After getting some much needed rest from last week's ISC West 2009 in Las Vegas, I thought I would recap some of the noteworthy technologies and announcements that I wasn't able to get to because of time constraints in our live show coverage. Overall, just about all of the vendors I spoke with at the show felt that attendance was better than they expected, given the current economic climate.
Despite reports that security firms are still investing in new products and services, many acknowledged that they have been affected by the downturn. Though tough times may still lie ahead, the security industry can take solace in the fact that many people and organizations actually increase their security spending during lean times to protect what assets they do have. Indeed, if you look at most of the recent research reports posted on SIW regarding the forecasts for different technology segments, just about everyone of them, including surveillance, access controls and biometrics are expected to increase over the next three to four years.
That's about enough of my opining on the current state of the security industry, however, here's some news from a few companies I was able to catch up with at the show.
Canon
Placing an emphasis on image quality at this year's show, Canon rolled out their new VB-C500D fixed mini dome network camera. The new camera features an 82 degree horizontal field of view, Power over Ethernet and Smart Shade Control, which adjusts darker areas of an image, while maintaining the brightness of the brighter areas so the subject and background are visible. The VB-C500D is currently only available in an indoor model. The camera currently integrates with Milestone, OnSSI and Exacq Technologies VMS software.
Avocado Security
Kevin Shahbazi, CEO of Avocado Security, attended this year’s show to showcase his company’s software platform, which uses existing cameras to convert surveillance data into business intelligence. According to Shahbazi, the software can use a company’s existing security infrastructure to monitor what a business wants to quantify and then chart and distribute that information in daily reports tailored to fit the needs of various departments within an organization. This information can be saved for up to 10 years, giving a business the ability to research crucial data and compare it to information gathered over a long period of time.
Lantronix
Lantronix has added Ethernet-to-wireless bridging and SmartRoam technology to its MatchPort b/g Pro embedded wireless networking module. The company’s SmartRoam technology allows for intelligent mobile roaming, meaning that the module is continuously searching for the next access point so as not to have any disruptions in the wireless connection. The company also displayed its ManageLinx virtual network device at ISC West. The solution allows users to securely access and manage firewall-protected equipment from just about anywhere.
Sielox
Access control solutions developer Sielox unveiled several new solutions at ISC West including the newest versions of its Pinnacle, Pinnacle Web and Pinnacle Argos access control software solutions. In addition, the company also debuted its new AC-1700 access controller, which can control up to 16 terminal controllers and features a removable SD card for easy reference and programming. Another new product Sielox brought to the show was its UPS power supply, which can hold up to four 12 amp batteries and control eight doors and eight readers.
Black & Decker
A relatively new player in the access control market, Black & Decker attended this year’s show to debut its new line of electronic locks that will be marketed under the brands Baldwin, Kwikset and Weiser. According to Senior Product Manager Jason Williams, the Baldwin and Weiser line are geared more towards high-end markets, while the Kwikset product offerings will be more for lower-end applications. The company’s door locks can currently integrate with GE and HAI security products and are expected to make their formal debut this summer.
