Smart home

Spearheading the intercom sector with cutting-edge technologies and unique applications, Akuvox earned the spotlight at four recent security trade shows. The excitement surrounding Akuvox’s booths included cloud intercom solutions, smart home integration and the use of artificial intelligence. Akuvox cloud intercom solutions  Over 80% of Akuvox’s visitors inquired about its cloud intercom solution. This indicated that it’s the prime time for the industry to adopt cloud for stellar user experience and additional revenue streams. Unlike its competitors, Akuvox offers more flexible solutions which better align with diverse requirements of different countries and regions. Though rooted in security and communication, Akuvox also received much attention from smart home professionals. Harnessing the power of Android via a decade’s R & D, Akuvox provides an easy solution for converging intercom with home automation. Its Android indoor monitor runs smart home apps like Zipato, Fibaro, iRidium and Control4 without a glitch. AI-enabled door phone, R29S Moreover, the AI-enabled door phone, R29S, definitely caused a stir. Visitors flocked to the booths to try out its facial recognition feature. A disruptor, Akuvox is among the world’s firsts to introduce AI into intercoms. By continuously optimising the algorithm since then, R29S is now able to carry out split-second verifications with high accuracy. A home base of deep innovation legacy, bright technical minds and strong service awareness, Akuvox is well-positioned to increase the value not only for homes and buildings, but also for its partners.

ISC East, in collaboration with premier sponsor, the Security Industry Association (SIA), reported strong growth results at the conclusion of this year’s industry event in New York City. The International Security Conference & Exposition is the Northeast’s largest security trade show, where close to 7,500 security and public safety professionals convened this month to meet experts from over 300 leading security brands, all the while co-locating with the launch of Unmanned Security Expo New York and Infosecurity North America, Europe’s global information security event. Welcoming 85 new companies and brands and close to 1,000 more industry professionals compared to 2017, the ISC East exhibit hall bustled and featured expanded in-depth content - including new technologies and product categories, more special events/networking opportunities, and a variety of all-new complimentary education through SIA Education@ISC and Unmanned Security Expo New York. Comprehensive Security for a Safer, Connected World The extensive variety of vendors and professionalism of the ISC staff make it one of the best shows out there" Mary Beth Shaughnessy, Event Director for ISC Security Events, noted, “It was exciting to see such a robust expo floor and high attendance growth with our New York event this year, all while matching up to our brand theme of Comprehensive Security for a Safer, Connected World. The top attended education sessions were formed around a diverse spectrum of topics including cyber-physical integration, converged security for smart cities buildings, the impact of IT and AI on video surveillance/intelligence, critical incidents prevention and mitigation, plus drones, drone-detection, drone-regulations and policies, and more. The present and future is bright for ISC East and we are committed to providing great solutions and education for this community.” Over the past 4 years, the ISC East Show Floor has grown by over 60% in square footage and has come to be known as ‘the highlight of the year,’ stated by Linda Esposito, Security Specialist of US Postal Inspection Service. “The extensive variety of vendors and professionalism of the ISC staff make it one of the best shows out there. In addition, Alex Pachikov of Sunflower Labs, a first-time exhibitor at Unmanned Security Expo, commented, “This was the perfect venue for us to introduce the Sunflower Labs drone-based security system. We had the perfect audience and fantastic exposure to potential customers, installation partners and system integrators.” Unmanned Security Expo Additionally, while Unmanned Security Expo presented 15+ sessions dedicated to the in-depth issues, policies and opportunities for UASs and UGVs, the SIA Education@ISC East program offered 25+ complimentary education courses and highlighted two distinct Keynote Speakers for the first time at ISC East - Philip Halpin, Senior Vice President & Head of Global Security for Brown Brothers Harriman, and James A. Gagliano, Retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, CNN Law Enforcement Analyst, and Adjunct Assistant Professor at St. John’s University. SIA Education@ISC East 2018 SIA Education@ISC East 2018 was a great success, with hundreds of conference attendees participating in education sessions, engaging keynotes and hands-on workshops" “SIA Education@ISC East 2018 was a great success, with hundreds of conference attendees participating in our education sessions, engaging keynotes and hands-on workshops,” said Don Erickson, CEO of the Security Industry Association. “This year’s sessions highlighted cutting-edge topics like the move to smart cities, convergence in the security industry, the use of artificial intelligence in video analytics, and how some legacy connections leave modern access control data vulnerable to hacking.” With so much learning and knowledge-sharing happening on the show floor, security professionals still found time to participate and engage at the numerous special events that ISC East had to offer, including: the first-ever SIA Women in Security Forum Breakfast, the new Mission 500 Hygiene Kit Building, the ever-popular ASTORS Homeland Security Awards, ISC East’s Featured Product showcase featuring some of the most innovative product technologies, a high-profile celebrity appearance of former NY Yankees player Tino Martinez , the signature ISC East Grand Opening Ceremony, the  Crack the Tap Cocktail Reception, and so much more. ISC Security Events As ISC East comes to a close, the ISC Security Events portfolio continues to provide comprehensive security for a safer, connected world through ISC West and Unmanned Security Expo, and Connected Security Expo taking place on April 9-12, 2019 (SIA Education@ISC: April 9-11 | Exhibit Hall: April 10-12) in Las Vegas.

Gira, one of the global full-range suppliers of intelligent system solutions for building management, make light and blind control easy with the launch of its brand new and highly informative instructional video for the Gira System 3000. The Gira System 3000 is an advanced blind and light control system that one can control in their home with the touch of a button, conveniently controlled through the Gira App or Display timer. Smart technology in home has never been easier, more convenient or eco conscious: helping one to save on utility bills by lowering the blinds and minimising potential heat loss when needed. The System 3000 blind control customised time program is also available with an astro function for added convenienceWith the option to control either manually or automatically, one can store their own personal blind control settings at the push of a button: spanning movement times for all seven days or customised separately for weekdays and the weekend via the menu. Dynamically adapt to weather changes The System 3000 blind control customised time program is also available with an astro function for added convenience. The integrated astro function makes it possible to dynamically adapt to changes in sun position and light phase automatically: sunrise and sunset and the changeover between summer and winter season. Did you know that statistically, illuminated and/or lived-in properties are less likely to be burgled? Gira gives special importance to high levels of functionality with a view to increase build security with 21st century intelligence. For example, the Gira System 3000 makes it possible for one's home to mimic habitation by opening/closing the blinds: ideal when planning a long holiday, business trip or the property is a second home. Controlling the blinds via Gira App The Gira System 3000 operating top unit memory can store both an individual intermediate position and a time for raising and loweringIn addition, the Gira System 3000 operating top unit memory can store both an individual intermediate position and a time for raising and lowering. If Memory Mode is activated, both functions are repeated in a 24-hour cycle. In Night Mode, the status and function LED are not permanently illuminated: meaning a more comfortable, unbroken sleep! For even more user convenience, Gira recommends to download the Gira App so one can control the blinds and lighting from the comfort of their sofa or remotely, via a smart phone or tablet. The operating unit is bluetooth enabled, and the App has a clear display and a large screen that is perfect for keeping control of all the settings: as it easy to copy programmes from other units that have already been created. Making lives easier and convenient Mark Booth, Managing Director at Gira UK Ltd, comments “We have a notable aptitude for perfecting both form and function, but above all else, making lives a little easier, more convenient and safer for our customers. As a result, our highly intuitive and intelligent systems have been designed to create a working brain in your home so that it starts to enrich your lifestyle, personal preferences and daily routine.” All this can be achieved at the push of a button and features include: Illuminated digital display Five operating top units Touch sensitive display Blind timer for ease of use Separate program settings available Simple button controls Bluetooth enabled Personalisation Astro setting Memory mode

Johnson Controls announces the release of Metasys 10.0, designed to deliver more unified building management. This latest Metasys release provides facility personnel with smarter building automation, faster responses to critical alarms and new integrations with fire detection, security and lighting systems – all with visibility from a single common interface. Metasys 10.0 integrations Metasys 10.0 introduces a new and improved set of integrations. These include new integrations with C·CURE 9000 Access Control and victor Video Management Systems, and simpler integrations with SIMPLEX Fire Systems and with lighting systems from leading lighting providers. “Metasys has always delivered a strong integrations platform, but we’re really excited about how easy we’re making it for customers to integrate both HVAC and non-HVAC systems into Metasys 10.0,” said Chris Eichmann, vice president and general manager, Global Controls Products, Johnson Controls. “Providing our customers with access to critical system data from a single, intuitively-designed interface makes it faster and easier for them to do their jobs. We’re seeing some great early successes at sites like Georgia-Pacific in Atlanta.” Metasys Application Programming Interface Metasys API enables data to be securely extracted from Metasys 10.0 and integrated with Johnson Controls or third-party data visualisation tools for robust data analysis A new Metasys Application Programming Interface (API) enables data to be securely extracted from Metasys 10.0 and integrated with Johnson Controls or third-party data visualisation tools for robust data analysis and reporting. Several new hardware devices were also added to Metasys 10.0, including: Two new equipment controllers with removable screw terminal blocks for easy installation, high capacity memory and fast processing A new 4-in-1 network sensor series with the ability to sense temperature, humidity, CO2 and occupancy – all with one sensor A new TEC3000 thermostat controller with color touchscreen Metasys User Interface (UI) Another innovative feature is Ethernet ring topology support for Metasys IP equipment controllers. Delivered as part of Johnson Controls’ collaboration with Cisco, it allows controllers to be configured in a ring network, improving system reliability and resiliency. As part of the new Metasys release, the Metasys User Interface (UI) introduces several new features that reduce operators’ time on task. A key feature is the ability for users to schedule reports to be delivered via email and save and execute report templates on demand, reducing time spent configuring and providing reports. Efficient building management and automation For more than a quarter century, Metasys building automation has delivered consistent results to meet even the most complex building management needs. This new major release keeps today’s buildings on top of change, with all the Metasys benefits one expects, including: Operational savings through extended building management capabilities and enhanced productivity Energy savings through coordinated control, precise data and peak equipment performance IT and platform security through best-practice processes Faster troubleshooting and response through advanced diagnostics Greater occupant comfort, security and satisfaction

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.

There’s growing noise around smart homes and smarter security. You’ve probably heard it. But there is a place where access control and more have been smart for decades: the workplace. Home automation and IoT are still playing catch-up with the commercial sector. A new insights report from ASSA ABLOY and IFSEC Global — “The Smart Door Locks Report 2018” — measures just how fast consumer smart technology is running. According to a survey conducted for the report, 61% of households now claim to own at least one smart home device or system. Energy monitors, home CCTV cameras, intruder alarms and smart door locks are the most popular, according to the report. All these functions, of course, have been available to businesses for years.61% of households now claim to own at least one smart home device or system Educating the smart home consumer Paradoxically, report data also questions how much consumers really know about their smarter home. A surprising 42% of those surveyed, for example, were unaware they could control a smart door lock from their phone. In fact, many leading smart door lock models offer this feature, delivered by Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and an app. Despite a wealth of features offered by the latest smart door locks — remote and location-based locking/unlocking; voice activation; timed access; emailed entry alerts; and integration with smart camera and lighting systems — most people still have limited knowledge of their capabilities.  Smart technology is increasingly becoming the new norm in terms of home security  Only 14% of survey respondents described themselves as “very familiar” with what a smart lock can do. Even though most of them probably use smart access control solutions at their workplace. Secure homes through smart technology Monitoring and security are not the only drivers for smart home adoption. We humans also love convenience, and modern living presents us with problems that smart home technology can solve. Ironically, given the report’s findings, it takes a smartphone to really unlock the convenient possibilities of smarter living. The device that’s “always to hand” is central to the newest generation of smart door locks.A smart door lock is a convenient way for a landlord or agency to offer round-the-clock check-in and check-out If homeowners wish to remotely manage property access for friends and family, many smart door locks oblige. You let in guests remotely, send them a virtual digital key, or provide a temporary or single-use PIN to unlock the door. It is just as easy to revoke a digital key, if you don’t want its owner to come around anymore. This is a significant improvement over sharing physical keys — or hiding one under the doormat. We cannot be totally sure where a metal key ends up and have no way to track or cancel it once it’s “out in the wild”. Commercial access control offers such functionality as standard, of course.  In addition, smart door locks offer more than just stand-alone operation and clever functions. In a domestic setting, magic happens when locks work in harmony with a home automation system, connected by protocols like Z-Wave, ZigBee or Wi-Fi. "Smart" security on the move  The smartphone is becoming a remote control for managing a connected life beyond just home (and even workplace) security. According to Accenture, the parcel delivery services market will grow by $343 billion by 2020. Just like home security, convenience is a major driver of change. Homeowners can send guests a virtual digital key to their phones, or provide a temporary or single-use PIN to unlock the door A recent PostNord pilot in Sweden aimed to remove the inconvenience of waiting home for a postal delivery. Selected customers of some major Scandinavian e-retailers could choose to have parcels delivered inside their front door, if it was equipped with a Yale smart door lock.  Home delivery is among potential smart services covered in “The Smart Door Locks Report 2018 ”. When asked whether the ability to receive parcels securely in a porch or lobby would make them more likely to invest in a smart door lock, 79% said it would.It is easy to revoke a digital key, if you don’t want its owner to come around anymore Holiday rentals and smart home tech ASSA ABLOY research published in 2017 forecasts continued growth in the European holiday rentals sector (at 5.8% CAGR). Smart door locks are also making an impact here, at both ends of the market: for service providers — agents and homeowners — and for travellers. A smart door lock is a convenient way for a landlord or agency to offer round-the-clock check-in and check-out, without creating extra work or staff costs. Both Intersoft, in Croatia, and Hoomvip in Spain have built holiday rentals management systems around an app and the ENTR® smart door lock. Agents issue, revoke, track and manage virtual keys for all their guests, saving everyone time and hassle. Travellers use their phones and an app to unlock their apartment. For these visitors the smartphone is already an essential travel accessory. It is a boarding pass, a credit card, a travel guide, and a postcard home... why not a door key, too? And if this key is backed by a trusted home security brand — and a company with vast experience in the mature market for commercial “smart” security — better still.

Dennis Sage Home Entertainment, Phoenix, is a best-in-breed audiovisual contracting services firm that gradually began expanding its offerings to security several years ago. After testing the waters, hiring experienced technicians and learning about the parallels with its current business, the company made a successful transition. Now, Dennis Sage, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), is also counting on heightened customer engagement and stickier clients as he moves into the role of total solutions provider through interactive, smart home services. Founded in 1995, Dennis Sage Home Entertainment first focused on providing the best service for the design, sale and installation of high-quality audio, video and home entertainment systems. Since then, they’ve racked up a long list of prestigious awards, accolades and recognition from local, national and regional trade and business resources.  Security and smart home services The company specialises in working with builders, establishing long-term relationships with local contractors. Those builders especially have propelled successes with its Alarm.com offering, which is extremely attractive to potential homebuyers. “It’s all about engaging customers today,” said Dennis Sage, president and CEO. “Alarm.com is constantly pushing the envelope. The user interface is on point and keeps improving. As an authorised Security and Smart Home service provider, we have access to tools and resources that allow us to go directly to the client and show them the growing suite of available interactive services.” Products like Skybell, Amazon Echo and the Apple Watch are coming up more and more in conversations between service providers and their customers Popularity for smart functionality rises “The high level of engagement is huge for us,” said Marty Hayse, Director of Sales and Purchasing. “Once the client has interactivity with tablets and smart devices, they want more. The platform provides an additional facet to safety and comfort consumers haven’t previously been able to attain.” Other industry trends are swaying the proliferation of interactive solutions. Popular consumer products are making their way into security and professionally monitored smart home systems. These products provide customers an easy way to engage with their systems daily, a key factor to help service providers lower attrition. Now, products like Skybell, Amazon Echo and the Apple Watch are coming up more and more in conversations between service providers and their customers, said Jay Kenny, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Alarm.com, Tysons, Virginia. "The platform is designed to provide a variety of options to upsell in the future with additional services and components" “When you engage customers with experiences, it ultimately creates a long-term relationship,” Kenny said.  “The platform is designed to provide a variety of options to upsell in the future with additional services and components.” Alarm.com’s technology and cloud services include interactive security, energy management, video monitoring, intelligent automation and wellness, with smart devices easily controlled through a single app. Connected devices boost value Kenny said more connected devices equals heightened value to the end user. “It’s those ‘ah-hah’ moments the consumer experiences that make services exciting. For example, if they forget to close the door they get an alert and close it from their Apple Watch. Or, they can add voice commands with Amazon Echo to turn lights on and off. It’s this experience that makes the product exciting. All this creates engagement and boosts the lifetime value and longevity of the account.” The solution set for security and audiovisual systems installations is broadening. Dealers who create long-term relationships through interactive services are on target for ongoing success. “Single-handedly, Alarm.com, with their advancements in products and new technologies, has changed the landscape of how we do business,” commented Dennis Sage. “They want us to be the best we can be.” Save

ISC East is making a name for itself as a must-attend regional conference and trade show in New York City that brings together the large community of law enforcement and private sector security professionals from the Tri-State area. ISC East, being held Nov. 14-15 at New York’s Javits Center, is emerging from the long shadow of its sister show – ISC West in Las Vegas in the spring – and making its own mark on the industry. ISC East is 20% larger than last year, and exhibitors have swelled from 230 to more than 300. Familiar names at ISC East this year (who were absent in 2017) include Allegion, Arecont Vision Costar, Bosch Security Systems, and Seagate Technology. In all, there are 115 new exhibitors compared to 2017.Familiar names at ISC East this year (who were absent in 2017) include Allegion, Arecont Vision Costar and Bosch Security Systems “We purposefully make sure we reflect the region we are in,” says Will Wise, Group Vice President, Security Portfolio, Reed Exhibitions. “It’s not a mistake that both our keynote speakers have New York-centric backgrounds and have topics to reach a larger market. We want to tap into the strengths of the region.”  ISC East (International Security Conference & Exposition) has come a long way in the last five years. In 2014, the show was a mere 28,000 square feet, and this year it has grown to 44,000 square feet of exhibit space. One factor driving growth has been improvements in the educational session, powered largely by show partner Security Industry Association (SIA). The two-day event is characterised by “good energy” on both days, says Wise. There is less than 10% duplication of attendance with ISC West. Liability issues of event security A big topic for New York and surrounding areas is event security, and one session covers “Confined Space Protection & Risk Mitigation for Today’s Industry Leaders.” The session will focus on safeguarding event organisers’ brands, protecting them from liability, and balancing the need for security that doesn’t negatively impact the “guest experience.” One factor driving growth has been improvements in the educational session, powered largely by show partner Security Industry Association (SIA) Liability issues of event security are especially timely now, given MGM Resorts' recent lawsuit asking the courts to protect it from legal liability in the wake of the Las Vegas massacre last October.  “Event security is integration of physical security with smart technology and not being overzealous,” says James DeMeo, Founder, President and CEO of Unified Sports & Entertainment Security Consulting LLC. DeMeo’s presentation on event security is one of the “back by popular demand” sessions at ISC East – there was a big turnout for his previous sessions at last year’s ISC East and at ISC West.  “A big part of event security is integrating technology, but we also need the human element,” says DeMeo. “Good guest security and harmonious relationships require a level of training that includes escalation, behavioral analysis, and communicating more harmoniously.” ISC East is 20% larger than last year, and exhibitors have swelled from 230 to more than 300 Holistic approach and technology integrations From the session, DeMeo hopes attendees will take away awareness of the need for responsible social media monitoring, integration of technology, threat behaviour analysis and early attack indicators, proactive risk mitigation, and staff training. The emphasis is on a holistic approach “from the top down and the bottom up,” says DeMeo. “It’s a sophisticated niche based on potential liability, and we must do everything possible to protect fans and patrons.” Crowd security is another ISC East topic that is tailor-made to the New York location of the show Crowd security is another ISC East topic that is tailor-made to the New York location of the show. A session on installation of safety and security barriers to protect pedestrians and crowds is another session that is “back by popular demand.” Rob Reiter, co-founder of the Storefront Safety Council, will present the session on protecting urban environments.   Another return session is about drone security and regulations. It will provide an overview of current policy and regulatory framework and provide understanding of how to get involved in the discussion to enable drone use in security applications. Converged security and smart cities A new session at ISC East this year will be “Smart Cities, Smart Buildings and the Evolution of the Converged Security Approach.” Pierre Bourgeix, president of ESI Convergent, will help attendees understand converged security and how it relates to the smart cities and smart buildings movement. Located on the ISC East exhibit floor, Unmanned Security Expo will include exhibits and demos of UAVs, UGVs and autonomous systems SIA and ASIS International will present findings from a study on how successful individuals can gain experience and skills they need to advance their security careers.  Co-locating with ISC East will be the Unmanned Security Expo, which focuses on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Ground Robotics & Vehicles (UGVs), counter-drone solutions and software applications to support them. Located on the ISC East exhibit floor, Unmanned Security Expo will include exhibits and demos of UAVs, UGVs and autonomous systems. Also co-locating with ISC East will be Infosecurity North America, which includes a conference program with well-respected industry speakers, an expo floor and networking opportunities.

When Linus Yale Sr. invented the pin tumbler cylinder lock, it was the start of an iconic security brand that would eventually be known all over the world. What began in a lock shop in Newport, New York, would eventually evolve into the global presence of the brand “Yale” that we know today. The Yale brand was purchased in August 2000 by the Swedish lock manufacturer ASSA ABLOY Group, which expanded Yale’s global presence in the ensuing years and recently has led the way into smart locks and building automation. This year, ASSA ABLOY is marking the 175th anniversary of the Yale brand. Global home security brand “People all over the world trust the brand to protect what they love most in their homes,” says Kate Clark, Managing Director of Yale EMEA at ASSA ABLOY. Although Yale has a successful commercial sector business in the United States, in the rest of the world Yale is a residential brand. The Yale brand is well known in 130 countries from Australia to the Czech Republic to Colombia, and is popular in Africa, too. In the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) market alone, Yale has around 20,000 products; that’s without counting products sold in the Asia-Pacific and Americas regions. Yale is familiar as a generic term for “lock” in some areas and is one of the largest home security brands in the world. Expansion into digital locks Good old-fashioned cylinder locks still look nice and cost the right amount of money, so they are in demand “I think we stand for safety, quality and reliability, and that hasn’t changed,” says Clark. “It’s as important now as ever. We have tried to pioneer new technology in the industry, new innovations. The rate of acceleration has increased, and there are so many technologies we have to understand and work with.” Growing beyond its heritage in mechanical locking systems, Yale is now expanding into digital locks that can protect homes with a high level of security synonymous with the Yale brand. The current selection of locks includes partnerships with tech brands such as Nest Labs (Google) and Alexa (Amazon). There is a rapid acceleration of growth in the electro-mechanical lock market. But even as the focus expands to smart locks and partnerships with tech companies, Yale continues to dedicate time and resources to the design of their core mechanical products. Good old-fashioned cylinder locks still look nice and cost the right amount of money, so they are in demand. Yale padlocks and bike locks also keep the name top-of-mind. There’s an ongoing education process as home locks expand beyond the use of mechanical devices and even personal identification (PIN) codes. Beyond mechanical locks and PIN codes “It’s important for people to know that we have been around a long time, and we want to celebrate that,” says Clark. “It’s a fantastic story around the brand and what we have achieved. Internally we have a lot of people doing a lot of great things with the brand. We inspire people working with the brand and show them that this is the pedigree, and it should be cherished. We are also raising awareness among younger people, so they know that we are still relevant.” We have an obligation to show people that the new technologies are just as secure as mechanical locks" There’s an ongoing education process as home locks expand beyond the use of mechanical devices and even personal identification (PIN) codes. “We have to take people on a journey,” says Clark. “We have an obligation to show them that the new technologies are just as secure as mechanical locks. If we eliminate PIN codes, we have to do it in a secure and safe way. Then suddenly access to your home can be made available by a company you trust.” Smart home security “We have a responsibility to do our best job with the new technology – it’s wonderful, but it needs to be used correctly,” says Clark. “I personally feel a responsibility to do that in the right way.” For example, in working with Amazon and Alexa to remotely authorise the delivery of a parcel to a home, concerns of security must be weighed carefully along with issues of convenience. “It’s important that we get the balance right,” says Clark. “We need to know the right person is giving the right voice command to lock a lock. We have to be true to our core as ‘security first.’” Will Yale be here another 175 years? Clark says she doesn’t expect to be around to find out but will do her best to preserve and promote the brand until she hands it off to a new caretaker.

Newly modernised halls with lots of daylight will house hundreds of exhibitions and conference events at the upcoming Security Essen 2018 at Messe Essen, Germany. A new layout and hall numbering system will be unfamiliar to past attendees but promises to simplify the experience as it brings together attendees and exhibitors. European physical security market Security Essen is an international trade fair, but the emphasis is more on German, Austrian and Swiss companies. In all, Security Essen will feature 1,000 exhibitors from 40 nations. The trade fair has more of a continental European “flavour” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market. At the last Security Essen in 2016, organisers reported about 40,000 visitors including conference participants, VIP guests, members of various delegations and journalists. Security Essen 2018 has more of a continental European “flavour” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market  “This year, we have sharpened the profile of Security Essen,” says Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, a trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. “The trade fair has become considerably more digital, more modern and more interactive. Due to the optimised hall layout, we are offering our exhibitors and visitors the best possible experience with short paths and direct communication.” Newly modernised Messe Essen The newly modernised site of Security Essen will encompass eight halls, newly renumbered and with the subject areas reorganised, too. Visitors will find Services in Hall 1; Access, Mechanatronics, Mechanics and Systems in Halls 2 and 3 and the Galeria; Perimeter Protection in Hall 3; Video in Halls 5 and 7; and Fire, Intrusion and Systems in Halls 6 and 7. A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS), will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan; the exhibitor list with booth numbers and contact information; and an overview of the supporting programme. A separate hall – Hall 8 – will house new Cyber Security and Economic Security categories. Cyber Security Conference At the new Cyber Security Conference, located prominently at the new East Entrance, experts will share their knowledge about the more pressing challenges and potential of cybersecurity. The programme opens and closes on 25 and 28 September with the main topic “Opportunities and Risks of Cyber Security”. On 26 September, discussions and lectures will centre on “Entry, Admission, Access: Identification Options”.A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan On 27 September, the topic will be smart homes and focus on “Connected Building, Security in the Buildings of the Future”. Speakers will include the president of Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security, who will address cybersecurity as a challenge for politics, business and society. The fair organises the conference in cooperation with the BHE Federal Association of Security Technology and the technical support of the Federal Office for Information Security. In Hall 8, a new Public Security Forum will enable visitors to experience digital security technologies for public spaces from the areas of sensors/IoT, cyber security and surveillance. The products and solutions will be installed in four different building scenarios (town hall, school, hospital and library) and it will be possible to test them extensively. The forum, including lectures and discussions, will target municipal decision makers and planners of public spaces. Comprehensive programme A Security Expert Forum in Hall 2 will present a continuous programme with more than 90 presentations during the period of the fair. Visitors will obtain information and solution ideas about all six subject areas covered at the fair, and the programme will begin with a keynote lecture each morning and finish with a live demonstration in the evening. On the first day of the fair (25 September), Security Essen’s Career Forum will introduce retrainees, students, trainees and graduates to companies from the security industry. Targeted and professional communication will be established between companies and job applicants to facilitate making contacts, developing networks, and filling actual vacancies. Thursday (27 September) will be observed as Fire Prevention Day, and a Drone Course will be provided each day in Hall 7. One day admission to Security Essen is €41; a four-day ticket is €105. Advance sale tickets are discounted.

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.