April 22, 2026
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AI, Security & the Future of Video: 2025 Trends from Milestone Systems CTO Rahul Yadav

Targeted insights for integrators and resellers navigating rapid shifts in AI-driven security

As AI and video technologies continue to evolve at a rapid pace, system integrators and resellers around the world face new challenges – and opportunities. According to Rahul Yadav, Chief Technology Officer at Milestone Systems, 2025 marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of intelligent security systems. Speaking from years of experience at the intersection of artificial intelligence and video surveillance, he outlines five key trends shaping the future of the industry.

The Era of Agentics

According to Yadav, the most transformative industry shift is the rise of “Agentics” – a term used to describe AI systems that can act autonomously, learn from their environments, and enable contextual decision-making. Unlike traditional, rule-based automation, these AI agents are far more sophisticated than chatbots. For example, these AI agents use generative, training-based approaches to perform complex security tasks, such as identifying threats or triggering response protocols, without needing step-by-step human input. They can wait for specific conditions, respond to prompts, or act on their own initiative when they detect relevant situations. Most importantly, they learn from their actions and adapt to new scenarios, much like human operators.

For resellers, this means a shift toward offering solutions that proactively manage threats and improve response times while reducing the burden on operators. AI agents are already appearing in advanced video analytics and automated monitoring systems – and by the end of 2025, Yadav believes they’ll be a core part of every modern security toolkit.

From IQ to AQ: The Rise of Action Intelligence

Historically, human capability has been assessed through IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and more recently EQ (Emotional Quotient). However, now we’re entering an era where AQ — Action Quotient — is equally important. AQ reflects the ability of AI systems to take autonomous actions on behalf of humans. For example, Tesla’s full self-driving technology not only interprets its surroundings but also makes real-time driving decisions without human intervention.

This shift toward “Action Intelligence” is particularly relevant in security operations. Traditional monitoring systems alert human operators to potential issues, requiring manual intervention. In contrast, high-AQ systems can assess situations, initiate appropriate responses, and adjust their actions based on changing conditions. This transition makes systems more proactive and less dependent on constant human oversight.

For system integrators, this shift underscores the need to design systems that are not just reactive, but proactive. Instead of relying solely on human intervention, future-ready platforms incorporate action intelligence to coordinate across access control, video surveillance, and emergency protocols.

 The Human Factor

Although automation reduces routine manual work, Yadav emphasizes that human expertise remains essential, with security professionals’ roles evolving rather than disappearing. As Microsoft’s CEO pointed out several years ago, “It’s not AI that will replace you, but someone using AI who will.”

For integrators and resellers, this represents a chance to position themselves as AI enablers, helping clients transition from legacy systems to intelligent platforms. As end users adapt, they’ll rely on partners who can guide them through both the technology and the workforce transformation it demands.

 The Evolution of AI Models

Milestone’s Chief Technology Officer highlights the emergence of three specialized AI model types:

  • Small Language Models (SLMs) tailored for specific tasks
  • Video Language Models (VLMs) focused on video processing
  • Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) capable of interpreting and managing multiple data types simultaneously

This marks a shift from traditional analytics to more advanced, learning-based systems and models that are increasingly efficient, powerful, and cost-effective.

Advancements in AI models are also driving a shift in computing infrastructure—from traditional CPU-based processing toward GPU-centric architectures—transforming how systems are designed and programmed. While major technology companies invest hundreds of millions in training large foundational models, security firms can leverage these models to build custom AI solutions with significantly lower hardware investments.

Today, a mid-sized security operation can deploy effective AI capabilities with a fraction of the cost required a few years ago. This democratization of AI enables resellers and system integrators to deliver advanced tools to smaller clients, ranging from retail to municipal safety agencies, by leveraging pre-trained models adapted for local needs.

Responsible Innovation

As security solutions become more intelligent, trust and transparency will play a crucial role in vendor selection. Yadav cautions that innovation without ethics poses risks for both manufacturers and integrators.

For European integrators working with local governments, critical infrastructure, or enterprise clients, partnering with vendors who prioritize responsible AI—such as Milestone—can provide a competitive edge. Clearly defined AI governance frameworks and client education on ethical deployment will become key differentiators.

Just as consumers prefer trusted brands for their smartphones and personal devices, organizations will increasingly select security technology partners based on their commitment to responsible innovation and ethical AI practices.

The Future of Video Management

To conclude, Milestone Systems’ CTO Rahul Yadav highlights how video management systems (VMS) are evolving from passive recording tools into intelligent platforms offering real-time analysis and automated responses.

This transformation is reshaping security operations — shifting from large monitoring teams to AI-augmented environments where human operators focus on strategic oversight and complex decisions. Routine tasks like incident detection will increasingly be handled by AI.

Yadav stresses that this shift isn’t full automation but a partnership between humans and AI. Success depends on balancing innovation with responsibility, ensuring technology enhances—not replaces—human judgment and empathy.

As the industry advances, adaptability and responsible innovation will set integrators, resellers, and solution providers apart. Now is the time for integrators and resellers to reassess portfolios, deepen AI expertise, and partner with trusted vendors like Milestone – shaping the future of video technology through responsible innovation and flexible solutions.

Interested in choosing the right VMS solution for your organization?

Request a demo (pardot.milestonesys.com/DemandGeneration-EET) and experience capabilities of the latest Milestone technology.

Suprema: BioStar X – AI-Powered Next-Generation Integrated Security Platform

Maximizing Security and Operational Efficiency with the Convergence of AI-Based Access Control and Intelligent Video Analytics

The global security market is expanding at an unprecedented rate. According to Allied Market Research, the integrated security services sector is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.7% from 2022 to 2031, reaching USD 55.5 billion by the end of the period. This growth is fueled by increasingly complex security challenges and a rising demand for unified solutions over standalone systems. Today, major corporations, government facilities, and international airports are moving swiftly toward integrated security platforms.

Integrated security is no longer just about safeguarding buildings—it’s becoming a cornerstone of operational excellence. While traditional systems focused primarily on access control and video surveillance, modern integrated platforms now unify a broad range of building functions—from HR management and fire detection to license plate recognition, HVAC, and lighting control—all within a single interface. This evolution reflects a clear industry need: security solutions that also optimize operational workflows.

Introducing BioStar X: AI-Powered Next-Generation Integrated Security Platform

To meet this need, Suprema has developed BioStar X, a cutting-edge integrated security platform that merges AI-powered access control with intelligent video analytics. Building on over 20 years of industry expertise, Suprema has created a solution that goes far beyond conventional access control—offering intelligent, scalable, and highly stable security operations for enterprise environments. BioStar X is advanced in both AI-driven access control and video analytics and provides exceptional scalability and reliability, even in large-scale deployments.

Convergence of AI-Based Access Control and Intelligent Video Analytics

BioStar X integrates AI-based access control and video analytics into a single platform. Real-time access management, video monitoring, and intelligent analytics can all be performed simultaneously on one screen, enabling efficient monitoring with minimal personnel. In the event of an incident, users can instantly identify the situation and its location, ensuring a rapid response.

The platform also features highly advanced AI-driven data analysis capabilities. It proactively detects and responds to threats through abnormal behavior analysis, including AI-based intrusion detection, loitering detection, and fall detection.

Moreover, it enables precise data analysis and enhanced security monitoring in large-scale facilities through features such as people counting, tailgating detection, blacklist detection, and missing person tracking. As such, BioStar X plays a vital role not only in multi-use facilities like schools, malls, airports, and hospitals but also in smart buildings.

For example, when deployed in schools, BioStar X can help prevent security incidents by detecting threats such as intrusions or weapon possession using AI video analytics. It can also identify abnormal behaviors like school violence or loitering and enable immediate intervention. Facial recognition technology can restrict outsider access and integrate with academic schedules to manage classroom entry and attendance. Additionally, it automates classroom locking and motion detection to secure unoccupied rooms. The system can also be integrated with pre-registration visitor management systems, enhancing campus-wide security through facial recognition or QR-based identity verification.

Maximizing Operational Efficiency and Security through a Unified Platform

By integrating multiple security systems—such as access control and video surveillance—into one platform, BioStar X allows security personnel to monitor and manage all security operations in real time through a single interface, eliminating the need to juggle separate systems. This streamlines security processes, enables rapid incident response, and improves both operational efficiency and overall security performance.

Improved efficiency also allows for optimized personnel allocation, while the reduced number of standalone systems lowers maintenance requirements and operational costs—ultimately driving down long-term expenses. Furthermore, BioStar X’s flexible scalability means additional security systems don’t need to be added separately. It can grow alongside organizational needs, enabling safer and more efficient environments.

Scalable and Stable for Enterprise Environments

For large-scale facilities, such as corporate buildings and government institutions, scalability and stability are essential. BioStar X supports the registration of tens of thousands of users and can reliably operate a vast number of devices—making it a true enterprise-grade solution. Suprema is already supporting major deployments like the Sejong Government Complex in Korea and the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Morocco.

The platform also offers the flexibility to meet complex enterprise requirements. With seamless integration capabilities for third-party systems and customizable UI/UX options, BioStar X can be tailored to meet even the most demanding environments. Security teams can personalize dashboards to display specific video feeds, data sets, or applications—delivering a user experience that is both powerful and intuitive.

BioStar X as an Essential Security Solution for the Future of Security

As security threats evolve, so too must the technologies that protect us. BioStar X represents the next generation of intelligent, integrated security—engineered for organizations that require more than just protection. Whether you manage a corporate office, a smart building, or a public institution, BioStar X delivers the perfect blend of advanced security and operational efficiency. It’s not just a platform—it’s a strategic investment in the safety, intelligence, and future-readiness of your organization.

Learn how to harness digital access to boost building sustainability performance

London, June 2025 – According to the International Energy Agency, buildings consume around 30% of the world’s energy*. For many organizations, climate change and rising costs have made improving energy efficiency a priority. A new video in ASSA ABLOY’s Expert Talks series considers some key ways their choice of access solution can make a positive impact – benefitting both business and environmental performance at the same time.

“We all have a responsibility to reduce emissions, including embodied carbon, and your choice of access solution can make a meaningful difference,” says Olympia Dolla, Head of Sustainability Program EMEIA at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions. “Digitalization can be one key to improved sustainability performance.”

With expert insights from Olympia Dolla, among others, the new Expert Talk delves deeper to give customers the sustainability and green building knowledge they need to make better long-term decisions and investments for their organization.

  1. Consider a building’s complete life-cycle

At the very earliest project stages, design or specification, ASSA ABLOY offers in-depth support for architects, developers and specifiers targeting accreditation in six leading green building certifications: BREEAM, LEED, Green Star, WELL, DGNB, HQE***.

During product installation, choosing a wireless digital solution makes an immediate difference. With devices which require no cabling around the door, there’s little or no drilling, which reduces power consumption. There’s less damage to the building fabric. And because wireless installation is faster, fitters make fewer site visits, reducing travel.

Use-stage for any digital building system means ongoing energy consumption. Traditional wired systems draw on mains power to maintain locking. Wireless access works differently: during operation, battery-powered devices only ‘wake up’ when presented with a credential. They are much more energy efficient than equivalent wired solutions.

“Energy use during operation may be eliminated altogether when digital locks are powered by innovative energy harvesting technology,” adds Olympia.

  1. EPDs are more important than ever

The most authoritative way to gauge the impact of a digital access device is with an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). An EPD offers a detailed assessment of a product based on study of its life-cycle; a complete mapping of its footprint from raw material, through manufacturing, logistics and impact during use, to end-of-life recycling.

Product-specific EPDs help architects, specifiers, contractors and developers make accurate forecasts about both embodied carbon and finished building performance. They are important for accruing points towards green building certifications. And from 2026, a declaration of the results from an EPD must be part of the CE Marking process – and therefore, essential to sell a product or solution to the European market.

“The use of EPDs has grown quickly,” says Olympia. “In fact, many projects already require an EPD to specify a product or solution, well ahead of the new European regulations for the commercial and residential sector, including renovations.”

ASSA ABLOY’s Expert Talks series aims to better inform decision-makers, including security managers, directors, consultants and specifiers, about the key issues involved in 5 distinct areas of digital access: Security, Sustainability, Convenience, Innovation and Reliability. As specialist contributors to each of the videos show, these 5 areas each represent a potential ROI for businesses who want to make their access ready for what’s ahead.

To learn more, watch “Expert Talk: Sustainability”, the second in ASSA ABLOY’s video series, at https://www.assaabloy.com/group/emeia/stories/blogs/das-expert-talk-about-sustainability

Adria Smart City Joins Forces with Adria Security Summit 2025

The inaugural Adria Smart City event will launch alongside the well-established Adria Security Summit 2025, taking place on October 8–9, 2025 at the Hotel Aleksandar Palace in Skopje. Jointly organized by a&s Adria and BSB Events, this new platform brings together thought leaders, technology providers, and decision-makers shaping the future of urban living.

Held under one roof, the two events will deliver a unified experience for visitors, connecting the smart city and security sectors in a shared ecosystem of innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. Participants and exhibitors will benefit from an integrated format that enhances networking and highlights the interconnected nature of modern urban challenges and solutions.

Adria Smart City will feature both a conference and an exhibition, focusing on cutting-edge smart city technologies across energy, mobility, security, digitalization, and more. It is designed for city representatives, government agencies, engineers, architects, and other professionals committed to improving the functionality and quality of urban life. Exhibitors will include companies developing advanced solutions for sustainable, efficient, and secure cities.

The addition of Adria Smart City underscores the rising demand for integrated, forward-looking solutions and strengthens the Summit’s role as a key regional hub for innovation. With over 150 exhibitors and 3,000 expected participants, the combined events continue to solidify their position as the leading industry platform in the Adriatic region.

To register or learn more about the events, visit www.adriasecuritysummit.com.

Video Technology in Transition: Intelligent Cameras as Multifunctional Sensors

For a long time, video cameras were used primarily for surveillance purposes. However, with digitalisation, new technical standards, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI), the range of possible uses has fundamentally expanded. Today, cameras offer far more than traditional security functions and are evolving into valuable sensor platforms within modern building infrastructures.

While cameras still play a crucial role in enhancing security, they are increasingly used in other areas such as marketing, parking management, workforce planning, and the control of building systems. Current technological trends, originally developed for security-related applications, are now opening up new use cases.

A prime example is the continuous improvement in resolution: 4K and even 8K cameras allow for highly detailed capture of people, objects, and situations – a development that benefits both security and a variety of other applications. Key advancements include intelligent video analytics, AI integration, cloud-based storage solutions, integration into IoT environments, and mobile surveillance technologies. Modern systems no longer simply record video data passively but actively analyse it in real time – either directly on the device (“on the edge”) or via central servers. This enables automatic triggering of alarms or initiation of processes. Artificial intelligence assists with the recognition of patterns, faces, or number plates and helps in automatically reporting suspicious activities. Instead of relying on local storage media, cloud-based solutions are increasingly being adopted, offering more flexible access and better scalability. Cameras are also becoming integral components of smart building systems – such as in smart homes, traffic management, or building-wide automation. The use of camera-equipped drones is also gaining importance among security authorities and private providers.

Data protection and public acceptance

As the use of camera technologies increases, ethical and legal issues are moving to the forefront. The European GDPR, stricter regulations around facial recognition, and the requirement to label monitored areas are contributing to greater transparency and building public trust. At the same time, clear legal frameworks are essential to ensure the responsible use of such technologies.

Cameras as connected sensors

The term “visual intelligence” is increasingly replacing the traditional understanding of video surveillance. Today, cameras act as multisensory systems capable of detecting audio, temperature, or even chemical signals. Supported by AI-based analytics, they contribute not only to building security but also to the optimisation of operational processes. Close cooperation between manufacturers, integrators, and security experts is creating solutions that deliver tangible added value – from automation to increased efficiency.

New perspectives for building security

Thanks to AI-based video analytics, proactive security strategies are now possible. Cameras can detect behavioural anomalies, movement patterns, or unauthorised access and trigger appropriate responses automatically. Especially in high-security areas such as airports, these systems can flexibly adapt to emerging threats and provide targeted support to security personnel.

Early fire Detection via video

One of the major innovations in fire protection is AI-powered, video-based fire detection. Systems such as Bosch’s Aviotec 8000i IR use deep learning algorithms to detect smoke and flames in real time. They operate reliably even under challenging conditions such as darkness, humidity, or strong air circulation, often identifying hazards earlier than conventional detectors.

Added value beyond security

Intelligent cameras are also being used in sectors such as retail and hospitality. They monitor visitor flows, identify peak periods, and analyse customer behaviour. As a result, they support not only security but also provide valuable operational data for planning, marketing, and personnel management.

Building management through video data

Management software evaluates the captured information and makes it usable for operators – for instance, to determine occupancy levels, demographic structures, or traffic flows. Environmental aspects can also benefit when HVAC systems are controlled based on room occupancy or lighting is adjusted according to demand. In this way, intelligent camera technology actively contributes to sustainability in buildings.

Video technology in the spotlight: Light + Building 2026 as an industry showcase

The potential offered by modern video technology in building environments will be on full display at Light + Building from 8 to 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt am Main. In particular, the Intersec Building section will feature companies from the security and building technology sectors showcasing innovative solutions that combine security, efficiency, and intelligent networking.

The range of exhibits will cover everything from traditional applications such as fire protection, access control, and video surveillance to holistic system solutions for connected buildings. Increasing focus is being placed on protecting digital infrastructures and sensitive data. In smart homes and smart buildings, integrated system technology across various trades forms the basis for incorporating all security-relevant components. With practical innovations and in-depth expertise, the Intersec Building section offers valuable insights into the future of modern building security.

Light + Building

Light + Building, the world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology, will take place from 8 to 13 March 2026.

www.light-building.com

Press information and photographic material:

www.light-building.com/press

Links to websites:

www.light-building.com/facebook

www.light-building.com/youtube

www.light-building.com/linkedin

www.light-building.com/instagram

www.instagram.com/building.technologies.messeffm

Salto Publishes Verified EPD for Its Neo Cylinder Smart Locking Range

Salto has announced that the Salto Neo electronic cylinder full range has passed a third-party verification of the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). The EPD applies to all European, Scandinavian, Swiss, and UK mortise, cam lock, and American standard lock cylinders (mortise, rim, and deadbolt).

An EPD is a third-party-verified document that provides a transparent and detailed account of a product’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle – from material extraction and manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. EPDS provide a credible and standardized means for both companies and consumers to assess a product’s environmental impact.

For architects, designers, developers, and other built environment professionals, an EPD offers critical insights that inform sustainable decision-making. It also ensures compliance with green building standards as well as eco-friendly construction practices. By quantifying a product’s environmental footprint, EPDs empower decision-makers to prioritize sustainable architecture.

A sustainable and unique compact design  

The Salto Neo electronic cylinder range combines advanced smart locking technology and a universally compatible cylinder that replaces an existing cylinder and fits any door with unlimited model options. Salto Neo cylinder smart locks are ideal for diverse applications across the residential, commercial, education, healthcare, and workspace industries.

  • Easy to install: Easy to install and retrofit, the universally compatible Salto Neo cylinder can replace an existing cylinder and fit any door – with unlimited model options.
  • Wireless connectivity: The Salto Neo Cylinder range can deliver structured, wire-free systems that enhance coverage and provide seamless, keyless access.
  • Aesthetics: Available in a variety of finishes, the Salto Neo Cylinder range offers limitless choices to customize doors. They are an excellent choice for retrofitting projects.
  • Digital and mobile credentials: Meet user, staff, and visitor security expectations across buildings with a seamless, keyless experience. Incorporate flexible access credentials – mobile, NFC and RFID cards, Wallet keys, and more – that deliver secure access to the right buildings, sites, and spaces.

Schneider Electric Bulgaria has opened the first-of-its-kind industrial geothermal system in its Smart Factory in Plovdiv

The innovative geothermal system was developed in response to Schneider Electric’s global sustainability goals and uses “dry” closed boreholes, in which a fluid circulates and is heated by the natural temperature of the earth. The heat pump units produce hot water for heating and hot water for domestic use, providing over 70% savings in electricity for heating and cooling the plant. The system does not use groundwater resources and contributes to achieving the company’s carbon neutrality goals.

“It is a pleasure and a huge responsibility for us to be pioneers in the field of carbon neutrality. Through the geothermal system we are opening today, we once again stand firmly behind Schneider Electric’s commitment to decarbonization on a global scale. Energy management, together with sustainable development, is the essence of our business and our core competence,” explained Martin Yordanov, Director of Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory in Plovdiv.

“Decarbonization is not a one-day goal. For Schneider Electric, it is an adventure in which we invest time and energy to track our consumption, analyze processes, properly manage the resources we have, and eliminate waste. The new geothermal installation is just one of the steps on our way to the goal. In recent years, Schneider Electric Bulgaria has implemented a number of projects aimed at decarbonization, which illustrate our desire, dedication and aspiration step by step to achieve carbon neutrality,” commented Mr. Martin Ganchevski, project manager for the installation of the geothermal system.

The opening ceremony was attended by representatives of national and local authorities, including Ms. Angelina Boneva, Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Mr. Ivan Stoyanov, Deputy Mayor for Ecology and Health of the City of Plovdiv, Mr. Dimitar Ivanov, Mayor of Maritsa Municipality, Mr. Yordan Dashev, Mayor of the village of Radinovo, and Mr. Plamen Panchev, Executive Director and Founder of the Trakia Economic Zone (TEZ).

Ms. Angelina Boneva defined Schneider Electric as a pioneer in the dual transition, emphasizing the importance of the company’s high ambitions for creating sustainable solutions through cooperation with universities and the use of the latest technologies. “It is an honor and pleasure for me to attend such an event. Schneider Electric Bulgaria is a large company that “swirls” its own ecosystem and raises the general standard. I am very glad that the high ambitions of Schneider Electric are transferred here – to the city of Plovdiv and among the local communities. These are the places in Bulgaria recognized as the best for investments, because the local authorities work hand in hand with business. Sincere congratulations and respect to Schneider Electric Bulgaria”, said Ms. Boneva during the ceremony.

As a representative of the local government, the Deputy Mayor for Ecology and Health of the city of Plovdiv, Mr. Ivan Stoyanov, also expressed his satisfaction at attending an event with a contribution to ecology. “I am glad that local business and business in general are helping the municipalities and the administration to introduce such successful models together. We have something to learn from you and we will be helpful in any way we can. In the person of the Municipality of Plovdiv, you have a partner and a friend,” said Mr. Stoyanov.

Last but not least, Mr. Plamen Panchev from the Thrace Economic Zone (TEZ) expressed his satisfaction with the fact that Bulgaria is leading in the implementation of modern technologies, emphasizing that partners like Schneider Electric are key to the implementation of carbon neutrality projects. “As Ms. Nikolova shared, the success of the decarbonization mission is entirely possible. Bulgaria is now not only a world-class country in this area, but is also a leading force in the implementation of modern technologies in the field. TEZ is one of the best examples in Europe for the implementation of carbon neutrality projects, and this is possible because we have partners like Schneider Electric Bulgaria, who are fulfilling the goals they have set themselves,” he shared.

The geothermal system at Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory in Plovdiv will improve its energy efficiency and help combat climate change by providing renewable energy sources integrated with digital solutions. With this innovative approach, Schneider Electric underlines its commitment to its goals of carbon-neutral operations by 2025, carbon-neutral footprint by 2040 and suppliers with zero net carbon emissions by 2050.

“The system developed by ReEnergy Engineering represents a significant step towards energy independence for the Smart Factory in Plovdiv. With this project, Schneider Electric is not only building infrastructure for the future, but also once again demonstrating its commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainability,” added the company’s team in our country.

Key Criteria to Take Into Consideration When Migrating to a New Access Control Solution?

Since the 1990s, where the RFID technology allowed the creation of contactless IP door access control systems, the installed base of access control equipment has grown hugely. There are now a lot of legacy systems in place that need an upgrade to more secure, reliable technology and to take advantage of additional functionality.

By Thomas Napora, Vice President & General Manager EMEA, ICT

The need to deploy newer technology has to be balanced out by budgetary constraints: many companies and public organisations can’t afford to change the whole system in one go and need to proceed with a phased migration.

So, what are the main considerations an end-user should have when embarking on an upgrade to their access control?

Like every journey, there is a starting point and a destination. The starting point is the current equipment and dependencies – such as existing card readers, cards and tags used by employees / contractors, integration with existing operational systems and databases like time and attendance management etc.

The destination is what the system should ultimately provide: should it combine access control and other security or operational systems such as intrusion detection? And are integrations with video surveillance, lift, number plate recognition, or building automation required?

A major consideration is to use open protocol access control systems. This means an access control solution which can work with third party readers using either Wiegand or OSDP protocol. Or vice versa – card readers which can work with third party controllers.

Additionally, the ability for an end-user to keep their existing credentials and gradually upgrade to a more secure communication protocol is not to be underestimated. It’s a considerable operational challenge to issue new credentials to hundreds or thousands of people at once. Card readers which “out of the box” can read many different communication protocols are an advantage here, as well as the capability to issue mobile credentials.

A first phase of the migration path, could be to keep the legacy controller and legacy readers, add a new access control server and controller such as the Protege GX platform and use a Data Sync license to synchronise the database between the two systems. New, more secure readers can be added in areas needing more stringent security. Then, gradually, the system can be updated in phases without interruption to service.

A second consideration when migrating to a new access control platform is the need of interoperability. With more and more systems converging, and being managed centrally, it is crucial for security and building management solutions to work together and improve the user experience. This can be achieved through open application programming interfaces (APIs), a fundamental tool that allow systems to connect with third-party technologies.

This can also go even deeper through the technology partnerships between manufacturers to achieve a higher level of integration. Depending on operational requirements, end-users should look at the list of integrations provided by the access control manufacturer, whether that’s biometric readers, video management systems, lift management, or building automation etc.

Finally, a must when considering any system sitting on an IT network is cybersecurity. Cyber threats are omnipresent and constantly evolving. The cyber risk is present at every level: from each stage of the product development to the system deployment and maintenance.

From a manufacturer perspective, we at ICT, perform thorough testing on our Protege platforms, regular updates to address emerging vulnerabilities, and we adhere to stringent security standards like ISO/IEC 27001, which ensures a robust information security management system.

It is essential that cybersecurity doesn’t stop with the manufacturer but carries on with the way the system is deployed and used daily by the end-user. Education is key here and end-users should work with installation companies adhering to these high cybersecurity standards and should apply them internally as well.

ICT has helped thousands of companies to migrate in a phased approach to a secure unified access control and intrusion detection, respecting budget constraints and operational requirements to achieve a successful solution.

ČETRTA POT successfully upgrades Access Control and Time & Attendance Systems at Otto Austria Group

Cross-border, complex, and fast.

Slovenian company ČETRTA POT successfully implemented a modern access control and time & attendance system for Otto Austria Group across three locations in two countries, in just two months – ensuring full compliance with top security system according to EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 standard and seamless API integration.

A cross-border project, multiple locations, multilingual environments, and strict security standards – Slovenian company ČETRTA POT has successfully completed a comprehensive modernization of the access control and time management system for Otto Austria Group at tree of their key Austrian locations, two in Graz and one in Salzburg.

Strategic transition driven by relocation

As part of their move to new premises, Otto Austria Group made the strategic decision to replace their outdated access control system, which was no longer able to meet their operational, cost, and security requirements.

“We were working with a legacy system that no longer aligned with our expectations – technically, financially, or in terms of compliance with EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 security standards. Staying locked into the old system would have meant long-term limitations. The relocation was the right moment to make a full transition,” explains Marko Puncer, Lead of IT Infrastructure at Otto Austria Group.

Slovenian expertise – international standards

Otto Austria Group selected ČETRTA POT as their technology partner.

“Their strong presence across facilities in Slovenia, along with references from international implementations, gave us confidence. Looking back, we can say with certainty – it was the right choice,” adds Puncer.

The new solution is based on a modular system with an open architecture, allowing for high adaptability and seamless integration. The previous “hub-and-spoke” model – where a single terminal controlled multiple access points – posed technical constraints. The new setup is flexible, modern, and fully integrated with Otto Austria Group’s existing infrastructure.

By the numbers: High complexity, fast execution

The project spanned two countries, three locations, three languages, and two time zones, and involved coordination across nine partner companies, multiple suppliers, and various internal IT departments.

Despite this complexity, implementation was impressively fast – only two months passed from contract signing to full deployment.

“ČETRTA POT’s team was highly engaged, solution-oriented, and flexible. Every single request – from custom API fields to a screen saver function – was implemented. Integration with our internal systems was smooth, which is not a given in cross-border IT environments,”
Puncer notes.

Key solution features:

  • Advanced access control with centralized management
  • Automated time tracking and absence management
  • Seamless API integration with existing systems
  • Full compliance with top security system according to EN-60839-11-1 up to Grade 4 standard
  • Multi-language support (English, Slovenian)

International validation of Slovenian expertise

The Otto Austria Group project is a strong case that Slovenian tech know-how can successfully meet the demands of complex international environments. With this implementation, ČETRTA POT has reinforced its position as a reliable partner for digitizing access control and time management – even in highly regulated, multi-site setups.

“We gladly recommend ČETRTA POT to any organization looking for a strategic, technically mature, and responsive partner. Their solutions are more than just products – they are the result of understanding the complexity of each environment, its people, and operational needs,” concludes Puncer.

Learn more about ČETRTA POT’s solutions: www.cetrtapot.com/en

Contact our experts for presentation: 📧 prodaja@cetrtapot.si | ☎ +386 4 280 66 60

Revolutionary Safety and Efficiency in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Research and development of new active ingredients and dosage forms are of central importance in the pharmaceutical industry. It is equally important for pharmaceutical production to obtain active ingredients from microorganisms or mammalian cells in large fermenters. The addition of bacteria, fungi or enzymes produces organic substances that are further processed in various steps such as grinding, granulating, coating and tableting.

The risks without gas monitoring

Imagine a pharmaceutical plant releasing a toxic gas such as carbon dioxide (CO2 ) or a combustible gas such as methane (CH4 ) during a fermentation process. Without reliable gas monitoring, this gas could escape unnoticed into the environment, which could have catastrophic consequences. Employees would be at risk, production processes could be interrupted and the financial losses due to necessary repairs and downtime would be enormous. Recognising such dangers at an early stage is virtually impossible without adequate monitoring.

The DGC-06 digital gas controller: a game changer in gas monitoring

With the DGC-06 digital gas controller, MSR-Electronic GmbH has developed a ground-breaking solution that masters the challenges of gas monitoring and at the same time significantly secures production.

The state-of-the-art measuring, warning and control controller system continuously monitors and analyses up to 128 gas sensors. Flexible, freely adjustable alarm thresholds recognise dangerous gas concentrations immediately. Appropriate countermeasures are then initiated.

The DGC-06 impresses with a number of remarkable features:

Reliability and availability

One of the outstanding features of the DGC-06 is its high reliability and availability. The system is equipped with self-monitoring and can optionally be connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This ensures that the system remains fully functional even in the event of power failures.

Versatile application possibilities

The DGC-06 is suitable for more than 50 different gases and can be used flexibly in various areas of gas measuring technology. This makes it an ideal solution for the various requirements in the pharmaceutical industry.

Simple operation and configuration

The operation and configuration of the DGC-06 is extremely simple. The intuitive menu navigation and the option of parameterisation via the PCE06 software enable quick and uncomplicated commissioning without the need for special programming knowledge.

Seamless integration

The controller can be seamlessly integrated into existing control systems. Thanks to various interfaces and protocols, centralised monitoring and control is possible, which further increases the efficiency of production processes.

The difference the DGC-06 makes

By implementing the DGC-06 digital gas controller, pharmaceutical companies benefit from a significant increase in safety and efficiency. The system not only ensures the protection of employees and systems, but also optimises production processes. Unforeseen breakdowns and faults can be minimised and operating costs sustainably reduced.

The DGC-06 was developed for large systems, tunnels or even for extensive connections. Everything is possible, from complex garages to access functions that are switched by gas alarm.

The DGC-06 gas controller series can monitor and evaluate up to 128 gas sensors, including 96 digital and/or 32 analogue sensors (4-20 mA). There are 4 freely adjustable alarm thresholds per sensor.

For alarm signals, the controller system has up to 128 relays with potential-free change-over contact and up to 16 analogue outputs with 4-20 mA signal.

ISSUES

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VAT no: 201142740001
ID no: 4201142740001
ISSN 1986-5

a&s Adria – professional security magazine for providing total security solutions is a monthly circulating publication and a licenced representative of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media for Adriatic region, which consists of following countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Slovenia and Serbia.