HS Technology Blends Security With A/V as Integrated Installation of the Year Runner-Up

HST installed several integrated systems during a complex renovation, earning itself the honor of Integrated Installation of the Year runner-up (small to midsize company).

HST installed several integrated systems, separated into security and audio/video buckets.

July 17, 2017 Arlen Schweiger Jump to Comments

When it comes to auctions, the high bidder reaps the spoils, but in this case prominent auction house Alex Cooper itself was a winner after awarding the bid for its security integration project to Baltimore-based HS Technology Group (HST).

The firm was given the contract in the middle of 2015 for a multiyear phased-in installation for the Towson, Md., auction gallery, and based on its work it’s been awarded Integrated Installation of the Year runner-up recognition (small to midsize company).

The gallery was divided into a real estate division, an auction gallery and a fine rug gallery.

In order to continue operations during the renovations, HST needed to futureproof its wire installation as well as install temporary security systems during this process while Alex Cooper remained open for business, according to HST President/CEO Stuart Forchheimer.

Each section would undergo a renovation while the other two sections remained open.

“We had to get creative with placement of devices as there were always construction crews modifying the interior walls and structure,” says Forchheimer. “Utilizing Alarm.com services for door prop alerts, allowing the client to receive real-time alerts throughout the day when areas off-limits were entered gave them the level of security they needed during the construction/renovation phase of work.”

HST installed several integrated systems throughout the complex renovation. The systems were separated into security and audio/video buckets.

HST installed an integrated DMP security and access control system, which allowed it to integrate and restrict controlled areas throughout the facility that comprises three separate functioning operations including a cashier/vault room, fine estate jewelry section and a valuable coin area for priceless pieces brought in to be auctioned, Forchheimer explains.

The security/access control system was complemented with an Aiphone Intercom system at their main entry doors along with 60+ Arecont megapixel cameras viewable through an Enterprise Exacq Server platform.

“The platform allowed the owners to view all cameras on demand remotely as well as the ability to create custom views for inside staff to manage their respective locations,” Forchheimer says.

Several exterior cameras were integrated into an Avigilon analytics platform to provide for additional after-hours premises security utilizing G4S talk down remote guard services.

On the A/V side, the auction and rug galleries were outfitted with a professional Bose 70-volt music system integrated into the auction software which allowed the client to have background music playing at off times and during the auctions.

Three monitors were mounted from steel joists to be enlisted for auction item display signage, which was also integrated into the client’s existing auction house software.

“All speakers, cameras and other security devices are in plain view but installed to be inconspicuous. There were over 80 speakers and 60 cameras installed and to most people walking through, you don’t see but a couple,” says Forchheimer. “They wanted a higher level of security because of the merchandise they are bringing in, but didn’t want to overwhelm the bidders.”

While HST was onsite, it was also decided that all network and data cabling be managed and installed by the security provider, says Forchheimer.

A majority of the HST infrastructure for its security and other platforms already used Cat-6 plenum wiring, so the firm was asked to redo the client’s network infrastructure as well as phone/data feeds.

The systems were designed for a tech-savvy client, and everything required control from an iPad or app on personal devices, notes Forchheimer.

HST utilized Connected Technologies for the Connect One App to allow control of the DMP security and access control system, Exacq app and the Avigilon apps for video viewing and real-time alerts as well as customizable software from Exacqvision to allow for different views of each area of concern.

The sound system incorporates the Sonos app for music selection of playlists and streaming content, tied into a DBX Zonepro app for control of the microphones and speaker zones.

Alex Cooper brass has continued to contact HST for more cabling, more cameras as well as more customization and reporting, Forchheimer says.

They have begun to develop a system of best practices and have acquired the ability to monitor activity both during and after a live auction.

“Their bench is very deep with experts across many disciplines which was necessary for a renovation such as ours,” auctioneer Matthew Cooper says of HST. “The patch panels, racks and other systems were well organized and have been easy to service when needed. I was very impressed with the results.”

BEST OF THE BEST: Check out the rest of the winners and runners-up here!

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