ALCEA - Experts & Thought Leaders

ALCEA will showcase a diverse lineup of critical infrastructure access management solutions in booth 1642 at the Global Security Exchange, to be held September 23-25 at the Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando.  The company plans to focus attention on its entire resettable line of keyless products. Additionally, other solutions in the booth will include the ABLOY Super Weather Proof Padlock; ALWIN software integration to ABLOY PROTEC2 CLIQ™ CWM remote access control software; KEYper Key Access Management; and will also demonstrate Neenah Foundry’s new InfraLOCK Release which incorporates ABLOY® high security locks. New InfraLOCK Release “I’ve been looking forward to GSX and our team is very excited to see everyone with the complete portfolio of products we will have in our booth,” said Jerry Burhans, manager of ALCEA. Formerly known as ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions – Critical Infrastructure, ALCEA represents ABLOY technologies in North America. “One of the best reasons to visit our booth and look at these products is the greater efficiency they provide to manage your critical infrastructure security efforts. From our high-security mechanical resettable and weatherproof padlocks to CLIQ, you can protect your access points and properties while reducing or eliminating the need for keys. And with the new InfraLOCK Release, we are introducing a smarter and stronger security method to better protect our nation’s underground infrastructure.” US-SRB50 resettable padlock  US-SRB50 resettable padlock is a hybrid brass padlock with multiple shackle material options ALCEA will have four keyless resettable padlocks in the booth at GSX, ranging from a brass option to several heavy-duty models including steel and shackless steel, another with a dust cover, and weatherproof devices. All are ideal solutions to secure access points such as substations, security gates, railroad and transportation signal equipment and cabinets, toolboxes, utility metres, and cell tower sites. The US-SRB50 resettable padlock is a combination brass padlock with multiple shackle material options. Easy to reset, it offers four dials with 10,000 possible combinations. A shackle seal also prevents water intrusion, making it a solid choice for utilities, telecom towers and data centres, and transportation and logistics firms. US-SR60 and US-SR400 padlocks The US-SR60 is an extra heavy-duty resettable combination steel padlock with a numbers dial which provides a hardened steel lock case that resists damage to its surface. This strong solution features quality e-coating and internal corrosion components, and an anti-cut molybdenum shackle. The four-dial system also has 10,000 possible combinations and is easily resettable. The US-SR400 is a heavy-duty shackless padlock that adds flexibility and accessibility to the operation. Utilising a solid steel body with US26D plating, they can combine it with popular hasp types to secure sliding and swinging door security. ABLOY Super Weather Proof Padlock  SWP padlocks include both mechanical and electromechanical models in a range of sizes The US-SR60WJR heavy-duty weatherproof resettable padlock offers unique weather protection and an anti-dust cover solution. The patented dust cover and anti-cut molybdenum shackle means this padlock won’t fail to protect your equipment, no matter how harsh the environment or what type of weather it is subjected to.  The ABLOY Super Weather Proof Padlock (SWP) offers the ultimate in protection. Security is guaranteed to ensure operation in all conditions and after regular exposure to extreme weather. SWP padlocks include both mechanical and electromechanical models in a range of sizes, which can be combined in the same locking system. ABLOY PL430 high-security lock  ABLOY PROTEC2 CLIQ is an electromechanical access control solution that helps utilities comply with NERC CIP security guidelines and can produce audit trail reports easily. It gives administrators control of all keys all of the time, and enables them to grant or revoke access to personnel and contractors at remote locations with an app. InfraLOCK Release is a drop-in replacement that prevents a manhole lid from dislodging during an explosive event, safely releasing pressure while securing underground infrastructure. Versatile for use ranging from water mains and sewer systems to substructures and other underground utilities, it integrates the weather-resistant ABLOY PL430 high-security lock to limit access control. Neenah Foundry has incorporated these specialty locks manufactured by ABLOY since 2021.

Bart Bednar has joined ALCEA as an ALWIN Sales Engineer for North America. With more than 26 years of engineering and integration experience, he is based in Irving, Texas, and reports directly to Michael Woody, the company’s Technical Service and Customer Success Manager. ALCEA offers a wide range of critical infrastructure security solutions and access management systems as the internal systems integrator partner of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions. In 2023, the company introduced ALWIN security management software to customers in the United States. The robust software platform combines ASSA ABLOY security locks, ABLOYÒ PROTEC 2 padlocks and cylinders, and CLIQ access software with video management and intrusion detection to bring real-time visibility and access management to critical infrastructure customers. Prior roles of Bednar  That’s the world Bednar has experience in prior to joining ALCEA. During the first 15 years of his career, while living in Minneapolis, Denver, Houston and Freehold, N.J, he was a field systems integrator at Checkpoint Security Systems, Inc. He assisted in the installation, service and project management of BA Security, Fire Alarm and Access Control, along with analog and IP cameras at retail giants like Apple/Uniqlo, Best Buy, Kohls, Target and many others. Bednar set and certified integrators and OPTEX’s six regional sales managers for a unique client base He served the last 11 years as a Field Application Manager at OPTEX America, a world-pioneering manufacturer of high-performance sensing technologies that include indoor and outdoor high-security applications. Throughout the U.S. and Canada, Bednar developed and certified integrators and OPTEX’s six regional sales managers for a unique client base. ALWIN and CLIQ access software systems Bednar supported over 50 product lines and worked with high-profile customers such as Amazon Web Services/Google, Con Edison and Duke Energy, as well as a handful of the most wealthiest people in the world with devices at their homes.  “I was also involved with the installations at every one of the Apple retail stores in Manhattan, and worked with various transportation agencies including Bay Area Rail Transit (BART) in the Bay area of northern California, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in the boroughs of New York City, and with the Chicago Transit Authority.” In his new position, Bednar is working with ALCEA sales personnel to promote and support the ALWIN and CLIQ access software systems. Introduce ALWIN to North America “My goal is to help increase sales and introduce ALWIN to North America. I want it to be as successful here as it is in France,” he remarked. ALWIN currently integrates or interfaces with over 100 pioneering technology manufacturers of access devices, readers and video systems. “ALWIN,” he continued, “is a different type of technology, but in the same market I have experience with the last few years in the area of critical infrastructure.” In his free time, Bednar enjoys many activities. He was a ski instructor in Colorado when he met his wife, Diane, and they enjoy traveling to Europe with friends. A motorcyclist, he is a huge fan of the Green Bay Packers and New York Yankees and loves to spend time with “Jersey”, their three-year-old toy golden doodle who accompanies him on motorcycle rides around Texas.

The Transportation Services and Mobility department for the city of Grand Prairie, Texas recently completed a substantial project to replace the locks on their Intelligent Traffic Cabinets with a better and more secure choice. Turns out what they needed was only a few miles away with ALCEA’s Traffic Cabinet Locking Solution powered by ABLOY technology. ALCEA is the brand formerly known as ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions - Critical Infrastructure. The ALCEA Traffic Cabinet Locking Solution has gained traction with transportation infrastructure departments in major cities across the United States. It was developed by Jerry Burhans, managing director for North America, and Michael Woody, manager of the ALCEA Competence Centre in Irving, which shares a border with Grand Prairie. Now this access management solution is beginning to impact medium-sized communities like them. Proactive cybersecurity measures Perez said this skill project will save all city signal cabinets from tampering and unauthorised key Raul Perez, a 13-year transportation industry veteran who has served as Grand Prairie’s ITS Specialist for 2-1/2 years, said this installation project will protect all city signal cabinets from tampering and unauthorised access. Involving 240 smart locks, 210 high-security mechanical locks and padlocks on all city traffic cabinets plus 10 message boards, 191 mechanical locks for all school flashing sign cabinets, and 20 Bluetooth keys is in step with the city’s policy of adopting proactive cybersecurity measures. “Having control over who has access and when to our traffic cabinets was a major driver for this project,” he acknowledged. “We have not had people trying to force their entry into our cabinets, but we did have several occasions where contractors were gaining access to them without permission or notice. ALCEA was the clear choice for our smart lock needs, offering a solution that aligns with our requirements.” Substantial growth and the need to safeguard assets Grand Prairie has a long history associated with technology. Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it is the sixteenth largest city in Texas with a population of more than 207,000 people. During World War I and since, it began an association with the defence and aviation industries and served as an aircraft production site.  The city sits 12 miles west of downtown Dallas and is only 10 minutes south of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. With rail lines and major interstates 20 and 30 running through it, Grand Prairie has become a well-established distribution centre. The majority of the Great Southwest Industrial District’s approximately 80 million square-feet of space is in the city. State’s transportation infrastructure Grand Prairie’s growth resembles the rest of Texas, the largest of the 48 continuous states Combine major attractions like the Lone Star Park horse racetrack and Epic Waters, one of the largest indoor waterparks in Texas, and the city’s 81 square miles of road experience heavy traffic activity all day long. Grand Prairie’s growth resembles the rest of Texas, the largest of the 48 continuous states. After an unprecedented boom, the U.S. Census Bureau declared it is now home to more than 30 million residents following a 43% increase from 2020 to 2022. That development in part led to the Texas Department of Transportation announcing a $142 billion investment in the state’s transportation infrastructure last August as part of a 10-year state roadways plan. About the same time the announcement was made is when the city of Grand Prairie began researching options for a separately funded project to increase cybersecurity preparedness. Flexibility of a Hybrid Locking Solution “I started looking for smart locks and found ALCEA’s mechanical lock with a high security key during an online search. I was intrigued so I contacted them, inquired about their product and arranged a visit to their office for a presentation,” said Perez, who also evaluated the offerings of three other vendors. “It was then I learned about the capability of unlocking both the electronic and mechanical locks – including padlocks – and the versatility of their keys. I was very impressed by the user-friendly design of their Bluetooth smart key,” he said in reference to the ABLOY PROTEC2 CLIQÔ system. Mechanical and electromechanical locks Remote access control system mixes the parts of robotic and electromechanical locks The remote access management system combines the best characteristics of mechanical and electromechanical locks. After the initial meeting with ALCEA, Perez said he was convinced of the value of this hybrid solution but had to secure buy-in from his supervisor and department director. “Working with the ALCEA team, we tailored a price quote aimed at convincing our department director to allocate funds for this investment. The initiative was successfully integrated into our budget by the end of 2023, and the purchase order was placed in mid-January.” Demonstrated by the ALCEA team The city of Grand Prairie chose ALCEA for several key reasons. “Their product offered the advantage of securing all our enclosures with a single key, with efficiency and convenience,” said Perez. “The versatility of giving us the capability to integrate both mechanical and electronic locks, as well as padlocks, contributed to a more cost effective final solution. The user-friendly key system, coupled with the security features, ensures ease of use without compromising safety." “The expertise, customer service, and professionalism demonstrated by the ALCEA team added confidence in our decision-making process,” added Perez. “Being a local company, they are able to provide localised support.” Common problems with #2 keys protecting roadside equipment The mechanical lock series that was installed contains ABLOY’s unique high-security cylinder The mechanical lock series that was installed contains ABLOY’s unique high-security cylinder. The electromechanical locks support electronic access control, key tracking, and audit trails with CLIQ Web Manager software. Perez says it instantly solves a problem that existed with their old system. “The challenges we encountered before are widespread in the transportation industry. Many traffic enclosures are accessible with a #2 key, which is impossible to track and makes unauthorised access a potential risk,” he explained. “Anyone can buy that type of key for a couple of dollars. This lack of accountability is a significant security concern, particularly with the increasing prevalence of cyber threats targeting government agencies.” Open cabinet locks and padlocks Perez says the ALCEA solution gives Grand Prairie continuity for its program. “Given the critical nature of our infrastructure and the investment in our high-tech signal control devices, protecting our assets is a top priority,” he acknowledged. “We now have versatility where the same key will open cabinet locks and padlocks, and it can be updated by using the CLIQ app, which is convenient for everyone on our team. Technicians and supervisors wiil be using most of the keys, and the others are for the contractors who need access to the traffic cabinets on an occasional basis.”

An attention-grabbing exhibit at GSX 2024 in Orlando involved a robot dog that could open a door.  Boston Dynamics robot dog ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the robotics demonstration, featuring the Boston Dynamics robot dog that could open a door using either an HID credential or a mechanical grip. This innovation represents a shift toward more autonomous security solutions and is suitable for environments where human access may be limited. ASSA ABLOY impressed attendees with the Boston Dynamics robot dog Operational efficiency Eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology It was one of many eye-catching exhibits at the GSX in Orlando, showcasing the future of security technology, and offering practical solutions to the industry's challenges.  For security professionals, the advancements presented opportunities to enhance operational efficiency and to maintain a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving market.  Control ID face identification Alongside their robot demonstration, ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification.  Access Controller, providing advanced facial recognition access control. From identity management to AI-driven surveillance systems, GSX 2024 offered a glimpse into the tools that can streamline processes, increase security, and reduce costs. Here are some other highlights. ASSA ABLOY also highlighted the Control ID Face Identification More integration with critical infrastructure  A major theme at GSX 2024 was the increasing integration of security solutions with critical infrastructure. ALCEA (formerly ASSA ABLOY Critical Infrastructure) is an example. Their globalised software solution ALWIN is designed for managing access control, visitor management, and other security factors across multiple locations. ALCEA's approach involves not only internal collaborations within ASSA ABLOY but also partnerships with external organisations. An example of innovation is the Neenah Foundry lockable manhole cover, blending safety and security. Solving identity management challenges  The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies Identity management continues to be a key focus in the security sector, and AMAG Technology addresses this need with its Symmetry Connect product. The solution simplifies onboarding and access request changes while ensuring compliance with policies. For professionals overseeing identity access management, Symmetry Connect provides a streamlined, automated approach, reducing human error and increasing operational efficiency. AMAG also sees a growing demand for efficient visitor management systems, especially in the post-COVID landscape. AMAG’s products cater to the need for enhanced security without overburdening staff.  AI and cloud-based surveillance solutions  Axis Communications highlighted its advancements in AI and cloud-based video management systems with its AXIS Camera Station Edge and Pro products. These solutions can connect seamlessly to cloud systems, providing security professionals with easy access to surveillance data anywhere. With the increasing need for centralised management, Axis’s offerings ensure that security teams can efficiently manage surveillance with minimal infrastructure. Axis also showcased its commitment to AI-driven analytics based on superior video quality. There were also networked audio solutions for public announcements and background music, among other uses. Body-worn cameras for corporate and school uses  Traditionally focused on law enforcement, Axon is now expanding its body-worn cameras and TASER technology into corporate and school security environments. Their Axon Body Workforce camera is a practical solution for protecting frontline workers in high-risk environments.  Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness Axon also introduced drone-based solutions for real-time aerial awareness, a significant benefit for large campuses or remote locations. As more industries adopt corporate surveillance systems, Axon’s offerings provide flexible, scalable solutions that address the need for real-time, actionable intelligence.  Cloud-based access for smart buildings  Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options Brivo showcased how cloud technology is revolutionising access control by offering systems that integrate seamlessly with other smart building platforms. Their open API approach enables collaboration with IT teams, bridging the gap between physical security and IT management. Brivo’s new partnership with Comcast Smart Solutions illustrates how large enterprises can implement advanced solutions, including access control while maintaining flexibility. For professionals managing complex building environments, Brivo’s native cloud systems and flexible credentials offer practical, future-proof security options.  AI-powered multi-sensor camera  Hanwha focused on an AI-powered multi-sensor camera, equipped with an NVIDIA processor capable of running complex analytics. In addition, Hanwha’s new AI camera technology can process multiple video streams simultaneously, either stream from its sensors or outside cameras, enabling better tracking of objects in complex environments. Their eight-channel AI Box, which converts legacy cameras into AI-enabled devices, is an attractive solution for professionals seeking to upgrade existing systems without the need for complete overhauls. For security teams looking to enhance situational awareness, Hanwha’s AI-based offerings provide advanced, scalable solutions.  Workflow management and hybrid cloud security  Genetec continued the theme of integrated solutions with their Operations Centre module for Security Centre, which consolidates work management into a single platform. Built on lean management principles, this system simplifies workflow for security professionals, promoting real-time collaboration across mobile and web platforms. As the industry shifts from on-premises systems to hybrid cloud solutions, Genetec’s products provide seamless transitions for organisations. Their new SaaS Security Centre also allows for natural language video searches in multiple languages, making it easier for global teams to manage operations across locations.  Simplifying remote surveillance  The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency is demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service Eagle Eye Networks showcased their continued international expansion, highlighting a new data centre opening in Saudi Arabia and new hiring initiatives in Australia and Europe. Their “Eagle Eye Anywhere” solar-powered camera system exemplifies the move towards flexible, easy-to-install solutions that can be deployed in remote locations. Integrators benefit from simplified maintenance through remote management, reducing the need for on-site support and ensuring operational continuity. The company’s focus on scalability and efficiency, as demonstrated by the “Eagle Eye Complete” subscription service, reflects the broader industry’s shift toward managed security services.  Tailored solutions for commercial clients  Everon continues its transition away from its former identity as ADT Commercial. Claiming the status of a competitive commercial integrator, Everon is reinventing itself by offering customised billing and monitoring solutions for a range of industries. Their cloud-based business intelligence platform, which combines video surveillance with data analysis, is aimed at enhancing operational awareness by detecting anomalies such as OSHA violations or retail point-of-sale exceptions. With AI-driven dashboards, clients can customise their security solutions to meet specific needs, reflecting a growing demand for tailored, data-driven security applications.  Innovation through cloud and mobile LenelS2 is part of Honeywell, and they emphasised their investment in cloud and mobile solutions at GSX 2024. Their "Enterprise OnGuard Cloud" platform, launched in June 2024, is a testament to the growing demand for cloud-enabled access control systems. With the addition of NFC-enabled Blue Diamond credentials, LenelS2 is pushing towards smarter, more secure mobile access options. The strategic combination of Lenel’s solutions with Honeywell’s infrastructure offers users enhanced engineering capabilities and global reach. This reflects a broader market trend of integrating mobile devices into physical security protocols.  Bringing AI to everyday security LPR system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying security risks March Networks highlighted their new AI-driven smart search feature, designed to help security teams quickly detect operational anomalies in retail and financial environments. From identifying misplaced cash in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to detecting "jackpotting" attacks on ATMs, their solution highlights the increasing importance of AI in enhancing both security and operational efficiency. Their Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) system, combined with their Searchlight Cloud Analytics, offers a powerful tool for identifying and responding to security risks in real-time, emphasising the practicality of AI in daily security operations.  Driving sustainability in security  Securitas showcased its commitment to sustainability, a growing concern for businesses across all industries. By providing CO2 data for clients and promoting digital tools like mobile credentials, Securitas is leading the charge in creating greener, more sustainable security solutions. Their focus on remote services and occupancy insights offers companies a way to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing security operations. The company’s alignment with science-based targets and circular economy practices signifies the increasing role sustainability will play in the security sector.  Future lies in integration  The GSX 2024 trade show revealed that the future of security lies in intelligent integration, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based management systems. The innovations presented will help security professionals streamline their operations, enhance situational awareness, and future-proof their systems. As these technologies continue to evolve, professionals must stay informed about the latest advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the security marketplace. GSX was a great place to start. At the end of the day at GSX, it wasn’t just the robot dog that was opening doors …. to the future of security systems. {##Poll1727925373 - Of the important factors highlighted at GSX 2024, which do you consider most when adopting new security solutions?##}