Smart home

India’s foremost shop window and business hub for the security industry, Secutech India, is set to return from 25 – 27 April 2019 against a backdrop of rising government investment in smart city projects. Jointly organised by Asian Business Exhibition and Conferences Ltd (ABEC) and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd, the 2019 edition of the fair will introduce a new smart home zone to accommodate India’s growing home automation sector.    Indian security industryOn top of the commercial security and fire safety sectors, home security solutions are also on the rise" The show is set to kick off within the context of a positive outlook for the Indian security industry. Just one of many causes for optimism is the government’s commitment to smart city projects, which include investments totaling USD 7.3 billion in 100 cities across the country. These investments are bolstering the already promising surveillance and access control markets, which are forecast to grow at an impressive CAGR of approximately 10% and 15% until 2021.  “Thanks to positive market conditions and Secutech India’s track record of generating new business within the security industry, over 100 exhibitors have signed up to exhibit at this 8th edition of the fair,” said Ms Regina Tsai, Deputy General Manager, Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd. “On top of the commercial security and fire safety sectors, home security solutions are also on the rise. To meet the sourcing requirements of this growing sector, we are delighted to have added a new ‘smart home zone’ to this year’s show floor. Visitors to the zone will find the very latest home video surveillance systems, alarm systems, access control systems and integrated home networks.” Fire and Safety India In total, trade visitors will have 15,000 sqm of exhibition space to explore during the fair. While the new smart home zone will be of great interest to these visitors, the show’s commercial security suppliers are likely to remain the largest attraction for buyers. Assa Abloy, Avigilon, CP Plus, ESSl, Hikvision and Veracity, are just a few of the well-known brands that will be displaying their latest video surveillance, analytics, biometrics and access control technologies for the commercial security sector during the fair. The show will also welcome the return of the concurrent ‘Fire and Safety India’ event In addition, the show will also welcome the return of the concurrent ‘Fire and Safety India’ event. The event provides coverage to the entire spectrum of fire safety products, including the likes of fire detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting, escape ladders, evacuation equipment and fire protection gear. Strong Channel Buyer Turnout With so many crossover sourcing opportunities on offer between the security, fire safety and smart home sectors, fair organisers are anticipating a strong turn out from channel buyers. At the previous edition, the fair attracted over 18,000 visitors, including builders, developers, system integrators, distributors, consultants and project owners. Thanks to its extensive series of forums and seminars, Secutech India serves as the perfect occasion for industry players to gather the latest market intelligence. This year, fair organisers have collaborated with knowledge partners PwC India and MitKat Advisory to design a programme that will tackle the most important issues facing the regional security industry. India's smart city projects The panel discussions will focus on the future of India’s smart city projects One of many highlights is the ‘Smart Urban Infrastructure – Monitoring & Surveillance Framework’ panel discussion, which will take place on the first day of the fair. The panel discussions will focus on the future of India’s smart city projects, as well as cyber security, emergency preparedness, and emergency response mechanisms. In addition, the third day of the programme will be dedicated solely to the fire and safety sector, with a series of seminars covering safety solutions for India’s densely populated urban areas. A hands-on training experience for fire safety practitioners and corporate professionals will also feature, in the shape of the ‘Fire Safety Volunteer Training’ programme. Run by the State of Maharashtra Fire Services, the training will give participants information on different types of fire-fighting equipment and how to use them correctly during fire incidents. Attendees will also learn about fire safety legislation, fire drills, evacuation procedures, fire safety precautions, and the most common causes of fire. Consultant Consortium On top of the fringe events, a number of new business matching programmes will be introduced to connect exhibitors with the most appropriate stakeholders. The ‘Consultant Consortium’, for example, is a business matching and networking forum dedicated to connecting exhibitors with mechanical engineering and plumbing consultants, contractors, HVAC consultants, as well as façade and architectural consultants.  

Revolutionising how throughput is maximised in Milestone Systems video recorders, BCDVideo releases the BCDVideo Accelerator (BVA) equipped video recording servers for Milestone, which incorporate the company’s innovative accelerator technology and eliminates the need for extra storage solutions, including the costly and space-consuming 15,000rpm hard disk drives previously required to attain necessary system bandwidth. “BCDVideo is dedicated to solving challenges in the security marketplace,” said Tom Larson, Chief Technical Officer, BCDVideo. “The new BCDVideo Accelerator is a leap forward in system bandwidth for video surveillance systems, benefiting both our security integrator customers and their end users by reducing costs associated with data storage.” Newest security products BCDVideo validated the new system using Milestone’s XProtect Corporate R1 2019 at 700MBps throughput, and up to 2.2GBps throughput when adding a 10GbE Network Card Kit. Using existing technologies, a best-practices Milestone server needs eight Live Video 15K drives to maintain a 700Mbps throughput. The BVA Accelerator solution eradicates the need, and instead, replaces them with an additional 112TB of archival storage, thus reducing the financial overhead a second server requires, including in additional maintenance, power consumption, and labour costs. System showcase at ISC West 2019 The BVA Accelerator will begin shipping to customers in March. The company will showcase the system at ISC West in April. ISC West is the largest converged security trade show in the U.S., covering video surveillance, access control, biometrics, smart home, public security, drones, robotics, and more. Conference attendees showcase the newest security products and technologies, network with colleagues and security professionals, and gain valuable industry training.

Comelit Group, as a founder Partner to The Security Event, will be exclusively presenting its very latest smart solutions in stylish door entry, home automation, fire and CCTV at the premiere industry exhibition. On stand SE28, Comelit will be launching its innovative Switch solution, which has been developed solely for installers to enable a simple ‘switch’ upgrade to an audio or video panel option. Easy upgrade opportunity Also exclusively previewed at The Security Event is Comelit’s latest simple to install Ciao audio panel, with die-cast aluminium front panel that can be assembled in many configurations to suit all housing needs in a simple and functional way. Live demonstrations of Comelit’s specialist Mini Handsfree monitor with integrated Wifi create an easy upgrade opportunity to installers Comelit will be showcasing its latest updated architect-designed video doorbell, Visto, with an ability to connect via a home WiFi network to allow homeowners to see, hear and speak with visitors at any time, or from any location via a smart phone or tablet. Live demonstrations of Comelit’s specialist Mini Handsfree monitor with integrated Wifi create an easy upgrade opportunity to installers. Alongside Comelit’s new App, it allows homeowners to benefit from instant intercom control and smart door entry capability with both Comelit’s VIP and 2-wire SimpleBus systems. Fully integrated solution Says Francesca Boeris, Managing Director Comelit Group UK: “The Security Event promises to be a great exhibition, which has really captured the imagination of the industry. As a founder partner, it has been really exciting to watch it come together from concept to show and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand.” Our aim is to demonstrate Comelit’s true ability to achieve bespoke security fire and requirements" “The timing was also crucial for us to present a wealth of new product solutions across our range of door entry, home automation, fire and CCTV. Our aim is to demonstrate Comelit’s true ability to achieve bespoke security fire and requirements with a fully integrated solution, all offered with latest smart technology and without compromising on style.” Ease of installation Comelit’s stand will also be presenting its new fire range of Third-Party accredited high-specification solutions, including a full range of addressable and conventional systems. A latest range of CCTV systems, including Comelit’s state-of-the-art AHD100 series to complement the professional CCTV range will be on display. The AHD100 comprises three DVR versions at 4MP with the possibility to offer four to six channels, six cameras and 2 PTZ. Francesca concluded: “The Security Event is a perfect platform for Comelit to not only present its all-encompassing product portfolio, but also demonstrate to visitors the ease of installation and smart upgrade opportunities, all completed to the highest of industry standards and without compromising on the style and aesthetics that is synonymous with the Comelit brand.” For more information on Comelit Group or its product range, please visit stand SE28 at The Security Event, taking place between 9 – 11 April 2019 at The NEC Birmingham.

Electric Productions presents ‘Trending Today’, a television series airing Saturday, February 23 on Fox Business at 12:00 PM EST featuring Business Leaders and Lifestyle Innovators. This episode of Trending Today features Swann Communications, the pioneer of DIY security systems. Swann is a global leader in security monitoring, consumer electronics and security-centric solutions for the smart homes and businesses of today and tomorrow. Surveillance and monitoring technology  With a presence in over 40 counties and on six continents, Swann remains at the forefront of innovative surveillance and monitoring technology with new product developments including truly wire-free HD cameras and doorbells, state-of-the-art professional-quality CCTV video surveillance recording systems and cameras, including the latest 4K ultra HD, five and three megapixel super HD, and 1080p full HD systems with True Detect heat and motion-sensing technology. The Swann product range is designed to make the latest security solutions accessible, affordable and easy to use. At Swann, our focus is on using cutting edge technology for preventative security" In this informative Trending Today segment, viewers learn about the challenges facing the industry and how Swann is providing solutions. The company's vision is to be the world leader in smart security solutions, taking care of people and making every home and business a safe place. Home and business needs, and technology, continue to evolve but Swann's commitment is to always deliver security made smarter. Preventative security technology "We are proud of participating in this series and hope it raises awareness of not only our product offerings, but also the role that your security company can play in providing peace of mind that your home and family are safe," said Jeremy Stewart, Vice President of Global Marketing at Swann Communications. "At Swann, our focus is on using cutting edge technology for preventative security." Michael Stankoski, Production Manager for ‘Trending Today’ said, "Working with Swann Communications has been such a cool experience. They are making a difference in their communities and offering much-needed security solutions. It was so interesting to learn about all of their truly revolutionary products."

It’s not surprising that people are nervous about the security of newer technologies, many of which are part of the Internet of Things (IoT). While they offer greater efficiency and connectivity, some people still hesitate. After all, there seems to be a constant stream of news stories about multinational corporations being breached or hackers taking control of smart home devices. Both of these scenarios can feel personal. No one likes the idea of their data falling into criminal hands. And we especially don’t like the thought that someone can, even virtually, come into our private spaces. The reality, though, is that, when you choose the right technology and undertake the proper procedures, IoT devices are incredibly secure. That said, one of the spaces where we see continued confusion is around access control systems (ACS) that are deployed over networks, particularly in relation to mobile access, smartcards, and electronic locks. These technologies are often perceived as being less secure and therefore more vulnerable to attacks than older ACS systems or devices. In the interest of clearing up any confusion, it is important to provide good, reliable information. With this in mind, there are some myths out there about the security of ACS that need to be debunked. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter Myth #1: Mobile credentials are not secure The first myth we have to look at exists around mobile credentials. Mobile credentials allow cardholders to access secured doors and areas with their mobile devices. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter about the security of credentialed information. There is a persistent belief that Bluetooth is not secure. In particular, people seem to be concerned that using mobile credentials makes your organisation more vulnerable to skimming attacks. While focusing on the medium of communication is an important consideration when an organisation deploys a mobile credentialing system, the concerns about Bluetooth miss the mark. Bluetooth and NFC are simply channels over which information is transmitted. Believing that Bluetooth is not secure would be the same as suggesting that the internet is not secure. In both cases, the security of your communication depends on the technology, protocols, and safeguards we all have in place. So, instead of wondering about Bluetooth or NFC, users should be focused on the security of the devices themselves. Before deploying mobile credentials, ask your vendor (1) how the credential is generated, stored, and secured on the device, (2) how the device communicates with the reader, and (3) how the reader securely accesses the credential information. When you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS Myth #2: All smartcards are equally secure The question “how secure are my smartcards?” is a serious one. And the answer can depend on the generation of the cards themselves. For example, while older smartcards like MiFARE CLASSIC and HID iCLASS Classic offer better encryption than proxy cards and magstripe credentials, they have been compromised. Using these older technologies can make your organisation vulnerable. As a result, when you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS. In this way, you will be protecting your system as well as your buildings or facilities. Some traditional readers and controllers can also pose a serious risk to your organisation if they use the Wiegand protocol, which offers no security. While you can upgrade to a more secure protocol like OSDP version 2, electronic locks are a very secure alternative worth considering. It is also important to understand that not all smartcard readers are compatible with all smartcard types. When they are not compatible, the built-in security designed to keep your system safe will not match up and you will essentially forego security as your smartcard-reader will not read the credentials at all. Instead, it will simply read the non-secure portion—the Card Serial Number (CSN) —of the smartcard that is accessible to everyone. While some manufacturers suggest that this is an advantage because their readers can work with any smartcard, the truth is that they are not reading from the secure part of the card, which can put your system and premises at risk. Using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication Myth #3: Electronic locks are more vulnerable These days, there are still many who believe that electronic locks, especially wireless locks, are more vulnerable to cybercriminal activity as compared to traditional readers and controllers. The concern here is that electronic locks can allow cybercriminals to both access your network to get data and intercept commands from the gateway or nodes over the air that would allow them access to your buildings or facilities. The reality is that using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication. Additionally, because many of these locks remain operational regardless of network status, they provide real-time door monitoring. This means that many electronic locks not only prevent unauthorised access but also keep operators informed about their status at all times, even if a network goes down. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks When it comes to deploying electronic locks, it is important to remember that, like any device on your network, they must have built-in security features that will allow you to keep your information, people, and facilities safe. Be prepared to unlock future benefits Ultimately, the information in your IP-based ACS is at no greater risk than any other information being transmitted over the network. We just have to be smart about how we connect, transmit, and store our data. In the end, maintaining the status quo and refusing to move away from old technology is not a viable option. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks. The reason it is so important to debunk myths around ACS and, at the same time, get people thinking about network security in the right way is that network-based systems can offer an ever-increasing number of benefits. When we deploy new technology using industry best practices and purchase devices from trusted vendors, we put ourselves and our networks in the best possible position to take full advantage of all that our increasingly connected world has to offer.

Users of security systems have long been willing to sacrifice certain aspects of security in favour of convenience and ease of use. The tide seems to be turning, however, with the industry at large showing significant concerns over cyber security. End user sentiments also seem to be following that trend, becoming more cautious when it comes to having their security systems connected to the internet. While it has become the norm for security systems to be accessible online, still it presents security threats that unconnected systems would not face. In 2018, we saw a notable shift from the convenience of a connected system to the less convenient, but more secure, standalone system. Consumers are willingly making the choice to trade convenience for security, and companies are responding. While cyber security concerns will continue to be a big topic of discussion, connected platforms will probably be the trend of 2019This in turn is driving an increase in more IoT-like deployments. Rather than the traditional client that is connected to a device to retrieve information, more often we are seeing more active devices, capable of reporting their presence and transmitting information on a scheduled basis, without the need for a client. Preventing security systems from outside threats This changes the dynamic of the network and alleviates many threats associated with traditional systems because there is no opportunity for outside threats to access your system since the device is transmitting information out vs requiring a connection to the outside world. With IoT deployments, when the device is active and sending messages out of the network segment, it is not vulnerable in the same way that the traditional systems are. While cyber security concerns will continue to be a big topic of discussion, connected platforms will probably be the trend of 2019. In 2018, we saw an increased acceptance in the residential market for smart home applications. While this has been an area of discussion for the past ten years, it is now gaining real traction. With artificial intelligent capabilities in tow, smart home deployments are more common than ever and the video analytics that accompany them are quite impressive. Cloud security for the commercial sector If consumers are trusting their home security systems with this, it only makes sense that they will begin trusting Google to provide security for their offices as wellIn addition to the residential market, connected platforms will likely start to impact the commercial space as well. The border between consumer and commercial user will become a little more blurred. Companies such as Google that cater primarily to home services have cloud capabilities beyond the means of many competitors, in turn giving them a favourable advantage to provide security for the cloud. If consumers are trusting their home security systems with this, it only makes sense that they will begin trusting Google to provide security for their offices as well. As far as ONVIF is concerned, we are excited to see how the market will adopt the newly released Profile T for advanced video streaming in the coming year. We are also excited to explore our relationship with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), by continuing our work on giving devices the ability to communicate upwards and proactively. It is clear that the market is open to adopting models in the quest for more efficiency without sacrificing security.

Market dynamics are changing the U.S. residential security market, creating new business models that better appeal to the approximately 70% of households without a security system. Smart home adjacencies have helped revitalise the traditional security industry, and alternative approaches to systems and monitoring for the security industry are emerging, including a new batch of DIY systems. Growth in the residential security market and its position as the channel for smart home solutions have attracted numerous new entrants. Telecoms, cable operators, and CE (consumer electronics) manufacturers are joining traditional security players as they compete to fulfill consumer demand for safety and security. Connected products also provide a layer of competition as consumers must decide whether having category devices such as doorbell video cameras, networked cameras, and other products suffice for their security. Increasingly competitive landscape Smart home services can provide additional revenue streams for the security industry For instance, IP cameras are a highly popular smart home device rooted in security, and Parks Associates estimates 7.7 million standalone and all-in-one networked/IP cameras will be sold in the U.S. in 2018, with $889M in revenues. Product owners may feel their security needs are fulfilled with this single purchase, as such dealers and service providers are under increasing pressure to communicate their value proposition to consumers. Categorically, each type of player is facing competition uniquely—national, regional, and local dealers all have a different strategy for overcoming the increasingly competitive landscape. Smart home services can provide additional revenue streams for the security industry. In Parks Associates’ 2017 survey of U.S. security dealers, 58% report that smart home service capabilities enable extra monthly revenue. Almost half of dealers also note they have to offer smart home devices and services in order to keep up with their competition. While white-label devices are acceptable in some instances, dealers need to integrate with hero products whenever possible when those exist for a category. For dealers who have added smart home devices and services are all potential benefits and good for business Improved customer engagement That 2017 survey also revealed 36% of security dealers that offer interactive services report security system sales with a networked camera and 16% report sales with a smart thermostat. For dealers who have added smart home devices and services, enhanced system utility, increased daily value, and improved customer engagement with the system are all potential benefits and good for business. Security has served as the most productive channel for smart home solutions, mainly because the products create natural extensions of a security system’s functions and benefits, but as smart home devices, subsystems, and controllers expand their functionality, availability, and DIY capabilities, many standalone devices constitute competition to classical security. Particularly viable substitute devices include IP cameras, smart door locks, smart garage doors, or a combination of these devices. Products that are self-installed offer both convenience and cost savings, and these drivers are significant among DIY consumers—among the 6% of broadband households that installed a security system themselves, 39% did it to save money. Enhance traditional security Self-installable smart home devices may resonate with a segment of the market who want security While many security dealers believe substitute offerings are a threat, some dealers do not find such devices an existential threat but instead view them as another path to consumer awareness. They argue that the difference between smart product substitutes and traditional security is that of a solution that provides knowledge versus a system that gives one the ability to act on that knowledge. A common theme among professional monitoring providers is that a homeowner who is aware of events happening in the home does not necessarily have a secure and protected household. For example, a Nest camera, a DIY product, notifies a consumer via smartphone about events in the home when it detects motion, but only when the notification is opened and identified will a consumer be able to act on the related event. Self-installable smart home devices may resonate with a segment of the market who want security but are unwilling to adopt professional monitoring; however, providers can leverage these devices to enhance traditional security features and communicate the value of professional monitoring. Smart home devices and features, while posing a threat to some security companies, are a potential way forward to increased market growth Increased market growth A key counterstrategy for security dealers and companies is to leverage their current, powerful role as the prime channel for smart home devices. Many security dealers now include smart home devices with their security systems to complement their offerings and increase system engagement. For example, as of Q4 2017, nearly 70% of U.S. broadband households that were very likely to purchase a security system in the next 12 months reported that they want a camera to be included as part of their security system purchase. In response, many security system providers now offer IP cameras as optional enhancements for their systems. Smart home devices and features, while posing a threat to some security companies, are a potential way forward to increased market growth. Security dealers have an opportunity to become more than a security provider but a smart home solutions provider rooted in safety. Provide status updates Comcast has entered both the professionally monitored security market and the market for smart home services The alternative is to position as a provider of basic security with low price as the key differentiator. Comcast has entered both the professionally monitored security market and the market for smart home services independent of security. It has discovered that monetising smart home value propositions through recurring revenue becomes increasingly challenging as the value extends further away from life safety. Since the security industry remains the main channel for smart home services, security dealers are in a unique position to leverage that strength. Value propositions must shift from the traditional arming and disarming of a system to peace-of-mind experiences that builds off the benefits of smart devices in the home to provide status updates (e.g., if the kids arrived home safely) and monitoring at will (e.g., checking home status at any time to see a pet or monitor a package delivery). These types of clear value propositions and compelling use cases, which resonate with consumer and motivate them to expand beyond standalone products, will help expand the home security market.

If you’re heading to ISC West in Las Vegas this year, it’s helpful to acknowledge immediately that there’s no way you can experience all aspects of the show. Just not enough time and too many options. Once you give up on seeing everything, you can immediately lower stress. But you also raise the stakes in terms of picking and choosing exactly what you have time for – or want to make time for. Hoping to help out as we all set our ISC West priorities, here are some ways to make the most of ISC West. Get there early If you think the show starts on Wednesday (April 10), you have already missed the boat. Wednesday is the first day of the ISC West Exhibition, but there is a whole day of conference programming the day before – on Tuesday, the 9th. So plan to arrive early for conference sessions such as the End User Physical Security and Strategic Management tracks, a whole day of presentations by the PSA Security Network, and many other conference sessions. Learn from the best You can also learn about Body-Worn Cameras for Government Personnel, School Safety and Private SecurityWant to hear about Taming the Surveillance Data Monster? There’s a session on Thursday. Want to learn about Establishing a Corporate Drone Program? That session is on Wednesday the 10th. They’re among the wealth of information-sharing sessions at ISC West. You can also learn about Body-Worn Cameras for Government Personnel, School Safety and Private Security; 3D Virtualisation for Physical Security; and Using Enterprise Security Risk Management to Define Security's Value. Plan for the future So much at ISC West is geared toward the future – new opportunities, tomorrow’s hot new product, and the start of business ventures that will be profitable for years to come. Some of the conference sessions are especially forward-looking, too, including a session on Thursday about the Stadium of the Future. A session called Getting Smarter and Safer: The Campuses of Tomorrow is on Wednesday, April 10. Another Wednesday session is Meet the Jetsons: Understanding the Promise and Challenges of Smart Cities. The Vision of the Future of the ISOC (Intelligent Security Operations Center) is on Thursday, as is the Smart Home of the Future session. All in all, ISC West can help you focus on the future in a big way.  Meet someone new Programs like SIA’s New Product Showcase can help, by recognising innovation in a variety of product categoriesISC West sometimes emits the vibe of a yearly reunion of friends (who happen to be in business together). It’s great to see old friends again, but we shouldn’t miss the chance to meet new people, too. There is a multitude of networking events related to the industry’s big spring gathering, so the opportunities to expand one’s network and meet new people are abundant. Making the most of them takes effort, and some level of strategy. And there are also other, not-so-obvious moments to make new friends and acquaintances – whether it’s sharing a taxi or waiting for the next session to start. Bring a lot of business cards Find something new The chance to view industry innovation is a huge draw of ISC West, but it can take discipline to separate the wheat from the chaff. The latest-and-greatest could literally be anywhere on that big trade show floor. Programs like SIA’s New Product Showcase can help, by recognising innovation in a variety of product categories. The announcements of winners will be made on April 10, and, historically, these awards have gone to some of the newest and most innovative products at ISC West. A What’s New at ISC West session on Wednesday can provide additional guidance. Do good in addition to doing well A 10-year tradition at ISC West is the Security 5K/2k Run/Walk, a charity event benefiting Mission 500’s fundraising efforts to assist children in crisisISC West is all about business, but there’s also a specific opportunity to help make the world a better place. A 10-year tradition at ISC West is the Security 5K/2k Run/Walk, a charity event benefiting Mission 500’s fundraising efforts to assist children in crisis around the world. Why not avoid a late night on April 10th and rise early on the 11th to be a part of a remarkable event that has united the security industry to provide aid for children in need? Say thank you Showing gratitude is an under-emphasised opportunity at ISC West, where the promise of new fortunes can eclipse our successes of the past. We will all see colleagues and friends we have been doing business with for years, so what better time to express a simple ‘thank you’, buy them a drink, propose a toast, celebrate? Helping to set a tone of gratitude is the ‘Official ISC West Customer Appreciation Party’ on Thursday. Parties are one way to say thanks, and a heartfelt verbal expression is another. ISC West will provide plenty of both – and they’re not to be missed.

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.”

Security is among the defining topics at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 this week in Las Vegas. More than 4,500 exhibiting companies are participating, including some 1,200 startups, highlighting the next wave of innovation in consumer electronics – and security. Twenty-four product categories at CES feature solutions to transform how consumers live, work and play. Technologies being highlighted include 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality, smart homes, smart cities, and machine intelligence. Video is an important element at CES. This year, the focus is on intelligent video. For example, Eyecloud.ai, Santa Clara, Calif., is displaying a home security camera with on-device face recognition that uses AI. Powered by a 12-core Intel Movidius VPU (video processing unit), the camera combines AI-on-the-edge with easy setup and wirefree operation for up to six months per battery charge. On-device artificial intelligence On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation SimCam, an Intel partner, demonstrates how the Intel Movidius VPU can turn a security camera into ‘the ultimate vision-based sensor’. On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation. A variety of other residential video systems are also on display at CES. For example, Swann Security is displaying 4K wired security systems featuring Google integration, a wireless smart security camera with True Detect heat-based PIR (photo infrared) motion detection, a video doorbell and chime with two-way talk, and indoor and outdoor wi-fi cameras with Alexa integrations. Intelligent automotive solutions Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES. It combines advanced image processing, high-resolution video encoding and CVflow computer vision (video analytics) processing in a single, extremely low-power design. The CVflow architecture provides Deep Neural Network (DNN) processing required for a new generation of affordable and intelligent home monitoring, professional surveillance and aftermarket automotive solutions. CV25 offers half the performance of Ambarella’s previously released CV22 chip, but the new chip’s lower cost will bring intelligent cameras to a price point desirable for home systems. All Ambarella’s chips have hardware-based cybersecurity. A suite of advanced cybersecurity features protects against hacking, including secure boot, TrustZone, and I/O virtualisation. Based on 10nm ultra-low power processing technology, the CV25 chip is optimised for wirefree cameras applications that require long battery life and small form factors. Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES Virtual security guards Elsewhere, the Deep Sentinel home security system applies video and AI to predict residential break-ins ‘before they happen’. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based tech startup uses ‘AI-infused security cameras’ to keep an eye on your home. Three wireless 1080p full HD cameras provide night vision and PIR motion sensing, connected by a smart hub. Using proprietary artificial intelligence, the cameras act as virtual guards, watching activity around a house and providing alerts to situations that may lead to burglaries, break-ins, package thefts and other dangers. My Safe Patrol is an AI-driven platform that analyses data aggregated from security personnel, citizen alert systems and IoT smart devices, and responds with geolocated alerts in real-time. My Safe Patrol effectively supports the security/safety ecosystem of a building, a campus, a city or a district through a dynamic dashboard that helps command and control operations manage and deploy security plans. AI-integrated devices Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously MicroVision, Redmond, Wash., showcases an interactive display engine for AI-connected devices, providing an integrated solution for projected display and interactivity through multi-point touch and air gestures. MicroVision’s new consumer 3D LiDAR engine provides high-fidelity spatial awareness to smart home hubs, for input to smart devices such as lighting, security, entertainment, and thermostats. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, and ThroughTek Co., Ltd., Taiwan, demonstrates IoT developments to transmit voice, video and data over both wide- and narrow-band channels in smart home applications. Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications combined with voice assistant to companion robots, wireless doorbells, and battery cameras to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously. Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen Decayeux Group, a European manufacturer of mailboxes and high security doors, is displaying MyColisBox, a secure and connected parcel box delivery system designed to provide online shoppers a secure pickup point accessible by a PIN code sent via SMS message to a smartphone. Walter is the new mobile app for MyColisBox. Kwikset, a division of Spectrum Brands, showcases its smart lock portfolio – including three new smart locks – in the CES Smart Home Marketplace. Kwikset is showing the SmartCode 888, Kwikset Convert, Obsidian, and new designs of the SmartCode 914 and SmartCode 916, as well as a new wi-fi lock. Baldwin, Kwikset’s ‘luxury lock’ sister company, is offering a preview of its new TouchScreen Collection, launching this summer, available in five styles and featuring Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen technology. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, with many companies demonstrating IoT developments Cyber security standards Privacy is increasingly a concern in the consumer space, and Private Discuss, from PIMAN Security, is a premium, secure, white label communication solution. Their active AI-powered defense architecture provides encrypted audio and video calls, messaging and file sharing. It renders a confidential, secure messaging platform that adheres to the highest standards of cybersecurity. FLIR provides virtual reality demonstrations at their CES booth, allowing attendees to put on a virtual fire helmet and try out a FLIR camera in a real-world residential fire response scenario. Participants may also use a FLIR optical gas imaging camera virtually to stop fugitive emissions in a natural gas refinery. Booth visitors may also take “thermal selfies” to post on social media.

Wilson James has appointed SmartTask as preferred technology partner and awarded it a deal for the supply of a mobile patrol and electronic smart form solution for a new security contract with National Museums. Under the agreement, the company will now roll out the SmartTask workforce management software to 10 sites including the Natural History Museum, V&A and Science & Industry Museum. This follows a successful trial that achieved significant time savings by removing paperwork and streamlining operational processes. The new partnership between Wilson James and SmartTask will replace an incumbent supplier agreement that no longer met the business and operational requirements of the security, construction logistics and business services provider. Identify potential benefits In particular, the retender process for the security contract with National Museums required a single provider of a highly-configurable mobile patrol and electronic smart form solution. An initial trial at the Natural History Museum focused on use of electronic forms via SmartTask-enabled smartphones to reduce administration and increase productivity of operational staff. The trial highlighted the clear benefits of using the SmartForms, most notably around confiscated items and vehicle forms It was designed to identify potential benefits based on the precise requirements of the customer as well as create a suite of seven SmartForms and reports that could deliver standardised data capture and analysis. This included confiscated items and vehicle check SmartForms, scenario testing and incident reporting. The trial highlighted the clear benefits of using the SmartForms, most notably around confiscated items and vehicle forms. Required monthly reports Confiscated items, following bag searches carried out at point of entry, historically required between 10-15 minutes to complete and during that time the security officer was away from the floor resulting in lost productivity. Following the adoption of SmartTask, reports can now be created automatically using highly-accurate data, while paper usage and printing requirements have been dramatically reduced. The time savings achieved at the Natural History Museum by the Wilson James team have led to higher productivity, greater capacity to carry out bag searches and increased visibility of security staff. Management time saving have also been realised in production of required monthly reports, as well as administration savings of 12-hours per week for the Security Duty Managers. Ease of deployment Don McCann, Technology Systems Consultant at Wilson James commented: “SmartTask provided significant support throughout the contract bid and contributed to the successful re-signing for a further five years.” SmartTask has also handled a separate project for Bradford Science Festival, which further demonstrated the flexibility of the system" “The solution is now fully operational at five locations – Natural History Museum, National Science & Media Museum, National Railway Museum, Science & Industry Museum and a Wandsworth storage site – with the Science Museum and V&A to follow shortly. SmartTask has also handled a separate project for Bradford Science Festival, which further demonstrated the flexibility of the system, ease of deployment and its suitability for the security sector.” Enhance customer satisfaction Paul Ridden, CEO of SmartTask said: “This latest agreement demonstrates our ability to work closely with our customers to develop advanced workforce management solutions that support business development, customer retention and quality service delivery. We are now partner of choice for a growing number of security organisations based on our proven track record helping to tackle some of the most common and difficult operational challenges they face.” SmartTask is an advanced and simple-to-use employee scheduling and mobile workforce management solution that enables security companies to better plan and manage their workers, so they are at the right place, at the right time. The cloud-based software solution combines intelligent rostering, live monitoring and integrated proof of attendance across both static and mobile teams, making it the ideal tool to improve operational control, enhance customer satisfaction, and support duty of care to staff.

iLOQ has signed an agreement with leading residental developer Bonava Finland Oy. Under the agreement, the majority of new buildings developed by Bonava will be equipped with iLOQ’s unique digital locking and access control solutions. The agreement is initially valid until the end of 2020. iLOQ will supply unique self-powered locking and access management solutions to buildings developed by Bonava“We are happy about the upcoming collaboration. The new agreement with Bonava shows that digital access control has made its way into new construction. Digital access management will replace mechanical locking in the future, and this is a change where iLOQ is at the very forefront. The agreement is also a strong indication of us reaching a point in our growth where we are more strongly present in the production of new buildings,” says Heikki Hiltunen, President & CEO of iLOQ. iLOQ will supply unique self-powered locking and access management solutions to buildings developed by Bonava. The agreement aims to increase collaboration between iLOQ and Bonava and makes iLOQ’s self-powered locking and access management solutions available to an increasing number of tenants. Digital locking system for tenants’ security With iLOQ’s locking system, the tenant can move around the neighbourhood using a single key with access rights that can be modified"“This is a fine step for Bonava and provides a good starting point for future living solutions. Bonava wants tenants to be able to move around in their neighbourhood easily and safely, which is possible with a digital locking system. With iLOQ’s locking system, the tenant can, for example, move around the neighbourhood using a single key with access rights that can be modified. New lock series are not necessary if the key is lost and using the key also leaves a mark that makes it easy to track possible misuses,” says Kaisu Nousiainen, Head of Design and R&D at Bonava. “Digital locking and access management are strongly linked with the living of the future, and we are a pioneer in the digitalisation of the locking industry. People are interested in smart home technology. Digital development makes the everyday lives of tenants and other users significantly easier. Due to the collaboration, an increasing number of tenants are able to enjoy the security digital access management brings,” states Toni Päivinen, Head of Sales Finland at iLOQ.

Sonitrol, the provider of verified electronic security, announces the successful implementation of a Sonitrol TotalGuard system for 4EverReady Home Care, located in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio. TotalGuard, innovated by 3xLOGIC, has alarm verification capabilities that detected an incident outside the premises, which led to a successful resolution of a potential false alarm situation. 4EverReady Home Care is a privately-owned home care agency based in Dayton, Ohio. The organisation is committed to providing clients with the highest quality care possible, while allowing them to maintain both freedom and independence in the comfort of their homes. Incident triggered alarm 4EverReady has two locations, in Cincinnati and Dayton. Late on a recent evening, surveillance video from inside the Cincinnati location showed a person standing outside the office when suddenly a car drove by the intersection. The person in the video made a hasty retreat from the building and crossed the street. What had happened? “We recognised the man in the video, he’s often in the neighbourhood and because our offices are all glass looking out to the street, we can observe him and others walking up and down the nearby sidewalks,” recounted Lisa Roberts-Rosser, Executive Consultant for 4EverReady. “Because this incident triggered an alarm from our system, Sonitrol of SW Ohio brought the video to my attention, I was the first person called. I knew the man in the video, and I’d never seen him move that fast.”Sonitrol operator was able to quickly determine that the offices were not in danger of a break-in, therefore, this was not an active alarm Area under protection The Sonitrol operator was able to play the video with the related audio to figure out that the passing car had actually fired (turned out later) a paintball gun at the man in front of 4EverReady’s offices, causing him to flee. More importantly, the Sonitrol operator was able to quickly determine that the offices were not in danger of a break-in. This incident occurred outside the area under protection; therefore, this was not an active alarm so no further action was necessary. “We installed the Sonitrol TotalGuard system back in April and our system’s two cameras give us all the visibility we need. Our office is essentially one big room and the cameras give views in the office and through the windows into the immediate neighbourhood,” Roberts-Rosser explained. Motion detection technologies In addition to video surveillance with video and audio alarm verification, the TotalGuard system includes glass break detection and motion detection technologies. 4EverReady has also installed a Sonitrol Cloud Access, which provides key fob entry through the office main entrance. Roberts-Rosser and any other staff with privileges can remotely arm and disarm the TotalGuard system with a smartphone through the available Sonitrol mobile app. “TotalGuard provides us complete alarm verification capability, and the mobile app definitely works well for us,” she explained. “If there is a time that someone has forgotten to arm the system upon exiting at the end of the day, I can arm the system from home or wherever I am.” Legitimate alarm situation 4EverReady has a consultant that uses the office space for meetings after hours, to prevent any interruption of the normal daily work flow. Roberts-Rosser can program the TotalGuard system from anywhere, at anytime, to grant the consultant access when it is needed. The sensitivity of our system is impressive, when it was first installed it was alarming because of loud music outside, cars backfiring, and other loud noises In addition to TotalGuard picking up an incident outside the area of protection, Roberts-Rosser said there has been a process to calibrate the system to be as effective as possible. “The sensitivity of our system is impressive, when it was first installed it was alarming because of loud music outside, cars backfiring, and other loud noises. Once a neighbourhood child pulled on the door while horseplaying around and that definitely caused an alarm. Working with Sonitrol, we’re able to verify all of these incidents to make sure we are only contacting the police when it’s a legitimate alarm situation.” Highly-effective system As is becoming abundantly clear in recent years, police forces are not unlimited resources. Sonitrol TotalGuard has proven to be a highly-effective system in cutting costly, even dangerous, false alarms. “TotalGuard is a technology package no other company is offering security customers, it is a genuine game changer, and this incident proves the technology goes above and beyond in protecting customer’s property, even if the action is well outside the area under surveillance,” said Alison Shiver, Marketing Manager, Sonitrol of SW Ohio.

ProdataKey (PDK), an innovator of cloud-based networked and wireless access control products and services, and Dwelo LLC, a provider of smart-home solutions purpose-built for apartment owners, managers and residents, has announced a partnership that is seamlessly integrating PDK’s cloud access control technology into the Dwelo smart apartment platform. Dwelo’s web and mobile software, which currently offers apartment dwellers the ability to control smart devices such as light switches, thermostats and door deadbolts for their individual units, has added features to manage access to common areas of their building or community, such as entry gates, clubhouse, gym and laundry facilities.  These spaces can now be secured by PDK’s cloud access control solution, pdk.io, providing apartment property managers and owners with valuable operational efficiencies. The administrative software interface, not visible to residents, enables management to easily establish and enforce authorised hours of use for common facilities. An audit trail reports all traffic into the property, including any one-time credentials issued by residents, which can be used to assist in investigations in cases of theft or vandalism. When residents move out, their access to unit, common, and perimeter access is immediately deactivated, eliminating the risks that accompany traditional keys that would otherwise remain in circulation. The system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue  Scalable and affordable security solutions Beyond operational efficiencies, residents can unlock perimeter and common doors or gates using the same mobile app they use to control their apartments. In addition, they have the ability to use their phones or computers to generate temporary, one-time credentials that allow visitors, delivery and service people to gain access as needed. These features add to the conveniences afforded to residents living in Dwelo-enabled smart apartments.  Both Dwelo and PDK have built successful businesses by leveraging the power of cloud technology to create scalable, affordable solutions that offer unprecedented ease of installation for contractors and simple usability for customers. With their combined areas of expertise in home automation and security, together they see an opportunity to serve a large and generally neglected market sector – apartment renters who desire the same smart home technological conveniences as today’s home owners and seek out communities that offer those smart home solutions. The Dwelo/PDK solution is available for both new construction and retrofits. After an initial per-unit installation charge, the system is subscription based, with property managers able to recoup the cost in both efficiencies and enhanced revenue.  Enhanced apartment living “Dwelo is thrilled to be partnering with such an innovative company as PDK. PDK is a technology leader in the electronic access control space, and Dwelo and its customers are already benefitting from their forward-thinking approach to access." Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector" "The consolidation of smart home control and perimeter and common area access control, in one platform, is a powerful marriage for multifamily property owners. We look forward, with PDK, to crafting more solutions that address the specific needs of these customers,” says Mike Rovito, CEO of Dwelo, LLC. “PDKs solution has been embraced by customers in the commercial sector for its simple ease of use and platform flexibility. Our wireless and PoE options allow for cost-effective takeover of legacy equipment, while supporting new construction projects with all the benefits derived from leveraging the network." "Our mantra, simplicity without compromise, dovetails perfectly with Dwelo’s corporate mission to enhance apartment living through easily accessible IoT technology. Our partnership will bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders involved within the multi-family residential market sector,” says Evan Tree, CEO of ProdataKey.