Siemens – Si-pass range.

Siemens are famous for many different products both inside and outside the security industry.
They have now produced a range of access control solutions that aim to compete at the highest level with some of their competitors more recognised for access control manufacturing. Their Si pass Entro 6 software is the latest access control solution and is packed with features. It is able to handle up to 512 doors with up to 40000 users and can support 480 access groups. The access control software is able to allow 240 time schedules and has additional benefits such as alarm bypass roll call and anti pass back to ensure door security and to help maintain a high security level. The software is windows compatible on machines that run 2000 /vista and x/p as well as Vista. Other benefits include the ability to integrate the Siemans Sistore DVR and photo I’D.

Access door controller.

Together with software comes the SI- PASS SI 351-8 which is a door controller. The controller sits at the heart of the Entro system and can operate independently without the software. In the case of a network failure it acts as a disaster recovery system and can hold up to 10000 events that will instantly update once the failure is resolved. An excellent tool and one that can save lots of time and money.

SC7 smart card reader.

Siemens also have released the SC7 MIFARE smart card reader that can be used where access control is not the sole use of the smart card. It is integrated seamlessly into the entro controllers is IP 67 rated .The reader can recognise all industry standard smart cards and has been cleverly designed to be future proofed for new technologies that may be forthcoming onto the market.

Conclusion.

SI-PASS access control solutions have clearly been designed to compete along side some of the very best current technology on offer and there are also plans in place to integrate to CCTV and intruder alarms to give a complete integrated package. Worth following the product to see how this it progresses in the market place

CCTV what’s next?

In today’s market it cannot be denied that the whole ethos of security and ideas of how customers protect their premises is changing. Many companies are looking to recycle existing security equipment or at the very least their current wiring  infrastructure. New equipment sales and complete upgrades are becoming more difficult to sell as budgets are tightened across all areas of business. Some security companies view this as a depressing fact and have resigned themselves to less sales cutting their staff accordingly. This may however be a little premature.

CCTV servicing.

Service opportunities are rising as existing kit slowly begins to fail and begs to be replaced but a whole new system is often a luxury that many companies just will not stomach. So it is now the time to think smart. Networks and IT technology is a an unstoppable fact of life and upgrades in this area are inevitable so camera solutions have to fit into this ever expanding frame work . The whole situation lends itself perfectly to a hybrid solution.

What is a hybrid solution?

Well a hybrid DVR is simply one that can handle both old analogue technology and the new IP cameras that are seen as the future of CCTV and security. Phasing IP in is less costly but still allows an end user to embrace the new products that can bring extensive benefits. The only proviso being, that the IP cameras  must be specified correctly. The right camera for the right application.

Hybrid CCTV systems.

Forward thinking Installing Companies prepared to use old analogue cameras together with a hybrid DVR will find the first step to new on going sales has been reached. As Hd and Megapixel cameras become more and more prevalent they can be integrated into a hybrid system over a period of time. This is more in the thinking of company accountants looking to find a solution, but one that suits his needs and budgets.

Be flexible, service all the  security solutions on a site!

To grow sales be flexible. Take on one or more of the security disciplines on site. Then, a customer will be more reliant on their installer and again this will give an opportunity for more sales and even integration between the CCTV, access control and intruder panels.

Sales to increase?

So lets not be gloomy about how we can grow sales of megapixel, HD, IP cameras and DVRs. This particular period  of difficult market conditions should really be re-thought as a chance for innovative and forward thinking installers to grow and enjoy the bright future that new IP camera solutions will soon bring.

Biometric access control solution.

Access control solutions are continuously evolving and Biometric readers are no exception. Using fingerprint technology vastly improves door entry security and nullifies the risk of cards being passed to to third parties. Frequently however in the past Biometrics have been unreliable and slow.

Fingerprint Reader.

iEVO  though have a team of people that have developed a product that addresses many of the problems that have plagued fingerprint readers in the past. With the added benefit of the ability to integrate into Paxton access controllers the partnership makes for a successful formula.

Good design.

The iEVO is an IP device and is minimalistic in design. It is user friendly and vandal resistant. Designed to be used both internally and externally it is IP65 rated and can be flush or surface mounted .

So whats the secret of reliability.

Well by using a technology called Multi spectral imaging  the reader is able to obtain fingerprints through dust, dirt water and oils. An impressive demonstration of the unit also proved it could actually see through light latex gloves as well.

Benefits.

The ergonomics of the unit mean that it fits in well into building design making it a favorite with architects .  It also has a thermostat heated sensor when being used externally and includes wiegand outputs for interfacing and is networkable.

Conclusion.

It seems the iEVO team have pretty much though of everything here, you can even buy the units in different colours. If you have used this biometric solution please let us have your feedback . However having been demonstrated this unit we would recommend you take iEVO biometric readers into consideration to help increase security for your door entry systems.

Who are Suprema.

Established in 2000, Suprema Inc is a global player who specialize in Biometric IP access control systems. Product quality is extremely important and Suprema have gained widespread recognition for their products and market leading technology.

What have they developed and achieved?

The companies fingerprint algorithm was proven to be one of the best and has gone on to get world wide recognition. In addition their access control products received the Detektor international award in two consecutive years and got some extremely favorable press at the IFSEC 2009. Sales have topped 500,000 units worldwide of both biometric and access control products.

Products.

BioStation is a biometric access controller it incorporates colour LCD, USB port and  LAN. This is an ultra fast unit, matching 3000 templates per second this is thanks to the the use of high quality components and the previously mentioned Suprema  algorithm.

Biolite Net.

Claiming to be the worlds smallest fingerprint IP access control terminal with time and attendance capability. Its ergonomic design is IP65 rated. It can be used both internally and externally and can be standalone or networked. BioLite Net offers an extremely secure biometric solution.

BioEntry Plus.

A clever combination of IP and biometrics. A smart looking device that means access security is assured. The management and operation is supported by fingerprints and an RF card.

Conclusion.

A great combination of excellent build quality, good design and clever flexibility, Suprema have come up with a product range that can only give Biometric door entry systems a good reputation.

Brand spotlight.

Videx is a manufacturer who specialize in the design of video and audio door entry systems and access control. Established in 1985 it prides itself on innovative development and improvement. The door entry systems are ideal for housing associations, residential, commercial business and local authorities.

So what’s new?

They have created an extensive range of products that enable specifiers and installers to give their customers the choice of door entry systems that are both robust and pleasing to they eye. They have recently released their latest software package  called  builder V.7 which is available free of charge from Norbain this is to help with system design and features the new 4000 series, the two wire VX2300 , the VR4k and the fully expandable VX2200.

How can we use Videx product Builder?

Videx product builder helps design 1 door systems all the way to very large multiple door installations. On screen adjustments can be made and multiple combinations and layouts become easy. This is an exceptional tool for designers. It includes data sheets and brochures as well as installation manuals. It is also helpful to demonstrate to interested clients and helps to sell the final solution agreed upon.

Conclusion.

The Videx door systems are well designed and aesthetically pleasing something an architect would be happy to specify within his building design. With plenty of back up and information available to the installer we would encourage a visit to their website.