
From the Internet and e-mail to iPods and Blackberries, technology has infiltrated every part of life—bringing with it a slew of security features and requirements. Now technology—specifically consumer electronics—is impacting the way multifamily owners and residents approach site security. “Technology allows owners and residents to do things they’ve never done before,” says Ralph Martell, a regional vice president at New York City-based boutique security firm Cambridge Security Services.
Martell says technological advances and consumer electronics allow residents to take control of their own security. For example, residents can log onto their computer at work and set the alarm in their unit. Or, residents and multifamily managers can use Internet-enabled phones to monitor the grounds of their communities from almost anywhere in the world.
“The focus is really on technology and convenience,” says Jason Williams, senior product manager of Lake Forest, Calif.-based Kwikset, which is introducing the SmartCode Signature Series keyless entry deadbolt that residents will be able to control by mobile technology such as cell phones. —Jennifer Popovec
1. Bye-Bye Land Lines:

Network Multifamily Security Corp. has introduced its Multifamily 360, an alarm system that’s compatible with virtually all telecom platforms, including cell phone-only and VoIP home phone systems. For more information, call Network Multifamily at 800-645-2004 or visit www.networkmultifamily.com .
2. Analyze This:

When combined with analog cameras and DVR systems, Bosch Security Systems’ VideoJet X SN adds intelligence to an analog camera-based system. Bosch’s video content analysis software is embedded into the encoders, enabling them to identify loitering, objects left at a scene, and theft. For more information, call Bosch at 800-289-0096 or visit www.boschsecurity.us.
3. In Motion:

Inovonics’ EchoStream EN1261HT, a high-traffic commercial motion detector, is designed to deliver four years of battery life at 200 activations per day. The EN1261HT features a detection range of up to 50 feet and increased immunity to radio frequency interference, vibration, static, lighting, and ambient temperature changes. For more information, call Inovonics at 800-782-2709 or visit www.inovonics.com.
4. Easy Access:

The ILCO 790 contactless electronic lock uses radio frequency identification technology. Residents use a key card, wristband, or frequency operation button to gain access to their units; this single-motion ease of operation is especially beneficial for residents with limited dexterity. Plus, the lock maintains an audit trail of all the credentials used. For more information, call ILCO, a sister brand of SAFLOK, at 877-468-3555 or visit www.ilcolodging.com.
5. Get Carded:

Honeywell’s N-1000 card access system limits entrance into multifamily buildings, making sure that only the people who are supposed to get in are able to do so. The system operates off-line and makes access control decisions independently from a PC or other controlling device. It can accommodate a card database of 25,000 and store 6,600 transactions. For more information, call Honeywell at 800-675-3364 or visit www.honeywell.com.