Matrix Systems Unveils Open Architecture Access Control System

Matrix Systems recently announced the Frontier Universe open architecture access control software for small to enterprise-sized customers.

End users affected by antiquated legacy systems or under-performing manufacturer support structures now have an option because of Universe’s software compatibility with leading subsystem equipment manufacturers including Mercury Security and HID. The resulting system is backed by Matrix Systems’ growing national reseller network.

The feature-rich Frontier Universe system offers options of both Web browser-based or server-based technologies for securing transportation, commercial, education, government, healthcare, industry and other markets.

HID VertX and Mercury Security subsystem equipment that is designed to locally manage secure areas can compatibly report and transmit functions to Frontier Universe’s system level processor. Frontier Universe uses a single server, multiple servers or redundant servers to provide any specified level of system management.

The subsystem components and the head-end processor communicate through the facility’s TCP/IP network or via Web browser-based connectivity. The communication flexibility enables easy integration with third-party manufacturers of access control, time/attendance recording, alarm management, guard tour, visitor management, video cameras/DVR’s/NVR's and other security technology. This “future proofing” against premature obsolescence guarantees that end users can easily add video, biometrics, wireless or any future generations of security technology innovations.

System Installation and implementation is available through the Matrix Systems Certified Dealer Network. Matrix Systems provides resellers with access to engineering/application services and 24/7 customer support based on the company’s 31 years of hands-on experience in access control equipment design, manufacturing, installation, and technical support. In depth training for resellers is available onsite, via Webinars or at Matrix Systems’ Miamisburg training center.

Frontier Universe can accommodate up to 128 card readers per processor. Adding controllers makes the system scalable to any number of doors, card readers and card holders.

Credential production workstations and operator terminals use industry standard PC protocol or thin client activity via the Internet. Frontier Universe offers a complete credential production system including an industry standard signature interface and printer. It supports up to eight simultaneous card formats. Dealers with clients that have excessive periodic badge printing demands, such as colleges during admission periods, can rely on value-added services from Matrix Systems, such as credential production to help meet deadlines.

Unlike other access control systems with separate component features, Frontier Universe provides integrated alarm management options that enable custom-configurations for event-driven site management and response.

Frontier Universe also uses Digital Video Alarm Verification (DVAV) for secondary verification of an activity or non-activity associated with an alarm or system event. Digital Video Management allows end users to link their corporate network or self-design a local or WAN to bring video verification into their security management at a fraction of conventional DVR application costs.

Additionally, any analog, digital or IP camera can link to the Web server hardware because of Frontier Universe’s audio/video synchronization.

Featured

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

  • Empowering and Securing a Mobile Workforce

    What happens when technology lets you work anywhere – but exposes you to security threats everywhere? This is the reality of modern work. No longer tethered to desks, work happens everywhere – in the office, from home, on the road, and in countless locations in between. Read Now

  • TSA Introduces New $45 Fee Option for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID and still want to fly an option to pay a $45 fee to use a modernized alternative identity verification system, TSA Confirm.ID, to establish identity at security checkpoints beginning on February 1, 2026. Read Now

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. 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.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.