Wisconsin CO Alarm Requirement Enacted

As of Feb. 1, 2011, all one- and two-family dwellings in the state of Wisconsin will be required to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to comply with changes in Chs. Comm 21 and 28, Wis. Adm. Code. The rule changes are in response to 2009 Act 158, enacted March 10, 2010, and follow a similar requirement for multi-family dwellings. Wisconsin Electronic Security Association president Tom Binish noted that the law permits CO detectors that are connected to an alarm system and that the association promotes the use of monitored detectors in all homes.

“According to the American Medical Association, CO poisoning is the leading cause of accidental poisoning in the United States,” said Department of Commerce Secretary Paul Jadin. “CO alarms have shown their effectiveness in alerting occupants to the presence of this poisonous gas.”

One-and two-family dwellings for which a building permit is issued on or after February 1, 2011 require carbon monoxide alarms that are interconnected, so that activation of one alarm will cause activation of all alarms. Alarms must also be directly wired to the dwelling’s electrical service, with a backup battery supply. In addition, the alarms must be listed and labeled in conformance with UL 2034.

Existing dwellings may use battery-powered, stand-alone alarms. The alarms must be installed in the basement and on each floor level except the attic or garage.


GVI Security Lays out Plans for the Future

Last December it was announced that Samsung Techwin America, Ridgefield Park, N.J. and GVI Security Inc., Carrollton, Texas, would be ending their master distribution arrangement on Jan. 1, 2011, so the former company could realign its reseller strategies. GVI Security had served for the past 11 years as a master distributor for Samsung Electronics in the Americas.

Having a fresh start now gives GVI Security the opportunity to pursue growth opportunities it didn’t have as part of the Samsung relationship, Steve Walin, CEO of GVI Security, said in a recent interview with SDM.

“What we have done and will focus on going into [this] year is introduce Video Plus, a complete line of analog products we will sell into the marketplace,” Walin said, describing the just-introduced line as “extremely well-featured and well-functioned at a very competitive price.”

The new videoPLUS™ line will feature a complete family of cameras and DVRs, including box, dome, bullet and PTZ cameras, as well as professional monitors and real time CIF and D1 DVRs, the company announced in a press release issued in January. “The videoPLUS™ line is a strategic investment on our part,” said Joe Restivo, COO, GVI Security. “60 percent of the market is still analog product and that segment continues to grow.”

GVI Security is also known for its autoIP™ product line including razberi™, which is the IP DVR replacement, Walin described. “We think this product is going to be an extremely [successful] product for the small- to medium-sized dealer who wants to get involved installing IP, but doesn’t have the time or resources to learn networks.”

The really important stuff stays the same at GVI Security. “Products are products are products for the most part, but what really separates companies in this business is pre-sales and post-sales service and support. It’s really gratifying to see that our customers are just thrilled with the way we help them,” he said.


4 Installation Companies Consolidate Businesses

American Total Protection, LLC  (ATP) announced the consolidation of four alarm and security installation companies:  America’s Alarm Company, LLC, Wallingford, Conn., Reliable Detection Systems, LLC, New Haven, Conn., Rite-Way Alarm Systems, LLC, Milford, Conn. and Frontline Protection Systems, LLC, Melbourne, Fla..

ATP stated that the consolidation occurred on Dec. 31, 2010 and results in a platform the company seeks to utilize to drive further consolidation in the security and alarm industry.

Peter Zichichi, chief operating officer of the combined businesses, anticipates a three-prong growth strategy, “Our vision contemplates operating the largest independent alarm and security business in the eastern United States. We intend to accomplish this growth with a three-prong program: organic growth through traditional installation (residential and commercial) supplemented by a telemarketing program; an innovative dealer program; and strategic acquisitions.
“We are fortunate to have the financial commitment from First Growth Properties, LLC to support our proposed growth strategy,” Zichichi added.
Dominic Prete, executive vice president and a 25-year industry veteran, leads the sales and marketing effort for the consolidated enterprise. Prete is the founder of Reliable Detection Systems.

Kelen Prutow, executive vice president of Frontline Protection Systems, leads the consolidated company’s Florida operation.  Kelen has more than 20 years’ experience in operation and marketing. Prutow, a United States Army veteran will also head up the company’s government sales and service efforts.
Zichichi noted that the company is currently in active discussions with two additional East Coast alarm and security companies that he hopes will result in a closing in April 2011.

UTC Fire & Security Sells Guarding Business

UTC Fire & Security, Farmington, Conn., announced that it reached an agreement to sell its United Kingdom (U.K.)-based manned guarding business, Chubb Security Personnel Limited, to an affiliate of Securitas AB, a Sweden-based security provider. UTC Fire & Security is a unit of United Technologies Corp.
With 19 locations in the U.K., Chubb Security Personnel has more than 5,000 employees and offers a range of permanent and temporary manned guarding services to both public and private sector customers.

President of UTC Fire & Security William Brown said the sale was in line with the company’s strategy to focus on high technology content operations. “UTC Fire & Security is constantly reviewing its operations, organizational structure and products and services in order to support our growth strategy and meet the needs of our customers. Chubb Security Personnel is a well-run business with a strong management team and an excellent track record that will be a good fit with Securitas.”

The divestiture is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2011.

Jerry Foster Receives Career Achievement Award
 

Jerry Foster (left) receives Career Achievement Award from Vanco President, Brad Corbin.

Jerry Foster, director of New Product Development for Batavia, Ill.-based Vanco International, LLC received a Career Achievement Award. The award was presented by Vanco president, Brad Corbin at Foster’s retirement celebration on Dec. 16, 2010. Foster excelled in his lifetime career in the electronics accessory industry, serving several companies in marketing and sales efforts. Corbin explained that Foster was significantly involved in the development of new products and markets at Vanco and was very instrumental in the company’s growth and successes. “Jerry will be missed by Vanco, customers and the industry, but our wish is that he enjoy every minute of his well-earned retirement,” Corbin said.

Joe Gibbs to Deliver ESX 2011 Keynote

From June 6 to 10, in Charlotte, N.C., security industry integration and monitoring companies will gather for education, networking and an expo floor, featuring the industry’s newest products and services. The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) plans to launch its fourth and largest show, with a bit of NASCAR flare. It is with this spirit that it announced the 2011 keynote speaker, Joe Gibbs.
 Gibbs, a former NFL football coach and NASCAR Championship team owner, is well known for his work ethic, transforming the average NFC Washington Redskins team into Super Bowl titans and taking drivers Bobby Labonte and Tony Stewart to the finish line with NASCAR Cup Series Championships.

“I think all industries require solid relationships and hard work to thrive. I believe very strongly in these core values and I think many people connect with that message,” Gibbs said. “I’m looking forward to sharing my story at ESX.”

This game plan constructing legend will address security integration and monitoring companies as they revitalize their own profitable business plans. “I am thrilled that Joe will be with us, delivering his perspective on the world of football, NASCAR and life outside of sports,” said George De Marco, ESX Chair. “He has inspired NFL football teams and NASCAR drivers alike. I believe his leadership skills and unique blend of energy and experience will take this year’s keynote address to an entirely new level.”

Gibbs’ motivational story will touch upon his successes, failures and lessons learned throughout his high-profile journey. The keynote luncheon will be held at the Charlotte Convention Center on Wednesday, Jun. 8 at 11:45 a.m.

To secure your registration for ESX, visit www.esxweb.com/register or call 877-628-9558. ESX will take place June 6 to 10 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, N.C. ESX will feature nearly 50 educational offerings, diverse networking opportunities and the largest security integration and monitoring expo floor in the nation. For sponsorship opportunities contact Shannon Murphy at smurphy@ae-ventures.com or 508-618-4224.

SGI Sends Contest Winner to Super Bowl XLV
 

Derrick Hagler of SGI, Calie Stephens, Mike Capulli, and Duane Snyder of DSC.

Security General International Ltd. of San Antonio, Texas, a privately held solutions provider specializing in the distribution of emerging technology products and connectivity solutions, announced the winner of its Big Game contest. The winner, Calie Stephens, owner of Your DFW Security Advisors, won a grand prize package that included two tickets to Super Bowl XLV, a four-night hotel stay in Dallas, on-field events, merchandise gift cards and event passes. Co-sponsored by DSC, a Tyco International Company, the contest ran from September 9 through Dec. 31, 2010 — for the NFL regular season. All SGI customers were eligible and could increase their chances of winning by purchasing DSC equipment. SGI and DSC formally presented the tickets to Stephens the day before the Super Bowl as final preparations were being made for the big game outside of Cowboys Stadium.

“We are very excited for Calie! This was a great promotion for SGI and our partner DSC and we are looking forward to other opportunities to promote our brand in a similar fashion with our vendor partners,” said SGI’s director of sales, Mike Capulli.

ADT, State of N.J. Sign 4-Year Contract

The state of New Jersey joined a four-year cooperative procurement agreement with the National Joint Powers Alliance, serviced by ADT, Boca Raton, Fla., which allows state and municipal agencies, school districts and public colleges and universities to satisfy competitive bid requirements to directly purchase security services and equipment from ADT.

 The contract covers services and equipment such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, intrusion detection and fire alarm systems, burglar alarms, wireless transmission networks, central station monitoring and system maintenance and equipment repair.

 The costs of equipment and services will be set by New Jersey’s membership with the NJPA, a non-profit government agency that establishes and provides nationally leveraged and competitively solicited cooperative contracts for municipal government, educational and non-profit agencies across many industries in all 50 states and Canada.

Mike Hajek, NJPA’s director of business development and marketing, said ADT is the group’s sole provider of security systems and services.
“Our members can have confidence that our bid processes are open to all responsible parties and that no one is excluded from participating,” he said. “ADT will offer New Jersey public agencies added value from its decades of extensive security experience integrating the latest technologies.”

As an added value, Daniel Schroeder, ADT’s vice president of commercial sales, said the state and its agencies receive the liability protection benefits of ADT’s SAFETY Act certification and designation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Mosler

Bob Mosler to Lead Contract Sales for Matrix

Matrix Systems, a Miamisburg, Ohio-based access control and security solutions provider and manufacturer, named security industry veteran Bob Mosler as its director of contract sales. 

Mosler will build a North American value-added reseller (VAR) network to provide sales, installation, integration and customer support for two newly-introduced Matrix Systems products, the open architecture, enterprise-based Frontier™ Universe and Web browser-based Frontier™ Web Essentials access control systems.

Mosler brings more than 28 years security experience including positions as vice president of sales and marketing, national accounts manager and division director and commercial sales representative.

Aside from building the integrator network, Mosler is also responsible for establishing six nationwide regions headed by regional sales managers and exhibiting at major trade shows. Mosler is a long-standing member of ASIS International.

ISC West 2011: Change Happens

The security industry is looking forward to the annual ISC West 2011 — themed “Change Happens” — scheduled to take place April 5 through 8 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Vegas, with educational sessions scheduled for Tuesday through Thursday, and the exhibition scheduled for Wednesday through Friday.

Please visit SDM’s booth 18129 and introduce yourself or stop by to chat about your business or to share a story idea.
In addition to featuring more than 900 exhibitors, one of the special presentations is State of the Industry: The Industry Expert Roundtable. Open to all attendees, the roundtable is scheduled to take place just before the opening of the show on Wednesday, April 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. It will be moderated by Sandra Jones, SJ&Co, featuring Mike Howard, general manager/chief security officer, Microsoft, and Cary Boethel, vice president and business unit head, Siemens Building Technologies Inc., Security Solutions Business Unit.

In addition, you’d be left in the dark if you didn’t attend the SIA New Product Showcase (NPS) Awards Announcement, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, April 6, on the show floor. Consult your show directory for the time and location. The SIA NPS is the annual awards program that recognizes new and innovative security products and services. SIA NPS judges will designate winners of the Product Achievement Awards and other outstanding achievements. Many past award winners have gone on to become industry-standard products and services, so keeping abreast of these products can have a major impact on your business.

Other special events include:

• The eighth annual AIREF Golf Classic on Tuesday, April 5. This venue allows you to spend quality time with important clients or colleagues before ISC West begins. The golf tournament is AIREF’s sole fundraising event for the year. Golf without guilt while supporting your industry. Register at: http://www.airef.org/pdf/AirefForm.pdf

• The Security 5K on Thursday, April 7, at 7:30 a.m. Run for fun, and help change lives, at this 5K road race. The Security 5K, to benefit Mission 500, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the needs of children and communities in crisis. One hundred percent of the funds raised will be channeled directly to World Vision with a goal of sponsoring at least 500 needy children in their program. For information, visit http://www.iscwest.com/en/ISC-West/Attendee-Info/Special-Events/

• SIA Ride for Education on Saturday, April 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wrap up ISC West week with a fun and scenic motorcycle or sports car ride outside of Las Vegas through the Valley of Fire, Hoover Dam and other sites. The ride benefits SIA’s First Responders Educational Scholarship, which awards funds to volunteer or publicly paid first responders who are taking security and life safety-related courses. For information, visit http://www.iscwest.com/en/ISC-West/Attendee-Info/Special-Events/

Products on Display at ISC West

Carbon Monoxide Detector with RealTest™
 

The new CO1224TR Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector with RealTest™ from System Sensor is a round version of the award-winning System Sensor CO1224T CO detector for ceiling or wall applications where a round device better suits the aesthetics. Like the CO1224T, the CO1224TR includes RealTest — the first and only field functional CO test fully compliant with NFPA 720: 2009, according to System Sensor. Only RealTest enables you to quickly verify that the CO detectors you install are actually protecting your customers, the company said. The CO1224T and CO1224TR also provide multiple mounting options and are quick and easy to install, test and maintain. The CO1224T and CO1224TR have low current draw, the latest electrochemical sensing cell, and a six-year, end-of-life timer.

Latch Retraction / Dogging Kits for Major Brand Exit Devices
 

With only 450mA inrush, SDC’s UL Approved Quiet Duo LR100 series field-retrofit kits provide simultaneous electric latch retraction and dogging with automatic retriggering for Von Duprin, Sargent, Yale/Corbin, Dor-O-Matic and Adams Rite mechanical exit devices, eliminating costly exit device replacement while providing access control and sustained dogging (pushpad depression) for sustained push-pull applications. The pushpad depression also provides quieter mechanical operation for access control applications. The LR100VDK field-retrofit kit is UL Recognized for Von Duprin 22, 33/35, 98/99 non-fire-rated exit devices. The SDC installed LR100VD is UL listed for fire-rated and non-fire-rated models. Low 450mA inrush, 180mA continuous current eliminates special power supplies and enables longer, smaller-gauge wire runs.

IP Fixed Dome Cameras with Audio Functionality
 

Basler’s new IP Fixed Dome Camera models will be equipped with an audio function and with a new multimedia video processor. This processor technology is already being used in Basler’s current IP fixed box camera line. First models with resolutions of up to 1.3 megapixels will be available in the second quarter of 2011. With the integration of audio functionality, both a microphone for audio recording and speakers as part of a public address system can be connected to the camera. When this feature is used, Basler’s IP Fixed Dome Cameras cover an even wider area of surveillance than the camera’s field-of-view. The two upcoming dome camera models, the BIP2-D1000c-dn camera and the BIP2-D1300c-dn high-definition model, provide real-time video at frame rates of up to 30 fps with MJPEG, MPEG-4, and H.264 compression.

Basler Vision Technologies — ISC West Booth 6117
For Free Information visit www.sdmmag.com/webcard or www.basler-ipcam.com

 

Upgrade Locks to Network Technology

The patent-pending modular design of Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies’ Schlage AD-Series lets users adapt to new technologies easily, even when changing to wireless networking capabilities. Without replacing the lock users can upgrade network modules to go from an offline to networked solution. With its open architecture platform, users can now choose the specific electronic lock they need with full confidence that it can be later upgraded. The new Schlage AD-Series electronic locks handle Schlage or third-party software and are able to leverage existing network infrastructure. 

PERS Company Acquired

Rockbridge Growth Equity, LLC (RGE), Detroit, led the acquisition of Connect America LLC. Connect America products provide consumers the ability to immediately request medical assistance from anywhere in their home with just the press of a button. Falcon Investment Advisors, LLC partnered with RGE in the acquisition, providing subordinated debt and preferred equity financing. The companies also announced Ken Gross, Connect America’s founder and chief executive officer, will continue to be a substantial owner in the company and in his role as chief executive officer.

“Connect America is one of the largest direct to consumer players in the industry and its large, scalable platform has been instrumental in growing its business to more than 75,000 customers,” said RGE Partner Kevin Prokop. “We believe that Connect America’s unique expertise and exceptional management team will be the foundation for substantial growth in the years ahead.” Connect America was established in 2004 and is headquartered near Philadelphia, Penn.

“Rockbridge and its portfolio of companies support in marketing, technology and operations will be the key to growing our business and opening up new markets.”

SPP Advisors, LLC (formerly Security Performance Partners, LLC) represented Connect America in this transaction.  Peter Flynn, managing director, commented, “We believe that Connect America was a unique opportunity for Rockbridge to enter the PERS space by acquiring  one of the most dynamic and fastest growing companies in the industry.  Partnering with an industry leader like Ken Gross provides management and marketing expertise that is sure to lead to future growth and success.”

NFPA Gives Additional $4 million to Research Foundation

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced that it added $4 million to the endowment for the Fire Protection Research Foundation (Foundation). The Foundation is an independent nonprofit that plans, manages and communicates consortium-funded research on a broad range of fire safety issues in collaboration with scientists and laboratories around the world.  It is an affiliate of NFPA. NFPA established a $6 million endowment for the Foundation in 2008.
“Having solid research on fire and life safety issues is fundamental in supporting our codes and standards process and advancing our mission, which is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards,” said Jim Shannon, NFPA’s president. “Committing additional funds to the Fire Protection Research Foundation ensures that important research in this area will continue.”

In 1982, upon approval of NFPA’s board of directors, the Foundation was established to encourage and support independent research to coincide with NFPA’s mission.  Findings from Foundation projects are used by NFPA codes and standards technical committees as they develop new documents and update existing versions, as well as a varied audience in the fire protection community and beyond.

“This recent pledge of additional funds further solidifies what NFPA started in 2008,” said Kathleen Almand, executive director of the Foundation. “Strengthening our operations ensures our ability to continually develop research independently that is shared with those in the fire protection community who have come to rely on it.”

The Foundation’s work supports NFPA’s advocacy initiatives such as home fire sprinklers, as well as major research programs on fire detection and suppression systems. One of the more notable projects in the early history of the Foundation involved halon, a chemical widely used in fire protection communities, which was found to contribute to the depletion of the Earth’s protective stratospheric ozone layer. During the 1980’s, the Foundation directed research to identify best practices in the management of existing halon resources.

More recently, the Foundation completed several research projects on issues related to the implementation of home fire sprinklers. In 2008, it released a research report titled “Home Fire Sprinkler Cost Assessment,” which looked at 10 communities with sprinkler requirements and found the average cost of installing sprinkler systems to the home builder to be $1.61 per square foot of sprinkler coverage. For information, visit www.nfpa.org/foundation.

Fredrik Wallberg (right) of Milestone Systems accepted the award from Fredrik Nilsson of Axis Communications.

Milestone Systems Awarded Axis Development Partner of the Year

Milestone Systems, Beaverton, Ore., was awarded the 2010 Application Development Partner (ADP) of the Year for North America by Axis Communications Inc., Chelmsford, Mass., during its annual Axis Channel Convergence Conference (ACCC) that was held in Las Vegas, Nov. 15 through 17, 2010. Milestone was selected as a winner due to its close product collaboration and active engagement with Axis, the company said.

“Our ADPs are carefully selected companies that match our level of industry drive and innovation with a network video focus,” said Fredrik Nilsson, general manager at Axis Communications Inc. “Milestone has consistently elevated the IP surveillance market with their educational efforts and aggressively works alongside Axis as a true partner in product development and interoperability. We look forward to continuing our success of providing comprehensive customers solutions in the future.”

Milestone is a partner in the Axis ADP program, an initiative that assists software developers as they integrate Axis network video products to ensure compatibility and reliability for video management solutions and applications. ADPs can leverage the VAPIX® platform, technical documentation, Software Development Kits (SDKs), development support and the AXIS Camera Application Platform to create software and analytics solutions for customers.

“Axis is also a Milestone Manufacturer Alliance Partner (MAP) and our close relationship proceeds to grow worldwide, strengthening our leadership in the development of IP solutions for video surveillance,” states Henrik Friborg, VP of Strategic Alliances and Co-Founder of Milestone Systems.

Another synergy between Milestone Systems and Axis is the mutual commitment to working with ONVIF-compliant products (a standardization initiative for IP-based physical security products), where both companies strive to ensure IP interoperability to create best-in-class solutions and more options for customers.
The ACCC is an annual gathering of Axis’ top distributors, systems integrators, development partners, and strategic infrastructure partners in North America. The event includes educational sessions relating to IP-based technology trends, review of the Axis product portfolio and future plans, as well as highlights of customer success stories.

Survey Reveals ESA Member Expectations for Areas of Growth

Members of the Electronic Security Association (ESA), Irving, Texas, are expecting IP-based security, alternative alarm signal transmission, the control and monitoring of security systems via mobile devices and the integration of security devices on IT networks/backbones to be among the leading growth categories over the next two years, according to ESA’s Electronic Security Megatrends survey.

The results were announced at the ESA Leadership Summit during a panel discussion hosted by Merlin Guilbeau, ESA executive director; Joseph J. Nuccio, president/and chief executive officer of Alarm Security Group (ASG) and Leadership Summit chairman; Alex Dunn, chief operating officer of APX Alarm; and David Koenig, partner of Capital Fire & Security. These results show that ESA members averaged a 1.7 percent increase in revenues during 2010, a sign that the industry is experiencing some positive growth.

Nuccio said, “The survey results prove that we have lots of opportunity in new areas and it’s important that the security industry be aware, and take advantage of, these opportunities.”

More than 66 percent of survey respondents expect the use of alternative alarm signal transmission to grow more than 10 percent over the next two years, followed by mobile device control at 49 percent and integration on IT/networks and IP-based security each at 46 percent.

Hosted/remote video monitoring and video surveillance for non-security applications followed at 41 and 34 percent, respectively.

Survey respondents listed video surveillance, electronic access control, fire detection and intrusion detection as the four product categories to see the most annual growth over the next two years.

“It is clear from the study that the industry needs to look beyond just traditional security services. We understand that there is nothing more vulnerable than established entrenched success. Consumers want more. They want security combined with energy management services and the convenience of home automation — all in one,” said Dunn.

The survey also revealed expansion strategies, vertical market involvement, operational investment trends and the top 12 vertical growth markets for integration and monitoring members of ESA.

To receive a copy of the survey, visit www.esa-summit.com/reports/esa-megatrends-report/.

van Heijningen

Vindicator Technologies for Honeywell Has New General Manager

In his new role as general manager for Honeywell Systems’ Vindicator Technologies business, Franco P.L. van Heijningen will lead the business developing security systems for critical infrastructure. Vindicator® offers electronic security systems that protect critical assets and personnel within the government, military, commercial and industrial markets at more than 1,500 highly sensitive sites across the globe.

“I’m truly excited to have this opportunity to lead the Vindicator business,” van Heijningen said. “We’re poised to offer our customers the best products, programs and support they need to help them successfully protect their critical infrastructure now and well into the future.”

In his new role, van Heijningen will report to Scott Harkins, president and general manager of Honeywell Systems. “Franco has a remarkable knowledge of new technologies and new products related to the broader field of security and information technology, along with a passion for creating a high-performance work team using strong talent management practices,” said Harkins. “I know he’ll focus that passion on bringing maximum value to our customers.”

Van Heijningen brings more than 30 years of industry experience to Honeywell. Throughout his career he has held various roles of increasing responsibility, including senior-level electrical engineer and project management positions with consulting organizations in Asia and the Netherlands. Most recently, he served as a vice president of technology and personnel development. Van Heijningen will be based in Austin, Texas, where Honeywell’s Vindicator security systems are manufactured and supported.

Obama Endorses Repeal of Reporting Requirement for Small Businesses

During his State of the Union address to congress in February, President Barak Obama restated his support for repealing the 1099 reporting requirement passed within the health care legislation last year. The Electronic Security Association (ESA) believes the requirement places a heavy burden on the backs of the small business owners.

In his speech, President Obama agreed, stating, “Anything can be improved…We can start right now by correcting a flaw in the legislation that has placed an unnecessary bookkeeping burden on small businesses.”

Beginning in 2012, businesses will be required to report all goods and services transactions valued at more than $600 by filing a 1099 form with the IRS. The requirement would raise $19 billion over 10 years by allowing the federal government to collect taxes from those businesses that fail to report them.

ESA believes the provision will add mountains of additional paperwork and additional expenses to small business owners that can’t afford them during tough economic times. ESA’s government relations team, as part of a coalition that includes groups such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, has been lobbying Congress to have the provision repealed. Along with the President, both Democrats and Republicans in Congress have supported repealing the language.
Rep. Dan Lungren (R-CA) introduced H.R. 4, the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 to repeal the requirement. The measure has 258 co-sponsors and House Republicans have signaled that it will be one of their first pieces of business.

Similar bills have also recently been introduced in the Senate. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-NE) introduced S. 18, which currently has 55 co-sponsors. The measure would repeal the provision while also providing an offset for the $19 billion by rescinding $39 billion in unspent, unobligated funds from all accounts.

Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) have introduced S. 72, an identical measure to Lungren’s bill.
While bi-partisan support for a repeal of the requirement exists in Congress, lawmakers failed to reach an agreement and pass a bill before the end of the 111th Congress. ESA encouraged both the House and the Senate to work together to pass a repeal measure.

One2One Events Connect Manufacturers and Security Executives

One2One by ISC-Healthcare took place Feb. 27 to Mar. 2, 2011 at Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Austin, Texas. It was the second One2One event produced by ISC for the security-buying marketplace. The concept behind One2One events is facilitating an intimate buying and selling experience — in a resort setting — between security manufacturers and senior security executives with approved budgets and projects. More than $25 million dollars in purchasing power were represented by the buyers at the event.

“One2One by ISC-Campus debuted last June in Orlando where 96 percent of the attendees were completely satisfied with the experience,” said Nancy Largay, industry vice president, One2One Events. “The exceptional feedback from both solution providers and buyers has enabled us to expand into the healthcare vertical is that 96 percent would participate again and 88 percent would participate in another event.”

 One2One by ISC-Healthcare offered each security manufacturer sponsor a guaranteed number of in-person meetings with pre-qualified security executives. In addition, buyers and sellers also were able to participate in networking opportunities and social activities in an exclusive, casual, yet productive environment designed to strengthen newly formed relationships.

This year’s event featured leading security companies such as ADT Security, Interlogix Inc., JVC USA, Morpho Trak, Onity, Samsung Techwin America, Veracity USA, ASSA ABLOY Americas, Lauren Innovations, Lenel, Paxton Access, Toshiba Security Products Group and Video Insight, amongst others. Security buyer executives represented some of the most renowned healthcare facilites: Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Children’s Hospital Boston; Dane Farber Cancer Institute; Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Scripps Memorial Hospital LaJolla; Planned Parenthood Los Angeles; University of Chicago Hospitals, and Lehigh Valley Health Network.

One2One by ISC events are complementary to the ISC portfolio, which includes ISC West in April and ISC Solutions and Security Week in the fall, the company said. One2One by ISC events offer a unique buying/selling format between a controlled number of participants looking for specific product categories. ISC West and ISC East are larger, broad events that serve all vertical market segments for all security professionals such as corporate security professionals, integrators and dealers/installers.

“Buyers don’t want to replace the freedom of learning and comparing at the broad ISC events,” said Ed Nichols, vice president strategic accounts, ISC events, “However they are looking for help with the next step; the aggregation of targeted products and services that they need for their pending project. One2One by ISC provides that value, in a highly targeted manner with qualified buyers with approved budgets and pending projects meeting with qualified security solutions providers with the products they need for those projects, all under the trusted ISC brand.”

DMP Plans Expansion in 2011

Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) Springfield, Mo., broke ground for its fourth and largest expansion, the addition of 35,000 square feet of new manufacturing and warehouse space in Springfield. The increased size of the facility will allow DMP to meet the growing demand for its industry-leading array of intrusion, fire, access control, and network and cellular communication products.

“All signs point to continued growth for DMP,” said vice president of corporate services, Steve Powell. “Business has been very good, and we need the additional space to accommodate expected future growth. The new space will ensure that we can continue to meet the expectations of dealers for on-time delivery of the highest quality security system components, every one of them made here in Springfield.”

The DMP facility, originally built in 2000, has undergone three major expansions. The new construction now underway will be completed in April of this year. Additional hiring is planned to staff the expanded production and warehouse areas.

DMP is a privately held independent manufacturer of innovative intrusion, fire, access control, network and cellular communication products that are designed and made in the United States. DMP is the recognized leader in alarm communication over data networks, with products that are available through professional electronic security companies. For information, visit www.dmp.com.

Frost & Sullivan Names Market Penetration Leadership Winner

Frost & Sullivan announced that based on its recent analysis of the perimeter intrusion detection systems market, it recognized Optex Inc., Chino, Calif., with the 2010 North American Frost & Sullivan Award for Market Penetration Leadership of the Year. The company leverages more than 30 years of deploying security systems across the globe in every conceivable climatic condition to provide clients a broad portfolio of unique products; designed and used to protect highly sensitive installations.

“With the North American market moving to outdoor protection solutions, there are ample growth opportunities for Optex to capitalize on,” stated Frost & Sullivan industry analyst Ankur Jajoo. “Based on leading-edge advanced technologies, Optex’s intrusion detection system is easily integrated into full turnkey solutions, including perimeter intrusion protection, ground or air patrols, and alarm monitoring and control.”

According to Frost & Sullivan, Optex held a significant market share of 9.5 percent in the world perimeter intrusion detection systems market in 2010. By end of 2011, it is expected to reach 10.7 percent market share.

“Optex aims to increase its share through technological improvements, newer improved turnkey solutions and superior customer service,” said Jajoo. “In addition, Optex is further expanding its supply chain reach by introducing new partnership programs with suppliers and distributors.”

Finally, Optex beat the recession by utilizing and implementing best practices from its past low-cost solution projects into current and future projects. This strategy allowed it to gain further in roads in the highly competitive market. To maximize its market penetration, the company continues to offer improved services and solutions such as advanced training programs, competitive pricing and timely delivery, targeting higher customer satisfaction and improved return on investment for its customers.

Based on these factors, Frost & Sullivan presented the 2010 in the North American perimeter intrusion detection systems industry to Optex. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the award to a company that demonstrated excellence in capturing the highest market penetration within its industry. The award recognizes the company’s penetration within the industry in terms of revenues or units, as specified.

HID Acquires Government ID Solutions Manufacturer

HID Global, Irvine, Calif., a provider of solutions for the delivery of secure identity, announced that its parent company, ASSA ABLOY, completed the acquisition of LaserCard Corporation, a provider of secure ID solutions. The LaserCard acquisition further strengthened HID Global’s worldwide market position in the government ID market, and significantly expanded its portfolio of identity authentication and government-issued credential solutions, the company said.
LaserCard’s expertise ranges from secure card design and manufacture to issuance system implementation for large-scale citizen and resident identification programs. The company’s unique credential constructions feature LaserCard’s highly differentiated, counterfeit resistant optical security media (OSM) and embedded hologram technology that enables reliable credential authentication with the human eye.

“We are pleased to be adding such a strong talent base and product portfolio to the HID Global family,” said HID Global president and chief executive officer, Denis Hébert. ”LaserCard shares HID’s vision to be the trusted leader in solutions for the delivery of secure identity. Together we will offer compelling advantages as a single source for complete e-identity solutions within our joint installed base.”

Robert T. DeVincenzi, LaserCard president, commented that, “The combined HID Global and LaserCard organization delivers a unique value proposition to our customers and partners in the government-issued ID market. No other company offers the same breadth of products, technologies and service capabilities to the government e-identity segment. We now have the opportunity to accelerate our growth and diversification in this space by leveraging HID’s innovation expertise, strong market momentum and extensive global coverage.”

LaserCard extends HID’s secure identity offering to include all necessary components and capabilities for producing completed national and citizen IDs. The acquisition delivers key benefits, including extending HID’s product-development competencies in highly secure ID credential technology, its geographic presence, projects and channels in the citizen ID sector; and enhancing the company’s Identity On Demand (IOD) service offering and expertise.

HID also recently announced the acquisition of ActivIdentity, which strengthened the company’s portfolio of authentication and credential management solutions.

Larry Dolin (left) and Kenneth Gould.

American Security Systems Names New President

American Security Systems, Long Island City, N.Y., announced it named Kenneth Gould as president, succeeding founder Larry Dolin, who moved to the post of chief executive officer, a new position at the 31-year-old company, which was ranked 56th in the 2010 SDM 100 Report. Gould, American Security’s executive vice president and general manager since 2008, is a career executive in the security and fire protection industry. 

“The steady growth of our core business and our expansion into new products and services requires a new leadership structure for the company,” said Dolin, who is also the founder of Video Doorman, an interactive system for providing doorman services, such as secure package reception and live, monitored lobby and elevator tenant escort, for buildings without a doorman. “Ken’s exceptional work enabled us to continue growing in spite of the recession. His moving up to president will ensure American Security’s continued success while allowing me to focus on expanding the Video Doorman business and developing other new services.”

Gould, a Long Island City resident, was the founder of Gould Security, which he sold to ADT and then joined to become its general manager for Manhattan. Prior to his initial appointment at American Security, Gould was a consultant to several New York security and fire protection companies. “This is a major opportunity,” said Gould on his new promotion, “since American is poised for dramatic growth.”

Ky.-Based Security Companies Merge

CARE Security & Monitoring, Louisville, Ky., a full service security company in the Kentuckiana area, completed its largest merger ever with Advanced Security Koncepts of Louisville, Ky.

Advanced Security Koncepts was chosen because of its commitment to excellence in customer service, alarm system design, installation and service to its customers, the company said.

The company will be known as CARE Security and located at 990 E. Breckinridge Street, Louisville, Ky. 40204, CARE’s current home.
CARE Security received SDM’s inaugural First Line of Defense Award at NBFAA’s National Convention in Puerto Rico.

All Aboard for Dealer Conference
 

The folks at SentryNet are in high gear in preparation for the company’s 2011 Annual Dealer Conference to be held April 28 through May 2, 2011. The event has steadily attracted many dealers in the Southeast; however, this year there is such a buzz about the event that dealers from all over the country are making plans to attend. This year SentryNet is taking its dealers to Cozumel, Mexico aboard the cruise ship Carnival Elation.

“This has been a dream of mine” said David Avritt, president of SentryNet. “This just seems like the right year to do it. Everyone is tired of hearing about the recession and all this cold weather has us all longing for a little sunshine.”

Attendees always look forward to the informative classes held each year during this conference and they use the NTS CEUs they receive towards meeting their state licensing requirements, SentryNet said. Altronix is a platinum sponsor of the event and will be onboard to show independent dealers what the company can do to power them into sales.

SDM is the official media source for the cruise meeting and will deliver photos, tweets, and news right from the show. So be looking for all of the updates as the group enjoys its sail-away party on the first night of the cruise and then get all of the news from the trade show held on the second night.

Winsted Technical Interiors Division Rebrands
 

The Winsted Technical Interiors  (WTI) division of Winsted Corporation, Minneapolis, was renamed the Winsted Custom Division. Accompanying the name change is a new logo, which will begin appearing on all new sales and marketing materials.

“The new name reflects our focus on providing custom solutions to mission critical facilities in an increasing number of industries,” said Wayne Cook, vice president of Winsted. “Given the division’s significant experience engineering consoles for special applications, Winsted Custom Division is uniquely qualified to offer design oriented solutions for projects ranging from simulators to robotic control consoles.”

The name change further defines the company’s ongoing strategy to integrate custom design oriented solutions into the broader scope of Winsted’s product offerings.

Winsted Technical Interiors has been a provider of control room design since 1981 when it began work as The Human Factors Inc. In 2002, Winsted acquired Technical Interiors for its strength in creating comprehensive custom solutions.