Weston in Space

In this week’s Top Surveillance Videos… If you are going to serve a $4,000 liquor at your bar or restaurant, you might want to keep in somewhere safer than on the shelf with the rest of your stock. Surveillance video from a San Jose, Calif. restaurant shows a woman and two friends walk into the bar area. The woman goes behind the bar, briefly looks at the bottles and then makes off with a bottle of Louis XIII Cognac — which costs $4,000 and is said to be 100 years old. This type of cognac appears to be popular with beverage bandits. A few years ago, we saw a man steal the same kind from a liquor store by breaking into a display case and stuffing it down his pants . Also this week… Disturbing footage from onboard a school bus shows what happened to students after it was struck by a speeding car. The video begins with the students talking and laughing. Soon, a speeding car T-bones the bus, sending the kids flying across the aisle. At first glance, you may think the bus had rolled o

April saw many mergers and acquisitions throughout the month, but it saved the largest one for last. It didn’t take long for the news of Allegion acquiring Stanley Access Technologies to become the most read story of the month. The deal follows Stanley Black & Decker’s December 2021 sale of its Stanley Security integration business to Securitas AB for $3.2 billion in cash. Securitas also acquired Stanley Security Businesses in Asia and Europe in 2020 . Rumors began to swirl of Stanley Black and Decker potentially selling its security business during an earnings call in January 2020, where there were multiple references during the call for the potential to “monetize” the asset. In other M&A news, Motorola Solutions purchased advanced video analytics provider Calipsa to make it the latest addition to its Video Security & Access Control organization. Over the past several years, Motorola has snapped up Avigilon, IndigoVision, Pelco, Envysion and Openpath and most recently,

BETHESDA, Md. — Brivo, a provider of Cloud-based access control and smart building technologies for enterprise, announces the Brivo Unified Credential. The solution is a new cross-platform smart credential that is compatible with select wireless locks and Brivo Smart Readers to improve security while leveraging existing door locks and devices, according to the company. Brivo Unified Credential allows property owners and managers to issue a single keycard or fob that operates with Brivo Smart Readers and select Schlage locks and battery-powered Aperio locks from ASSA ABLOY. “With Brivo Unified Credential, we are simplifying and enhancing security, while also putting an end to insecure proximity cards,” says Brivo CEO and founder, Steve Van Till, also an SSI Industry Hall of Fame member . “Property managers and owners who demand the latest in access control can use Brivo Unified Credential when they also need the flexibility and convenience to leverage existing credentialed door loc

AUSTIN, Texas — System Surveyor has released the second edition of its Physical Security Industry Benchmark. The report is based on a survey administered in late 2021. More than 200 physical security professionals responded, including system integrators (49%), corporate and campus security staff (29%), and others such as manufacturers, A&Es and consultants (23%). It reveals that budgets and optimistic outlooks are up along with interest in/adoption of digital and collaborative system design technologies. However, similar challenges plague system integrators and enterprise security professionals year over year. Key Findings System Integrators: 91% have a favorable business outlook in 2022. Proposal opportunities are increasing but winning them is still an issue. “Low proposal-to-close win rates” remains a top challenge along with “gathering accurate customer site information” and “customers requesting multiple proposal revisions.” The biggest impacts to business also stayed

This month’s column shall be a continuation of my discussion on changes to NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, 2022 edition that was released in August 2021 by the NFPA Standards Council. Before I dive into that discussion, a few industry updates. It does appear that after a two-year period, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will hold a live annual meeting this June in Boston . It will be good to be able to have discussions with colleagues in person as opposed to just on the phone or in virtual meetings. While this month’s column is on changes to the 2023 version of NFPA 72, the work for the 2025 edition has already started. The closing date for Public Inputs is June 1, 2022. If you have any suggested changes to this document, now is the time to submit those changes. You do not need to be a member of the NFPA to submit a Public Input. I would also like to give an acknowledgement to Daniel Finnegan, manager of Industry Affairs for Siemens. After a long ca

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — PSA, the world’s largest consortium of professional systems integrators, announces its partnership with Magos Systems, a radar technology and perimeter protection solutions provider. Magos was established in 2008 to realize its co-founders’ vision of bringing advanced radar technology into the security and perimeter protection markets. “Magos’ radar and artificial intelligence (AI) technology is an exciting addition to our network of partners,” says Chris Salazar-Mangrum, PSA’s vice president of technology partners. “PSA supports Magos’ vision to provide supreme outdoor security solutions based on disruptive technologies and we know this partnership will greatly benefit our progressive integrators.” The company’s radars are said to have the best-in-class resolution and coverage, offering supreme detection under all weather and lighting conditions even in highly challenging, cluttered environments. Relying on cutting-edge radar technologies such as MIMO, digital

COPPELL, Texas — The newly announced IDIS AI Box for Retail (DV-1304) is a security solution designed to give retailers the benefits of A.I.-powered devices without the typical, associated price tag. IDIS says that as more retailers use analytic-driven metrics of in-store activities to increase sales and build customer relations, its new product makes an analytics approach more cost effective. “As retailers look to build customer loyalty and adapt to tough trading conditions, more than ever they need affordable tools and technology to help them drive efficiency across their operations. Video analytics has a vital role to play, and our AI Retail Box is designed as a practical, affordable solution that will deliver immediate advantages,” says Andrew Myung, president, IDIS America. The Texas-based company says the IDIS AI Box for Retail is an NDAA-compliant, 4-channel add-on appliance that provides users additional functions from their existing IDIS DirectIP network camera , NVRs or ne

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After two years of pandemic-related restrictions on gatherings, Snap One announces the launch of eight new Snap One Local Partner Stores, with grand opening events scheduled at each location between March and May this year. The events will include special deals on select products, giveaways, catered lunches and opportunities to meet with various vendors in attendance. According to Bill Zidek, Snap One vice president of sales, the new locations expand Snap One’s physical footprint to 34 locations across North America and offer local partners product training, same-day delivery and expert assistance from knowledgeable professionals. “The pandemic delayed our celebrations for several locations that officially opened in 2021, so we are now inviting our local integrator partners in these locales to reconnect with our teams and vendors and promote the new local shopping experience,” Zidek says. “We’ll also invite all attendees to join our new rewards program so they can

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Alula, a provider of smart security and system communications, announces the release of its new video platform. The platform features new camera models , AI-based object detection, enhancements to video clip navigation and viewing in the Alula Smart Security app, and advanced video capabilities through the new Slimline Touchpad PRO. These new products and capabilities strengthen the role that video plays as a core component of professional security, and further reinforces Alula’s position as a full-service solutions provider, according to the company. Three new cameras have been added to Alula’s video portfolio. The first is a modern, industrial-designed outdoor bullet — well-suited for viewing porches, alleyways, backyards and more. The second is a smart doorbell camera said to have robust and simplified aesthetics, improved motion detection algorithms and active motion highlighting. Related: Alula Rolls Out ‘Community for Alarm System Response’ The final

SECURE Perspectives is a monthly column by the  Security Industry Association  (SIA) profiling women in the security industry. This column is part of SIA’s  Women in Security Forum  (WISF), an initiative to support the participation of women in the security field through programs, networking and professional growth events and thought leadership opportunities. For this edition of  SECURE Perspectives , SIA spoke with Alice DiSanto of Rajant Corp. DiSanto is the 2022 recipient of the SIA Committee Chair of the Year Award , which recognizes individuals for excellence in leading SIA committees and advancing member objectives, and was also named to the inaugural SIA WISF Power 100 list, recognizing 100 women in the security industry who are role models for actively advancing diversity, inclusion, innovation and leadership in the community. SIA: How did you get into the security industry? Alice DiSanto: My pathway to the industry came from emerging robotics applications for security an

BREA, Calif. — Adding an increased level of safety to a restricted air space in Utah, several Antaira managed switches were installed to help construct a digital 3D protective shield. Antaira Technologies says its LMX-1202G-SFP-T Gigabit Managed Ethernet Switches were deployed inside multiple tall pillars surrounding the protected air space. The switches link together dozens of IP surveillance cameras , computers and a drone-detection radar system to the airport’s central control station. During the bid process Antaira says the integrator tried several network switches before choosing the LMX-1202G-SFP-T 12-port gigabit Light Layer managed Ethernet switch. The integrator used the 12-port Antaira managed network switch because in addition to its network capabilities, the IP30-rated unit provides DIN-rail mounting capabilities, and the ability to live in temperatures that range from -40° to 167° Fahrenheit. The West Coast industrial network equipment manufacturer explains that drones

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — ASIS Int’l announces it has opened registration for Global Security Exchange (GSX) 2022, a hybrid event taking place Sept. 12-14 that will offer a digital experience on the GSX online platform as well as an in-person event at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) in Atlanta. GSX is said to bring the entire world of security together in one place to stay ahead of the biggest trends and challenges — in access control, asset protection, surveillance , remote workforces, workplace violence, cybersecurity, business continuity, crisis management and more — through cross-industry networking and a full slate of specialized education with the potential to earn up to 22 CPEs. “Globally and locally, a rapidly evolving threat landscape is creating gaps in our defenses and cracks in practices and protocols we once thought were written in stone,” says Malcolm Smith, CPP, 2022 president, ASIS Int’l. “GSX is the industry’s most trusted event — and exactly where you and your team

DUBLIN — Allegion (NYSE: ALLE ), a leading global security products and solutions provider, announces it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Stanley Access Technologies and assets related to the automatic entrance solutions business from Stanley Black & Decker for $900 million in cash. In December, Stanley Black & Decker sold its Stanley Security integration business to Securitas AB for $3.2 billion in cash. Access Technologies is a leading manufacturer, installer and service provider of automatic doors in North America, primarily in the United States and Canada. Its customer base centers on non-residential settings, including retail, healthcare, education, commercial offices, hospitality and government. Access Technologies generated approximately $340 million in net sales in 2021. As a result of this acquisition, Allegion will significantly expand its breadth of access, egress and access control solutions. In addition, Allegion says it will have exposure to high-g

Industry standards provide the structure security devices require to meet performance expectations. For years, the aging Weigand standard, first introduced in 1976, served as the de facto way to wire a reader that helped drive a decades-long expansion of access control. Today, 98% of small businesses and larger enterprises still fully or partially use the technology. However, the industry has failed to adequately educate end users on the security risks of the 50-year-old technology. Wiegand is a one-way signal with no encryption between reader and door controllers. This is a fundamental security flaw. But with readers that work reliably for 15 to 20 years and wiring that lasts longer, there’s often no immediate financial reason to upgrade or replace these systems. Fortunately, there is an opportunity to move to a new standard — the Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP). OSDP incorporates the standards-based modern encryption to keep any location more secure. Related: The Quest

MELVILLE, N.Y. —  Verint Systems (Nasdaq:  VRNT ), global provider of security and intelligence data mining software, announces it will host its annual user conference, Engage, in Orlando, Fla., on June 13-16, 2022. The event is said to deliver a unique look into the technology and trends impacting the financial services market and how users can mitigate these challenges. Engage brings together leaders and practitioners across technology innovation, customer engagement and strategic leadership functions to embrace innovation and invent the future of the banking landscape. Verint says the customer experience has never held a more pivotal role in adopting and purchasing technology. Digital transformation and how teams work to secure and protect bank branches have changed over the past two years. There is now an increased focus on how banks integrate security technologies and mobility with business functions, finding ways to optimize operations while reducing fraud. “At Verint, we kn

In this week’s Top Surveillance Videos… While ideally no place should ever be robbed, crooks ought to have some sort of code of honor and label schools 100% off-limits. These institutions are a critical component of society and already have a difficult time obtaining the supplies they need. That’s what makes this security footage from a Harris County School in Texas so disheartening. Video surveillance shows a suspect making his way around the school taking TVs off the wall and stealing tablets and a laptop. At one point, the suspect can even be seen slithering down a hallway, presumably trying to evade security cameras or sensors. He then steals a school bus to make off with his haul of electronics. Also this week… Also in Texas, a suspect managed to break into a home by squeezing through a cat flap. If that wasn’t bizarre enough, surveillance video shows that the man showered and then cooked himself a snack. The contorting criminal attempted to steal a TV but was foiled by anti

NEW YORK — Automatic Systems, a leading manufacturer of secure pedestrian and vehicle access control entrance systems, welcomes two new regional sales managers to its U.S. team. Tanya Seaman joins the company as regional sales manager covering the Southern U.S. Together with Automatic Systems’ Regional Sales Manager Nate Lynn, she will be focusing on the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. Seaman has over 20 years of experience in the technology contractor space, including estimation, purchasing, account management and business development. Michael Stoll has also come aboard as regional sales manager, supporting the Mid-Atlantic region. His territory includes Delaware, Maryland, D.C., Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Stoll brings over 30 years of diverse experience in the security industry including project engineering, inside & outside sales, CAD & AutoCAD, project planning, negotia

As the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January sparked a new wave of autonomous vehicles (AVs) coming to the automotive market in the next few years, much focus as of late has been on the technology of these vehicles themselves. However, the technology embedded in road infrastructure is also beginning to see more conversation between service providers and municipalities. With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G network connectivity, smart-road infrastructure technology offers the promise of being added to many different roads, bridges and other transit systems across the U.S. in hopes of improving real-time traffic analytics and tackling the most challenging road safety and traffic management problems. One technology at the center of this discussion is on the present-day use of AI-enhanced cameras and tomorrow’s promise of LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology. AI Will Enhance Camera Sensing Performance Today, there are hundreds of thousands of traffic

AACHEN, Germany —   Utimaco, a global provider of cybersecurity and compliance solutions, announces it has signed a share purchase agreement with Celltick, a provider of public-warning and mass notification systems. Celltick is also a Cell Broadcast Center (CBC) provider, and according to Utimaco , recent natural disasters, healthcare crisis and military conflicts have put an increased emphasis on public-warning systems (PWS). The company points out the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC) is now making it mandatory for all members of the European Union (EU) to implement public-warning systems by June 2022. Over in Ukraine, Celltick is currently working free of charge with the State Emergency Service and three mobile network operators to deploy a national cell broadcast-based PWS to help protect civilians caught in the war. “We are very impressed with Celltick’s technology and its highly skilled team. Both are a perfect fit for Utimaco and a powerful addition to our team