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People make choices based on what they value most. It’s the mantra Allen Edwin Homes has lived by for more than 25 years of business in the Michigan and Indiana (Michiana) markets. Now one of the largest homebuilders in Michigan, the building company got its start in 1994 in Kalamazoo and has been cultivating partnerships and serving Michiana ever since.
Among those partnerships is none other than Linear® access and door solutions. For more than a decade, Allen Edwin has turned to Nice Linear garage door operators to provide for their happy homeowners.
Allen Edwin Homes was recently awarded the ‘Linear Loyalty Award’ during the 2021 Nice North America Builder Awards for their commitment to the brand, but they feel it’s the commitment from the brand that’s kept them around all this time.
“We’ve found that Linear represents an excellent blend of quality and value. The Linear garage door openers we’ve installed are proven performers. With little to no warranty issues in the past, we know it to be a great product that offers several valuable features for the money,” said Natalie Sayfie, Allen Edwin’s Digital Marketing Manager.
Among some of those features – Linear garage door operators include bright LED lighting, smartphone app-based controls, battery backup and more. Linear access follows the latest technology trends and evolves with the times to provide easy-installation and easy-to-use experiences for homeowners. Interchangeable heads and rails allow Linear access partners to be flexible and mix and match Linear GDOs — based on each customer’s needs.
Allen Edwin wants the same – providing their homeowners a variety of options to best cater to their customers. With similar missions, it only makes sense the Linear and Allen Edwin partnership is so long-standing. The Linear Loyalty runs deep.
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]]>The post Nice North America Launch Line of Linear® Surveillance Cameras at ISC West 2022 appeared first on Nice/Linear.
]]>CARLSBAD, Calif., March 22, 2022 – Nice North America is set to showcase their brand-new smart and AI-powered intelligent Linear® Surveillance Cameras and Network Video Recorders (NVR) at ISC West 2022. This multi-family cameras and NVRs are designed to seamlessly integrate with Linear Access Control and Telephone Entry systems. Surveillance camera lines are powered by IntelliVision® Video Analytics to provide actionable insights using AI and deep learning-based video analytics on the edge. The NVRs communicate with Linear Access Control and Telephone Entry systems to automatically see video events tied to the corresponding access events helping property or facility managers with proactive notifications. Together, the whole Surveillance system integrates with Linear Access Control and Telephone Entry systems for ease of install and all-in-one support.
“The Linear Surveillance line is the first step in our vision to enhance our access control ecosystem with smart automation capabilities,” said Santhosh Thammi, Vice President of Linear Product Management for Nice North America. “Dealers and property/facility managers now have an integrated solution right out of box.” The Linear Surveillance line is ideal for commercial buildings, multi-dwelling units (MDU), gated communities, city municipalities and K-12 and higher education campuses.
The multi-family surveillance cameras include the IV400 Intelligent AI camera family and the IV200 camera family. The IV400 is a quad core 5MP camera family and utilizes the full suite of IntelliVision analytics including intelligent motion detection, object detection and classification (humans, vehicles, animals), object left/removed, directional line crossing, and intrusion/perimeter watch. The IV200 family is a cost-effective 2MP camera with fixed and varifocal lens options. The IV200 also provides core IntelliVision features such as motion detection, object detection, and object left/removed.
The Linear Surveillance line is part of Nice North America’s expanded, ‘Stronger Together’, portfolio of Access, Security, Control, and Entertainment solutions. Integrators, dealers, and distribution partners benefit from access to greater opportunities with a broader solutions portfolio of integrated smart and connected products.
To learn more about the new Linear Surveillance Products, visit Nice North America at ISC West in Las Vegas from March 22-25, 2022, at Booth 20007. If you’d like to schedule a press meeting with Nice North America, please email Heather Janssen.
About Nice North America
Nice North America designs and manufactures smart home and building automation solutions. Innovating since 1962, the company offers pro-install and DIY smart solutions in perimeter access, gates, barriers, access control, home security and automation, single-app intelligent control, sunshade solutions, whole home entertainment and video distribution for residential, commercial and industrial environments. Complementing its Nice branded solutions, its family of brands includes 2GIG, Abode, ELAN Control Systems, FIBARO, Furman, Gefen, HySecurity, IntelliVision, Linear, Mighty Mule, Numera, Panamax, Proficient Audio and SpeakerCraft. The regional division of Nice is headquartered in Carlsbad, CA with regional R&D, manufacturing centers in Kent, WA and Quebec, Canada; and distribution centers in Phoenix, AZ; Olive Branch, MI; Chicago, IL; and Atlanta, GA. Professional integrators, dealers and distribution partners grow their business with award-winning CEU training and education, technical and field support, and sales and marketing programs with customized brand assets. The company is a proud national sponsor of the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. Program, supporting wounded veterans and their loved ones. For further information, visit www.niceforyou.com/na
©2022, Nice North America LLC. Linear and IntelliVision are registered trademarks of Nice North America LLC. Other brand names and product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks, tradenames, service marks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
Press Contact
Heather Janssen
Communications Specialist, Nice North America
Corporate Contact
Richard Pugnier
Vice President of Marketing, Nice North America
760.517.1688
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]]>The post The Benefits of Bluetooth: How Access Control Readers Increase Security and Convenience appeared first on Nice/Linear.
]]>Ongoing concerns for security along with advancements in wireless and other technologies used in security systems are helping to fuel the growth in the access control market. This is what research firm, MarketsandMarkets, cited in their latest access control market report where analysts predict the market to grow from $8.6 billion (USD) in 2021 to over $13 billion by 2026. This is good news for integrators, dealers and suppliers of access control readers.
While existing prox ID-based readers are proven access control workhorses, what integrators and their customers are learning is that 125 Kilohertz (kHz) prox credentials solutions have experienced documented security vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, hackers have found ways to easily clone prox credentials. To remedy this weakness, the industry started moving to Smart 13.56Mhz credentials and now many are making the move to using smartphones where access control credentials can be replaced with mobile technologies utilizing higher encrypted credentials tied to the smartphone.
This article outlines the multiple advantages integrators can offer their customers when they switch to mobile Bluetooth-based access control solutions. It will show how security can be increased with encrypted Bluetooth credentials, removing the cloning and hacking concerns with prox credentials.
A Growing Access Control Trend
The access control trend in adopting smartphones tracks their evolutionary use. According to Pew Research, 85 percent of Americans now own a smartphone and even a higher percentage (95%) are owned by ages 18 to 49.
Installers are seeing higher customer demand to deploy the most secure technology and access control solutions possible. An estimated 20 percent of all organizations last year made the switch to using mobile credentials for access control. One good reason is that smartphones have inherent credentials protection and built-in convenience factors such as biometrics or personal identification numbers that make them more attractive and secure for access.
Bluetooth-based Solution Benefits
The main reason Bluetooth is so attractive for access control is that can be used with a person’s smartphone, which is already utilized for so many everyday tasks. Familiar and widely applied, Bluetooth technology is recognized by anyone who has set up a smartphone or laptop. A further advantage is that using smartphones eliminates the hassle of remembering keys or a proxy card.
The most significant security benefit realized with Bluetooth and 13.56 MHz credentials is that they are encrypted, making them much harder for hackers to clone. Another advantage is that Bluetooth provides a varying read range option that spans from inches to over 30 feet. Installers can select the read range that best suits the application whether it is to secure a single room or the entry to an entire facility or parking structure.
The type of technology used in mobile access control applications is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This very efficient and high-performance technology is resident in virtually every smart phone and provides ample bandwidth for an encrypted security credential and future access services.
A typical BLE-based access control system is set up via a Bluetooth-enabled reader wired to the access control panel and the credential holder’s smart phone. Installation is very simply handled through the phone’s cellular data network or a secure Wi-Fi connection. An Internet connection is only required during the initial set up and download of the BLE credential, it is not required for a user’s door access with their mobile credentials.
Highly secure BLE credentials are easy to purchase, deploy and use as no new software or additional programming is required. And, many Bluetooth-based readers, such as those from Nice North America’s Linear brand, are panel agnostic, so they can be used on any existing Wiegand-compatible access control panel.
Features to Look For
With many Bluetooth readers to select from, what are the top features to look for that best match customers’ needs today and in the future? One important differentiator offers an easier way to distribute credentials with features that permit users to register only once removing the need for portal accounts or other activation features. By removing these additional information disclosures, privacy concerns are eliminated that have slowed acceptance of mobile access systems.
It is also beneficial to seek out BLE readers that have several options to customize access control in a secured way. For instance, does the associated app use credentials that are stored on the phone or mobile device and not on a separate server? And, does the app allow Bluetooth credentials security to be further enhanced by the phone’s built-in fingerprint scanner/face unlock? These features maximize security when mobile credentials are used. Also, users gain 128-bit AES encryption benefits with 13.56 MHz readers as opposed to legacy prox (125 kHz) cards that transmit card data in plain text, which is not protected by encryption.
Providing a flexible upgrade option for buildings and offices that already have a prox or smart card system, organizations should look for Bluetooth readers that support both BLE and traditional card and fobs. This allows site administrators to migrate users over to more secure Bluetooth credentials at a time that best suits their needs. These readers are also well-suited for new construction facilities enabling administrators to do away with legacy prox credentials and directly adopt BLE/Smart credentials.
Enhanced Security with Mobile Apps
Because 13.56 MHz information is extremely difficult to clone, and by combining the BLE reader solutions with advanced mobile apps now available, users get the added convenience of touchless entry, and the flexibility to have both physical and mobile credentials. These new mobile apps are also able to securely store and deliver mobile credentials to personal devices. Furthermore, some apps provide the ability to customize options to specific end user needs, and store multiple credentials with a color-coded labeling system to distinguish between the credentials. Security and credential protection are also enhanced using a smartphone’s built-in biometric sensors.
Dealers will appreciate the simplified deployment process as there is no portal login or on-boarding process required so a user’s information stays secure and private. In addition, many new apps only require a one-time registration of a user’s cell phone number.
Convenience and Security
Bluetooth readers deliver the ability to use both physical and mobile credentials giving organizations new options and user conveniences they didn’t have before. As a standardized wireless technology solution, Bluetooth readers are gaining popularity because they do not require additional network equipment. Most importantly, the added security afforded by BLE and 13.56 MHz readers and associated credentials allows dealers to meet increasing customer demands for the most secure access control solutions.
For more on Bluetooth access readers and trends, download our free white paper.
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]]>The post White Paper: Touchless Solutions Add Convenience to Access appeared first on Nice/Linear.
]]>Touchless solutions, like the Linear® Bluetooth readers, are growing in demand. Since 2020, roughly more than 20% of all organizations made the switch to using mobile credentials, like Bluetooth readers.
That demand isn’t expected to slow down soon, so it’s important to stay in the loop on the key benefits to Bluetooth and the best ways to install them safely and securely.
Our newest (and free!) white paper touches on these topics and others, like how the access industry has boosted security to protect vulnerable data from getting out to the wrong hands. The white paper covers several topics including:
- Bluetooth demand in the market
- Advantages of Bluetooth-based solutions
- Ease of set up and installation
Click here to download the white paper and get the latest information that can boost your business, by keeping up with the ever-changing world of technology.
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]]>The post What Sets the Linear® Entry Pro Access Control System Apart? appeared first on Nice/Linear.
]]>Dealer Benefits
Some key elements that sets the new Nice Linear EntryPro Telephone Entry apart are, that it is both a telephone entry system and a feature-rich expandable access control system all in one. Incorporating the leading features of our commercial access control system within the EntryPro allows to be utilized in a wider range of applications. This separates it from many competing Telephone Entry systems which either connect to an existing access control or be left as a standalone separately managed disparate system. The EntryPro provides flexible, affordable options, with unparalleled performance and expandability. Your commercial customers will be thrilled to have a LAN/WAN browser-based multi-door access control and telephone entry in an all-in-one solution. With cutting-edge hardware and three different models to manage single or multi-door buildings, the possibilities are endless for commercial access control dealers. Take a look at these key features:
Nice Linear EP-402 Standalone Telephone Entry & Access System
- Packed with in-demand features, the system includes motion sensors, ambient light sensors and an optional HD IP camera
- Includes MegaCode
Receiver, Power Transformer and mounting hardware
- The system is out of the box ready to install for two doors. Plus, it is easily upgradeable to a networked 36 door with the purchase of a license key
- The full color 4.3-inch LED screen features adjustable backlighting and is easy to read in direct sun. It can also be customized with text and images
- Versatile, this model includes 36 door client/server capability with direct connectivity for 2 Doors, 4 Readers and 2 I/O ports
- Flexibility and value: the system is compatible with most popular long-range readers and VoIP adapters.
- Its rugged design features a water-resistant stainless-steel faceplate, which allows for higher reliability function in rain, sleet, and snow
- The system supports up to 64 doors using expansion nodes and licenses enabling expanded access as needed
- Provides internal mounting of our new Mobile Bluetooth readers for a contactless user experience
The Nice Linear EP-736 EntryPro has the same capabilities as the EP-436 but with a larger a 7-inch touch screen display.
End-Users’ Delight
We designed the EntryPro to enable small businesses, gated communities, and those living in multi-dwelling residential buildings to have more reliable access control capabilities. All the features that make this new line easy to sell for dealers are what end users will like as well. Features like our innovative user interface that is easily viewed in all weather conditions – even in direct sunlight so there’s no more struggling to punch in the proper code during the daytime! Plus, EntryPro users will appreciate improvements like crystal clear two-way audio, network stability and enhanced weather-resistant housing and seals.
Recent Improvements
The EntryPro recently underwent some firmware upgrades which are beneficial to both the dealer and consumer. Some key features include:
- Enhanced network communication protocols which greatly improved server-client communications for larger data intensive networks
- Added security features and disabled unnecessary ports (open ports increases susceptibility to hackers gaining access to the system and cyber-attacks)
- Added security updates for common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVE) which is a is a list of entries for publicly known cybersecurity vulnerabilities
If you’re a dealer looking for more information or want to place an order, contact your local Sales Representative. For residents who want a better and secure access control system for your community, find a dealer near you!
https://nortek.wistia.com/medias/qfnpv205nf
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]]>The post Adrian Vega Joins Nice North America as New Regional Sales Manager for its Linear® Access Control Products appeared first on Nice/Linear.
]]>CARLSBAD, Calif., November 2, 2021 – Nice North America today announced that Adrian Vega has joined the company as the new regional sales manager for its Linear® branded access control products that include garage door operators, gate operators, access control panels and credentials, along with radio frequency remote controls. Vega comes to Nice North America with more than 20 years’ experience in the access control industry, and will be responsible for sales support in the Four Corners area of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah as well as Las Vegas, Nevada and El Paso, Texas.
Along with his deep product knowledge, Vega has extensive experience as an access control dealer. He was most recently the branch manager for Southwest Automated Security with demonstrated success in building the company’s customer base and meeting revenue goals.
“I plan to use my diverse knowledge of Linear products and those of our competitors to enhance dealer support and advance the company’s position in the region. One of my strengths is ‘out of the box’ thinking that has been successful in helping customers solve difficult or untraditional problems. I’m eager to join Nice North America and become integral part of the sales team, and am thrilled to share my experience to assist dealers and distributors in my territory,” said Vega.
“There is substantial potential in the Four Corners area for dynamic market growth, and we are elated that an industry veteran such as Adrian has joined the team. His existing relationships and strong product knowledge will be instrumental in expanding dealer support for our secure residential and commercial solutions. I am confident Adrian will help us ensure that Linear-branded products remain the top choice for reliability and value with access control and gate/garage door professionals,” said Joe Schenke, Vice President of Sales at Nice North America.
To reach Vega or any of our Linear Regional Sales Mangers, visit our access sales map.
About Linear
Nice Linear Access Controls, Garage Door Operators, Gate Operators, and Radio Controls are backed by 60 years of pioneering experience in wireless technology, access control systems and high-quality operator, control and system manufacturing. Dealers have come to rely on the full product breadth of the Linear brand as a leading source for the garage door, gate, and access solutions. For further information, please visit: www.Linear-Solutions.com.
About Nice North America
Nice North America LLC is a global leader in smart connected devices and systems for residential and commercial customers, serving the security, access, AI, health & wellness, control, and power/AV markets. Nice North America and its partners have deployed more than 5 million connected systems and over 25 million security and home control sensors and peripherals. Through its family of brands, the company designs solutions for national telecoms, big-box retailers, OEM partners, service providers, dealers, technology integrators and consumers. Headquartered in Carlsbad, Calif., Nice North America has over 50 years of innovation and is dedicated to addressing the lifestyle and business needs of millions of customers every day. For further information, visit niceforyou.com.
©2021, Nice North America LLC. All rights reserved. Linear is a registered trademark of Nice North America LLC. Other brand names and product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks, tradenames, service marks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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