May 9, 2026
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Technology and Products

Unifying wireless digital locks and smart key access gives security managers much more control

Sometimes a digital system cannot cover all the openings an organization needs. Readers, escutcheons and security locks can equip many doors. But what if they also want to deploy intelligent key-operated locking for alarm boxes, medicine stores, server rooms or power units? Until now, the only secure option was to run two systems in parallel. A new integration between two digital ecosystems puts facilities managers in control like never before.

Author: Thomas Schulz Director & Head of Marketing ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA

E-mail: thomas.schulz@assaabloy.com

The SMARTair® wireless access system, part of a suite of connected Digital Access Solutions from ASSA ABLOY, now enables management of CLIQÒ programmable smart keys from the same software interface. When businesses extend their SMARTair digital access solution with CLIQ battery-free cylinders, they implement complete oversight for their premises, including any outdoor spaces. There is no cabling and no more need for mechanical keys – just smart, flexible management.

When CLIQ electronic and electromechanical cylinders are deployed within a SMARTair-controlled installation, security teams can manage even more doors. They can implement digital access almost anywhere, without drilling or causing damage to the building structure. The broad range of openings already covered by SMARTair are supplemented with a range of more than 60 CLIQ and eCLIQ cylinder types, making every access point secure. SMARTair’s intelligent TS1000 software manages and monitors every opening and credential, including smart keys and mobile keys if required.

“For healthcare, education, multi-residential properties, and many more types of building, this new integration puts so much more power in your hands,” says Mikel Gaztañaga, Sales Manager at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “Building managers gain transparent oversight over every type of opening, from one familiar software interface. It helps them to meet the growing demands of compliance and to control access much farther into and through their buildings.”

“With this new integration of SMARTair and CLIQ, you make life more convenient for everyone who manages or uses your premises. Facilities teams work smarter and more efficiently. Users enjoy a streamlined, unified experience right from the front door.”

One solution, maximum reach

By bringing CLIQ devices into a SMARTair solution, organizations gain fully integrated control and total traceability of access. They can extend access control even to remote locations with durable CLIQ cylinders and programmable keys, all from the familiar SMARTair TS1000 software interface. In addition, SMARTair’s Wireless online management option gives security teams real-time system control via wireless HUBs. For added convenience, every CLIQ key has an RFID chip inside which can be programmed to unlock authorized doors secured with SMARTair battery-powered devices. Aligning CLIQ with SMARTair gives facilities managers the choice of mobile credentials or RFID credentials (smart cards, fobs or badges) for SMARTair devices, smart keys for CLIQ cylinders or smart keys with RFID tags for both SMARTair and CLIQ devices.

SMARTair and CLIQ in action at a Spanish football stadium

This powerful new integration is already up-and-running at Spanish football club, UD Almería. For their stadium, they chose SMARTair digital access with additional centralized management of CLIQ smart keys and cable-free cylinders. All users and access points are managed online from their SMARTair TS1000 Web software. SMARTair Wireless Online management gives staff real-time control and oversight of offices, locker rooms and physio suites. Stadium staff use customized RFID cards which double as their ID badges. Visitors and external contractors receive time-limited access via mobile keys sent to their own SMARTair OpenowÒ app. It’s convenient for them and simplifies visitor management. CLIQ cylinders protect technical rooms and interior service zones. Maintenance staff and security personnel, including matchday police, carry a programmable CLIQ key with their individual access permissions.

“The complementary benefits of SMARTair and CLIQ ensures Almería’s needs are met without compromising on security or flexibility,” adds Gaztañaga. “This innovative hybrid installation ensures their diverse access needs were met. Only ASSA ABLOY could provide such a connected, unified solution.”

To learn more about SMARTair/CLIQ integration, download a free Solution Guide at: https://assaabloy.com/emeia-blueprint/en/documents/solutions/topics/access-control/smartair/AA_SMARTair-CLIQ-Integration_Brochure_2026-01_EMEIA.pdf

Managing access in education: how and where digitalization makes a positive impact

Across Europe, the Middle East and beyond, schools, colleges and universities look to modernize security while preserving openness. Their duty of care extends to protecting people, property and data, yet education sites must also enable the free movement of staff, students and visitors. At the same time, budgets are tight and expectations for user experience are high. The right access management strategy must reconcile safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness – and when implemented effectively, can benefit daily operations.

Education sites always host multiple user-groups with different access needs, as well as schedules which shift constantly. Staff, students, contractors and other external users share the same spaces at different times of day. At sites which still rely on mechanical keys, often across large estates, management may be complex and time-consuming.

Lost or duplicated physical keys can expose entire premises to risk and require expensive rekeying. Manually updating permissions for thousands of users is inefficient. Outdated systems and protocols may make it difficult to monitor who is on site or to coordinate a rapid lockdown in an emergency. Facilities teams increasingly seek intelligent access solutions that provide real-time visibility, centralized control and reduced maintenance. An increasingly digital-native user-group, especially students, expects the convenience of digital solutions, including mobile keys stored on their personal smartphone.

Recent data underlines the urgency of a more connected approach to access. UK universities, for example, are at high risk of cyber breach, with perhaps millions of stolen credentials circulating on the dark web*. Such weaknesses illustrate a growing hybrid threat. If a single credential can open both doors and provide access to in-house networks, its compromise endangers the institution’s operations and reputation. To mitigate these risks, mobile digital credentials – instantly revocable, amendable and traceable – can help education facilities teams to close this gap. Reliable, digital physical security and access is now a fundamental building-block of the modern education institution.

The solution is access digitalization

Digitalization offers a coherent way forward. ASSA ABLOY has extensive experience in digitalizing access management for educational buildings, helping these institutions to create a secure, safe and convenient environment for students, teachers and visitors. A vast range of ASSA ABLOY digital solutions can protect people and valuable assets from the perimeter right into the heart of a building, all the way to intelligent locking for server racks which integrates seamlessly with almost any access management software. Schools and universities can choose to manage access rights on-premise, via a secure cloud, or with a choice of Software as a Service packages.

For security and facilities managers, programmable locks and credentials boost the responsiveness and efficiency of access management. Lost or stolen cards can be deactivated with a click, preventing unauthorized entry without the expense and hassle of replacing hardware. Rights are issued, amended or withdrawn remotely, backed by a full audit trail. Digital access also enhances flexibility. Smartphone or smart-card credentials can be configured for specific areas and time windows, supporting after-hours study or revenue-generating rentals, while maintaining control, for example. Facilities managers gain oversight across multiple buildings and can administer access off-site through intuitive software. The outcome is safer, more adaptable premises and a significant reduction in administrative effort – and therefore, costs.

For staff and students, the convenience and security of a digital credential gives them the peace of mind to move about the premises in safety and comfort.

European standards and regulation also support this digital shift. EN/IEC 60839 sets functional and interoperability requirements for digital access systems, while EN 179 and EN 1125 specify safe egress for emergency exits. GDPR ensures personal and credential data are handled transparently, and biometric use is governed by national consent laws such as France’s CNIL or the UK Protection of Freedoms Act. In addition, the EU’s NIS2 Directive is bringing many academic research locations under its scope, obliging them to strengthen both digital and physical protections in line with the directive’s “all-hazards” approach to connected security. Institutions that fail to comply risk financial penalties, another clear incentive to modernize access infrastructure.

In this regulatory environment, investment to meet these evolving challenges is building. The European school and campus security market was valued at around EUR 0.92 billion in 2025, and continues to expand as educational facilities modernize and further digitalize access.

The impact of digitalization can be quick and significant, as these three real-world cases illustrate.

1. Staff and student security as the priority

For The Camp, a business-education provider based near Aix-en-Provence, France, security had to match its culture of innovation. Their site has offices, event areas, kitchens and on-site accommodation operating around the clock. Safety for a constantly changing population of residents and visitors required an access system able to adapt in real time.

Aperio® wireless devices are integrated with TIL Technologies’ platform to simplify management of access to the entire campus from a single interface. Permissions are updated instantly as staff, students and guests arrive or depart. Lost credentials are cancelled and reissued on demand. Defined profiles segment access to areas such as meeting or server rooms, keeping valuable assets secure even during busy events. Wireless devices also align with The Camp’s sustainability goals. Battery-powered operation reduces energy consumption compared with hard-wired systems and preserves the site’s architectural aesthetic. Security, flexibility and environmental responsibility work together.

2. Digitalizing key management for efficiency

At Vejle Friskole in Denmark, maintaining mechanical keys had consumed several hours each week. Lost keys caused disruption, and tracking who had access to which rooms was an onerous task.

The school installed SMARTair® wireless digital access system, an out-of-the-box solution managed with straightforward software. Each teacher and student carries a programmed fob with individual permissions. When a credential goes missing, administrators simply update digital rights, instead of changing cylinders – saving money and time. This simple change has transformed daily administration. Security management now takes minutes rather than hours, freeing security staff time for other responsibilities. The system also supports flexible building use outside school hours, allowing safe access for events without adding workload or risk. For smaller schools without dedicated security staff, SMARTair provides an accessible, easily scalable route to digitalization.

3. Cutting costs and risk from lost keys

In Villiers-le-Bel, near Paris, the financial impact of lost keys could run to thousands of euros per incident. Staff at the Municipal Technical Centre carried multiple keys for different sites; when one went missing, entire suites of locks required replacement. Administrators digitalized with CLIQ® electromechanical locking cylinders and programmable keys. Using the CLIQ Web Manager software, lost keys are now cancelled immediately and new permissions issued remotely. Each programmable key stores the user’s specific access rights, replacing dozens of physical keys with one secure, flexible credential.

The new system has reduced both cost and complexity. Staff no longer collect keys from a central office, and administrators monitor access across schools and other municipal buildings via a standard web browser. It enhances protection for sensitive sites while keeping the solution scalable and within budget.

Towards smarter, safer campuses

The education sector’s digital transition is accelerating, in both learning delivery and facilities management. Rapid change in access is being driven by a need for operational efficiency; national and regional regulations and compliance; and the fast-evolving risk landscape. NIS2 adds further urgency specifically at universities where sensitive research is conducted. Whether in a small primary school or a multi-site university, wireless and intelligent-key technologies enable cost-effective control across every opening.

Hybrid cyber–physical threats highlight the importance of secure credential management, for example: Microsoft estimate that more than 40% of UK universities face attack on a weekly basis. Mobile digital credentials, quickly and remotely cancelled if lost or compromised, are one powerful defence. Integrated, standards-based digital access at schools and universities across the EMEIA region can underpin not only compliance, but also the trust and flexibility essential to delivering education’s mission.

To learn more about Digital Access Solutions from ASSA ABLOY, visit www.assaabloy.com/group/emeia/solutions/topics/access-control

 

Axis Communications Insights: Future proofing mobility in cities

Keeping public transport and mobility services fit for purpose is a principal challenge for city authorities. Recent studies show that leading cities take important steps to develop people- and planet-centric transportation options. Surveillance technology plays a vital role in delivering the high quality, efficient, and safe services these cities provide. Here’s how. 
Written by: Anders Grafström

ThoughtLab’s recent From Future Vision to Urban Reality report, sponsored by Axis, explores the most effective strategies and digital solutions city leaders are using to prepare for the future. When it comes to urban mobility, the importance of real-time data is front-and-center. Surveillance technology provides much of this data as well as valuable insights used to power services. Transport authorities use it to enable systems such as traffic management, parking, public transport, and digital payments.

But knowing where and how to invest is a challenge in itself. Fortunately, the nature of surveillance technology means that any pilot scheme or local initiative immediately provides a feedback loop of learning, improvement, and verification ahead of major city-wide investments thanks to their rich, real-time data. This is also what makes surveillance technology such a vital component of digital twin initiatives. In fact, traffic management is the leading use case for digital twin modelling, with cities across the world already benefiting from their application.

Here are just a few examples of the top ways future-ready cities are leveraging surveillance technology to enhance their urban mobility, taken from our latest ebook, Surveillance technology for future-ready cities. Our report supplements the ThoughtLab study, providing further context, example use cases, and tangible next steps for city authorities through the lens of surveillance technologies.

Download the full ebook, here.

Smart signaling

Getting traffic light signaling right can be the difference between gridlock and free flowing traffic. Surveillance systems are used to collect queue length data at these hotspots. By collating data and identifying patterns over hours, days, and weeks, systems can present optimized signal timing profiles. Similarly, real-time data can also be used to control variable speed limits or open and close lanes, using pre-set rules.

Identifying the causes of accidents

Understanding how and why accidents occur requires data. Surveillance footage provides you with detailed accounts that enable forensic levels of analysis into driver behavior trends. You can identify dangerous behavior patterns such as sharp lane changes or stops, drivers heading in the wrong direction, as well as speeding hot spots and red-light violations. You can then use this analysis to inform new policies and preventive measures, and then use it to gauge their effectiveness.

Rapid incident response

In the same vein, surveillance systems can provide automatic incident detection. Cameras can detect unusual or sharp changes in direction, or when a car stops in the middle of a road. When an incident occurs they can then trigger escalation protocols, such as notifying staff or first responders. Smoke and heat detection provides further valuable information. All of which helps expedite response times and can save lives.

Intelligent parking

Surveillance data supports many functions vital to parking systems. As well as spotting spaces to inform availability signage, license plate recognition enables frictionless automated payment systems. Both of these help to reduce bottlenecks at entrances and make journeys smoother.

You can also use these cameras to spot parking violations, such as identifying double parking, overtime, illegal parking, and even measuring whether vehicles have parked far enough from corners, as well as your typical security functions.

Encouraging alternative travel

One of the most frequently cited deterrents to using alternative forms of travel is a lack of safety, especially at night. In-vehicle installations on trains and buses make real-time, multi-camera, interior and exterior footage readily available to security personnel, even while vehicles are in motion. This enables virtual patrols of vehicles, proactive monitoring during busy periods or known events, and quick reactions to security alerts.

Outside, in parks and on main pedestrian routes, smart poles, equipped with lighting, cameras, speakers, and intercom help points can provide much needed assurance to the public, helping create established safe walking and travel routes.

Learn more

Surveillance technology doesn’t only help cities tackle mobility challenges. Axis-powered solutions are supporting local authorities across the world drive new efficiencies, and save money, while improving sustainability, safety and the lived experience of citizens.

Hytera: Elevating Luxury Hospitality with Hytera DMR Solutions

In partnership with Cobra Center, Hytera implemented a state-of-the-art Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) system, enhancing operational performance and the guest experience at the exclusive One&Only resorts in Greece.

By: Bella Liu, Communications Specialist, Hytera Communications Europe; Email: bella.liu@hytera-europe.com

One&Only Resorts

One&Only Resorts, a globally recognized leader in ultra-luxury hospitality, operates some of the most prestigious properties worldwide and maintains uncompromising standards across all aspects of its operations, particularly in security and guest services. Seamless, reliable, and discreet communication across large and aesthetically sensitive environments is an essential part of the brand promise. In partnership with Cobra Center, Hytera implemented a state-of-the-art Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) system, enhancing operational performance and further strengthening the exceptional guest experience at the One&Only resorts in Athens and on Kea Island.

Challenges

The project focused on two key Greek locations: One&Only Aesthesis in Vouliagmeni near Athens, and the One&Only resort on Kea Island. Implementing a reliable communication system while ensuring full coverage across a luxury resort presented unique challenges, particularly for a brand with exacting standards like One&Only. Key aspects considered by Cobra Center engineers when designing the solution included:

  • Seamless Coverage: Ensuring stable and clear signal reception across large properties, including multiple buildings, outdoor areas, and complex architectural layouts, without compromising communication quality.
  • Discreet Integration: Installing communication infrastructure without disrupting the resort’s elegant aesthetic. This required innovative antenna concealment and unobtrusive equipment placement in line with One&Only’s design philosophy.
  • Operational Efficiency and Security: Meeting the needs of various departments, from Security and Emergency Response to Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, and Event Management, while adhering to strict security protocols and providing encrypted, interference-free communication.
  • Eco-friendly Alignment: Ensuring the technical solution aligned with the group’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Solution

In collaboration with Cobra Center, Hytera designed and deployed a robust, reliable, and discreet DMR communication network tailored to One&Only’s specific requirements, offering a range of advanced features:

  • Multi-site DMR Tier II Network: A resilient core system featuring four Hytera HR1065 UHF repeaters, interconnected for extended coverage and redundancy. Supported by an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), the system ensures continuous operation even during power interruptions.
  • Encrypted Communication: The network uses encryption to provide secure and private transmissions, essential for management and security purposes.
  • Bluetooth for Security Personnel: Select radios with Bluetooth capabilities were issued to security staff, enabling discreet and hands-free operation.
  • Tailored Programming: Radios were configured to enable smooth communication among key operational departments, including Security, Emergency Response, Food & Beverage, Housekeeping, and Event Management.

Results

The implementation of the Hytera DMR system has significantly improved operational efficiency, security, and service quality at the One&Only resorts, providing superior audio quality and full coverage across all areas—including previously challenging locations. Additionally, Cobra Center engineers optimized group settings in the system backend, enabling clear and concise information on radio interfaces while preserving the resorts’ luxurious ambiance and visual integrity.

Testimonial

“Establishing reliable communication across our resorts initially appeared to be a major challenge. However, the project was executed with great success. The equipment provided laid the foundation for uninterrupted and user-friendly communication. We are fully satisfied and plan to continue our partnership with both companies,” said Nikos Ornstein, Purchasing Manager, together with Loannis Dimitropoulos, Security & Loss Prevention Manager of One&Only Resorts.

ICT: Different Ways to Upgrade to Smart Access Control

Many buildings and sites are running on access control and intrusion detection technology that is ten, maybe even fifteen years old. The hardware is still functional, doors open, alarms are set, but these legacy systems often act as roadblocks when a client wants to modernise their building management or bring new applications onboard.

The need for change is usually driven by compliance, security, or sustainability targets. However, like every infrastructure project, it had to be financed and the cost: the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) will define the feasibility and timeline of the new access control installation. Fortunately, upgrading doesn’t always have to be an “all-or-nothing” scenario.

How does access control improve operational efficiency?

Beyond enhancing security, modern access control is an enabler for operational efficiency and energy savings.

By unifying various systems into one central platform, customers can see a direct impact on their bottom line. For instance, an open access control system can automatically switch off air conditioning if a window is left open or turn off lights and arm an area, when no one is present.

In high-traffic environments, integrating the access control platform with turnstiles and lift systems, manages the flow of people badging in and directs them to the fastest lift for their destination. Saving a few minutes for thousands of people everyday amounts to significant productivity gains.

Is a full system replacement always necessary?

For new builds or extensions, a brand-new system is standard. But for retrofits on a tight budget, a full “rip and replace” isn’t the only option.

A smarter approach is a phased migration. A thorough assessment of the existing infrastructure will determine whether legacy equipment is compatible with modern controllers. This allows to upgrade the “brains” of the system while keeping the existing cabling and peripheral hardware.

Phased migration as the one offered by ICT decreases project costs and lowers the risk of disruption, a huge benefit if the organisation operates 24/7. The customer gets immediate access to new functionalities and third-party integrations supported by platforms like Protege GX, while the initial capital investment remains manageable.

How to ensure continuity during migration?

If a legacy system is running alongside a new one, how are the users managed? Is there a risk of database mismatch?

The critical point is ensuring the legacy and new access control servers are constantly synchronising data to avoid discrepancies in the user database which could lock people out or leave areas unsecured. ICT offers DataSync software specifically for this purpose, ensuring a seamless transition.

What financial factors should be considered?

The decision about which technology to select impacts not just the initial CAPEX, but the ongoing Operational Expenditures (OPEX).

Customers should understand the licensing models. Are there any recurring fees, is the cost capped over a certain number of licenses? They should know aboout the structure of the maintenance cost and upgrade cost.

Choosing an open technology that integrates with legacy equipment and third-party solutions offers financial protection. It means the system can scale and adapt to new requirements without needing another expensive overhaul in a few years.

Access control is a central pillar between security and operations. By helping organisations navigate the balance between necessary upgrades and available capital, it helps create a successful and affordable solution.

Kamir: Fit Faster. Save Time: Introducing Apollo’s New Discovery Base Sounder

Apollo Fire Detectors announced the latest addition to its portfolio of life-saving devices – the Discovery Base Sounder. It is engineered to transform the installation process and give you the unparalleled combination of ease, speed, and reliability. No more stripped wires or loose connections – installation is now easier than ever before.

Simply twist and click. It’s that simple. With previous models being – in the words of one installer – “well known for being awkward to install… [and] time consuming”, we knew that something needed fixing. Now, with its modular design, installation is up to four times faster, giving you peace of mind and letting you to work more efficiently.

Adjustable volume levels and tone settings ensure it adapts seamlessly to changing regulations – no matter the environment. Whether in a school, office block, or residential building, the Discovery Base Sounder allows you to adapt to every situation.

Product Manager Jason Green says “The Discovery Base Sounder was made to meet the needs of installers, no matter the complexity of the project. Ultimately, it is designed to make their life easier.”

Apollo goes further to ensure peace of mind. As the only UK fire detector manufacturer with an in-house fire lab and a dedicated team of validation experts, each product is rigorously tested. And tested again. From dust and insect intrusion tests to evaluations in extreme temperatures and humidity, every detail is considered. It’s this precision that makes Apollo a sound you can rely on and a name you can trust.

In moments that matter, hear Apollo. The Discovery Base Sounder doesn’t just deliver safety — it does so with care, reliability and decades of expertise – and faster than ever before. Keeping you safe from fire. Always.

Interested in learning more about the Discovery Base Sounder? Visit www.discoverybase.apollo-fire.co.uk.

About Apollo Fire Detectors

Apollo Fire Detectors is a leading manufacturer of fire detection solutions, dedicated to creating products that protect people and property from the devastating effects of fire. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability, Apollo Fire Detectors Ltd has established itself as a trusted partner in the fire safety industry, serving a global clientele.

AziTrend: How WMS + VMS Integration Is Redefining Modern Logistics

In today’s economy, where speed and accuracy separate profit from loss, warehouses have become critical nodes of the supply chain. Yet the operational complexity—tens of thousands of SKUs, thousands of storage locations, and constant order flows—puts enormous pressure on logistics teams. This is where a new technological standard emerges: the integration of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) with Video Management Systems (VMS) through AZiGuard platform.

Why WMS + VMS Integration Matters

Traditional incident investigation in a warehouse can take hours or even days. A lost parcel, a picking error, or a delivery dispute consumes time, money, and reputation. By synchronizing WMS transaction data with the exact video moments in which those events occurred, AZiGuard turns complex processes into 2–3 minute verifications.

Key advantages include near-instant incident search, where an operator filters an event in the WMS and the VMS immediately displays the precise moment and camera angle for verification, turning what once took hours into a matter of minutes. Operational costs are reduced through fewer manual investigations, fewer disputes and fewer internal interventions, resulting in measurable savings, particularly in high-volume warehouses. At the same time, greater transparency and credibility are achieved as every transaction becomes verifiable with video proof, giving retailers, couriers, pharmacies and marketplace operators a clear, unbiased source of truth. Finally, higher customer and partner satisfaction follows from faster claim resolution, clearer responsibility and increased trust across the entire supply chain.

Case Study: When Volume Explodes, Precision Becomes Critical

A large online retailer uses WMS and VMS integration to instantly reconstruct the journey of a lost parcel—from packing and collection to courier handoff and delivery—cutting incident investigation times by more than 50% and eliminating unfounded claims. In another example, a pharmaceutical warehouse using pick-by-voice and a high-speed conveyor has integrated both databases with AZiGuard’s video streams, enabling operators to locate every conveyor feeding point instantly, regardless of speed.

Through the AZiGuard ActiveStock module, warehouses gain advanced control over accuracy, including rapid loss investigation, delivery dispute resolution, clear responsibility assignment and quality verification of picking and packing. For facilities handling more than 50,000 SKUs, this level of automation shifts from a “nice-to-have” feature to a mission-critical capability.

The Future: AI, Prediction, and Full Automation

As order volumes rise and margins compress, the fusion of operational data with video analytics becomes the backbone of modern logistics. The next step is already emerging: AI that predicts errors, optimizes workflows, and detects anomalies before they become operational costs.

Integrating WMS and VMS is no longer a technological upgrade—it’s a competitive necessity. For high-volume operations, solutions like AZiGuard do far more than improve visibility; they build warehouses that are safer, more transparent, and significantly more profitable.

Igniting Safety: Bosch’s New Zagreb Experience Hub Redefines Fire Protection in the Adria Region

The opening of the Experience Hub in Zagreb is also a clear recognition of the local Bosch team and its long-standing contribution to the market. Built on nearly two decades of commitment, expertise, and close customer engagement, the Croatian team has played a key role in positioning Bosch Building Technologies as a trusted partner across the Adria region.

Equally important is the role of Bosch partners. Installers, designers, distributors, and integrators are at the heart of Bosch’s business model, transforming technology into reliable, compliant, and effective fire safety solutions. By investing in local training, flexible education formats, and direct partner support, Bosch reinforces the region’s strategic importance and confirms that sustainable growth in fire safety is only possible through strong local teams and strong partnerships.

Since entering the Croatian market in 2008, Bosch has steadily built its presence through projects, technological innovation, and close collaboration with partners across the Adria region and Southeast Europe. Over the years, the evolution from Bosch Security Systems to today’s Bosch Building Technologies division has reflected a broader transformation of the market itself—towards integrated, intelligent, and future-ready safety solutions. Within this journey, fire protection has emerged as a strategic growth pillar, driven by increasing regulatory demands, complex building environments, and the need for higher professional standards.

A significant milestone in this development is the opening of the Bosch Experience Hub for fire detection systems in Zagreb. Launched in 2025, the center represents more than an investment in infrastructure; it is a regional platform for education, innovation, and collaboration. As Danijel Jerković, Business Development Manager for Fire Safety Systems in the SEA region, explains, the Hub is designed to strengthen Bosch’s position by ensuring partners have direct access to the latest technologies, hands-on training, and practical expertise. At the same time, it creates a space where end users can better understand how advanced fire detection solutions protect people, assets, and business continuity.

Covering the entire Adria cluster—15 countries and nearly 80 million people—the Zagreb Experience Hub reflects the diversity of the region. Training programs and presentations are tailored to local regulations, market maturity, and technical requirements, ensuring relevance and real-world applicability. Installers, designers, integrators, and distributors benefit from certified, practice-oriented training that translates directly into higher-quality system design, installation, and commissioning.

From a technical perspective, the center is focused on Bosch’s AVENAR fire detection system. As consultant Nino Belicki highlights, the modular training environment allows participants to configure, program, and troubleshoot systems in realistic scenarios. This hands-on approach, combined with design training using Bosch’s Safety Systems Designer software, ensures that both installers and planners can deliver solutions precisely aligned with project needs. Certified training, valid for two years and complemented by further qualification paths, underlines Bosch’s long-term commitment to competence development.

Ultimately, the Zagreb Experience Hub strengthens the regional fire safety ecosystem—raising standards, accelerating technological adoption, and reinforcing trust across the value chain.

A Complete Security and Centralization Solution for a Leading Financial Institution

One of the most strategically important digital transformation projects in the financial sector was recently completed with the successful implementation of XPR – an access control and time attendance system that has established a new standard for efficiency and security. Through this project, one of the Macedonia most prominent financial institutions now operates on a fully centralized platform that connects all regional offices nationwide, ensuring secure and real-time monitoring of access and employee attendance.

A Fully Online System – Centralized. Real-time. Accessible from Anywhere.

XPR’s ONLine solution offers a web-based access control and attendance management system that enables administrators to manage and monitor every office and site across the country from a central dashboard, in real time.

Whether at headquarters or in a remote branch, the system provides instant visibility and control over employee presence, working hours, and access events.

This fully online architecture allows for:

  • Automatic tracking of check-ins and check-outs
  • Real-time access monitoring across multiple locations
  • Detailed reporting and integration with HR policies
  • Role-based access control and shift planning
  • 24/7 system availability via a web interface
  • Scalable infrastructure ready for future expansion

With this deployment, the institution achieved full digital oversight of its human resources, simplified internal processes, and significantly improved its operational and security efficiency.

XPRO Series Readers – Built for Security and Durability

The solution relies on advanced XPRO Series readers by XPR, known for their robustness, reliability, and secure design. These readers are built to function in even the most demanding conditions, and are paired with contactless cards that cannot be cloned or copied, eliminating the risk of unauthorized duplication or access.

Key features include:

  • High durability with IP65 and IK11/IK10 certifications – resistant to water, fire, dust, and vandalism
  • AES-encrypted communication between readers and the central system
  • Offline and online operating modes for maximum uptime
  • Modern, sleek design suitable for high-security environments

The use of Xsecure, non-cloneable cards in combination with robust readers ensures a very high level of physical and digital security, critical in financial institutions that handle sensitive data and assets.

Unseen Power, Visible Results

While the system itself is discreet in appearance, behind the scenes it works with high precision and intelligence:

  • Every access event is automatically logged
  • Every office is visible through the central dashboard
  • Every employee’s attendance is tracked and reported
  • Every potential risk is reduced through strict access permissions

This invisible but powerful digital network is what makes the system truly effective in protecting the organization – without interfering with everyday workflows.

A Partnership for the Future

“With the implementation of XPR, we gained a system that provides complete control, security, and transparency – all through a user-friendly interface,”
– said a representative of the financial institution.

This project confirms that XPR is more than just a technology provider – it is a trusted partner, capable of delivering smart, integrated solutions that support long-term goals. With its focus on cybersecurity, real-time monitoring, and long-term sustainability, XPR ONLine represents the future of access and attendance control in high-demand environments.

Ruijie Reyee Launches NBF5300M for Flexible Optical and Ethernet Networks

Ruijie Reyee has introduced the e-Lighten 2.0 Core Switch NBF5300M, a new solution that combines the functions of a high-performance core switch and an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) within a single platform, aiming to simplify deployments and enhance the resilience of fiber-based networks. This approach significantly reduces network infrastructure complexity, particularly in environments where flexibility and scalability are critical requirements.

The NBF5300M supports both optical and Ethernet architectures, allowing network designers to combine point-to-multipoint (P2MP) and point-to-point (P2P) topologies within the same network. As a result, the solution adapts to a wide range of application scenarios, from campuses and business complexes to industrial facilities and public network systems.

According to the manufacturer, the e-Lighten 2.0 platform is designed to accelerate the rollout of fiber-based networks while reducing operational costs and simplifying network management. Integrating core switching and OLT functionality into a single device further enhances system reliability and makes maintenance more efficient.

With this solution, Ruijie Reyee targets organizations and system integrators seeking a modern, robust, and long-term sustainable network infrastructure capable of supporting the growing demands of digital services and applications.

ISSUES

Global Security d.o.o.

Hasiba Brankovića c, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosna i Hercegovina
Tel: +387 (0)33/788-985
Fax: +387 (0)33/788-986
Web site: www.asadria.com
Marketing: marketing@asadria.com
Subscription: pretplata@asadria.com
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.