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Showing posts from September, 2021

How Smart Cameras Create Safe Environments and New Opportunities

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Enterprises want solutions that protect employees and customers while also safeguarding assets from theft and damage. Advances in physical protection technologies empower you to provide not just these capabilities, but so much more. The new features and opportunities start, as so many things do these days, in the Cloud . That’s not to say the Cloud itself is the key: it’s a means to an end — a tool. Results are key, though. The effects of moving to Cloud-based video technologies from traditional on-premises systems are varied and meaningful. A combination of factors — smart cameras with capabilities like analytics and Cloud — add up to multiple benefits, including novel returns on investment and business opportunities. Combined, they create smart spaces and safe environments, resulting in better experiences for everyone, customers and employees alike. Cutting complexity One way today’s smart cameras enhance security is by removing complexity. They can do this by eliminating manual

Senstar’s New Sensor Fusion Engine Synthesizes Data From Multiple Sensors

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OTTAWA, Ontario, Canada — Senstar, a provider of perimeter intrusion detection systems and video management systems, announces its new sensor fusion engine, which synthesizes data from multiple sensors to generate actionable information. “The concept of sensor fusion is not new, but we have taken it beyond simple Boolean logic integration to develop an engine that analyzes real-time data alongside historical, locational, environmental and classification data before generating an alarm,” says Senstar CTO Jeremy Weese. “The resulting decrease in nuisance alarm rates and increase in system confidence enables security operators to focus on what’s important — namely a quick and efficient response to real security threats.” The Senstar sensor fusion engine accesses low-level data to intelligently characterize potential risks and data synthesis enables the system to achieve levels of performance that exceed those of the individual sensors, according to the company. For security applicatio

ASIS Proclaims 8,600 Global Registrants for Hybrid GSX 2021

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ORLANDO — ASIS Int’l announces the 2021 iteration of its Global Security Exchange (GSX) event exceeded projections, with 8,600 registrants from more than 80 countries and 300 exhibitors demonstrating the latest security solutions. Taking place Sept. 27-29 at the Orange County Convention Center, GSX was presented in a hybrid format. More than 7,200 of the registrants were said to be for the in-person portion of the event. “I’m proud of my friends and colleagues for arranging what is by all metrics a fantastic GSX ,” says John A. Petruzzi, Jr., CPP, 2021 president, ASIS Int’l. “We’ve received an overwhelming response from exhibitors and attendees commenting on the high quality of this year’s show. We’re pleased that the new event footprint — placing learning theaters in the exhibit hall — was well received, allowing for ease of access between our event’s best-in-class education and the solutions offered by our exhibiting companies. I’m incredibly thankful to our show’s international co

SIA Rise Seeks Young Security Pros for Scholarship Opportunity

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SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Security Industry Association (SIA) has opened applications for the SIA RISE Scholarship, a program presented by the SIA RISE community for young security professionals. Through this year’s RISE Scholarship program, selected candidates will receive $3,000 awards that can be used toward continuing education, student loan repayment and professional development programs such as training and certifications. “Applying for a SIA RISE Scholarship is an important step young professionals and students could take to expand their education and grow their skills,” says SIA CEO Don Erickson. “Individuals entering the application process should realize they have a unique opportunity to inspire peers and be recognized for a notable accomplishment in their careers.” Related: On the RISE: Trevor Zuerlein’s Security Evolution SIA says the RISE scholarship program was created to help awardees expand their professional knowledge in the areas of business, human resources,

Eagle Eye Networks Acquires AI Surveillance Specialist Uncanny Vision

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AUSTIN, Texas — Eagle Eye Networks, a global provider of Cloud-based video surveillance products and solutions, announces the acquisition of Uncanny Vision, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based computer vision company headquartered in Bangalore, India. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 2013, Uncanny Vision develops next generation intelligent surveillance solutions for smart cities, smart buildings and infrastructure specifically for people and vehicle monitoring using security cameras. Eagle Eye Networks CEO Dean Drako tells SSI after evaluating more than a dozen AI companies, he and the Eagle Eye team began working with Uncanny Vision in 2020. Unlike other AI providers, Uncanny Vision has been focused on “AI for video surveillance since day one,” Drako says. Uncanny Vision surveillance is said to enable cameras to “see” and “understand” their environment instantly, using optimized real-time AI/deep learning algorithms. The company’s AI technology is depl

Allegion, Gallagher Launch First Integrated Electronic Lock for Government Procurement

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CARMEL, Ind. — Allegion U.S., a provider of security products and solutions, and Gallagher, a provider of access control and perimeter security solutions, announce that the U.S. government has approved their new electronic access solution. Schlage AD-302 FIPS 201-2 is integrated with Gallagher’s Command Centre security software platform and is the first electronic lock listed on the general services administration (GSA) Approved Product List (APL), according to the announcement. Schlage’s AD Series locks are adaptable, allowing for upgrades to be made without taking the lock off the door to ensure a seamless transition to new technologies in the future. The design replaces several pieces of equipment with one system that is said to be cost effective and require less time for installation. The solution combines the electrified lock, credential reader and access control sensors (door position switch and tamper switch), allowing for real-time communication and enabling centralized loc

COVID Pandemic Accelerated Adoption of Public Safety Technology: Study

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CHICAGO — Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI ), in partnership with a leading academic, independent research team directed by Dr. Chris Brauer at Goldsmiths, University of London, has conducted an expansive global study that uncovers how expectations for safety and security are changing while fueling public safety and enterprise innovation. The Consensus for Change report surveyed 12,000 citizens and interviewed 50 public safety agencies, commercial organizations and industry experts across 10 geographic markets (Australia, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, Nordics, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States). It analyzes how the global COVID-19 pandemic heightened awareness of the need for technology to enhance public safety while accelerating innovation and technology adoption for emergency services and enterprises around the world. “The pandemic fueled the need to use technologies in different ways to address new challenges within a rapidly evolving environment,” says Mahesh Sapt

SSI Honors 2021 Security Solutions Awards Winners at GSX

ORLANDO, Fla. — Security Sales & Integration announced the winners of its 5th Annual Security Solutions Awards program during Global Security Exchange ( GSX ). This is not a standard product awards program but rather something even more important to security professionals and their customers — it’s a measure of how manufacturers’ devices perform in actual deployments in the field. “Manufacturers claim their products are the ‘best,’ ‘first of its kind,’ ‘revolutionary,’ ‘game-changing’ and other such hyperbole. However, the real test ― especially when dealing in the sometimes life or death realm of security and safety ― is how those solutions truly meet the needs of both the security integrator and their customer. That is the true litmus test and why SSI founded the Security Solutions Awards,” says SSI Associate Publisher Scott Goldfine. “This program is both an outstanding platform for security product suppliers to showcase their wares and a unique source for integrators to i

Top 10 Security Stories From September 2021: Verkada Sues Motorola, Hikvision’s Vulnerability

September saw some big stories by some major players in the security industry. Motorola Solutions found itself in SSI ‘s two most popular stories this month. The first was an exclusive interview with executives from the company about its new Video Security & Access Control Business. You can find an extended version of that interview in podcast form here . Motorola was also sued by Verkada over a complaint Motorola filed with the United States International Trade Commission that claimed Verkada infringed on patents held by its subsidiary, Avigilon. In other legal news, ADT is being sued over the name of its Signal Chat solution by the organization behind the Signal messaging app for being too similar in name. ADT’s Signal Chat earned a TMA/ SSI  Monitoring Technology Marvel Award  runner-up honor in 2020 . In M&A, the access control market saw a huge one when ASSA ABLOY announced it signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI) division of S

ASSA ABLOY Integrates Aperio Wireless Tech With Qumulex QxControl Video Surveillance, Access Control

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. — ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions announces the integration of its Aperio wireless lock technology with QxControl from Qumulex, Inc., a provider of Cloud-based, unified video surveillance and access control. The Aperio integration offers Qumulex customers an easy way to connect additional openings to their new and existing QxControl installations, according to the company. Aperio is a global wireless platform that works with an extensive range of locking hardware from ASSA ABLOY Group brands, offering the flexibility to address a variety of applications throughout any facility. The platform uses wireless communication (IEEE 802.15.4) between the lock and an Aperio hub to provide real-time communication with the access control system. “The vision for Qumulex was to offer a Cloud-based video and access control solution that also allows you to manage both together in an open architecture environment,” says Tom Buckley, VP of marketing at Qumulex. “Partnering with ASSA A

TMA to Waive Member Registration Fees for Virtual Annual Meeting

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McLEAN, Va. — The Monitoring Association announces through the generosity of its meeting sponsors, TMA members may now register to attend its upcoming 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting for free. Nonmembers may also register at a reduced rate of $450 for the three-day education and networking meeting. The virtual meeting will take place Oct. 12-14. The 2021 event sponsors are: Platinum – Alarm.com, Johnson Controls, MAS and Resideo Gold – ADI, ADT and UL Silver – Altronix, CIBC, DMP and Salesforce Bronze – Bosch, OneTel and TRG Associates “TMA has been overwhelmed by the magnanimous generosity of our meeting sponsors who opted to support our 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting,” remarks TMA Executive Director Celia T. Besore. “Their financial support has made it possible for us to extend this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to all TMA members to take part in this meeting. We are so grateful to our sponsors for making it possible for so many monitoring center professionals to acquire valuable

Ring, The Home Depot to Offer ‘Ring Jobsite Security’ Bundle

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The popular Ring security brand embraced the custom installation channel with the introduction of its pro-exclusive Ring X line last year, and the Amazon company is showing more love for the pro installer community today by announcing Ring Jobsite Security to protect contractors’ project sites. Ring Jobsite Security incorporates the new Ring Alarm Pro, a unique alarm that, when paired with a Ring Protect Pro subscription ($20/month), offers professional monitoring and cellular connectivity to keep connected devices, like security cameras and even project tools such as laptops, online at a job. The company is partnering with The Home Depot, one of the biggest suppliers of resources for custom integrators, security installers and other smart home contractors. Available exclusively through The Home Depot, Ring Jobsite Security will offer add-ons that include a heavy-duty protective case for Ring Alarm Pro and Ring Power Packs, security cameras, smart lighting and various sensors. “The

ADT Faces Lawsuit Over ‘Signal Chat’ Name

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SAN DIEGO — The Signal Technology Foundation (STF), the nonprofit behind the Signal messaging app, has filed a complaint with the U.S. District Court against ADT for trademark infringement and unfair competition over the security provider’s Signal Chat solution. STF believes ADT’s Signal Chat is too similar to the organizations own Signal messaging app. Aside from the similar names, both services send private instant messages, primarily on mobile devices. The lawsuit , which was filed in California and references the state’s common law, states, “ADT has purposefully directed its conduct towards this judicial district and purposefully availed itself of the benefits and protections of California law by doing business in this state, including but not limited to actively advertising, marketing, distributing, and selling goods in the State of California, and in this judicial district, that bear the infringing trademark at issue in this case. Further, on information and belief, ADT also ac

Winsted Unveils New Vue and Sightline Consoles at GSX 2021

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BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Winsted, the global provider of configurable control room consoles and furniture, is introducing its Vue and Sightline consoles at GSX 2021 in Orlando, Fla. “Our new Vue and Sightline consoles and technical furniture line were developed as part of our continued mission to creating fully customizable, ergonomic control rooms,” says Winsted CEO Tracy Crocker. A press release describes the following: Vue Control Desk Winsted’s New Vue work stations are easily configurable for all environments and come in static or height adjustable. These configurable work stations offer different widths and connecting cabinets for accommodating multi-operator solutions. Horizontal/Vertical adjustable monitors mounts offer the best in class for ergonomic viewing. Five different color selections and three different worksurface options to match any interior decor requirements. All Winsted furniture comes with a 10-year manufacture warranty and is designed for 24/7 Mission Critica

Johnson Control’s New Illustra Pro Gen4 Cameras Bring AI to the Edge

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MILWAUKEE — Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI ) announces the launch of the Tyco Illustra Pro Gen4 2MP, 4MP and 8MP Edge-AI mini-domes. The company says these latest mini-domes are part of an ever-increasing portfolio of IP cameras that focus on delivering AI classifications, customizable rules and accurate event notification at the edge, while still maintaining the core attributes of ease of installation and enhanced cyber security. “Edge-AI is a critical building block for security ecosystems as our industry evolves from traditional centralized and on-premise processing models to more flexible, powerful and cost-efficient distributed edge and Cloud architectures. With the Illustra ProGen 4 cameras, we are focusing on the strategic importance of a solution for our customers, who require a high level of security without disrupting business operations,” says Gopal Paripally, vice president of engineering and technology, security products for Johnson Controls. This new line of cameras prov

Brinks Home Strikes Deal to Service AT&T Digital Life Customers

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It’s been eight years and change since AT&T Digital Life first brought its home security offering to the marketplace. Long live AT&T Digital Life. An email recently delivered to subscribers indicates the business will be essentially phased out by the time the telecom giant shutters its 3G network in February 2022. That’s not an insignificant exit, considering the hundreds of thousands of accounts involved. Which security provider is stepping up to seize all that potential recurring revenue and upsell opportunity? The answer can be found in the opening paragraph of AT&T’s subscriber email, which SSI has reviewed: As part of our network upgrade and the sunset of 3G in early 2022, your Digital Life controller which utilizes 3G will not be upgraded and your AT&T Digital Life service will be impacted. The good news is, we have worked with one of the most recognized names in security, Brinks Home, to provide you an opportunity to continue your home security and automation

Milestone Unveils Forensic Analytics Solution Enabled by Briefcam

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COPENHAGEN — With the introduction of XProtect Rapid REVIEW, Milestone Systems ‘ customers will be able to accelerate investigations and find what they are looking for with speed and accuracy, according to a press release. Enabled by BriefCam’s video analytics technology, hours of video recordings can now be reviewed in minutes, bringing enhanced decision-making and momentum to any investigation, the announcement states. Milestone’s XProtect Rapid REVIEW is described as an intelligent video analytics solution that allows security operators and investigators to efficiently search vast amounts of video recordings and pinpoint exactly what they are looking for in minutes. Related: New, 8th-Gen Axis Chip Improves Analytics on the Edge XProtect Rapid REVIEW is an add-on product that is seamlessly integrated into Milestone’s XProtect Smart Client. The product is available from October 27 and it is supported on all paid XProtect VMS products. “XProtect Rapid REVIEW is an ideal solut

PROTECH USA Introduces TDSi Access Control at GSX 2021

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SPARKS, Nev. — PROTECH, the North American subsidiary of VITAPROTECH of France, announces the introduction of its group sister company, TDSi of the United Kingdom, into the U.S. access control market at GSX 2021 in Orlando, Fla. TDSi provides a fully integrated access control and security solution that is said to be both cost effective for customers and drives margin generation for businesses. The GARDiS hardware and software ecosystem from TDSi will roll out in North America in 2022 delivering a new option in access control solutions. TDSi offers a full range of door controllers, card and credential readers – all driven through the GARDiS web-based access control software platform. “The features and functionality of GARDiS deliver peace of mind for customers through its intuitive and easy to set-up and install hardware and software,” explains John Davies, managing director of TDSi. “Through reduced installation time and cost per door, we are able to drive profit and productivity i

New, 8th-Gen Axis Chip Improves Analytics on the Edge

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CHELMSFORD, Mass. — Axis Communications sought to make one of the biggest splashes associated with this week’s GSX show in Orlando, Fla., by inviting security trade media to a presentation and news announcement titled, “Analyze This.” Held virtually due to many of the company’s personnel and industry reporters forgoing the expo due to the pandemic, the hourlong session celebrated Axis ’ historic milestones, covered the evolution of video surveillance technology and especially analytics, and concluded with the unveiling of the firm’s ARTPEC-8, the eighth generation of its custom-designed system-on-chip (SoC) for network video. Hosted by Axis Vice President, Americas and SSI Industry Hall of Famer Fredrik Nilsson, the discussion also included another Hall of Famer in Cofounder & Advisor New Business Martin Gren, along with CTO Johan Paulsson and Vice President of Strategic Innovation Matthew Tyler. OMDIA Global Research’s Oliver Philippou, research manager for physical security,

ADT’S New CMO Brings Consumer Marketing Experience From Kellog, McDonald’s

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BOCA RATON, Fla. — ADT announces the appointment of DeLu Jackson to serve as chief marketing officer (CMO), leading customer acquisition, marketing and advertising. Jackson brings with him a wealth of consumer marketing experience rooted in data and digital strategies developed while he was at Conagra Brands, Kellogg Company, McDonald’s and other brands. Jackson will lead marketing for ADT during a period of significant company transformation, activating important partnerships, such as ADT | Google, focusing on subscriber growth and delivering excellent customer experiences. “We’re thrilled to bring DeLu into the ADT family during a time of significant transformation as we prepare our next generation ADT | Google smart home security offering, roll out expanded e-commerce capabilities and re-examine the ADT customer journey from top to bottom,” says Keith Holmes, chief revenue officer of ADT.  “DeLu shares our passion for building a customer-focused organization, driven by data, and