Orion Entrance Control - Experts & Thought Leaders

Orion Entrance Control, Inc wanted to remove friction and frustration for their integrators and end users with a single-source reader that could support any RFID technology and fit seamlessly into their turnstiles and other physical access control (PAC) products. The reader needed to be able to: Provide reliable and secure user identification and access control with excellent read range. Read all of the RFID card technologies their clients might be using. Have a compact form factor and sleek design for integration with their PAC products. Enable remote updates to support changing client requirements. Integrated access solutions Orion Entrance Control creates software, hardware, and infrastructure solutions for physical access control (PAC), occupant sensing, and visitor management. They develop access control software and manufacture high-end turnstiles, speed gates, swing gates, optical door alert systems, and other security solutions. Founded in 2009, they pride themselves on engineering and product excellence, with all of their products manufactured locally near their New Hampshire headquarters. They work with distribution partners and integrators to bring their access solutions to large commercial clients worldwide in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and other industries. One of Orion’s priorities is offering seamless, integrated access solutions that minimise friction for integrators and are simple and reliable for end users. They wanted an RFID reader that would support any RFID technology and be easily integrated into their turnstile products. Challenges faced by Orion Turnstiles and other components provided by Orion need to work within the access systems already in use Orion has 32 different turnstile products, from full-height mechanical turn gates to classic tripod turnstiles, to high-speed retractable barrier gates. An RFID reader embedded into the turnstile reads user credentials (e.g., an ID badge or mobile credential) and connects to the back-end software that verifies access authorisation levels. Both their US and international customers use various RFID transponder technologies. Turnstiles and other components provided by Orion need to work within the access systems already in use by their customers. Traditional credentialing system Traditionally, Orion would work with integrators to determine the credentialing system the customer needed and then order the corresponding readers. This created delays for installers as they waited for the right readers to arrive. It also created complexity in Orion’s supply chain, as they had to manage inventory from multiple reader manufacturers. When the pandemic disrupted supply chains for some of their suppliers, they knew they needed to look for another solution. Read-range challenges At the same time, RFID reader read range was becoming a critical issue for many clients. More sophisticated reader technology and encryption create read-range challenges for some readers, especially when embedded under glass within a turnstile. This creates frustration for end users and slows down entry queues. Need for a standardised reader solution Working with multiple reader manufacturers, each differently sized and shaped readers, created engineering challenges They also needed a standardised reader solution that would fit any of their turnstile products. The architectural community has pushed for smaller, more streamlined turnstiles, so embedded systems must be highly compact. Working with multiple reader manufacturers, each with differently sized and shaped readers, created engineering challenges for Orion and headaches for installers. All of this resulted in more work for integrators and more delays for buyers. Need for a frictionless access range "We were looking for a reliable reader that had a great read range, could accept everyone’s credentials, and would be ready to go when you fit it in the turnstile," said Jerry Waldron, Customer Care Manager, Orion Entrance Control. "It’s one more thing we can do to remove friction and provide better service to our customers." Orion's reader requirements Orion Entrance Control, Inc. wanted to remove friction and frustration for their integrators and end users with a single-source reader that could support any RFID technology and fit seamlessly into their turnstiles and other physical access control (PAC) products. The reader needed to be able to: Provide reliable and secure user identification and access control with an excellent read range. Read all of the RFID card technologies their clients might be using. Have a compact form factor and sleek design for integration with their PAC products. Enable remote updates to support changing client requirements. Solution: ELATEC TWN4 Palon family of readers The Palon Compact Panel Reader features robust panel housing suitable for indoor and outdoor use The ELATEC TWN4 Palon family of readers fits the bill. The versatile readers are designed for seamless integration into third-party products and devices. Palon supports advanced interfaces (including RS-232, RS-485, USB, and more) and is simple to mount and install. The Palon Compact Panel Reader features robust panel housing suitable for indoor and outdoor use and a classic design that fits seamlessly into Orion’s turnstiles. They also have the option of using the TWN Palon Compact M reader, which comes without housing. RFID and smartphone credentials The TWN4 Palon line supports 60+ transponder technologies, including both low- and high-frequency RFID and smartphone credentials via near-field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE). This gives Orion the flexibility to support virtually any existing transponder technology its clients use with a single reader. Customer experiences "One of our most important values is creating remarkable customer experiences," said Steve Caroselli, Chief Executive Officer and President, of Orion Entrance Control. "We want to provide more than they expect and deliver a product with exceptional quality. With ELATEC, we’ve found a partner that shares that core ethos." Read range and reliability Palon reader acts as a data converter to connect the barcode reader to the Weigand interface, simplifying cabling ELATEC’s readers provide excellent read range and reliability, reducing frustration for users and system managers. ELATEC was also able to help Orion integrate the Palon readers with a barcode reader to meet a customer’s requirements. In that instance, the Palon reader acts as a data converter to connect the barcode reader to the Weigand interface, simplifying cabling for the installer. The integrated system supports barcodes for visitors and RFID for employees for a unified access experience. Flexibility “ELATEC gives us the flexibility to serve all our clients and the confidence that we’re going to be able to deliver a product that just works," said Steve Johnston, Director of Sales and Marketing, Orion Entrance Control. "We know that when it shows up on-site, it’s going to be a good experience for the installer and the owner of the company.”  Benefits for ELATEC readers A universal reader allows Orion to reduce friction for clients, installers and distribution partners, and their people. Orion can support all their customers with the same RFID reader, simplifying sales, supply chains, inventory management, installation, and support. The sales team no longer must confirm in advance which transponder technology the end customer needs, the TWN4 Palon supports them all. And the engineering team can eliminate the headaches inherent in trying to fit readers with different form factors into their products. Single-part number solution ELATEC’s readers support fast, contactless reconfiguration after installation via a configuration card A single-part number solution reduces the time it takes to get the right system into the hands of installers and end customers. It also provides flexibility for the future. ELATEC’s readers support fast, contactless reconfiguration after installation via a configuration card or remote update. That means that it’s easy to update the readers for clients who add a new transponder technology, integrate mobile credentials into an existing system, or upgrade their security standards. Their turnstile and door access solutions are ready for the future. Seamless access experience Orion also appreciates the service and support they get from ELATEC. ELATEC has a production capacity in the U.S., which eases Orion’s supply chain worries. With ELATEC’s support, they can offer their customers a truly integrated PAC solution that provides a seamless access experience.

Orion Entrance Control (Orion) is pleased to announce that Paul Ragusa has joined the company as Marketing Manager. Prior to joining Orion, Paul honed his marketing and writing skills, working for more than 25 years in management roles at several publishing, media and marketing companies, including most recently as Editor of Security Systems News (SSN). During his six-plus years at SSN, Paul Ragusa oversaw all content for the publication and website, in addition to creating the education program for the company’s annual SecurityNext 2022 conference. New Marketing Manager appointment “I am super excited to start this new chapter in my career at Orion, a company that is doing great things, under the strong leadership of CEO and Founder, Steve Caroselli,” said Paul Ragusa, who will report to, and work closely with the recently hired Sales and Marketing Director, Steve Johnston, at Orion. He adds, “I am impressed with the incredibly talented team that he has put in place, the company culture he is building, and his vision for the company overall.” Vast industry experience Paul Ragusa has served on the Security Industry Association’s New Product & Solutions Award Committee Paul Ragusa has served on the Security Industry Association’s (SIA) New Product & Solutions Award Committee, and the SIA Women in Security Forum (WISF) Power 100 Nominations Committee, helping to launch the first-ever Power 100 list of women in security. In addition, Paul Ragusa spearheaded the partnership with PSA Security Network for the new ‘Systems Integrator and Bill Bozeman Awards’, recognising top integration companies, as well as the partnership with The Monitoring Association (TMA), in order to create a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Leadership Award with the goal of promoting and fostering a more inclusive workforce throughout the security industry. “We are very excited to add Paul Ragusa to the Orion leadership team, as we build out our marketing presence, to help support the incredible growth we are experiencing,” said Steve Caroselli, adding “Paul brings a wealth of security industry experience and knowledge. I can’t think of a better person to help lead our marketing content and tell Orion’s story as the best kept secret in security.” Specialist in speed lanes and optical turnstiles Orion Entrance Control is a renowned U.S. technology company, specialising in speed lanes, optical turnstiles, full height turnstiles, security tailgating solutions, and occupancy sensor solutions with data delivered through their cutting-edge IoT device software - Infinity. From their security piggybacking and tailgating solution - DoorGuard, to their presence detection sensing solution - Constellation, Orion delivers actionable data and business intelligence to its customers, while providing the highest quality materials, backed by stellar customer service and support.

Orion announces that Steve Johnston will be joining the company as the Director of Sales & Marketing. The University of Michigan graduate brings additional security industry leadership to Orion from both manufacturer and integrator perspectives which will be critical assets in his Orion responsibilities. Steve Johnston stated, “Orion is a technology company that designs, manufacturers, sells, and supports the best technology in the industry. I’m ready to help clients leverage our technologies to create safe, secure, and sustainable spaces.” Detection and tailgating solution In addition to the full Orion product line managed through the IOT device software Infinity™, the company’s new technology offerings made the opportunity especially attractive. Specifically, presence detection sensing Constellation™ as well as security piggybacking and tailgating solution DoorGuard™ played key roles in his decision to join Orion. Orion CEO Steve Caroselli pointed out, “We are very excited to have Steve Johnston join the Orion Leadership Team to take our sales and marketing to the next level as we continue to scale up with new technologies, channels, and expanded partnerships across multiple business segments.” Occupancy sensor solutions Orion is a United States technology company that specialises in speed lanes, optical turnstiles, full height turnstiles, security tailgating solutions, and occupancy sensor solutions with data delivered through cutting edge IOT device software Infinity™. From the entrance to the back office, Orion has brought intelligent, effective technologies to help drive greater data and metrics to maximise business efficiencies as well as a higher level of safety through intelligent business practices.

Collaboration among manufacturers in the physical security industry can result in systems that are easier to install for integrators and that provide a better customer experience for end users. Illustrating the point is the recent collaboration among a turnstile technology company, a supplier of short-range wireless readers/writers, and a biometric business focused on ‘frictionless’ access control.  “The more manufacturers collaborate with each other, the more benefits for end users,” says Steve Caroselli, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Orion Entrance Control. Better collaboration means a better user experience We look for opportunities to collaborate and make sure the experience is above and beyond" Steve Caroselli adds, “Better collaboration means a better user experience. We look for opportunities to collaborate and make sure the experience is above and beyond.” Orion’s collaboration with ELATEC RFID Systems and SAFR touchless biometrics by RealNetworks Inc. highlights the advantages of manufacturers working together to ensure technologies operate smoothly in the real world. Taking ownership of the customer experience When Orion Entrance Control provides a SpeedGate swing-glass optical turnstile, they take full ownership of the customer’s experience. That means ensuring the turnstile application operates as it should, regardless of which component of the broader system might be at fault. To the customer experience, a card reader that doesn’t work is the equivalent of a turnstile that doesn’t work. Which component is at fault is irrelevant, and in fact, invisible, to the overall customer experience. Importance of dependable operation of turnstiles As the most visible element in many access control systems, dependable operation of turnstiles reflects positively on the manufacturer and on the entire system. Orion tests various third-party components with their turnstiles To ensure an optimum customer experience, Orion tests various third-party components with their turnstiles, in order to ensure flawless operation before a turnstile is delivered to a customer. Customers buying an Orion turnstile send the card readers they want to use to Orion’s corporate headquarters in Laconia, New Hampshire, USA, where Orion engineers ensure seamless operation. Ensuring optimum customer experience All readers are designed to be bolted to the wall rather than installed inside a turnstile In addition to scenario-based testing, readers are placed inside the turnstile for a streamline appearance, which can be a challenge given the variety of sizes and types of readers a customer might choose. All readers are designed to be bolted to the wall rather than installed inside a turnstile, which complicates adaptation efforts. In short, historically for Orion, ensuring the optimum customer experience involved extra time and effort, although obviously it was worth it. Providing flexibility for any environment Seeking to simplify the process, Orion has found an alternative to using many different types and models of card readers for its turnstiles. Deploying an RFID reader/writer from ELATEC provides flexibility to operate in a variety of card and reader environments, including almost all 125 kHz and 13.56 MHz contactless technologies. The product is compatible with low-frequency (LF), high-frequency (HF), near field communication (NFC) or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals. An integrated BLE module supports mobile ID and authentication solutions. There is an integrated antenna for LF and HF to ensure excellent contactless performance. ‘Universal’ configuration of the ELATEC reader hardware Using applicable firmware, the ‘universal’ configuration of the ELATEC reader hardware is compatible with any card system. It works with all the access control protocols, including SEOS, OSDP and other open protocols. “We can stock an open SKU and flash the firmware as per the customer requirement,” says Steve Caroselli. The small form factor (around 1 1/2 inches square) of the ELATEC module lends itself to easy installation inside the turnstile housing. Easy availability of the ELATEC readers helps Orion continue to serve customers, despite recent disruptions in the supply chain. And, ELATEC’s reader hardware has earned global certifications that enable Orion to use their products for customers around the world. Testing to ensure smooth operation ELATEC was responsive at every stage as the relationship evolved, providing sample equipment for testing Before embracing the ELATEC reader module, Orion tested it for several months to ensure compatibility with its turnstiles. ELATEC was responsive at every stage as the relationship evolved, providing sample equipment for testing and working closely with the Orion team. Everyone in the ELATEC sales and engineering team, right up the company’s C-suite, worked to support Orion during the testing phase. In the end, in addition to other advantages, ELATEC’s detection speed and read range compares favorably to competing technologies. “We move really fast as an organisation, so we are looking for other organisations that move very fast,” says Steve Caroselli, adding “We met with ELATEC one week and had the equipment for testing the next week. We like to work with companies that move fast, and they are culturally aligned with how we do business.” Orion turnstiles with ELATEC TWN4 Palon Compact panel The Orion turnstiles incorporate an ELATEC TWN4 Palon Compact panel, a versatile panel-mount reader designed for integration into third-party products and devices. It supports enhanced interfaces, especially RS-485, and reflects the advantages and integrated tool support of the ELATEC TWN4 family. Orion is implementing SAFR SCAN biometric technology using hardware and software from RealNetworks Inc. “The selection of ELATEC products allows Orion to provide their customers and partners with a flexible RFID reader solution that supports numerous credential options and virtually all transponder technologies,” said Paul Massey, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ELATEC, Inc., adding “This is especially valuable in multi-tenet, multi-credential environments.” Orion works with all the various stakeholders – architects, consultants, integrators, and end users – to ensure total satisfaction with an installation. Biometric technology for ‘frictionless’ access control Orion is also implementing SAFR SCAN biometric technology into their turnstiles using hardware and software from RealNetworks Inc. The facial recognition reader technology, designed for mainstream commercial access control, provides a ‘frictionless’ experience, and allows users to pass through turnstiles at a walk. The system can authenticate up to 30 individuals per minute with 99.9% accuracy, despite varied lighting conditions. SAFR’s system provides a good user experience Orion designed a mounting system to incorporate the biometric reader into their turnstile design Orion designed a mounting system to incorporate the biometric reader into their turnstile design. SAFR’s system provides a good user experience, when it comes to enrollment. On each turnstile, the SAFR technology can operate separate from the ELATEC reader or in conjunction with it for multi-factor authentication in higher-security applications. Innovation for new applications A broad approach to the customer experience reflects Orion’s positioning as a technology company, in addition to being a manufacturer of turnstiles. Their Infinity software is the ecosystem ‘nerve centre’ platform to ensure operation and connected through a single ‘pane of glass.’ The need to protect more entrances beyond the lobby led Orion to develop its recently patented DoorGuard, a LIDAR-based solution that detects each person who passes through a doorway and prevents tailgating (like a turnstile) for applications, such as stairway doors, perimeter doors, data centres, IDF closets, etc. The software mimics the advantages of a turnstile to monitor access control and occupancy. Removing friction during installation and beyond Orion’s Constellation is a presence detection system that uses UWB (ultra-wideband) radar to sense where people are in a building for emergency response and building utilisation applications.  “One of our core values is to remove friction and make customers’ lives easier,” says Steve Caroselli, adding “Our people-first philosophy is: What can we do to make your life better? We want to be systematic, and everything must be repeatable in terms of how we react and interact with customers.”

The Global Security Exchange (GSX 2022) in Atlanta in September 2022 is the latest example of the energetic post-COVID resurgence of security trade shows. On the vibrant show flow, discussions centered on topics such as the security industry’s need for more employees and the lingering impact of a months-long supply chain crisis. Against a backdrop of continuing industry challenges, exhibitors and attendees were diverted by a wealth of new opportunities as the industry rebounded. Several major players had big product announcements at GSX 2022 in Atlanta. Manufacturers unveil the latest technology  The big news at Genetec was “5.11.” That’s the newest version of Security Center, which is “all in,” i.e., providing everything Genetec offers in a single “unified” platform. The unified approach streamlines the process for systems integrators, makes quotes easier, and adds value for customers. Standard, Pro, and Enterprise versions provide video, access, and LPR “right out of the box.” Genetec is also launching a new web and mobile client for the “next generation operator.” Paid intern programme Kyle Hurt says the security industry’s biggest challenge is attracting personnel  Kyle Hurt, Genetec’s Senior Sales Director, North America, says the security industry’s biggest challenge is attracting personnel (even more challenging that the supply chain.) Genetec’s response is a robust paid intern programme, welcoming 120 interns into various departments for a full semester. The programme helps to feed Genetec’s need for new talent. “You can’t coach passion,” said Hurt. WiseNet Edge Hanwha Techwin introduced a “serverless camera” at GSX 2022, named the WiseNet Edge. It is a video camera with a built-in solid-state hard drive for storage. The camera can store its own video and take in other camera feeds. In effect, it operates like an NVR but is less expensive and with an internal solid-state drive. Video can be viewed through a cloud browser, and Hanwha’s WAVE software, loaded on the camera, enables the management of several cameras at a site. High-res video is stored inside the camera, and any information can be shared with the cloud according to the needs of the application. i-PRO Mini i-PRO launches its own Video Insight video management system and MonitorCast access control i-PRO has fully transitioned away from Panasonic and is charting its own ambitious future path. Seeking to be “bold, trusted, and flexible,” the company is releasing a raft of new products, filling in previous gaps in the line, and bringing forward new innovations, including a full complement of AI. In addition to hardware, they have their own Video Insight video management system and MonitorCast access control, which was part of the Video Insight acquisition in 2015. An i-PRO Mini is a tiny camera, smaller than a smartphone. All cameras are NDAA compliant. People are coming together “The show has been phenomenal,” said Josh Letourneau, Chief Commercial Officer, Prosegur USA. “It’s very nice to see that people are coming back. After the pandemic, we are finally in a position of coming together. Lots of organisations are coming to see us.” Intelligence-led risk management Prosegur is a global company looking to expand aggressively in the United States, creating multiple “metropolitan service areas,” where the company’s fully integrated offerings are available. What makes the company unique is its “intelligence-led risk management,” says Josh Letourneau, adding “It’s more than AI, it’s about human intelligence, too." Prosegur sees evolution and growth opportunities in the U.S. market. “We are one of the largest companies no one has heard of,” adds Letourneau. “The show seems as back to normal as possible,” said Keith Bobrosky, President of Delta Scientific, who attended the show although his company did not exhibit, adding “There seems to be a generally positive spirit about the show this year.” Physical security protocols Bobrosky sees data centres as the next big market for his company’s vehicle barriers Bobrosky’s company has worked aggressively to avoid the impact of supply chain issues, ordering plenty of extra inventory to avoid the possibility of a part running out of stock. “We got ahead of it and are past the worst of it,” he said. Bobrosky sees data centres as the next big market for his company’s vehicle barriers. “The government will mandate physical security protocols for cybersecurity locations because they house data that affects national security,” he says. Robots and indoor drones ADT Commercial highlighted robots and indoor drones for security apps at their booth. The newest versions of the humanlike robots offer extra padding, more fluid movement, and 360-degree viewing for a better virtual reality (VR) experience, including better peripheral vision. Robots can operate for four hours without a charge and “know” when to return to the charger (to “top off” every hour). Fully autonomous indoor drones can also replace guards, flying near the ceiling and generally after business hours. The use of either robots or drones can lower costs when compared to hiring human guards. Varied uses for canines in security Glen Kucera, Chief Executive Officer, MSA Security, highlighted the capabilities of canines for explosives and firearms detection. “People don’t realise the flexibility of what they can do,” he said. Kucera says canines provide a sophisticated solution to address the escalating active shooter and criminal threat. MSA Security was acquired last year by Allied Universal, adding to the company’s varied offerings for threat detection and management. Rather than individual products, Allied Universal’s emphasis at the show was on bringing solutions together. Their message: Risk is multi-dimensional and different from one client to the next. Access control  Access control needs to develop more modern interfaces to compete with new technology companies AMAG’s news at the show included a new president, David Sullivan, who highlighted AMAG’s role as one of the “last independent access control companies.” He said, “The beauty of AMAG is its installed base and loyal integrator channel.” Sullivan sees changing trends in how office space is managed in the wake of the pandemic. More workplace management applications will emerge, with one of the elements being access control. Access control also needs to develop more modern interfaces to compete with new technology companies entering the market. An encouraging sign is that AMAG had its best year ever in 2021. Orion Entrance Control Orion Entrance Control showed off one of its modern new turnstiles at the RealNetworks/SAFR booth at GSX 2022. The turnstile incorporates an access control module from Elatec to update and expand card reader functionality. Using the module streamlines Orion’s processes and avoids having to update a customer’s readers individually. The turnstile at GSX also incorporated a facial recognition system from SAFR, which could be used instead of, or in addition to, the access control reader. Balancing the cloud and on-premise systems Salient Systems is looking to balance the use of on-premise and cloud systems and emphasise data instead of video. Rather than a single market, Salient sees security as a variety of smaller markets, each focused on different needs. Salient’s customers are typically larger and have multi-site deployments with thousands of cameras. On-premise systems appeal here because they offer an element of control. Open-platform APIs Internal teams at customer sites are seeking out and finding new ways to leverage the data from video systems “People have a keen interest in control and ownership of their data,” says Sanjay Challa, Chief Product Officer, Salient Systems. Internal teams at customer sites are seeking out and finding new ways to leverage the data from video systems, and some of the uses fall outside the traditional “security” market. Open-platform application programming interfaces (APIs) enable more integration with various systems, and broader applications enable customers to leverage budgets from other stakeholders in an organisation. Add-on services “They’re unwilling to shift the entire solution to the cloud, but they want to leverage cloud technologies,” says Challa. For Salient, a cloud system provides remote access to monitor and service video installation remotely. “We enable the integrator to reach into your system to provide a higher level of service,” says Sanjay Challa. He concludes, “Our add-on services bring the best of the cloud to on-premise systems, and integrators don’t have to roll a truck to solve a problem with the system. We are focused on helping integrators succeed.” 

The optical speed lane and turnstile sector of the security market has had a very busy 2017. Growth in commercial construction has provided more opportunity.  Innovations in technology have given speed lane manufacturers an opportunity to deliver a better product. Orion sales increase and company growth Orion Entrance Control, Inc., had a great 2017 as sales increased and our company grew. We attribute our success to the unique approach we have taken since day one: providing customised products that offer customers more than a “one-size-fits-all” solution. We offer the line of turnstiles that you would expect from any reputable manufacturer in the marketplace, but we know that when dealing with lobby security or entrance control, one size definitely does not fit all. By providing various options to supplement our core line, we give our customers a solution that best suits their needs.The ability for security technologies and their manufacturers to work together is becoming increasingly more important to our customers One area that we will continue to build upon in the development of our products is in technology integrations. The ability for security technologies and their manufacturers to work together is becoming increasingly more important to our customers. The manufacturers that can future proof their products to allow the addition of new technologies and to protect a client’s investment from obsolescence will be the big winners in 2018 and beyond. Integration in entrance control Orion ECI’s products are built with technology and designs that have this vision for the future. For example, we work with the leaders in biometrics and Point of Sale (POS) solutions to integrate these systems into our entrance control products. Oftentimes, with just a wave of the hand or the right credential, approved users can enter with no hassle or even ring up a purchase. From a business standpoint, Orion ECI experienced a year of continued process improvement and design in 2017. We reached record sales revenues as we continued to receive orders from our existing enterprise clients and new customers. For 2018, we plan to add personnel in key growth areas. This will include additional inside and outside sales positions and product production and engineering roles.