Jewelers Mutual® Makes Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75™, Receives Innovation Award

/in , /by

Jewelers Mutual® Group, the insurer and business solutions provider dedicated to protecting jewelry and jewelry businesses for 110 years, announced it has been named to Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75™ for the fifth consecutive year. This recognition underscores the company’s consistent growth and positive impact on the state’s business community. More notably, Jewelers Mutual was awarded the Distinguished Performer Award for Innovation, acknowledging its commitment to providing meaningful technology solutions to the jewelry and insurance industries.

Deloitte’s annual Wisconsin 75 list recognizes and honors the largest privately held companies that demonstrate remarkable growth and success within the state. Inclusion in this list reflects not only financial performance but also the strategic foresight and determination that drive a company forward. Jewelers Mutual has consistently displayed these qualities, achieving milestones that have set it apart as an industry leader for the past 110 years.

The innovation award, a distinction of the Wisconsin 75, rewards Jewelers Mutual’s innovative approach and commitment to solving industry challenges, fostering creativity among its team members, and embracing cutting-edge technologies. The unique approach has enabled Jewelers Mutual to achieve sustained growth and deliver exceptional value to its customers year after year.

“At Jewelers Mutual, we believe that innovation is essential for growth and progress,” said Scott Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer at Jewelers Mutual. “Being recognized on Deloitte’s Wisconsin 75 as well as a distinguished performer in innovation is a true honor. It validates our commitment to our customers and our continuous efforts to reimagine the role we play in our industry.”

Over the past several years, Jewelers Mutual has launched significant technology solutions for both jewelry businesses and jewelry consumers. Among the notable include the Zing® Marketplace technology ecosystem that empowers jewelers to streamline their day-to-day operations and the newly launched insurtech offering through the LUX Digital Vault®, a mobile app that assists consumers in protecting and managing their valuable jewelry.

“As we celebrate the achievements of these 75 enterprises, we are reminded of the driving force they represent in fueling economic growth and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our state. Deloitte is proud to recognize the economic impact of these 75 private companies in Wisconsin — the Wisconsin 75. This year we will not only celebrate the individual successes of each of these organizations, but also the collective impact of private companies in powering Wisconsin’s economy,” said P.J. DiStefano, Wisconsin managing partner of Deloitte LLP.

With a customer-centric approach and a focus on driving industry-wide progress, Jewelers Mutual maintains its reputation as a trusted advisor for the jewelry industry and jewelry consumers alike. For more information about Jewelers Mutual, its services and commitment to innovation, visit www.jewelersmutual.com.

The New DICE Awarded Patent for Gatekeeper Technology to Reduce Unnecessary Video Alarms to the Central Station

/in , /by

DICE Corporation has been awarded U.S. Patent # 11688273B2 for the Gatekeeper, a digital video alarm monitoring solution that prevents multiple and unnecessary video alarms from being received by the central station. This allows operators to focus on true alarms.

 The Gatekeeper is a patented technology that reduces cellular data usage and operator time for alarm monitoring systems. By filtering out rampant video alarms and events not required by the central station, the Gatekeeper helps businesses save money. This is especially beneficial for cameras connected to cellular modems.

For instance, the Gatekeeper monitors digital video alarm status and identifies events that are not required to be transmitted to the central station. These events can include alarms from cameras on test or alarms that are not scheduled to be transmitted at a certain time. The Gatekeeper discards these events, preventing the camera from using its data plan. This can save businesses a significant amount of money, especially if they have a large number of cameras or if they are using a cellular modem with a limited data plan.

Cellular modems can be expensive to operate, especially for businesses with a large number of cameras. The Gatekeeper reduces cellular data usage and operator time by filtering out rampant video alarms and events that are not required by the central station.

For example, the Gatekeeper can block alarms from cameras that are on test or alarms that are not scheduled to be transmitted at a certain time. The Gatekeeper can also block irrelevant alarms from lower-end cameras that are prone to sending multiple events during wind or rainstorms.

By filtering out these unwanted alarms, the Gatekeeper helps businesses save money and ensures that operators have the bandwidth they need to view the cameras that are most important.

DICE also has an artificial intelligence product for filtering alarms, but the Gatekeeper patent is different because it works before the alarm is even received at the central station. This makes it the “first line of defense” against unwanted alarms. If a camera sends an alarm, the Gatekeeper will prevent it from sending another alarm half a second later. This can be helpful for reducing bandwidth usage and preventing operators from being overwhelmed by a flood of alarms.

The Gatekeeper is configurable, making it a valuable tool for central stations, integrators, and end users alike.

Clifford Dice, founder and CEO of DICE Corporation, said: “The Gatekeeper is a fitting name for this technology because it guards the gate of signals entering the central station. This patent strengthens our intellectual property portfolio in the field of automation monitoring systems and software and is a valuable asset that will protect and enhance our ability to continue investing in innovative technology.”

The New DICE is currently licensing the Gatekeeper technology to other companies so that they can integrate it into their automation monitoring software.

For more information on DICE Corporation, visit www.dicecorp.com or call 989-891-2800.

Top Tips: Winning Strategies For Software Patents in an Open Source Environment

/in , /by

Have you ever found yourself thinking that patents are not worth much in the open source world?

As a software developer, the idea that patents don’t hold much weight in open source environments may seem logical to you.

However, it’s important to know that patents are key for open source environments too.

In fact, software patents govern the underlying method, algorithm or system behind the code, while open source licenses operate independently, right?

Well, not exactly.

In this post, I discuss winning strategies for software patents in an open source environment.

Software patents are crucial for open-source environments.

Patents protect underlying systems on which open source code is built and applied.

Without these patents, it would be impossible to protect the valuable intellectual property that the software’s algorithms or methods provide.

That’s why software developers must ensure that any open-source code they use is well-documented and licensed appropriately.

Software patents also play a crucial role in upholding standards of quality and driving innovation within the open source environment.

Open-source software licenses do not render software patents invalid.

Patents govern the underlying methods, algorithms and systems of the software, while open-source licenses apply specifically to the code itself. 

As long as the underlying technology is original and novel and meets patentability criteria, then these patents apply to both open-source and proprietary code.

Therefore, inventors should always consider patent application filings in both environments, ensuring overall protection of their intellectual property.

Open-source code adopters must adhere strictly to the open-source license requirements, especially when codes are integrated into commercial products or services.

Some license agreements prohibit the use of software patents in enforcing measures such as litigations or preventing the development of further free software.

Adherence to open-source license requirements means developers can still use patented technologies alongside open-source software with permissions granted by the original patent holders.

Another factor to consider is the defense of such patents.

An inventor may choose to not enforce or sue infringers of said software patents so long as it does not threaten the underlying software’s license.

This not only protects open source projects from legal disputes, but it also encourages collaboration in innovation efforts.

Summary:

In summary, software patents are essential in both open-source and proprietary code environments.

  • It is crucial for developers to consider patents as they protect underlying methods or systems of software that open-source licenses do not cover.
  • Patent applications ensure that innovators gain protection in both environments and guard against intellectual property theft.
  • Adhering to open-source license requirements allows developers to avoid legal disputes and enforce such patents where necessary.
  • By encouraging innovation and collaboration, software patents play an integral role in the progress of the open source community.

Want to learn more about patenting software?  Get my free eBook “4 Expert Tips to Increase Your Value by Patenting Your Unique Software.”

About the Author
Randi Karpinia, is a CEO, legal expert, attorney, and legal advisor for small businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs, Sagacity Legal, PLLC: Small business legal strategy, protection, policies, agreements, and guidance. She can be reached at randi@sagacitylegal.com

Verkada Partners With Convergint to Deliver Smarter, More Secure Buildings

/in , /by

Cloud-based enterprise building security and managed services platform Verkada has partnered with service-based systems integrator Convergint, according to a joint announcement.

Driven by “a shared commitment to safety and customer service, paired with Convergint’s vast global footprint and Verkada’s best-in-class technology,” the partnership “will empower both organizations to serve a broader global customer base,” the announcement says.

“Convergint is focused on being our customers’ best service provider,” says Joe Young, vice president of partnerships and alliances for Convergint, in the joint announcement. “By enabling security incident reduction, improving response time, and optimizing threat management, Verkada’s cloud platform supports making the world safer for our customers and communities.

“We’re excited to work closely with Verkada to deliver these solutions to our global customers,” he says.

Verkada’s cloud-based building security and management platform has grown and evolved since the company was founded in 2016.

y cameras, door-based access control, environmental sensors, alarms, intercoms and workplace management.

“We have long admired Convergint and are delighted that today we can partner with their team to enhance safety in the communities we serve together,” says Filip Kaliszan, CEO of Verkada, in the joint announcement.

“They have created a strong, service-focused culture and consistently live up to their mission to be customers’ best service providers,” he says.

PureTech PureTech Earns Four Platinum and One Gold 2023 New Product of the Year Awards (NPOY) from Security Today

/in , /by

PureTech announced that its cutting-edge solutions have received four platinum level and one gold level, 2023 Security Today, New Product of the Year Awards!

The company’s PureActiv Software Platform, which is widely known for its patented, Geospatial, AI-Boosted Video Analytics earned Platinum Level Awards for categories in Autonomous Response Surveillance, Outdoor Perimeter Protection, and Video Analytics. Additionally, PurifAI Software, a ubiquitous solution that eliminates nuisance alarms for central stations won a Gold Level Award for the Monitoring Solutions category and a Platinum Level Award for the SOC Automation Suite category.

“In the realm of security, innovation is essential. When judging new security products, remember that they should not just meet today’s challenges but also anticipate the threats of tomorrow,” said Ralph C. Jensen, publisher of Security Today magazine. “By taking a proactive and holistic approach to security products and technology, customers can better anticipate and adapt to ongoing physical security needs in commercial and industrial settings, ensuring the safety of assets, employees, and operations.”

The Security Today New Product of the Year Awards are granted to manufacturers whose products demonstrate exceptional achievements in solution development and have the potential to significantly enhance security measures.

Larry Bowe, President & CEO of PureTech Systems, expressed his enthusiasm upon receiving this news, stating, “These awards are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and expertise that our team brings to the table every day. We are incredibly honored to have our efforts recognized by Security Today.” Further, Mr. Bowe said, “The receipt of these awards underscores the company’s ability to develop and deliver highly reliable and field tested, cutting-edge technology.”

For more details, you can visit the official announcement on the Security Today website: 2023 Security Today New Product of the Year Winners.

NAPCO Adds New National Trainer, Tim Cahoon

/in , /by

NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc. is happy to introduce the addition of Tim Cahoon, National Training Manager, reporting to VP of Sales, Napco Fire & Security, Michael Venoit.
Ideal for extending Napco’s west coast training support, based in Phoenix, AZ, Cahoon, will be providing new product introductions and technical classes on Napco’s full range of residential and commercial solutions, in person and online, including award-winning Prima All-in-One Security/Connected Home/Automation Panel, as well as StarLink Max 5G Cell/IP Communicators, FireLink FACU with built-in StarLink comm. and Napco Access lines.

Tim comes to Napco with 20+ years of experience in the low voltage security and life safety industry, and proven expertise in sales & relationship management; coaching and developing sales teams for new business growth, in addition to one of distinguished US military service. For Napco’s dynamic training schedule visit and/or register at www.napcosecurity.com/seminars. Feel free to reach out to Tim at tcahoon@napcosecurity.com or cell 602-881-3008.

NAPCO Names Jim Pless, Southeast Regional Sales Manager

/in , /by

NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc., Amityville, NY, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Pless, as the new Regional Sales Manager for Napco’s Southeast sales territory, including North & South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia, replacing David Sperber, who was recently promoted to Napco’s new National Accounts Director.
Jim joins Napco’s sales team, providing a wealth of security experience, in all aspects of the industry, working with several top manufacturers, dealers and central stations, and from executive sales to operations management. He will report to Michael Venoit, VP of Sales, Napco Fire & Security, who commented, “With Jim’s extensive background, in residential system sales in particular, he’s joining Napco at an ideal time to support dealers, with our new introductions of award-winning Prima All-in-One Security/Connected Home/Automation Self-Contained Solution, as well as StarLink Max 5G Cell/IP Communicators, FireLink FACU with built-in StarLink comm. and Napco Access lines.”

As Napco Southeast Regional Sales Manager, Pless, based in Georgia, will offer area dealers expert sales support, insights & new product introductions, with the goal of growing their business with Napco’s intrusion & commercial fire security solutions. Dealer/Integrators in NC, SC, GA, & VA, feel free to reach out to Jim at jpless@napcosecurity.com or cell 631-942-4017 or Michael Venoit, VP of Sales, Napco Fire Security mvenoit@napcosecurity.com. See all of Napco’s labor-saving products at GSX or ISC East Expos, or online at www.napcosecurity.com

PureTech Wins Five Awards at GSX

/in , /by

PureTech announced that its cutting-edge solutions have received four platinum level and one gold level, 2023 Security Today, New Product of the Year Awards.

The company’s PureActiv Software Platform, which is widely known for its patented, Geospatial, AI-Boosted Video Analytics earned Platinum Level Awards for categories in Autonomous Response Surveillance, Outdoor Perimeter Protection, and Video Analytics. Additionally, PurifAI Software, a ubiquitous solution that eliminates nuisance alarms for central stations won a Gold Level Award for the Monitoring Solutions category and a Platinum Level Award for the SOC Automation Suite category.

“In the realm of security, innovation is essential. When judging new security products, remember that they should not just meet today’s challenges but also anticipate the threats of tomorrow,” said Ralph C. Jensen, publisher of Security Today magazine. “By taking a proactive and holistic approach to security products and technology, customers can better anticipate and adapt to ongoing physical security needs in commercial and industrial settings, ensuring the safety of assets, employees, and operations.”

The Security Today New Product of the Year Awards are granted to manufacturers whose products demonstrate exceptional achievements in solution development and have the potential to significantly enhance security measures.

Larry Bowe, President & CEO of PureTech Systems, expressed his enthusiasm upon receiving this news, stating, “These awards are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and expertise that our team brings to the table every day. We are incredibly honored to have our efforts recognized by Security Today.” Further, Mr. Bowe said, “The receipt of these awards underscores the company’s ability to develop and deliver highly reliable and field tested, cutting-edge technology.”

Three New ECCs Go Live with TMA’s ASAP Service

/in , , /by

TMA is pleased to announce the addition of three new ECCs to it’s growing list of ASAP-to-PSAP service users. All three went live during the week of August 14th.

The implementations were managed by Dianne Flanagan and Bill Hobgood.

Oswego County NY #132

The Oswego County NY Communications Center became the 132nd Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in the United States and the 7th ECC in the state of New York to implement the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP).  Oswego County went live the week of August 14, 2023: Vector Security, Rapid Response Monitoring, Amherst Alarm, Doyle, Vivint, Security Central, Securitas (Stanley Division), Tyco (Johnson Controls), United Central Control, Protection One, Affiliated Monitoring, Securitas, Brinks Home Security, National Monitoring Center, Guardian Protection, and ADT.

Lewis County NY #133

The Lewis County NY Communications Center became the 133rd Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in the United States and the 8th ECC in the state of New York to implement the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP).  Lewis County went live the week of August 14, 2023: Rapid Response Monitoring, Amherst Alarm, Doyle, Securitas (Stanley Division), Tyco (Johnson Controls), United Central Control, Protection One, Affiliated Monitoring, Brinks Home Security Protection, and ADT.

Seneca County NY #134

The Seneca County NY Communications Center became the 134th Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in the United States and the 9th ECC in the state of New York to implement the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP).  Seneca County went live on August 16, 2023 with the following companies: Vector Security, Rapid Response Monitoring, Guardian Protection, Securitas, Security Central, Amherst Alarm, Vivint, Securitas (Stanley Division), Brinks Home Security, National Monitoring Center, Doyle, Protection One, ADT, and Affiliated Monitoring.