SD&I: Technologies of note at ISC West 2008

April 3, 2008
Security Dealer & Integrator's editor highlights noteworthy technologies at ISC West

If the first day was any indication, this ISC West 2008 in Las Vegas was the place for some of the coolest 'stuff' in the industry.

Not all of it was sexy and striking, some just plain practical. One product that stood out was Amseco's Energy Efficient Transformers. And yes, a transformer can be innovative. Amseco, a Potter Signal brand, introduced the XF-EE Series of energy efficient transformers that prove security systems, or more accurately power supplies, can be "green." The Energy Efficient Transformers meet California's recently passed Appliance Efficiency Regulation which requires all single-voltage external AC to DC or AC to AC power supplies to meet specific energy efficiency requirements. Scott Holman, Potter's security product manager, St. Louis, said he expects similar regulations to spread across the U.S.

GE Security was on hand to unveil enhancements to Simon XT, including powerful new Web-enabled capabilities through interactive services provider Alarm.com. With the upgrades and enhancements and new partnership with Alarm.com, the Simon XT offers two-way voice over GSM wireless communication. Simon XT uses patented "Crash and Smash" technology which can safeguard system communications even if the system is tampered with or dismantled.

"Alarm.com's voice-enabled all digital encrypted GSM technology allows a live two-way voice connection between the security system and the central station in the event of an alarm," said Alison Slavin, vice president Product Management, Alarm.com, McLean, Va. "Real-time text messages and e-mails alert customers about any type of system event, not just an alarm. No phone line or Internet connection is needed at the customer property," she added.

Finally, NetBotz is teaming with uninterruptible power supply stalwart American Power Conversion (APC), a Schneider Electric Co. to offer new security and environmental monitoring solutions for the central station or data center. Wall-mount and rack-mount appliances protect network closets from environmental threats by monitoring for temperature, humidity, dust and other physical and environmental threats. NetBotz units, in different models to support from four to 78 external sensors, with video surveillance for visual verification, keep customers aware of air conditioning failures, fires, leaking pipes, smoke, condensation and other hazards.

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