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

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

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

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.”

Speakers Sought for 2025 TMAs Virtual Mid-Year Meeting

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/

ATN-01 Preliminary Comment Period now open!

The TMA-ATN-01 Active Threat (Detection) Notification Standard DRAFT is now available for a “Preliminary Technical Review.” The purpose of this optional non-ANSI process review is to gather preliminary stakeholder feedback prior to publishing the final draft for the official ANSI public comment period. It allows for meaningful suggestions to be considered for inclusion in the committee’s final draft document used for the ANSI public comment period.

All Industry comments must be submitted no later than December 4th, 2024, 9pm Eastern.

  1. Please download the TMA-ATN-01 Active Threat (Detection) Notification Standard DRAFT (PDF Format).
  2. Submit all comments individually using the online comment form
  3. All comments will be reviewed by the committee and replied to as soon as possible

After the committee has done the final review, the draft standard will go for 60 days through the ANSI Public Comment process.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Bryan Ginn at bginn@tma.us. Thank you.

Elite Interactive Supports Child ID Kit Program

Elite Interactive Solutions announced its involvement with several organizations to promote distribution of child identification kits. Through its long association with FBI-LEEDA, Elite is represented along with the National Child ID Program in partnership with the NFL Alumni Association and Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the Safety Blitz Foundation.

The initiative includes providing at least one million inkless child identification kits, which allow parents to take, store and control their children’s fingerprints/DNA in their own home.

“As a company laser focused on crime prevention, participating in a program predicated on protecting America’s children from harm could not be more in line with what Elite and its remote video guarding solution is all about,” said Aria Kozak, founder and CEO, Elite Interactive Solutions. “We are grateful to FBI-LEEDA for endorsing Elite when asked for a private safety supporter and honored to be among the other prominent and respected organizations represented for this vitally important program.”

According to the National Child ID Program’s (NCIDP) website, up to 1,000 children go missing in the United States every day, yet when its program began less than 2 parents of parents had a copy of their child’s fingerprints to use in case of an emergency. The group’s safety initiative is dedicated to changing these statistics by providing parents and guardians with a tool they can use to help protect their children.

The ID kits allow parents to collect specific information by easily recording the physical characteristics, fingerprints and DNA of their children on identification cards that are then kept at home by the parent or guardian, the announcement states. If ever needed, this ID kit gives authorities vital information to assist their efforts to locate a missing child.

Since its inception in 1997, the NCIDP said it has distributed more than 70 million kits throughout North America. The program has reportedly been recognized by Congress and today works with federal, state and local leaders, coaches, athletes, faith-based organizations, and corporate citizens to increase the safety of children in communities across the country.

Elite Interactive Solutions Launches New Educational Webinar Series

Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, announces the launch of a new educational webinar series. Featuring some of the industry’s foremost subject matter experts and thought leaders, the sessions are designed to inform security practitioners about the latest developments in security technologies and methodologies, crime and loss prevention, vertical market challenges, law enforcement, and more.

The free series kicks off Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. Pacific Time / 2 p.m. Eastern Time with, “How Remote Guarding Crushes Crime.” In addition to preventing crime, the hourlong presentation will cover how the solution profoundly impacts losses, liability and false alarms.

More and more businesses and other organizations are discovering the extensive benefits of remote video guarding systems. Unlike traditional security systems and monitoring center methods, this innovative solution prevents crime in real-time.

By combining proven system design practices, strategically placed surveillance cameras, specially tuned analytics and AI, high-end cybersecurity, skilled command center agents experienced in diffusing threats, and a trusted relationship with law enforcement, remote video guarding is dramatically transforming security across multiple industries.

The session’s panel of leading crime prevention experts will help attendees evaluate how this solution can help them better protect their facilities – including augmenting or replacing security guards.

Participating in the panel-style webinar will be Elite Vice President of Client Success & Security Solutions Scott Blakeman, former law enforcement executive Justin Feffer, an attorney specializing in cybersecurity who sits on Elite’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board, and Trophy Automotive Dealer Group Director of Facilities Myrna Dekker. All are experienced authorities for the topic at hand.

“As with a lot of new technologies and offerings that emerge on the security industry’s radar, there are many misperceptions, misrepresentations, false assumptions and even fear of the unknown surrounding remote video monitoring — particularly as it pertains to remote guarding and crime prevention,” says Blakeman. “With keen insights from an experienced provider rep, law enforcement official and end user, our intent is to plainly define the solution and its power to truly revolutionize security and safety.”

Those in attendance will have their eyes and minds opened to how advances in AI, video analytics, cybersecurity and other leading-edge technologies are being calibrated, integrated and deployed to deliver real-world results that proactively stop rather than merely react to crime. Attendees will also come to understand the key characteristics that encompass a true remote guarding solution, as opposed to more general video surveillance or alarm monitoring.

By its conclusion, attendees will walk away knowing how a technology-centric solution like remote guarding can make their organization’s security program more effective and efficient, and with a high return on investment (ROI). This webinar is essential for anyone wanting to know more about the heretofore unattainable benefits to be gained through properly executed remote video guarding.

Evolon and UCC Partner to Deliver Proactive Video Monitoring Solutions

Evolon Technology, a leader in proactive AI-driven security solutions, and United Central Control (UCC) and COPS Monitoring (COPS), premier providers of professional video monitoring, have announced a partnership to transform the proactive video monitoring market.

The companies will co-sell Evolon Insites Proactive Monitoring to oQer a flexible suite of commercial video monitoring services. These services provide businesses and commercial
enterprises with complete peace of mind, after-hours protection, and the ability to selfmonitor their properties by engaging professional monitoring services on demand. By combining Evolon’s advanced technology with UCC and COPS dedicated AlarmWatch expert video monitoring services, businesses can now access comprehensive, proactive video monitoring solutions that enhance security while reducing operational costs.

With Evolon’s cutting-edge AI and cloud-based analytics, false alarms are filtered out precisely, alleviating one of the biggest challenges for video monitoring companies. This partnership allows AlarmWatch operators to focus on real threats, improving response times and deterring crime more eQectively.

The collaboration also brings innovative, tiered services to the market:

  1. Professional Video Monitoring – Provides after-hours protection with simplified pricing, giving businesses complete peace of mind at a predictable monthly rate.
  2. MIY (Monitor it Yourself)—Designed for small businesses, this option gives owners complete control over monitoring their premises through an intuitive mobile app,
    empowering them to manage security on their terms.
  3. SOS (On-Demand Monitoring) – OQers flexible, on-demand support where business owners can manage their security and call in professional monitoring only when
    necessary to dispatch an emergency response.

All the tiered services oQer an intuitive user experience with a smartphone app that includes live video viewing, event recording, visibility to alarms, and emergency dispatch.
An AI copilot enables rapid and precise searches through video content, allowing users to find a specific recorded video, such as a car by make, model, and color or loitering
incidents.

“Our all-inclusive packages provide businesses with everything they need in one seamless solution,” said Tom Galvin, CEO of Evolon. “From an intuitive mobile app, AI-powered
security copilot, and cloud event storage to powerful forensic search and after-hours protection with professional operators. We oQer businesses a fully integrated security
solution without extra charges or complexity.”“Our partnership with AlarmWatch enables businesses of all sizes to access reliable and cost-eQective protection,” Tom continued. “Together, we’re enabling channel partners to oQer more value to their clients while bringing proactive video monitoring to the forefront.”

“We’re pleased to partner with Evolon on the Insites program,” said Teresa Gonzalez, President, UCC, which operates the UL, FM and TMA 5-Diamond certified centers that support professional video monitoring services through the dedicated AlarmWatch team.

“We’ve adopted the Evolon AI technology in our central stations and have been impressed with Evolon’s team, solution, and overall enthusiasm to make video monitoring easier and
more accessible to small and large businesses.”

Evolon Insites is now available through Evolon, United Central Control, and COPS Monitoring.

PureTech Systems Announces the Release of PureActiv® Version 16

PureTech Systems Inc., a leader in geospatial AI-boosted video analytics for wide-area perimeter and border security, is proud to announce the release of PureActiv® Version 16. This new version introduces advanced features aimed at providing nuisance alarm elimination, and autonomous perimeter detection, classification, tracking, alerting, and deterrence—designed to address the evolving security needs of critical infrastructure.

PureActiv® Version 16 leverages PureTech’s patented geospatial AI-boosted technology, delivering accuracy in detecting and classifying potential threats with near-zero nuisance alarms. One of the new capabilities in Version 16 includes enhanced machine learning (ML) models that significantly improve classification accuracy, allowing for precise differentiation between real access control events and faulty door switches/locks.
Key features include:

  • Enhanced ML Models: Improved classification accuracy, ensuring real access control events are confirmed while nuisance alarms are automatically rejected.
  • PTZ Camera Tracking of Specific Intruders: Intelligent tracking of specific intruders with Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras for real-time situational awareness and response.
  • Access Control Real and Nuisance alarm differentiation plus auto-clearing.
  • Integrated Air and Ground Intrusion Detection: Integration of ground and counter-drone detection into a single operating picture, providing protection across land, maritime domain and air.

“We are excited to release PureActiv® Version 16 as the next step in autonomous perimeter security,” said Larry Bowe, CEO of PureTech Systems Inc. “With enhanced machine learning models, advanced PTZ camera tracking, and integrated detection capabilities, PureActiv® continues to set the standard for protecting borders and critical infrastructures.”

“This new release enables new autonomous capabilities that go beyond conventional measures, providing operational advantages and seamlessly blending with other integrated technology systems,” says Chris Sincock, VP of Critical Infrastructure.

For more information on PureActiv® Version 16 and its new security capabilities, visit www.puretechsystems.com or contact us at 602-424-9842.

Resideo Announces CEO Succession Plan and New Chairman of the Board

Resideo Technologies, Inc. announced that Jay Geldmacher, President and Chief Executive Officer, has informed the Board of his intention to retire from his executive and Board roles in 2025. Mr. Geldmacher will continue to serve as President and CEO until his successor is named, at which time he will also retire from the Board and become a senior advisor to the company to facilitate a smooth transition.

Today’s announcement is part of the company’s active succession planning process. The Board has engaged a nationally recognized executive search firm to assist in the process of identifying and evaluating qualified candidates.

“It has been my privilege to be a part of Resideo, and I look forward to continuing to serve the company and its stakeholders until my successor is named. I am proud of the company’s achievements, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Resideo team,” said Jay Geldmacher. “Over the past four years, we have refocused our product portfolio, substantially improved the cash flow and financial profile of the company, made two transformational acquisitions, entered new markets, and accelerated our new product introduction cadence. All of this has created a foundation for future revenue and earnings growth.”

“As a market leader, I believe Resideo is well positioned to capitalize on its profitable growth opportunities and generate durable free cash flow in the future. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition to the next CEO as Resideo prepares to embark on its exciting next chapter.”

“On behalf of the entire Board, we wish to extend our sincerest gratitude to Jay for over four years of devoted service to Resideo,” said Andrew C. Teich, incoming Chairman of Resideo’s Board of Directors. “Jay’s collaborative partnership in the boardroom and strong leadership in driving structural improvements to the company’s operations leave Resideo far better positioned to achieve long-term profitable growth.”

“The Board remains fully confident in the company’s strategy as well as its senior leadership team. Through our ongoing succession planning, the Board is committed to appointing a new CEO who will continue to drive our ambitious vision forward. We greatly appreciate Jay’s support in ensuring a smooth transition.”

Chairman of the Board Change

Resideo also announced that Board member and current Vice Chair, Andrew C. Teich, has been named as Chairman of the Board, succeeding Roger B. Fradin, who has stepped down from the Board after having served as Chairman of the Board since 2018. Given his long history with the company, Mr. Fradin will continue to advise Resideo in a consulting capacity, leveraging his extensive and relevant industry and operational experience.

“Andy is a strong leader who has been an incredibly valuable voice on the Board since the company’s launch in 2018,” said Mr. Fradin. “Drawing on his significant experience, Andy is the ideal person to assume the Chair role and continue to work closely with other members of the Board in connection with our CEO succession process that was announced today.”

“Resideo has benefited greatly from Roger’s deep expertise, guidance, and commitment to the company and its stakeholders,” said Mr. Teich. “His leadership has played a key role in the company’s transformation process and has set the company up for success in the future. On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I want to thank Roger for his tremendous efforts and look forward to continuing to work with him in his consulting capacity.”

Mr. Teich previously served as Resideo’s Lead Independent Director from 2019 through June 2023 and currently serves as the Chair of the Innovation and Technology Committee and as a member of the Nominating and Governance and Compensation and Human Capital Management Committees.

Prior to joining Resideo’s Board, Mr. Teich served as President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of FLIR Systems from 2013 to 2017. Mr. Teich has served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sensata Technologies, a publicly traded global industrial technology company, since July 2019.

As appeared in SecurityInfoWatch.com, Nov. 9, 2024