Security Center Of Excellence

Schneider Electric recently announced that it has completed the strategic transformation to the Buildings Business of TAC while opening the Security Center for Excellence located in Dallas.

I took the tour last week, and what I found is a single source for best-in-class integrated security solutions dedicated to customers with complex, large-scale projects found in multiple locations. The Security Center for Excellence is expected to lend support to national and international companies, as well as governmental agencies. Others that will benefit from this resource are transportation, utilities, oil and gas companies along with other large-scale industries.

“Schneider Electric’s security solutions are flexible,” said Lonnie Laue with TAC. “The solutions also feature easy-to-use interfaces and are designed to leverage IP integration, reducing overall costs.”

The solutions are based on proven technologies, coupled with experience, knowledge and a professional staff. The concept isn’t new, but well worth reinforcing that single-platform solutions for video security, access control, intrusion detection and photo badging all work together as part of the greater system that include alarms, fire and smoke control and emergency notification components.

The impressive part of the CSC is that live demonstrations are the focus points for where can discuss concerns and needs with security professionals. Better yet, if a customer is pressed for time, the company offers virtual demonstrations at the customers’ site through an online connection.

Couple security with complete building management, and both capital/operating expenses can be reduced by providing complete network design along with project management. Entire building management means customers have a single point of contact.

Here’s an interesting case in point concerning building management systems. A few years ago, the state of Utah contracted Schneider Electric services as the state was renovating the state capital. The goal was straightforward --  integrate the beauty of the past at the state house with all the benefits of modern technology, but remaining flexible to meet future needs.

The project worked perfectly. Not only was security a viable partner in the project, but the overall building management system includes monitoring of HVAC, lighting and air circulation. Access control played a key role in the 140 interior and exterior doors. State troopers monitor and manage an integrated CCTV system from a separate control center at the capitol.

It’s impressive work -- truly the heart of the center of excellence.


 

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

New Products

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.