Serving Installers, Dealers and Integrators Across Canada
Consortium developing new UWB ecosystem
UWB technology can fine-tune device range down to mere centimeters p. 6
What do you mean by “open,” anyway?
Open systems are everywhere, but you should really know what you’re getting into p. 28
The last cyber frontier: your home
Home automation technology can be a tempting target for hackers if it’s not properly secured p. 32
Convergint’s Mark Sheahan (left) and Alex Lee, City of Calgary
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What is open and why is it important?
Open systems is a phrase you hear often in security, but the true meaning may depend on who you ask
By Kim Rahfaldt
16 Integrator of the Year 2019: Convergint
Convergint Technologies is acknowledged for the customer service and technical expertise it provided to client the City of Calgary By Neil Sutton
• FiRa Consortium could add a new dimension to access control
• TOA Canada partners with Access Direct Sales
• Lanvac: Video verification is “the future of monitoring”
• IHS Markit report: Robust growth for surveillance market in 2019
Convenience and comfort may be on the rise, but home owners could be exposed to hacks if the proper precautions are not
in thought By Colin
Bodbyl
CANASA
Exciting opportunities ahead in the fall By Patrick Straw
Qolsys’ next generation IQ REMOTE secondary touchscreen for their IQ Panel has an all new form factor with improved Wi-Fi connectivity supporting 5GHz network connections.
EDITOR’S LETTER
AAfter AI
By Neil Sutton
bout 18 months ago, I wrote a column in this space about the over-abundance of AI-based messaging and marketing in the security industry.
“Artificial intelligence” was everywhere — a handy, memorable term to describe software that can recognize patterns in surveillance and trigger alerts. Only it’s not really AI, in the truest sense of the term, and we’re beginning to see it disappear or at least tempered by more realistic and rational descriptions.
I recently returned from GSX 2019, the annual conference held by ASIS International, this year in Chicago. As I walked the show floor and chatted with vendors, I noted that AI has become less of a marketing buzzword and more of a conversation starter. You might see booth signs peppered with the term, but usually in conjunction with more realistic (if a bit more cryptic) language like machine learning or deep learning.
Over the past few years, I have been reluctant to participate in the AI hype, preferring to feature content in SP&T that steers more towards the science than the marketing. A year ago, we published an article written by Paul Kong of Hanwha Techwin, explaining the current limits of AI and why the term needs clarification. In the last issue of SP&T, we featured a news story based on a Genetec press summit in which CEO Pierre Racz said the company was investing in Intelligent Automation (IA) — avoiding any direct association
with the nebulous AI.
This issue, our regular columnist Colin Bodbyl provides the best explanation I have read yet of what AI is and isn’t, and how it applies to the security industry, as well as other fields like medicine.
This conversation is bound to go on for years to come, and definitions will continue to be revisited as the technology advances and boundaries are redrawn.
I think what I find most compelling is it’s only taken a few years for the industry to course-correct and become more sensible in its approach. I don’t know whether this is a result of more rational minds prevailing, customers growing weary of the hype, or a realization that over-promising on features isn’t good for business in the long term — probably a combination of all three.
Years ago, video analytics software makers made a lot of promises they couldn’t always deliver on. Today, the software is infinitely more sophisticated and the deliverables are real. Deep learning has had a lot to do with that growth. It took a long time to get from hype to reality in that case and I think the industry learned a valuable lesson. We’re seeing that adjustment in AI today and it’s another sign that the security industry is growing in maturity and sophistication. Nothing artificial about that.
Your Partner in Securing Canada Security Products & Technology News is published 8 times in 2019 by Annex Business Media. Its primary purpose is to serve as an information resource to installers, resellers and integrators working within the security and/or related industries. Editorial information is reported in a concise, accurate and unbiased manner on security products, systems and services, as well as on product areas related to the security industry.
Group Publisher, Paul Grossinger 416-510-5240 pgrossinger@annexbusinessmedia.com
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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Anna de Jager, Lanvac
Victor Harding, Harding Security Services Carl Jorgensen, Titan Products Group Antoinette Modica, Tech Systems of Canada Bob Moore, Axis Communications Roger Miller, Northeastern Protection Service Sam Shalaby, Feenics Inc.
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LINE CARD
FiRa Consortium could add a new dimension to access control
Anew industry consortium aims to change the way devices communicate by developing a technology that can pinpoint the location of objects within centimeters, while operating within line of sight up to 200 meters.
The FiRa Consortium (short for “fine ranging”) aims to harness Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for use in access control, object detection and location-based services.
UWB has existed as a technology for decades, but recent updates to the IEEE standard 802.15.4/4z, have enabled new use cases. The standard is “one of the key triggers for this renewed attention to this radio technology,” said Ramesh Songukrishnasamy, the consortium’s director and treasurer and
Songukrishnasamy, director of
CTO of HID Global.
“Any effort like this can only happen when we can build a rich ecosystem of partners,” he added. “One of the primary focuses of
TOA Canada partners with Access Direct Sales
TOA Canada Corp., a commercial audio and security equipment manufacturer, said recently it has teamed up with rep firm Access Direct Sales to expand its security sales and marketing efforts.
This partnership, which will see TOA’s IP and SIP intercom systems integrated into ADSI’s line card, was active as of September.
access to,” said TOA’s director, Rico Lucia, in a statement.
“We felt by creating another representation channel for our intercom security products, it would increase our visibility across Canada and reach markets that we don’t necessarily have
“We are extremely excited to represent TOA in the Canadian market place. It is always a privilege to be associated with an industry leader with such a great reputation for quality and service,” said Mark Cup, president of Access Direct Sales. “We see this agreement as an excellent opportunity for TOA and ADSI.”
ADSI has office locations in Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.
this consortium is really to create interoperability standards so that multiple device manufacturers, chipset manufacturers and service providers can all come together and deliver a more interoperable open solution to the market.”
Sponsor members of the consortium include HID Global, ASSA ABLOY (HID’s parent company), Bosch, Samsung and NXP. Newer members are Sony, Litepoint and TTA.
UWB isn’t designed to replace technologies that are already in common use for wireless security and access control, like WiFi, Bluetooth and NFC (near-field communication), but could work in conjunction to produce superior results.
There are multiple use cases for the technology — an obvious one is access control. Songukrishnasamy explained that NFC requires the user to practically touch a device to a reader in order to gain access, but with UWB the interaction is smoother. “That type of friction or inconvenience could be eliminated with this type of technology,” he said.
For example, since a device
(and its user) can be pinpointed to a highly accurate degree using UWB, the technology should be able to infer the user’s intention to approach a door much more easily.
“One of the primary focuses of this consortium is really to create interoperability standards.”
— Ramesh Songukrishnasamy, FiRa Consortium
“Using UWB, you can get more precise ranging and positioning, up to a centimeter. That would help one to determine how close they are to the door or the lock or a particular location, or where an asset is… things like that,” said Songukrishnasamy. He added that the “angle of arrival” will be much more apparent — i.e. whether the user is walking towards a receiving object, like a reader, or simply passing by it. “It’s very seamless compared to how you would do it otherwise.”
The consortium was in the planning stages in May, said Songukrishnasamy, and was formally established in August.
Songukrishnasamy estimates that by the end of this year, or early next, the standard will be available for use in future products.
“The fact that we have all the key industrial players as part of the consortium clearly demonstrates their commitment… We are talking to other players as well.”
HID Global conducted demonstrations of the technology at the recent GSX conference in Chicago along with partners Samsung and NXP. More information about FiRa, UWB and its use cases are available on the consortium’s website (www.firaconsortium.org).
— Neil Sutton
Ramesh
the FiRa Consortium, demonstrated the capabilities of Ultra-Wideband technology in the HID Global booth at the recent GSX conference in Chicago.
Rico Lucia, TOA Canada
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Calendar LINE CARD
Applications
High school updates access control
Corning High School, in Corning, Arkansas, has enhanced its lockdown capabilities by installing a wireless access control system.
The school selected the pdk io cloud-based solution, which provides around-the-clock accessibility, remote management, backup and redundancy, automated updates and cyber security. The install was performed by Blue Sky Technologies of Jonesboro.
The high school comprises seven buildings connected via breezeways. The wireless system was chosen because it suited the school’s layout and could be managed without the need to run copper or fibre cable.
The install includes exterior doors for each of the classroom buildings, plus a few additional locations. Students have access to classroom fobs to travel between buildings. Permissions can be managed, granting different levels of access to students, teachers, administrators and custodians.
Appointments
• Potter Electric Signal Company announced it has appointed Gerald Connolly as its CEO.
• Video surveillance firm Speco Technologies has announced the hiring of Anthony Espinoza as the newest addition to its sales engineering team. Espinoza previously worked for Pelco by Schneider Electric in engineering as a
Crash barriers down under Australian fun run, the City2Surf Run, covers a 14km course between Sydney’s Central Business District and scenic Bondi Beach. The annual event draws approximately 85,000 participants, who run the course in stages.
Australia-based Knight Brothers rented portable bollard barriers from Delta Scientific to help protect the runners.
“This annual event needs a vehicle access and control system that can be deployed temporarily and quickly to secure vehicle check points into the main event area for the mobilization, execution and demobilization phases,” said Matthew Knight, director of Knight Brothers Pty Ltd, Australian partner of Delta Scientific, in a statement.
The DSC1000 portable barrier from Delta Scientific is a self-contained unit that can be stored and towed on its own trailer. According to crash tests, the DSC1000 can stop a 2,300 kg vehicle going 64 kph.
software test specialist.
• David Meredith was recently appointed CEO of Everbridge and a member of the company’s board of directors. Meredith most recently served as COO at Rackspace.
• Bold Group announced the promotion of vice-president of technology, Matthew Narowski, to president. Narowski succeeds Rod Coles
Siklu, a provider of 5G mmWave wireless network solutions, says its radios have been deployed in the City of Cambridge, Ont.
Cambridge operates fibre connections but required a high-bandwidth wireless network solution to accommodate the necessary camera locations. The successful bidder on the project was Alliance Security Systems, also based in Cambridge. In phase one of the city’s deployment, the network design had six 1Gbps Siklu V-Band radios co-located at the city Clock Tower supporting Axis P3717 cameras managed by Genetec Security Center unified security platform. Since the initial deployment, the city provided access to police for specific investigations, resulting in a reduction in crime and the apprehension of a car-theft ring. In phase two, seven more cameras were added.
who announced his decision to retire.
• Resideo Technologies announced that Bob Appleby has joined its ADI Global Distribution business as vicepresident and general manager of ADI North America.
• Sean Cleary has been named director of financial solutions for Digital Monitoring Products (DMP).
October 12-16, 2019 TMA Annual Meeting Napa Valley, Calif. www.tma.us
October 21-22, 2019 CANASA Monitoring Symposium Toronto, Ont. www.canasa.org
October 23-24, 2019
Security Canada Central Toronto, Ont. www.securitycanada.com
October 25, 2019 Anixter Showcase Montreal, Que. www.anixter.com
October 29-30, 2019
Securing New Ground New York, N.Y. sng.securityindustry.org
November 1, 2019 InfraCanada Central Niagara Falls, Ont. www.flir.ca
November 20-21, 2019 ISC East New York, N.Y. www.isceast.com
December 5, 2019 Focus On Healthcare Security Toronto, Ont. www.focusonseries.ca
March 18-20, 2020 ISC West Las Vegas, Nev. www.iscwest.com
April 22, 2020
Security Canada East Laval, Que. www.securitycanada.com
May 6, 2020
Security Canada Alberta Edmonton, Alta. www.securitycanada.com
Cambridge, Ont., adopts wireless for surveillance
Gerald Connolly
David Meredith Matthew Narowski
Anthony Espinoza
Sean Cleary
Bob Appleby
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Lanvac: Video verification is “the future of monitoring” LINE CARD
As the alarm industry grapples with high false alarm rates that create headaches for police services and reduce the efficiency of monitoring operations, video verification is becoming an attractive option.
During a presentation at an August event in Toronto, hosted by security products distributor Ameta International, Anna de Jager, vice-president of business development at Montreal-based Lanvac Surveillance, discussed the value of using video to keep properties safe.
De Jager, whose firm provides wholesale monitoring for dealers and integrators, explained that other types of verification for an intrusion incident aren’t as effective as video hooked up to and triggered by an alarm system.
Cross-zoning verification requires two zones on the property to be tripped, but for that, “you’re depending on a system that’s installed in a way that two zones would trigger based on the intrusion,” de Jager said. “What if they came in through the roof? There’s just so many options.”
Audio, meanwhile, can’t determine who has tripped the alarm or what they are doing, de Jager said.
De Jager also asserted that video is a more effective verification method than a guard, explaining that trained thieves will trip alarms multiple times, banking on users neglecting to send in a guard to check on the property after several false alarms. “By having video, you know that each and every time, we’re looking in and we’re checking.”
IHS Markit report: Robust growth for surveillance market in 2019
According to recent research from IHS Markit, the global professional video surveillance market is expected to grow 9.3 per cent this year, with a worldwide revenue of US$19.9 billion (up from US$18.2 billion the previous year).
IHS Markit attributes the growth to “a strong demand for improvements in security, public safety and business intelligence.”
This is the third straight year of solid growth for the surveillance market after much weaker gains in 2016 (3.9 per cent) and 2015 (1.9 per cent).
“The professional video surveillance equipment market’s recent growth reflects the continued high spending on security in both the public and private sectors,” said Jon Cropley, senior principal analyst, video surveillance, at IHS Markit, in a research note.
“On the public side, governments are investing in video surveillance equipment to enhance citizen safety and to equip smart city projects. In the private sector, companies are adding video surveillance gear to combat crime and to gather new types of business intelligence.”
Much of the growth is coming from the Chinese market. In 2018, the nation accounted for almost half of global business (45 per cent) by itself.
The IHS Markit report noted that the global surveillance market includes recorders, analytics appliances and VMS software in addition to camera hardware.
The supply of surveillance equipment is provided by fewer vendors today. While still “highly fragmented” when compared to other industries, IHS Markit reports that the top 15 vendors in the market accounted for 65 per cent of global revenue last year. In 2014, it was 52 per cent.
Video is also safer than sending in a guard or a keyholder, according to de Jager. “Another huge issue is sending someone into a site not knowing if someone is still there,” she said. “Often people (intruders) go into somewhere, they’re not expecting to hurt you, they’re not expecting to get into an altercation, but god forbid you walk in on someone breaking in, you don’t know how they’re going to react.”
“By having video, you know that each and every time, we’re looking in and we’re checking.”
— Anna de Jager, Lanvac
In addition to offering more effective verification, de Jager said opting for video monitoring can also lead to savings on manpower costs and insurance.
“More and more insurance companies are offering additional discounts for video monitoring. It’s wise that they would. They reduce their liability for fraud quite substantially if they can look in and see a video of the event.”
While accuracy, safety and cost-savings are certainly attractive to end users, de Jager asserted that what everyone really wants is faster response from police. “A video operator is able to call the police department and say, ‘I see an event that’s happening,’ and the police dispatcher takes that as a 911 call,” she said.
De Jager also said that video will eventually become integral to maintaining compliance with police. Already police services across Canada are starting to require some combination of video, audio, cross-zoning or contacting keyholders before they will respond to an alarm, but video verification could eventually become mandatory. “I believe very strongly that in the next five years, police departments will not even attend if they don’t have video. And that’s true already in many countries in Europe,” de Jager said.
Patti Jones, president of the Northern Alberta council, CANASA, who was interviewed by SP&T News in the June/July issue about alarm verification practices, also sees police services requiring video verification in the future, as a response to sky-high false alarm rates.
“At some point, it might be, if it’s not visually verified there’s not going to be a response. I wouldn’t be surprised to see that in the next couple of years.”
De Jager said, “By starting to offer this service (video monitoring), you’re going to be ahead of the game…Video is the future of the monitoring world.”
— Will Mazgay
Anna de Jager, Lanvac
EMPOWERING through
CAMERA CORNER
By Colin Bodbyl
Deep in thought
A subset of AI, deep learning has changed the game for object recognition
By now everyone has heard the term AI. Some believe it will drive the next technology revolution, while others fear it will bring the end of the world, but what is AI, anyway? Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a machine or computer performing a task that would normally require human intelligence to complete. AI has existed since the 1950’s when Alan Turing first contemplated whether machines could think. While artificial intelligence has existed for a long time, it’s first transformational breakthrough came in the form of machine learning.
Machine learning is a subset of AI. With machine learning, a human manually trains the computer on what criteria it needs to use in order to perform a given task like identifying an object in an image. For example, with machine learning, a human may tell the computer that anything with four legs, a tail, fur, pointed ears, and two eyes is a cat. This same computer could now search through thousands of images using machine learning to classify cats versus other animals based on the set criteria. As the computer returns false results a human could interpret what features the computer is struggling with and further refine its training in order to improve accuracy.
The challenge with machine learning is that accuracy levels often fall well below human levels. While most humans could identify the difference between a cat and a different animal with near 100 per cent accuracy, machine learning would peak at around 80 per cent. Ultimately, it was another breakthrough in AI, called deep learning, that changed all this and fueled the recent proliferation of AI.
“Understanding how AI works is critical to grasping its potential.”
Deep learning is a subset of machine learning. Where machine learning requires a human to pre-program criteria into the computer, deep learning takes a different approach.
Rather than telling the computer what a cat looks like and then asking it to identify cats based on those criteria, deep learning is programmed by telling the computer that you are about to show it several thousand images of cats, and then allowing the computer to analyze each image and decide for itself what qualifies each one as a cat. By allowing the computer to iden-
tify key traits across images, deep learning is not only more accurate than machine learning, but also continues to get more accurate with every new image it sees.
It is the ability to continuously self-improve without human intervention that has brought AI back into the spotlight. Outside of the security industry, AI has already outperformed humans in fields like medicine where it can more accurately identify problems on an x-ray or CT scan. In this case the AI also benefits from infinite memory and the ability to learn every possible condition that could appear on a given scan, where traditional doctors cannot retain that same knowledge.
In security, AI is mostly being used to identify specific objects in live and recorded video, but it will eventually do so much more. Understanding how AI works at its most basic level is critical to grasping its potential. In the past, we have seen innovators in our industry compete to have the highest resolution camera, or the best video compression. AI is bringing the next technology race to the security industry but this time the finish line is truly unknown.
Colin Bodbyl is the chief technology officer of Stealth Monitoring (www.stealthmonitoring.com).
By Patrick Straw
Exciting oppor tunities ahead in the fall CANASA UPDATE
Two Toronto events, the Monitoring Station Symposium and Security Canada Central, are right around the corner
The fall is always a busy and exciting time for CANASA, and this year is no different! Here’s what’s happening over the coming months:
Security Canada Update
We’ve wrapped up the first five shows of Security Canada held in Laval, Que., Ottawa, Edmonton, Richmond, B.C. and Moncton, N.B.
Security Canada Central, the largest security show in the country held in Toronto on Oct. 23 and 24, is shaping up to be another successful gathering as we build on the attendance and exhibit increase from 2018.
Patrick Straw
The big show kicks off with our annual keynote address, this year presented by the Toronto Police Guns and Gangs unit. This important gathering promises to be an extraordinary and timely event, considering the current situation and initiatives that have been put into place over the last few months.
Along with the keynote, there are a number of free educational sessions that provide visitors with the opportunity to learn from the experts in their respective fields. Topics such as CCTV camera usage, perimeter security trends and managing corporate security programs are just a few of the highlights. Be sure to visit www.securitycanada.com/attend/ central for all the details.
These educational sessions are free with registration and run over the two days of the show. So if you haven’t registered yet, we urge you to do so by visiting www.securitycanada.com to see all the information on this important security show.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see and experience hands-on the latest in security products and technologies on offer from the leading manufacturers and suppliers in Canada. Here are some of the comments from previous attendees:
• “Hope to continue to attend, I like what it had to offer.”
• “The one show you have to attend if you want to keep up with what’s new and important in the industry.”
• “Keep up the great work. I attend every year and wouldn’t miss it!”
Monitoring Station Symposium Update
CANASA is offering a special two-day Monitoring Station Symposium in Toronto on Oct. 21 and 22 which will include a tour of the LANVAC monitoring station and panel discussion which will explore changes in standards, the future of monitoring and how to attract and keep key talent. This important event requires registration, so please visit www.canasa.org for all the information.
Patrick Straw is the executive director of CANASA (www.canasa.org).
LESSONS LEARNED
RBy Victor Harding
One hot market
Today’s fire companies are solid revenue generators, drawing significant interest from private equity
ecently I have been doing more and more work in the fire industry in Canada, either valuing fire companies or selling them. For me and others in the intermediary/broker/investment banker world, fire companies are slowly replacing alarm companies as the hot commodity in the mergers and acquisition business. Most of this interest is coming from private equity (PE) firms — not from the larger fire companies; they don’t seem to have the same interest in aggressively “rolling up” these smaller fire companies. In the last month alone, two major fire companies in Canada have been bought by private equity groups. What do these PE firms know that the rest of us have not yet figured out?
When shifts in buyer interest (to fire companies) and buyer type (private equity) like this happen I am virtually forced to adapt in a hurry. Often you do this by trial and error. Fire companies, as compared to alarm companies, are valued in a much more conventional way using a multiple of normalized earnings. And so far, I like dealing with PE firms.
By fire companies I mean what is generally referred to as fire service companies— companies whose most basic service is the annual inspection of all kinds of premises in their market area. Sometimes the inspection includes the sprinkler system in the building. These inspections are mandated by law in the fire code. The fire code is the bible. These same companies also often replace and re-charge fire extinguishers on a regular basis, install and service emergency lighting, in some cases do fire suppression work in restaurants and retrofit fire panels into various types of premises. The common characteristic to most fire work is that it is almost all mandated by law. This is one big feature that PE firms like about fire companies.
I am guessing there are close to 1,500-2,000 of these fire service companies in Canada. The majority vary in size from as small as $300,000 in annual revenue up to $5 million. Then there are the national players like Chubb, Simplex Grinnell, Vipond, Mircom, Troy and Viking. The majority of the smaller players employ three to 10 people, most of whom are technicians with some kind of fire certification. Note to anyone trying to get into this business: Finding CFAA-certified technicans is difficult, maybe even more difficult that finding a good tech for security work.
“Fire companies also produce recurring revenue.”
PE firms can be a broker’s dream! They generally know what they are looking for and will tell you quickly whether they are interested in what you have for sale. And they are not afraid to buy shares. They buy companies all the time so they have the buying process down pat. They know how to value a company and are often not afraid to pay a full price when you have a good company for sale. As an added bonus, if you pay attention, you can also learn about the industry from PE players by the way they analyze the business. Finally, they mostly always have the money on hand to do the deal. No need to talk to banks, which can add weeks to your deal. So why are PE firms shifting their focus over to fire businesses? It is partly that their business is mandated by law. But I think it is also the fact that fire companies almost always make money and in some cases lots of it. I have had at least eight different fire companies as clients over the last five years and every single one of them made good money, i.e. 15 per cent of revenue dropping to the bottom line each year. For example, I recently did some work for a Canadi-
an fire company doing $2.3 million of business annually that produced $580,000 per year of EBITDA or earnings. That is a 25 per cent return on sales. You won’t find alarm, integration or guard companies making that kind of money.
And guess what? Fire companies also produce recurring revenue. Today, fire inspection revenue and even the service revenue that comes after is treated and valued as a form of recurring revenue. It may not produce the same margins as monitoring revenue (55-70 per cent) but in many cases the attrition rate on fire inspection accounts is lower than with alarm accounts. Moreover, fire companies don’t tend to discount their installation or service work nearly as much as alarm companies.
Finally, fire monitoring revenue is much sought after because it tends to be higher margin, less active in terms of signal traffic, and “stickier.” Fire monitoring accounts cancel less. Amazingly enough, many fire service companies don’t search this fire monitoring revenue out.
The fire industry is hot right now and for good reason. Too bad the PE firms seem to be the only ones realizing this.
Victor Harding is the principal of Harding Security Services (victor@hardingsecurity.ca).
2019 SECURITY INTEGRATOR OF THE YEAR
SMART CITY VISION
Convergint Technologies’ Calgary office helps the municipality realize its long-term plan for security services and more
By Neil Sutton
Acity on the move, Calgary is in the midst of a transformation into a smart city, taking advantage of the latest in security and situational awareness technology and harnessing it to improve not only security, but services that reach deeper into its infrastructure, like transportation, energy management and potentially a lot more.
To get there, the City of Calgary needs business partners — companies and organizations it can rely on for service delivery and sound advice.
One of those partners is the Calgary office of Convergint Technologies, an integration services company with locations across the globe. For its role in helping Calgary select and install new security technology and for having a proven track record of partnership with the municipality, Convergint has been named as Integrator of the Year 2019, sponsored by Anixter Canada, by SP&T News’ editorial advisory board.
Based on a nomination that emphasized the City of Calgary’s smart city initiative, and Convergint’s role in enabling technology transformation, the board recognized the complexity and scale of Calgary’s integration roadmap and
Images courtesy
City of Calgary
Convergint’s superior level of customer service.
Convergint is one of four major integrators qualified by the City of Calgary to work on large projects. A city the size of Calgary generates a dozen or more security integration projects at any given time, says Alex Lee, security advisor, corporate security, City of Calgary. The work is divided up between Calgary’s qualified integrators based on an open bid process. Where Convergint has really shined, says Lee, is in its consistent dedication to bringing best of breed technology to the table and going the extra mile in the early stages of a project — even when there’s no guarantee that Convergint will be the integrator of record.
Proof of concept
Lee says the city favours a shoot-out approach to new technology, and employs a proof of concept methodology when trying out different solutions.
Like many major organizations, Calgary is in the midst of transitioning its legacy equipment over to the latest in network technology. A major undertaking was upgrading its analogue cameras, which numbered over 1,000, to IP-based systems — a key component in its ambition to adopt a smart city approach. In short, it needed new cameras and a new video management platform upon which to build.
Lee says Calgary invited multiple integra-
THE
tors to showcase VMS technology, which would be tested in the city’s lab environment to assess their worthiness and suitability. It was Milestone Systems’ XProtect Corporate that was ultimately successful — an open platform VMS that Convergint brought to the process.
“We did a VMS shootout before deciding
“They wanted to open up to more integrations and ultimately it was leading to a smart city play.”
— Mark Sheahan, Convergint
WIRELESS SUPERPOWER
on Milestone, and Convergint was a big part of that,” says Lee. “We went out said, ‘We’re looking for a new VMS … this is what we’re expecting our VMS to do.’”
“The biggest reason they went to Milestone was the depth of integration it offered with other third-party platforms,” adds Mark Sheahan, account executive, Convergint Calgary. “They wanted to open up to more integrations and ultimately it was leading to a smart city play.”
Lee emphasizes that Convergint was always willing to put in the legwork when it came to the proof of concept phase of any new technology — a process that in would no way guarantee they would ultimately be the firm installing it.
“We’ve been running several POCs (proof of concepts) with Convergint. They’re the ones stepping forward and saying, ‘Hey this would be a good solution for what you guys are looking for,’” says Lee. “They weren’t guaranteed the sale, but they were still going above and beyond.”
Convergint successfully bid on several projects that include Milestone technology, a platform that has become a foundational software for the city, in addition to its Lenel access control platform and Commend intercom system.
Upgrading to IP
Convergint also brought another major piece of the puzzle to the City of Calgary: Axis Communications’ surveillance technology.
Mark Sheahan, Convergint (left) and Alex Lee, City of Calgary
Prior to Milestone going into production for the city back in 2016, Calgary was still installing analogue-based security cameras, according to Lee. After Milestone, it was a different scenario altogether and IP came sharply into focus.
"Basically it was one project at a time ... building out the platform with every new project."
— Mark Sheahan, Convergint
“They did an assessment on Axis, and I can say that Convergint brought Axis to the city,” says Sheahan. “We worked with the city and through a selection process, they were chosen as best of breed. When you look at the value of the offering versus the price, they scored highest.”
Lee agrees that Convergint was instrumental in bringing Axis to Calgary. The city has installed numerous Axis models for different applications, including high-resolution, multi-sensor, PTZ systems, thermal imaging cameras, along with Axis radar detectors and the company’s Perimeter Defender video analytics platform — the latter, when integrated with Milestone’s VMS can be utilized as an intrusion detection tool. (These
details were included in Convergint’s Integrator of the Year nomination, which was submitted by Milestone Systems.)
Tackling major projects
Two major integration projects undertaken by Convergint for the city are the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant, which provides more than one million Calgarians with reliable drinking water, and a Calgary facility which is used by the city’s road unit to store light post stanchions, copper wire, fibre and other valuable supplies. Both involved deployments of Axis technology integrated with the Milestone VMS.
The Glenmore project in particular was a huge undertaking, adds Lee, representing more than one million dollars in security equipment and was likely the city’s largest security project since a CCTV upgrade for Calgary’s Light Rail Transit (LRT) in 2011. (Coincidentally, that project, conducted by integrator Contava — now part of the Paladin Technologies group — was recognized with the Integrator of the Year award that year.)
“Basically it was one project at a time — upgrading or putting in new Axis cameras on the Milestone systems — building out the platform with every new project that they do and every retrofit,” says Sheahan of Convergint’s long track record with the city. “Alongside that, just trying to bring them as many new technologies as we could to assess or to adopt.”
Inside Calgary’s Integrated Security Control Centre An
Lee lauds Sheahan for his dedication to this process and Calgary’s proof of concept approach to new technology. “Mark has been a big, big player in that.”
“We’re doing huge, huge things with this situational awareness software. We have some grand plans.”
— Alex Lee, City of Calgary
Live Earth
A technology discovery, again brought to the table by Sheahan, could be a potential game-changer for the City of Calgary: Live Earth, a GIS-based (geographic information system) data visualization system that conveys information via mapping software. It can be integrated with multiple sources, including Milestone surveillance data, traffic information, Doppler radar (for weather mapping), as well as potentially many others.
Lee says Calgary had been looking for a PSIM-type (physical security information management) solution for a long time.
“We hadn’t heard of Live Earth,” says Lee. “It was something Mark had seen at a [Milestone Systems] conference. He came back and said, ‘I know you guys are looking for some PSIM software — you wouldn’t believe what I just saw.’”
“It can ingest thousands of points of data at any time of the day and then it maps them. The map is interactive,” explains Sheahan. “It has a touchscreen interface. If you want to see a camera, a weather update, something that’s going on in traffic, you basically just use the touchscreen and the map. You can geofence, you can locate, you can plan operations.”
From there, Live Earth was submitted to Calgary’s customary proof of concept process and once deemed successful, became part of a
larger project to upgrade the city’s Integrated Security Control Centre (ISC).
Again, it was submitted to an open tender process and Convergint won the bid. “It was a win-win for everybody. That just shows you the legwork that Mark at Convergint put in. He’s not even banking on the fact that he will win the bid,” says Lee.
Calgary has an award-winning GIS team that has mapped practically every inch of the city — everything from the electrical grid to sewer pipelines. Lee explains that the department was able to integrate its existing data into Live Earth and populate it almost immediately.
Future city
Through Live Earth, Lee says he can envision a future when Calgary’s security department becomes even more instrumental in the city’s day-to-day functions.
“We’re doing huge, huge things with this situational awareness software. We have some grand plans to use it not just for security but for logistical and operational efficiencies as well,” he says.
“I think it’s going to be used much, much more than as just a piece of security software, which is what I’m aiming for. We’ve got to look outside the box of just security and how we can really utilize our excellent map of the city and our cameras throughout our city.”
Convergint has been a valuable partner throughout the smart city transformation, says Lee. Since every security project that’s tabled by the city must be submitted to an open bid process, there is never a guarantee of work. But that’s never interfered with the long-term relationship between the integrator and the municipality.
“There’s a couple of projects that Convergint didn’t win the bid on,” he says, “but they put their best foot forward — listening to our needs and our wants and putting their ear to the ground and bringing us reliable solutions.”
Live Earth can take data inputs from multiple sources and display them across a map
Bosch Security and Safety Systems is a supplier of security, safety and communications products. Protecting lives, buildings and assets is the major aim. The portfolio includes video surveillance, intrusion detection, access control and management systems. Professional audio and conference systems for communication of voice, sound and music complete the range.
Camden Door Controls
5502 Timberlea Blvd.
Mississauga, ON L4W 2T7
Tel: 877-226-3369
Fax: 888-436-8739
Email: csr@camdencontrols.com
Web: www.camdencontrols.com
Camden is an ISO-9002:2015 certified manufacturer of door activation, control and locking products with a defect rate of less than 1%. We offer ½” thick fire rated RIM strikes, 915Mhz. spread spectrum wireless system, battery-less Kinetic™ wireless system, REX detector with on-board programming buttons, line and battery operated touchless switches.
Canadian
Canadian Security Magazine 111 Gordon Baker Rd., Suite 400 Toronto, ON M2H 3R1
Tel: 416-510-5117
Fax: 416-442-2230
Email: jhill@annexbusinessmedia.com
Web: www.canadiansecuritymag.com
For 40 years Canadian Security magazine has been the voice of the security industry in Canada. It is the leading publication in Canada for corporate security directors, life safety managers and loss prevention professionals as well as the integrators and service providers who work with them.
CBC America / Ganz Security 2000 Regency Pky., Suite 600 Cary, NC 27518
Tel: 919-230-8700
Web: www.ganzsecurity.com
dormakaba Canada Inc. 901 Burns St., E. Whitby, ON L1N 0E6
Tel: 905-430-7226
Fax: 905-430-7275
Email: eadorders.ca@dormakaba.com
Web: www.dormakaba.com
Some call it access control…We call it Trust. Trust dormakaba electronic access solutions to deliver user convenience and operational efficiency. Our access control software, networked access systems and electronic access hardware are designed for commercial building applications with a single goal in mind - making access in life smart and secure.
ELK Products Inc.
3266 US Hwy 70 Connelly Springs, NC 28612
Tel: 800-797-9355
Fax: 828-397-4415
Email: sales@elkproducts.com
Web: www.elkproducts.com
ELK is a leading designer and manufacturer of customized security, automation, energy management and convenience solutions. We have created a trusted brand with simple, yet innovative products that have now become industry standards. We stand behind the products we sell with industry leading customer service, technical support and product warranties.
Address Section
F
Feenics, Inc.
2310 St. Laurent Blvd., Suite 301
Ottawa, ON K1G 5H9
Tel: 613-520-2455
Fax: 613-520-0308
Web: www.feenics.com
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
14 Meteor Dr. Toronto, ON M9W 1A4
Tel: 416-235-1818
Fax: 416-235-1226
Web: www.fitch.ca
For 40+ years Fitch has been designinginstalling-servicing the most reliable and technologically advanced end-to-end electronic security systems. Fitch prides itself on delivering superior humanverification, crime-prevention and detection and record-capture systems and with knowledgeable, friendly and fully-trained Sales-Installation-Service staff, you get a complete electronic security service –delivered with professionalism.
G
Genetec Inc.
2280 boul Alfred-Nobel
Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 2A4
Tel: 514-332-4000
Global Link Response Centre Inc
716 Gordon Baker Road, Suite 205A North York, ON M2H 3B4
Tel: 416-609-7335
Fax: 416-321-9688
Email: info@global-link.ca
Web: www.global-link.ca
Global Link Response Centre Inc. is one of the primary leaders in the security industry. We provide professional and reliable monitoring services to thousands of homes and businesses across Canada. Our two fully computerized 24/7 state-of-the art monitoring station are ULC listed.
GSD Group
2010 Michelin
Laval, QC H7L 5C2
Tel: 514-746-9141
Web: www.gsdgroup.ca
HHall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
5477 RR 5, Highway 6, N. Guelph, ON N1H 6J2
Tel: 519-822-5420
Fax: 519-822-5462
Hanwha Techwin America
500 Frank W. Burr Blvd.
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Tel: 877-213-1222
Email: customerservice@hanwha.com
Web: www.hanwhasecurity.com
Hanwha Techwin America, a South Korea based company, is a leading global supplier of IP and analog video surveillance solutions. Building on the company’s history of innovation, Hanwha Techwin is dedicated to providing solutions with the highest levels of performance, reliability and cost-efficiency for professional security applications. Visit www.HanwhaSecurity.com.
Harding Security Services Inc.
70 Shaftesbury Ave., Unit 10 Toronto, ON M4T 1A3
Tel: 416-925-7474
Fax: 416-915-6259
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
233 Midland Ave.
Midland, ON L4R 3K1
Tel: 705-526-9311
Fax: 705-527-4530
Invixium
310-50 Acadia Avenue
Markham, ON L3R 0B3
Tel: 1-844-468-4948
Web: www.invixium.com
Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada Inc.
4299 14th Ave.
Markham, ON L3R 0J3
Tel: 905-475-7728
Fax: 905-475-7958
Web: www.mitsubishielectric.ca
Mitsubishi Electric is one of the world’s largest manufacturers, providing reliable display solutions with superb performance and high quality display of data, graphics video from multiple simultaneous information sources in 24x7x365 applications, aiding collaborative decision
making, enhanced operator performance and response in mission-critical command, control, dispatch, security surveillance environments.
Panasonic Canada Inc
5770 Ambler Drive
Mississauga, ON L4W 2T3
Tel: (905) 624-5010
Web: www.panasonic.com/ca
PLG Manufacturers Representative P.O.Box 60001
Boisbriand, QC J7H 0G7
Tel: 514-237-6185
QNAP, Inc.
21 Amber Street Unit 11
Markham, ON L3R 4Z3
Tel: 905-947-1000
Web: www.qnap.com
Regal Security Inc.
1244 Caledonia Rd. Toronto, ON M6A 2X5
Tel: (416) 633-8558
Web: www.regalsecurity.ca
RSPNDR Inc.
325 Front Street W Suite 400 Toronto, ON M5V 2Y1
Tel: 1-866-4RSPNDR (1-866-477-7637) S
security industry with the latest news, products and trends.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
70 1st Ave., N. Yorkton, SK S3N 1J6
Tel: 1-844-321-2712
Fax: 306-782-5255
Email: sales@securtek.sk.ca
Web: www.securtek.com
SecurTek is a monitoring company that uses a highly skilled workforce and long-term partnerships with independent security companies to deliver security and management services to customers in select Canadian markets. Contact us to learn more about what we have to offer and how you can benefit from joining our Dealer Program!
TTOA Canada Corporation
3670 Odyssey Dr., Unit 1 Mississauga, ON L5M 0Y9
Tel: 800-263-7639
Fax: 800-463-3569
Web: www.toacanada.com
TRENDnet
20675 Manhattan Place
Torrance, CA 90501
Tel: +1-310-961-5500
Fax: +1-310-961-5511
Email: sales@trendnet.com
Web: www.trendnet.com
TRENDnet is a global provider of awardwinning networking and surveillance solutions to SMB and home users. Since 1990, TRENDnet solutions have networked countless devices to enable your connected lifestyle and workplace. TRENDnet’s portfolio includes indoor and outdoor Wireless, Switches, PoE, Industrial, Fiber, Surveillance, IP Cameras, NVRs, KVM, Powerline, and more.
SP&T News Magazine
111 Gordon Baker Rd., Suite 400 Toronto, ON M2H 3R1
Tel: 416-510-5117
Fax: 416-442-2230
Email: jhill@annexbusinessmedia.com
Web: www.sptnews.ca
SP&T News is the primary source of information for dealers, installers, system integrators, resellers and specifiers working in the Canadian security industry. Through its 8 yearly issues, numerous supplements, bi-weekly e-mail newsletters and constantly updated Web site, SP&T provides Canada’s
ACCESS CONTROL
Biometrics
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Invixium
Cards/Card Access/Card Readers
Aartech Canada Inc.
AMAG Technology
Camden Door Controls
CBC America / Ganz Security
dormakaba Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Invixium
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Door Panels
Aartech Canada Inc.
AMAG Technology
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
TOA Canada Corporation
Egress Devices
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
CBC America / Ganz Security
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Electric Strikes
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Electronic Access Control
Aartech Canada Inc.
Abloy Canada Inc.
AMAG Technology
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Invixium
Regal Security Inc.
Facial Recognition
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Invixium
Fingerprint
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Invixium
Iris Recognition
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Keypad
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Locksets
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Magnetic Strikes
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Request to Exit
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Software
Aartech Canada Inc.
AMAG Technology
Feenics, Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Invixium
Telephone Entry Control
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Regal Security Inc.
Video ID Equipment
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
ALARMS
Alarm Company/Dealer
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc
Harding Security Services Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Annunciators
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Arm/Disarm Stations
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Batteries/Power Supplies
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Bells/Sirens
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Burglar Alarms
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Controls/Control Panels/Control Communicators
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Sounding Devices
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Temperature Alarms
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Wireless Alarm Equipment
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
DEALER / DISTRIBUTOR SERVICES
Decals & Signs
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Marketing
SP&T News Magazine
Professional Services
Global Link Response Centre Inc
DETECTION CONTROLS / DEVICES
Actuating Devices
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Door Control/Panic Hardware
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Evacuation Systems
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
TOA Canada Corporation
Fire Detectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Gas Detectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Indicators, Audible/AV
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Metal Detectors
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Smoke Detectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Sprinkler System Supervision
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc
Testing Devices & Accessories
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
ENTRY / EXIT SCREENING
SYSTEMS
Optical Turnstiles
Automatic Systems America, Inc
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
FIRE & LIFE SAFETY
CO Detectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
ELK Products Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Control Panels
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Enclosures
ELK Products Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Mass Notification
Camden Door Controls
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
TOA Canada Corporation
Notification Devices
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Power Supplies
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Pull Stations
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Camden Door Controls
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Smoke Detectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Testers
Aartech Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
GUARD SERVICES
Guard Response
All American Monitoring
Regal Security Inc.
RSPNDR Inc.
Guard Tour
All American Monitoring
Regal Security Inc.
RSPNDR Inc.
HOME AUTOMATION
Communication Equipment
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Custom Installed Sound & Video Systems
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Environmental and Energy Systems
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Home Controls
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Home Theatre
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
HVAC Controls
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Indoor/Outdoor Systems
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Intercoms/Paging Devices
Aartech Canada Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Lighting & Low Voltage
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Network/Integration Products
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
TRENDnet
Wire & Cable
Aartech Canada Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
TRENDnet
ID SYSTEMS AND SUPPLIES
Employee/Visitor Badges
AMAG Technology
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
High Security ID Equipment
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Instant Photo ID Equipment
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Smart Cards
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
INDUSTRY RESOURCES
Market Research
Canadian Security Magazine
SP&T News Magazine
IT SECURITY
Application Security QNAP, Inc.
Cloud Computing QNAP, Inc.
Data Loss Protection QNAP, Inc.
Data Recovery QNAP, Inc.
Database Security QNAP, Inc.
Digital Rights Management Genetec Inc.
Encryption QNAP, Inc.
Enterprise Management Genetec Inc.
Hard Disk Encryption QNAP, Inc.
Identity Management Genetec Inc.
Internet Security QNAP, Inc.
Managed Services QNAP, Inc.
Mobile Security Regal Security Inc.
Network Security QNAP, Inc.
Racks & Cabinets
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Remote Access QNAP, Inc.
TRENDnet
Storage GSD Group QNAP, Inc.
LOCKS / SAFES / DOOR HARDWARE
Combination Locks
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Computer Locks
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Door Hardware
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Electromagnetic Locks
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
High Security Locks
Abloy Canada Inc.
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Key Control Systems
Abloy Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Keyed Locks and Padlocks
Abloy Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Keyless Locks
Aartech Canada Inc.
Camden Door Controls
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Safes and Vaults
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
MISCELLANEOUS
Cloud Computing
Genetec Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
Fog Security
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Installation Tools
Camden Door Controls
ELK Products Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Security Product Distributor
Aartech Canada Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Security Systems Integrator
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
MONITORING EQUIPMENT / SYSTEMS / SERVICES
Alarm Monitoring Software
Genetec Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Central Station Equipment
GSD Group
QNAP, Inc.
Central Station Monitoring Services
All American Monitoring
Armstrong’s National Alarm Monitoring
Global Link Response Centre Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Command & Control
Genetec Inc.
Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada Inc.
OUTDOOR PERIMETER PROTECTION
Fences
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Gate Operators
Aartech Canada Inc.
Automatic Systems America, Inc
Camden Door Controls
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Outdoor Intrusion Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Perimeter Barriers/Deterrents
Aartech Canada Inc.
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Security Doors
Automatic Systems America, Inc
Boon Edam Inc.
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Security Lighting
Aartech Canada Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Turnstiles
Aartech Canada Inc.
Automatic Systems America, Inc
Boon Edam Inc.
dormakaba Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
PROCEDURAL SECURITY
Asset Protection
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Data Back Up / Storage
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Incident Management
Genetec Inc.
Investigations
Genetec Inc.
Loss Prevention
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Risk Analysis
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Security Audits
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Vulnerability & Risk Assessment
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
PUBLIC SECURITY & SAFETY
Communications
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Detection
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Perimeter & Barrier Protection
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Port & Cargo
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
SENSORS
Contacts/Switches
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Dual Technology Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Flood Alarms
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Glass Protection
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Light Control Motion Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
PIR Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Proximity Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Screen Sensors
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Vehicle Detection
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
SOUND / COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT
Loudspeakers
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
TOA Canada Corporation
Music-Intercom Systems
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
TOA Canada Corporation
Public Address Systems
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
TOA Canada Corporation
Racks & Cabinets
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Radio Communication Equipment
Aartech Canada Inc.
Telephone Systems & Accessories
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SPECIAL PURPOSE PROTECTION
Covert Surveillance Equipment
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
TRENDnet
Medical Alert Systems
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Panic Buttons
Aartech Canada Inc.
All American Monitoring
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
ELK Products Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Personal Protection Devices
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
SecurTek Monitoring Solutions
Power Supply
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative TRENDnet
Security Windows
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Surge Protectors
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Window Bars
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Window Film
Regal Security Inc.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Consoles
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc
Data Storage
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Panasonic Canada Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
Data Transmission
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Panasonic Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Digital Recorders
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
TRENDnet
Housings, Enclosures, Mounting Equipment
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
TRENDnet
IP Video Surveillance/Solutions
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Global Link Response Centre Inc
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Hanwha Techwin America
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
TRENDnet
Lenses
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Monitors
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Multiplexers
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Pan/Tilt Mechanisms
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
TRENDnet
Repair and Maintenance
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Software
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
TRENDnet
Switchers
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Panasonic Canada Inc.
QNAP, Inc.
TRENDnet
Thermal Cameras
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
Time-Lapse Recorders
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Regal Security Inc.
Video Management Systems (VMS)
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Bosch Security and Safety Systems
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Genetec Inc.
GSD Group
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Hanwha Techwin America
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
QNAP, Inc.
Regal Security Inc.
TRENDnet
Video Motion Detectors
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
CBC America / Ganz Security
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
GSD Group
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Panasonic Canada Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
Regal Security Inc.
WIRE & CABLE
Coaxial Cable
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Fibre Optic
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
TRENDnet
Plenum Cable
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Speaker Wire
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Structured Wiring
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
ELK Products Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Wire & Cable Testers
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Aartech Canada Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
TRENDnet
Wire Assemblies
A.S. Security & Surveillance
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
WIRELESS
Digital Communication
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Multiplexers
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Radio Telemetry
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Remote Monitoring
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
TRENDnet
Wireless Communication Equipment
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Hall Telecommunications Supply Ltd.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
PLG Manufacturers Representative
TRENDnet
Wireless Controls
Aartech Canada Inc.
Fitch Security Integration Inc.
Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
What is open and why is it important?
Open systems is a phrase you hear often in security, but the true meaning may depend on who you ask
By Kim Rahfaldt
Many discussions have occurred in the security industry lately about open versus proprietary technology. End users prefer to install and operate systems they deem as open, versus installing systems that are viewed as proprietary (or closed). An open system provides more choices. End users can easily expand their security systems and integrate with complementary technologies necessary to secure their people, property and assets. But as I researched and talked with others in the industry, I realized that everyone has their own idea of what “open” really means.
What is open?
According to TechTarget, “an open API, also known as a public API, is an application programming interface that allows the owner of a network-accessible service to give universal access to consumers of that service, such as developers.”
My company’s (AMAG Technology) definition of open is when a manufacturer develops software and hardware and makes the API available to any company who wishes to integrate with another company’s software or hardware.
A proprietary system is a closed system that only works with a manufacturer’s own hardware and software. Proprietary companies do not share their API.
Some manufacturers claim they are open as part of their business model, and they will stake their brand and reputation on being open. Other manufacturers are proprietary and sell based on the features and benefits within their own system.
Some manufacturers charge their technology partners for access to their API and then make them abandon their own hardware. How can a system be open if an organization must abandon its own products and solutions? Even if that hardware is commonly used by many companies, is that system truly open? Some would call that “pay to play,” which is another form of a proprietary system.
What about when a company has to pay a fee to integrate to an API? Is that considered open?
Several organizations have partner programs established to manage the large number of companies that want to integrate with their technology. A nominal fee is charged to offset the costs associated with testing and certifying the integration. A fee is acceptable if both companies benefit from the integration, and marketing and technical support are provided.
Ultimately, an open platform can integrate and operate with any software once the API is provided. This new way of doing business means that even the biggest competitors could become technology partners if the end user chooses to install a system that way. Imagine partnering with your biggest competitor!
Progressive companies understand the importance of delivering an open platform to the market. They uncover new ways to drive revenue and create happy customers. Making your own hardware and software allows you to control what success looks like. Being open allows for others to inter-operate and provides more choice for end users.
The impact of PLAI
The Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) introduced the Physical Logical Access Interoperability (PLAI) spec in 2013.
This is an example of how the industry is committing to the idea of providing open solutions. PSIA supports licence-free standards and specifications, which are vetted in an open and collaborative manner with the security industry as a whole under the direction of its board of directors. Companies committed to PLAI have developed
“Progressive companies understand the importance of delivering an open platform to the market.”
adapters that provide a bridge that allows different physical access control systems to communicate with each other and share data. [Editor’s Note: AMAG Technology is a member of the PSIA and sells products that support ONVIF, including the Symmetry CompleteView VMS. For more on the PSIA, refer to the Q&A with executive director David Bunzel in the Aug/Sept edition of SP&T News.]
ONVIF benefits
ONVIF is an open industry forum that provides and promotes standardized interfaces for effective interoperability of a wide range of IP-based physical security products.
ONVIF lets end users select optimal products from any manufacturer without locking them into one system. Developers use the interface to integrate products from different vendors. A company must be a member to claim ONVIF conformance, and products must comply with at least one ONVIF profile. Using ONVIF conformant products helps future-proof an organization’s investment in their security system.
Integrations with other open systems
Installing an open system makes it easy to integrate different technologies into a security program. For example, a hospital may want to add licence plate recognition (LPR) software to its access control and video system. If it’s an open system, the LPR software will integrate so the security operator can use it as part of the company’s existing infrastructure.
It also provides more options for end users. If a customer chooses one system, and decides a few years later to change out the software, or head-end, they can do so at minimum cost. They can keep their existing hardware — controllers, readers, etc. — and install new software. While this isn’t ideal for manufacturers, it offers a selling point at the time of the sale and puts the customer at ease knowing they
could change software and not have to do a complete rip and replace.
Integrator benefits
Do integrators benefit from selling open systems to their customers? Absolutely.
When an integrator sells an open system, they are providing more options to their end users. Not only can they “sell” the idea of open and all the options that are available when an open system is installed, but they can profit from that growth. They can upsell different technologies as the system evolves and as the end user grows its security program.
If the customer is not happy with one component of their system, it is easy to replace. They can sell them a new component rather than perform a complete rip and replace, which is upsetting and expensive for the customer. An open system provides versatility, which shines a positive light on the integrator who can help them more easily solve their challenges.
End user benefits
As stated earlier, the primary benefit for an end user to choose an open system is to have more technology choices available at their fingertips. Security systems normally start out small, or as budget allows. As time goes by and more budget is allocated, systems grow. More cameras and doors are added to a system and often integrations with additional technologies, as new needs are uncovered. For example, a data centre may start out with access control and video, but as budget allows, an integration with an intelligent audio system or identity management system may be needed. Starting off with an open system makes adding new technologies simple and easy.
If an end user installs a system and decides after a few years that they don’t like the technology they originally chose, they can easily change it out to a different technology. They can keep their panels, readers and other hardware, but install new access control software. This is more economical than doing a complete rip and replace of a system.
Progressive manufacturers understand the importance of being open and will drive standards throughout the industry. Not only does it drive revenue, it satisfies the customer. From the manufacturer’s perspective, owning the hardware and software means manufacturers can control product upgrades and what success looks like. They do not have to depend on when third parties decide to upgrade their products. Integrators can sell the concept and profit from technology add-ons. End users have more choices in technology and more freedom to swap out or upgrade if needed.
Kim Rahfaldt is the director of media relations for AMAG Technology (www.amag.com)
How to combat cyber vulnerabilities in home automation
Convenience and comfort may be on the rise, but home owners could be exposed to hacks if the proper precautions are not taken
By Jon Williamson
When it comes to cyber security, the industry has been vocal about its commitment to best practices and education as it relates to video surveillance and access control solutions.
Integrators have become increasingly proactive to ensure they are delivering the best solutions possible, while simultaneously providing the highest level of security. While video systems have traditionally garnered much of the focus as it relates to cyber security, there’s a new kid on the block who is gaining much attention from hackers with malicious intent: home automation.
Home automation has become a convenient normality in residences across the world. While turning lights off and changing the temperature with the sound of one’s voice is a perk, smart homes are capable of so much more.
Automation improves daily lifestyle, but also provides a security solution accessible from anywhere. Users can keep an eye on their homes from their cell phones. They are able to check to make sure the kids get home safe or confirm their package is delivered. It is presented as a convenience and much of its implementation has revolved around that. Where there is convenience for end users, there is also convenience for hackers. By using devices that connect to the internet, there are inherent security risks.
During Upgrades by Using Existing Wire
• Network adaptors integrate previously installed audio intercom stations into newer intercom systems
• No need to pull new wire, making for quicker installations
• Easily replace aging master stations with a modern, compact, and feature-rich IX Series 2 master station
Do more than ever before.
The IX Series 2 is the most versatile, network-based, enterprise solution that integrates multiple security layers. Doors? Certainly. Emergency stations? Done. Mobile apps to empower roaming guards? You got it.
Plus, with relays and adaptors, what’s old (yet still working) can be integrated into a newer system with all of today’s modern designs and features.
All this with the quality and reliability you expect from Aiphone.
Want to see our IX Series 2 in person?
Come and visit us at Security Canada Central in Toronto, Ontario. We’ll be at booth 715! If you can’t catch us there, request a demo anytime online. aiphone.com/Demo_CA
It is the job of the security systems integrator to ensure their clients are protected.
Checking the boxes
The first thing integrators should do is make sure the system is encrypted. This probably seems obvious, but it is the first line of defence against potential threats. It is one of the best methods of safeguarding privacy. This is especially important when protecting people’s homes.
We live in a world of constant connectivity — whether through phone calls, emails, online purchases, or social media. Actions that seem innocent, such as setting up a recurring delivery for pet food, can actually pose some big threats.
Hackers are becoming increasingly interested in targeting homes because, unlike major corporations, most system users are not security professionals. IP-based systems in homes have not traditionally had the same level of security as those in the corporate world.
Home owners believe that once a system is set up, they are good to go. With the right integrator, and only after security measures have been implemented, this is the case. Without encryption in place, hackers can easily intercept online logins, banking information, and can discover schedule patterns for when doors are locked and unlocked, such as when people are home.
Gone are the days when passwords were enough to secure your life from intruders. Integrators need to encrypt everything to be sure cyber integrity is upheld.
The second thing integrators should do is set up multifactor authentication to validate the connection and be sure the data is only accessible by the homeowner. This protects data while simultaneously assuring that the homeowner is indeed the homeowner.
Hackers can guess passwords but the odds of them breaching multiple levels of authentication are slim. The more factors set in place, the lower the risk of an intruder gaining access to a private system. It is best to combat attacks before they happen, rather than wait for a system to be compromised. As the saying goes, it is not a matter of “if” a user will fall victim to a cyber-attack, but rather “when.” Multiple layers of security are a good practice to deter potential hackers.
Third, integrators need to be sure the system stays updated. If the system is not regularly updated with patches, then over time hackers will find new ways to infiltrate it. Just as humans need a new flu shot every year to protect against changing virus strains, security systems require the same level of routine maintenance. The industry is constantly evolving for the better. However, as fast as new technologies evolve, so do new hacking methods.
Why home systems now?
Hackers are always looking for soft targets. As big corporations and smaller businesses up their cyber security game, what better target than an unsuspecting home owner without an IT team at their disposal? Homes equipped with automation are being targeted because they have multiple devices that connect to the internet and, as we know, an internet connection means cyber vulnerabilities. The more devices a user has, the more vulnerable they are to cyber-attacks.
Wireless doorbells, keyless entry, digital thermostats, and lighting systems are a few of the ways hackers are gaining access to homes today. Because the systems in a home automation setting are controllable via Bluetooth or internet connection, it opens the door for hackers to use a seemingly innocent device, such as a wireless doorbell, as a point of entry. This allows them to then gain access into something of higher importance, such as a computer. From there, hackers can gain access to a user’s most private information, including banking information, passwords or lock/unlock schedules.
Once a hacker gains entrance to a home system, users fall vulnerable to cyber physical attacks. Cyber physical attacks occur when hackers are able to intrude over the wire/internet and enable an action such as disabling security systems then physically entering homes to steal or hack information directly rather than remotely. Home automation opens the
“Hackers are becoming increasingly interested in targeting homes because, unlike major corporations, most system users are not security professionals.”
door to new threats both literally and figuratively. Establishing baseline requirements when selecting vendors is the most necessary and responsible measure an integrator can take.
How do you choose a vendor?
Integrators can utilize best practice solutions, but one of the most important aspects of their job is the vendor selection process. By making sure the product has built-in security protocols, it alleviates the need to take additional steps and saves both the integrator and user time and money in the long run. Home owners are bringing experts in to simplify the process as much as possible. What simpler way than choosing products with outof-the-box capabilities?
Home owners who choose to implement home automation solutions do so with the understanding that it is easy, streamlined and risk free. Most people are not cyber security experts and in turn expect those they have contracting with to provide top-of-the-line service and recommendations. The challenge for integrators in this scenario is not in implementing best practices, but rather in choosing cameras and solutions that will ensure the maintenance of cyber security.
As in any market, manufacturers compete to provide the latest and greatest solutions, but often the race to be first leads to long-term issues. There is great pressure to make cutting edge solutions available. This idealized manufacturing timeline typically results in products that are not completely vetted. While some companies go about deployment in a mature way, by designing cameras with cyber security in mind from initial development, others position cyber as a second thought compared to functionality. In turn, system integrators must do their research to select cameras that include both functionality and security. Also, they must not be afraid to ask the supplier questions such as: Have they deployed a secure development lifecycle policy? Is communication encrypted? Why is your camera better than someone else’s? Integrators are advocates for their customers and should recognize that the latest solutions are not always the greatest.
Integrators should always think ahead and anticipate what might be a vulnerability in any system. While a low-cost device, such as a motion sensor outside the home, will save the user money, it can also enable some activity that could ultimately raise a risk for the homeowner.
In some instances, this can force both the integrator and the user to compromise. If you cannot trust the connectivity of a particular device that is costly, you may opt to use a less modern solution, such as wires, that uses technology that is not accessible from the internet. It is important to not just look for the cheapest solution, but to implement the one that will not raise the risk level for end users. Functionality, cost and security should be the three determining factors when creating a solution.
The future
Cyber-attacks are expected to increase, especially as home automation technology continues to evolve and becomes more readily available at a reasonable price.
Hackers do not care about someone’s business, livelihood, or peace of mind. It’s critical that security system integrators also ensure that home automation systems can exist in a way that will not pose a cyber security threat. Homes should be a safe haven, and it is the integrator’s job to keep it that way.
Jon Williamson is the director of cyber solutions for building technologies & solutions at Johnson Controls (www.johnsoncontrols.com).
H5SL Camera Line
The H5SL camera features wide and long-range lens variants that are available in a variety of resolutions for clear and detailed imaging. It is one of our easiest-to-install cameras, providing you with a simple, flexible and cost-effective security solution.
Multiple Lens Options
Choose from various lens types, including a new long-range lens that allows you to see with more clarity at farther distances.
Made in America
Made in America* using globally-sourced materials and North American expertise, Avigilon stands behind the quality of its H5SL cameras with a 5-year, industry-leading warranty.
Ease of Installation
Simple and intuitive to install, with a modular design that easily snaps into the base of your choice, helping you to get up and running in minutes.
Patented Bandwidth Saving Technology
Our HDSM SmartCodec™ technology helps you save on both storage and network bandwidth, helping keep internet connectivity costs down.
Product Previews CCTV
Medical-grade touchscreen
TRU-Vu Monitors
This new 21.5” Medical-Grade Touch Screen Display is certified to both UL 60601-1 Version 3.1, and IEC 60601-1. The MMZPTP-21.5G-X features a 21.5” screen with 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution, and super-wide 178˚ x 178˚ viewing angles. The P-Cap touch screen is highly resistant to false triggering, and provides multi-touch capabilities with up to 10 simultaneous touch points. It can be activated via bare fingers or surgical gloves. The zero-bezel, allglass front (with no side bezels) eliminates germ build-up, according to the company, making it a suitable choice for hospitals, in the O.R. and on medical carts, as well to control medical diagnostic systems and machines.
www.tru-vumonitors.com
Video appliance
Avigilon
The Third Generation High Definition Video Appliance is designed to reduce the cost and complexity of video security by simplifying deployment and maintenance. Its all-in-one solution includes an Avigilon Control Center (ACC) server, a managed network switch, a storage server and an ACC Client workstation for local video access. A flexible licensing structure provides the option to choose any edition and number of ACC licenses and pre-loaded video management software, helping to reduce the total cost of ownership for end-users. www.avigilon.com
Wall mount recorders
Speco Technologies
NR Series recorders are now available in wall mounts. The NRL is offered in 4 and 8 channels, and the NRP in 8 and 16 channels. Speco’s patented covert Wall Mount Recorder also protects video through a locked box. These recorders also include features such as: EZ Mobile setup via QR Code, EZ Search 2.0, New Intuitive GUI and real time recording up to 8MP. www.specotech.com
Multi-sensor cameras
Hanwha Techwin America
The company’s latest multi-sensor cameras feature motorized varifocal lenses for precise control of focal length, angle of view and zoom for each direction. Each sensor supports remote PTRZ (pan, tilt, rotate, zoom) control for efficient installation and easy adjustment. The 2MP PNM-9084RVQZ and 5MP PNM-9085RVQZ feature built-in IR illumination for each sensor while the PNM-9084VQZ is a compact and cost efficient four channel PTRZ camera. Multi-sensor cameras use less cable, conduit and mounting hardware and require fewer ports on the switch and VMS licences due to their single IP connection. Multi-sensor cameras have more pixels focused in each direction with a broad range of customizable angles and zoom settings per lens. All sensors feature up to 60fps per channel for smooth motion capture and up to 150dB WDR (wide dynamic range) for enhanced image quality and a suite of licence-free onboard analytics powered by Hanwha’s Wisenet 5 chipset. www.hanwhasecurity.com
Micro camera
Johnson Controls
The Pro 2MP Micro camera is suited for installations where a low-profile, high-performance surveillance camera is required. The Pro 2MP Micro includes a lens that can be placed up to 20 feet away from the power supply as well as wide dynamic range to balance scenes where bright backlighting can be a challenge. The Micro also operates at a minimum illumination of 0.01 Lux and thus facilitates low light performance without the need for IR illumination. The discrete form factor makes it an option for banking and ATM deployments. Additionally, the Pro Micro includes corridor mode for improved viewing in hallways. www.illustracameras.com
Outdoor dome camera LILIN
The MR6442X IP 4MP dome camera is suitable for demanding outdoor installations in challenging lighting conditions, such as schools, parking lots and sports stadiums. The camera’s features include 2.8 to 12mm Varifocal-Auto Iris Lens, 30-meter IR night vision, and built-in Sense up+ low light technology. Advanced motion detection, object counting and tripwire detection allows the camera to detect when an object or person has breached an area such as the entrance to a building or parking lot. The MR6442X is rugged — an IP67 waterproof rating qualifies it for outdoor perimeter protection. www.meritlilin.com
Micro dome camera IDIS
The DC-C4212RX 2MP micro dome camera, the latest addition to the company’s flagship DirectIP line up. The DC-C4212RX’s compact design makes it suitable for an understated installation. Measuring 3.39” x 2.28” and weighing 3.7oz, the DCC4212RX delivers a low profile. The 3-axis mechanical design and easy angle adjustment provides precise control of its area of coverage, enabling a wide range of installation locations and positions. The camera can also operate in challenging lighting conditions, capturing clear video with its true wide dynamic range (WDR); IR LED illumination up to 49.2ft, and auto day and night ICR.
www.idisglobal.com
Panoramic camera
Vivotek
The CC9381-HV H.265 180-degree panoramic anti-ligature fisheye network camera offers up to 30 fps at 2560x1920 (5MP) resolution with built-in IR illuminators up to 15 meters.CC9381-HV specifications and features also include: H.265 compression technology; 5-Megapixel CMOS sensor; Trend Micro IoT Security, weather-proof IP66-rated and vandal-proof IK10-rated housing and a ±25 degree tilt lens. www.vivotek.com
The purchase price for a portfolio of accounts may vary based on a number of factors, including: 1) Signed monitoring agreements; 2) Term of agreement; 3) Auto renewal of agreement; 4) Pre-authorized payment provision; 5) Credit scores; 6) Accounts receivables aging; and 7) Type of equipment installed (age, ability to service, system functionality).
Many of the smaller companies in the industry are motivated to sell their accounts or companies to not only ease the financial strain they may be under but also, in the case of a share sale, to avail themselves of the favourable enhanced capital gains tax under the capital gains exemption.
A share sale would typically result in a lower purchase price because the shares cannot be written off (amortized) against income by the purchaser, as is the case with the sale of accounts. However, the after-tax net purchase price to the seller may be greater. The purchaser may also be reluctant to purchase shares because of the heightened due diligence required to determine the veracity of the company’s assets and liabilities.
The seller of shares, being a “Canadian Controlled Private Corporation,” may be in a position to take advantage of the enhanced capital gain tax rate resulting in only 50% of the gain being taxable and when combined with each owners “lifetime capital gain exemption” of $866,912 may
monitoring agreements. A competing dealer has to advertise or employ door knockers to locate a reasonable ammount of thes customers. This is an expensive and difficult barrier to overcome. When compared to the complications and expense of luring a customer out of an existing monitoring agreement and trust relationship with the installing dealer, dealers opt to solicit the many households
b) Moderate lighting;
c) Change heating and cooling settings; and d) General interaction with their system.
Calling All Security Dealers
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Product Previews The latest in security technology
Real-time locating system
Senstar
Senstar announced a more compact version of its Flare Real-Time Locating System (RTLS) personal protection device (PPD), the PPD Compact. The Flare RTLS keeps staff working in high-threat environments safe by instantly identifying and locating personal duress alarms at the touch of a button. The new PPD Compact provides a smaller option for support and administrative staff. In the event of danger, the user activates the PPD which emits an RF signal that is detected by a network of sensor units concealed throughout the facility. www.senstar.com
Wireless lighting controls
Legrand
The Wattstopper Wireless DLM system builds on the original wired DLM system by extending its capabilities into IP-based wireless control. New wireless products include a dimming room controller, ceiling mount PIR occupancy sensor, corner mount PIR occupancy sensor, digital photosensor, dimming wall switch, and 5-button scene switch. Accompanying the hardware are the DLM Configuration app for Bluetooth-based commissioning and a new version of LMCS for project design and advanced system programming. Also included: enhanced versions of the wireless bridge and border router products. www.legrand.us/wirelessDLM
Panel touchscreen Qolsys
The next generation IQ Remote secondary touchscreen (part no. QW9104-840) for the IQ Panel has an all new form factor with improved Wi-Fi connectivity supporting 5GHz network connections. Additional improvements include a 120° wide-angle built-in 5MP camera, 8-core processor, revised backplate, table stand and power supply. The new IQ Remote launches with the current Qolsys 2.3 software, and up to three IQ Remotes can be paired directly to the IQ Panel 2 or the IQ Panel 2 Plus via Wi-Fi or using the IQ Panel Access Point. www.qolsys.com
Wireless access
Camden Door Controls
Kinetic by Camden is an advanced 900 Mhz. “power harvesting” wireless system that uses the energy created by the operation of the switch to power the wireless transmitter. There are no batteries to maintain or replace and no hazardous waste entering landfill. It features an ultra-compact receiver (easily installed in automatic door operator cabinets), with field selectable momentary, delayed or latching relay operation. The system is compatible with all brands of automatic door operators and is suited for both indoor and outdoor. It delivers door activation in any commercial, industrial and institutional application. www.camdencontrols.com
Visitor management AMAG Technology
Symmetry GUEST visitor management interactive touch screen kiosks automate all processes associated with the lifecycle of a visitor, streamlining the journey through the reception area, enforcing compliance and reducing operating costs. Users can eliminate paper logbooks and create an audit trail to manage visitors. Software and hardware come pre-installed. The Symmetry GUEST Kiosks come in three main designs (Countertop, Slim Wall Mount and Freestanding) and two colours (white or black) with custom branding options. Freestanding kiosks come with or without cabinet and printer. www.amag.com
Cable management options
Video Mount Products
VMP’s 27U and 42U cable management options for its floor rack enclosures are now available. According to VMP, ERENVCM-27 and ERENVCM-42 help keep all wire bundles organized and sorted. ERENVCM-27 and ERENVCM-42 are made out of durable ABS and steel with a removable front plate for easier mounting of cables. The 27U ERENVCM-27 mounts into VMP’s EREN-27, EREN-27E, and EREN-27E1K equipment rack enclosures, while the 42U ERENVCM-42 (MSRP: $159.00) mounts into VMP’s EREN-42E and EREN-42E1K equipment rack enclosures. www.videomount.com
Network horn speaker TOA Canada
The UC-4SC615 Network Horn Speaker supports various types of industrial standard network protocols such as ONVIF and SIP. Talk Communication between the speakers and the control room can now occur with the built-in-mic and onboard call button. The UC4SC615 assimilates with video management systems by supporting ONVIF. Using the supported SIP protocol, the speaker is able to receive a broadcast from a device to a single zone or a simultaneous broadcast to multiple speakers. www.toacanada.com
Single door controller
Continental Access
The uniVerse Series single-door controllers are now available in a surface-mount version, model CICP2100S. Suited for cinder block walls and other hard-to-wire surfaces, and used in a CA4K enterprise access control software environment, the CICP2100S Power Over Ethernet Controller, with locking metal enclosure, supports two ID readers and/or one low current strike via power over Ethernet (POE). CICP2100S’s 22-gauge CRS steel locking enclosure (9.18W x 5.4H x 2.1D”) includes 5 diagnostic ethernet LEDs, plus a power indicator. www.cicaccess.com
Weiser makes it easy to increase customer loyalty and position yourself as the core provider. If you already install security or home automation systems that are Zigbee or Z-Wave compatible, you’ll appreciate the easy installation and integration of Weiser Home Connect Locks.
Gain momentum in remote access and home automation as homeowners demand more from their primary solution providers.
Grow your business by building upon your existing services with Weiser.
