The third day of IFSEC Connect (3rd June) saw the likes of Elan, Reveal Media and Thales showcase their latest solutions for security professionals, while the afternoon played host to a lively debate, with experts discussing the future of intruder alarms and detection.
Following the first two days on video surveillance and access control, intruder alarms and detection was the focus on day 3 of IFSEC Connect 2021. The morning’s sessions also covered security and fire cabling solutions, body-worn camera systems and facial recognition-based access management.
The morning kicked off with ELAN presenting on its range of PVC, halogen-free and polyurethane cables for security alarm systems, CCTV, network installations and fire detection. Cristiano Montesi, CEO for the company, explained how ELAN has ensured its products for various devices are certified to the relevant global standards. The manufacturer’s BIGBAT battery brand was also covered – said to be a reliable solution that was launched in 2000, with options spanning from 6 to 12V.
Next up was Reveal Media, showcasing its body-worn video systems that are said to transform the jobs of security personnel, police officers, key workers in healthcare and retail, as well as wider communities. The D-Series camera has an articulating camera head, front facing screen and AES encryption to support de-escalation procedures, with two options available for purchase. Reveal explained how the body-worn cameras can help capture important context and evidence in challenging circumstances.
Thales was then on hand to explain its Face Recognition Platform Face Pod, integrated with Nedap AEOS – a GDPR-compliant solution to manage employee and visitor rights. The two companies have partnered to provide a solution that allows users to enter buildings using their face – or badge and face combined for a two-layered security approach – as credentials, which combine with Nedap’s AEOS system for verification purposes. Both vendors were then on hand to answer any questions the live audience had.
A panel discussion took the spotlight in the afternoon, where a group of experts explored the current challenges, threats and opportunities in intruder detection and alarms. Major trends such as new tech, changes to alarm signalling, the impact of IoT and the cloud, and more were all discussed. An exclusive eBook is also available to download for free for all those who watch back on-demand in the Connect platform, which compiles the thoughts from key vendors at the forefront of the sector. Gerry Dunphy, Event Director of IFSEC & FIREX International, was on hand to host, and was joined by:
Kicking off with panellists commenting on the biggest trends in the sector, it was highlighted how the traditional alarm signalling intruder alarm system is moving towards a more interactive system that end-users can connect and control themselves, as well as installers who are able to update and monitor systems remotely. There is also a move towards integration with other security systems and building management devices, being driven by demand from homeowners and commercial buildings owners who are looking towards more connected and ‘smart’ buildings.
A significant part of the discussion revolved around the changing requirements from installers. While products are now easier to install than ever before, there is however enhanced knowledge of IP-systems, cloud-based solutions and cyber security best practice. This is also influenced by the expanding IP network thanks to the digital PTSN switch off in the UK, set to be completed by 2025, noted participants.
The panel also explored where there was potential for significant growth in different verticals and sectors – something that has been impacted by COVID, with rising demand in warehouses, storage facilities and logistics centres due to online shopping, alongside empty retail and hospitality premises as lockdowns affected businesses across the world.
Other issues on the agenda, which can all be caught up on from the on-demand session available at IFSEC Connect, included cyber security, integration, upskilling requirements for installers and integrators, and how the emerging growth of IoT in the sector may impact upon the standards, which have previously been viewed as somewhat restrictive.
Watch the panel discussion on the future of intruder alarms and detection, below…
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