ISC Quest

• By Megan Weadock
• Mar 27, 2009

In just a few days, tens of thousands of security professionals will descend on Las Vegas to pay homage to an industry that’s still going strong in the face of daunting economic troubles. From what I hear, this year’s ISC West conference and exhibition is shaping up to be an impressive one, with more than 1,000 exhibiting companies in the Public Security & Safety Expo, as well as the Global Expo; new education tracks; and endless networking opportunities.

Although attendance may be a bit down, word is that the ISC West floor will still be packed. I’ve heard of at least a handful of tradeshow regulars that won’t be exhibiting this year, but there will still be plenty to see. And I imagine companies will be competing for end users’ and integrators’ attention more than ever before. One interesting technique I’ve heard about so far comes from Altronix, a designer and manufacturer of low-voltage electronics. During the show, attendees can register to win a $150 Visa cash card by texting the word "POWER" to 30364. Five times during the course of the show, participants will receive a drawing entry number via text. Then all they have to do is visit the Altronix booth and find out if they’ve won.

The revamped ISC Education program touts improved curriculum to face the current needs of each sector of the industry. New tracks—including End-User Solutions; Central Station; and Business Development, Management and Sales—have been added to help attendees bolster growth in tough times. I’ll be attending several educational sessions, including an interesting one titled Covert Video: Your Secret Weapon, at 3 p.m. on April 2. In it, Jake Lahmann, Supercircuits’ vice president of technology, will discuss the role of covert video as part of an overall system to maximize profitability, minimize losses and address the legalities of covert surveillance.

As usual, the SIA New Product Showcase will be another must-see part of the show. This is the 30th year of the showcase, which recognizes the best innovation in the electronic security world. For end users and integrators, the New Product Showcase can be a great opportunity to find out about the newest—and best—products available at the show, without having to wander the floor aimlessly. The SIA awards ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. on April 1, but the winners will be listed at http://www.sianps.com as well if you can’t make it. Last year, the Best in Show award went to NobelPeak Vision Corp.’s TriWave camera. Who will it be for 2009?