DMP Introduces DualSIM Communicators

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) announced the addition of DualSIM capabilities to several of its communication products. DualSIM functionality allows one communicator to transmit signals over Verizon and AT&T networks — a feature rapidly growing in demand. To meet this demand, new DualSIM versions of CellCom, DualCom and PowerCom Fire are now available.

DualSIM products improve the customer experience with increased reliability and fewer service calls. Dealers can choose to activate one provider or both, eliminating the customary service call needed to change carriers. When both carriers are activated, an improved communication process with additional benefits is enabled:

  • The control panel chooses a primary cell carrier based on signal strength.
  • Every hour, the panel will check the signal of the primary carrier.
  • If the signal strength indicates risk of losing connection, the system checks the secondary carrier’s signal, automatically switching over if its signal is better.
  • During alarm transmission, if a signal fails with one carrier, the system will switch to the other carrier to deliver the message to the monitoring center.

“This exciting feature offers triple redundancy for alarm signals when combined with network communication,” said Warren Hill, executive director of product management at DMP. “When a customer uses DualSIM alongside our exclusive Adaptive Technology, if there are network issues for any reason, the panel will dynamically switch from network, to the primary cell carrier, to the secondary carrier as needed. That’s three ways your alarm message can get through when you need it most.”

If the network communication path is disrupted, Adaptive Technology seamlessly switches to the panel’s cellular path, ensuring constant supervision at the same check-in rate. DualSIM adds a third layer by having another cellular option. Additionally, DMP provides free network communication, enabling dealer partners the ability to increase profitability.

While other DualSIM products on the market check the cellular signal strength once a day, the DMP solution checks every hour—24 times as often as competitors—ensuring reliable and uninterrupted communications to the monitoring center when it matters most.

Learn more at DMP.com/DualSIM-Communicators.

 

RAD Announces AVA Gen 4 AI-Powered Access Control for HOAs and Commercial Applications

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Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD) proudly announced the launch of AVA™ (Autonomous Verified Access) Gen 4, an advanced AI-powered access control solution for both residential and commercial applications. Completely redesigned inside and out, AVA Gen 4 integrates new hardware, an entirely rewritten software platform, and groundbreaking security enhancements to serve a broader range of clients, from homeowner associations (HOAs) to logistics and distribution centers.

Read the full release HERE

SS&Si Dealer Network to Distribute Entrance Control Solutions

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SS&Si Dealer Network has announced the addition of ZKTeco USA’s entrance control and access control products to its growing catalog.

With an initial batch of stock available in their warehouses, dealers can now access ZKTeco USA’s trusted security solutions directly through SS&Si Dealer Network. ZKTeco USA is a global provider of entrance control solutions, offering a wide range of products designed to enhance security and streamline operations. Its lineup includes turnstiles, metal detectors, X-ray machines, and other advanced screening solutions that help secure facilities of all sizes.

In addition to these cutting-edge entrance control products, ZKTeco USA provides a comprehensive suite of access control solutions, ensuring seamless integration and top-tier physical security.

“Entrance control is often an overlooked aspect of a comprehensive physical security strategy, yet it plays a critical role in safeguarding facilities,” said Jake Voll, president at SS&Si Dealer Network. “By expanding our offerings with ZKTeco USA’s entrance solutions, we are equipping our dealers with the tools they need to address this crucial security gap and enhance overall site protection for their clients.”

SS&Si Dealer Network remains committed to providing high-quality security products and ensuring their dealers have access to solutions for every situation. The addition of ZKTeco USA’s entrance control products aligns with their mission to offer top-tier security equipment that empowers dealers to grow their businesses. Dealers can place orders now at shop.ssandsi.com or by reaching out to their account representative.

SS&Si Dealer Network is a trusted national distributor of security and low-voltage products, dedicated to supporting security professionals with top brands, expert resources, and customer support.

For additional information, please contact Tyler Martin, SS&Si Dealer Network marketing & communications manager, at tylerm@ssandsi.com or 1-866-364-0030 x 27

SS&Si Dealer Network has announced the addition of ZKTeco USA’s entrance control and access control products to its growing catalog.

With an initial batch of stock available in their warehouses, dealers can now access ZKTeco USA’s trusted security solutions directly through SS&Si Dealer Network. ZKTeco USA is a global provider of entrance control solutions, offering a wide range of products designed to enhance security and streamline operations. Its lineup includes turnstiles, metal detectors, X-ray machines, and other advanced screening solutions that help secure facilities of all sizes.

SS&Si Dealer NetworkIn addition to these cutting-edge entrance control products, ZKTeco USA provides a comprehensive suite of access control solutions, ensuring seamless integration and top-tier physical security.

“Entrance control is often an overlooked aspect of a comprehensive physical security strategy, yet it plays a critical role in safeguarding facilities,” said Jake Voll, president at SS&Si Dealer Network. “By expanding our offerings with ZKTeco USA’s entrance solutions, we are equipping our dealers with the tools they need to address this crucial security gap and enhance overall site protection for their clients.”

SS&Si Dealer Network remains committed to providing high-quality security products and ensuring their dealers have access to solutions for every situation. The addition of ZKTeco USA’s entrance control products aligns with their mission to offer top-tier security equipment that empowers dealers to grow their businesses. Dealers can place orders now at shop.ssandsi.com or by reaching out to their account representative.

SS&Si Dealer Network is a trusted national distributor of security and low-voltage products, dedicated to supporting security professionals with top brands, expert resources, and customer support.

For additional information, please contact Tyler Martin, SS&Si Dealer Network marketing & communications manager, at tylerm@ssandsi.com or 1-866-364-0030 x 27

Honeywell Announces Creation of Three Separate Companies

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Honeywell has announced the completion of a comprehensive business portfolio evaluation launched a year ago by Chairman and CEO Vimal Kapur and intends to pursue a full separation of Automation and Aerospace Technologies.

The planned separation, coupled with the previously announced plan to spin Advanced Materials, will result in three publicly listed companies with distinct strategies and growth drivers. The separation is intended to be completed in the second half of 2026 and in a manner that is tax-free to Honeywell shareholders.

Honeywell“The formation of three independent, industry-leading companies builds on the powerful foundation we have created, positioning each to pursue tailored growth strategies, and unlock significant value for shareholders and customers,” Kapur said. “Our simplification of Honeywell has rapidly advanced over the past year, and we will continue to shape our portfolio to create further shareholder value. We have a rich pipeline of strategic bolt-on acquisition targets, and we plan to continue deploying capital to further enhance each business as we prepare them to become leading, independent public companies.”

The planned separations of Automation, Aerospace and Advanced Materials will create value for all stakeholders as each will benefit from:

  • Simplified strategic focus;
  • Greater financial flexibility to pursue distinct organic growth opportunities throughout investment cycles;
  • Improved ability to tailor capital allocation priorities in alignment with strategic focus;
  • Focused boards of directors and management teams with deep domain expertise; and
  • Distinct investment profiles that position each company to unlock greater long-term value for shareholders.

Following the completion of the announced transactions, Honeywell intends to be a global leader of the industrial world’s transition from automation to autonomy, with a comprehensive portfolio of technologies, solutions, and software to drive customers’ productivity, according to the company.

Since December 2023, Honeywell has announced a number of strategic actions to drive organic growth and simplify its portfolio, including approximately $9 billion of accretive acquisitions, such as the Access Solutions business from Carrier Global, which was completed in June 2024.

Honeywell Automation will maintain global scale, with 2024 revenue of $18 billion. Honeywell Automation will connect assets, people and processes to power digital transformation, building on decades-long technology leadership positions, deep domain experience, and a vast installed base to serve a variety of high-growth verticals.

“Building on decades of innovation as its heritage, Honeywell Automation will create the buildings and industrial infrastructure of the future, leveraging process technology, software, and AI-enabled, autonomous solutions to drive the next generation of productivity, sustainability and safety for our customers,” Kapur stated. “As a standalone company with a simplified operating structure and enhanced focus, Honeywell Automation will be better able to capitalize on the global megatrends underpinning its business, from energy security and sustainability to digitalization and artificial intelligence.”

In November, investor group Elliott Investment Management, which has a $5 billion investment in Honeywell, sent a letter to its board of directors calling for the company to simplify its conglomerate structure, recommending that Automation and Aerospace be separate entities and be better positioned to thrive operationally.

Honeywell remains on pace to exceed its commitment to deploy at least $25 billion toward high-return capital expenditures, dividends, opportunistic share purchases and accretive acquisitions through 2025. The company intends to continue its portfolio transformation efforts during the separation planning process to enhance the value proposition of each business.

“With today’s action, Honeywell will be separating its Automation and Aerospace businesses into two market-leading enterprises poised for sustained growth and value creation,” noted Elliott Partner Marc Steinberg and Managing Partner Jesse Cohn. “The enhanced focus, alignment, and strategic agility enabled by this separation will allow Honeywell to realize the opportunity for operational improvement and valuation upside. We look forward to continuing to support Vimal and the management team as they execute on the separation and deliver significant long-term value to Honeywell’s shareholders.”

Johnson Controls Announces Joakim Weidemanis as Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

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Johnson Controls, a global provider of smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Joakim Weidemanis as chief executive officer (CEO), effective March 12, 2025.

Weidemanis succeeds George R. Oliver following a thorough succession planning process. Oliver, who led the company’s successful transformation into a pure-play building solutions provider, will continue to serve as non-executive chairman of the board until July 31, 2025.

Johnson ControlsAt that time, he will be succeeded as chairman by Mark P. Vergnano, who has served on the Johnson Controls Board since 2016. Oliver will remain as an advisor to the company until Dec. 31, 2025, to provide ongoing support and ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Weidemanis is a seasoned operator with a successful track record in leading global technology-driven businesses and delivering profitable growth. He held several executive leadership roles over his 13-year career at Danaher Corp., providing him with extensive experience scaling global companies from a foundation of customer orientation, innovation and efficiency. He most recently served as executive vice president, diagnostics and China at Danaher, where he was responsible for operational leadership of an approximately $15 billion group across eight global technology businesses. Through acquisitions and organic growth, the revenue of Danaher’s diagnostics business grew significantly over a four-year period during his leadership.

Earlier in his career, he held executive positions of increasing operational responsibility at Mettler Toledo and ABB. Weidemanis has lived and worked in the United States, Europe and Asia over the course of his approximately 30-year career.

“The board identified Joakim as uniquely suited to lead Johnson Controls during its next chapter of growth as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings,” said Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board. “Joakim’s approach to leading service-oriented businesses aligns well with both the Johnson Controls approach and our end-to-end operating model. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated remarkable ability as an operator of large global businesses, scaling both organically and inorganically, and is adept in shaping product portfolios and leveraging technology to deliver best-in-class financial performance.”

Tinggren continued, “As we have made substantial progress in our transformation, George has set the stage for Johnson Controls to capitalize on the opportunities ahead. On behalf of the Johnson Controls Board, we thank him for his remarkable leadership over the last eight years.

“As I come to know Johnson Controls, I am energized by its mission-driven culture and strong 140-year legacy of developing market-leading technology and solutions that enable customers to manage their facilities in a smarter, more sustainable and more productive way,” Weidemanis stated. “I am deeply passionate about leading global technology-driven businesses that help customers advance their goals and make a meaningful, positive impact on society. I look forward to leveraging my experience and the foundation George and the team have built to deliver on the company’s full potential for customers, employees and shareholders.”

“Joakim is the ideal person to lead Johnson Controls as CEO,” Oliver added. “The efforts we have made over the past eight years have transformed Johnson Controls into a simpler, more profitable and faster growing company better able to deliver on our financial and operational objectives. As we build on the Johnson Controls momentum from fiscal 2024, I look forward to working with Joakim and the team to ensure a smooth leadership transition and a promising future for Johnson Controls.”

New York Fire Alarm Association (nyFAA) Celebrates Two Decades of Fire & Life Safety Excellence

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SimpliSafe® Achieves Alarm Validation Scoring Standard (AVS-01) UL-Listed Certification

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Congratulations to TMA member SimpliSafe® on the achievement of its UL-listing for the ANSI/TMA Alarm Validation Scoring Standard (AVS-01).

AVS-01 TMA-AVS-01 provides a standardized method of creating an alarm scoring or classification metric for unauthorized human activity detected by alarm systems. An alarm score results in a repeatable metric that estimates the validity or potential threat level of a burglar alarm activation using historical and real-time data. The score will assist law enforcement with resource allocation and Call for Service prioritization.

SimpliSafe is the third TMA member to achieve the certification. See the full list HERE

Read the full story on https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/simplisafe-achieves-alarm-validation-scoring-standard-avs-01-certification-to-enhance-alarm-information-for-first-responders-and-improve-emergency-outcomes-302366702.html?tc=eml_cleartime

Speakers Sought for 2025 TMAs Virtual Mid-Year Meeting

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The agenda for the 2025 TMA Virtual Mid-Year Meeting (April 29–May 1, 2024) is under development and session proposals are sought on the industry’s most pressing topics. This 3-day event will focus on leadership and industry trends; technology and innovation; and operations and best practices, with sessions such as:
• Inspiring Leadership in a Changing World
• NextGen Leadership Training
• The Impact of Private Equity on the Monitoring Industry
• Practical Examples of AI in the Monitoring Center
• Emerging Technologies: Drones, Robotics, and Body Cameras
• Cybersecurity Best Practices for Monitoring Centers
• Monitoring Center Quality Assurance and Video Integration Processes
• Improving Efficiencies in Alarm and Video Processing
• Employee Engagement and Retention

If you have expertise or innovative ideas to contribute, we encourage you to submit a proposal. Together, let’s provide actionable insights and practical solutions for monitoring professionals.

For submission details and additional information, go to https://tma.us/education/speakers-smes/call-for-speakers/

Bish to Represent TMA on the SIAC Board of Directors

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Industry veteran and longtime member of The Monitoring Association (TMA) George Bish has been appointed to represent TMA on the SIAC Board of Directors.

“George brings decades of experience and technical expertise to this position,” said Tim Creenan, SIAC Board Chairman. “We deeply appreciate his willingness to add this additional responsibility to his already busy schedule.”

George is currently the Director of Licensing and Compliance at Ring LLC, which Amazon owns.

George replaces industry leader and founding board member Bob Bonifas as a TMA board member. Bob is the founder of Alarm Detection Systems and has been a thought leader in our industry.

“Bob could always be counted on to see the big picture, look into the future and develop sound plans for leadership as our industry has changed and grown over the years,” said Creenan. “We want to thank him for his decades of service to SIAC and our industry.”

“This is a critical time for our industry as we face ever–changing technology,” said Creenan. “SIAC’s role of being the single voice for our industry on alarm regulations and management is more important than ever and we appreciate TMA’s support for this important mission.”

Make National Security Technician Day Special for Technicians, Jan. 23rd!

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TMA joins with security industry associations ESA and SIA to celebrate National Security Technician Day on January 23rd each year. The special day serves as a reminder to recognize the commitment and expertise of security technicians—the heroes fortifying our safety. These individuals, often working behind the scenes, are instrumental in ensuring the functionality, reliability, and effectiveness of security systems that safeguard our communities, businesses, and homes. 

Their dedication goes beyond the technical; it embodies a commitment to our safety. From installing and maintaining security systems to troubleshooting and ensuring operational efficiency, these technicians are integral. Here we explore some ideas to make the day extra special. 

Ideas to Make National Security Technician Day Special for Technicians

1. Recognition and Appreciation:

Encourage businesses and communities to publicly acknowledge and thank security technicians for their invaluable contributions, even a social media shoutout is meaningful. Perhaps distribute thank-you notes or cards expressing appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

2. Professional Development Opportunities:

Organize workshops or seminars to enhance their skills or update their knowledge on the latest security technologies. Offer specialized training opportunities to further their expertise in specific areas. 

3. Security Technician of the Year Awards:

Encourage nominations and entries for the prestigious Security Technician of the Year Awards. Recognizing exemplary skills and dedication, this initiative celebrates outstanding achievements in the field and boosts morale among technicians. It’s an opportunity to honor their contributions and showcase their expertise within the industry. 

4. Celebratory Gatherings:

Host a luncheon or dinner where technicians can relax, socialize, and feel appreciated for their efforts. You can arrange team-building exercises or recreational activities to foster camaraderie among technicians and their colleagues.

5. Gifts and Tokens of Appreciation:

Provide personalized gift baskets containing tokens of appreciation. Present certificates of recognition or achievement to highlight their contributions to the safety of the community. 

6. Honoring Our Heroes 

National Security Technician Day serves as a reminder to extend gratitude, recognition, and support to these indispensable professionals whose commitment safeguards our well-being. By celebrating and honoring security technicians, we affirm their vital role in upholding safety and security across our communities.