Articles by Dave Engebretson

One of the many benefits of using IP physical security devices is the wide variety of connectivity options available. Dealers who are knowledgeable about the various IP devices and technologies can utilize existing fiber optic cables for separate networks that can span great distances, providing connectivity to remote buildings, within large locations and on campus-type installations. These separate or “parallel” networks are the best choice for large installations because the security devices are connected to separate cables and network switches, which should eliminate any bandwidth concerns that might be raised by the client’s IT department.

Recently the heat in my family’s bunker in Bucktown failed. Of course these events occur only during the polar vortex, so it was 12 degrees outside and 60 degrees and dropping in my house when I woke up that day.

 The year 1973 was a big one for me: high school graduation, starting college, getting a draft card (while the Vietnam War was still winding down) and purchasing Raw Power by Iggy and the Stooges. Gas was 40 cents a gallon; a case of beer was $6; and the technology that has now been condensed into smartphone apps filled entire rooms. 

 Against my wishes on a September weekend I found myself, wife and daughter at a little soiree called “RiotFest 2014.” Seven stages, four inches of mud, and 120 dB of 30-plus punk rock bands for three days in Humboldt Park in Chicago. The crowd was huge, more than 20,000 people on Sunday. I had managed to get out of going on Friday and Saturday, but my attendance was mandatory for the Sunday Cheap Trick show. The attendees sported bizarre hairdos, lots and lots of tattoos, and apparently some people think that they can now self-medicate because Illinois recently passed a medical marijuana law.  

Technology certainly has changed our lives. I remember family car trips in the 1960s when we had three kids fighting in the back seat while my father insisted that we make 350 miles between bathroom stops.

My recent visit to the ASIS show in Chicago demonstrated that my “18-year-old” brain just does not work the way it did when I was younger. Walking through the show, I saw a number of people that I’ve known in our industry for many years, but in many cases I could not remember their names.

“Win when you can. Lose when you must. But at all times, cheat.” — Pro Wrestler Extraordinaire, “Classy” Freddie Blassie