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A versatile device for adding digital access management to doors and more

London, August 2024 – Having doors with mechanical security can be a drag on the effectiveness and efficiency of facilities management. While wiring ever more locks to make access control more flexible is expensive and disruptive, a wireless solution built for compatibility can be the answer.

It takes a few minutes to swap almost any mechanical cylinder for a digital cylinder and connect it to an access control system. The battery-powered Aperio® C100 Cylinder can equip almost any door without the need for cables. The same device can secure server racks with digital access control. It works seamlessly with almost any EAC system, via Online, Offline or OSS-standard integration.

The flexibility benefits of digital access with the Aperio C100

By supplementing an EAC system with C100 devices, facility managers continue to control every lock and user from their existing software interface. They can deploy a C100 at almost any interior door — including wooden, metal or glass doors — as well as server racks and almost any other opening with a regular locking cylinder. The C100 supports all standard RFID credentials, as well as cutting-edge mobile technologies.

“It’s easier than ever to go keyless — to save time and money at a time when budgets have never been tighter,” says Robert Eriksson, Head of Product Management at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “As well as fast, cost-efficient installation, a C100 uses much less energy than comparable wired devices, because it is powered by standard batteries.”

The Aperio C100 Wireless Cylinder is a robust device suited to almost any medium- to high-traffic door — and has already proven reliable in all types of demanding locations. It is easy to install wire-free, and so makes an ideal choice for both retrofit projects and new buildings. And with the Aperio hardware platform designed for interoperability, it is straightforward to integrate C100 cylinders with almost any new or existing security system.

The Aperio C100 in action

The C100 is already trusted in all kinds of settings, where end-users all over the world benefit from seamless integrations with more than 100 different security and access systems — offline, online or with a mix of both within the same system.

At the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Grenoble, for example, Aperio C100 cylinders are installed in several hospital buildings. Previously, the open nature of the site posed a risk of intrusion. With Aperio, one immediate result was to drastically reduce theft from the premises. Online integration ensures hospital security managers can access door information in real time, even removing a swipe card’s permissions remotely, if required.

Stavanger’s new Concert Hall deployed Aperio to streamline access for a variety of user groups, including an orchestra, admin staff, up to 200 contractors and thousands of music fans. At different times, users need tailored access to 180 rooms, from auditoriums, rehearsal rooms and wardrobes to offices, a sauna, the canteen and an archive. Aperio digital cylinders give building managers the reliability and flexibility they need to manage all this traffic safely and efficiently.

At Luminy’s suburban campus, university administrators selected Aperio cylinders to secure doors in their new buildings. The laborious process of changing locks and reissuing keys — part of the daily workload with mechanical locking — has gone. Because Aperio locks are built for interoperability, they are flexible enough to integrate with the university’s room scheduling software as well as its ARD access control system.

“Since we installed Aperio, we have not had a break-in,” says Cédric Lopez, Maintenance Manager at Luminy.

“In hospitals and banks, theatres and universities — plus museums, offices, schools, public buildings and almost anywhere else — the versatility of the Aperio C100 Cylinder has brought security to people and assets, as well as peace of mind to facilities managers,” adds Eriksson.

Summer Security: New Palm Readers & Smart Cylinders

Greetings! As summer approaches, we are excited to share valuable updates and security solutions in this month’s newsletter. In this issue, meet part of the dedicated team behind our Quality Control, and RMA processes. Gain valuable insights into their expertise and discover the recent service enhancements we have implemented to provide you with a smoother and more efficient after-sales experience.

During the summer, facilities may experience higher visitor traffic or temporary staff. Manage high visitor traffic with the new Armatura Palm Reader. Secure and efficient, this palm recognition device (AMT-PVS-50) grants access without physical cards or keys and integrates seamlessly with third-party solutions.

Also, the CY21 Series digital locking cylinder offers the perfect solution for enhanced security without the hassle. These easy-to-install smart cylinders combine all the functions and designs of a smart access control system as standard, providing convenient keyless entry and management for homeowners. Their sturdy construction ensures reliable operation throughout the summer season.

Finally, our team will be showcasing our latest security solutions at Security Essen and ZUKUNFT PERSONAL EUROPE in Germany. Stay tuned for details on booth location and event highlights – we look forward to meeting you there!

New Bosch Acquisition Strengthens Position in Building Automation

Bosch Building Technologies plans to acquire DMS Digitale Mess- und Steuersysteme AG, headquartered in Ettlingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. DMS AG offers solutions and services in the areas of building, industrial, process and room automation as well as building and energy management.

According to the company, corresponding agreements were signed by Bosch and DMS AG on July 18, 2024. It has been agreed that the purchase price will not be disclosed. The acquisition is subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities.

With the purchase of DMS AG, Bosch Building Technologies intends to further strengthen the important growth area of building automation. The acquisition complements the 2019 and 2022 purchases of GFR Gesellschaft für Regelungstechnik und Energieeinsparung – now Bosch Building Automation GmbH – and Hörburger GmbH. Last year, Bosch Building Technologies grew by 25 percent in the building automation sector in Germany, significantly outperforming the market.

With the acquisition of DMS AG, Bosch Building Technologies has added the important area of process automation to its range of solutions, becoming a full-service provider for industrial manufacturing companies. The portfolio includes integrated and cross-domain solutions in the areas of building security, building automation, energy efficiency, sustainability consulting and digital services.

“With DMS AG, another building automation specialist with highly qualified and experienced associates complements our system integrator business. Together, we want to expand our existing portfolio for industrial customers and develop new forward-looking solutions and services that will enable the economical and sustainable operation of industrial buildings through to production,” says Thomas Quante, president of Bosch Building Technologies.

“We are very pleased to be part of Bosch Building Technologies in the future. Together, we can generate new added value for industrial customers,” says Jörg Hössl, CEO of DMS AG.

G4S’s Key Role in the Launch of One of Serbia’s First Smart Cities

Preventing traffic accidents, flooding and copper cables from being stolen in one fell swoop may sound improbable but Pančevo, a city near Serbia’s capital, is hoping to have accomplished just that. What’s made this possible? Pančevo has embarked on a venture to become one of the country’s first smart cities, with an end goal of improving quality of life for local citizens through efficiency and sustainability gains.

Systems integrator

 As the systems integrator, G4S Serbia played a key role in this project. In short, this required the company to design and procure solutions for three specific problems the city was trying to address after being awarded a public tender. To help make its designs feasible it chose to partner with Bitgear, a Serbian startup that specialises in sensors for a range of uses.

Integrated Electronic Security Systems Engineer Vladimir Ilic, who worked on this contract from the start, says G4S’s involvement in smart cities is a natural progression for the company given its experience in delivering electronic security systems, which also centre on technology and data.

Flood prevention

Flooding is one of the three issues that officials were keen to address given the city’s antiquated drainage system and its close proximity to a major river. Bitgear sensors were installed around the city to monitor water levels which set off an alarm once a certain threshold is reached, enabling blockages to be dealt with in a timely fashion.

The sensors are also capable of detecting when manhole covers have been opened, helping stop the theft of copper and fibre optic cables. Vladimir says: “The theft of cables can be costly for telecom companies to replace; thieves can steal as much as 1km of cables if a street is that long. It causes significant service disruption to customers too.”

Smart traffic solutions

 Downtown, G4S has implemented a smart traffic solution at one of the city’s busiest road crossings to help prevent road traffic incidents. It is linked up with the local police database allowing automated tickets to be issued to drivers that run a red light or are speeding.

Elsewhere at two well-known traffic accident blackspots, sensors capable of measuring the microclimate have been activated. The ground temperature is then displayed and, depending on the conditions, drivers are encouraged to slow down. At a later date, sensors will be added which can measure air quality and pollution rates.

Privacy concerns

While the benefits of smart cities are evident by what’s been achieved in Pančevo, the concept has its critics, not least around privacy concerns and the collection of big data. In response to this, Vladimir says: “Most of the equipment we’ve installed are sensors. Where we are using video, the cameras have been carefully positioned to monitor traffic violations and not to identify individuals. We are also prohibited from using any facial recognition technology.” He continues: “Another key benefit of smart cities is that real-time, complex data can be easily collected without the need for a data analytics team.”

Future smart solutions

Vladimir and the team believe these solutions could easily be replicated in other cities and are exploring what else can be implemented in Pančevo as it continues its transformation into a fully fledged smart city. Initial ideas include installing information kiosks across the city to help visitors find the nearest pharmacy or hotel, for example, as well as displaying which trails are open for walking in the nearby mountains.

Explaining why G4S is an ideal partner for this type of project, Vladimir says: “We are a one-stop shop covering all needs. As well as being a systems integrator, we can screen alarms into our control room should the customer want this, and provide patrol and response if needed.”

3-Year Warranty Optionally Available for MSR Controllers & Sensor Boards

MSR-Electronic is offering the option of extending the warranty for controllers and sensor boards to 3 years. This emphasises its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

The optional 3-year warranty covers material and manufacturing defects and includes the repair or replacement of the defective device. It can be purchased for all newly purchased controllers and sensor boards in its PG2 and PX2 product ranges.

Simon Lüftl, Head of Support, explains: “With the optional 3-year warranty, we offer our customers even more flexibility and security. They can fully rely on the quality of our products and ensure that their gas detectors work reliably in an emergency.”

Gas detectors from MSR-Electronic are designed for use in a wide range of demanding applications, including

  • Buildings: garages & tunnels, laboratory & medicine, food processing
  • Industry: H2 gas monitoring, petrochemicals, agriculture and chemical plants
  • Marine: commercial shipping, private shipping

The devices offer reliable protection against toxic and explosive gases and thus contribute to the safety of people, systems and the environment.

ASSA ABLOY Acquires Speciality Lock Business in Canada

ASSA ABLOY has acquired Wesko Locks Ltd, a Canadian manufacturer and supplier of electronic and specialty locks.

“I am very pleased to welcome Wesko Locks into the ASSA ABLOY Group. This acquisition delivers on our strategy to strengthen our position in mature markets through adding complementary products and solutions to our core business,” says Nico Delvaux, President and CEO of Assa Abloy.

“Wesko Locks has an extensive portfolio that complements our current high-security products and solutions,” says Lucas Boselli, Executive Vice President of ASSA ABLOY and Head of the Americas Division. “Their focus on high quality, innovative products and excellent customer service reflects our values and I’m excited for them to be part of Assa Abloy.”

Wesko Locks was founded in 1990 and has some 70 employees. The main office and factory are located in Mississauga, close to Toronto, Canada.

Sales for 2023 amounted to about MEUR 14.9 with a strong EBIT margin.

Ajax and Rexel Extend Partnership to Finland

Ajax Systems, one of the largest security systems manufacturers in Europe, has begun a new chapter in its cooperation with Rexel, a prominent player in the European market offering electrifying solutions. From now on, Rexel will offer Ajax security and automation solutions to its customers in Finland.

After a successful venture with Rexel in Sweden, Ajax Systems is confident in this partnership on the new market. The cooperation will go beyond Ajax intrusion products to cover fire detection, leak prevention, and automation solutions as well.

“Rexel has already demonstrated successful cooperation with Ajax Systems in other European countries. The partnership has offered new business opportunities to both parties, and there are more to come thanks to a wider product offering in Finland. Rexel’s strong local presence and numerous stores across the country are a chance for Ajax products to influence a wide range of clients, which is particularly important given a new fire safety law in Finland,” says Michael Hygild Toxverd, Regional Sales Director Northern Europe.

“Rexel has invested heavily in building a range of automation solutions, and Ajax will play an important role in this strategy. Both Rexel and Ajax aim to offer innovative security approaches, making it easy to agree on this collaboration. We are confident that our cooperation will be successful and beneficial for both parties. Ajax’s innovative and high-quality products enhance Rexel’s existing range, providing electrical contractors with a valuable new addition to their offerings, ” comments Marko Penttinen, Procurement and Marketing Director, at Rexel.

Ajax Systems has been officially present on the Finnish market since 2018. Over the past two years, Ajax product portfolio has been expanding with solutions that align with Rexel’s business focus. Smart sockets, light switches, outlets, an expanded fire protection portfolio, and CCTV systems can take the partnership between the companies to the next level for better customer service in Finland.

Dallmeier Achieves ISO 27001 Accreditation

Video technology manufacturer, Dallmeier has received ISO 27001 certification for its Information Security Management System (ISMS). The international standard for information security management ensures that companies meet the highest standards of data protection and data security.

As IoT components, surveillance cameras, software and recording systems are just as vulnerable as other IT systems. In the context of cyber security and data protection, customers should take extra care when selecting a suitable manufacturer, as the integrity of the supplier is a crucial link in the security chain. ISO 27001 certification confirms that Dallmeier electronic has effective processes and systems in place to protect sensitive data, minimise risks and continuously improve information security.

For customers of Dallmeier electronic, ISO 27001 certification provides the assurance that their data and systems are optimally protected against possible threats when using Dallmeier hardware and software products. Dallmeier electronic relies on state-of-the-art security protocols and regular security audits to ensure the highest level of security.

Meeting NIS-2 requirements

For operators of critical infrastructure systems and all essential and important entities, the video security manufacturer’s ISO 27001 certification also provides the basis for being able to fulfil their own NIS-2 requirements with regard to a secure supply chain today and in the future. In addition to the ISO 27001 certification, the Regensburg-based manufacturer has for some time been ensuring compliance with the GDPR and the NDAA (National Defence Authorisation Act) in its solutions. This is particularly important for customers who operate internationally and need to rely on legal and secure data processing.

Armin Biersack, CSO at Dallmeier electronic, explains: “The ISO 27001 certification is an important milestone for Dallmeier electronic and underlines our commitment to the highest security standards and the protection of our customers’ sensitive data. Combined with our existing NDAA and GDPR compliance, our customers can be assured that they are working with a trusted partner that understands their security and privacy needs and meets current and future regulatory requirements.”

Secure Logiq Partners With Ivideon

Secure Logiq and Ivideon have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation and delivering unparalleled video surveillance capabilities.

Harnessing the strength of both companies, this partnership merges Secure Logiq’s advanced server technology with Ivideon’s comprehensive cloud solutions, creating a hybrid approach that meets the dynamic needs of modern video surveillance.

With over 12 years of experience, Ivideon has emerged a rapidly growing provider of cloud video surveillance and analytics, serving more than 5 million users in over 120 countries. Recently, the company introduced Ivideon Node (a local extension of Ivideon Cloud) and Ivideon Smart Bridge, designed for on-premises solutions.

Supporting up to 300 cameras per server, Ivideon Node facilitates seamless integration into hybrid networks, ensuring high fault tolerance of local storage while capitalising on the benefits of cloud surveillance. Ivideon Smart Bridge further enhances this synergy with AI-powered capabilities such as face recognition, visitor counters, footfall traffic analysis, ANPR, fire & smoke detection, and access control systems.

Key features of the partnership include rapid scalability, seamless integration via API & SDK, advanced analytics and reporting tools. These solutions facilitate effortless upgrades, enabling existing CCTV setups to transition seamlessly to cloud integration without camera replacement.

“We are very excited to partner with Ivideon to enrich our video surveillance offerings,” said Hayley Joseph, Markets & Channel Manager of Secure Logiq. “This collaboration allows us to deliver the best of both worlds—high-performance on-premises servers alongside advanced cloud-based solutions.”

“With a truly hybrid solution catering to diverse needs, we anticipate this partnership to deliver reliability, intelligence and scalability to our clients,” noted Iliya Ilchishin, Head of International Sales of Ivideon. “We’re eager to see what the future holds with Secure Logiq.”

Veridos Offers Convenient and Safe Mobile ID Documents

With VeriGO MobileID, users can carry all their important ID documents wherever they go – digitally, securely and conveniently. Government authorities can now offer their citizens a modern and convenient way to manage all government documents on their smartphones. The goal is to create a new level of security for public and private use cases through efficient and digital verification processes.

Whether checking into a hotel, travelling or renting a car, verifying one’s identity with official ID documents is an integral part of our everyday lives. Instead of continuing to rely solely on physical documents and their security features for identification, VeriGO MobileID’s innovative technology relies on unique encryption processes that allow the authenticity of a document to be verified quickly, easily and electronically.

Designed as a mobile-first solution, the application requires only a smartphone or tablet and is not dependent on an internet connection. With VeriGO MobileID, users can conveniently store all forms of traditional physical ID documents such as driver’s licenses, health insurance cards or ID cards in a secure environment. Veridos presents a comprehensive digital solution that combines all types of digital proof of identity and is available to users anytime, anywhere. Prioritizing privacy and data protection needs, citizens are free to decide the private data they want to share, when and with whom. For example, if only proof of age is required, the rest of the ID, including address and other information, can remain private.

“VeriGO MobileID allows users to carry all their important personal documents directly on the device they use the most every day – their smartphone,” says Nicholas Larter, Senior Solution Manager at Veridos. “The digitalization of proof of identity as an extension to physical documents will simplify many processes in our daily lives. With VeriGO MobileID, citizens can carry all important documents digitally and securely at all times and control what personal data they want to share with whom and when.”

With VeriGO MobileID, users can carry all their important ID documents wherever they go – digitally, securely and conveniently.