Carrier Corporation - Experts & Thought Leaders

Automated Logic is proud to announce the expansion of its OptiFlex controller line for the WebCTRL® building automation system.  Two new controllers join the OptiFlex family, including the OptiFlex 022 (OF022-E2) zone controller and the OptiFlex compact segment router (OFCSR-E2). These controllers feature dual IP ports for convenient daisy-chain deployment and a compact footprint for a more flexible system design. Automated Logic, a provider of innovative building-management solutions, is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, the provider of healthy, safe, sustainable, and intelligent building and cold chain solutions. OptiFlex 022 (OF022-E2) zone controller The OptiFlex 022 (OF022-E2) zone controller is engineered to deliver unparalleled efficiency and reliability for modern building environments. Featuring dual IP ports for convenient daisy-chain deployment, the OF022-E2 supports two universal inputs and two analog outputs, ensuring versatile control options for a variety of applications. Its smaller form factor not only simplifies installation but also optimises space, making it an ideal solution for areas requiring dependable and precise environmental control. OptiFlex compact segment router (OFCSR-E2) OFCSR-E2 offers robust routing capabilities between BACnet®/IP, BACnet Ethernet, BACnet/ARCnet, and BACnet MS/TP Complementing the OptiFlex 022, the OptiFlex compact segment router (OFCSR-E2) is designed to facilitate seamless migration from traditional serial network segments to fast and performant IP backbones. The OFCSR-E2 offers robust routing capabilities between BACnet®/IP, BACnet Ethernet, BACnet/ARCnet, and BACnet MS/TP networks, with native support for IPv4. It is equipped with three physical communication ports: two 10/100 Mbps BACnet IP/Ethernet ports and a high-speed EIA-485 port that can be configured for BACnet/ARCnet or BACnet MS/TP. Additionally, the device features a USB port for local access. Intelligent, connected, and efficient buildings “At Automated Logic, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in building automation to create more intelligent, connected, and efficient buildings,” said Axel Reichert, President, of Automated Logic. “The introduction of the OptiFlex 022 zone controller and the OptiFlex compact segment router is a testament to our dedication to innovation and our customers’ needs."  IP-based communication "These solutions not only enhance building performance and network reliability but also offer a path forward for legacy systems to embrace the benefits of IP-based communication.” The OptiFlex 022 zone controller and the OptiFlex compact segment router are available for order through Automated Logic’s global network of dealers.

LenelS2, the global pioneer in advanced security systems and services, will showcase new and upcoming innovations that have been developed with customers in mind, with a focus on cloud-solution enhancements at the annual International Security Conference & Exposition (ISC West 2024), in Las Vegas on April 9 - 12. LenelS2 is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global pioneer in intelligent climate and energy solutions. OnGuard Cloud Highlights at ISC West will include a deep dive into OnGuard Cloud, an enterprise cloud solution providing all the features and functionality of LenelS2’s OnGuard® platform, one of the industry’s most widely used, deeply integrated, and feature-rich access control systems. Already deployed to early adoption customers, OnGuard Cloud provides customers the benefit of cloud scalability with the full functional capabilities and integrations of its existing OnGuard on-premises solution, with 24/7 operational monitoring and support. Secure cloud hosting solutions LenelS2 and AWS experts will be on-site to speak with customers who are considering moving to the cloud LenelS2 partners with Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS), an industry pioneer in reliable, secure cloud hosting solutions, to help deliver cloud deployment options for OnGuard. LenelS2 and AWS experts will be on-site at ISC West to speak with customers considering moving to a cloud-based or hybrid solution. BlueDiamond™ experience During the event, live demonstrations of the BlueDiamond™ experience with the Employee Badge in Apple Wallet will also be showcased throughout LenelS2’s booth. This recently launched solution offers the security industry’s first full-stack, comprehensive NFC solution from a single provider, including access control, readers and credential issuance, and management, pioneering a range of value-added benefits such as faster customer implementation, lower total cost of ownership, and a more integrated, easy-to-use experience. OnGuard®, NetBox™ , and Elements™  LenelS2 will showcase recent and upcoming enhancements to core product lines, including its OnGuard®, NetBox™, and Elements™ platforms. Releasing in July 2024, OnGuard v8.3 further advances the transformation of the OnGuard UI to a browser-based environment. Additionally, version 8.3 further enhances and tightens the robust integration between Milestone and OnGuard, including integrated Milestone support content within the OnGuard UI, enhanced Event Video support, and streamlined camera licensing for Milestone-supported cameras. OnGuard version 8.3 also introduces Reader Lockdown Groups, allowing the creation and management of logical groups of readers within the OnGuard system to activate or release a lockdown easily. NetBox v6.0 is expected later this year and includes a new user navigation experience, reporting and cybersecurity enhancements, and NFC mobile credential support for Employee Badge in Apple Wallet. Recent updates to the Elements platform, LenelS2’s native cloud solution, include expanded video capabilities with the Milestone XProtect VMS integration, cybersecurity enhancements, and additional deployment options that allow customers to leverage existing hardware investments as they transition to the cloud. “As the global pioneer in access control technology, our primary focus is continuous innovation aimed at enriching our customers’ and value-added resellers (VARs) experiences, fostering business success, and securing the well-being of our communities,” said Kumar Sokka, Global President, LenelS2. Increasing people, assets, and places security LenelS2 will also showcase a range of innovations that empower users to leverage complex security data “Expanding our portfolio with AI and cloud technologies enables us to drive lower cost of ownership, simplify system maintenance, increase customised reporting capabilities, and greatly enhance the overall security of the people, assets, and places where we live, work, and thrive.” LenelS2 will also showcase a range of innovations currently in development that empower users to leverage complex security data through simple tools, providing greater efficiency and streamlined operations, including the LenelS2 Partner Marketplace portal which enables customers to search and discover new ecosystem add-ons. AI-based tools Additionally, LenelS2 will showcase AI-based tools that undertake sophisticated vetting of personnel to make informed access decisions, chatbots that expedite on-demand documentation searches and reports (as well as initiate actions), and cloud-based services that optimise maintenance operations by saving time, reducing expenses, and improving the spend of applying enhancements. Conference guests will also have the opportunity to speak with six members of LenelS2's OpenAccess Alliance Program (OAAP) who will have demo kiosks within the booth including Alutel Mobility, Ambient.ai, Idemia, Inex Technology, Splan, and Zenitel.

XOi, a pioneering provider of technician-focused technology solutions, has named veteran industry pioneer Richard “Fletch” Fletcher to head the company’s critical manufacturer partnerships as it continues to invest in technician-focused technology driving the digital transformation of the skilled trades.  As the newly appointed executive vice president of XOi’s OEM channel, Fletcher leverages his manufacturer experience to head the evolution and execution of XOi’s OEM partner strategy; support XOi’s OEM partner relationships; and optimise long-term value and adoption for OEM partners. Premier digital tool “I’m proud to work for a company that’s remained true to its blue-collar roots while innovating the field service technology industry,” Fletcher said. “Our industry is rapidly changing. Customer expectations are higher than ever and the skilled trades gap is growing. XOi is the premier digital tool for business owners to successfully navigate these challenges." Productivity and profitability Our relationships with the trusted companies that design and manufacture the complex equipment that keeps us all safe" "Our mission is to help contractors enhance productivity and profitability by empowering the hard-working men and women on the front lines of the industry." "Our relationships with the trusted companies that design and manufacture the complex equipment that keeps us all safe and comfortable is a crucial element of our vision for the industry.” Fletcher's experience Fletcher has 30 years of experience in residential and light commercial HVAC and construction sales, marketing, and development, including a decade in executive leadership for Carrier, a worldwide pioneer in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration solutions. He has designed and led sales recognition programs with double-digit growth above market growth and large high-touch customer engagement campaigns resulting in 95-plus percent dealer retention. CEO's comment Richard brings invaluable experience and insight that positions XOi to deliver premium value" “Our mission to truly transform the field service industry depends on our partnerships throughout the OEM sector,” said Aaron Salow, founder and CEO of XOi. “Richard brings invaluable experience and insight that positions XOi to deliver premium value to all our OEM partners and, as a result, improve the experience of technicians and end users and elevate results for all of us.” Managing and leveraging data XOi provides field service contractors and their teams the premier tool for managing and leveraging data from current jobs as well as historical projects, including powerful data collection, virtual support and mentoring, and real, actionable insights. XOi users report, on average, a 20% reduction in the amount of time it takes to complete tasks, an additional $1.4 million in new replacement and preventive maintenance contract revenue, and a 40% reduction in second truck rolls.

Big news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front is closing out 2024, a year in which several shifts changed the face of the physical security manufacturer community. Announced in December, German giant Bosch Group is selling its Building Technologies division’s product business for security and communications technology to the European investment firm Triton.  Bosch division selling to Triton  The transaction encompasses three business units – Video, Access and Intrusion, and Communication – and thus the entire product business of Bosch Building Technologies that was offered for sale. All 4,300 associates employed in these units at more than 90 locations worldwide will be taken over. The transaction reflects a growing confidence in the security market among private equity companies such as Triton, Becklar, and Volaris.   Sharing best practices Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership Acre Security, previously acquired by Triton, has benefited from Triton’s strategic guidance and expertise, according to the company, which is confident Bosch will experience the same level of support and opportunity to thrive. Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership, but will benefit from the potential to collaborate and share best practices as part of the broader Triton portfolio.  Resideo acquires Snap One  Earlier in 2024, there were other large M&A transactions. In the spring, Resideo Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of technology-driven products and solutions, agreed to acquire Snap One Holdings Corp., a provider of smart-living products, services, and software to professional integrators. The transaction is valued at $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One becomes part of Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business.  Honeywell buys Carrier’s Access Solutions  In late 2023, Honeywell announced plans to enhance and strengthen its building automation capabilities with the acquisition of Carrier Global Corporation’s Global Access Solutions business for $4.95 billion, in an all-cash transaction.  The acquisition, which played out through 2024, includes both hardware and software solutions, adding three respected brands to Honeywell’s portfolio with a focus on life safety and digital access solutions. Acquired brands include LenelS2, commercial and enterprise access solutions; Onity electronic locks; and Supra cloud-based electronic real estate lock boxes. Hirsch reemerges as an iconic brand  The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval Identiv announced plans to sell its physical security business and assets to Vitaprotech, the security solutions provider that also acquired British manufacturer, TDSI, in 2019. The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval.  As a result of the sale, Hirsch, a global security technology pioneer advancing physical security, video intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital identification solutions, announces the relaunch of its iconic brand and strengthened focus on the industry’s most complete high-security, end-to-end platform.  Ease of use security solutions The move seeks to reposition Hirsch as the global pioneer in physical security, video intelligence, and identity solutions, protecting everything from small enterprises to critical national infrastructure. With a 43-year-strong foundation in the industry, Hirsch’s mission has always been empowering a secure, connected world, combining government-grade high security with ease of use. Milestone and Arcules unite  Effective July 1, 2024, global video technology company Milestone Systems announced its merger with the cloud-based video surveillance solutions provider, Arcules. Both companies are owned by Japanese multinational Canon Inc. Based in Irvine, Calif., Arcules was spun off from Milestone in 2017. The merger brings together Milestone and Arcules’ best-in-class capabilities within video management software (VMS), video analytics, and video surveillance as a service (VSaaS), providing a complete video technology offering.  More M&A stories in 2024  In other M&A moves in 2024, cloud-based workforce management software provider Synerion USA Inc. acquired cloud-based video surveillance and access control solutions platform Qumulex Inc. Also, the global pioneer in airspace awareness and security, Dedrone, became part of the public safety and technology company Axon. The acquisition unites two companies with a shared mission to improve public safety and national security by staying ahead of persistent and escalating threats, enabling faster, more effective responses and ultimately protecting more lives in more places.