Software House Expands iSTAR Controller Portfolio

  • Aug 26, 2014

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.

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