SightLogix Celebrates 20th Anniversary

SightLogix is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Founded in 2004, SightLogix manufactures smart thermal video detection systems specifically designed for outdoor use.

“2024 marks our 20th year of solving arguably one of the hardest security problem sets for our customers: reliable and accurate outdoor detection, with affordable products that are easy to use,” said Jim Hahn, Chairman and CEO at SightLogix, in a statement. “By harnessing edge processing power and integrating emerging technologies such as AI, we continue our legacy of delivering a high performing, reliable and innovative intruder detection system. Our customers can sleep at night, literally and figuratively, knowing that their critical assets are protected.”

SightLogix highlights include:

2007: SightSensor, a fully integrated, edge-based, smart video sensor for the outdoors
2009: SightTracker for automated Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) control
2015: SightSensor TC dual-sensor Thermal-Visible Camera
2017: SightSensor HD, affordable thermal-visible camera to enable reliable Remote Video RMR commercial services
2020: Dual Sensor Analytics – detects with thermal and visible in real time
2023: SightTracker PTZ with Edge AI – automatically follows intruders throughout the site
2024: Thermal AI filtering innovation to virtually eliminate outdoor nuisance alarms, 24/7

Customer success stories include:

Long-range perimeter applications in harsh environments (from the Middle East to the Canadian Oil Sands); U.S. Dept of Homeland Security, DoD sites and high-profile locations like the World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial; transportation asset protection around the world (bridge, tunnel, rail, and airport infrastructure); major utility substation networks across the US and EMEA; perimeter protection for global data centre facilities; commercial asset protection in partnership with security dealers like BOS Security, Elite Interactive, and many others.

DMP Partners with Wavelynx to Introduce Mobile Wallet Integration for Virtual Keypad™ App

Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) has released a new update to Virtual Keypad, which introduces mobile wallet credentials powered by Wavelynx – a leader in advanced, secure and versatile reader and credential solutions. This update brings the latest in mobile credential technology to the DMP line of access control products and services.

“Adding this functionality to Virtual Keypad allows DMP dealers to offer the latest in access credential technologies without the burden of deploying multiple processes and apps,” said Warren Hill, executive director of product management at DMP. “Customers are able to upgrade their access control with the app they already use to manage their systems.”

Virtual Keypad is a software platform developed and supported by DMP that allows end users to easily and conveniently manage all aspects of their security and access control systems. Having mobile wallet credentials integrated into Virtual Keypad paves the way for future credential management. Mobile wallet credentials enhance security across facilities and introduce a new level of convenience, reflecting society’s shift toward mobile-based solutions for all aspects of daily life.

“Our partnership with DMP to power their mobile wallet credential and reader solution reflects our shared commitment to delivering innovative and secure access solutions for customers,” said Rob Lydic, president of Wavelynx. “Together, we’re providing users with greater flexibility while upholding the highest security standards in modern access control.”

Mobile wallet credentials allow users to add their access credentials to Apple® and Google® devices, enabling them to use their phones for access control when used with compatible readers, like the new DMP multi-technology readers powered by Wavelynx. While Bluetooth credentials rely on a device’s Bluetooth communication, wallet credentials use the NFC technology found in most modern smartphones. This NFC technology is the same secure and reliable system used for tap-to-pay transactions. With this technology, the credential will grant access even if the Virtual Keypad app is not running—and works even when the phone is not charged.

A new, more flexible option for purchasing credentials is also being implemented with the introduction of this service. DMP Dealers can sign up for a monthly subscription to a pool of reusable credentials.

Security Gives Back: Verkada Reaches Into Community and Around the World to Help

Three years ago, Verkada launched Verkada Gives, a community service initiative that started by embracing and helping causes near its headquarters location during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic before eventually expanding to about 20 countries around the world.

With a mission of “giving back to communities in which we’re living, working and operating in,” there are three components to Verkada Gives: donations of money, donations of products and donating time, says Verkada vice president of people Dervilla Lannon.

The company is constantly talking about how to expand the Verkada Gives program outreach and make it better through a company Slack channel, says Lannon, who challenged the sales team to do the most volunteer work in the company to earn a prize during her keynote at the company sales summit.

“It’s really just awesome to see them provide insight into the into the cause, what work they’re doing and perhaps how they’ve contributed or we’ve contributed,” says Lannon about the Verkada Gives Slack channel discussion.

“People post their pictures and I definitely think it builds interest amongst the rest of the employee base in terms of what other teams are doing,” she says, noting the company offers all employees two days off per year to dedicate to volunteering.

Axis Communications Opens First Southern Cone Technology Experience Center in Chile

Axis Communications celebrated the grand opening of its newest Axis Experience Center (AEC) in Santiago, Chile—the first AEC to be constructed within the southernmost part of South America, otherwise known as the Southern Cone.

The Chile AEC will serve industry professionals across five Latin American countries—Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Bolivia—benefiting key industries in the region, including critical infrastructure, mining, and smart cities. Within the experience center, local Axis partners and customers will be able to observe and gain hands-on experience with the latest Axis technology innovations across video, audio, analytics, and security controls.

As both the capital and largest city in Chile, Santiago is rapidly emerging as a hub for innovation within Latin America’s technological landscape. This growing market will only continue to expand with the addition of Axis’ newest AEC, which is sure to further stoke smart technology interest and adoption within the region and surrounding countries, in addition to providing accessible resources and critical on-the-ground support. The AEC will support both current and future Axis partners in the region, providing a convenient physical location where organizations can improve their knowledge and understanding of modern security solutions.

“The opening of our new Chile experience center is a monumental moment for Axis,” said Leopoldo Ruíz, Regional Director for Latin America at Axis Communications. “It demonstrates our steadfast commitment to providing our partners and customers across the globe with the highest quality products and services within both the security and broader technology spaces.”

In addition, Luis Mariano Vega, Area Sales Manager for South Cone, stated, “Thanks to our AECs in Latin America and beyond, we’re able to build deeper, more trusting relationships with local businesses, as these facilities offer an easy and accessible way to experiment with our technology and get answers to important questions. Our goal is to continue fostering trust with our partners and customers within the Southern Cone, and we are excited to see what this new chapter in the Axis story will bring.”

The new 3,659-square-foot AEC will provide an immersive, interactive, and user-friendly experience for local Axis partners and visitors. The facility will allow visitors to experience a wide range of unique capabilities and features, including:

  • Simulation scenarios where visitors can test out specific conditions based on different industry segments such as critical infrastructure, mining, and energy, as well as experiment with the latest Axis security solutions for each scenario.
  • Displays and demonstrations for AXIS Perimeter Defender, offering high-security perimeter surveillance and protection, and AXIS Object Analytics, which detects, classifies, tracks, and counts objects to provide actionable insights for more informed decision-making.
  • In addition to solutions from the Axis product line, offerings from Aidant Intelligent Technology, Araani, Genetec, ISS, Milestone, Camstreamer, and Vaxtor will also be on display and available for demonstration.

“Over the years, both companies have worked hand in hand, building an excellent relationship based on trust and collaboration in all areas,” said Cristián M. Barraza Navarro, Regional Sales Director for the Southern Cone at Genetec, an Axis partner. “This relationship will be further strengthened now that both companies will have the new Axis Experience Center in Santiago. It will be an incredible opportunity, as it will allow people to test and personally verify the features, advantages, and functionalities of AXIS products and solutions.”

“For Mercado Libre and at the Internal System Department, we are very pleased to have a local Axis Experience Center featuring the latest products and solutions,” added Daniel Hernández Gómez, Internal System Senior Analyst at Mercado Libre, an Axis customer. “It will undoubtedly be a great asset for the projects we are currently working on and serve as a support for future projects.”

“Axis has been a cornerstone in the initiative I launched to connect municipalities with video surveillance companies,” said César Figueroa, Senior Engineer of Telecommunications and Electronic Security Systems at the Santiago Metropolitan Regional Government, another Axis customer. “Now having an Axis Experience Center significantly enhances the ability of municipalities to explore, evaluate, and test its solutions. It’s an invaluable resource, which provides strong support for both current and future projects.”

Axis, along with Ted Wiklund, Sweden’s Ambassador to Chile, local partners, customers, and stakeholders, will celebrate the Chile AEC grand opening with a formal ribbon cutting on October 16 and 17. The event featured music, speeches, presentations, and tours of the new facility given by local Axis experts, in addition to special activities for attending media. The Chile AEC is located at Av. Vitacura 2827, oficina 801, Las Condes, Santiago de Chile. To schedule a time to tour the new Axis Experience Center or to learn more about the facility and its resources, please email Tamara Castro, our Office Services Coordinator in Santiago (tamara.castro@axis.com).

Stealth Monitoring Acquired by GardaWorld

Montreal-based GardaWorld said in a company statement that it has completed the acquisition of Stealth Monitoring.

The acquisition was first announced on Oct. 21; regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions were satisfied on Oct. 31.

Building on the foundation of the GardaWorld ECAMSECURE mobile surveillance unit platform, the acquisition of Stealth Monitoring “will establish a global leader in AI-powered remote video monitoring solutions,” according to the company. GardaWorld says this acquisition will introduce proprietary technology and product expertise as well as unite the complementary strengths and technologies of both companies.

Stealth Monitoring has approximately 2,000 employees across 40+ offices and eight video monitoring centres. The company has U.S. headquarters in Dallas and Canadian headquarters in Toronto. Stealth merged with Toronto-based UCIT in 2016 and combined operations under the Stealth Monitoring name in 2018.

Guardian Security acquires Security Lock, Safe & Alarm

Guardian Security Systems has acquired Security Lock, Safe & Alarm. A Tacoma-based family-run business, Security Lock, Safe and Alarm is known for its dedication to personalized service and has been servicing the Greater Tacoma market since 1922. This acquisition strengthens Guardian’s presence in the South Sound market while preserving the local, customer-first approach that Security Lock, Safe & Alarm clients have valued over the years.

Vince Wingerter, representing Security Lock, Safe & Alarm, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Our clients have come to expect personal attention and high-quality service from us, and we are thrilled to partner with Guardian. This collaboration allows us to enhance our offerings while continuing to provide the same level of care and attention our customers deserve.”

“We love when we can help a family business transition to another family business as they are looking to exit. The Wingerter’s customers will be well taken care of out of our local Fircrest Office,” said Ainsley Close, President of Guardian Security.

Allied Universal Named to Newsweek List of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans

TMA member Allied Universal®, a leading security and facility services company, has been named to the Newsweek list of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans 2024/2025. Receiving the highest ranking of five out of five stars, the publication evaluated the company’s official programs for veterans, reviews and information from social media platforms.

“We have tens of thousands of veterans on our team around the globe. No longer on active duty, they continue their commitment to lifesaving, protecting and defending people and communities,” said Allied Universal Global Chairman and CEO Steve Jones. “We are honored to work alongside these amazing team members from all branches of the military. It’s with gratitude and pride that we thank each and every veteran working at Allied Universal.”

Allied Universal is committed to building a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that fully supports its commitment to becoming an Employer of Choice, including providing rewarding career opportunities to veterans and those newly transitioning out of military service.

To read more, visit https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-greatest-workplaces-veterans-2024-25.

Brinks Home Unveils Account Value Calculator for Selling Home Security, Alarm Accounts

Brinks Home recently launched its new Account Value Calculator (AVC), billed as an AI-enabled tool that provides home security business owners with a transparent and confidential method to value their alarm account portfolios in just days. The new tool facilitates both small and large transactions while enabling rapid access to liquidity, according to announcement.

AVC is also said to offer support for divesting additional assets with the purchase of alarm accounts, such as inventory and vehicles, ensuring a seamless onboarding process for customers transitioning to Brinks Home. The AVC marks the inaugural offering of the new Brinks Home B2B hub, Brinks Home Exchange (BHX), set to launch fully next year.

“The Account Value Calculator is just the beginning of an exciting journey for us and our current and future partners,” said William Niles, CEO of Brinks Home. “This tool provides immediate value by enabling partners to easily assess their portfolios and access liquidity. However, it’s also a foundational element of our long-term strategy to create a robust platform that will streamline operations, enhance collaboration and open new opportunities for growth.”

Featuring competitive, AI-generated pricing, the AVC simplifies the valuation process, reduces costs and minimizes manual touchpoints. The tool accelerates the traditional offer process from the industry standard of 15 days to as quickly as two business days. Brinks Home expertise spans various transactions, including purchasing individual accounts, large bulk acquisitions and business acquisitions, with customizable deal structures to meet diverse partner needs, according to the announcement.

Upon the seller receiving their valuation and choosing to proceed, Brinks Home will facilitate the process to acquire the seller’s customer accounts. In addition to facilitating transactions for individual accounts, Brinks Home is positioned to purchase entire books-of-business for companies looking to liquidate their enterprise. The dedicated Brinks Home team will collaborate closely with partners to develop customized purchase structures that align with both parties’ strategic goals.

“As we prepare for the full BHX platform launch in 2025, we are committed to developing a cutting-edge online platform that addresses the complexities of selling alarm accounts,” said Mike Hackett, senior vice president of enterprise business development at Brinks Home. “The AVC tool alleviates the stress associated with valuation and transaction processes, making it easier for our partners to achieve their goals.”

Guardian Protection Expands Central Florida Presence With Vortex Security Buy

Guardian Protection has acquired Vortex Security, based in Jupiter, Fla. Vortex has operated in Florida since 2013, professionally installing commercial and residential security systems.

The acquisition is said to increase Guardian Protection’s customer base primarily in its central Florida footprint.

Guardian Protection President Bryan Cipoletti commented, “This is another highlight in our continuing journey toward profitable expansion. Guardian is financially strong and eager to acquire like-minded companies. We plan to actively pursue acquisition opportunities that make sense for us.”

Vortex Security, which placed 79th in the 2024 SDM 100 rankings, is Guardian Protection’s third acquisition since 2021, when it acquired Rampart Security Systems in Pennsylvania. Guardian acquired Vintage Security of Maryland in 2023.

Vortex’s products and customer base parallel with Guardian’s business and the transition is expected to be seamless. Vortex customers will transition from Vortex’s third-party monitoring center to Guardian’s U.L.-certified, Five Diamond accredited monitoring facilities and in-house customer services.

Securitas Awarded 2024 National System Integrator of the Year by Axis Communications

Securitas Technology was recently awarded the 2024 National System Integrator of the Year by Axis Communications at its 19th annual Axis Connect and Converge Conference (ACCC) held in Nashville, TN. The company was recognized for its innovative solutions and dedication to meeting its clients’ needs.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from Axis Communications,” said Tony Byerly, Global President and CEO of Securitas Technology. “Our shared values and focus on innovation have allowed us to create exceptional solutions for our clients, helping them navigate complex security challenges while staying at the forefront in today’s dynamic environment. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication, the strength of our partnerships, and our ongoing commitment to help make your world a safer place.”

“Success is built on partnerships, and on behalf of Axis, it is my pleasure to congratulate Securitas Technology on being named the 2024 National System Integrator of the Year. Securitas Technology’s dedication to their clients and the exceptional work they do solving their challenges continues to amaze me,” said Larry Newman, Senior Director of Sales, Axis Communications, Inc. “We’re grateful for our incredible partners who continuously go above and beyond. Together we are making the world a smarter, safer place.”

Axis works with more than 90,000 partners across 179 countries at every stage. Axis’ partner network includes the Channel Partner Program, the Technology Integration Partner Program, the Architecture & Engineering Program, and the Axis Developer Community. For more information about Axis’ partner programs, visit www.axis.com/en-us/partner/programs.