These are a few of my favorite things … Although the holidays were more than three months away when the American Society for Industrial Security’s (ASIS) 49th annual convention took place Sept. 15-17 in New Orleans, that line from a popular holiday tune was dancing in the heads of SSI‘s contributing technical writers Al Colombo (of “Fireside Chat”) and Bob Dolph (of “Tech Talk”). Their mission: Find the products and services at ASIS that security systems contractors want now.
It was no easy task, considering the sheer number of exhibitors at this event – 812 to be exact. Much like the Sears catalog that used to arrive in your mailbox just in time for the holidays, the volume of offerings at ASIS was overwhelming. To get through it all would have taken weeks, yet the exhibit hall was only open for three days. If you attended, you probably were enticed by all the bells and whistles, yet confounded when trying to decide which products you should choose.
SSI’s technical gurus, however, were up for the challenge and eager to uncover the goodies that just might become your favorites. Bob and Al made their lists, checked them twice and narrowed them down to 15 each of what they believe were the convention’s most notable offerings. Their selections run the gamut from software to fingerprint readers; voice evacuation systems to solar-powered telephones; PDAs to color strobes and more.
If you weren’t able to attend ASIS or did attend but couldn’t get to every booth, the special products that follow make up SSI‘s 2003 ASIS Top 30.
Al’s Picks … | |
DVR Series Interfaces With POS, ATM Machines This series is compatible with CYA retail security software and users can search recorded POS transactions combined with actual transaction video. In addition to the POS interface, Fusion also interfaces with ATM machines. Captured video, along with the ATM transaction details are recorded. Both POS and ATM interfaces have the ability to view recorded details locally and remotely. |
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System Combines Paging, Messaging, Music Starting with 40W of audio power, the system can be expanded to 3,200W and beyond. The Safepath 4 also provides 2A of synchronized strobe power, although this can be expanded to virtually any amount of amperage to meet the customer’s need. Such expandability is achieved through the use of Safetpath add-on modules. |
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Interface Links Building Systems With Security The Alliance System can be configured to provide four different access levels: installer, administrator, operator and master. This unique product offers true integration as it provides the operating system for each security subsystem. |
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Server Provides Remote Access to Event History The NFN Web server utilizes the TCP/IP communications standard to enable communication over both the Internet and private intranet systems. Security is provided for individual operators using a secure connection in conjunction with a unique password, all through a simple-to-use graphic user interface (GUI). In addition, Noti Fire Net allows the end user to visually obtain an overview of all system functions at a glance. |
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Fingerprint Reader Simplifies Biometric Access Bypass keys are also available to those who cannot participate in enrollment, as in cases of severe injury where the fingerprints may not be reliably read. In addition, the door control module stores up to 1,000 events according to time and date. |
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Rackmounts Include Custom-Made Bezels The new LCD rackmounts by Middle Atlantic Products add a touch of class to the LCD monitor. The new rackmount design includes a combination of custom-made bezels along with VESA 75 and VESA 100 mounting hole patterns. Made of quality metal, these bezels functionally outline the LCD screen, providing a most pleasing look where aesthetics means everything. Middle Atlantic will custom-make LCD rackmounts and will ship within three days of the initial order. |
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Management System Enables Communication Using the OPC cross platform standard, it is now possible for dissimilar systems to “talk” to each other. Because a unified, single database is shared between all network assets, an enormous amount of time and resources are saved. Increased efficiencies are assured by command and control of multiple systems into a single, unified whole. System 3T also saves money in computer and peripheral hardware. |