This Week in Security: Presence Detection is an Intricate Element of Every Smart Home, Dealer Opportunities in Home Energy Solutions and more!

Each week, the marketing team at ESA gathers the latest news from the security industry for our weekly integrator round up!

This week we look at Spotlight on Security’s Unsung Heroes: A Conversation with Ancel Ramos, The Electronic Security Expo Unveils its “Must-Attend” Activities on the Expo Floor and More…

Don’t Miss Out on the Latest News and Technology

Monitoring Matters: Presence Detection is an Intricate Element of Every Smart Home

The future of intelligent and safe living spaces is now here when a variety of mainstream technologies are leveraged in concert. A variety of technologies that most consumers currently have within their premises have now become the foundation for deploying new, groundbreaking technologies like presence detection.

Presence detection platforms aren’t all the same; they monitor presence and activity in a variety of manners. The differences stem from the core technology, the focus of what the technology is sensing, the AI and added benefits the platforms deliver.

Although some platforms have some overlap in features and benefits, the additional differences and markets they serve are important to consider. I believe you will also see some of these technologies work together to deliver even greater value.

Key Benefits of Presence Detection

Some of the key benefits of the various platforms include sensing, monitoring and notification of lifestyles and behavior, individual device identification, and enhanced aging in place and medical alert systems.

Although monitoring by activity and type is typically primary, in some scenarios, the absence of activity and anomalous activity are equally important. These systems bring additional value when augmented with other, traditional systems to create a comprehensive platform.

The two key technologies are Wi-Fi sensing, which leverages AI that utilizes the Wi-Fi waves within a premise to monitor and categorize presence, motion and activity type, and wireless device-based sensing. This utilizes AI technology, software and hardware solutions to detect people’s physical presence via their devices.

Both technology platforms, through their AI, deliver information about the presence or absence of activity within a premise. This information is transformed and becomes the factor that drives the smart home experience, premise security and verified central station monitoring.

Read the Full Article - Monitoring Matters: Presence Detection is an Intricate Element of Every Smart Home - Security Sales & Integration

The AI arms race: striking a balance between innovation and cybersecurity

The relationship between AI and cybersecurity is complex. On one hand, there is optimism about the promise of AI in building stronger cyber ecosystems and more sophisticated detection and mitigation solutions.?

On the other hand, there is the unvarnished reality around the use of AI for cybercrime. In the middle lies the challenge all organizations will face in striking the delicate balance between promoting AI-driven innovation and security while ensuring the ethical standards around its use.

Radware’s?director of threat intelligence, Pascal Geenens, weighs in with his thoughts on AI and its impact on the cybersecurity community in this Q&A with?SecurityInfoWatch.com. With more than 25 years of experience in information security and technology, Pascal has developed strong expertise in tracking cyber adversary groups.

Read the Full Article - The AI arms race: striking a balance between innovation and cybersecurity | Security Info Watch

The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) Unveils its “Must-Attend” Activities on the Expo Floor

The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) 2024 unveils the exciting activities and events taking place on the expo floor for two days (June 4-5) of the conference.?Attendees can look forward to a dynamic lineup of tech talks, innovation presentations, networking opportunities, and more, all designed to enhance their experience and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the electronic security and life safety industry.?

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“We’re thrilled to present cutting-edge security and life safety innovations at the expo, featuring top product and service providers.” says ESX Chairman, George De Marco “ESX provides a close-knit and comprehensive experience with exhibitors, fostering connections and collaboration with industry leaders, decision-makers, and influencers.”

Day 1: Tuesday, June 4, 2024, | 1:00-5:00 PM?

·?? 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Tech Talk and Coffee Break @ ESA Central?

Kick off the afternoon by mingling with fellow ESA members and ESA staff. This is a fantastic opportunity to network, share insights, and enjoy a coffee break together. Location: ESA Central Booth 513?

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·?? 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Innovation Awards Presentation?

Join?ESA?for the highly anticipated announcement of the TechVision Challenge winner and runner-up for 2024. This session offers executive pass holders technical and trend training that will keep them ahead of the curve.?Location: ESA Central Booth 513?

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·?? 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: ESA Central Counterpoint Session – Exploring the Shifting Landscape of Residential Security?

Dive into an engaging session exploring the evolution of residential security. This discussion will cover the spectrum from traditional alarm dealers to innovative AI-powered surveillance and DIY solutions. Gain insights into the forces shaping the future of home protection.?Location: ESA Central Booth 513?

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·?? 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Executive Management Professionals National Meet Up?

Network with industry peers while exploring four distinct Louisville-themed corners on the expo floor. Enjoy lite bites inspired by iconic Kentucky staples and refreshing drinks from open bars scattered throughout the aisles.?Location: Booth 801?

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·?? 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: ExpoBlock Party?

Explore four distinct Louisville-themed corners on the expo floor, each showcasing lite bites inspired by iconic Kentucky staples. And do not miss the libations – enjoy refreshing drinks from our open bars scattered throughout the aisles.?Location: Each Corner of the Expo Floor?

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Day 2: Wednesday, June 5, 2024, | 12:45-3:45 PM??

·?? 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: ESA Central NAPCO Tech Talk?

Discover how to add more residential RMR-accounts faster than ever with Prima by NAPCO. Learn about the benefits of this breakthrough smarter self-contained system, a 7” super panel for security, fire, video, and automation. This session is necessary for anyone looking to enhance their offerings and overcome common industry challenges.?Location: ESA Central Booth 513?

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·?? 2:00 PM – 3:45 PM: Expo Bourbon Trail Reception?

Embark on a culinary journey across the expo floor, where each corner offers bourbon-infused treats and lite bites that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the infamous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.?Location: Each Corner of the Expo Floor?

The Electronic Security Expo is a place where quality conversations can be had. This is more than quick product demos, come ready to explore installation tips, merchandising, pricing and ESX activities. Open to electronic and security pros only, you will not see end users here. We will have programing, refreshments and more throughout the day to complement your experience. All programming listed on this page is included with all ESX Passes.?Register here.?

Read the Full Article - The Electronic Security Expo (ESX) Unveils its “Must-Attend” Activities on the Expo Floor - ESX (esxweb.com)

Spotlight on Security’s Unsung Heroes: A Conversation with Ancel Ramos

In security, the true champions often work behind the scenes, their contributions crucial, yet rarely in the limelight. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one such individual, Ancel Ramos, Security Projects Programmer with Preferred Technologies (Pref-Tech). Ancel’s path into the security industry demonstrates that there are many routes that lead to meaningful and impactful careers within our field.

As part of our ongoing work to highlight the talent in the security industry,?FAST’s Executive Director, Aiden O’Brien, caught up with Ancel for a conversation about his path to becoming a Security Projects Programmer, his thoughts on the industry and the advice he has for those considering a similar path. Here’s what Ancel had to say:

Q: How did you first get into the security industry?

Ancel:?It was a bit of a roundabout way for me. I dropped out of high school initially because school just didn’t seem like my path. After a few odd jobs, I was inspired by my brother, who went to college for computer science. I went back to school, where we visited Pref-Tech on a field trip. I joined an apprenticeship program at Pref-Tech that introduced me to the IT and security side of things. I was curious, they saw potential, and I was eager to learn more.

Q: What has been your experience in the security industry?

Ancel:?It’s been great and much more technical than I expected. The role involves a lot of networking and other technical knowledge, which I find fascinating. You also have the opportunity to do a little bit of everything, from web development to customer service, and lots of other things.

Q: Can you describe your current role?

Ancel:?I’m a Security Projects Programmer. My day-to-day involves configuring cameras for projects, making sure they are up to date and ready for deployment. I handle a lot of IT aspects, like server configuration, which was something new to me when I started. I’m Genetec certified and working on other manufacturer certifications. Honestly, I did not know a lot of this was going to be part of my role when I started, but it is very exciting and different every day.

Q: Where do you see your career going in the future?

Ancel:?I see a lot of great paths in the industry. The security industry is filled with cool projects and work opportunities. It’s always exciting, and you never know what project will come next. You have the opportunity to work on projects that are very unique and important.

Q: Looking back, is there anything you wish you had known earlier in your career?

Ancel:?Definitely the importance of focusing and the value of education. I did well in my apprenticeship, but working to understand networking and being open to learning in general was crucial. Pref-Tech was welcoming and ready to teach me because I was willing to learn. Having a genuine interest in the industry and technology has helped me grow in this role and my career.

Q: Were you prepared by your schooling for this industry?

Ancel:?Honestly, not really. School gives you a base, but there’s a lot that’s specific to the industry that you can only learn on the job at this point. My advice to anyone looking to enter this field is to do what you enjoy and stay curious, there is so much you can learn here.

“Having a genuine interest in the industry and technology has helped me grow in this role and my career.”

At FAST, we believe that stories like Ancel’s are instrumental in showcasing the diverse opportunities in security. From technical positions like Security Projects Programmer and Installation Technicians to roles in management, sales, and beyond, the security industry is not just about cameras and locks; it’s about creating a safer world through innovative technology and skilled professionals.

This conversation also highlights the need for industry-specific education and training programs that can better prepare students for the technical challenges and opportunities in security. Our industry needs talent like Ancel, and FAST is working to equip students with the skills and knowledge of security they need to join our field.?FAST’s work in this space, along with building awareness of the career paths in security is ongoing, and we invite you to connect with us and help spread the word.

Read Full Article - Spotlight on Security's Unsung Heroes: A Conversation with Ancel Ramos (esaweb.org)

Dealer Opportunities in Home Energy Solutions

The smart home and security markets continue to evolve with more and more consumers having connected devices in their homes. Currently, the average U.S. internet household has 17 connected devices, and 45% own at least one core smart home device.

29%

29% of those intending to purchase a smart home device say that it is important that the product works with a security system – this rises to 78% of security system owners.

45%

45% of U.S. internet households own at least one smart home device like a smart thermostat, smart door lock, video doorbell, smart lighting, or a robotic vacuum cleaner. This is up from 29% pre-pandemic.

40%

Nearly 40% of security system owners report owning their security system for two years or less.

The full report, Integration, Automation, and Control for the Smart Home & Security User is a Parks Associates Research Report commissioned by ESA and sponsored by Resideo to deliver the latest facts and trends to help you make informed decisions on capturing new customers through careful business strategy evolutions.

Read Full Article - Dealer Opportunities in Home Energy Solutions (esaweb.org)

And that’s all for this week, but don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram for real-time announcements of all our news content!

Sources: Security Sales & Integration, SecurityInfoWatch.com and ESX - Electronic Security Expo