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Showing posts from July, 2023

OS Malevich 2.16: Enhanced entry/exit logic, Ring topology support, and better CMS connection

OS Malevich 2.16 release brings three updates worth mentioning. Ajax examines the market’s demand and needs to deliver a better and more secure experience to every user and PRO. All the updates we make lead to a huge difference in… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/os-malevich-2-16/ via CCTV Engineer

ADT Commercial Launches NFPA LiNK for Digital Access to Codes and Standards

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ADT Commercial , a systems integrator that provides commercial security, fire and life safety services in the U.S., has created a program to help its employees develop professionally by reaching higher certification levels and building a better work experience. Driven by the organization’s National Fire & Life Safety and Product Enablement teams, the company aspired to provide employees across critical operational departments with expanded access to NFPA fire and life safety codes to more efficiently study for professional certification exams. ADT Commercial needed shareable, convenient, and up-to-date code information that wouldn’t need to be replaced every few years—and that would come at a lower cost than a full library of physical code books. Related: Fire Side Chat: The Differences Between NFPA 715 and NFPA 72 By implementing NFPA LiNK , a subscription-based application that delivers NFPA codes and standards, ADT Commercial was able to achieve these goals and more. ...

Recurring Revenue Rescues the Business Blahs for Security Integrators

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While a comedic movie or TV show might depict a businessperson trying to get to sleep counting money in their mind rather than sheep, who wouldn’t want to literally make money 24/7 regardless of what they may be doing at a given time? Embracing and implementing a model in which customers subscribe to services — as opposed to a one-time or periodic sale — makes that dream of generating recurring monthly revenue (RMR) a reality. Of course, this is an approach with which the alarm industry is intimately familiar, as for many decades monitoring centers and equipped dealers have charged monthly fees to track, respond to burglar and fire alarm signals, alerting responding agencies as deemed necessary. Related: Cloud of Recurring Revenues Awaits Security Dealers It’s somewhat ironic then that a scheme largely pioneered by the security industry, which has become broadly applied to put many other types of businesses on the map and collectively generate billions of dollars, has seen re...

How a new entry/exit logic improves premises security

The new modes in the detector’s Operating mode is available with the OS Malevich 2.16 release. Ajax users and PROs can alter the entry/exit logic to make it more complex and efficient. Ajax Systems aims at combining compliance with standards… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/entry-exit-logic/ via CCTV Engineer

ROSA Devices from RAD Improve Campus Security

DETROIT—Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc., a global developer of AI-driven security and productivity solutions along with its wholly owned subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), have announced they are preparing to ship an order of 10 ROSA security devices to a major urban East Coast University. According to the company, this multiple ROSA deployment will also see the implementation of RAD Light My Way that will provide the students and university staff with an addition layer of safety and security as they move about the campus. The CEO of AITX and RAD Steve Reinharz says the deployment of RAD’s security devices and solutions is an essential step in updating obsolete security measures. The robots will be positioned in busy areas on the campus, replacing old call boxes and enhancing the safety measures currently in place. “This marks another highly visible deployment of RAD Light My Way,” comments Reinharz. “The ROSA devices will be positioned in busy...

Advanced security with Ring topology for Fibra product line

With OS Malevich 2.16, it became possible to connect Ajax wired devices to a hub via Ring topology. It means that the Fibra line is now protected from breaking at the software level and physically. Also, Ring topology provides better… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/advanced-security-ring-topology/ via CCTV Engineer

Why install the security system

The installation of the alarm system is a matter of mature self-care and foresight. A present-day security market offers different devices for users. A well-thought system will pay off over time in many ways. Ajax devices help to prevent or… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/why-install-security-system/ via CCTV Engineer

New release: FireProtect 2 models with heat and CO sensors

The FireProtect 2 series continues to grow. We introduce three new models featuring heat sensor, CO sensor or a combination of both: FireProtect 2 RB (Heat / CO) Jeweller Heat and carbon monoxide detector with replaceable batteries FireProtect 2 RB… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/release-fireprotect-2/ via CCTV Engineer

FAST Adds Michal Moss Early to Foundation’s Board of Directors

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Michal Moss Early, executive director of corporate strategy at Digital Monitoring Products , has joined  the  Foundation for Advancing Security Talent  ( FAST ) board of directors after her recent appointment by the Security Industry Association  ( SIA ). She will serve a two-year term on the FAST board that runs through July 1, 2025. Moss Early is “an experienced leader in the security industry, with five years’ experience at Digital Monitoring Products,” according to the foundation announcement. As executive director of corporate strategy, she provides leadership to the human resources, information technology, marketing and intellectual property teams.” Prior to working in the security industry, Moss Early was in the banking industry, serving as a senior vice president in sales, marketing and operational roles for over 16 years. “I’m thrilled to join the FAST Board of Directors at this exciting time for the organization,” says Moss Early in the FAST announ...

Alarm.com Announces Innovations to Visual Verification

TYSONS, Va . – Alarm.com has rolled out new solutions that “will empower monitoring station operators to make more informed decisions and expedite emergency response while supporting service providers with industry-leading solutions,” according to the company announcement. Alarm.com has built a portfolio of Visual Verification features in the past year “that enable a central station operator to more rapidly and thoroughly assess the emergency situation and expedite the appropriate response,” the company says.  “ With the evolution of Alarm.com’s Visual Verification interface, operators will now have contextual indicators, live video feeds, and Video Analytics tools to help identify if there is a person or a perceived threat at a given location,” according to the company announcement. “By leveraging multiple data sources to understand the activity surrounding an alarm event, Alarm.com distills the information for the operator in the form of a Person On-Site Likelihood Indicator...

Canopy Pickup Cam Provides Mobile Security

DETROIT—Canopy, a smart vehicle security startup, launched its first product, Canopy Pickup Cam which is now available for pre-order. The company states that Canopy was created in response to an increasing number of tradespeople and truck owners losing valuable tools, equipment, and gear to theft necessary to live their daily lives. The Canopy Pickup Cam is a connected security camera for pickup trucks, designed to provide real-time truck bed monitoring when the vehicle is parked and the owner is away. “Every day, vehicle owners load their trucks with the tools that make their work possible. These vehicles are designed to transport their livelihood, yet, they offer little protection. Traditional security measures, such as lockboxes, cables, and covers add unnecessary time and effort to the work day,” says Christian Moran, CEO, Canopy . “The harsh reality is most people who use these products don’t find out about a theft until it’s too late. At Canopy, we saw these problems as an op...

SIA Launches Partnership With Embry-Riddle for Corporate Security Students

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SILVER SPRING, Md. – The  Security Industry Association  ( SIA ) has established a partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s College of Business, Security and Intelligence at the Prescott Campus that will offer SIA memberships to Embry-Riddle students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in global security and intelligence studies. This partnership “will provide the university’s students with access to helpful SIA learning, development and career resources,” according to the joint announcement. “SIA is proud to partner with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on this initiative to support students’ learning and career development and grow awareness of the many exciting, enriching opportunities available in the security industry,” says SIA CEO Don Erickson in the announcement. “We look forward to working together and helping to foster the next generation of security industry leaders.” Related: FAST Seeks Inaugural Security Technician of the Year A...

Control4 Halo Touch Remote Control Available for Worldwide Delivery

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Snap One  is now shipping its newest Control4 handheld remote control, the Halo Touch, to customers around the world. The Halo Touch “allows users to easily and reliably manage their Control4 system through a customizable 3.2-inch color touchscreen with a new graphical interface, backlit buttons, push-to-talk voice control and dual-band WiFi support,” the company announcement says. “When Control4 users want something changed immediately, especially relating to TVs or music, their best option is often a handheld remote that has always-on performance and offers one-touch access to volume and content controls,” says Eric Fritz, Director of Product Management – Control, in the announcement. Related: Digital Watchdog Product Catalog Now Part of Snap One Offerings “With the Halo Touch, users are treated to a premium experience that offers all the latest control methods including voice commands and a bright, easy-to-use touchscreen,” he says. Another advantag...

Axis Communications Patches ‘Vulnerability’ in A1001 Network Door Controller

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CHELMSFORD, Mass. — Axis Communications says it has addressed a “vulnerability” in its A1001 network door controller after two employees of operational technology cybersecurity firm OTORIO uncovered what they called “a critical vulnerability” in the system. The issue “involves the way (A1001) communicates, potentially exposing sensitive networks to unforeseen risks,” according to OTORIO’s complaint to the National Vulnerability Database. “Such a flaw could pose a significant threat to facilities’ security and their internal IP networks,” the complaint says. “This discovery sheds light on potential risks to highly fortified OT networks, unintentionally blurring the line between physical and digital security.” The exploit for this vulnerability, according to OTORIO, requires physical access to the RS-485 twisted pair cable situated at the rear of an access control reader, typically stationed at the entry of a secured facility or perimeter. OTORIO has also successfully demonstrate...

Review: PowerShades Interior Roller Shades

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In the electronic security space, occasionally we see crossover products – items that are designed for security but can provide utility in other areas as well – or perhaps the other way around. Timers for lights provide an effective deterrent for security reasons but can often add to quality of life when coming home to a house that is not dark. Smart thermostats, switches, light bulbs, and electronic locks make things more convenient, and it’s no secret that the home automation features of the Qolsys IQ Panel have added to its rapid adoption in the market. But remote controllable shades like the PowerShades products are less intuitive in that regard. It may be harder to see their benefits, but they become clear over time. They benefit installers too; these are not a do-it-yourself product for the average business or homeowner, but once installed, their simplicity and versatility can make them indispensable. I’ve been testing mine for well over a year now, so I can really speak to l...

Gopher Info is new Alarm.com AI Dealer Tool

TYSONS, Va.—Alarm.com has announced the launch of   Gopher Info, a new AI-powered assistant for technicians and service providers that leverages large language models to improve service provider efficiency and operations—from training and sales to installation and support. According to the company, Alarm.com service providers will be one of the first groups in the security industry to have this resource which is accessible through the Alarm.com Partner Portal and Alarm.com’s mobile app for service providers, MobileTech. Gopher Info is in limited release and will be more widely available this summer. “Innovation is in our DNA and we are always looking for ways to use new technology that enhances service provider efficiency,” says Jason DaCosta, senior vice president of customer operations at Alarm.com . “This is a significant advancement for the security industry and sets a higher standard for support usability.” Alarm.com Gopher Info Provides a Range of Support Services  ...

Springfield College Police Upgrade to Next-Gen VMS to Future-Proof its Security

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Springfield College looked to the future, while retaining a valuable partner from its past and present, with an upgrade of its video management system for the school’s 21-person police department that protects public safety on campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The college, which was founded in 1885, welcomes about 4,100 students, including 2,500 full-time undergraduate students, to its main campus in Springfield, Mass., and its regional campuses across the country every year. Springfield College is also credited with being the place where basketball was invented. Officers in the Springfield College Police Department (a.k.a. Springfield College Public Safety) are fully trained, and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They are bolstered by Community Service Officers (CSOs), who also patrol the campus on foot, cycle and cruiser and respond to medical emergencies when needed. The backbone of the department is its Dispatch Center, located on Portsmouth Street, ...

2023’s Most Valuable Products for Your Next Security Installation

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What defines an “MVP” in the sense that we often hear in the sports world, a most valuable player? Debates usually cite statistics versus importance to team as leading measures of value, and often players averaging the most points, have thrown the most touchdowns, or hit for the highest average do not win the trophy. In the security industry, the same might be said of the products that systems integrators choose to implement on their projects. The “MVP” gear in this case could be the solution that anchors the entire project, or delivers the important video analytics, or enables quicker installations, rather than, say, the surveillance camera with the loftiest specs or access control system with the flashiest features. “The MVP Awards recognize the companies that are developing innovative technologies and elevating peace of mind.” At Security Sales & Integration , every year we attempt to arm our professional security dealer and integrator readers with our own “MVP” winners — ...

Autocall Foundation Fire Detection Panels from Johnson Controls now Available

MILWAUKEE—Johnson Controls, a global manufacturer of smart and sustainable buildings, has announced the launch of Autocall Foundation Series fire detection systems for small to mid-size building protection. The company explains the Foundation Series is a complete, off-the-shelf fire detection solution featuring addressable and non-addressable models, and a full range of reliable, proven Autocall devices. “This new, simplified series provides all the benefits and reliability of Autocall fire detection systems to our customers in a simple, economical and effective package,” says Anna Khanova, vice president, global product management, Johnson Controls . “The streamlined solution means contractors and technicians can complete projects easier and faster with the confidence that the system fully meets the needs of their customers.” Autocall Foundation Series Offers Dealers Efficient Installation Process Johnson Control boasts the Autocall Foundation Series requires minimal training...

Release: LineSplit Fibra is available now for order

Ajax Systems is delighted to announce the release of a new product. LineSplit Fibra is designed to disrupt the market and empower system capabilities. From now on, the product will be available for distribution. Where to buy LineSplit module splits… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/release-linesplit-fibra/ via CCTV Engineer

Farpointe Data Restructures Its North American Regional Sales Territories

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Farpointe Data , the access control industry’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for radio frequency identification (RFID) readers and credentials, has restructured its North American sales regions. Previously assigned to West, Central and East regions, members of Farpointe’s sales team “are now more tightly aligned with the territories in which they live,” according to the company announcement. North American Sales Manager Francisco Alcala—who resides in California—will continue serving the western United States, western sections of Canada and all of Mexico. Stephen “Shep” Sheppard will now serve the northern United States and eastern parts of Canada from his home office in New Hampshire, while Tom Piston covers the southern United States from two locations: Maryland and Florida. “Our goal with this reorganization is to better serve our partners, while also making it more efficient for our sales team to cover their respective territories,” says Alcala in the...

Digital Watchdog Product Catalog Now Part of Snap One Offerings

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Snap One ‘s U.S. partners can now order Digital Watchdog surveillance products through the distributor’s eCommerce portal, giving them access to the equipment and solutions they need regardless of how they prefer to purchase. Making Digital Watchdog’s security solutions available online provides partners with an improved purchasing experience and increases the value of Snap One’s eCommerce platform, says Andras Balassy, senior business development manager at Snap One, in the joint announcement. “Snap One is committed to providing convenient purchasing options for all our partners,” said Balassy in the announcement. “The new online availability makes our web portal even more valuable for partners across the U.S. by offering surveillance products at multiple levels of sophistication and cost, enabling greater design flexibility and ability to tackle different types of jobs.” Digital Watchdog offers video management systems (VMS), edge analytics and server-side anal...

UMC Health System Implements ZeroEyes Gun Detection Platform

PHILADELPHIA—ZeroEyes, a company that offers an AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, and UMC Health System, has announced the deployment of ZeroEyes’ software to protect the facility’s patients, employees and visitors against gun-related violence. The gun detection systems company points out that with gun-related workplace violence rising in the U.S., hospitals face new security challenges. ZeroEyes asserts that healthcare workers who served and sacrificed tremendously through the pandemic now face an increased risk at work. Healthcare facilities must be accessible to visitors and new patients, but the AI analytics developer states this open-door policy unavoidably increases the threat of violence. Invasive security measures like metal detectors may be helpful, but they create an unwelcoming, burdensome atmosphere. And, patients are often non-ambulatory and cannot run or hide from attackers when an ...

Tech Talk: A Closer Look at the Past, Present & Exciting Future of Motion Detection

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After reading Peter Giacalone’s excellent “Sensing a Disruption in the House” column, I began thinking of the many years I have experienced the motion sensing technology evolution. I thought it would be fun to reflect on some motion detection technology history, and to wrap it up with some of the amazing motion devices that are now starting to appear on the market. Having owned and operated an alarm company in the 1970s, I was at the proverbial crossroads of old and new upcoming alarm technology. Earlier alarm systems typically had limited use of motion and control electronics. Interior motion detection could be something as simple as trip wires and floormat switches. There was some use of photo beams. Related: Tech Talk: Nine Ways to Ensure Neat & Sweet Pro Cabling Exterior sensors included magnetic door/window contacts, alarm screens, and, of course, lots of window foil. Systems were often controlled by a shunt switch in the entrance door. Entrance and exit delay techno...

Pittsburgh Police Chief Throws First Pitch at Police and Firefighters Appreciation Night

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PITTSBURGH – Guardian Protection gave about 2,000 game tickets for the July 15 game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Francisco Giants at PNC Park to local police officers, firefighters and their families. Among those cheering were Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto, who was sworn in June 7 as the city’s 55 th chief. In addition to attending the game, Scirotto had the honor of throwing out the first pitch before the Pirates hosted the Giants that night. He also joined 50 selected attendees on the field for a spectacular view of fireworks following the game, which the Pirates lost, 3-1. The day before the game, Guardian generated excitement for the event with representatives from the company and the Pirates organization making personal visits to local police and fire departments. Citizens and first responders could get an autograph and catch a smile watching the antics of mascot Pirate Parrot.  On game day, Guardian setup shop in branded purple tents along the North S...

Business Fitness: Coaching Points on the Value of Re-examining Your Company Vision

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Talent acquisition fuels our growing companies. The past few years have been challenging to find the right talent — harder to find, harder to hire, and very hard to retain. Many merely attribute it to the younger generation, not recognizing the opportunity of hard work and earning through patience and learning. That would be a fatal flaw to avoid, at all costs. Perhaps you have experienced this? Hiring and retaining talent depends on a variety of business issues. Let me share my favorites, with some complementary (and complimentary) suggestions. Make sure your hiring pitch is based on a solid, authentic storyline of your company vision that contributes to society in a big-picture way. New-generation talent views their contribution beyond a paycheck and promise of promotion. Rethink your company vision. Vision changes with the times. Get your vision corrected as your company grows older; a blurry vision will not attract solid talent. Coaching point: Test your revised vision messa...

Ajax Systems partners with CMC Alarmas in Argentina

Ajax Systems has expanded its presence in Argentina by partnering with CMC Alarmas, the leader in providing security services in Córdoba. From now on, CMC’s software can receive alarms and photo verifications from the Ajax security system. CMC Alarmas uses… from Ajax Systems | Official website https://ajax.systems/blog/partners-smc-alarmas-argentina/ via CCTV Engineer

EnStation6 is Latest EnGenius Wireless Networking Solution

COSTA MESA, Calif.—EnGenius Technologies Inc., a popular connectivity solutions provider, has announced its new EnStation6, which it says is its latest addition to its lineup of outdoor wireless products. The West Coast company points out the disc-form access point leverages Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technologies to deliver high levels of performance and extended coverage in outdoor settings, while helping to save costs on running fiber cable. “We are thrilled to introduce the EnStation6 and expand our Wi-Fi 6 outdoor wireless portfolio and enable businesses to extend their wireless networks effortlessly and cost-effectively,” states Eddie Lee, product line manager at EnGenius Technologies . “With its advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology, rugged design, and exceptional performance, the EnStation6 sets a new standard for outdoor wireless connectivity.” According to the company, The EnStation6 offers improvements in throughput, efficiency, and capacity to handle demanding tasks such as 8K ultra-HD v...