The appeal of the Cloud

CLOUD

Martyn Ryder, VP Sales and Marketing at Morphean, talks to PSI about how the cloud can help security businesses unlock smarter and more profi table ways of operating in the current climate

Digitalisation is changing everything. We now live in a world where cloud infrastructure and the exchange of information through data centres underpins the very fabric of modern society. This is further enhanced by the IoT; connecting and communicating with other devices and systems over the internet and/or private networks, and AI; using data to augment human decisionmaking processes.

When it comes to physical security capabilities, digital transformation has ushered in a new era of hosted security platforms that eclipse the limited capabilities of legacy, analogue systems to offer a wealth of benefits.

Yet physical security businesses have been slow to adopt cloud, often staying within their comfort zone by continuing to offer more traditional security systems. As a consequence, they have not been able to pass the benefits provided by intelligent cloud-enabled systems on to customers. Now, with the opening up of the global economy after Covid leading to huge pressure on supply chains, and a cost-of-living crisis with inflation and energy prices running at their highest rates in decades, companies across Europe that are clinging to traditional business models will have many hurdles to face. This all amounts to an urgent need for security businesses to rethink how they operate and look for ways to work smarter. Migrating to cloud holds the answer.

Moving to a SaaS revenue model means that customers are charged per device per month, allowing contracts to be leveraged as a sustainable revenue source. The ongoing relationship with the end-user opens up an avenue to upselling more features, with applications such as people counting, AI intrusion detection and virtual concierge providing a continuous revenue stream and meeting evolving customer needs. In addition, the ability to carry out remote maintenance simplifies delivery and ultimately saves money.

In contrast, a traditional security system typically requires large upfront investment from the customer, with the addition of recurring costs for video backups, system updates, Physical security businesses have been slow to adopt cloud, often staying within their comfort zone by continuing to offer more traditional security systems

With critical functions such as banking, client management (CRM) and email systems all being delivered through the cloud, it’s only natural for firms to migrate their video surveillance and access control to more efficient and compliant platforms. Getting to grips with cloud physical security means understanding the benefits of software-as-a-service (SaaS), the revenue model of cloud, and the advantages for customers of solutions such as video surveillance as-aservice (VSaaS) and access control as-a-service (ACaaS) over more traditional methods of securing premises, assets and people.

By broadening the scope of products and services offered, the calibre of future projects can be improved, and, ultimately, the way security businesses operate can be changed for the better. With skills shortages and recruitment challenges adding increasing pressure, the migration to cloud can actually lead to better use of current resources, the mitigation of rising salary costs and the multiplying of revenue streams. But first it’s essential to build knowledge of this new world and to fully understand how to make use of the opportunities it presents.

CLOUD

With cloud, a skilled professional can set up systems remotely from their own premises for a number of customers, completing several jobs in the time that it would take to set up just one system

manual server maintenance and the energy use associated with running and cooling servers. In addition, the value of the technology continues to depreciate, becoming redundant after a lifespan of as little as 5-8 years, and requiring a whole new system to remain sufficiently protected.

A cloud solution, maintained by hardware upgrades and software updates, facilitates simple plug-and-play capabilities so that components can be easily upgraded or scaled to meet the fluid, dynamic requirements of the modern business, and to keep the system current. Customers only pay for what they need, when they need it, making cloud more affordable and representing real value for money. For the security business, making the switch to cloud represents recurring revenue and more predictable budgeting.

As physical security continues to evolve, customers will increasingly seek solutions that fit their industry-specific requirements which will often include the streamlining and automation of security and also the optimisation of business processes. Cloud allows insights to be unlocked from visual data that would otherwise be invisible to the human eye. With a dedicated platform that can be accessed from any computer or mobile device, decision makers, armed with meaningful metrics based on real-time data about their company operations, can make more informed decisions.

From the perspective of the physical security business, migrating to cloud allows them to deliver a solution that meets the evolving needs of the customer while representing significant savings and better use of people and resources within their own business. Often, the shortage of workers results in highly paid, highly skilled engineers being employed to carry out simple tasks. With cloud, a skilled professional can set up systems remotely from their own premises for a number of customers, not only saving money on fuel but also completing several customer jobs in the time that it would take to set up just one system at a client’s site. More business is sold and deployed faster, representing a better return on the salary investment of the individual.

In order to unlock the full value of cloud, businesses will need to enlist the services of security practitioners who understand the converging world of physical security, cloud platforms and the capabilities of networks, systems and software. Innovative technology, partnership and collaboration can help companies operate much smarter and more securely. For security businesses, developing knowledge and understanding of the cloud and how it functions opens up a world of wideranging possibilities based around the very latest innovations.

A trusted partnership between likeminded companies across the supply chain can create joint business growth through the reselling of a wider range of security products based on the SaaS model. And as customers increasingly carry out due diligence to determine the integrity of vendor, technology and supply chain, so security professionals who seek partnerships built upon high levels of trust are much more likely to achieve long-term success.

The challenges facing businesses are not going to dissipate any time soon, and continuing to do the same is not going to alter the outcome for the security business. Limiting negative impact requires creative thinking. It’s clear that cloud physical security will become the default setting for video surveillance in the professional security industry; positioned as not just business security, but rather a business opportunity.

REVIEWS

An overview of some of the products we have featured in PSI independent test reports over recent months. Manufacturers and distributors have no input in the testing or the final results so you can rest assured that these are genuine reports and not based on external influences.

Bosch – Flexidome NDE-3503-AL

Part of the Bosch Flexidome IP 3000i IR range, this fixed dome camera is impact resistant to IK10 with IP66 protection rating and has a 1/2.9” 5MP CMOS sensor, 3.2 to 10mm motorised lens and a range of “Essential” video analytic functions. It has a diameter of 137mm and height of 122.5mm. It has an operating temperature of 30°C to +50°C. Review: A very capable dome camera with a wide range of configuration options. Score: 8.5/10

IDIS – DC-S6283HRXL

The DC-S6283HRXL dome is an external IP66, IK10 rated, 1/2” CMOS 2MP Lightmaster PTZ ONVIF compliant dome with 36 times zoom lens and long range IR capability. Review: A well featured PTZ dome with simple setup, excellent optical performance and enhanced IR illumination. Score: 8/10

Uniview – IPC2325EBR5-DPZ

Promoted as a 5MP WDR Starlight Varifocal IP67 network bullet camera, the unit is based on a 1/ 2.7” sensor with a 2.7 to 13.5mm auto-focus motorized zoom lens giving a horizontal angle of view from 93.28° to 28.56°.

Review: A versatile solidly built external bullet camera with a wide range of configuration settings. The security settings allow the camera to be suitably locked-down but the lack of a forced “strong” password is a concern; perhaps a future firmware update will remedy this. Score: 8/10

3xLogic – VX-VT-56

The 3xLogic VX-VT-56 is an IP66 bullet style external thermal camera with a 56° horizontal field of view. It has motion detection including video content analysis and temperature alarm capabilities built in. Review: A very compact thermal bullet camera that is straightforward to install and set up. t is capable of detecting scene intrusion and creating alarms regardless of light levels and weather conditions. A variety of specialist analytics is included. Score: 8/10

SMOKE DETECTION

Hikvision – ColorVu DS-2CD2087G2-LU

This IP67, 8MP bullet camera is from the Hikvision ColorVu range. It is designed for 24-hour colour imagery with warm-white visible LED illumination support for zero light scenes. A wide 2.8mm lens version is standard with 4mm and 6mm options. Review: An extremely sensitive 8MP high-resolution camera with advanced detection capabilities, 24-hour colour capability and a wide range of security features. Score: 9/10

Tyco – Illustra Multi Sensor Dome

The Illustra Flex multi-sensor camera provides four 4MP camera views from a single location over a single network cable using just one IP address. The IP66 cameras can be flexibly positioned within the housing for full 360° coverage. Review: An interesting approach to the provision of multi-camera highly detailed wide-angle views from a single housing with straightforward installation and configuration. Score: 8/10

Oncam – C-12 Indoor

This internal 360° view camera designed for ceiling or wall mounting, is based on a 12MP sensor and provides a fisheye image with a wide range of configuration options. Review: A very powerful compact fisheye view camera compatible with a wide range of video management systems with simplicity of installation and good support documentation. Score: 8.5/10

Dahua – TiOC 2.0

The DH-IPC-HDW3549H-AS-PV-S3 is a 5MP full-colour fixed-focal eyeball WizSense network camera. It is the latest in the company’s TiOC (three- in-one camera) line which integrates 24/7 full-colour monitoring, active deterrence and AI into one solution. Review: A very capable Eyeball style dome that has a wide range of features to help detect and deter intruders, with extensive cyber security settings. When used with the Dahua Smart NVR, the camera supports intelligent search capabilities. Score: 8.5/10

Wisenet – PNM-C7083RVD

The PNM-C7083RVD multi-directional camera is a dual dome device that provides two 2MP views that can be individually set to suit locations while requiring only one network lead. The cameras provide AI object classification analytics and low light operation. They are

IP66 & NEMA4X environmentally rated with an IK10 impact protection rating.

Review: An impressive and very flexible dual camera unit that is easy to install, configure and maintain. Score: 9/10

TRIED & TESTED

Hikvision – AX Pro

The AX Pro can be purchased as a kit or individual components. The reviewed system was a DS-PWA96-Kit1-WE kit with the seven parts as listed. It is a wireless Grade 2 alarm system that can be used stand-alone or integrated into a management system. Additional modules are available to link to home automation products and systems. The DS-PWA96-M-WE panel supports up to 32 areas and 96 zones. Review: A compact wireless alarm system with extended battery duration and flexible remote management. The product is well suited to central monitoring with a range of protocols supported. A reasonably wide and increasing range of detector types with scope for integration with home-automation systems. Score: 8.5/10

Pyronix – MCEXTERNAL-WE

This tamperproof and weatherproof contact extends perimeter protection applications to securing sheds, garages, gates etc, with remote voice push notification alerts via the smart device apps, HomeControl2.0 and ProControl+. Featuring an IP66 rating, this discreet and versatile Grade 2 device is described as easy to fit and calibrate.

Review: The product is constructed very well. The casing is made of a hard polycarbonate with a deep grey (anthracite) finish which makes the door contact look great. The overall performance of the product did not disappoint during testing as it managed to maintain a high signal strength at all times as well as being very responsive. Score: 8.5/10

Ajax – MotionCam Outdoor

The Ajax MotionCam Outdoor is an IP 55 rated combined external PIR sensor with inbuilt capture camera for use with the latest Ajax Hubs that support visual verification. The detector has settings for the image resolution and number of pictures sent on alarm. After dark the unit has two high-intensity infrared LEDs to provide illumination for the camera’s monochrome mode. Review: A very simple to install and manage, extended battery life external PIR detector for Ajax based Hub 2 systems, with the advantage of visual verification. Score: 9/10

Eaton – i-on10 KP

The i-on Compact Security System is a Grade 2 wired intrusion detection panel with 10 zones and up to 10 users and 4 keypads. It is promoted as being suitable for simple, entry-level burglar alarm systems to protect homes and small commercial installations. Review: A straightforward and engineer friendly grade 2 wired alarm system with a wide range of configuration options and simplicity of installation. Good documentation is supplied with the product. Score: 9/10

CSL – MiniAir 2

MiniAir 2 is a single-path signalling solution that utilises a 4G/LTE-M path to signal an alarm from a protected premises to an ARC. It comes with a standby SIM as a backup to safeguard the system, if the active SIM fails.

Review: The product overall is great. It is a perfect solution to the PSTN switch over/off as it means that existing systems that rely solely on PSTN signalling can continue to do so without the expense of upgrading the customers control equipment. Score: 9/10

Texecom – Capture

RISCO – LightSYS+

Capture motion detectors are intended for use in a wide variety of professional security applications. With a choice of EN Grade 2 wired or wireless connectivity, wall or ceiling mounting, and a choice of detection technologies including dual element, quad element or dual technology sensing, Capture suits a wide variety of security environments. Review: The ease of connection with a range of switchable, built-in EOL resistor values simplifies the installation process. The potential for device branding will likely be appealing to independent installers. Score: 9/10

The LightSYS+ is an alarm system that can be configured for Grade 2 or Grade 3 systems and supports up to 32 partitions, 512 zones and 500 users. It is structured around an RS485 bus architecture and is supported by a wide range of optional modules including GSM 2G, 3G and 4G, Audio messaging, Listen & Speak units, and VUpoint IP cameras for visual verification Review: A comprehensive alarm system which can be configured for small to large, single or multiple occupancy installations in residential, retail, or small to large commercial business properties. Score: 8.5/10

Videoloft – Cloud Adapter 8

The Videoloft Cloud Adapter 8 is an eight channel bridging device which equips new and legacy video surveillance systems with Videoloft’s offsite cloud video solution.

Review: It is a very cost effective solution for those looking to update existing systems, upgrade the overall storage solution, or wanting to connect independent cameras to a recording and viewing platform without the need for a recorder or controller. Score: 8.5/10

Wisenet – TID-600R

The Wisenet TID-600R is a compact IP65, IK08 intercom unit featuring a 1/2.8” 2MP camera with a very wide viewing angle and infrared support up to 5 metres. It supports SIP 2.0 connection, has a touchless call option, edge storage and ONVIF compliance. It measures 165(h) x 49(w) x 48(d) cm with a weight of 490g. Review: This is an impressive SIP 2.0 intercom unit that can be used in a wide range of situations especially in healthcare, where the touch-free method to initiate a call reduces infection risks. The HD camera and its event recording options can provide excellent evidential

2N – IP Style

This video intercom features a 10”touch display boosted by the Axis ARTPEC-7 processor, full-HD camera and WaveKey technology. The unit is rated IP65 and IK08, meaning that users can touch the display even if there is any water on its surface. Review: The unit is easily customisable depending on the project, with ability to customise each resident if used in a domestic setting, and importing business logos and grouping for businesses in a commercial setting – a very elegant solution and great addition to the outside of any building. Score: 8.5/10

APPLICATIONS

360 Vision Technology has confirmed the rollout of its TX Direct, wireless static IP address PTZ cameras, across Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset.

Deployed across areas popular during hours of night-time economy, but not yet covered by the fixed cable North Somerset CCTV system, TX Direct cameras have been installed by Select Electrics, primarily to protect areas identified where women may be vulnerable when heading home after evenings out.

With funding from the Government backed Safer Streets Fund, currently ten TX Direct wireless cameras have been installed to help tackle a mix of safety issues. Located at points along popular routes out of the town centre and a local car park, the new 360 Vision TX Direct cameras are now in service and making a positive impact on street safety.

Offered alongside the existing wireless TX camera range, 360 Vision TX Direct camera technology provides seamless, direct ONVIF integration into Video Management Systems (VMS), rather than via a hosted server or thirdparty software. This installation flexibility meant that camera locations for each of the individual cameras could be prioritised without the constraints of ‘line-of sight’ or problematic cable routing associated with traditional fixed cable dependant camera video transmission methods.

Providing 1080p, 25fps, 2048 kbps, CVBR images, the TX Direct cameras enabled Select Electrics to easily add and set-up new surveillance cameras beyond the coverage of existing hardwired CCTV cable infrastructure, and as a cost-effective alternative to using expensive leased fibre networks. Furthermore, unlike other wireless transmission solutions, TX Direct cameras drive down the cost-of ownership even further, as the wireless camera is supplied ‘license free’, meaning there are no recurring fees to pay.

Using 4/5G networks for CCTV connectivity has traditionally been limited due to the lack of large data cellular connections with a static IP address, which is required to access and control the camera. Traditional rapid deployment systems either record locally with footage downloaded as required, or their data streams are highly compressed and frame rates are reduced to cut down on expensive data usage. A typical traditional static IP address solution will consume 20Gb of data at best per month. If streamed live and uncompressed, this allowance would be used in less than a day! With its fixed IP address, TX Direct offers North Somerset a viable alternative, delivering data allowances of 1000Gb and above, allowing cameras to be streamed 24/7 back to a central monitoring location, with minimal installation time and no adverse impact on infrastructure.

“Up until recently the cost of transmission using a SIM card has been financially prohibitive to most councils and authorities,” says Chris Harrison, CCTV Manager, Corporate Services, North Somerset Council. “Our yearly transmission costs with the 360 TX Direct solution are just £480 per year, just a fraction of the cost of the SIM alternative or rented fibre-optic solution. Wireless is cheaper, but its coverage is limited to an unusable amount. With 360 TX Direct, whatever the mobile network used, there is always over 95% coverage.”

Contract awarded to review and deliver security

Evolution has been appointed by Goldsmiths, University of London to review its security systems and managing ongoing maintenance.

The university has an on-site security team, which monitors CCTV and security systems from the control room, as well as a team of over 40 guards that patrol the campus. Due to a high level of faults and costly service call outs, the security team sought a new security partner that could provide a higher level of service and account management and help reduce the number of unnecessary and avoidable engineer visits through improved maintenance. Evolution has taken over the maintenance of the university’s access control, CCTV, and intruder alarm systems – with more than 500 doors, 200 cameras and 50 alarm panels across the campus. Evolution systems engineer, Will Leung, has been employed as resident site engineer from Monday-Friday. As well as providing on-site maintenance services, Will is also working with the Goldsmiths team to produce a review of all existing systems and to provide cost effective support ideas and recommendations including the introduction of new technologies and phasing out legacy assets.

In addition, Evolution is providing a bespoke and detailed training programme for the Goldsmiths team to upskill and ensure all staff are proficient with all systems and software and feel supported in their role.

APPLICATIONS

The Piazza Lucio Dalla square hosts a range of events and entertainment for people of all ages, including concerts, theatre performances, street food and children’s workshops. The new space is also a meeting point that can be used in all weathers thanks to the canopy designed by architect Renato Bernardi in the 1950s.

As part of the restoration, the city authorities realised the need for a video surveillance system that could monitor the square in all conditions, morning and night. Wisenet Q Series PTZ cameras were installed across the square, with pan, tilt, and zoom cameras chosen to move easily across the square when investigating an event or tracking a person of interest. The cameras provide up to 23x optical zoom, with IR LED to monitor images clearly in low light conditions. They can identify objects up to 100 metres away in Full HR resolution. The cameras also come with built-in analytics, including motion detection, directional detection, virtual line, enter/exit, and tampering, to allow more accurate control by the authorities and the operators.

The system integrates with Genetec Security Center Video Analysis, and video feeds are monitored by the local police operational centre.

Comune di Bologna is currently undergoing a digital transformation as part of the local Digital Agenda. “It was important that we implemented the right technology as part of the restoration of Piazza Lucio Dall. The Wisenet cameras play an important role in keeping people using the busy piazza safe and secure, but also integrate with other systems, including Genetec’s, to improve collaboration across departments and agencies. It also gives us greater options for exploring future integrations - as the Settore innovazione digitale e dati initiative includes IoT and 5G technologies” explains Ing. Alberto Nuzzo, Head of Office 'Digital Infrastructure' presso Comune di Bologna.

Chiswick Works is a collaborative community workspace based in Southwest London. It is managed by X+Why, who offer flexible daily passes for collaborative workspaces and short or long-term memberships for dedicated offices.

The management team at X+Why needed to modernise the outdated and varied access control systems across their UK sites. Their overall aim is to have a centralised system that can be remotely managed from any of their locations across the country. This will enable greater convenience for and flexibility for their customers and simplicity for their site managers when granting access.

Currently at Chiswick Works, they have 50 doors, and 117 active members requiring varying levels of access, depending on the type of membership they have with X+Why.

Trey Nelson-Campbell, Community Manager for X+Why, is overseeing the implementation of Paxton10, a combined access control and video management system. Trey explained: “The most important thing we wanted with the new system was for our clients to have the best possible service and experience, whilst not feeling restricted. I see many of them lose access cards regularly and get stuck outside the building or their office. We were looking at security systems that will help to eradicate this problem as it takes up so much time re-issuing access cards.”

The X+Why team also wanted their new solution to provide remote management technology so that all the sites they manage across the UK could be linked to a single system. As each site is upgraded, they require the ability to add them for simple multi-site administration. This also provides an additional benefit to members, as they can be permitted access to any X+Why building without the need to obtain an access card or key fob for each site.

To achieve their objectives, X+Why contracted Ambush Security Systems to undertake the installation of Paxton10 across all sites, starting with Chiswick Works.

Sam Rodway, Ambush’s Technical Sales Director explained: “I knew of Paxton10 and the benefits of the system from installations in other buildings. It is the perfect solution for X+Why with their long-term plans across multiple sites, and the way their clients will be interacting with the access control system.

“For a collaborative workspace it is just the ideal solution. It is the only system I know of that enables the use of a smartphone or smartwatch as access tokens, that can be setup and emailed to the user quickly and easily.”

Ambush Security Systems installed a centralised Paxton10 Server which will eventually control access across all the sites X+Why manage. This server can operate up to 1000 doors across 100 sites, making it a cost-effective and truly scalable use of hardware. Alongside the server, they installed Paxton10 Slimline Readers on all 50 internal doors, and keypad readers on the main front entrance as well as a bike shed which connects to the main building, providing further flexibility with access via PIN/code.

APPLICATIONS

Infrastructure and security for regenerated and growing town

Axis Communications has supported its long-term partner NW Security Group in delivering a security solution, protecting people, premises and assets as part of a town regeneration project. The solution has been designed to meet the evolving requirements of Whitehill & Bordon town as it undergoes a complete transformation into a sustainable, healthy and connected town that is a safe place to work and live.

This project showcases the smart-city capabilities of modern security solutions where, rather than being used for security alone, they become woven into the very fabric of a development. A setup of multiple cameras and IP audio devices helps to deter criminal activity and prevent violence, while supporting the aims of Whitehill & Bordon to become more connected through the use of IP audio, analytics and a live camera for the streaming of events. The technology can also be used to gather intelligence about the use of facilities, helping to guide further development which will take place in phases over a 15-year period.

The project saw 200 hectares of land redeveloped to include 2,400 homes and a town centre. The opportunity to install modern technology from the outset saw the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company turn to NW Security Group to design and install a system utilising Axis technology, offering centralised management capabilities while being highly scalable to keep pace with the town’s evolution.

Chris Manning, Project Manager at the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, explains: “We had a unique opportunity here to put the right technology in place from the beginning. ”

The whole solution has been built from the ground up with cybersecurity considerations front and centre. People-counting capabilities provide business intelligence about the use of the town’s facilities, while also helping to keep people safe during the town’s many events. The security solution at Whitehill & Bordon represents a long-term investment, with rugged, hard-wearing technology and components, combined with the ability to update and add features as required. This represents excellent value and supports a 15year development plan.

A total of 100 Axis network cameras and other devices were chosen as part of the new solution. These included PTZ cameras that can cope with all weather conditions allowing for effective monitoring across the site in resolutions of up to 4K, a range of all-in-one speaker systems and a live-streaming camera with 30x optical zoom.

The solution also comprises Axis network switches and an AXIS V59 PTZ network camera with broadcast quality for the live streaming of an array of events, such as music and comedy nights, both online and to giant billboard screens situated around the town.

With one third of the town centre development complete, and the second stage due to commence later this year, the security solution from Axis looks set to be scaled to cover a new supermarket, further residential dwellings and many other developments in

Jacksons Fencing has installed Securi-Mesh security panels and ball-stop fencing for a water treatment works in Surrey. Perimeter security and access control are essential at most water treatment works, however at this site, there were additional challenges. The treatment facility shares a boundary with a recreation ground, therefore there is a high risk of objects such as stray footballs entering the site facilities. As a result, a practical solution compromising more than just boundary security fencing was needed. Additionally, the recreation ground is in close vicinity to a local community centre with an attached preschool, so ensuring all are safe and secure is paramount. In order to create a safe, secure, and longlasting boundary fencing solution for the water treatment works, more than 230 metres of Securi-Mesh security panels were installed around the perimeter, backing onto the treatment works itself. Two different heights were specified; 3 and 5 metres, and these were installed to prevent the risk of vandalism and tampering with the high-security site. A break-in could result in a threat to public safety, so preventing this was a top priority. The fencing boasts an anti-climb design and it is also highly resistant to cutting with conventional hand tools. The tamper-proof bolts and clamp bars secure the overlapped mesh panels to posts, and this system further deters any form of criminal behaviour or entry by preventing the panels from being prised away from posts.

APPLICATIONS

The Kia Metropol Arena in Nuremberg, Germany, opened in 2021, and hosts football at the Bundesliga level, corporate conferences, and cultural events for over 4,000 spectators across four stands. Thanks to cost-effective solutions planned and implemented by Bosch, the arena is secured while at the same time provides clear sound for all its events.

The building makes the most of IoT, connectivity and digital solutions: In addition to IP technologies for video surveillance, intrusion and fire protection, the arena also hosts an integrated solution for public address and voice alarm, which completely dispenses with analogue transmission paths.

The technological heart of the system is the IP-based Praesensa system from Bosch, a solution with a built-in fail-safe due to its multichannel amplifier architecture. A digital mixing console and radio microphones are connected to the system, and a total of 56 certified full-range loudspeakers from Electro-Voice were installed in the interior of the Kia Metropol Arena.

The acoustics of sports halls are often considered particularly difficult to get right due to the reverberation caused by the spacious architecture however the 20,000-watt system transmits excellent sound, guaranteeing clarity of speech in every single seat.

Announcements can be made live or played automatically from digital memory. Meanwhile, maintenance by Bosch can be carried out quickly and remotely, while adjustments can be made easily by updating the software.

Distributor of electronic security systems and solutions for over 250 leading manufacturers, the company also offers an internal technical support team, dedicated field support engineers along with a suite of training courses and services. ADI also offers a variety of fast, reliable delivery options, including specified time delivery, next day or collection from any one of 28 branches nationwide. Plus, with an ADI online account, installers can order up to 7pm for next day delivery.

Fortus is a distributor of security and fire solutions. We are the largest privately owned, B2B security distribution company trading across the UK & IRE within the key industry verticals of CCTV, Intruder, Access and Fire products. With more than 20 years’ experience in technology distribution with key brands, we can support you with any size project as well as offering next day delivery.

114 Power Road Studios, Chiswick, London W4 5PY

Intratone is a manufacturer and service provider of GSM door entry technology. Over the past 10 years Intratone has expanded its product portfolio to include a large range of video intercoms, proximity readers and digital noticeboards. Quick installation, no costly handsets, remote management via free cloud portal make our wireless system to a sustainable, real-time solution for all your accesses.

Unit No: OneJLT-06-23, OneJLT, Plot No. DMCC-EZI-1AB, Jumeriah Lakes Tower, Dubai

James Hill Street, Littleborough OL15 8AE

Secure House, Braithwell Way, Hellaby, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S66 8QY

Bradwood Court, St Crispin Way, Haslingden, Lancs BB4 4PW

We lead in specialist recruitment for the Fire & Security, Telecoms, and M&E sectors. With over 20 years of trading, Technical Resources work with the best permanent and contract staff, helping our clients to deliver their services. Whether it’s permanent, contract, or larger recruitment programs - we deliver the right candidates to our clients. To do this, we have a great team of hardworking recruiters who know that getting recruitment right the first time is key to the success of the businesses we serve and the professionals we find jobs for. What makes us different? We reference check ALL our candidates. The projects you have need to be delivered. So, we will only send you candidates that we have previously used or successfully referenced. This saves you crucial time and ensures successful project delivery. Concerned about compliance? Quality and compliance is in our DNA. Compliance checks are a key part of our weekly processes. And we don't stop after placing the candidates with you. We run weekly checks on all contractor timesheets and will check in with you and your contractor too. Rivermead House, Hamm Moor Lane, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 2SF

We’ve over 35 years of experience in the fire and security industry. Prepare and protect homes and businesses with our alarm signalling systems. From fast and affordable to best in the business, you can get every customer future-ready for all-IP. Simple to install, with a choice of fixed IP and wi-fi connected options. Dual SIM and roaming 4G for resilient wireless signalling. Many of them also come with no upfront costs and all with a 10-year guarantee and 24/7 support.

Challenge Way, Martland Park, Wigan WN5 OLD United Kingdom

Paxton House, Home Farm Road, Brighton, BN1 9HU

With 37 years of experience, we design and manufacture market-leading security solutions for a range of buildings. Around 30,000 buildings are secured globally by Paxton products, every year. We utilise the latest technology to provide powerful, yet easy-to-install and use security solutions. Our products are designed for a wide range of sectors including education, healthcare, retail, leisure, commercial, the public sector and more. All our products are manufactured in the UK and are backed by our 5-year guarantee and hasslefree returns policy.

PO Box 1288, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 9BQ

InstallerPro is designed for UK Fire & Security companies. With InstallerPro you will never miss a job, visit, or invoice again. Our system helps keep your business on track and maintain your compliance to BS/ISO standards, SSAIB, NSI, BAFE & GateSafe. InstallerPro comes preloaded with all the tools you need to get working straight away, and because its cloud based, you can work from anywhere. Import your clients from your old software and get started with InstallerPro today.

6a Hazel Court, Blidworth, Nottingham NG21 0RY

60 Norden Road, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 4AY

APPOINTMENTS

Saul Gray

Eclipse Digital Solutions has welcomed an experienced new addition to its management team.

Business development manager Saul Gray will focus on promoting and selling Eclipse’s expanding security product range including anti-theft fogging devices Defender and Overwatch.

With a background of 20 years in the security industry, Saul brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in building and developing strong relationships and working with clients to help identify and meet their security requirements.

Brendan McGarrity

Brendan McGarrity, Director of Evolution Risk & Design, has been appointed a Fellow of The Security Institute (FSyl), the membership body for UK security professionals.

Richard Lambert, Managing Director of Evolution, says that to become a Fellow is a significant accolade: “Brendan is to be congratulated on his achievement which is highly valued in our industry as the professional Gold Standard.

“Since joining Evolution almost five years ago he has continually demonstrated notably high levels of security knowledge, practical application, communication, leadership and personal commitment to our industry, our business, and our clients.” Ali Tremasi

Engineer Ali Tremasi has joined Inner Range as a pre-sales technical consultant. His role includes designing integrated access and security systems for would-be customers, consulting on system designs and ensuring that integrators and endusers understand what the systems can deliver.

Ali was previously a technical engineer for Hikvision and a BT field engineer for tech support and delivery firm Enjoy UK.

Inner Range Director Tim Northwood said: “Ali’s solid engineering experience is a great foundation for joining our team. He’ll be working closely with our sales team to help them answer questions and design potential system solutions to meet customer needs that are often highly bespoke.”

Joe Rogers

Joe Rogers has joined Astra Security as Project Manager with a focus on designing integrated security systems as well as managing the installations in accordance with client specification, industry standards and appropriate timescales while working to a pre-determined budget.

He is appointed after spending seven years working for BMW car dealership Dick Lovett and most recently spending three years as Service Manager for Motorrad. This broad ranging role helped hone his customer service and man-management skills, monitoring KPIs and productivity for technicians and service advisors, working to tight schedules and deadlines.

Joe said: “I’m really excited to be joining the team, and looking forward to getting to know the business better and use my previous experience to add value. My focus in the short term will be on learning as much as I can about the industry and technology.”

Michael Hooley

QED has announced the appointment of Michael Hooley to the role of Junior Account Manager. The latest appointment to the sales team came through Chorley Jobcentre Plus who helped QED with the candidate search. And, although Michael had never worked within sales before, the company met him to find out more and introduce him to the business after being suitably impressed with his attitude and skill set.

On his appointment, Michael said: “I couldn’t be more excited to start this new chapter in my career. Coming from a background of working in retail, sales is a brand new industry to me, but I’m looking forward to bringing my skills and knowledge to this new role and showcase what I can do.”