Siemens has appointed Susanne Seitz as CEO of the Buildings Business Unit, which is part of Smart Infrastructure. The unit is a newly formed business unit which brings together all Siemens’ buildings-related businesses into one entity, effective October 1, 2024.

With a combined portfolio of products, software and services, the Buildings Business Unit is a technology partner for digital transformation, focused on reliable and cost-efficient building operations, decarbonisation and energy efficiency, as well as successful business operations for customers across wide-ranging industries.

“Making existing and new buildings more sustainable has never been more urgent. After all, buildings generate more than 40 percent of annual global CO2 emissions and we have a responsibility to drive their decarbonisation,” said Matthias Rebellius, managing board member and CEO of Smart Infrastructure. “Smarter buildings bring value to their owners, users, operators and to the world around them. I am confident in the newly-formed leadership team. Together with the combined expertise of almost 30,000 people globally, we can take our leadership position in the buildings market to the next level and pave the way to smart buildings of the future.”

The Buildings Business Unit works with customers and with an expanding ecosystem of partners across more than 60 countries and in key industries, including healthcare, data centres, higher education, commercial real estate, pharmaceutical and life science, and food and beverage. The business unit’s portfolio includes products for building control, fire safety and security, automation and operation, data-driven services, decarbonisation programmes and software, including Building X, Siemens’ scalable digital building platform to digitalise, manage and optimise building operations.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to grow this dynamic business. With innovative technology we can accelerate the transformation of buildings to make them smarter, self-adaptive and more autonomous, harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence, IT/OT convergence and digital services. This supports our customers in reducing their emissions and costs while improving user experience in buildings,” said Seitz.

Based in Zug, Switzerland, Seitz previously served as the Head of Sales and Marketing at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, leading the transformation towards digital sales and marketing globally. Prior to that, she was Executive Vice President EMEA at Landis+ Gyr and Member of the Group Executive Management.

For some 16 years preceding this, Seitz held different positions at Siemens, including Head of Strategy and M&A, Head of Security, Vice President for the global buildings systems and solutions business. She is a Swiss native and holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Technology from ETH Zurich and an Executive MBA from the University of St. Gallen.

HID has launched its next-generation Fargo HDP5000e designed to deliver vibrant, high definition cards and IDs.

HID’s Isaac Young, VP & Head of Fargo, stated, “The HDP5000e is where unparalleled reliability meets exceptional usability and performance — setting a new standard for the everyday retransfer card printing experience.”

Built on the rock-solid foundation of the renowned HDP5000 printer series and proven retransfer technology over the last 25 years, the HID Fargo HDP5000e ID card printer emerges as the next iteration of this market-leading solution, poised to redefine the standards of reliability, usability and printing excellence.

Engineered for universities, medium-to-large businesses, healthcare facilities and government agencies who need retransfer printing technology to effectively personalise contactless cards and for any organization looking to switch from a higher-end, direct-to-card printer to a retransfer printing solution for improved image quality — the feature-rich Fargo HDP5000e is ideal.

Young concluded, “The HID Fargo HDP5000e card printer offers seventh-generation retransfer technology for every need — from sharp and vibrant photo ID cards to multi-functional, high-security ID badge and card applications, the customer-inspired Fargo HDP5000e is the solution of choice for superior image quality, ease-of-use and printer reliability.”

The new Fargo HDP5000e offers to deliver high-level performance. With an increased card throughput and greater Ethernet speed than its HDP5000-series predecessors, the HDP5000e also boasts an advanced electronics platform — ensuring faster and more precise control over the printing process, resulting in crisper text and more vivid imagery. Additionally, the printer’s enhanced memory and processing capabilities allow for more efficient handling of print jobs, especially in high-volume environments.

Boasting exceptional reliability from its reinforced connection points to its streamlined module attachment, the HDP5000e is designed for dependability inside and out. The printer’s connectivity reinforcements strengthen and protect USB, Ethernet and power cable connection points — while the printer’s streamlined module attachment helps eliminate common issues such as internal card jams and misalignment.

The HDP5000e’s user-friendly Smartscreen interface in high-definition, graphical OLED provides easy-to-understand notifications and helpful, walk-through prompts for setup, maintenance and troubleshooting. In addition, the printer’s Workbench diagnostic utility with its Color Assist spot-color matching tool is conveniently built right into the printer driver so users have immediate access to everything they need via a single driver download. Should maintenance be required, the HDP5000e’s thoughtful design allows for easy, hassle-free access to the card path, main board, and film and ribbon drawer assemblies without the need for tools or special expertise.

The printer’s unique and inclusive resin scramble data protection feature effectively scrambles and subsequently conceals information printed with a resin panel. Used ribbon panels are thus rendered indecipherable, safeguarding the cardholder data from fraudulent use.  Moreover, the HDP5000e includes built-in AES-256 data encryption, support for UV printing and offers optional locks for additional peace of mind, and so providing security from end to end.

The newly launched Genetec Cloudlink 110 is the latest addition to company’s line of cloud-managed security appliances. This compact device is specifically designed to simplify video management in low-density deployments, providing a versatile solution that enables customers to transition to cloud or hybrid environments at their own pace.

With a micro form factor, support for up to eight cameras, and 1 Tb of local storage on an ultra-endurance micro-SD card, Cloudlink 110 is designed for smaller sites within larger deployments and locations with limited hardware space.

The Cloudlink 110 offers to enhance video workload optimisation and seamless cloud integration, ensuring interoperability between local and cloud environments in hybrid deployments. Supporting both local and cloud storage, it enables efficient communication between satellite locations and centralised headquarters. Its flexible hybrid storage also offers a straightforward transition to cloud or hybrid environments. By enabling organisations to use their existing cameras, Cloudlink 110 reduces the need for significant new hardware purchases.

This makes Cloudlink particularly well suited for sectors such as retail, where it can simplify operations across multiple store locations; cities, where it helps government agencies manage security within tight budgets; and healthcare, where it supports the remote monitoring of smaller facilities like satellite clinics.

“We are transforming physical security with our hybrid cloud solutions,” said Christian Morin, Vice President of Product Engineering, Genetec Inc. “Our multi-workload appliances, capable of handling video, access control, intrusion, and more, allow organizations to achieve their business objectives with a single device. As we expand our solutions, these appliances will be the cornerstone of resilience and performance, unlocking broad capabilities to meet evolving security needs.”

Ease of use is central to the design of the Cloudlink 110. With cloud-managed automatic updates, customers benefit from the continuous delivery of new features and updates to ensure that the system remains secure and running at top efficiency, with minimal intervention. This eliminates concerns about compatibility issues or disruptive upgrades, allowing customers to focus on their core operations without the need for specialised technical expertise.

Hanwha Vision has released the XRN-426S-1T recorder – a compact NVR with an built-in 1Tb solid-state drive (SSD) that supports AI search, when integrated with Hanwha Vision AI cameras, as well as resolutions of up to 4K. With a solid-state drive instead of a traditional hard drive, this recorder offers a silent and reliable solution.

The recorder’s compact size of just 20cm by 14cm means it is highly flexible and versatile in its applications. The XRN-426S-1T is particularly well suited to more confined spaces, in which a compact recorder is an advantage, for example hallways, lobbies, information desks, residential areas and smaller retail sites. The recorder is up to 50% smaller than comparative 4-channel models, offering competitive features such as AI search, video playback and export, and event rule management.

Quiet and discreet

The discreet recorder is silent owing to its smart design, which means a fan is not needed to circulate air to cool the unit. Furthermore the recorder is complemented with a wide range of installation options, including a supplied Vesa bracket for mounting on the back of a monitor. A separate bracket is supplied for tabletop or wall installation, to ensure maximum flexibility.

AI search for improved efficiency

AI metadata search makes it easy for operators to find and view event footage – to manage events as they unfold, and for post-event investigations. For example, operators are able to check the times that a vehicle entered or exited a car park, or when out-of-hours staff, such as maintenance or cleaning personnel, came on-site. The recorder supports intelligent video analytics such as virtual line-crossing or loitering detection. When this, and other events occur, the recorder can trigger an action based on predefined rules, such as sending an email or mobile push notifications to alert the operator.

Footage can be viewed using Wisenet Mobile or Wisenet Viewer, giving operators flexibility on how they access and manage video recording. An intuitive and customisable display allows managers to simply zoom in on details while fisheye dewarping provides clear images without distortion.

SALTO Wecosystem, a leading access and identity management solutions developer and manufacturer is making a strategic investment in Belter, a dynamic parcel locker solutions startup based in The Netherlands.

The investment represents a shared vision to modernise and co-innovate the parcel delivery industry through advanced smart delivery solutions and next-generation OOH (Out Of Home) parcel locker technology.

“We’re combining our shared vision with Belter’s innovative parcel solutions to change the way parcels reach their destination while setting new standards for security, convenience, flexibility, and sustainability. It’s our shared focus to adapt to evolving urban and parcel industry dynamics while revolutionizing the way we ship and receive packages, when possible, with smarter and more sustainable alternatives,” said Marc Gomez, CEO of SALTO Wecosystem.

As the logistics industry handles increasing package deliveries, there is a growing need to find more sustainable ways to package, transport, deliver, and return parcels. Cities are under mounting pressure to lower emissions and reduce congestion, yet consumers expect both convenience and speedy delivery pickups. Belter provides smart, autonomous locker compartments in assorted sizes that are customizable to daily volume requirements.

“We’re inspired to leverage our respective strengths and expertise to shape the future of parcel delivery. Our investment reinforces our commitment to driving growth and delivering innovative solutions” Elmar Hartmann, CEO of Gantner, a SALTO Wecosystem company that offers smart electronic locker solutions.

Belter Founder Rick Voogt expressed enthusiasm, highlighting the investment’s potential to drive impactful advancements in the parcel delivery infrastructure.

“SALTO Wecosystem’s investment and collaboration will help Belter expand its business and advance the development and modernisation of our parcel delivery infrastructure. This will help us better serve customers and our logistics operating partners, leveraging SALTO Wecosystem’s smart access technology and expertise,” said Voogt.

SALTO Wecosystem’s seed investment in Belter signifies a commitment to driving growth and innovation in the parcel delivery industry.

Siemens has agreed to acquire California-based Trayer Engineering Corporation, a leader in the design and manufacturing of medium voltage secondary distribution switchgear suitable for outdoor and below ground applications.

Trayer specialises in hermetically sealed padmount and submersible switchgear, resistant to extreme weather conditions. The company will provide complementary technologies to the Electrification and Automation Business Unit at Siemens, to further support the market trend of undergrounding overhead electrical networks, increasing resilience of the North American distribution grids. Siemens, as a leading player in the Electrification and Automation industry, will increase the availability of Trayer’s leading submersible and padmount switchgear portfolio by its widespread presence in the market.

“We see a significant growth opportunity in secondary power distribution, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. By combining forces, we will provide an end-to-end portfolio to our customers by unlocking resources and competencies to serve this growing demand,” said Stephan May, CEO of Electrification and Automation at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. “Our digital offerings and Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, Electrification X, complements Trayer’s resilient solutions to enable utilities and municipalities to upgrade their distribution grids and drive grid efficiency for outdoor and below ground applications.”

Maintenance-free switchgear

Trayer has a long history in producing maintenance-free switchgear of the highest quality, designed to thrive in the most challenging circumstances. Its submersible distribution switchgear is ideally suited for use in areas prone to flooding or extreme weather conditions, providing reliable electrical distribution while being protected from water and environmental damage. Whereas padmount switchgear is typically installed at ground level in residential, commercial, and industrial areas, offering easy access for safety inspections and operation while ensuring reliable, safe, and efficient electrical distribution for underground electrical grids.

“By joining a 175+ year old, established industry leader, Trayer sees accelerated growth, investment, and employee opportunities,” said John Trayer, CEO, Trayer.

Trayer was founded as a family business in 1962 and currently employs 130 people. It will continue to operate as a separate legal entity, under the banner “A Siemens Business”.

Andrew Weir, ADT’s Director of Hardware Engineering at ADT, was recently named to the Z-Wave Board of Directors.

He lauded the Z-Wave Alliance’s stringent certification programme, which grants the Z-Wave-certified badge only to products that meet the highest standards of interoperability and quality.

“This certification ensures that all Z-Wave devices deliver reliable performance well before they are ever paired with ADT,” Weir said. “That provides essential confidence for us and for our customers.”

Founded in 2005, the Z-Wave Alliance – a global consortium dedicated to the advancement of Z-Wave technology – has more than 700 member companies, ranging from large multinationals to cutting-edge start-ups. It encourages innovation by providing resources to its members, including technical assistance, development tools and access to a network of industry experts.

When connecting an ADT security system, for example, with other smart home devices, it’s easy to take for granted that everything works together seamlessly and securely. There’s no need to juggle multiple apps or struggle to keep all the components in sync. This is powered by Z-Wave, a wireless communication protocol that creates a unified, secure network, making homes both smarter and safer.

ADT has long embraced Z-Wave for its ease and interoperability. This means that Z-Wave-certified devices — including lights, locks, thermostats and more — work together out of the box to ensure an efficient smart home setup.

The company’s approach extends beyond simply integrating Z-Wave products. ADT is a principal member of the Z-Wave Alliance and there have been numerous ADT employees on the Alliance’s board of directors.

“Our involvement with the Alliance means that we get to play a ground-level role in pushing the state-of-the-art, guaranteeing that ADT systems continue to work flawlessly with the widest variety of smart home solutions,” said Tim Rader, ADT’s Vice President of Product Engineering Quality and Labs.

“ADT and the Z-Wave Alliance will keep pushing the frontiers of interoperability and innovation,” Rader said. “As Z-Wave continues to evolve with Long Range, AI and more, we will stay proactively involved in the pursuit of even more sophisticated and user-friendly solutions.”

In the coming years, ADT plans to work with Z-Wave to empower fully autonomous homes, where every device across an entire property intuitively adapts to the user’s habits and needs. Long Range and AI-enabled products will optimize energy use, security and comfort across distances, creating a truly intelligent and connected living environment.

The global electronic home locks market size is expected to reach USD 5.68 billion by 2030, registering to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2024 to 2030 according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. High demand for home automation and advanced security technologies, such as electronics home locks, is expected to be the key factors driving the market. Rising construction activities in developed countries including U.S., Germany, U.K., and France are also expected to assist in growth of this market.

Moreover, integration of innovative technologies, such as Near-Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, and voice and face recognition, is expected to boost the product demand. North America was the dominant regional market in 2018 and is estimated to retain its leading position throughout the forecast period.

Geographical spread

The growth is attributed to the rapid expansion of the construction industry, especially in residential sector, in the region. However, Asia Pacific is projected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period due to high demand for advanced security solutions. The product demand is driven by the increasing residential construction activities, the trend of home automation, and disposable income levels in the region. In addition, a rising number of branded retail outlets, especially in India and China, is anticipated to contribute to the market in growth. The keypad segment held the largest market revenue share of 45.8% in 2023, although the biometrics segment is beginning to show movement.

 Smart phone and exposure to digital media help drive the market

Residential segment dominated the market in 2023. The growing concern for home security has driven homeowners to seek advanced security solutions, with electronic locks offering enhanced protection through features like remote access, biometric recognition, and real-time alerts.

Prominent companies in the electronic home locks market, and mentioned by the researchers include, Assa Abloy; Vivint; Honeywell; Allegion; Dormakaba; Godrej; Spectrum Brands; Samsung; Salto Systems; and Master Lock Company.