Trade Show/Exhibition

Axis Communications is returning for the 21st edition of Intersec from 20 – 22 January 2019. Axis will showcase the many dimensions of products, solutions and services across Retail, Critical Infrastructure and Smart Cities. Future of security Philippe Kubbinga, Regional Director - Middle East & Africa, Axis Communications, “At Axis, we have stayed at the forefront by constantly challenging the status quo and investing in our people and our partners. As we move into another year, we have an ever-increasing demand for smart products, solutions and services. In the last year, network audio, edge analytics, multi-sensors and privacy of data dominated in demand, conversations and actual applications – trends we deem very positive for our industry.” We have continued to add new dimensions in our offerings across Retail, Critical Infrastructure and are also seeing a positive trend in Smart Cities" “We have continued to add new dimensions in our offerings across Retail, Critical Infrastructure and are also seeing a positive trend in Smart Cities. At Intersec 2019, we look forward to an in-depth conversation with our ecosystem on the future of security and surveillance, and its constantly adapting landscape and application.” Security end points Martin Gren, Co-Founder of Axis Communications, will be a key speaker at the Intersec Future Security Summit on 20th January 2019 where he will discuss “Future of global security industry: security end points viewed as a mode of connection, not an intrusion.” At the stand, visitors can experience the Q8742 Bi-Spectral Camera, Q1645-LE Fixed Box Outdoor Camera, Q6125-LE PTZ with IR, Access Control, Analytics, Audio Products and Management Software, Technologies and the award-winning AXIS P3717-PLE. Axis Communications will be located at stand S1-J12, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. In the lead up to Intersec, Axis also shared the Key Technology Trends for 2019. Key technology trends Johan Paulsson, Chief Technology Officer, Axis Communications, “It’s become a tradition to write about the key technology trends that we think will have a significant impact on our business over the coming year and the security sector as a whole.” In thinking about 2019 we see a number of the key trends being an extension of those we identified at the start of 2018" “Future-gazing is never an easy task, and while many new technologies and broader issues will no doubt be significant in the long-term, what particularly interests us are those areas where we can see a compelling use case in the shorter-term. As such, in thinking about 2019 we see a number of the key trends being an extension of those we identified at the start of 2018.” Incremental improvements In our industry today, machine or deep-learning is mostly used for video analytics, but we expect the technology will be an important component in many different applications and products in the future. Over time it will become a common tool for software engineers and will be included in many different environments and devices. But, again, its application will be driven by the most compelling use cases, not by the technology itself. There is a temptation in the surveillance and security sector to over-promise in relation to new technologies. This has been true of AI in video analytics and, particularly, in some of the claims made around the current application of deep learning. With AI and deep learning, as with any new technology, we’re committed to making sure its implementation is robust, reliable and addresses real customer challenges. Research and progress will continue, steadily, and bring incremental improvements and benefits over the next year rather than radical change. Ever-increased capacity Cloud computing is based on the centralised computing in one or many data center, and as the proliferation of connected Cloud computing is based on the centralised computing in one or many data center, and as the proliferation of connected, Internet of Things (IoT) devices grows exponentially, so does the amount of data produced. Even as more data centers with ever-increased capacity are created, this tsunami of data could become overwhelming. This can be particularly critical in areas such as video surveillance, where despite the development of technologies designed to reduce storage and bandwidth needs, data demands are still significant. This is where the benefits of edge computing come to the fore. In simple terms, as its name suggest, edge computing puts more data processing at the ‘edge’ of the network, close to where the data is collected by the sensor and before transfer to the data center. Addressing security In our business, edge computing means processing data within the camera itself. Firstly, initial processing of data within the camera can significantly reduce the bandwidth demands of both data transfer and storage. Additionally, data can be anonymised and encrypted before it is transferred, addressing security and privacy concerns. Ultimately, cloud and edge computing will not be an ‘either…or’ decision; the two will work in balance to the greatest benefit. In years to come, 2018 might be considered as the year when broad awareness of data privacy reached its highest point, particularly that associated with personal information. To those in the public and private sectors, the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) bought a higher level of scrutiny than ever before to how organisations collect, store, share and use personal information (including that captured by video surveillance). Heightened awareness This data is used by the likes of Facebook, Amazon, Google and others to increase the value of these services through a high degree of personalisation To the broader consumer, however, it is more likely to be issues relating to Facebook’s use of data which has heightened awareness and concern regarding what happens to the personal data given away online. Ultimately, we live in a world where we have been given valuable online services in exchange for knowingly or unconsciously handing over a significant amount of personal data. Indeed, this data is used by the likes of Facebook, Amazon, Google and others to increase the value of these services through a high degree of personalisation. To many, however, it feels like a line has been crossed between useful personalisation and invasion of privacy, and the rumours that home voice assistants listen in to domestic conversations will only cause this unease to increase. Most impactful aspects Ultimately, the trust between an organisation and its customers is becoming an increasingly important and tangible asset. Concerns about a company’s approach to privacy and the use of personal data will be one of the most impactful aspects of trust in business moving forwards. Can something continue to be a ‘trend’ when it appears every year, and is a constant concern? Whatever your answer to that question, it’s impossible to think about issues that will affect every sector this year without a mention of cybersecurity. Indeed, in relation to the previous point, the fastest way to damage trust between a company and its customers (and shareholders) is through a cybersecurity breach. Good cybersecurity practice Cybersecurity will never be solved, because the cybercriminals will never stop trying to find and exploit vulnerabilities Cybersecurity will never be solved, because the cybercriminals (and increasingly nation states) will never stop trying to find and exploit vulnerabilities. These organisations are incredibly well-funded and organised and can innovate much more quickly than companies that need to adhere to industry regulations. Attacks are becoming more sophisticated, at a time when the number of connected devices mean that potential vulnerabilities and insecure network end-points are growing exponentially. One particular area of vulnerability that has been highlighted recently is in the supply chain, where either a lack of good cybersecurity practice or even deliberately malicious actions can result in cybersecurity breaches being achieved through both software and hardware. The provenance of products is ever more critical than ever, with manufacturers needing to be confident that every link in their supply chain is a secure as it should be. Environmental impact We’ve already seen how video analytics can be used as an operational planning tool by organisations looking to improve energy efficiency within offices, with the subsequent positive benefits for the environment. But new types of sensors can more accurately measure environmental impact across an organisation’s sites, effectively acting as highly sensitive artificial ‘noses’ calibrated to different forms of output, and thermal imaging can be used to pinpoint areas of energy wastage. For instance, one critical area where such sensors can heighten awareness, understanding and, increasingly allow for remedial action is in air quality. Whether inside buildings or in the external urban environment, the negative impacts on health and associated costs are becoming an ever-greater issue. Effective response Smart sensors will have a central role to play in addressing the problem globally. Such applications add value to organisations through efficiencies and cost savings (and, hopefully, health benefits), but also help them reach their own environmental and sustainability goals. But a final trend that we’re confident will be increasingly prevalent in 2019 will be combining and integrating sensors to prompt ‘smart’ actions In themselves, individual sensors such as those described above can deliver significant benefits. But a final trend that we’re confident will be increasingly prevalent in 2019 will be combining and integrating sensors to prompt ‘smart’ actions. For instance, in a smart city, a motion sensor connected to a barrier could trigger a camera which, in turn, would trigger an alert in the operations center, allowing for rapid and appropriate response. Or an environmental sensor could again trigger a video or thermal camera to quickly identify fires or spillages, again prompting alerts which will create a more rapid and effective response. Bringing new technologies When the range of sensors are considered – from thermal to motion, from atmospheric to video – the ways in which they could be combined are endless, as are the potential benefits of doing so. Technology continues to develop at a rapid and accelerating pace. While it can be easy to become distracted by the potential of every new trend or innovation, each must be considered in relation to the use cases that are going to deliver maximum positive impact and value to organisations and citizens. This remains the lens through which we view technology trends and their application, and 2019 promises to be another exciting year in bringing new technologies to market in increasingly useful ways.

Maxxess will be at Intersec 2019 showcasing its latest advances in corporate risk reduction, improved people management and smarter hospitality access solutions - including new releases in its popular eFusion and Ambit solutions. eFusion security management The latest version of the VisitorPoint module within the eFusion security management platform will be showcased, offering a host of new streamlined functions for efficient people and visitor management. Harnessing current advances in cloud computing and mobile communications, VisitorPoint is being used at premises from hotels and campuses to corporate headquarters. It allows the whole process of visitor management to be streamlined in a way never previously possible. For example, it lets guests’ phones be used as access credentials, making it a perfect alternative to room keys in the hospitality sector. Compatibility of the VisitorPoint system with ASSA Abloy Hospitality products has proved to be particularly popular with hotels. VisitorPoint System VisitorPoint is also ideal for busy hotel reception teams who need to keep across who is entering the premises VisitorPoint is also ideal for busy hotel reception teams who need to keep across who is entering the premises. With the latest version of VisitorPoint, users can easily view pre-registered visitors in advance; manage and sign-in large groups in seconds; book meeting rooms; manage visitor car parking; and automate notifications and messaging. Now organisations can go even further in streamlining their people and diary management processes, thanks to integration with Outlook and Google calendars. A new VIP feature allows automatically tailored welcomes for specified guests and/or groups; and a QR Scan App allows visitors and VIPS to be immediately verified. In addition, a new, sleek self-service kiosk will be unveiled at the show, which is ideal for positioning in hotels and high-end corporate lobbies. Open-technology systems integration Meanwhile, with its versatile, open-technology software eFusion is proving a practical alternative to costly or complex conventional PSIM solutions. It offers the advantages of a modular, building block approach and gives users the freedom to integrate, customise and adapt their security systems to meet both current needs and emerging risks. Ensuring compatibility with leading surveillance, intruder, access and fire detection systems, eFusion now supports more than 60 off-the-shelf integrations and several important additions are confirmed for the show. These latest integrations include Jaquies IP intercom hardware; the mobile phone app GuardPoint; and the Metra locker system hardware. “For users who want control and better value from their security investments, eFusion with its expanding choice of integrations is the ideal management platform”, says Lee Copland, Managing Director, Maxxess EMEA. Smart, open infrastructure The eFusion platform allows legacy systems to be transformed into a smart, open infrastructure and extends the life of equipment" “The eFusion platform allows legacy systems to be transformed into a smart, open infrastructure and extends the life of equipment. Our technology is proving particularly popular because it gives users all the advantages of advanced PSIM without the associated cost or complexity.” eFusion can be easily scaled from one site to multiple sites globally and it can connect stand-alone systems for easy upgrades such as retro-fits with existing hardware. Network monitoring for public safety Also on show, Ambit allows security controllers to communicate directly with both individuals and groups and to monitor the safety of everyone on site (or on multiple sites), for example employees, residents, visitors, or contractors. Now Ambit users will benefit from direct notification of a wide range of risks thanks to a new integration with the NC4 incident alert service. NC4 monitors risks and issues alerts in real time, covering potential threats ranging from terrorist incidents to weather events, from civil disruption to cyber-attacks. With this new integration, as N4C alerts arise they will be filtered by proximity/relevance and directly sent to Ambit users. Lone worker monitoring   Visitors to the Maxxess stand will also learn how Ambit’s latest life-saving technology comes with a choice of applications tailored to the user’s needs. For example, it can allow lone-worker monitoring; courtesy communications and remote escorting after-hours; panic alarm features; and individualised messaging during incidents. It can help security teams co-ordinate and work more effectively with emergency responders too as well as improving the efficiency of day-to-day operations.  We are well positioned to further capitalise on major infrastructure projects across the region such as hotels and leisure" With new customers and projects including Bluewater Island, TAJ Hotel & Residences JLT Dubai, TAJ Hotel & Palace on Palm Jumeirah, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Emirates Flight Catering Extension, the Jewel of the Creek and Yahsat, 2019 will be an exciting year of growth for Maxxess in the Middle East.  Maxxess expands Middle East reach  “We are well positioned to further capitalise on major infrastructure projects across the region such as hotels and leisure. The demand for increased operational efficiencies across the MENA region has seen many organisations look to automate tasks and at the same time mitigate against the potential for human error. This is evident in the demand we’re seeing for streamlined visitor management, the elimination of keys and better optimised workforces across security and facilities management functions.”, said Lee Copland, Managing Director, Maxxess EMEA. He adds, “And as real-world applications for artificial intelligence become a reality, we are continuing to collaborate with our world leading video surveillance partners to bring these advanced analytics into the eFusion platform. Meanwhile, we will continue to support our customers in complying with revised fire and safety codes and new security regulations.” 

RTI, a control and automation manufacturer for residential and commercial settings, announced its product lineup for Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2019, taking place Feb. 5-8 in Amsterdam. In Stand 1-N85, the company will be showcasing media distribution and collaboration solutions for classrooms, lecture halls, and meeting spaces, including the new VXU-SC video conferencing system. Products on display In addition, the company's Miravue VIP-1 video-over-IP system and VMS-741 multiviewer will be on display, as well as sleek new handheld and touchpanel control interfaces. The RTI Miravue VIP-1 video-over-IP transceiver acts as a transmitter and receiver in one versatile device"Last year at ISE, we introduced a line of AV products to give dealers a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for automating commercial environments," said Ed McConaghay, CEO of RTI. "In the year since, we've taken that momentum and channelled it into developing an array of powerful new solutions for collaboration, AV distribution, and monitoring. Our presence in the commercial space only continues to grow and we can't wait to show off our latest developments in Amsterdam this year." Software-based conferencing solutions Making its debut at ISE 2019, the VXU-SC video conferencing system enables simple and cost-effective collaboration, allowing multiple users to interact easily with software-based conferencing solutions such as Microsoft Skype, Cisco WebEx, and Citrix GoToMeetings. In addition to support for video content from a wide range of devices, USB sharing also enables control from any connected PC, laptop, and interactive display, and allows inexpensive webcams and microphones to be utilised. Additional commercial solutions on display will include the VMS-741 multiviewer, which features seven video inputs, 4K video output, and can be configured for viewing up to four sources simultaneously on one display. The T4x sets the standard in wireless control with advanced features, including grip sensors, Wi-Fi, dual RF, and more The RTI Miravue VIP-1 video-over-IP transceiver acts as a transmitter and receiver in one versatile device. Dramatically reducing cabling and installation time, the system enables powerful, scalable AV distribution over both wired and wireless Ethernet networking. In addition, network video streams from IP cameras may be viewed without the need for additional equipment. T4x remote control Handheld interfaces on display will include RTI's T4x flagship remote control, which is perfectly suited for any contemporary environment. Its sleek, sophisticated design offers superb ergonomics, a high-resolution 4-inch capacitive touchscreen, and fully programmable soft-touch buttons. The T4x sets the standard in wireless control with advanced features, including grip sensors, Wi-Fi, dual RF, and more. Highlighted touchpanel controllers will include the KA8 and KA11, which feature fully customisable 8-inch or 11.6-inch widescreen high-resolution LCD displays with integrated capacitive touchscreens. The sleek devices are easily wall-mounted or can be used with an accessory stand for tabletop installation. Ambient light sensors automatically adjust the screen brightness, while built-in Ethernet with PoE powers the unit. Resolving system failure issues remotely The RTiQ cloud-based solution intelligently monitors RTI control system components and other electronic systemsRTI continues to put the focus on enhancing the dealer experience with new software and training initiatives. The RTiQ cloud-based solution intelligently monitors RTI control system components and other electronic systems. Dealers are notified via email and text notifications if a failure occurs, so they can perform actions remotely to correct the situation — eliminating the need for service calls to address simple issues and reducing system downtime. Additionally, the new RTIXCEL training programs are designed to provide dealers with a variety of training options to accommodate their busy schedules — anyway, anytime, anywhere. RTIXCEL Online, the new state-of-the-art online learning management system, allows dealers to learn more effectively and at their own pace, while the schedule of on-site training events and webinars hosted by RTI dealer experience managers is also expanded worldwide.

Luxul, the innovator of IP networking solutions for AV integrators, warned the Netherlands to brace itself for a perfect storm of new networking solutions, set to leave a major impact at the Amsterdam RAI Exhibition and Convention Centre during Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2019 from Feb. 5-8. The eye of the storm is projected to be at Stand 2-C50, where Luxul company officials say products never before seen in Europe will be unleashed and shipping. The forecast includes managed Gigabit switches that bring enterprise performance to the CI industry at affordable price points; the next generation of wireless controller technology; "Good, Better, Best" dual-band wireless access points (AP), which includes a new device featuring advanced 4x4 MU-MIMO (802.11ac Wave 2) technology; and the new Easy Setup App. Lower costs and simplified installations CI integrators should brace themselves for simplified installations, lower costs, and happier customers""We are preparing the city of Amsterdam and ISE attendees for the disruption this storm will cause, which will include but is not limited to strong, reliable networks and world-class Wi-Fi with seamless roaming," said Mike Grubb, vice president of marketing at Luxul. "CI integrators, in particular, should brace themselves for simplified installations, lower costs, and happier customers. Luxul staff will be on hand to provide assistance; however, with everything but the internet itself expected to touch down and dramatically increased traffic at Stand 2-C50 in the forecast, we are asking visitors to remain calm, have a look around, and chat with Luxul experts in the stand." AMS-1816P and XMS-1208P switches Of particular concern for storm trackers are Luxul's 18-port/16 PoE+ L2/L3 AMS-1816P and 12-port/8 PoE+ XMS-1208P managed Gigabit switches, which include port Auto-Recovery and Power Scheduling to ensure system reliability and uptime. Auto-Recovery allows the switch to power cycle unresponsive PoE devices, and Power Scheduling allows switch PoE ports to be turned on or off on a schedule. For simple network expansion, the AMS-1816P is equipped with two Gigabit RJ-45/SFP combo ports, while the XMS-1208P features two Gigabit RJ-45 uplink ports and two SFP ports — these features allow for high-speed interconnection between SFP-compatible Luxul switches and enable integrators to connect devices via Ethernet or fibre-optic cable. XWC-2000 wireless controller The next-generation XWC-2000 wireless controller delivers twice the capacity of its predecessor with support for up to 32 APsHeavy winds are blowing in the next-generation XWC-2000 wireless controller, which delivers twice the capacity of its predecessor with support for up to 32 APs, allowing each AP to be configured for a designated wireless channel in addition to supporting individual wireless transmit power adjustment. Newly deployed APs are now automatically added for plug-and-play installation. Luxul's Roam Assist technology built into the wireless controller ensures that mobile devices are always connected to the best AP for the highest performance. Wireless AP solutions Doppler radar indicates three separate wireless AP solutions converging on Amsterdam, which are set to merge into a "Good, Better, and Best" offering. For smaller networks where budgets are a concern, Luxul's "Good" XAP-810 is a cost-effective wireless AP offering 802.11ac 2x2 dual-band technology and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1200Mbps. The "Better" XAP-1510 features 802.11ac 3x3 dual-band technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 1900Mbps throughout a facility. Luxul's Easy Setup App allows integrators to install a Luxul wireless router and up to two wireless APs from the convenience of a mobile phoneThe "Best" Apex XAP-1610 AC3100 dual-band wireless access point (AP) features advanced 4x4 MU-MIMO (802.11ac Wave 2) technology and 2.4 and 5GHz beamforming for data rates up to 3167Mbps. The AP is designed to enhance transmission and reception performance, producing higher throughput when experiencing medium to weak signals within the effective range, as well as providing a more stable connection with usable throughput. Installing wireless router via mobile Finally, a low-pressure front is pushing in Luxul's Easy Setup App, which allows integrators to install a Luxul wireless router and up to two wireless access points (APs) — at the same time — from the convenience of a mobile phone. The simple-to-use app not only speeds up installations but ensures the network infrastructure is installed with the appropriate settings and the latest firmware. The result is lower costs for integrators and their customers and a seamless wireless network that provides outstanding performance. Luxul networking solutions will also be on display at AV EMEA distributor showcase at Stand 1-Q120.

ADT Inc., global provider of monitored security and interactive home and business automation solutions in the United States and Canada, has announced the unveiling of its newly redesigned smart home security system – the ADT Command Panel & Control Platform (ADT Command) – as well as a suite of smart security and home automation products at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES). This year’s theme, “Real Protection,” will highlight the products ADT offers to ensure customer safety from any location. ADT Command ADT Command is a dynamic and innovative wireless panel with numerous smart home capabilities, including seamless set up and control with the ADT Control app, that allows customers to protect and automate their homes from anywhere at any time. “As home automation continues to evolve and become more accessible, we know our growing community of 3 million smart home customers want and expect a security solution that is fully integrated with the latest technology innovations,” said Don Young, ADT Chief Information Officer & Executive Vice President, Field Operations. “With ADT Command & Control, consumers get best-in-class monitoring service from the largest security network, combined with the most cutting-edge technology. The Control platform supports over 250 devices, ranging from carbon monoxide detectors to smart light bulbs, providing custom-fit solutions that provide customers with real protection.” ADT Monitoring and Emergency Response ADT Command customers receive ADT’s monitoring and emergency response, backed by 4,000 monitoring professionals across 10 monitoring centers ADT Command customers receive ADT’s monitoring and emergency response, backed by 4,000 monitoring professionals across 10 monitoring centers, providing 24/7 protection, 365 days a year. Key features include: Smart security: Know who is arriving home and when, with the 7-inch wireless, touchscreen Command panel that snaps a photo when the system is disarmed using its built-in camera. By creating dynamic scenes and rules, your smart home devices work in harmony to keep your family safe. For example, in case of a fire, the system can be connected to the thermostat, lights and doors, making it easier and safer for everyone to get outside. Connected and secure home: Keep your home connected 24/7 with the panel’s battery backup with dual path Broadband and LTE cellular communications. ADT Command features two-way encryption RF sensor technology to help reduce the potential for hacking. For increased control of your home, unique user codes and permission settings can grant access to users only on the days and times you specify. Geofencing and voice control technology: The app’s geofencing technology generates helpful automations and alerts to trigger events, with reminders such as arming the security system when you leave the house. With voice control technology, you can easily control your system simply with your voice. Remote arming and disarming of system: Use the Control app to carry out preset automations when you leave or arrive home, allowing you to remotely arm or disarm your system. No matter where you are, you can rest easy knowing your doors are locked, your lights are on or off and your home is secured. You can even watch live video and images from your mobile phone, tablet or smartwatch, so you can stay connected to your home no matter where your travels take you. ADT solutions on display at CES 2019 Located at Veronese 2504 at the Sands Expo Convention Center, ADT will be showcasing several additional products and services that bring users peace of mind and real protection irrespective of where they are. Highlights include: ADT Go: This all-in-one mobile safety app provides a companion with you wherever you go—whether you’re in the car or in a new city. Created in partnership with trusted locator and communication tool Life360, the app offers family check-in and location geo-fencing capabilities, local crime data, driving activity alerts, crash detection and response, roadside assistance, and 24/7 SOS emergency response from ADT’s trusted live monitoring agents. Available in Apple and Android app stores, ADT offers two service options to give you peace of mind that fits your family’s needs. ADT Video Doorbell: The weatherproof, high-definition video doorbell provides front door security, allowing users to receive alerts, photos and videos, when the doorbell is engaged. The doorbell can also reduce false motion events by using object detection, pairing it with other motion data to determine true events and provides superior video quality and crisp wide-angle views with de-warping features. Voice Control Integrations: ADT’s integrations with Amazon Alexa and Google Voice Assistant provides users a hands-free solution for dynamic scenes that deliver a personalised service. Customers can utilise voice commands to arm or disarm their systems, lock and unlock doors, and manage other smart devices like lights and thermostats—making the home not just smarter, but safer. Interactive Crime Map: ADT’s free, interactive crime maps provide up-to-date information on crime statistics, including assault vehicle theft, robbery, and more. This tool assists future homebuyers when considering a neighborhood and helps travelers choose the best places to stay when visiting a new city.

Maxxess will be at Intersec 2019 showcasing its latest advances in corporate risk reduction, improved people management and smarter hospitality access solutions - including new releases in its popular eFusion and Ambit solutions. The latest version of the VisitorPoint module within the eFusion security management platform will be showcased, offering a host of new streamlined functions for efficient people and visitor management. Harnessing current advances in cloud computing and mobile communications, VisitorPoint is being used at premises from hotels and campuses to corporate headquarters. It allows the whole process of visitor management to be streamlined in a way never previously possible. Diary management processes VisitorPoint is also ideal for busy reception teams who need to keep across who is entering their premises For example, it lets guests’ phones be used as access credentials, making it a perfect alternative to room keys in the hospitality sector. Compatibility of the VisitorPoint system with ASSA Abloy Hospitality products has proved to be particularly popular with hotels. VisitorPoint is also ideal for busy reception teams who need to keep across who is entering their premises. With the latest version of VisitorPoint, users can easily view pre-registered visitors in advance; manage and sign-in large groups in seconds; book meeting rooms; manage visitor car parking; and automate notifications and messaging. Now organisations can go even further in streamlining their people and diary management processes, thanks to integration with Outlook and Google calendars. Important additions A new VIP feature allows automatically tailored welcomes for specified guests and/or groups; and a QR Scan App allows visitors and VIPS to be immediately verified. In addition, a new, sleek self-service kiosk will be unveiled at the show, which is ideal for positioning in hotels and high-end corporate lobbies. Meanwhile, with its versatile, open-technology software eFusion is proving a practical alternative to costly or complex conventional PSIM solutions. It offers the advantages of a modular, building block approach and gives users the freedom to integrate, customise and adapt their security systems to meet both current needs and emerging risks. Ensuring compatibility with leading surveillance, intruder, access and fire detection systems, eFusion now supports more than 60 off-the-shelf integrations and several important additions are confirmed for the show. Security investments The eFusion platform allows legacy systems to be transformed into a smart, open infrastructure and extends the life of equipment" These latest integrations include IP intercom hardware from Jaquies; the mobile phone app GuardPoint; and the Metra locker system hardware. For users who want control and better value from their security investments, eFusion with its expanding choice of integrations is the ideal management platform, says Lee Copland, Managing Director, Maxxess EMEA. “The eFusion platform allows legacy systems to be transformed into a smart, open infrastructure and extends the life of equipment. Our technology is proving particularly popular because it gives users all the advantages of advanced PSIM without the associated cost or complexity.” eFusion can be easily scaled from one site to multiple sites globally and it can connect stand-alone systems for easy upgrades such as retro-fits with existing hardware. Allows security controllers Also on show, Ambit allows security controllers to communicate directly with both individuals and groups and to monitor the safety of everyone on site (or on multiple sites), for example employees, residents, visitors, or contractors. Now Ambit users will benefit from direct notification of a wide range of risks thanks to a new integration with the NC4 incident alert service. NC4 monitors risks and issues alerts in real time, covering potential threats ranging from terrorist incidents to weather events, from civil disruption to cyber-attacks. With this new integration, as N4C alerts arise they will be filtered by proximity/relevance and directly sent to Ambit users. Lone-worker monitoring Visitors to the Maxxess stand will also learn how Ambit’s latest life-saving technology comes with a choice of applications tailored to the user’s needs. For example, it can allow lone-worker monitoring; courtesy communications and remote escorting after-hours; panic alarm features; and individualised messaging during incidents. It can help security teams co-ordinate and work more effectively with emergency responders too as well as improving the efficiency of day to day operations It can help security teams co-ordinate and work more effectively with emergency responders too as well as improving the efficiency of day to day operations. With new customers and projects including Bluewater Island, TAJ Hotel & Residences JLT Dubai, TAJ Hotel & Palace on Palm Jumeirah, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, Emirates Flight Catering Extension, the Jewel of the Creek and Yahsat, 2019 will be an exciting year of growth for Maxxess in the Middle East. Better optimised workforces “We are well positioned to further capitalise on major infrastructure projects across the region such as hotels and leisure. The demand for increased operational efficiencies across the MENA region has seen many organisations look to automate tasks and at the same time mitigate against the potential for human error. This is evident in the demand we’re seeing for streamlined visitor management, the elimination of keys and better optimised workforces across security and facilities management functions.” “And as real-world applications for artificial intelligence become a reality, we are continuing to collaborate with our world leading video surveillance partners to bring these advanced analytics into the eFusion platform. Meanwhile, we will continue to support our customers in complying with revised fire and safety codes and new security regulations.”

Thousands of security professionals gathered Nov. 14-15 at the Javits Center in New York City to explore new products, solutions and technologies, network with security luminaries and obtain high-quality industry education. ISC East, sponsored by the Security Industry Association (SIA), is the Northeast’s largest security industry event; more than 7,000 security professionals attended or exhibited at this year’s conference. Following day 1 of ISC East, SIA gathered industry luminaries and experts for SIA Honors Night, an annual event featuring a cocktail reception, a gala dinner benefiting Mission 500, engaging entertainment and an awards ceremony recognising industry leaders. Sold-out event SIA Honors Night 2018 was a sold-out event held at the Current at Chelsea Piers. The awards presented at SIA Honors Night 2018 were: SIA Progress Award (presented by SIA’s Women in Security Forum) – Eddie Reynolds, president and CEO, iluminar Inc. Women in Biometrics Awards (co-founded by SIA and SecureIDNews and co-presented with sponsors FindBiometrics, IDEMIA and SIA’s Women in Security Forum) – Kelly Gallagher, senior account manager at NEC Corporation of America; Lisa MacDonald, director of the Identity Management Division in the Office of Biometric identity Management at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Colleen Manaher, executive director of U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Lora Sims, senior biometric examiner at Ideal Innovations, Inc.; and Anne Wang, director of biometric technology research and development at Gemalto Cogent SIA Insightful Practitioner Award – Guy M. Grace, Jr., chair of the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools Steering Committee and director of security and emergency planning for Littleton Public Schools in the Denver suburb of Littleton, Colorado Jay Hauhn Excellence in Partnerships Award – Larry Folsom, co-founder and president, I-View Now George R. Lippert Memorial Award – Pat Comunale, retired security industry veteran, former member of the SIA Board of Directors and former CEO and president for Tri-Ed Distribution, an Anixter company Standout keynotes SIA Honors Night also highlighted Mission 500, a charity that advocates for children and families living in extreme poverty in the United States Honors Night guests enjoyed keynote remarks from Bonnie St. John, a Paralympic ski medalist, Fortune 500 business consultant, Rhodes scholar, former White House official and best-selling author. St. John discussed her journey to become the first African-American ever to win medals in Winter Olympic competition despite having her right leg amputated at age five and shared her top lessons from mentors and her advice for cultivating resilience. SIA Honors Night also highlighted Mission 500, a charity that advocates for children and families living in extreme poverty in the United States; each year, SIA Honors Night raises funds for Mission 500. SIA presented 26 engaging education sessions through the SIA Education @ ISC East program, including two standout keynotes and four hands-on workshops. Hundreds of conference attendees participated in these sessions, with impressive speakers like Valerie Thomas, ethical hacker and executive consultant at Securicon; Pierre Bourgeix, president at ESI Convergent; Scott Swann, president and CEO of IDEMIA National Security Solutions; and Jumbi Edulbehram, regional president – Americas, Oncam. SIA sponsored Infosecurity North America’s Keynote Stage, the central hub of the event Confronting emerging threats Highlighted education sessions at this year’s conference included: Friend or Foe? Technology Disruption and the Physical Security Industry, a keynote address by Philip Halpin, senior vice president and head of global security at Brown Brothers Harriman, one of the country’s oldest and largest privately held financial firms 21st Century Best Practices: Reporting From the Front Lines on How Law Enforcement and the Security Industry Are Confronting Emerging Threats, a keynote address by James A. Gagliano, a retired FBI supervisory special agent, CNN law enforcement analyst and adjunct assistant professor at St. John’s University Cybersecurity professionals ISC East 2018 was co-located with two additional conferences – Infosecurity North America and Unmanned Security Expo Additional cutting-edge topics covered in the education sessions included the move to smart cities, convergence in the security industry and the use of artificial intelligence in video analytics. ISC East 2018 was co-located with two additional conferences – Infosecurity North America and Unmanned Security Expo. SIA sponsored Infosecurity North America’s Keynote Stage, the central hub of the event, which featured a presentation from world-famous hacker Kevin Mitnick, insights from Dave Hogue of the National Security Agency’s Cybersecurity Threat Operations Center, a discussion on the cyber skills shortage gap and ways to attract, develop and retain talented cybersecurity professionals and more. Handle sensitive data Additional events at ISC East 2018 included: A breakfast presented by ISC Security Events and SIA’s Women in Security Forum featuring a panel discussion celebrating women in security and supporting the participation and advancement of women in the industry Paid hands-on workshops providing cutting-edge information and valuable insights on the most current business trends, technologies and new developments in security Free exhibitor product training sessions sharing live, in-depth demonstrations A meeting with SIA’s Data Privacy Advisory Board, which provides information and best practices to help SIA members handle sensitive data in a safe and secure manner to protect the personally identifiable information of their employees, partners and customers from potential breaches

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are the rage in tech right now and not surprisingly, many cyber companies are beginning to automate an increasing amount of their operations. Some of this is great, particularly when it assists cybersecurity professionals to automate mundane tasks and focus more of their attention on higher level analysis. But so far, machine learning is more hype than helpful for cybersecurity, but that does not mean you can’t automate some tasks to keep your organisation safe. Effective machine learning applications At its most basic, machine learning technology is supposed to enable cybersecurity companies to predict the nature of future attacks based on past behaviour, similar to how Netflix displays what you want to watch based on what you’ve previously viewed. According to Jack Gold, president and principal analyst at J. Gold Associates, this innovation can assist cyber companies to transition away from a “signature-based” system to detect malware. Instead, he sees more companies adopting a machine learning approach that aims to analyse past incidents in a broader manner and aggregate information from a multitude of sources. Machine learning technology is supposed to enable cybersecurity companies to predict the nature of future attacks Specifically, some machine learning applications for cybersecurity are effective at doing the following: detecting malicious activity, helping security officers determine what tasks they need to complete in an investigation process, analysing mobile endpoints, decreasing the number of false positive threats, automating repetitive tasks like interrupting ransomware, and potentially closing some zero-day vulnerabilities. A number of tech giants have invested in these capabilities recently, including Google, which is employing machine learning to help protect Android mobile endpoints. Amazon also bought a startup called harvest.AI to help it aggregate and better understand data located on the S3 cloud storage service. Limitations of AI for cybersecurity That said, the signal-to-noise ratio for threat intelligence-type automation events isn't effective for most organisations at the moment. The reality is automating threat intelligence - or in other words, identifying adversaries automatically - is difficult to execute within an organisation because every company’s threats, vulnerabilities, and risks are unique. Ultimately, machine learning can help cybersecurity outfits, but it can’t replace many important functions. In an article for Forbes, Alexander Polyakov explains well why machine learning’s applications for cybersecurity are limited. He writes, “There will always be a person who tries to find issues in our systems and bypass them. Therefore, if we detect 90% [of] attacks today, new methods will be invented tomorrow.” Cybersecurity outfits can pair their human intellect with machine technology to catch hackers before they do too much damage Put in another way, there is a reason that machine learning is very good at predicting events like the weather. As McAfee CTO Steve Grobman described at McAfee MPOWER, their annual security conference, the weather abides by laws of physics. So even with phenomena such as global warming, the weather will largely act in the future based on how it has been in the past. Pairing human intellect and machine technology Cyber attacks, meanwhile, are the complete opposite. Hackers become smarter, and are always one step ahead of cybersecurity officers, inherently and frequently shifting their strategies so that CISOs will not detect them. For all the incidents machine learning technology can identify, which is helpful, there will always be sophisticated attacks that no machine learning algorithm will be able to find. It is also worth stating a simple fact: Humans hack. While they may use fancy technology to deploy these attacks, it is a human-led effort. Therefore, at the highest level, cybersecurity officers will be the only force able to stop hackers from penetrating critical networks. Machines don’t fully understand us. Only humans can still (and probably always) comprehend hackers’ larger strategy. Instead, cybersecurity outfits can pair their human intellect with machine technology to sort through data faster and catch hackers before they do too much damage. No cybersecurity company should be led by robots -- and that’s a good thing.

The physical security industry is rapidly changing, ever evolving, and one that is growing faster than most other sectors of the greater global market. The latest research shows that the forecasted growth rates will be a compound average growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% and a total market revenue opportunity of $41.27B through 2022. These economic indicators make the industry a very attractive investment for entrepreneurs and for investment from large corporations from other industries. At ISC West 2018, this was extremely evident as there was a palpable buzz from technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud-based video management systems and cloud-based access control systems. New market entrants such as Amazon, and a seemingly increased interest and investment from the likes of Intel, IBM, and even Microsoft were present and contributed strongly to the buzz of the industry’s largest tradeshow.The global managed security services market is projected to reach nearly $40.97 Bn, with a CAGR of 16.6% over the next five years Need for education and enhanced security With the increased profile of the industry, one can clearly see that the physical security industry is expanding globally to new consumers; bringing with it an increased need to further secure products and services with comprehensive physical and cybersecurity protocols and the need for education. This convergence of physical security and cybersecurity will create new industry leaders that will emerge to lead a new segment of the combined market through strong investment and leadership. According to a report published from Allied Market Research (AMR), the global managed security services market is projected to reach nearly $40.97B, with a CAGR of 16.6% over the next five years. Correlating these two market data points, the forecast for the physical security market is expected to have nearly 18% of the total market opportunity comprised of cloud services at nearly $7B. Sharing security service best practices In September 2017 at the Cloud+ Conference in Austin, Texas, the leaders of the Access Control as a service (ACaaS) and Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) markets, converged to share industry trends, observations of customer adoption, best practices in implementation and service, financial models, and several in-depth discussions on securing physical security of cloud implementations through cybersecurity. The physical security market will have nearly 18% of the total market opportunity comprised of cloud services These cybersecurity discussions absolutely dominated every discussion with the clear message that as a cloud service provider, manufacturers and integrators must continue to create robust and scalable cybersecurity offerings to protect customer data and facilities. Interestingly, an analysis of all of the past cyber breaches was presented by keynote speaker Dean Drako of Eagle Eye Networks, who, through a powerful visual diagram, noted that all existing breaches in the physical security industry were entirely on manufacturer provided hardware solutions; VMS physically installed on customer premises, and camera specific vulnerabilities across multiple providers.Network personnel, cybersecurity personnel, firewall experts, and cloud-specific software development staff all need to be added to core physical security engineering expertise Cloud versus non-cloud services The insight that one was able to glean from this information and, that of a greater analysis of cybersecurity hacks across all industries, was that manufacturers and providers of cloud services were more secure and reliable by orders of magnitude than non-cloud solutions. The reason for these phenomena also became glaringly evident; the security protocols of a cloud service provider is central to the business’s value proposition and as such should be addressed across all levels of manufacturing, implementation, and customer utilisation. Conversely, non-cloud deployed products rely on field implemented cyber strategies from integrators and end users which often expose lack of skills, education and budget to fully secure these physical security products. Ensuring successful deployment As a SaaS service provider, the technical personnel makeup results in an expansion of staff and expertise. Network personnel, cybersecurity personnel, firewall experts, and cloud-specific software development staff all need to be added to core physical security engineering expertise to ensure that the product developed can be successfully implemented and deployed.Implementing a process to protect millions of customer’s data records and facilities begins with mapping out a strategy to secure software and hardware. These new jobs in the physical security industry will astronomically expand as the market continues to grow $6 Bn in a little over 4 years providing new opportunities to existing and new personnel to enter the industry. As a leader in access control hardware and an ACaaS provider, ISONAS has taken it upon themselves to implement a process to ensure that their customers can easily implement their products and gain great peace of mind in regard to the security of the solutions. Data security strategies Implementing a process to protect millions of customer’s data records and facilities begins with mapping out a strategy to secure software and hardware. This means employing high-level, seasoned cloud deployment experts to create a strategy in our AWS infrastructure and all ancillary supporting technologies to minimise attack surfaces, create complex, proprietary associations in a multi-layered and multi-tiered connection throughout the application and lastly ensuring that all communication to and from customers’ devices are encrypted and secured. Implementing a process to protect customer’s data records and facilities begins with mapping out a strategy to secure software and hardware Once implemented ISONAS took it upon themselves to validate the infrastructure and the customers experience by subjecting the environments to 3rd party penetration tests. Addressing cyber threats These tests, taken up quarterly, ensure a customer that the latest in cyber threats are being addressed and that the manufacturer is providing the latest solutions available in the market.Integration implementation personnel should gain greater knowledge in networks and cybersecurity best practices for their solutions An added benefit is that customers gain the scalable benefits of enterprise corporate cybersecurity protocols at a fraction of the cost of implementing these on their individual premises. As an industry, however, it is not simply the responsibility of the cloud service provider to ensure that the customers data in video and access control are being protected. It is also incumbent on the integrator to ensure that the installation and implementation of the products and solutions are deployed in an educated and skill-based manner. Knowledge of networks and cybersecurity best practices The products and services utilised must be easy to implement, be clear in their requirements of the end user networks, and simplistic to apply. Nearly all manufacturers of these products are working diligently to ensure that the integrator has all of the tools at their fingertips to ensure a successful implementation. However, it will remain important that the integration implementation personnel gain a greater knowledge in networks and cybersecurity best practices for their solutions.The products and services utilised must be easy to implement, be clear in their requirements of the end user networks, and simplistic to apply In most cases, this will mean additional jobs for new higher-level personnel, access to additional services to provide to end users, and an elevation of networking and security expertise within their business. Expanding the reach of physical security These new-found skills and expertise will likely bleed into new markets and expand the reach of the traditional physical security market. It truly is an exciting time to be a part of a rapidly expanding market in the physical security space and to watch the industry react to the growing need for cybersecurity within products and services. In the next four years, there will be new innovations, new investments, and new winners and losers in products and services. It seems clear that those integrators and manufacturers who have begun to create the strategies and products for tomorrow will be well ahead of those who are not actively addressing the need for SaaS products, yet the window to opportunity remains wide open.

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.”

There is a new event on the calendar for the security industry in 2019: The Security Event 2019, 9-11 April, at NEC, Birmingham. For additional details and a preview of the new trade show and conference, we spoke with Tristan Norman, Founding Partner and Event Director, The Security Event. Q: It seems recently that some trade shows have been on the decline in terms of exhibit size and attendance. Why does the physical security industry need another trade show? Norman: I think there are numerous factors that play into the decline of trade shows in general and not something that is limited to the security industry. Those events that are suffering are no longer serving their target market or have failed to adapt to the changes in the industry they serve. However, what we are seeing now is the rise of focused, more “evolved” trade events which fulfil a gap in the industry event calendar and provide something new and fresh to a disillusioned audience. Q: What will be unique about The Security Event, and what role will it serve in bringing together buyers and sellers in the market? Where (geographically) will attendees come from? What we are seeing is a rise of trade events which provide something fresh to a disillusioned audience Norman: The driving ethos behind The Security Event is that we are “designed by the industry, for the industry.” We were able to start with a blank canvas and take onboard all the feedback from stakeholders throughout the security buying chain and create an event that is sustainable and fit for purpose. We see the role of the event as a very important one – to truly reconnect the currently fragmented UK commercial security industry, back at the NEC in Birmingham. We had originally anticipated that this would be an almost-exclusively UK event in year one. However, we have seen significant interest from potential visitors from across the wider EMEA region who are keen to do business in the UK. We formed a strategic alliance with Security Essen to help facilitate and strengthen our reach in these regions through additional marketing and PR activities. Consequently, early registrations indicate that it will be approximately an 80% UK and 20% international split. Q: What conference programming is being planned to augment the trade show event? Norman: Content will be delivered across three focused theatres, serving the needs of our audience throughout the buying chain. Emphasis will be placed on the latest technology innovations impacting the industry, practical advice on the most pressing issues facing security technicians, and important industry updates and insights. All sessions are focused on delivering tangible benefits to ensure professionals are equipped to stay relevant and to grow their business and we’re excited to be working with key industry bodies, innovators and experts to deliver the programme. We look forward to announcing those in coming weeks. Exhibitors want to re-engage with the thousands of industry colleagues who no longer attend other events on offer Q: Comparisons to IFSEC are inevitable. How will The Security Event be different than the IFSEC Security and Fire shows? What are the advantages of locating at Birmingham NEC? Norman: Both The Security Event and The Fire Safety Event, based at the NEC are completely different to any other trade show in the UK. We pride ourselves in creating a business platform that puts the exhibitors’ needs first, by limiting the size of stands and total number of exhibitors as well as creating a comprehensive CPD accredited educational programme for the visitors. Q: Which big industry players are supporting the launch of The Security Event, and what feedback are you hearing in terms of why they signed up at the show's inception? If a global manufacturer has a footprint in both the US and Europe, any tradeshow will be managed locally Norman: Our founding partners are Assa Abloy, Avigilon, Anixter, Comelit, Dahua, Honeywell, TDSi, Texecom, Tyco and Videcon. The full list of exhibitors and supporting partners can be found on our website. The reasons why they have signed up are very simple. They all see the exact same gap in the industry event landscape as we do. We believe there is a need for a 3-day channel focused commercial security exhibition based at The NEC in Birmingham. Our exhibitors want to re-engage with the thousands of industry colleagues who no longer attend the other events on offer. Q: Your 2019 show will be the same week as ISC West in Las Vegas. Do you think the competitive calendar will be a factor? Norman: In terms of our both our audience and our exhibiting base there is very little overlap with ISC West. Generally, if a global manufacturer has a footprint in both the US and Europe, any tradeshow will be managed locally so we haven’t observed any issues so far. We do acknowledge that having two shows at the same time globally isn’t ideal and we have moved our dates in 2020 to the 28-30 April to mitigate this going forward. The Security Event 2020 will not clash with Las Vegas' ISC West 2020 as it will in 2019, says Norman Q: How will you measure success in the first year of the show? What measurements (show size, number of attendees, exhibitor feedback, etc.) will constitute a "successful" first year for the show?Security Event will continue to evolve year after year, but will intent to stay true to the event's original concept Norman: Great question – the most important barometer of success for me and the team next April is the general industry reaction, after all, this show was created for them. Furthermore, it is vital to us that our exhibitors feel they have achieved their objectives for the show, whether it be quality, quantity of leads or raising awareness of a new product launch. We’ll also be keen to understand how satisfied visitors are with the event, including their views of the content, access to new products/services, effectiveness of the out of hours networking, etc. We are anticipating 6,000 visitors over the 3 days and I believe if we achieve this goal, we will have a strong rebooking on site, laying a great foundation for our 2020 event. Q: How would you expect/hope the show would continue to evolve in coming years? Norman: I hope over the next few years The Security Event cements itself as the industry’s favourite trade show and that exhibitors and visitors alike look forward to every year for both the business opportunities at the event and the networking outside of it. The Security Event will continue to evolve year after year, but I am determined that we stay true to our original concept and the principles on which the show was founded. After all, it is this formula that has proved to be so popular to date.

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.

Siklu Inc., a global provider of millimeter-wave solutions, announced that it has been selected by the City of Cambridge, England, to provide wireless connectivity for the city’s CCTV surveillance system in its town centre. The Siklu EtherHaul radios deployed in Cambridge City Centre replace the 5.8 GHz wireless technology previously used by the city for its CCTV network. Wireless mmWave technology Cambridge City Centre is a commercial and historic district that is adjacent to Cambridge University, making it a high traffic area for traditional 5 GHz wireless networks that are used by businesses, university departments and residents. Siklu radios bypass the congested 5.8 GHz spectrum wireless frequency by using the millimeter wave spectrum to transmit information across Cambridge’s CCTV networks, providing an interference-free and secured communication infrastructure for the city. “Siklu’s millimeter wave technology eliminated the camera latency issues that the previous wireless infrastructure presented,” said Ron Johnson, the owner of Videcom Security, which installed the Siklu radios for the city. “The CCTV network in the city centre is now so robust that we have been able to install additional cameras in the area for more comprehensive security coverage without sacrificing fibre-like network speed, reliability and stability.” Secure network communication The public CCTV system shared by Cambridge and several other cities in the district monitors 254 cameras total, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year to monitor public events, thwart crime, manage traffic and provide residents and businesses with a safe place to live and work. Unlike legacy wireless networks whose wide beams can be vulnerable to interception, the Siklu radios deployed in Cambridge’s CCTV system use ultra-narrow beams in the 60GHz millimeter wave spectrum to transmit information across the network securely, making the radios inherently secure from interceptions and hacking. As a result, sensitive information can be transmitted across the network securely. “As technology advances and physical security requires more and more security and reliable network bandwidth, Siklu can offer cities like Cambridge the infrastructure needed to keep city centres and other areas safe,” said Eyal Assa, Siklu’s CEO. The Siklu EtherHaul mmWave product line will be showcased at IFSEC as part of Milestone Systems’ stand #E750, where Siklu will also conduct a live demonstration.

More than one hundred years after the first race, ACO (Automobile Club de l’Ouest, or roughly translated, the Automobile Club of the West), creator and organiser of the famous 24 hours of Le Mans, has selected the leading integrator of a secure and traceable access control solution, LOCKEN for its fast and reliable security system. 24 hours of Le Mans Behind the tireless car tracks, there is a set of intricate and complex facilities. In close proximity to the entrance, which welcomes more than quarter of a million spectators, there is a Museum, about 40 restaurants, 20 shops, a medical centre, security stations all along the circuit, paddocks, where more than 10,000 competition tyres are stored, and of course the stands for each of the 60 competitors. This accounts for hundreds of different access points, requiring a variety of permissions, which must be closely controlled and monitored by ACO. Access rights are extensive for ACO employees, and some of the circuit’s customers, such as Porsche, which operates a modern building on the track side, while competitors and special guests have limited rights. The Porsche Experience Centre allows fans to try out its cars, all year round, on an allocated part of the circuit. With approximately 800,000 visitors hosted on the site each year, ACO has to account for 300,000 accesses, 53,000 of which must be managed during the competition, or the equivalent of 1,800 accesses controlled per day in June. LOCKEN’s Cyberlock solution The specific requirements for access to its enclosure led ACO to focus on the management of access rights, to ensure perfect traceability for all stakeholders. The scope and diversity of facilities, which total several hundreds of crossing points, requires a secure, yet flexible solution. The system already handles 544 points on the site, with 407 different keys to enable access LOCKEN’s Cyberlock solution is based on unique key-centric technology, which provides the highest possible levels of security and efficiency, with the power delivered by a re-chargeable digital smart key and innovative software (including traceable data). Key-centric access management is built with the user in mind, it is based around three elements, a smart key, digital cylinders, and a unique software suite, providing robust access control. A trial phase, over several years, has allowed ACO to confirm the reliability and ease of use of the technologies, and LOCKEN to illustrate its enhanced capabilities. The system already handles 544 points on the site, with 407 different keys to enable access. Enhanced access control solutions Toze Coelho, who is in charge of access within the operational management at ACO, comments: "In 2016, we equipped the sports module, which is at the heart of the race, dedicated to the management of safety - monitoring by cameras/monitors - where instructions are given to the commissioners positioned along the track. This space is highly sensitive, equipped with multiple networks, and is prohibited to the public.” “Our aim is to extend this process to provide full access control, and we are particularly keen to equip the Museum of the 24 hours of Le Mans with the LOCKEN solution." By contributing to the security of the 24 hours of Le Mans circuit, LOCKEN has positioned itself as a leading player in providing enhanced access control solutions to international venues and events.

Technical furniture manufacturer Thinking Space Systems have improved the working environment of CCTV operators at Blackburn with Darwen Council, with custom designed control room furniture recently installed within their new CCTV hub. Thinking Space were awarded the contract to provide control room furniture for the brand-new CCTV hub at Blackburn with Darwen Council. Accommodating four operators and two supervisors, the cool blues and greys for the interior for the room were matched by Thinking Space with their ergonomic furniture, to create a calm and peaceful environment for this 24/7 monitoring station. Of particular interest in this project was the 11 metre spanning Evolution media wall manufactured and installed by Thinking Space. Perfect alignment was key in ensuring the correct sight lines for operators and an aesthetically pleasing finish for the 33 large flat screens, mounted in a configuration of three rows of eleven. Thinking Space used laser positioning technology to achieve an accurate solution. Blackburn with Darwen Council CCTV hub The hub was officially opened in March 2017 with Thinking Space invited to the proceedings. Based in King George’s Hall, Blackburn, the new control room monitors over 240 cameras across East Lancashire in a bid to cut crime and make cost savings. Opening the new facility, which had been in operation since the previous month, Assistant Chief Constable Mark Bates and Council leader Mohammed Khan from Blackburn with Darwin Council led the proceedings, hailing the complete project as a resounding success. Peter Wareing, CCTV Services Manager for Blackburn with Darwen Council explained why communications between all parties ensured its success. “Thinking Space worked closely with both myself and our CCTV installers from day one, providing me with 2D and 3D images of the finished product, allowing me to better convince Partners of the finished article. As the project progressed, Thinking Space were in regular contact with me to ensure that I was receiving exactly what I needed” explained Peter. “The build and install went smoothly, something a project manager looks forward to! The finished article really looks the part and provided that wow factor, with sight lines all taken account of and Operators able to provide an excellent service in comfort.” See their furniture demonstrations at Stand H1125, IFSEC International from 20-22nd June.

Navi Mumbai officials have the benefit of operating in a modern environment, maximising Qognify’s Safe City solution Qognify, the provider of big data solutions for physical security and operations, announces the successful implementation of its market-leading Safe City solution in Navi Mumbai, a planned township that was established to handle the population overflow from the overcrowded and ever-growing city of Mumbai. Together with CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation, the agency established for managing the new city) and system integrator WIPRO, Qognify has designed an integrated and holistic solution that helps Navi police to maintain law, order and safety.   As a planned township, Navi Mumbai officials have the benefit of operating in a modern environment, allowing to maximise Qognify’s Safe City solution. At the core of the solution are Qognify Situator, an advanced Situation Management platform, and Qognify’s Video Management Solution, which controls the hundreds of surveillance cameras throughout the city. Safe City solution functions With the solution’s implementation, the city has gained the ability to improve traffic management, deter criminal activity, effectively manage response to events, and resolve investigations efficiently: A central command center is using the platform to monitor entry and exit points of the city, toll points, traffic junctions, accident prone road sections, subway and railway stations, schools, key residential areas, open markets, and key utility infrastructure areas such as electrical substations and the main water supply lines. Special “Emergency Communication Boxes” act as “panic buttons” and allow people to generate alerts and communicate directly to the control room in case of emergency. Qognify’s video management solution provides high quality video feeds. Smart integration with Agent Vi’s video analytics solutions enables immediate detection and extraction of security and safety incidents from surveillance cameras throughout the city. This integration enables the triggering of real-time, automatic alerts of incidents in Qognify Situator, that in turn, generates the appropriate operating procedure and response plan for the operators to act upon. "The Navi Mumbai security program goes far beyond a CCTV system" Situator provides a unified, operational view of the city by integrating all the components of the solution, while providing advanced collaboration capabilities for field personnel who are able to send real time images as well as videos to the control room with the type of the incident at hand and the GIS coordinates of the field respondent. Navi Mumbai security program “The Navi Mumbai security program goes far beyond a CCTV system,” said Mr. Soma Vijayakumar, CIDCO. “It is a smart solution that integrates video, emergency response, traffic control, license plate identification and more. Qognify is the core important element of this platform, providing a solution which is among the most modern and advanced available anywhere.”  “Navi Mumbai has embarked on a remarkable program which will enhance the safety and security of its citizen, visitors and assets,” said Moti Shabtai, Qognify’s President. “We’re proud to be a part of this multi-solution, multi-agency project that fulfils the vision of the city authorities to provide a security and safety to its constituents.” Qognify will be featuring its security and operations solutions in booth 9101 at ISC West, April 5-7 in Las Vegas.

Hikvision will showcase its cutting edge video surveillance solutions at ISC West 2016 in Las Vegas, booth 14059 Hikvision USA, the North American leader in innovative, award-winning video surveillance products, has partnered with the Sunset Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles to provide a security solution for round-the-clock surveillance. Located on the bustling Sunset Strip, the hotel had a great need for versatile, user-friendly cameras and recorders that allowed their staff to keep an eye on the premises at all times. A variety of Hikvision models now protect the hotel guests and serve as powerful tools to keep hotel operations running smoothly. 24-hour video surveillance The hotel had outgrown their legacy analogue system and was hoping to upgrade to cameras that provided broad coverage and high-quality images in a variety of interior and exterior environments. It was also important that the interface for the security system was easy for employees to learn. “We wanted something that we could use from an operational standpoint and from a safety standpoint,” explained Brenda Elias, Operations Manager for the Sunset Plaza. Ms. Elias turned to Constantin Paul Bunea, the founder and CEO of Darkcad Tec, who had been serving as systems integrator for the hotel for ten years. After considering the options available on the market, he felt confident that Hikvision was the brand that would meet their needs. “I selected Hikvision cameras because the quality is very high, third party integration is easy, and the company provides excellent technical support.” Mr. Bunea stated. Versatility and scalability of Hikvision products Darkcad Tec installed over twenty Hikvision IP cameras throughout the hotel, each well suited for a specific function. The DS-2CD2332-I turret, with Hikvision’s patented EXIR infrared technology, is being used in the parking garage, boasting image quality clear enough to make out license plates. A 3 MP fisheye camera, the DS-2CD6332FWD-I, allows for a 360° view of the main entrance. Cameras such as the DS-2CD2132F-I dome are being used at other hotel entrances, where HD real-time video is essential. This surveillance system is but one example of Hikvision products providing benefit to hotels all across North America. “The versatility and scalability of Hikvision products make them well-suited for a wide range of vertical markets,” stated Jeffrey He, President of Hikvision USA and Hikvision Canada. “We are pleased to serve our customers in the hospitality industry as they seek to provide safe and enjoyable experiences for their guests.” Hikvision at ISC West 2016 To learn more about Hikvision’s cutting edge video surveillance solutions, see them in person at ISC West in Las Vegas, booth 14059, April 6-8.

SpotterRF CSR monitors two infamous avalanche gullies along Swiss Alps road leading to renowned village SpotterRF, the leading manufacturer of compact surveillance radar (CSR), recently announced completion of the world’s first Spotter radar protected ski resort road system by GEOPRAEVENT in Zermatt, Switzerland. The SpotterRF CSR monitors two infamous avalanche gullies along the Swiss Alps road leading to the renowned village. The unique 24/7 two-tier perimeter line system triggers automatic road closure at the mouth of the canyon when it detects a snow avalanche threatening motorists on the only road leading to Zermatt. Lorenz Meier, CEO for GEOPRAEVENT states, “We chose SpotterRF because of the large radar coverage, small size, low-power and the possibility to implement its own algorithms on the raw data. They're a great team to work with. Our customer has repeatedly stated that he is thrilled by the system.” Large radar coverage With a range of 2000 metres and a horizontal opening angle of 90°, the radar surveys an area of more than two square kilometres. When triggered, the system reacts within seconds, immediately closing the road by means of traffic lights and barriers. Local authorities receive prioritised notification. Live cameras installed along the road allow them to check on the situation immediately — even at night, as all cameras are equipped with infrared floodlights. If the avalanche has not reached the road, authorities can reopen it from their computers or smart phones within minutes. SpotterRF compact surveillance radar “Global demand for SpotterRF compact surveillance radar is extending our reach into new applications and industries,” states Logan Harris, SpotterRF CEO. “Our Swiss partner, GEOPRAEVENT did a marvellous job designing and adding their own proprietary algorithms to our Spotter radar to create a system that responds in seconds to protect motorists traveling these curvy mountain roads.” SpotterRF at ISC West SpotterRF delivers its award-winning compact surveillance radar (CSR) systems through more than 60 strategic integrators to a global marketplace in 24 countries on six continents. This award-winning radar will be demonstrated at the upcoming Security Industry Association (SIA) ISC West tradeshow in Las Vegas, Nevada April 6-8 (booth# 14135).