CCTV Systems

With society’s emphasis on social media, peer-to-peer communications and political correctness, the perception and reputation of your company and you can make or break the business more than ever before. Related: Between Us Pros: Getting Customers to Drink Your Kool-Aid Nowhere is this truer than in security, an industry predicated on trustworthiness, reliability and vigilance in practices, policies and protocols that safeguard customers’ lives, limbs and livelihoods. Especially within smaller, independent security companies, a single rogue individual — particularly, if they are left unchecked — can be a cancer internally among staff and, depending on the role, externally to clientele. This is especially true when the individual is part of the sales team. This can translate into disgruntled, disengaged or lost employees. Worse, it can result in improperly secured, dissatisfied or departed customers. Both scenarios can undermine a provider’s credibility and open the door to p...

PLANO, Texas—acre security, a global provider of state-of-the-art security systems, has announced an initiative as part of its ongoing effort to unify and simplify its product offerings. According to the company, the rebranding of the SPC intruder detection system to acre Intrusion marks a strategic alignment within the company’s streamlined branding framework. This approach also includes the acre Access Control and acre Visitor Management solutions, bringing a cohesive identity to the entire portfolio. “Since its inception, acre has been dedicated to transforming security from a complex challenge into a seamless aspect of our clients’ daily lives. The transition to acre Intrusion highlights our commitment to a more modern branding structure that mirrors this mission,”  says Mark Roberts, CMO, acre security . “This strategic effort also supports the broader acre security solutions portfolio and ensures that we continue to meet the high expectations of performance a...

HOUSTON – Black Girls Do Engineer recently signed an education partnership agreement (EPA) with the National Security Agency in “an effort to continue playing a key role in developing science and technology talent for possible national security challenges,” according to the joint announcement. The National Security Agency (NSA) partners with select universities and nonprofit organizations as part of the Agency’s Minority Serving Institution (MSI) Hacking 4 Intelligence (H4I) program. It is a program where the U.S. government and industry partners, collaborate to solve national security problems. The program engages HBCU students and college bound students studying STEM disciplines. Black Girls Do Engineer, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides access, education and resources to black students K-12 in STEM, was selected to participate “because of its stellar reputation in hosting cohorts of students through various STEM subjects including co-ed HBCU and high school pr...

One area of the security and smart home sector that has had my eye for the past few years is the great evolution of presence detection . Companies such as Origin AI and Ubiety Technologies are making a big splash on a variety of levels. Related: Monitoring Matters: AI, Analytics and Machine Learning—What’s the Difference? The future of intelligent and safe living spaces is now here when a variety of mainstream technologies are leveraged in concert. A variety of technologies that most consumers currently have within their premises have now become the foundation for deploying new, groundbreaking technologies like presence detection. Presence detection platforms aren’t all the same; they monitor for presence and activity in a variety of manners. The differences stem from the core technology, the focus of what the technology is sensing, the AI and added benefits the platforms deliver. Although some platforms have some overlap in features and benefits, the additional differences ...

NEUHAUSEN, Switzerland—Sensormatic Solutions, a global retail solutions portfolio of  Johnson Controls , has announced its partnership with Thruvision, a global provider of walk-through security screening technology. According to Sensormatic , the new partnership will enable next-generation people screening to become more accessible to retailers around the world. Using passive terahertz camera technology, Thruvision’s cameras and scanning software complement Sensormatic Solutions loss prevention solutions portfolio and will provide retailers with a fast, respectful and reliable people-screening option in distribution centers and other logistics facilities to address and help reduce internal shrink. Thruvision’s offering is available now through Sensormatic Solutions. “The discussion about retail theft often focuses on sales floors and through the organized retail crime (ORC) lens, but internal theft is a growing problem. According to research we conducted with Retail Economics [p...

ATLANTA – Amplifier Security recently launched from stealth with a $3.3 million investment and an artificial intelligence-powered human-in-the-loop automation and security co-pilot that “connects the dots between an organization’s existing security stack and their people.” The pre-seed funding round was led by Cota Capital, with participation from WestWave Capital and Shift Left Ventures, and included angel investments from industry luminaries and the founders of Slack, MobileIron, Centrify, PeopleNet, Skyflow and Mercury. Related: TXOne Networks Raises $51M in Series B Extension Round Funding for Growth The Amplifier Security solution “extends the value and effectiveness of existing security tools by empowering the entire company to work together towards a much faster response time that dramatically increases the security health and culture of an organization,” according to the company announcement. Amplifier “provides an engagement layer between existing security tool...

MESA, Ariz. – Public safety officials in a city of more than 500,000 people that’s been recognized for its modernity and rapid growth recently pinpointed the existence of fragmented technology and disconnected data systems across various departments. To address this challenge, Level 3 Audiovisual was engaged to develop an advanced Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) . This center seamlessly integrates essential systems into one efficient facility, thereby enhancing operations and public safety. Related: Mesa Police Department Launches State-of-the-Art Real-Time Crime Center AV systems integrator Level 3 Audiovisual has designed and deployed real-time crime centers for proactive policing and advancing law enforcement practices. “With advanced audiovisual solutions, the Real-Time Crime Center in this prominent city has undergone a remarkable transformation,” says Jeff Bethke, chief business officer at Level 3 Audiovisual. “This new system isn’t just about technology; it’s about ena...

MONTRÉAL — Unified security, public safety, operations and business intelligence technology solutions provider Genetec today announced the opening of several new research and development hubs, Experience Centers and the expansion of several offices around the world. New R&D Hubs Underscoring its commitment to innovation, Genetec is expanding its global footprint with the establishment and expansion of new research and development hubs in strategic locations worldwide. Located in Vienna (Austria), Krakow (Poland), and Orléans (France), these R&D centers “will complement the company’s existing Montréal-based campus and its other R&D centers in Québec City and Sherbrooke (Canada), Paris (France), and Bruges (Belgium),” the company announcement says. “These new offices serve as innovation hubs, fostering collaboration amongst our developers as they build the forward-thinking technology that Genetec is known for,” says Christian Morin, vice president of product engineering...

MAHWAH, N.J.—Bogen Communications LLC, a manufacturer of commercial audio and voice communications solutions, has announced its CSD1X2U-V2. The company explains the CSD1X2U-V2 is a passive speaker with versatile operation modes, supporting either 8-ohm low impedance (15-watt max) or 25-volt/70-volt with a tapped power setting input. According to Bogen , the speaker’s dual capability makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of audio applications—from commercial environments to educational institutions. “We are thrilled to introduce the CSD1X2U-V2 to our customers,” says Randall Lee, vice president of marketing and product management at Bogen Communications . “This new model not only addresses the diverse needs of our clients, but also exemplifies our dedication to innovation and efficiency. Whether for an educational institution or corporate office spaces, the CSD1X2U-V2 is the perfect solution for any drop-ceiling audio installation.” Bogen CSD1X2U-V2 Speaker Complements Company’s ...

NAPERVILLE, Ill. — Advanced security and safety detection systems provider Metrasens recently partnered with Central Indiana Educational Service Center (CIESC) , which provides cooperative purchasing programs for member school districts across Indiana. Through this partnership, CIESC member schools, as well as 270 other districts that are members of other education service centers across Indiana, can now purchase Metrasens Ultra weapons detection systems through the CIESC Cooperative Contracts program. Related: Barberton High School Adds Advanced Detection Tech to Strengthen Security This collaboration “empowers all school districts in Indiana that are a member of their ESC with readily available, discounted contracts for Metrasens Ultra weapons detection systems,” according to the announcement. By tapping into the CIESC Cooperative Contracts product and service procurement program, schools “can avoid the costs and administrative complexities associated with initiating their...

Last month, we  announced  the Most Valuable Product (MVP) award winners,  celebrating products  across the physical security landscape that make a substantial impact on integrators and the projects they execute. Now, we’re taking a closer look at the winning products and hearing from the companies who won this year’s MVP Awards about what the accolade means to them and why the product is held in such high regard across the security industry. What Alarm.com Says About Winning Two MVP Awards Here’s what Stephanie Kinney, Alarm.com vice president of marketing, said about the company winning MVP Awards for central station/monitoring and fire/life safety: Related: MVP Awards 2024 Recap: Reaction From Axis Communications on Their Win “Alarm.com is honored to accept two MVP Awards for the Remote Video Monitoring (RVM) console and Shooter Detection Systems powered by Alarm.com. We are proud to receive recognition for our continued focus on innovative technology t...

The Security Industry Association ( SIA ) and ISC Security Events are seeking proposals from subject matter experts for the SIA Education at ISC conference programs at ISC East 2024 and ISC West 2025. ISC East 2024 will take place Nov. 19-21 at the Javits Center in New York City and ISC West 2025 will be held April 1-4 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. The SIA Education at ISC conference program “always strives to deliver a lineup of informative, engaging sessions that offer critical information on the most innovative, relevant technologies in security and public safety,” according to the joint announcement. Related: Security Industry Association Launches New Community for Veterans in Security If you or a colleague have an idea for a session that offers best practices, lessons learned, case studies or other insights that would benefit ISC East or West attendees, SIA and ISC Security Events encourage you to submit your proposal before the deadline June 14. “In ...

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C.—Platinum Tools, a manufacturer of solutions for the preparation, installation, hand termination and testing of wire and cable, has announced that it will feature its PTS Pro Crimp Tool (p/n 12520C) during InfoComm 2024. The annual trade event takes place in Las Vegas, Nev. from June 12-14 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, booth #C7168, and the tool company says its new crimping tool is now shipping at an MSRP of $85.83. “ Platinum Tools ’ new PTS (Pass Through Standard) Pro Crimp Tool takes years of takes years of Platinum Tools innovations and and combines multiple tools into one sleek design,” explains Sean Rothermel, Platinum Tools product manager. “The PTS Pro allows for the termination of both ezEX-RJ45 connectors and the legacy EZ-RJ45 connectors in a single tool with no part changes. This is a single tool for all Platinum Tools terminations.” The company points out that its new PTS Pro Crimp tool utilizes a sliding plate to change between the different t...

TUJUNGA, Calif. — Former California Alarm Association (CAA) president R. Anthony “Tony” Smith died April 18, 2024, after a brief illness at age 85. A native of Los Angeles, Smith attended St. Francis High School in La Canada-Flintridge, Calif., and received a degree in finance and accounting at the University of Arizona. He also enrolled in graduate studies at the University of Southern California and attended the Citizen’s Academy offered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. After nearly 15 years in the cable industry, he came to the security industry in 1979 as co-founder of the Security Channel, a company designed to enable cable television companies to meet their franchise requirements to offer security services, over cable, to their customers within the franchise area. At its peak, the company had contracts with more than a dozen cable companies to provide such services in various areas nationwide. Related: California Alarm Association Launches Women in the Security Ev...

ORLANDO, Fla. — Dan Ferrisi , group editor for commercial and security at Emerald, will moderate “Emerging Integrator Opportunities in the Physical-Security Space” at InfoComm 2024 next month. The discussion, which starts at 8:30 a.m. on June 13, will bring together several of the most respected integrators in the AV and security communities: Dawna Payne, executive vice president, Texadia Systems Lionel Felix, founder and chief revenue officer, Felix Media Solutions Matt Thorne, executive vice president, Electronic Contracting Company (ECC) Travis Deatherage, partner and president, Linx Multimedia If you’d like more information about the session, which will take place in Rooms W209/W210, check out  the listing on the InfoComm website . Crossover Opportunities in Security and AV The panel discussion, scheduled for one hour, will touch on key considerations for AV integrators who are considering crossing over into security. Indeed, if you’re an integrator thinking about wi...

Nearly 10 years ago, AVI Systems, the largest global audiovisual and unified collaboration systems integrator, needed an overarching solution to streamline its processes across various departments. The quest for efficiency led AVI Systems to Solutions360 ’s flagship platform Q360, a unified enterprise resource planning software designed specifically for integration companies. The all-encompassing system promised not only to simplify complex processes but also to tightly integrate every facet of the company’s business, setting the stage for continued growth and success. Prior to the transition, the integration firm was using a variety of software that was not integrated across all its departments causing inefficient workflows and data issues.  Kendra Apelt, director of business applications at AVI Systems , recalls, “Prior to Q360, we struggled with siloed systems that lacked integration, resulting in inefficiencies and delays in our workflow. We were seeking a platform that...

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — Astute Financial Consulting, LLC, which provides accounting and business management solutions for security companies that use SedonaOffice and FieldHub enterprise software, recently named Amy Becker as president . Becker’s promotion was announced by Jim Lee, founder of Astute, who will remain with the company in the role of CEO. Ms. Becker joined Astute in April, 2023 as senior vice president after working for more than 25 years within the alarm industry in chief financial officer and controller positions and as chief operating officer at Alarm Detection Systems. Becker holds both CPA and CMA certifications. Why Astute Financial Promoted Amy Becker “With an impressive career spanning three decades in finance and accounting, including pivotal roles at renowned security companies, Amy brings invaluable expertise and leadership to our organization,” says Lee in the company announcement. “As president, Amy will undoubtedly inspire and guide our team to new heigh...

CHARLOTTE, N.C.—Snap One announced that it will demonstrate an expanding ecosystem of commercial integration solutions at InfoComm 2024 in Las Vegas, NV. Exhibiting in booth #C9477 the company is presenting a complete overview of how its fully compatible control, AV, surveillance, remote system management and networking solutions create one-stop shopping experiences for dealers with class-leading performance and capabilities. “Our Partners know Snap One delivers unrivaled product selection and support, and we want every InfoComm attendee to see for themselves how we can help their business grow and increase profitability through an innovative product ecosystem that addresses the needs of today’s commercial projects – regardless of scope or scale,” says Alston Mann, GM of commercial & security, Snap One . “From easy-to-use smart building control with Control4 to Media-over-IP solutions from Binary, Episode, Luma, Access Networks and more, we have the tools integrators need to deli...

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Emergency Number Association (NENA), also known as the 9-1-1 Association, recently announced the findings of its second annual Pulse of 9-1-1 State of the Industry Survey . The survey, conducted by NENA in partnership with cloud-native emergency call management provider Carbyne provides insights into the ongoing challenges faced by emergency communications centers (ECCs) and 9-1-1 professionals across North America. Related: National Monitoring Center Secures Updated TMA Installation Quality (IQ) Certification  The 2024 survey delves into the “domino effects” of staffing shortages, technological gaps and wellness and mental health impacts, according to the association announcement. “There is an undeniable strain on the people who are the first first responders in public safety, the human voice on the line in a time of crisis,” says Brian Fontes, CEO of NENA, in the announcement. “Severe staffing challenges are continuing in 9-1-1, from diff...

IRVINE, Calif. — Security and facility services company Allied Universal recently announced that client services, security operations and account management regional manager Frances Ruban received the Patriot Employer award from the Office of the Secretary of Defense – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Related: Allied Universal Named to Newsweek List of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity The Patriot Employer award recognizes Ruban – who works at the company’s New York City branch office – for her support of an employee who is currently serving in the National Guard. “I am proud to receive this award and work for a company that values the sacrifice and service made by members of the National Guard and military reservists,” says Ruban in the company announcement. “Service to others is at the forefront of what we do at Allied Universal, and we will continue to go above and beyond for these men and women, just as they do for our country.” Why Ruban Won ...