Traditional security solutions treat each security application as an independent solution.
Today however, it is becoming increasingly necessary to integrate a variety of systems for the provision of a complete integrated security solution that builds on the strength of each individual product.
Examples of integrated solutions that are used in numerous applications to secure facilities include biometric-based access control, CCTV, RFID, number plate recognition and perimeter and building management. With integrated solutions, the maxim holds that 'the whole is stronger than the sum of its parts'. What is also clear, though, is that a successfully integrated system is only as strong as its weakest link.
And this is where the strength of each individual component counts. What sets ACE apart from other integrated security solutions providers is the fact that ACE partners are recognised as industry leaders in their field. As membership to ACE is exclusive - based on the partner's ability to provide proven leading solutions - one is assured that an ACE solution will set new standards in the security industry.
One of ACE's major strengths is the recognition of the integral part that fingerprint-based biometric access control plays in securing environments. Fingerprint-based biometric access control is widely accepted and used for a variety of residential access control applications, including individual homes, apartment blocks, offices and estates.
The use of biometrics is an effective way to manage the entrance and exit of residents and visitors to the premises without the use of cards, keys, PINS or remotes. Biometric-based access is being used as a 'high-tech' selling feature by property developers to attract customers.
A prime example of a biometric solution that is integrated with other leading RFID and surveillance solutions is as follows: controlling access to an estate via fingerprint readers has now proven to be so successful that the next wave of applications is strongly focused on linking items of value to the biometrics of a person or group of people. This is done by linking an RFID tag to one or more fingerprints, and then linking the tag to an important or high value item.
If someone tries to exit the estate with a tagged item and his/her fingerprints have not been linked to the item, even though he/she may normally have rights to enter and exit the estate, he/she will on such an occasion, not be allowed out of the estate. The system can then send an SMS alert notifying the owner of the incident. Vehicles and valuables can be tagged and associated in the same way.
Another concept that is revolutionising traditional security applications is that of 'integrated building management'. It is becoming common for residential apartment blocks to manage access not only to each apartment, but also to lifts and specific floors using fingerprint biometrics based on a resident's access rights. Once again, the RFID asset tracking linked to biometrics is highly applicable in the apartment scenario as there are usually a limited number of well-controlled access points. Integration of biometrics into apartment alarm panels, lighting and airconditioning systems is a further extension of the integrated building management concept.
The integration of surveillance systems into the abovementioned measures is of course an essential part of any residential security solution. Where previously CCTV was used as a standalone system, it is today invariably integrated with an access control system and even a state-of-the-art number plate recognition system in some cases.
The integration of these and other leading solutions provided by each ACE partner makes economic sense and ensures that each facet of a facilities security concern is taken care of. The ACE partnership, built on trust and zero tolerance for substandard quality, is indeed setting new South African standards in integrated solutions that cater for each individual's unique security needs.
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