Security access systems

ISS – Intelligent Security Systems, a global provider of intelligent Video Management Systems (VMS) solutions with natively developed analytics, announces the launch of a new Partner Portal. The new secure Partner Portal, ISS One, is designed to help increase ISS partners’ sales and profitability with enhanced support services. ISS One allows authorized channel partners to be part of a select group of professionals offering ISS’ industry-leading SecurOS Video Management System (VMS) and portfolio of intelligent analytics. Combining VMS And Analytics Solutions The new ISS Partner Portal provides registered partners with numerous benefits including: a support ticketing platform“ISS continues to experience exponential growth world-wide, and we attribute this to offering the best combination of advanced VMS and analytics solutions along with outstanding support for our partners,” said Aluisio Figueiredo, CEO of ISS. “ISS continues to enhance both our technology offerings and partner support programs so that our growing roster of partners can cultivate and capitalize on new sales opportunities with existing and new customers.” The new ISS Partner Portal provides registered partners with numerous benefits including: a support ticketing platform; ability to register installed systems for quicker support; a download center for quick access to all SecurOS technical and sales documentation; access to the latest SecurOS release announcements; company’s extensive knowledge base; details on the SecurOS Guarantee; and 5GB of personal cloud storage for resellers to store project related documents.

Vigitron, Inc, the manufacturer of complete networking solutions designed for security applications announces major new product releases for ISC West 2019. These products cover areas of PoE Midspans, Network Health Monitoring, Testing and Installation Tools, Building Infrastructure and Network Switching. Reliable And Cost-Effective Products “Vigitron continues to lead as a comprehensive source of networking solutions,” stated Neil Heller, Vigitron’s Vice President of Business Development. “Several years ago, we expanded our engineering team to include software and firmware developers in addition to our existing hardware engineers. We continue to work with major hardware providers in the areas of IP cameras, access control, and LED to develop products resulting in the most reliable and cost-effective performance. “In addition to our advanced engineering and product development, Vigitron continues to lead in the support areas with our Design Center team providing dealers with complete bills of materials designed for their specific applications.” Vigitron’s new products will be on display at ISC West booth # 8130, April 10-12, at the Sands Convention Center, Las Vegas.

Genetec Inc., global technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions has announced that Mercury Security, part of HID Global, global player in the OEM access control technology segment, awarded Genetec the highest level in their partner program, Platinum Premier. The Platinum Premier status recognizes Mercury's select business partners who demonstrate continued market growth, strong integration with Mercury solutions, and shared interest in the open architecture approach to access control. Mercury Security Platinum Premier Partner “As a Mercury Security partner and reseller since 2014, we take pride in having achieved Platinum Premier status in just a few short years. Mercury is a key partner in the development of our access control strategy as we are aligned in our efforts to provide innovative and cyber-secure access control solutions based on an open architecture,” said Georges Tannous, Director of Strategic Alliances at Genetec. Genetec has demonstrated significant growth with the Mercury brand of products over the last several year" "Genetec has demonstrated significant growth with the Mercury brand of products over the last several years. This growth coupled with their continued investment in the open platform philosophy drove the well-earned recognition as a Platinum Premier partner. Genetec-Mercury Security Collaboration We look forward to working together with the Genetec team to deliver open, scalable and secure solutions to our collective end users.,” said Matt Barnette, Vice President at Mercury. According to the 2017-2018 Access Control Intelligence Database by IHS, Genetec has rapidly risen to become one of the leading developers of access control software with a top-5 ranking in the Americas and a stronger global market share growth.

User authentication deficiencies, endpoint data leakage and excessive user permissions are the three most common cybersecurity risks facing health systems and hospitals, according to new data from Clearwater CyberIntelligence Institute. At the HIMSS19 Global Conference and Exhibition, February 11-15, 2019 in Orlando, Florida, ELATEC will be demonstrating its uniquely flexible radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, which mitigates these issues by strengthening user authentication for access control applications. With RFID, medical personnel simply swipe the same badges they use to gain entry to the building for fast and easy access to the records Access control is critical for healthcare institutions in order to protect patient safety and meet stringent HIPAA requirements for medical information privacy. Radio frequency identification (RFID) readers are an effective and efficient means of user authentication to ensure that only authorized personnel can access patient health records, change settings on medical devices or gain access to restricted medications, equipment or supplies. Better Security Than Passwords RFID readers are more secure and easier to manage than passwords, which are easy to share and often forgotten, creating both security risks and an unnecessary IT burden. Password systems also slow down medical personnel, requiring them to remember and enter passwords into different devices, often under emergency conditions or extreme time pressure. With RFID, medical personnel simply swipe the same badges they use to gain entry to the building for fast and easy access to the records, supplies and equipment they need to perform their jobs. ELATEC readers are already widely used for secure print management and other healthcare ecosystem applications such as time and attendance, computer single sign-on, room scheduling, pharmaceutical and high-value supplies dispensing, and medical equipment access control. Recognize 60+ RFID Proximity Card Transponders ELATEC RFID readers can recognize and decode more than 60 RFID proximity card transponder types as well as smartphone BLE and NFCThere are dozens of RFID card technologies in use globally, creating challenges for hospital systems and device manufacturers wishing to implement RFID for access control beyond the front door. While other systems only recognize a few proprietary technologies, ELATEC RFID readers are universal. They can recognize and decode more than 60 RFID proximity card transponder types as well as smartphone Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Near-field Communication. They are also certified for use in 110 countries. This means that large hospital systems that may be using multiple card technologies across different locations due to mergers and acquisitions can rely on a single reader type for access control and user authentication for all the other devices and systems they use. For medical device manufacturers and software developers, ELATEC readers provide a ‘single part number solution’ that allows them to sell their RFID-enabled devices into practically any hospital system throughout the world without worrying about what kind of card technologies their clients may be using. Cost-Efficient And Longer Durability "We describe ELATEC’s readers as being future proof,” explained John Tepley, President of ELATEC USA, Inc. "There are numerous technologies used for various applications throughout the region and the world, which means companies that want to integrate RFID into their solutions must be prepared to handle many different RFID transponder technologies. ELATEC is uniquely positioned to meet these challenges." ELATEC readers can be easily and remotely reconfigured to address emerging technologies, security threats and end-user requirements ELATEC readers can be easily and remotely reconfigured to address emerging technologies, security threats and end-user requirements, so they are inexpensive to maintain and will remain usable longer than competing reader technologies. As the healthcare ecosystem becomes more connected and complex, and the FDA puts increasing emphasis on cybersecurity risks for medical devices and software applications, developers need smart, easy solutions to close security vulnerabilities around user access and authentication. RFID provides fast, easy and secure authentication for all kinds of medical devices and applications. ELATEC readers can help developers meet emerging security challenges and address the needs of their healthcare clients.

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.

MedixSafe, a manufacturer in the access control cabinet market, is pleased to introduce the KARE XL. The 36”H x 14”W x 9”D Key Access Ready Enclosure has an increased key storage capacity of 192 – 224, depending on the configuration. It’s an ideal solution for dealers and integrators to specify for security directors and end users of all kinds to safeguard - and track access to - sensitive keys. KARE XL connects to an existing access control system and features an HID or Multi Class reader that will read iClass, RFID and Mifare cards. Limiting Access A key override is built right into the electronic lock. It has a Wiegand output, so KARE XL can be easily connected to any access control panel. This next generation KARE offering was created in response to increasing customer demand for a KARE cabinet It gives the user control over their keys by limiting access only to authorized users and also provides an audit trail of who has accessed keys and when. This next generation KARE offering was created in response to increasing customer demand for a KARE cabinet with an even greater capacity to store critical keys. Large Clear Windows The KARE XL comes with 224 colorful key tags with large clear windows for labels. Included are 224 Key Tag Holders which can hold multiple keys or sets of keys. Each key tag snaps open, so that names and/or numbers of keys can be inserted for easy identification. "MedixSafe is committed to delivering the very best in key control to safeguard critical contents, including keys, pharmaceuticals, guns and other sensitive items that require an access control solution," says Jim Turner, President, MedixSafe. "The KARE XL can be connected to an access control system, and users can use their own existing access control cards and software to control who has access to the cabinet."

The access control industry tends to be more conservative when it comes to the adoption of new technology and services for end users, but that doesn't mean that 2019 won't provide a significant amount of progress through emerging trends taking shape in the industry. In addition to the increased adoption and acceptance of the cloud, mobile credentials and biometrics are becoming more mainstream, and integrations between manufacturers will take centre stage. Here, we take a look at these and other trends helping to shape the coming year. Cloud-Based Products We're continuing to see a demand by end-user customers for customized responses to certain actions within an access control system For many access control manufacturers, the core of the business is in more traditional products, with a high percentage of installs continuing to be these kinds of projects. However, over the last couple of years, cloud-based products have emerged as a viable option for customers. We've seen more of a willingness for end-user customers to inquire whether this is an option for them, citing ease of use, remote management, cybersecurity and more as part of their foray into this branch of access control. The cloud has established its reputation as being quicker to install, more flexible for customers to access and manage both their access points as well as the video associated with these doors, and placing less pressure on internal (or in some cases, non-existent) IT teams to help set up and manage an access control system. Mobile Credentials Applications We're continuing to see a demand by end-user customers for customized responses to certain actions within an access control system. For example, if there's an alarm set off during the day along a perimeter, the ability to automatically execute a lockdown and simultaneous email or message to everyone within the building alerting them to the issue is critical. The desire for this kind of flexibility within a system is prompting manufacturers to build new simple to use graphical tools into their systems that allow customized action responses that are proportional to the level of alarm. There's a strong desire by many of today's companies to be able to use mobile phones for access control and as such, manufacturers are either developing their own mobile credentials applications or integrating their systems with these kinds of products. Over the last couple of years, cloud-based products have emerged as a viable option for customers Future Of Biometrics As companies start to ask about whether their facilities are safe enough, they're often more willing to consider access control that takes security to a new level, such as the implementation of biometric readers. Biometrics is getting more usage in professional security applications and many customers want to move away from using physical cards for access control. Manufacturers that don't currently have biometric hardware in place are starting to integrate with readers designed to offer this functionality in an effort to meet the demands of customers. The dramatic rise in facial recognition biometrics is something that will likely shape the future of biometrics as costs start to decrease. While the access control industry is highly fragmented, we're seeing a trend toward increased partnerships and open-platform technology that helps end users achieve the kind of comprehensive security that they desire. Video Management Platforms We're seeing a trend toward increased partnerships and open-platform technology that helps end users achieve the kind of comprehensive security that they desire For example, there are a number of access control providers that are providing paths toward full integration with lock manufacturers and vice versa in an effort to meet the needs of clients who may have purchased locks but a high powered access control system to properly manage them. There's also a large shift toward full integration with video management platforms and access control systems to fully integrate the two into a single, user-friendly experience and give end users more control over both. Additionally, manufacturers are looking to provide customers with a single system that meets the needs they have with regards to video, intrusion and access control. Right now, I don't think there's a system that can fully deliver on the promise of being exceptional at all three, so integrations and partnerships remain important to achieve that end goal. Access Control World An increasing number of end users are realising the holes in the current Wiegand protocols that have been in place since the 1980s, along with the large number of ‘off the shelf’ equipment that's now available to allow outsiders access through readers that operate under these protocols. As a result, in the last decade or so, OSDP has come onto the scene and is growing in popularity. One of the most important steps for access control manufacturers in 2019 will be to listen to customers who are concerned with this vulnerability and work toward fully supporting OSDP in an effort to protect these access control systems. It's an exciting time to be a part of the access control world, as we finally see results from all of the hype centred around the cloud, biometrics, mobile credentials, hacking protection and strong partnerships come to fruition. As 2019 begins, look for these trends to grow in popularity and for manufacturers to really listen to the end-user customer they serve and respond in kind.

Public spaces in cities and suburbs are important places for community development and promoting outdoor recreation. These areas may include main streets, parks, promenades, band shells and fields. Such locations are often utilized by public event planners for community activities, including summer festivals, wintertime ice skating rink installations, music concerts and art fairs. As the year draws to a close, holiday and Christmas markets as well as major New Year’s Eve events, present cities with constant public event security needs. The public nature of these events increases risks of incidents with high-speed vehicles that put attendees in danger. Fortunately, there are three ways for public space managers to prevent casualty-causing collisions and further promote the use of local public areas. Developing An Effective Action Plan   When strategizing how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring It is important to have a plan developed before an incident or accident occurs. Warning systems, utilizing doppler radar and digital loop technologies, alert guards to abnormal vehicle velocity changes in the surrounding area. Managers of public areas should organize a meeting with public safety authorities and local agencies to discuss what must immediately occur when a high-speed vehicle is approaching a public event. When strategizing how to react to an alert, think about what time of the year and time of day the event is occurring. Having such a reaction plan in place combines technology and strategic planning to ensure everyone is on the same page to effectively target a threat and promote overall event safety. Securing Public Areas  Ideally, there will be no need to implement a well-conceived action plan. After all, taking preventive measures to secure public areas where events take place is important to keep people safe from accidental vehicle collisions and intentional attacks. Protect attendees by clearly separating pedestrian and vehicle locations using security devices such as – Barricades Portable barriers Bollards Install Guard Booths  Avoid the risk of vandalism and theft, making sure people are safe when walking back to the cars at night by keeping parking areas illuminated with flood lights. Install guard booths with employees who monitor activity in the parking area and who are prepared to react if an alert is triggered. Furthermore, prevent accidental collisions by clearly marking the parking area with informative warning signs and using barricades to direct traffic. These three tips can be used by public area managers to promote security at the next community event. Additionally, the technologies used to secure an event can also be used as infrastructure for year-round security. Installing gates that shut when the public space is closed or using aesthetically pleasing bollards are steps any public area manager can take to promote community safety.

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.

A rapid string of merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions as 2018 passed into 2019 suggests the physical security industry may be on the verge of a busy year of companies buying other companies. Observers have noted a large amount of investment capital currently available to be invested in security M&A, and plenty of entrepreneurial companies are looking to be acquired. Joe Grillo, CEO of ACRE, previously hinted at upcoming M&A activity for his company by the end of 2018, foreshadowing ACRE’s late-year announcement to acquire access control company Open Options, Addison, Texas.The VaaS cloud-based image capture platform includes fixed and mobile license plate reader cameras driven by machine learning Just days later, in the midst of the holiday season, Qognify announced its plan to acquire On-Net Surveillance Systems Inc. (OnSSI) and sister company SeeTec GmbH. Then came an even larger announcement: Motorola has acquired VaaS International Holdings Inc., a data and image analytics company for $445 million. The VaaS cloud-based image capture and analysis platform includes fixed and mobile license plate reader cameras driven by machine learning and artificial intelligence. Most recently, ADT announced yet another acquisition, Advanced Cabling Systems, a technology integration company in the South, thus continuing consolidation on the integration side of the business. There are likely to be further mergers and acquisitions in the video surveillance supply base in 2019 Continuation Of The Trend In the case of the Qognify and Motorola deals, Jon Cropley, Principal Analyst, Video Surveillance & Security Services, IHS Global Limited, sees them as the next chapter in an M&A trend going back several years. “I think this is a continuation of what we have been seeing in recent years of video surveillance software vendors being acquired,” he says.In the face of intense price competition, vendors have found it increasingly difficult to compete based on hardware features" “In the face of intense price competition, vendors have found it increasingly difficult to compete based on hardware features and are looking at software to offer unique competitive advantages.” In short, he sees it as a continuation of a trend that previously saw Canon acquiring Milestone Systems and Briefcam, Panasonic acquiring Video Insight and Tyco acquiring Exacq. “There are likely to be further mergers and acquisitions in the video surveillance supply base in 2019,” adds Cropley. “However, a spree of large-scale mergers and acquisitions is not expected.” Memoori, another market research firm, forecasts that the value of acquisitions could actually decline marginally in 2019 in value terms but increase in number. This observation is based on Memoori’s charting of physical security deals over the last 18 years. Jim McHale, Managing Director of Memoori, says there have been four cycles of increase and decline in activity, often exaggerated by billion dollar deals in one year such as the merger of Johnson Controls and Tyco of $165Bn in 2016. Access control when combined with identity management is punching well above its weight, and this trend has continued Access Control To Open Systems Only time will tell whether the new year pattern of M&A activity is a coincidence or a harbinger of a busy M&A year ahead“It may be too early to make judgements on the future based on the last four weeks, but there are some interesting points that can be made when compared with our 2018 analysis,” says McHale. “Access control when combined with identity management is punching well above its weight, and this trend has continued. "Acre has been a major contributor and has completed some 10 acquisitions. In general, the access control business has been slow to move to open systems, and hopefully we can expect this trend toward openness to continue as it will give additional growth to the business.” For more commentary from Memoori, see their report “Major Trends in the Global Access Control Market 2018”. Only time will tell whether the new year pattern of M&A activity is a coincidence or a harbinger of a busy M&A year ahead. While past trends may provide a glimpse of what’s coming, there are always new variables. It’s a sure bet the overall trend toward consolidation will continue but predicting the pace and timing of individual transactions is almost impossible. In any case, it will be interesting to watch how 2019 unfolds on the M&A front, among other factors in a changing industry.

Security integrators are often tasked with a multitude of responsibilities which could include a variety of installation, integration or design tasks made up of sprinkler systems, fire alarms, access control, HVAC, video surveillance systems and networks; and then pile on maintenance, training and analytics. Traditionally, most security integrators have installation backgrounds but are now expected to be IT savvy, too. Even the most proficient IT professionals may not fully grasp the complexity of adapting computer servers for use with video systems. It’s not the area of expertise of security integrators as the complexities between IT data and video data are significant. Therefore, security integrators depend on system builders to provide solutions to meet the needs of video systems expertly and with few hassles. It’s a simple enough ask, but not so easy to deliver. Tom Larson, Chief Technology Officer, BCDVideo, lists some of the challenges: The Gap Between Reality And Customer Expectations End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job Sometimes there is a gap between what a security integrator expects from a video surveillance solution (in terms of validation testing, dependability, technical support) and the performance of available choices, especially in the case of low-cost or generic equipment. Extra service and support are needed to bridge the gap. Unfortunately, some manufacturers entering the market have failed to deliver, and integrators (and their end user customers) have paid a price. The Network Is Often Overlooked Security integrators should pay special attention to engineering the network and calculating the bandwidth and storage needed for video projects, especially given how technology evolves so quickly. Security is an appliance-driven business, and integrators who just want to add another server to expand storage or functionality without configuring the network run the risk of i/o bottlenecks and other system failures. End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job. Unfortunately, traditional IT resellers are often married to a singular solution limiting their knowledge of a good fit for the job. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem, as “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time Servers Are Mistakenly Considered A One-Time Expense One mistake purchasing agents make and security integrators have a hard time quantifying is viewing video storage as a capital expense (as one more component of a security system) rather than considering ongoing operating expenses. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem. “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time, such as firmware or supply chain issues, and some systems builders have failed to provide support to offset those costs. In fact, the high costs over time of supporting inexpensive servers have been unsustainable for some system builders, who have left integrators and end users holding the bag, and in some cases, the liability. Adapting To Sustainable Strategies “Systems builders to the video surveillance market must adapt and invest to meet the demands of security integrators’ expectations, and they need a business model that enables them to provide a substantial level of support and commitment,” says Larson. “Working with high-quality manufacturers and providing tried-and-tested, certified equipment upfront ensures manageable costs over the life of the system. Products that are fully tested and contain no firmware bugs ensure smoother installations. By providing adequate technical support to the security integrator and managing IT variables over the life of the system, the systems builder makes it possible for a security integrator to specify and install a video server as easily as any other system component.” Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators Taking a longer-term view and considering total cost of ownership is a more sustainable strategy for integrators, says Larson. Investing upfront in a higher-quality server is rewarded by dependability and lower service costs over the life of the system. And the lower costs of supporting a higher-quality server create a more sustainable business model for the integrator, thus ensuring the integrator and end user will have ongoing support. Adapting Server Technology To Video Applications Security integrators deliver a different skill set than IT integrators, who tend to be more hands-on in terms of updating firmware and providing maintenance. Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators, who therefore depend on systems builders to provide that expertise. They develop a long-term relationship with a systems builder they can depend on to meet their needs for each job. Larson says the best scenario for a security integrator is a combination of a high-quality server systems builder that understands the specific needs of the security integrator market. Adapting server technology to video applications requires knowledge of both disciplines. Dependable technology adapted to the needs of the video channel ensures successful installations and happy, long-term customers.

How’s this for a simple access control scenario? You walk up to a door, wave your hand in front of a button, the button lights up, and the door opens. That’s the simplified user experience that startup Openpath is promoting as it enters the crowded and mature market for physical access control. Openpath says a simple user experience provides the extra boost needed for mobile credentialing to gain momentum. In this case, it’s even simpler than using a card credential (no searching in a bag or purse for the card). And there’s no personal identification number (PIN) code to remember; no “intrusive” biometric element that can concern some users. James Segil, President and Co-Founder of Openpath, says the simplified process “uses fewer thought cycles.” Reliability of the system comes from Openpath’s SurePath triple-connect technology “We wanted to make mobile access control that people want to use and can use safely and with ease,” he says. “We wanted to make using a smart phone for access control easier and more reliable than using a keycard.” Simplified User Operation In the simplified scenario, the mobile credential resides on a smart phone that can remain tucked away in the user’s purse or pocket. The credential remains active without the user needing to open an app. The wave of the hand signals intent, which causes the button to light up, activate and the door is ready to open. Segil says the simplicity of operation has contributed to the system seeing an unheard-of 94% adoption rate among users. Reliability of the system comes from Openpath’s SurePath triple-connect technology. The smart phone credential is delivered using Bluetooth, WiFi or LTE (cellular) – whichever signal reaches the reader first enables the door to be opened. So even if a company’s WiFi is down or Bluetooth proves unreliable, there is still a third option. Openpath deploys “seamless” cloud integration and makes it easy for landlords and tenants to integrate Openpath with other systems Seamless Cloud Integration Segil is a serial entrepreneur who has had experiences as a frustrated user, dealing with many different offices, people and access control deployments over the years – subletting office space, changing PIN codes, dealing with 10 different offices using 10 different cards. Based on that experience, Openpath’s founders saw a need for a more user-centric approach to access control, and a chance to improve the office experience to be more aligned with employees’ experiences in their smart homes. Segil says he also saw “significant lethargy” among incumbent players in the access control space, and a market in which mobile and cloud technologies had still not taken hold. In addition to a simplified user experience built around mobile credentialing, Openpath deploys “seamless” cloud integration and makes it easy for landlords and tenants to integrate Openpath with other systems. The “elegant” readers, including a flush-mounted version, fit in well with high-end office environments. The company launched in May 2018. Openpath has been signing up national and regional channel partners all across the U.S. Openpath is focused on the commercial real estate market, where they have already seen significant adoptions, especially among mid-sized companies. Larger deployments as part of new construction are in the pipeline. National System Integration In the past six months since its launch, Openpath has been signing up national and regional channel partners all across the U.S. and now has a nationwide footprint and is able to service customers all over the U.S. They are not yet disclosing any specifics about the number of partners they have signed up and who they are. “I can share that we have a number of large national system integration and security brands on board as channel partners and many more regional and local system integrators,” says Segil. They are looking for additional integrator partners. “There is a cohort of folks out there who say ‘I get it,’ and I want to offer it to my customers,” says Segil. The cloud element of the system can provide recurring monthly revenue (RMR). Openpath’s system offers flexibility in terms of meeting each customer’s security needs. In addition to the “super convenient” scenario described above, the system can also be configured to be “super secure,” using two-factor authentication and other measures, says Segil. There are multiple “flavors” between the two extremes. It can also be integrated with elevators to enable the buttons on allowed floors. Integration With Existing Systems Cloud software simplifies operation for both tenants and landlords. The system is backwards-compatible to existing systems and can be used to retrofit and mobile-enable a legacy system, providing the benefits of mobile features and cloud operation to multiple sites. The software can interface with enterprise applications such as Active Directory, and an application programming interface (API) facilitates integration with other systems and building components. It operates with marketing automation platforms such as Flack and visitor management systems such as Envoy. The system is backwards-compatible, providing the benefits of mobile features and cloud operation to multiple sites Open standards make the system easy to install in new or existing buildings using RS485, or Cat 5 or Cat 6 wiring, whatever is in place. Retrofit installations can use existing panels, servers, software, etc., or they can be replaced. The Openpath panel is installed right next to an existing panel in a retrofit and preserves all legacy integrations of the previous system. Access Credentials Compatibility In its simplest configuration, the Openpath system consists of single or four-door panels wired using standard ports, Wiegand ports and REX ports, each connected to software in the cloud. Each panel works offline if the internet connection is down. Various key fobs, cards and other credentials are available in addition to mobile credentials. Openpath was one of the new exhibitors at last fall’s GSX show in Las Vegas, occupying a large-sized booth for a startup company. The “beautiful” hardware drew a lot of attention, says Segil. “The channel loves us, and we signed a lot of people,” he adds. “We were excited by the response.”

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.”

HID Global, globally renowned trusted identity solutions provider, and Phunware, Inc., a fully integrated enterprise cloud platform for mobile that provides products, solutions, data and services for brands worldwide, has announced their collaboration to improve the experience for hospital patients and visitors to find their way within medical facilities, using wayfinding on their mobile phones. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination.  Wayfinding And HID Location Services Phunware and HID are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardised technology "The combination of Phunware’s market-leading wayfinding and mobile engagement capabilities with innovative HID Location Services will ultimately revolutionize wayfinding within healthcare institutions,” said Phunware co-founder and CEO Alan S. Knitowski. “It’s easy for visitors and patients to get lost in hospitals, and every time they do it puts appointment times and patient satisfaction at risk. With our location-aware app on a mobile device, we equip the visitor to get instant, turn-by-turn navigation that creates a better experience than that which is currently available on the market.” Phunware and HID are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardized technology to provide a better wayfinding and visitor engagement experience inside the hospital, across campus and even in parking lots.  Unified Healthcare IoT Solutions Healthcare organisations can easily lay out the foundation for IoT applications, such as wayfinding" “Wayfinding is one more application that we are integrating into HID’s unified healthcare IoT solution to make it easier for healthcare systems to manage a growing demand for automated and streamlined experiences,” said Rom Eizenberg, Vice President of Sales, Bluvision, part of HID Global. “With HID technologies, we have changed the location-aware landscape, delivering location as a service. Now, healthcare organizations can easily lay out the foundation for IoT applications, such as wayfinding.” Healthcare IoT-Enabled Platform HID’s healthcare IoT solution-enablement platform simplifies the delivery of real-time location of clinicians, patients and devices. The platform is enabled by Bluvision (part of HID Global). Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) Platform Phunware’s Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform also provides enterprise-level mobile wayfinding, engagement, data and more for other vertical markets, including retail, residential, hospitality, media and entertainment and more.

Critical infrastructure requires locks that are proven, tested and trusted. Sometimes electronic locking is the right choice; at other times, mechanical locking does the job. With CLIQ mechatronic locking technology, one water utility combined both in a single, secure system controlled by powerful, intuitive CLIQ software. O des Aravis is responsible for water capture, storage quality, analysis and delivery of around 700,000m3 annually to homes and businesses in the Aravis Mountains region of France. PROTEC2 CLIQ key-based access control with programmable, battery-powered keys now secures 30 opening points across their premises. These robust locking devices are suited to protecting high-security openings, including a potentially dangerous room with high-tension electrical cabling and equipment. They are already deployed at critical infrastructure sites all over Europe. Controlling And Modifying Access Rights The mechatronic CLIQ system enables the utility’s facility managers to control, modify and trace every important accessThe mechatronic CLIQ system enables the utility’s facility managers to control, modify and trace every important access. They know who goes where, and when. They are aware of activity affecting all critical doors; it is even impossible to leave one unlocked. Because CLIQ is a flexible, key-based system, O des Aravis can also retain some mechanical locks at the site, operated by the same secure keys and with the same PROTEC2 high-security disc cylinders. CLIQ software makes it easy and intuitive for O des Aravis to manage their entire locking system. “The programming software platform is very simple to use. We can easily grant or forbid access rights to any user,” explains Laurent Schutz, Water and Sanitation Process Manager. CLIQ Web Manager Software The CLIQ Web Manager software is built to help companies like O des Aravis manage complex workflows. System administrators can program, amend or delete keys remotely. It’s straightforward to generate time-stamped audit trails for any lock or key, to track access in detail. The Web Manager can generate attendance reports for staff and contractors. Yet despite all these features, the CLIQ Web Manager requires minimal IT investment: it runs in the cloud and is accessed via an encrypted connection to a standard web browser. On Demand Audit Trails Of Lock/Key If a key is lost, a security manager can deactivate it instantly with a couple of clicksAt O des Aravis, comprehensive audit trails for any lock or key are available on demand. These also sync automatically when a user key is updated or revalidated. If a key is lost, a security manager can deactivate it instantly with a couple of clicks, ensuring buildings and clean water supplies are not put at risk. “There is very good communication about software updates,” says Laurent Schutz. “It is highly professional.” We live in a world of diverse threats to our critical infrastructure. For Aravis Mountains residents, winter skiers and summer hikers, these refreshing alpine waters are safely locked down — thanks to CLIQ wireless access control.

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.”

Security installation specialist Vision Security Services installed Vanderbilt’s ACT365, a cloud-based access control and video management system, at Work.Life, a co-working and private offices facility in London Fields, east London. ACT365 solution was implemented late in the construction stage, as initially, the client had used a conventional system, before realizing late-on the benefits available from cloud management. Essentially, the client needed unified management of access points and video, both locally and remotely. It was for these reasons that ACT365 was chosen for the task. Remote Monitoring Capabilities ACT365 allows the system user to activate doors and analyze their status from any major web browser or the ACT365 appImportantly, ACT365’s remote monitoring capabilities deliver a force that gives business owners far greater visibility and control of their property. For instance, at the London Fields site, ACT365 allows the system user to activate doors and analyze their status from any major web browser or the ACT365 app. This allows Work.Life to make immediate remote adjustments to a user’s details, including updating access privileges when a lapsed membership is renewed. Crucially, ACT365 can also generate muster reports during a building evacuation, with marshals being able to see instantly from their phone or smart device if members have mustered out. Again, this function can be used remotely if required. Controlling Doors Through Smartphone Devices Vision Security Services operates as an integrator across access control, video surveillance, intruder alarms and barrier systems across the south of England and London from a base in Sittingbourne, Kent. Commenting on the installation of ACT365, Reg Butler, Director of Vision Security Services, stated: “There are very few true cloud-based access control solutions, and the ability of Vanderbilt’s ACT365 to synchronize access control events instantly to camera footage from a single platform means no time is wasted searching through video. Vanderbilt’s ACT365 appeals to our end-users regarding functionality and price point. They also appreciate being able to view sites and even open and lock doors based on what they see on a camera feed, all from a smartphone or web browser.” Protecting People And Assets During Emergency ACT365’s real-time management enables the kind of flexibility that system users need to instantly protect people and assets in the event of an emergency Overall, ACT365’s real-time management enables the kind of flexibility that system users need to instantly protect people and assets in the event of an emergency. Essentially, ACT365’s remote monitoring feature puts business owners first by eradicating once heavy responsibilities that can now be promptly completed through the click of a button on smartphone or desktop devices. This gives business owners convenience through simplicity. As explained by Ross Wilks, Head of Marketing Communications at Vanderbilt: “ACT365 deals with convenience. It deals with things that are at the heart of customer pain points. Vanderbilt has always looked to invest in technology that will match our values of agility, flexibility, and dependability. "Products like ACT365 excel with these criteria. ACT365’s distinguishing characteristics deliver information rapidly, cost-effectively, and can be upgraded with the latest features as and when they become available.”

Comprising a large tertiary and secondary hospital, along with three rural hospitals, Waikato DHB is a substantial healthcare operator which employs approximately 6,000 staff throughout the region. With security needs that include protecting staff from verbal and physical abuse, safely securing high-dependency patients in dementia wards, restricting unauthorized access to medication and medical equipment, and protecting high-risk facilities such as newborn intensive care units, Waikato DHB required security systems that could be applied to both high and low security areas and found the solution in Gallagher’s range of innovative security products. Serving a large geographical area of the North Island of New Zealand, the Waikato District Health Board (Waikato DHB) provides hospital and community-based health services to a population of nearly 400,000 people. Controlling Access Areas Within Hospital Gallagher’s system enables us to make changes quickly and push that information out to the card readers instantly"Gallagher’s access control system and Command Centre central management platform provide Waikato DHB with control over access in and out of areas within the hospital. With access profiles that change on a daily basis, as medical staff – predominantly nurses – move between different departments on different days, it’s vital that the system can be updated simply and efficiently. “Gallagher’s system enables us to make changes quickly and push that information out to the card readers instantly, ensuring that staff can approach doors with the confidence that they can enter or leave areas as necessary,” said David Wilson, Manager of Security and Parking for Waikato DHB. The safe and secure storage of medication and medical equipment, ranging from syringes and surgical tools, to large expensive machinery, is a legal requirement of all hospitals in New Zealand. Single Access Card System Gallagher’s access control solution forms a part of the security system that delivers this for Waikato DHB facilities. Utilizing a single accesscard system where permissions can be set to allow different access ensures the efficient movement of staff, reduces the risks associated with handling keys, and provides a comprehensive audit trail that identifies access movements by employee. Utilizing a single access card system where permissions can be set to allow different access ensures the efficient movement of staff Waikato DHB is proud to put people at the center of what they do, and strives to ensure staff and patient safety at all times. A number of Waikato DHB’s wards require high-level security either for the protection of the patients – as in the case of dementia facilities – or staff. Duress buttons located throughout the hospital and its high-risk areas automatically notify security staff of the exact location where a duress alarm has been activated. Lock-Down System Gallagher’s Command Centre Mobile application delivers these duress notifications directly to a guard’s mobile device – speeding up the delivery of urgent information directly to security personnel. The ability to lock-down areas of the hospital for safety reasons is paramount. “Command Centre gives us the ability to isolate areas and restrict access. This is a critical requirement for us and the reliability of that lock-down system is hugely important,” said Wilson. With so many visitors and staff coming and going from the hospital, carpark management is an important aspect of facilities administration for Waikato DHB. In choosing a solution, the DHB selected Gallagher’s Carkpark Management system - an optional license feature. Streamlined Parking Processes Through an integration with Gallagher’s Command Centre security management software, staff are able to badge their access card at one of the many staff and public carparks on site, and have their parking fee deducted from their pre-paid account. The program has in-built intelligence including the ability for staff to exit and re-enter during a set period without being rechargedThe program has in-built intelligence including the ability for staff to exit and re-enter during a set period without being recharged. This system has streamlined parking processes, particularly for part-time and shift-work staff who have irregular parking requirements. According to Wilson, “One of the real strengths of this system is the reporting. By managing the pre-paid carpark system through Command Centre and linking it to staff access cards, we are able to effortlessly extract detailed reports.” Electronic Tag Boards Waikato DHB’s facilities are continually expanding and this means a large number of contractors may be present on site within a 24 hour period. By utilizing another Gallagher license feature - electronic Tag Boards - contractors can easily sign on and off of the site. A key driver for this was health and safety, “It’s really important for us to know who is on site in case of an emergency,” said Wilson. “Making this process as simple as possible for contractors is the best way to ensure it is used.” A number of other system integrations appear across the site, including CCTV. Waikato DHB’s largest hospital facility, Waikato Hospital, has over 250 CCTV cameras connected to Gallagher’s Command Centre platform. As Waikato DHB’s requirements continue to evolve, Gallagher’s systems expand alongside them. Security Ward Standard The Security Ward Standard details the minimum security equipment required for new buildings, including access control, duress alarms, and camerasTo remain at the forefront of technology, Waikato DHB has a software maintenance agreement with Gallagher, to ensure they operate the very latest software available. “Any advancement in technology will make life easier, that’s a straightforward investment for us,” said Wilson. Through Waikato DHB’s experience with Gallagher products, the team developed a ‘Security Ward Standard’. This standard details the minimum security equipment required for new buildings, including access control, duress alarms, and cameras. The Security Ward Standard has greatly reduced the time involved by Waikato DHB staff in producing specification documents and gathering approvals. “Gallagher gives us a complete and total security package that is expandable and easy to manage,” said Wilson. “We are confident that a high-standard of security is being consistently applied across our sites for the safety of our staff, patients, and visitors.”