customers.” “Retirement communities like Glenaire face a very unique set of challenges. The ability to provide a sense of security to residents and their families while still creating an environment that feels like home is paramount,” says Caleb Allen, electro-mechanical specialist for ASSA ABLOY Door Security Solutions. “We were happy to offer them a solution that made it easy and affordable to install comprehensive access control throughout the facility.”

IDF Aluminum has installed transom closers, solenoid locks and hook locks from Alpro Architectural Hardware at a building in a historic section of London’s Finsbury Square. 4 Chiswell Street backs onto the Artillery Ground which has seen archery in Tudor times, some of the first organized games of cricket in the 1730s and even a hot-air balloon flight in 1784. The four-storey structure was refurbished by main contractor Parkeray to a design by Ben Adams Architects that created column-free office space with exposed concrete soffit and a signature golden mesh & grille facade based on curtain walling with bold circles. Automatic Voltage Regulation The glazing is unusual since the Reynaers’ curtain walling for the double-height reception uses innovative bracketry to support massive panes from Euroview Architectural Glass. The Alpro closers are on the distinctive gilt exterior doors and the client is also benefiting from solenoid bolts in the door heads. Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg Alpro transverse action deadlocking bolts offer high levels of physical strength with holding forces of up to 2,000kg, a bolt throw of 14mm and models with oversize pins. The advanced microprocessor module provides power reduction allowing for continuous operation without heat generation as well as automatic voltage regulation, dual monitoring and access control features to fully monitor and control movement. Installers can use housings from the same series for surface mounting which facilitates the securing of glass doors. Dress plates are offered for a clean finish. Public Sector Environments The 4 Chiswell Street refurbishment was carried out with tenants in occupation and even involved use of abseiling techniques to replace glazing. A temporary reception was created for access and egress. Daylight has been maximized and floor-to-ceiling height is used wherever possible in a design that meets the Equality Act and includes a revised fire strategy. IDF specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of aluminum doors. The door projects are often in business and public sector environments where usage may be high but maintenance costs must be minimised. IDF has 30 years’ experience in the shop front and commercial door market. The company ensures a quality service by designing and fabricating all of its doors and shop fronts in-house with no use of sub-contractors. The client portfolio covers transport, local government, healthcare and education from schools through to universities.

Boon Edam Inc., a global provider of security entrances and architectural revolving doors, announced that Utrecht University in The Netherlands has installed a custom-made, TQM manual revolving door at the entrance to the school’s newest addition, the Viktor J. Koningsberger building, dedicated to the faculties of Geosciences, Science and Medicine. Renowned Rotterdam-based architects, Ectory Hoogstad, were asked to create a building at Utrecht University that would serve as an addition to two other existing buildings: the Minnaert building and the Buys Ballot building. The new entrance had to be functional and recognizable, but also belong to the story of the building as a whole"Joost Ector, Director and Project Architect, explains, "All buildings had to be combined into one educational center for the science faculties. We solved that very simply by making a kind of 'loop' on the first floor; a circuit that runs through all the buildings. A new building has been added on the corner, and that is what has become the Koningsberger building. Through the 'walk', all buildings are now connected, and the students can easily walk from one building to another.” Functional And Aesthetic Entrance The central themes in the design of this iconic building are lightness, openness and transparency. These properties are reflected in the façade and play an important role at the main entrance. "Of course, we want you to be able to enter the cluster of buildings from all sides of the campus easily,” says Ector. “So the new entrance had to be functional and recognizable, but also belong to the story of the building as a whole. You walk down to the building, make that little turn through the entrance and then you suddenly see that the big atrium going up a hundred times. We just love that!" TQM Manual Revolving Door Once we decided to go with a manual revolving door, there was obviously only one name that stood out - and that was Boon Edam"When it came to selecting the entrance to the new building addition, Ector said his choice for the revolving door came naturally. “Once we decided to go with a manual revolving door, there was obviously only one name that stood out - and that was Boon Edam. We knew that Boon Edam made premium products and was capable of doing what we needed when it comes to these kinds of custom-made solutions. We came to our final solution after close consultation with their experts." The TQM manual revolving door installed at the Koningsberger building is nine meters (29-1/2 feet) high and is constructed almost entirely of glass. Nine-meter high rotating parts were not desirable, so a different solution was chosen. Installing Illuminated Cylinder A special tall, illuminated cylinder was installed above the revolving door for an impressive and recognizable appearance. "Our inspiration were old houses, such as canal houses,” explains Ector. “There is sometimes a kind of 'lantern' incorporated in the skylight above the front door in these old-fashioned homes. We utilized this in the TQM revolving door. “The cylinder was pulled upwards, and an illuminated element was manufactured. This constructed feature can be seen from both the outside and inside and serves as a beacon of light in the evening to help guide and locate the entrance.”

Door Group, a unit of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland has supplied a number of high security steel doorsets to Network Rail for the upgrade of its remote signal rooms. The project was commissioned through Kent-based trade customer Taylor Refit, who removed the existing doors and installed new high security steel doorsets certified to LPS 1175 security ratings from the Powershield range. Network Rail specified that the high security doors supplied needed to offer maximum protection to the remote rooms The upgrade comes as part of Network Rail’s plan to heighten the security level to its signal rooms following the recent vandalism. High Security Doors For Network Rail  Network Rail specified that the high security doors supplied needed to offer maximum protection to the remote rooms, while also providing a cost-effective solution. ABLOY Protec cylinders were also incorporated into the specialist locks throughout the sites. Due to the easy-to-install products, Taylor Refit was able to remove and install the security doors in just one day, resulting in minimal disruption to services. Superior Security Doorsets Chris Cole, Area Sales Manager (SE & London) for Door Group, ASSA ABLOY EMEA comments: “We are delighted that Network Rail gave us the opportunity to provide superior security doorsets to this project and we hope to build on our relationship in the future. We had to ensure that the doorsets we were supplying offered maximum security, as per the customer’s specifications" "We pride ourselves on supplying high quality products and we work closely with our customers to understand their specific requirements and to provide specialist and tailored solutions. We had to ensure that the doorsets we were supplying offered maximum security, as per the customer’s specifications.” Door Group’s work with Network Rail follows a number of high-profile contracts with Transport for London and Crossrail Limited. Brian Sofley, Managing Director for Door Group, added: “We pride ourselves on our portfolio of well-respected clients that choose to work with us time and time again. We attribute this to our comprehensive service offering and expert advice throughout each project.”

Using a smart phone as an access control credential is an idea whose time has come – or has it? The flexible uses of smart phones are transforming our lives in multiple ways, and the devices are replacing everything from our alarm clocks to our wallets to our televisions. However, the transformation from using a card to using a mobile credential for access control is far from a no-brainer for many organizations, which obstacles to a fast or easy transition. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: When will mobile credentials dominate access control, and what are the obstacles to greater adoption?

We are living in the age of Big Data, and businesses are inundated with large volumes of data every day. Success depends on capturing, analyzing and ultimately transforming that data into information and intelligence that can be used to improve the business. So, it is with today's physical access control and video systems, too, which also generate unprecedented levels of data. But how can we make the data useful to end users and how can they realize its full value? We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: Relating to physical security systems, what is the value of data and how can that value be measured?

Hospitality businesses work to provide a safe and pleasant customer experience for their guests. Hotels offer a “home away from home” for millions of guests every day around the world. These are businesses of many sizes and types, providing services ranging from luxury accommodations to simple lodging for business travelers to family vacation experiences. Hospitality businesses also include restaurants, bars, movie theaters and other venues. Security needs are varied and require technologies that span a wide spectrum. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of the hospitality market?