Editor’s Choice

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The new Odyssey X-BD from Texecom provides a complete dummy deterrent with flashing LEDs and backlit installer logo, so it looks & acts like a ‘live’ Bellbox/ Sounder.

Not only could it save installers time and money, it’s now easier than ever to enhance customers’ security systems with an external visual warning solution that ensures coverage can be seen by

potential intruders from any angle.

Key features include a full deterrent effect with flashing LEDs and backlit installer logo, backlit coverage and enhanced logo under backlight.

The unit also boasts and easy on/off cover, benefits from movable mounting positions and is available in the full range of Odyssey X series colour options. texe.com

Suprema has launched BioStation 3, a contactless access control terminal specialised for facial recognition.

In addition to facial recognition various other contactless credential options are offered to enhance user convenience, including QR codes, barcodes, mobile access cards and

RFID cards. BioStation 3 features increased usability and a compact, slim body that is reduced in size by 47% compared to

Suprema’s predecessor, FaceStation F2, allowing for easy installation on any door, from small offices to enterprise environments. Suprema has also utilised a Neural

Processing Unit (NPU) to provide facial authentication. BioStation 3 is an ISO/IEC 27001 certified edge device that can run AI algorithms locally with an embedded NPU to maximise the performance of the AI engine.

Accurate authentication is possible even for faces with various types and colours of masks, hairstyles, hats and glasses. One of the initiatives in protecting personal data is Face Template on Mobile which is an authentication method independently developed by Suprema that allows users to store and manage their facial authentication template on their mobile phone without having to store it in the company’s database.

2N has added new functionality to its devices by upgrading its OS. The improvements the upgrade delivers are designed to support flexible working and ensure that 2N’s devices can be used by the hard of hearing.

CBRE’s EMEA Occupier Survey 2022, published in May, concluded that only 6% of companies are currently requiring employees to return to the office on a full-time basis, with 72% saying thawt they are moving towards a ‘hybrid workplace’ model. Over 60% of companies are looking to increase the provision of mixed, shared or mobile work settings, with nearly 80% planning to downscale dedicated assigned seating. This change has led more and more companies to re-consider the viability of a ‘traditional’ receptionist, a person sitting on the front desk for the full working day to oversee access into the building.

In response, the new 2N OS enables bidirectional video through the 2N IP Style intercom. This allows visitors to see the person they are talking to as well as vice versa, which is of particular value for buildings which decide to go without a dedicated reception. Bidirectional video is also a response to the growing demand for inclusivity in device functionality, as it allows the hard of hearing to communicate using sign language.

NOTE: All technical specifi cations listed are provided by manufacturers

ASSET-WE from Pyronix is a discreet and easy install accelerometer device that offers protection for highvalue and treasured belongings. At 25mm wide and featuring aesthetic slimline plastics, the device is nano in size and suited to commercial and residential use. It can be enclosed inside or hidden out of sight on items, such as cash boxes and tills, jewellery boxes, bags, vases, paintings, televisions, electronic items and more, to provide security and protection if an item is moved or opened.

The security industry is busy and complex, so it’s easy to miss new products and services as they get lost in day-to-day activities. Every now and again, certain products grab our attention so here we take a look at a few of the products we think you won’t want to miss this month. NVR series capable of working with 8K images

Hikvision has unveiled NVRs that support video recording, storage, transferring, decoding and output of up to 8K images. The new M-series NVRs are ideal for environments where a wide field of view, and high image resolution is needed.

The NVRs are equipped with an 8-core 64-bit SOC chip and DDR4 memory kits, which provide full guarantee for “True 8K” functionalities. Enabled with dynamic cache technology, the devices are able to adjust the cache required by each channel as per highconcurrency and high bit rate video stream.

Featured with a codec core that supports up to 32x 1080p @ 30fps, the devices can efficiently decode 8K real-time streams for two channels at the same time, enabling smooth live view and playback. The new series adopts the HDMI2.1 interface, which supports an output resolution as high as 8K (7680×4320)/30HZ.

The new FireProtect 2 lineup from Ajax includes, at launch, seven models of fire detectors. The re-engineered detectors feature a patented smoke chamber that is ultimately dustproof and impenetrable for insects, thermistors that ensure rapid detection of temperature spikes, long-lasting battery life, and many accompanying hardware and software improvements.

The FireProtect 2 lineup features detectors of two enclosure types. Depending on size, they are equipped with different sensor combinations. Detectors with a bigger enclosure feature a smoke chamber plus a temperature sensor, and an advanced version also features a CO sensor. The smaller ones have no smoke chamber and feature up to two sensors: a sole temperature sensor, a sole CO sensor or both “under the hood”.

Detectors have different battery options. The RB models feature replaceable batteries that provide up to 7 years of operation and SB models work 10 years from sealed batteries (can’t be replaced, require entire detector replacement).

There is no need to disassemble the detector during installation. With an upgraded SmartBracket panel, an installer can effortlessly fix the detector and level it at 90 – degree angles after mounting.

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What’s in the box? Lock unit Interior and exterior lever handles Mounting plate Strike plate and screws Misc. gaskets plates and fixings Batteries Allen keys Installation instructions This CL4500 GD lock is described as a “medium duty, electronic patch lock offering all the benefits of Codelocks’ Smart Technology”. “Suitable for inswing doors, the lock fits existing Rondo type glass door preparations”. The lock is supplied with a standard strike for solid door frames or an optional glass door strike box for use with Rondo prepared glass side panels can be purchased. This makes it ideally suited to offices, meeting rooms and hired spaces.

The lock is operated using keypad entry and / or RFID cards and with a key override. No wiring is required and a two year guarantee is standard.

The removable cylinder is encased in a zinc alloy housing with a brushed steel finish. Various parts are included in the package to position and secure the lock to the glass door. The door can be from 8 to 15mm thick and may be left or right hung. A useful YouTube video is available to run through the details.

Removing the back plate of the assembly that is held in place by 4 x M4 cross-head screws gives access to the two battery holders. These hold the 4 x LR1 size N, 1.5v batteries that are series connected. Once fitted the unit is ready for fitting to the door and programming.

The external handle freely moves when the lock is not activated. Entering a valid 4-digit key code or presenting a programmed card triggers an internal clutch that engages with the latch actuator and allows the door to be opened. The keypad emits a blue flash and double beep for a valid entry or a red flash and longer beep for an invalid entry or card presentation.

The lock is supplied with two override keys that can be used to open the lock at any time. These can be supplied “keyed alike” if required.

The lock is quickly programmed using the numeric keypad and a range of simple commands.

The keypad has 12 buttons consisting of the usual 0 to 9 telephone format layout, with * and # keys completing the set. The * key is reserved for certain programmes and when using NetCodes and the # key is used for programming the device.

An initial 8-digit factory-set master code is used to access the device, and this must be changed after installation.

The major programmable options are selected by pressing the # key followed by the master code and then the program number; in between each section entered, the keypad will flash blue once (·) to confirm input and twice (··) at completion. A red flash indicates incorrect entry. The available options include: 01· to 03·· – to change the Master and SubMaster codes, and delete the Sub-Master. 04·· – Code Free mode setting. 05·01· to 05·04· suspend or restore individual or all, code-free periods. 06· – change the re-lock delay time. Enter a time from 02 to 30 seconds (default is 5 seconds). 07·· – Emergency Open cancellation. 08·01·· to 08·02·· – disable / enable the locked status indicator. The red LED will flash every 5 seconds (reduces battery life). 10· to 12· – update the Time & Date, DST months and DST hour on the lock. 13·· – feature restrictions. Follow with a zero or 1 for User codes, Smart Cards and NetCodes respectively. 14·0·· to 14·2·· – disable / timed / enable keypad illumination. Off by default, amber backlight when buttons pressed. 15·1·· to 15·2·· – Lock-Down / Cancel. Only the Master and Sub-master codes can unlock the door. 20·1· to 20·4· – Add code or Card Client. Enter code or present card as appropriate. 21· and 22· – Suspend / Restore a Code client. 25· and 26· – delete a single / all Code client(s). 27· and 28· – Set / Suspend / Restore Active Periods for specific or all clients. 29·1· to 29·2· – enable / disable selected day lock out. 52· – Block a specific NetCode. 60· – Enable a Guest Code

It is important to ensure you enter twodigit codes where necessary such as for the lock delay time, but any incorrect entry will be clearly identified by a red led flash. The programming and operating instructions give clear examples of each code entry.

More flexible programming is enabled using the K3 Connect app that can be downloaded for www.psimagazine.co.uk

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iOS and Android devices from the relevant app stores.

Downloading and using the app requires registration and acceptance of the associated Privacy and Terms of Service agreements. These include references to the fact that your personal information may be transmitted and stored in territories other than where you are located or potentially in other jurisdictions where there is no privacy protection available. These are referenced to Taiwanese law. As with all such software a cautious approach to allowing access is advisable.

When synchronising the lock with the K3 Connect app, the lock will capture the time from the managing mobile device.

In addition to lock management, the app can be used to e-mail access permissions to other users of the app. These can be very closely controlled to be valid from a specific time & date and duration.

The “Locks” tab shows any paired locks and access information, logs and synchronisation options. The “Clients” list shows all cards and user number in alphabetic order. The User pins are shown unless a nickname is added in which case this is displayed instead.

The lock is very easy to operate and programme. There is a possibility of number repetition if the button is pressed for too long a duration, so a quick press of each button is advisable.

Mobile phone access requires the app to be loaded onto each user’s mobile device and Bluetooth to be enabled so that permissions can be communicated.

The reader can handle up to 150 smart cards (MIFARE Classic 13.56MHz), 100 phone clients and 100 User codes.

If three incorrect codes are entered the keypad will be disabled for approximately 10 seconds to deter repetitive entry attempts.

Up to ten code-free periods can be set. These allow the door to remain unlocked for a set period on any specified day of the week, for example 9:30 to 17:00 Monday to Friday.

A full Factory default can be performed by disconnecting the batteries and reconnecting with a specific key entry.

Battery life is stated to be around 10,000 operations; a low-battery warning is given when these need changing.

A simple to install, flexible door lock system for glass doors, supported by good installation, programming and user documentation.

NOTE: This PSI Product Test was carried out by an independent third party, not editorial staff. The manufacturer had no input in the review or the final result

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Pros: • Lightweight unit with a discrete design, with the option of colours and special order requirements for those application requiring particular aesthetics • POE compatible • Reliable and encrypted data transmission • Free SilverView monitoring software • Affordable wireless transmission

Cons: • No additional brackets available for purchase, the only brackets available fit a maximum of 3”/75mm pole • Lack of installation specific and configuration literature

With the Micro PCP clients can build up stable Point to Point or Point to MultiPoint outdoor wireless broadband access systems for “Last mile access” at low cost. The Micro range is used in CCTV and data networks extensively where reliability and ease of installation is paramount.

The overall build quality of the product is good. It is light weight meaning that installation on a pole or similar structure will have a reduced sway as the unit does not have much weight to it. It is a simple looking product with 3 indication LEDs on the bottom of the unit – which is beneficial allowing for indication of connection and troubles without the requirement of having to arrange direct assess to the device.

The product comes in two colours – white and carbon black, but special requests can be made through SilverNet to suit a specific application that requires aesthetics. The cable entry is on the bottom of the unit which is supplied with a tight fitting stuffing gland to endure a water tight fit.

The 3-axis bracket provided is constructed of a light weight, heavy duty magnesium alloy, which works well for most applications and can be pole mounted on a 3”/75mm pole or wall mounted but if the required mounting surface is a larger pole style, a larger bracket in not available for purchase on the website.

NOTE: This PSI Product Test was carried out by an independent third party, not editorial staff. The manufacturer had no input in the review or the final result

Installation of the radio units are simple due to the POE based connection. This can either be achieved by POE injector which is supplied or through the use of a POE switch. As this device will typically be used in an outdoor setting, consideration of external rated CAT6 cable must be made, SilverNet have pre-sized leads available for purchase to aid with installation.

SilverNet has free monitoring and configuration software available for download on their website that will allow you to monitor your connections and throughput, link quality, and the ability to test multiple data streams to ensure a quality installation. This software is simple and user friendly and during the testing process we didn’t come across any major issues with this software and found it to be very helpful in monitoring the connections between radio units.

The radio is advertised as a 2km range device with a 100Mbps throughput as standard on this model but with the ability of licence key upgrades to 240Mbps/500Mbps throughput. During testing, the unit was set up on the coast across an approx. distance of 650m connected to two IP fixed lens IP cameras and one IP PTZ camera. The throughput via the gigabit ethernet interface worked great over that distance with minimum disruptions on image quality and telemetry on windy and days of heavy rain. The high mean time between failures (MTBF) built into the product meant that it stayed reliable throughout testing of the product and made it a very suitable wireless transmission medium for this application.

For those worried about secure connection when using wireless transmission, the 5Ghz frequency transmission is encoded with 256bit AES encryption meaning that any data transmitted across this network will be difficult to obtain.

This specific product lends itself very well for video surveillance applications with the ability to transmit reliable video data and telemetry across a distance for a very reasonable price. If there is a requirement for utilising these units for extending a network across buildings, then it would be suggested that the licence key for software upgrade for throughout is purchased and set up or the larger transmission units are used, but for most surveillance applications the 100Mbps throughput should be sufficient. www.psimagazine.co.uk