April 21, 2026
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Industrial / Manufacturing

Hytera: The 450MHz Pivot: High-Impact Connectivity for the Adria Region’s Toughest Terrains

At the recent MWC26 in Barcelona, an announcement from Hytera regarding the “whitelist” certification of the PNC660 450MHz by 450Connect signaled a major shift in the future of public safety and utility communications across the Adriatic and Balkan regions.

As the region migrates from legacy narrowband technologies to LTE/5G, demand for devices that combine ruggedness with high-speed intelligence has reached a critical turning point.

The Strategic Shift in the Adria Region

The 450MHz frequency is increasingly recognized as the strategic backbone for national resilience. Across the Adria region, a clear trend is emerging:

  • Smart Grid Evolution: critical infrastructures are increasingly leveraging 450MHz for smart grid management, ensuring resilient energy distribution that remains independent of commercial networks.
  • Regulatory Alignment: Regulatory bodies across the region are phasing in updates to reallocate spectrum, prioritizing civil public safety and mission-critical broadband for state and utility applications.
  • Infrastructure Hardening: Governments are shifting from legacy CDMA to LTE to support the massive data requirements of modern smart metering and IoT deployments.

Addressing Regional Challenges, from Mountains to the Coast

The Adria region’s geography – spanning high mountain ranges to dense coastal archipelagos—demands a signal with maximum geographic reach. The PNC660 450MHz capitalizes on the 450MHz band’s superior propagation capabilities to maintain connectivity in challenging terrains where standard commercial LTE signals often falter.

Furthermore, for field teams working in deep basements or reinforced concrete substations, the 450MHz band’s penetrative power ensures stable communication links—making it an indispensable tool for modernizing aging infrastructure.

A Strategic Milestone

During MWC26, Sophia Yin, General Manager of Hytera Europe, highlighted the significance of this development:

“It is really exciting to receive these two pieces of good news at MWC26. Obtaining 450Connect whitelist certification and signing the distribution agreement with B.Schmitt simultaneously perfectly illustrates the proverb ‘good things come in pairs’, giving us a great start to 2026. We will expedite the promotion of the PNC660 450MHz in Europe and continue investing in R&D for 450MHz-related products, reinforcing our commitment to supporting critical infrastructure operators with reliable, secure, and robust communication solutions.”

More than Just a Device

For public safety and utilities sectors, the PNC660 450MHz’s value extends far beyond basic communication, it is a masterclass in Economic Efficiency and Operational Resilience. By leveraging the 450MHz band’s ability to cover vast territories with significantly fewer base stations, it offers a drastically lower Total Cost of Ownership for national safety networks compared to traditional high-frequency deployments.

This efficiency is most visible during the Adriatic’s peak tourist seasons. While public commercial networks become overwhelmed by extreme congestion, the PNC660 450MHz operates on dedicated private channels, ensuring first priority for emergency responders and utilities crews. It effectively bypasses the public network providing a clear dedicated line of command.

Ultimately, with its CC EAL5+ security chip and full MCPTT/MCVideo capabilities, the Hytera PNC660 450MHz is more than just a radio. It is the rugged, secure gateway to the next generation of Adriatic infrastructure, a critical tool for those who cannot afford to wait for a signal when every second counts.

Aikom: MOTOTRBO R5: New model with bluetooth and Wi-Fi, now certified for maritime use

Motorola Solutions presents two important updates for its professional MOTOTRBO R5 radio, designed to expand usage possibilities and improve the user experience for those working in critical environments, on the move, or in maritime contexts.

The first concerns the release of the new model with integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, ideal for users seeking maximum connectivity and wireless accessories. The second, even more relevant from a market perspective, is that the R5 UHF radio is now certified for use on vessels, in accordance with current European regulations.

MOTOTRBO R5 now also onboard

The MOTOTRBO R5 UHF radio has obtained the EN 300 720 V2.1.1 and IEC / EN 60945:2002 certifications, making it suitable for use on cruise ships, yachts, merchant fleets, shipyards, and port services.
This is a significant milestone, allowing the R5 radio to be included in maritime projects, where continuous, reliable, and regulation-compliant communication is required. Thanks to its ruggedness (IP67, MIL-STD 810H), battery life of up to 32 hours, and AI-based advanced noise suppression audio, the R5 proves to be a versatile tool ready to face the extreme conditions of the marine environment.
The certification is valid for all UHF R5 versions starting from firmware release M2025.03, without the need for dedicated hardware.

New R5 model now available with integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The second major update is the launch of the new version with Bluetooth 5.2 and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4/5.0 GHz), now available for order. This version expands the usage possibilities, allowing direct connection to wireless accessories such as earpieces, RSM microphones, remote PTTs, and vehicle mounting solutions. Furthermore, thanks to the Wi-Fi connectivity, the radio can receive remote firmware updates, simplifying maintenance and reducing downtime.

Designed for professional and continuous use, it retains all the key features of the R5 line: AI-powered intelligent audio, up to 32 hours of autonomy, MIL-STD 810H certified durability, and the UL TIA4950 intrinsic safety option for critical environments.

Aikom International and Motorola Solutions
With the new MOTOTRBO R5, Motorola Solutions continues to lead innovation in the field of professional communications. Contact the Aikom International team, official distributor of Motorola Solutions, for more information or to schedule a demo.

adriatics@aikominternational.com

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.

VORTEX by VIVOTEK – PPE Detection on Cloud

VORTEX, an AI-powered cloud surveillance platform by VIVOTEK, introduces its latest safety feature: PPE detection. PPE refers to Personal Protective Equipment, and the detection system is powered by Cloud AI and deep-learning algorithms running on VIVOTEK AI cameras. This feature automatically monitors whether workers are wearing the required safety gear in hazardous environments, helping organizations maintain real-time safety compliance.

How It Works

VORTEX uses cloud-based AI to accurately detect missing PPE, such as helmets and safety vests, and instantly triggers real-time alerts through the cloud. This enables quicker responses to prevent accidents before workers are exposed to danger. The AI model is trained to identify people and key PPE items, while the system checks whether the required equipment is worn in designated work zones. When a violation occurs – such as a worker entering a mandatory PPE zone without a helmet – the system immediately sends alerts via mobile push notifications, email, or integrated on-site speakers, allowing rapid intervention.

With the Case Vault in the VORTEX AI Hub, users can add selected clips and automatically generate a structured visual timeline with snapshots and video evidence. Reports can be exported as PDF files with a single click. All incidents are logged and stored with video evidence, creating audit-ready records for investigations and compliance reporting.

Key Benefits

Using the VORTEX cloud solution, safety managers can monitor multiple sites from a single platform and receive instant alerts whenever PPE violations occur, eliminating the need for manual supervision. The system provides continuous, automated oversight without labor-intensive spot checks, supports risk mitigation through immediate alerts, and improves operational efficiency by allowing safety personnel to focus on strategic tasks rather than constant monitoring. It also generates verified documentation needed for regulatory compliance, including OSHA requirements and insurance audits.

Where It’s Used

Typical deployment scenarios include construction sites, warehouses and logistics centers, mines and quarries, factories and manufacturing facilities, utilities and energy operations, as well as rail and transport projects. With VORTEX PPE Detection, safety enforcement becomes proactive, efficient, and verifiable – protecting workers while simplifying compliance in high-risk environments.

Salto Launches XS4 Sense

Salto announces the launch of XS4 Sense, a smart, wireless energy efficiency and control management system designed to optimize energy consumption, reduce CO₂ emissions, and support sustainability goals – that’s fully integrated with the Salto smart access ecosystem

Piše: Agnieszka Filipowicz, Business Development Manager for Central and Eastern Europe, Salto; E-mail: a.filipowicz@saltosystems.com

Salto, announced the launch of XS4 Sense, an innovative Smart Energy Management System (SMES) designed to revolutionize energy efficiency in buildings. Combining cutting-edge wireless technology with real-time energy monitoring platform, XS4 Sense empowers building operators to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon footprints, and achieve sustainability goals – all without complex installations or invasive infrastructure upgrades.

Building on Salto’s reputation for secure smart access solutions, XS4 Sense expands the smart access ecosystem technology portfolio by integrating real-time energy monitoring, advanced presence detection, and HVAC control into a compact, retrofit-friendly device. The wireless solution integrates seamlessly with Salto’s existing smart access ecosystem, including Salto Space and BLUEnet infrastructure, enabling rapid installation in operational hotels, workspaces, student dorms, cruise ships, and other properties.

Simple Management 

Built to work together, designed for retrofit, and certified for sustainability, the XS4 Sense enables building operators to reduce energy consumption, lower their CO₂ footprint, and meet sustainability goals – without the need for complex wiring or new infrastructure. The XS4 Sense offers significant energy savings by optimizing consumption at the individual room or space level, ensuring improved overall energy efficiency. Designed for seamless retrofit, its advanced wireless architecture eliminates the need for complicated setups or extra tools, making installation quick and disruption-free.

As an all-in-one smart controller, this compact wireless device integrates multiple functionalities, including motion detection, door and window sensors, and HVAC control, making it suitable for any room or space. Its flexible placement options allow installation on ceilings, under eaves, or on door and window frames, with a non-invasive design ideal for live environments such as hotels, student housing, workspaces, healthcare labs, cruise ship cabins, and more.

Ideal for Retrofitting Projects

XS4 Sense works harmoniously with Salto’s smart access platform and is fully integrated with Salto Space, combining security, comfort, and energy efficiency into a single smart access solution. The XS4 Sense offers a unique opportunity to complement existing access control solutions and deliver a measurable sustainability impact. The system is ideal for retrofitting projects in operational environments such as hotels, student dormitories, offices, cruise ship cabins, and vacation rental properties.

A powerful addition to Salto’s smart access ecosystem, the XS4 Sense delivers value for both existing customers and new developments seeking to align with sustainable building standards, ESG targets, and energy regulations. The system supports real-time monitoring and actionable insights, enabling operators to demonstrate measurable environmental impact and reduce long-term operational costs.

Z-Wave Alliance Introduces Upgraded Certified Product Guide

The Z-Wave Alliance has unveiled a redesigned Certified Product Guide, offering the smart home industry a powerful tool to navigate its vast ecosystem of devices. This updated online platform centralizes information about thousands of Z-Wave Certified products, making it easier for manufacturers, integrators, and consumers to find exactly what they need.

Unlike a simple catalogue, the guide provides a searchable database where users can filter devices by brand, category, protocol version, frequency, and other technical specifications. More than 4,500 certified products are already featured, covering solutions such as lighting, locks, sensors, gateways, and controllers. Each entry in the guide is backed by independent certification, ensuring interoperability, strong security, and reliable performance across the Z-Wave ecosystem.

The launch also highlights the growing presence of Z-Wave Long Range technology, with more than 100 certified ZWLR devices included so far in 2025. By combining advanced filtering options with transparent certification details, the guide supports better decision-making for both professionals and end-users.

Because it is continuously updated, the resource reflects the latest innovations as soon as they achieve certification. This makes it a living reference point for anyone involved in the design, integration, or use of smart home products.

“As we roll out the enhanced Certified Product Guide, our goal is to give the industry more than just a database—we’re delivering a roadmap to seamless Z-Wave interoperability,” said Bettina Roll, Certification Program Manager for the Z-Wave Alliance.

The all-new Z-Wave Certified Product Guide is now live and can be found by visiting: https://products.z-wavealliance.org/.

Johnson Controls Finalizes $8.1 Billion HVAC Sale to Bosch

Johnson Controls has officially completed the sale of its Residential and Light Commercial HVAC business to the Bosch Group in an all-cash transaction valued at $8.1 billion. The move marks a strategic shift for Johnson Controls as it sharpens its focus on smart building technologies and service-driven solutions. The company received approximately $5 billion in net cash proceeds after taxes and related expenses.

Included in the deal are the company’s North American ducted HVAC operations and its global residential joint venture with Hitachi, Ltd. Hitachi, however, will retain certain ductless HVAC assets located in Shimizu, Japan. Johnson Controls plans to return part of the proceeds to shareholders through a $5 billion accelerated share repurchase program, expected to begin in the coming weeks.

CEO Joakim Weidemanis described the transaction as a key milestone in the company’s evolution toward becoming a more profitable and innovation-led business. The company also thanked the HVAC team for their contributions and wished them success under Bosch ownership. Financial advisors on the deal included Centerview Partners and Citi, with Simpson Thacher providing legal counsel. “I’m confident in our ability to reach our full potential as a faster-growing, technology-based company that delivers greater value for customers, employees, and shareholders,” said Weidemanis.

Alarm automatika Successfully Completes EMS Project in Montenegro

Alarm automatika officially celebrated the successful completion of its Energy Monitoring System (EMS) project in Montenegro with a formal handover ceremony held at the Ministry of Energy and Mining in Podgorica.

The EMS project is part of Montenegro’s long-term energy efficiency improvement program, which has been ongoing for several years in multiple phases. In addition to facility renovations, the project involved the development and implementation of a Central Information System for monitoring energy consumption in public buildings — a solution successfully delivered by Alarm automatika.

The system now covers 193 public facilities throughout Montenegro, providing centralized monitoring of electricity and water usage, as well as real-time tracking of carbon emissions (CO₂ footprint).

The official handover on behalf of the Ministry was signed by Božidar Pavlović, Director General of the Directorate for Energy Efficiency, alongside colleagues Đorđina Lovrić and Merisa Zoronjić. Representing Alarm automatika, Project Director Senad Džabija signed the handover, joined by Finance Director Milica Blečić and team members from the company’s Montenegrin office, Mladen Savović and Maida Kurtagić. The event was also attended by Project Manager Milan Đukanović.

Alarm automatika confirmed its continued commitment to the project, announcing it will provide system maintenance and support services over the next five years.

Introducing MOTOTRBO R7Ex: Motorola’s new ATEX radio for clear and secure communications in high-risk environments

Motorola Solutions’ new MOTOTRBO R7Ex portable radio marks a significant advancement in safety and communication efficiency in critical environments. ATEX and IECEx certified, the R7Ex radio ensures reliability even in the presence of gas, dust, and extreme temperatures, delivering clear, powerful and controlled communications.

With its distinctive blue casing, the radio’s design allows for immediate identification as safe for use in potentially explosive areas. An intelligent system automatically detects and alerts the use of non-ATEX certified batteries, helping to prevent hazardous situations.

Safety and Audio Performance First

Every detail of the R7Ex radio is designed to protect field operators. Key safety features include a highly visible emergency button, Lone Worker mode for isolated workers, and Fall Alert functionality, which automatically sends an alarm in the event of a fall. The radio can be geolocated outdoors via GNSS and indoors thanks to Bluetooth beacon compatibility, all integrated with platforms like Turbonet and SmartPTT for centralized emergency management.

Controls are designed for glove use: V-shaped knobs, clearly visible buttons, and LEDs ensure quick and intuitive interaction, even in critical situations.

Crystal-Clear Audio in Challenging Environments

Audio quality is a key strength of the R7Ex radio, thanks to a suite of advanced technologies:

  • AI-trained Noise Suppression, which reduces background noise while distinguishing the human voice
    ● Automatic Gain Control, which equalizes audio levels regardless of voice type or distance
    ● Volume Boost up to 108 phons, with a 2.5W speaker, ensuring audibility at all times
    ● Acoustic feedback suppression, useful when multiple radios are in close proximity

IMPRES™ technology automatically adjusts audio performance based on the accessory in use, while compatibility with ATEX headsets ensures clarity even in extremely noisy environments.

Reliable, Connected, and Durable

The R7Ex ATEX radio is built to last: IP66/IP68 certified, resistant to dust, water, and disinfectants, and operational in temperatures from -30°C to +60°C. It meets the rigorous MIL-STD 810H military standards.

On the operational side, it includes features such as voice recording (up to five calls replayable), text messages with voice playback, NFC and RFID for asset management, and dual-band Wi-Fi for remote updates. The high-capacity battery offers up to 23.5 hours of autonomy, ideal for extended shifts.

Aikom International and Motorola Solutions

With the launch of the MOTOTRBO R7Ex, Motorola Solutions reinforces its commitment to delivering reliable, innovative and safe solutions for every professional environment. For technical information, integration support, or personalized consulting, you can contact Aikom International, the official Motorola Solutions distributor.

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.

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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.