12 November 2011

Physical Security & Life Safety Solutions with Monitoring from AACI


American Alarm and Communications, Inc., (AACI) designs, installs, integrates, monitors and services security solutions for all types of commercial and institutional facilities as well as fire alarm and life safety systems in commercial and institutional facilities of every size and description. While every customer has different requirements and no two facilities alike, one factor remains constant in every system we integrate: that life safety is absolutely assured through the intelligent application of appropriate technology.  Beyond life safety we offer intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance systems and networking to cover all your security needs. A fully-integrated security/life safety technology strategy confers many potential benefits, including: improved safety for your people and data; reduced inventory losses; lower insurance rates; reduced manpower requirements; and compliance with industry standards.

AACI Applications – Physical Security
Different organizations face different security threats. In addition to intrusion and unauthorized access, organizations may have special concerns with vandalism, shoplifting, child abduction, data or inventory theft by employees or outsiders, and fraudulent liability claims and workers compensation incidents. Security systems can also be used to monitor internal processes and to guard against environmental hazards such as flood, high temp, freezing, and boiler malfunction.

Intrusion Detection Systems – Physical Security
Intrusion detection often serves as the foundation of a basic security system, but can also be integrated into more comprehensive security regimes. Door and window contacts, glass-break sensors, and motion detectors alert on-site personnel or emergency responders to break-in attempts via local alarms or our own UL central station reporting. Such systems can be hard-wired on dedicated low-voltage wiring, or may share wired or wireless Ethernet with other security and data communications functions. Fixed-station and wireless personal panic alert buttons can be part of the system, and the whole can be integrated with the facility’s access control structure.

Access Control/Visitor Management – Physical Security
Most organizations need to restrict access to specific areas. Visitors and employees may be granted or denied access to data centers, laboratories, or whole floors or buildings depending upon internal policies, and permitted access may change with the time of day, the date (for example, weekends or holidays), or depending upon who else is in the restricted area. Modern access control systems are capable of assigning multiple, visitor management and situation-sensitive levels of access based on the organization’s security needs. AACI provides a full range of access control devices, including keypads, door intercom/buzzer systems, badges or cards with barcode or embedded radio-frequency (RF) technology. Another option is biometric devices that digitally scan the individual’s hand- or thumbprint, face, or iris, and compare the results with data stored in a database.

We also provide the equipment and software to produce and manage photo-ID RF badges, and to control all aspects of access. From a single or multiple locations, permissions can be modified at any time without access to the badge itself, and personnel data and levels of access can be stored in an ODBC-compliant database for efficient, secure sharing with HR and other departments, as needed – for example, to facilitate the use of “smart card” badges as library or meal cards. Access control software also permits facilities management functions such as mustering, roll-calling and occupancy counting, and to set timed non-pass-back restrictions. Access privileges can be automatically adjusted by threat level and overridden manually.

Video Systems & Surveillance – Physical Security
AACI has decades of experience installing and integrating both analog and IP video and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems for surveillance and access control. Video systems can be used in combination with audio as part of door intercom systems. They can be used to record security events and business processes on a 24/7 basis, and they enable a single individual to maintain surveillance across multiple large properties and building areas. Modern megapixel cameras, available with resolution up to the high-definition range, can monitor especially wide areas compared to older analog devices, making it possible to create full-coverage networks with fewer cameras and better video quality. Low-light cameras and infrared cameras used in combination with IR illumination can record in apparent darkness.

AACI combines video with alarm and access control systems for fully-integrated security solutions. Cameras with motion-detection capabilities can function as sensor devices in intrusion-detection systems, and systems can be programmed so that user-defined security events elsewhere on the network will turn cameras on, increase their frame rate, and control pan, tilt and other telemetry. AACI can even provide video analytics to automate much of the work of surveillance. Software can pick out specific objects of interest in a video image, (such as left-behind bags in transportation terminals), recognize vehicles, identify fire and smoke signatures, count people, and read license plates. These capabilities enable a smaller staff to maintain a higher level of vigilance over larger areas, and to effectively monitor multiple issues simultaneously.

Critical Audio Communications – Physical Security
AACI understands the vital importance of security and communication, whether the solution is an analog intercom or notification system or today’s new critical communications over internet protocol (CCoIP), we can provide the systems and the integration from a single talk thru glass solutions to IP server and server-less systems, audio analytics and integration with other subsystems such as PBXs, IP telephones, IP DECT handsets, PCs and PDAs. AACI can integrate all elements of the security network – intrusion, audio, access control, and video –into a single monitoring, reporting, and storage solution. A wide range of user-definable trigger events can automatically pop up a window on the user’s control monitor showing dynamic floor plan graphics, video, and text identification of the event. The system can be programmed for automatic responses to defined threats and threat levels: for example, to impose access control restrictions or automatic lockdown. Users may also be allowed full manual control over portal access, cameras, and audio announcement or alarms. Browser-based controls permit actions from any location worldwide, and all activities and access events can be logged, stored, and post-analyzed.

Video and other data storage may be on-site in the form of a NVR, network hard drive, or virtually any type of high-volume video or data storage system.   AACI can also provide video alarm verification thru our Central Station, reducing your false alarms. AACI works with your security, IT, facilities and HR people to assess your security objectives. 

The systems we install and integrate will accommodate change and growth as your needs evolve. We provide training, software upgrades, remote programming and video management, central station monitoring, repairs, maintenance, and annual inspection services. Regional offices remain on 24-hour call to respond promptly to every need throughout New England and across America.

AACI Applications – Life Safety
No matter what type of facility you need to protect, AACI has the experience to integrate a cost-effective solution that meets your current and foreseeable needs. We protect small and large commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities; high-rises; campus complexes; and organizations with multiple locations. Different building functions require different approaches to life safety. AACI has engineered and installed systems that meet all functional and regulatory requirements in hospitals and other healthcare facilities; grade schools and universities; government facilities; data centers; and a wide variety of industrial environments.

Detection and Initiation – Life Safety
Detection of a fire signature is the first link in a chain of events, followed by initiation of the alarm system’s response and notification of emergency personnel and building occupants. AACI works with all proven detection technologies to provide optimum protection in every building environment. These include heat sensors, smoke detectors (ionization and photoelectric), laser-based air samplers, and multi-sensor devices. Digital detectors can report temperature, rate of rise, maintenance status and more. Special video cameras with built-in smoke- and flame-detection algorithms can provide unmatched early detection in high-volume spaces such as sports arenas, and can serve double-duty for motion detection and general security monitoring.

Depending upon the facility, AACI may use advanced detection systems to provide very-early warning in critical or sensitive areas such as data centers and clean environments, or false-alarm-resistant devices in industrial settings that are environmentally hostile or highly variable.  For larger-scale enterprise fire and life safety systems, our Advanced Signal division is an authorized Engineered Systems Distributor (ESD) for Notifier by Honeywell. By supporting architects during the design process, electrical contractors during construction, or making the job of facilities managers easier through superior test, inspection and customer service, Advanced Signal has been a partner of choice for business fire alarm and life safety systems for more than 30 years. The control system must lend itself to ease of use while reliably reporting and controlling a variety of functions. Control systems run the gamut from alphanumeric display panels, to PC workstations, to web-based servers.

Control Systems – Life Safety
Today’s systems have impressive capabilities to monitor, evaluate, and rapidly report their own status and that of every device on the network; to record events for documentation and review; and to allow automated control of critical functions such as elevators, emergency power shut-down, smoke control, and fire-suppression systems of all types. Annunciators throughout a facility can give emergency responders varying levels of reporting and control. UL-listed central-station monitoring is a given, but some systems have the added capability to send text messages, detailed email alerts, or real-time video to your smart phone or PDA.
In designing a system for your facility, AACI will identify technology that meets current and future technical needs and regulatory requirements, and the objectives of your IT, safety, and facilities personnel. We can offer simple controls that require essentially no day-to-day management, controls that enable personnel to quickly react to changing circumstances, and controls that give personnel extensive enterprise-wide control over life safety, security, and communications systems from a single desktop or with distributed intelligence across a campus or around the world.

Service - Life Safety 

Life safety is not just a system we sell – it’s a commitment we make to our customers. AACI is a full-service fire protection provider, working with you in an ongoing relationship to ensure the safety of your people and assets. We work with your safety, IT, and facilities people to analyze your needs and objectives, and confer with local authorities to establish compliance. We provide training, software upgrades, remote programming, central station monitoring, repairs, maintenance, and annual inspection/certification services.

Business Fire Alarm Monitoring – Life Safety
Our 24-Hour Security Command Center monitors every element of your fire alarm systems, including sprinklers, with trained staff ready to react to any trouble at your organization.

Fire Alarm Testing and Inspection Services – Life Safety
We also offer comprehensive test and inspection services, as well as remote electronic daily testing to make sure your life/safety fire alarm system is in full working order and providing your business the fire alarm protection that is necessary for proper safety.

Cost Savings with a UL Certified and Accredited Fire Alarm Provider – Life Safety
Our customers also realize insurance cost savings that is available only to companies whose security system and business fire alarm provider are UL certified and accredited, like American Alarm. 

Networking – Life Safety and Physical Security
AACI is an expert at security, life safety and network technologies, from twisted-pair wiring to wireless IP networks. We can provide full LAN or WAN networking of multiple building monitoring systems, including legacy systems installed by others.

Monitoring – Life Safety and Physical Security
Our 24-hour Security Command Center manages a full range of security services only for American Alarm customers since 1971. Our services are designed to help make sure your home or business security system is ready when needed, able to adapt when your needs change, and always supported by a team of licensed and trained professionals who count customer satisfaction as their most important goal. To learn more about how you or your organization can benefit from our solutions, services and experience contact me directly at Jmcdonald@americanalarm.com or call me at 508-962-9927.


22 September 2011

Retail Solutions for Loss Prevention and Operations Management

I had a great time at the New England Organized Retail Crime Symposium & Trade Show yesterday in Worcester, Massachusetts. I especially enjoyed listening to the speakers and the many attendees’s that I had the privilege of speaking with concerning their biggest concerns today.  The common thread for me in these conversations was:
  • Multiple offender crimes
  • Flash Mobs
  • Active Shooter Scenarios
  • Better Internal Fraud Detection Solutions
  • Improve Customer Service
  • Reduce Shrinkage
  • Increase Staff Safety
  • Measure Business Performance
  • Ensure Procedure Compliance
  • Better Remote Internal and External Video Views and Integration Solutions
  • Better Analytics, Including
    • Loitering in high-risk areas
    • Removal of multiple high-priced items
    • In-store, after hours motion detection
    • Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) alarm activation
    • People counting entering the location
    • Measure traffic flow patterns by aisle, displays or other areas
    • Identify peak busy periods
    • Be alerted to customers waiting at the registers
  • Better Data Mining including:
    • Smart transaction profiling that employ hundreds of built-in, expert business rules to quickly spot patterns of theft and fraud
    • Transaction analysis that also enables searching on credit cards1, coupons, gift and discount cards
    • Easy-to-use query designer enabling development of custom rules to reflect adherence to corporate policies
    • User-definable Dashboard displays the most important data in a Web-based UI
    • Data mining accuracy is enhanced through the statistical weighting of the unique characteristics and selling mix of every store
    • Increased productivity results from conducting investigations with confidence and knowing precisely where the most problematic issues exist
    • Custom report writer delivers interactive reports with essential information, and permits data export to Excel, XML, or other formats
    • Visual intelligence links receipts with digital video to verify suspect POS transactions
Today’s integrated security technologies offer all of these solutions and more.  At American Alarm and Communications, Inc., we offer complete security solutions for customers with high demands for security and efficient solutions.  Prioritized market segments are bank and financial institutions, retail, transport and logistics, state and local governments, health care, defense and industry.  The offering is supported by modern technology within for example, access control, video surveillance, critical audio communications, intrusion prevention, fire alarm systems, integration, service, inspections and monitoring.

I you have any concerns like these, we can have a serious discussion of your goals and plans we can help you design and budget a solution for your organization that can deploy within months and begin to pay for itself immediately.   Please contact me at your convenience to arrange an initial consultation.  I have a paper I quickly wrote to discuss an example of a possible solution, drop me a note for a copy.

Riding the wave of hosted video at ASIS 2011 |

Riding the wave of hosted video at ASIS 2011 |

22 August 2011

The New England Organized Retail Crime Symposium & Trade Show – September 21, 2011


The New England Organized Retail Crime Symposium & Trade Show will be held on September 21, 2011 at DCU Center - Worcester, Massachusetts (50 Foster Street).  The event is hosted by the Connecticut Retail Merchants Association, Maine Merchants Association, Retailers Association of Massachusetts, Retail Merchants Association of New Hampshire, Rhode Island Retail Federation and the Vermont Retail Association.
 
One of my favorite events of the year, the symposium features a strong blend of ORC and major crime information from companies such as CVS, eBay, T-Mobile and Wegmans.  Last year Eric Ives of the FBI and Kevin Tyrrell of ICE both made the trip from Washington, DC and delivered updates on federal law enforcement initiatives. Kevin Plante of Staples served as the master of ceremonies (and comedian), keeping everything rolling onstage. 

Since I spent the first 12 years of my career in operations and Loss Prevention and have deployed and sold over one billion dollars of security integrated technology solutions using Marchnetworks, Verint, Milestone and others within the retail sector since 9-11, I am always looking for ways to improve the tools and countermeasures loss prevention professionals use to protect the people and assets under their control.  At the last NRF event that I attended the most common thread was how LP/AP needed to do more (WORK) with less (STAFF).  My focus in this sector has been how the industry can better integrate technologies, create better evidence and streamline the ability to build cases in a more efficient manner.   Then deploy and support those solutions with the best installation and service teams nationwide.

Now since I joined American Alarm and Communications, Inc., I support the retail industry with separate solutions up to one total package including full integration of Video, POS, Access Control, Intrusion, Fire, Monitoring and Alarm Verification.  I look forward to this year’s show to demonstrate some of the new technologies, concepts and manufacturers available to reduce losses and improve productivity.

The 2011 New England Public Works Expo is September 28th & 29th, Get Your Passes!


This year marks the 32nd Annual New England Public Works Expo! ( http://www.nepublicworksexpo.org/index.htm )  This year’s show, sponsored by the Massachusetts Highway Association (MHA) will be held at the Central Mass Expo Center, 150 Royal Plaza Drive, Fitchburg, Massachusetts 01420 (Marriott Courtyard Facility http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/boscf-courtyard-fitchburg/ ). 

Show Highlights:
  • Show hours
    •  Wednesday 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
    •      Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Onsite parking
  • Complimentary BBQ both days from 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Vendor Appreciation Night - Wednesday at 4:00 p.m.
  • Snow Plow Rodeo finals on Wednesday at 8:00 a.m.

American Alarm & Communications, Inc.,  has received complimentary passes (a $10.00 value) to distribute to their customers before the show.  If you would like a passes, contact me at 508-453-2731 and I will send them to you.

15 August 2011

Safety, Security & Privacy - SituCon Privacy Protecting Safety Technology Rolls out in NY School District


A school district in New York has implemented an emergency video and audio notification system that only activates cameras when somebody pushes an alerting device.  Should an emergency occur, a teacher or staff person can push a wireless SituCon "Instant Alert" button on their person, which generates e-mails and texts to school administrators and local police with identifying information such as the individual's name, location, and phone number.


Simultaneously, "eyelids" on SituCam cameras open and begin recording video of the situation at the police dispatch center and on responding officers' smart phones, so that they have a better understanding about what's happening as they enter the emergency site.  At other times, SituCam's eyelids remain closed, except after hours when monitoring is allowed to protect other school assets.

The aired version of a new NY clip can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_profilepage&v=CqOSVO6pu-M

SituCon’s technology has been deployed here in Massachusetts in Marshfield and Brookline, among others.  The technology has found applications in schools, libraries, Police interview rooms, other public buildings, IT rooms, hospitals and other settings where privacy is vital but security situational awareness is critical if events warrant a quick response.

See all SituCon news at http://www.situconsystems.com/news.asp

The SituCon device is a smart enclosure that works with various cameras and can be accessed wired or wireless allowing responders to access the video and/or audio thru various devices in a crisis situation.  The system is powered by a single POE (Power-Over-Ethernet) single Cat6 cable.
We at American Alarm & Communications, Inc., have an active relationship with SituCon and can help you design, test and deploy their technology in your organization.  Contact me directly for more information at (508) 453-2731.


About SituCon Systems
SituCon Systems is the leading innovator of hardware and software technologies that provide both safety and privacy. SituCon’s Emergency Awareness Solution uses innovative privacy protecting technologies, a sophisticated alerting system and on-demand video to deliver complete peace of mind. Public safety agencies, schools, municipalities and businesses around the country use SituCon’s products to protect safety and safeguard privacy. For more information please visit www.situcon.com.


09 August 2011

IP Video Surveillance Equipment Sales to Surpass Analog in 2014, Says IMS Research


IMS Research's latest report, “The World Market for CCTV and Video Surveillance Equipment – 2011 Edition”, estimates that the world market for video surveillance equipment continued to achieve strong growth in 2010, in excess of 10 percent on the previous year, despite the persistent after-effects of the global economic downturn. This growth was predominantly driven by sales of network video surveillance equipment.  


According to Senior Analyst and report author, Gary Wong; “Whilst the global analogue video surveillance equipment market was relatively depressed in 2010, the network video surveillance market has continued grow almost three time as fast as the total market in 2010, over 30 percent”. Wong continues, “If the Chinese analogue video surveillance equipment market was removed from the equation, both the EMEA and the Americas analogue markets contracted in 2010”.

Two key factors impacting the decline of the analogue video surveillance market are the large/enterprise tier of the market transitioning to network video surveillance solutions and increasing price competition/ commoditisation in the mid-low tier of the analogue surveillance market. Network video surveillance growth continues to be bolstered by the trickle-through effect from government stimulus-funded projects and the increasing penetration of higher value network video surveillance products, such as HD cameras.

IMS Research forecasts that the growth of the network video surveillance market and the decline of the analogue market will lead to a transition in 2014, with network video overtaking analogue in terms of sales revenue. However, it should be noted that in terms of shipments, analogue cameras are forecast to continue to outsell network cameras in 2014.

IMS Research's recently published report, “The World Market for CCTV and Video Surveillance Equipment – 2011 Edition” forecasts the growth of analogue video surveillance equipment, network video surveillance equipment and other relevant topics in greater detail. IMS Research also produces a number of detailed regional focused CCTV and video surveillance equipment reports providing incisive analysis for the following countries/regions: China, Eastern Europe and Russia, Latin America, South East Asia, India and the Middle East.

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