Software House Expands iSTAR Controller Portfolio

Software House, part of the Security Products business unit of Tyco, introduces iSTAR Ultra, a 32-reader network door controller built on the Linux platform for improved security and scalability.

Software House Expands iSTAR Controller PortfolioiSTAR Ultra uniquely combines support for traditional hard-wired access control doors with support for wireless locksets, all in the same controller. Up to 32 readers are supported by iSTAR Ultra, of which 16 may come from the Access Control Module’s (ACM) I/O units; the rest can be made up of ASSA ABLOY Aperio wireless lock sets and devices. iSTAR Ultra communicates with the latest version of C•CURE 9000 security and event management system for a complete access control solution.

In addition to the increased reader capacity, iSTAR Ultra also provides a higher capacity of inputs and outputs per controller – near double the amount supported by iSTAR Pro today.

Ideal for enterprise and government applications, iSTAR Ultra features dual GigE network ports and FIPS 197 certified AES 256 network encryption. Custom key management, embedded Denial-of-Service protection, DNS support, and an embedded web diagnostics tool provide customers with the ultimate in network security and reliability.

iSTAR Ultra’s unique lock power management features, including socketed output relays, eliminate the need for separate lock power interface boards. Dual lock power feeds on each ACM can be used for selection of individual lock voltage (12V/24V, for example), or for battery and non battery-backed power sources to comply with certain local life safety codes.

“iSTAR Ultra moves the Software House controller technology into a true appliance-based platform, providing higher levels of security,” said Jason Ouellette, access control product line Director for Tyco Security Products. “iSTAR Ultra also provides lock power management built into the controller to help decrease overall installation costs while increasing the capacity of the controller. This controller is critical as the foundation of our embedded architecture, which will enable cloud-based access control solutions in the future.”

With its wall-mount and rack-mount options, iSTAR Ultra offers flexibility for installations, helping to conserve valuable server room space. An ideal choice for areas that have many readers in close proximity to the panel, iSTAR Ultra also supports up to 16 RS-485 ports, allowing installers to maximize distances to each door.

Featured

  • 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

  • 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

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities

  • 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.