TDSi’s EXgarde 4.2 adds full integration with ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio wireless locking technology

Security solutions manufacturer TDSi’s EXgarde PRO 4.2 will shortly be releasing the latest version of its access control software, which will include full integration with ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio wireless locking technology. TDSi’s powerful EXgarde software brings together many elements of physical security in a centralised security portal, enabling the operator to monitor and control physical access whilst incorporating CCTV feeds and emergency alarm triggers. Additionally EXgarde 4.2 also allows an organisation to synchronise its employee database and IT security protocols, via integration with Microsoft Active Directory, with these physical security systems to ensure a fully integrated approach and complete visibility over the assets of the whole business.

EXgarde’s new integration with ASSA ABLOY’s Aperio  locking technology offers a number of distinct benefits for any security operations and installation, including:

• Reduced installation time over a hard-wired system (existing cabling can be used to connect to the IP hub – no RS485 cable is required)
• Only the EXgarde software is required to control all locks within a facility
• Online and real-time interaction with locks from a centralised security control room
• Simple extension of access control across the site at a lower cost per door
• Highly cost effective method of eliminating key control issues and securing low risk doors
• The ability to use Aperio™  devices to trigger other IP connected services via EXgarde 4.2 - such as CCTV recording, lights being activated and heating/ventilation systems being engaged etc

TDSi’s Managing Director, John Davies, commented, “EXgarde 4.2’s integration with Aperio offers a new level of remote lock functionality with a global leader in door opening solutions. Using Aperio alongside TDSi’s core systems allows greater flexibility in remote areas where access control may be more difficult to implement. Working together, the two solutions offer highly precise site activity reporting, centralised alarm management, real-time event and alarm updates, and evacuation reporting – which is vital in the event of an emergency. They also offer an excellent time and attendance reporting solution and door monitoring (forced door and time open) facility that gives a highly accurate view of the overall access situation of any facility. Version 4.2 adds to an already enviable list of attributes from EXgarde including full integration with Microsoft Active Directory along with a number of other physical systems including Milestone’s Enterprise and Corporate video management software and Texecom’s range of alarm systems, as well as TDSi’s own VUgarde2 IP CCTV VMS platform and software.”

TDSi’s EXgarde version 4.2 is a further development of a solution designed to meet the growing convergence of IT and building management systems, as IP connectivity unites traditionally disparate security and IT functions. Convergence brings clear client benefits in terms of information superiority, flexibility, scalability, cheaper implementation using common infrastructure (often financed from shared budgets), and increased control by utilising and sharing resources.

EXgarde 4.2’s central aims are to lower the price point of integration, capture the details of a security event, to alert the security team, and to gather detailed records for compliance and review. In the case of the CCTV integration, users can view live video from any camera within the EXgarde Explorer window, so an incident reported by the access control system or by the triggering of an alarm panel, for example, can immediately be investigated visually.