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.

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

Most   Popular

New Products

  • 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.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • 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.