AtlasIED - Experts & Thought Leaders

The Torrance Unified School District is a cornerstone of the Torrance community, dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college, career, and life. Serving a diverse student population, Torrance USD delivers a comprehensive and enriching educational experience from kindergarten through high school. The school district comprises 17 elementary, eight middle, and five high schools, one continuation high school, and one alternative high school.  Vendor solutions Torrance USD had a mashup of different technologies and vendor solutions across its schools Like many school districts, Torrance USD had a mashup of different technologies and vendor solutions across its schools regarding the ability to broadcast announcements and alerts. Each school had separate systems for bells, clocks, and loudspeakers.  There was no central management of these systems, and the school district couldn't create pre-recorded messages for emergencies. Many system components were also end-of-life, and maintaining everything was cumbersome at best. Focusing on consolidation for reliability and consistency Torrance USD began planning district-wide communication improvements in 2020, with the overarching goal of deploying one uniform system through all 32 campuses, with one dashboard to manage communications. The school district achieved its goal by deploying Cisco Call Manager coupled with Singlewire’s InformaCast communications software and hundreds of IPX endpoints from AtlasIED. Vetted integration technology partners like Cisco, Singlewire, and AtlasIED ensure that interoperability, reliability, and usability have all been verified and validated through extensive testing. Surveillance cameras for emergency alerting Torrance USD began planning district-wide communication improvements in 2020 “This project was part of a larger strategic plan to secure each campus — improve perimeter security, add surveillance cameras, allow for emergency alerting, consolidate the speaker systems, and standardise the bells,” said Gil Mara, Chief EdTech and Information Services Officer at Torrance USD. “For example, when you went from one campus to another, campuses had different bell sequences for scenarios like lockdowns. So, there was no consistency of the alerting mechanisms, and we wanted to ensure it was consistent across all the schools.” Digital and physical security of K-12 schools District staff contacted Nilkanth Radadia, Senior Account Manager at NIC Partners, to design the desired district-wide communications solution. NIC Partners has over two decades of experience enhancing the digital and physical security of K-12 schools and was well-suited to take on a project of Torrance USD’s scale. Focusing on what’s most important “Many stakeholders were involved in this project,” said Radadia. ”Given the project’s scope and requirements, there were a lot of conversations beforehand to get the district comfortable with understanding how the system would work." "Some key elements were customisability, two-way talk, multicolour visual message capabilities, and ADA compliance for the visual and hearing impaired. When AtlasIED came out with their full LCD screen speaker, that was a game changer.” Feature set and industrial design NIC Partners installed nearly 1700 IP-SDMF speakers throughout the schools to ensure messages AtlasIED was chosen as the vendor for the system upgrades after a thorough evaluation of various vendors. Their feature set and industrial design, particularly the full LCD screen speaker, stood out. NIC Partners installed nearly 1700 IP-SDMF speakers throughout the schools to ensure messages were audible, visible, and intelligible. WAN or LAN network architecture Leveraging standard WAN or LAN network architecture, each speaker is equipped with an integrated talkback microphone, LCD, and LED flasher, supporting both visual text and audio broadcast to enhance physical security while improving day-to-day communications through advanced alerting, bell schedules, and pre-recorded and scheduled announcements.  For example, at 8:30 each morning, the Pledge of Allegiance is broadcast to all schools with a patriotic colour palette appearing on the IPX endpoints.  LED blinker “We needed to implement a solution that would serve the needs of all the students, including those with visual or audio impairments,” said Mara.  “That's why having the LED blinker and the message crawler was essential. That solved the issues regarding accessibility for our students and staff to ensure they got the message(s) every time.” Network-wide communication For campus exteriors, NIC Partners chose the IP-HVP speaker from AtlasIED For campus exteriors, NIC Partners chose the IP-HVP speaker from AtlasIED. The IP-HVP is a vandal-proof, IP45 weather-resistant, wall-mount IP speaker well-suited for environments where network-wide communication is desired, and high output is required to overcome excessive ambient noise or large spaces. Almost 600 IP-HVP speakers were installed district-wide. Additionally, the Power over Ethernet (PoE+)-enabled IPX endpoints connect through the same IT network the school uses to deliver Internet access. InformaCast mass communications software The platform simplifies the installation process for integrators and reduces the need to introduce multiple cable types to a project. The IPX platform also offers scalability benefits, allowing schools the flexibility to expand their systems as the district’s communications evolve.  The IPX Series also helped Torrance USD incorporate new and expanded campus safety capabilities with the help of InformaCast mass communications software. IPX LCD screens Torrance USD is trying out various colour combinations on the IPX LCD screens to indicate alerts Using InformaCast, designated school personnel can initiate an alert from a mobile device wherever they are. The software then sends text messages to faculty, students, and parents' mobile devices, alerts law enforcement, and activates attention-grabbing audio alarms and LCD text messages on the installed IPX devices throughout the school or district. Currently, Torrance USD is trying out various colour combinations on the IPX LCD screens to indicate different kinds of alerts, including earthquakes, shelter-in-place, and all-clear messages. Intentional and phased deployment leads to consistent use  NIC Partners started with the smallest school to establish best practices for implementation. Once the first school was completed and future implementation methods documented, NIC Partners went full-on with the remaining schools, working second shift during the school year and completing all the upgrades district-wide in less than five months.  The communication system is in the final phase of upgrading all the schools to InformaCast Fusion servers and upgrading Cisco Call Manager to Webex calling. These updates will allow select school and district staff members to make emergency announcements or push out notifications directly from their cell phones. NIC Partners and AtlasIED Staff and students appreciate the audio upgrades, albeit for different reasons. Teachers are relieved by the improved audio clarity, as they can finally hear things “loud and clear,” and emergency alerts include visual messaging. Students love the music played at the end of each period to indicate a class transition.  “Before the upgrades, you couldn't make a good page,” said Mara. “Now, the audio clarity is way better. We’re delighted with the IPX products and even happier to have NIC Partners and AtlasIED as our partners for such a huge undertaking. We wouldn't have been successful without their help.”

AtlasIED, a pioneer in the security and commercial audio industries, announces the launch of its new Rapid Alert system, which includes the IP-PB wearable panic button and the IP-RC BLE-controlled relay board. This system is designed to enhance emergency communication and integrates seamlessly with AtlasIED’s IPX IP Endpoints, providing immediate accessibility to trigger notifications during critical events. Improving response times The IP-PB panic button is worn on a lanyard and connects wirelessly to the IP-RC relay board via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). In emergency situations, users can press the panic button to activate notifications, including pre-programmed alerts that play throughout the facility. These notifications can be distributed through InformaCast or Revolution, ensuring that relevant personnel are promptly informed of the incident. “The Rapid Alert system represents a remarkable advancement in enhancing emergency response capabilities,” said Michael Peveler, VP of Sales for AtlasIED, adding “By integrating reliable wireless communication with our IPX Series, the system ensures quick and effective responses during critical situations. With the new panic button, an immediate and coordinated reaction can be initiated, significantly improving response times and emergency outcomes.” Reliable wireless connection The IP-RC BLE-controlled relay board connects directly to the IPX Series control boards  The system is composed of two core components. The wearable IP-PB panic button utilises BLE 5.0 Ultra Wide Band communication to provide a reliable wireless connection. It features a lithium-ion battery with a lifespan of up to three years and is IP67 rated, making it both durable and resistant to environmental factors.  The IP-RC BLE-controlled relay board connects directly to the IPX Series control boards and offers two relay closures that can be configured to trigger specific actions across the network. This capability enables users to initiate customised notifications for different emergency scenarios. Multiple activation sequences The system is designed to support multiple activation sequences to meet different response protocols. A quick double press of the button on the IP-PB activates one relay, while six or more button presses can automatically trigger a lockdown and immediately notify stakeholders and responders. This customisation of emergency responses offers exceptional flexibility. The Rapid Alert system integrates easily into existing AtlasIED IPX Series devices, ensuring seamless operation across various commercial environments and further proving the capability of AtlasIED’s Security Technology Solutions Ecosystem. It is ideal for schools, hospitals, industrial facilities, and corporate offices, where clear and timely communication is crucial during emergencies. The addition of the IP-PB enables AtlasIED to become Alyssa’s Law compliant, meeting the legislative requirements implemented in select states. The IP-PB wearable panic button and IP-RC relay board are now available.

AtlasIED, a pioneer in the AV and security industries, is returning to the Passenger Terminal Expo 2025, where it will exhibit in a shared booth with Nanolumens, Omnivex, and Sittig. AtlasIED will showcase its comprehensive transportation technology solutions at the show, including its renowned GLOBALCOM communications platform. Attendees are invited to experience these solutions in person at booth #9901. AtlasIED’s GLOBALCOM As a trusted communications provider in the transportation sector, AtlasIED’s GLOBALCOM Mass Communication and Emergency Platform is the go-to solution for airports worldwide.  Recently deployed at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A, GLOBALCOM operates in 85% of U.S. airports and major transportation hubs globally. Passenger terminal solutions The GLOBALCOM platform integrates seamlessly with existing IP-based network infrastructures Utilising Voice Over IP (VoIP) and Audio Over Ethernet (AoE) protocols, the GLOBALCOM platform integrates seamlessly with existing IP-based network infrastructures, delivering efficient, easy-to-manage communication systems. The partnership between AtlasIED, Nanolumens, Omnivex, and Sittig represents the highest standard of passenger terminal solutions for airports, contractors, and integrators by combining the best-of-breed solutions from pioneering global companies. Omnivex digital signage software Nanolumens is best known for creating the world's first large-format flexible display, the NanoFlex 112", but now offers a full product line of fixed, indoor LED displays in any size, shape, or curvature. Omnivex digital signage software helps manage every aspect of airport visual communications, from traveler-facing digital screens for FIDS, GIDS, BIDS and wayfinding to behind-the-scenes operation details and monitoring systems. Tested and integrated solution Sittig is the German market pioneer in automatic announcement systems for airports Sittig is the German market pioneer in automatic announcement systems for airports. This tested and integrated solution offers airports reliability, flexibility, scalability, and optimal return on investment in real-world applications. "AtlasIED continues to demonstrate its reliability and leadership in the global transportation industry through strong partnerships with the exceptional companies we are showcasing alongside," said Olivier Savoie, International Sales Manager at AtlasIED. Advancing transportation infrastructure Savoie added: "Our successful installations at Newark Airport and New York’s Moynihan Hall serve as recent examples of how we provide the communication solutions that today’s busiest passenger terminals depend on." AtlasIED’s participation in Passenger Terminal Expo 2025 underscores its commitment to advancing transportation infrastructure with innovative, high-performance technologies. Visit AtlasIED, Nanolumens, Omnivex, and Sittig at booth #9901 to learn more.

Keeping people and property safe is the purpose of the entire security industry, and the methods for ensuring safety take numerous forms. From cameras to paging horns to door locks and badge readers, facility managers and security manufacturers must consider multiple factors for securing a building and managing emergencies. Mass notification is critical for many customers to protect a facility and keep people safe. Still, the technology may consist of many elements from one or multiple manufacturers as part of a comprehensive security system driven by a customer's unique requirements.  Lowered situational awareness For example, when I drop off my kids at school, they enter the building with headphones on while wearing a hoodie over their heads. With their ears covered and their vision restricted, they do not communicate with anyone and have lowered situational awareness. Other kids may be talking to friends or practicing sports to start their day, which increases the variability for anyone designing or architecting the communications technology for these environments.  In a different scenario, consider a factory worker in a facility that uses heavy equipment In a different scenario, consider a factory worker in a facility that uses heavy equipment. Due to the high decibel levels from the machinery, employees typically wear ear protection. In this environment, employees may not be able to hear anything beyond the buzz of machinery. Workers might need to use hand gestures because of the noise when communicating, so visual alerts may be a more effective way of sharing important information. Detect, notify, manage  Mass notification starts with evaluating an environment and determining the most effective way to communicate with the people affected by incidents. In an emergency, the goal is to ensure information and instructions are communicated to affected people through all means necessary, every time, as quickly as possible. Both scenarios above highlight how every person, from the student to the factory worker, has a preferred or even required method of communication, which is the primary reason why a typical mass notification solution necessitates many different technological elements. In its simplest form, mass notification consists of three phases and technology plays a central role in each. First, sensors or detectors identify something amiss in the environment. These triggers can take several forms, from motion sensors to gunshot detectors to fire panel relays and more. Mass notification system The mass notification system notifies predetermined individuals or groups that something has happened Those sensors transmit information to the system's digital signal processor or ‘brain, beginning the second phase: notification.  The mass notification system notifies predetermined individuals or groups that something has happened. The notification phase may occur with people onsite via audio or visual alerts or with people offsite through text alerts or phone calls. The third phase involves mitigating the problem. Mass notification technology is vital in helping authorities manage a situation via communication with the facility or location where the issue or incident originated.  Customer-driven Solutions   Every facility or space is unique and requires a complete understanding of what a customer needs to keep its facility operational and safe. Customer discussions should always start with asking what they want to be able to see, do, or measure. Once we understand the requirements, we can determine and recommend the most appropriate products for their mass notification solution. An industrial facility may use the same technology for a completely different use Because each school, company, or group involved in the notification process has custom policies and procedures when situations arise, security providers must implement different technologies to accommodate their needs. For instance, law enforcement agencies may want to receive a live video feed or occupancy sensor readings from a school to determine where people are in a facility in real-time. However, an industrial facility may use the same technology for a completely different use. For instance, a warehouse can use the same sensors to alert workers when delivery trucks arrive and need unloading. In both cases, the goal is to design a solution to better manage a situation in the fastest or most efficient way possible.  Technology Interoperability is Key The key differentiator for whether mass notification is a technology versus a solution is interoperability. Few companies have the resources to build every sensor or capability necessary for every scenario, which is why there is widespread collaboration in the security industry. From gunshot detectors to microphones to spotlights to smoke detectors, many of these products are incredibly innovative and, in some cases, industry standard. However, they serve only a single function on their own. The key differentiator for whether mass notification is a technology versus a solution is interoperability When integrators approach designing a mass notification system for a customer, each component chosen must be easy to integrate. If they're not, the customer may end up with a solution that doesn't meet all of their needs, regardless of how innovative the products are. The more flexible manufacturers make their products to connect or integrate with other platforms or systems, the more industry acceptance they'll receive and the more other manufacturers will consider and recommend to customers. For example, many popular audio systems and loudspeakers in the security industry connect to video surveillance platforms via a basic, hardwired relay-based technology. Focus on the Solution, not the Technology As a sales professional, I have the same conversations with customers about their technology needs as those from other manufacturers. The best manufacturers find ways to recommend products beyond their own portfolio that make sense. The manufacturers of these products must ensure they are compatible with other products, which requires vetting, testing, or collaboration with the most common security platforms. If the products fail basic compatibility tests, they will not be reliable enough to recommend.  Security manufacturers have the responsibility to help customers find a way to meet their varied needs. Whether it's a mass notification or a video surveillance system, manufacturers must work to ensure their technology is compatible and reliable. The industry's reputation is on the line when solution selling, and manufacturers must build their products to industry standards so the recommended solutions work as intended, every time. Because when lives are at stake, there are no second chances or reboots allowed.