The security week that was: 06/04/10

The wireless alarm system push

Wireless home security systems is about to get a big push in the way that NutriSystem advanced the diet food market in the United States. Former NutriSystem CEO Michael Hagan is taking over the C-suite at LifeShield Security (formerly InGrid Home Security) and with new investments of $10 million, he wants to heavily market the company's wireless home security alarm systems.

In terms of the wireless technology, it's not that different from what we've already seen in the professional alarm technology market, but it's the prospect of self-installation and the option of self-monitored systems which seem to be LifeShield's largest differentiators from traditional alarm services. On its website, LifeShield touts its "professional whole-house protection in minutes." The company advertises that "with 'plug and play' wireless technology, installation is quick, simple and foolproof — no special tools, salesperson or installation technician." Professional monitoring will come from Pittsburgh's Guardian Protection Services (which installs and monitors traditional alarm systems) and plans for professional monitoring start at $29.99 a month. However, LifeShield customers can also do their own monitoring using the web, cell phones, e-mail and text messages for $19.99 a month.

Hagan is planning on direct-to-consumer marketing in the way he touted NutriSystem's products. A basic kit sells for $199.99 and includes three sensors for doors and/or windows. Fire detection units can be added to a LifeShield system, as can simple video surveillance cameras. More robust kits come with "grid extenders" that allow for more sensors to be used on larger homes. Customers will be able to purchase systems over the phone or the web, and if the marketing style that NutriSystem used was any indication, expect lots of celebrity spokespersons!

IP video market gets uptick in Europe
Researchers expect annual sales to rise by $200 million

Researchers from Frost & Sullivan noted this week that IP video surveillance is seeing something of a resurgence in Europe. The research firm said that while analog video still accounts for the majority of camera and surveillance product sales in Europe, the IP video market is expected to rise from $765 million in 2009 to $959 million by 2015. Frost & Sullivan attributed the increase in IP video to the technology's allowance for remote monitoring and integration capabilities, as well as to falling prices.

Surveying the future of the security integration industry

SD&I survey looks to examine tomorrow’s business opportunities for dealers and integrators

Security Dealer & Integrator magazine is helping develop a picture of what the security integration industry will look like in the future, and is asking all industry pros to take a quick, one-page survey to help define what the future looks like. The survey looks at technologies like remote access and streaming video and whether these offerings will become managed services that dealers and integrators can capitalize upon. Take the survey today. Results will be released in two weeks.

In other news
D.C. building security, Einstein network security, APX CEO recognized

A new report examines problems with security officers and the Protective Services Police Department for D.C.-owned buildings. ... The Pentagon is proposing that its high-tech information security systems be expanded to allow for usage by private businesses. It would mean corporate America could take advantage of the "Einstein" computer/network defense technologies developed for government networks. ... Fluidmesh Networks announced that its channel partner program has reached the 100-partner milestone and is growing steadily. ... NICE Systems announced a major project win; the company's situation management technology ("Situator" was part of the technology acquired when NICE purchased Orsus) will be used in India's Parliament House. ... APX Alarm CEO Todd Pedersen was named the winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2010 award in the services category for the Utah Region.