The Internet of Things (IoT) has become quite a phenomenon, as more and more networked devices are connected to the Internet and generate valuable data for users. Security players, meanwhile, have detected this trend and are adapting themselves to IoT.
The Internet of Things (IoT) has become quite a phenomenon, as more and more networked devices are connected to the Internet and generate valuable data for users. Security players, meanwhile, have detected this trend and are adapting themselves to IoT. In this article, some of our Security 50 companies share with us how they do it.
Some of them, for example, have expanded their IP product lines to extend the functionality of security systems. Axis Communications, which introduced the first network camera ever, is one of them.
“About two years ago, in 2013, we introduced our networked physical access control system, which really extended our focus beyond just cameras as connected IoT devices,” said Martin Gren, Co-Founder of Axis Communications. “We continue to expand in other ways, such as with the IP horn speaker and the IP video door station. We believe IP-based, connected systems – call it the IoT – that enable all types of security, surveillance, and even things like building management functions, are where the industry is headed.”
Allen Liu, Product Manager at Dahua Technology, echoed those remarks. “Dahua pays more attention to develop more comprehensive solutions,” Liu said. “The new product lines such as video intercoms, alarms, and access control have been rolled out.”
“We have developed a variety of new products and solutions that are meant to complement and support our consumers’ movement into the IoT space,” said Rob Martens, Futurist and Director of Connectivity Platforms at Allegion. “From a residential standpoint, our connected door devices are designed with advanced technology to work in a very dynamic consumer environment with a wide variety of service providers. In multifamily, the Schlage Control is a solution for streamlining operations and boosting a property’s appeal by eliminating the need for traditional keys, while giving residents convenient smart card and phone credentials.”
Everspring, whose business is in the smart home field, has strategically repositioned itself as a solutions provider rather than device manufacturer in the wake of IoT. “We provide total solutions for different channels consumers and system providers, with transformed IP-based products, self-constructed cloud server, and innovative APP software,” said Kevin Wang, Director of System Development Business Center. “Regardless the targeted market, Everspring’s solutions will focus on intelligent and user experience with different emphasis, ease-of-installation/use for consumers, robustness for professional installers, and remote manageability for service providers.”
In order for security devices to work seamlessly under the IoT framework, open standards are a must. “Because an access control system is always used for the longer term, it is almost certain that new security technologies will be introduced during the service life of the system,” said Arjan Bouter, Head of Sales at Nedap Security Management.
He added: “Our software-based security management platform is based on open IT standards. We recognized that, as the demands for security systems become more complex, they need to become easier to adjust. Our security management platform is based on versatile controllers where software determines functionality. This way it is fully equipped to cope with the security requirements of the future.”
Commax has also positioned itself as a champion of standardization. “We support wireless network technology, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, and BLE, and base our new sensors and actuators on these standards,” said Chul Hong Park, R&D Team Manager. “In addition, we have developed an integrated platform and cloud server that can manage these various wireless protocols. Our goal is to have devices connect with one another and share information seamlessly.”
The changing roles of SIs
Not only vendors, but security systems integrators, dealers, and consultants also have a critical role to play. Specifically, in IoT-enabled facilities, IT and physical security need to come together, and installers who make that possible will find their true value in the market.
“Helping to create and grow the relationship between the CIO and the facility manager is crucial to the successful adoption of the IoT in access control moving forward. Educating the CIO in understanding physical security, and bridging the knowledge gaps for the facility manager with smart device technologies, will be key differentiators for successful dealers and integrators as the industry inevitably moves to a more IoT-centric mindset,” Martens said. “This core group should present themselves as a coordination point for the IoT where they act as a mediator between the CIO and the facilities manager – a knowledgeable, trusted voice.”
Lars Nordenlund Friis, VP of Incubation and Ventures at Milestone Systems, agrees with that point. “The IoT expands market opportunities for systems integrators and manufacturers,” he said. “Those who understand IP will be in demand for installing and integrating IoT with video at the core to visualize, manage and verify it all.”