Moving (slowly) toward compatibility

Dec 1, 1997 12:00 PM, G.F. BRYANT JR.

Q - Is there ever going to be true systems integration of security systems, closed-circuit-television systems, access control systems, fire systems and other facility and control functions without the need to replace equipment with expensive hardware?

Mark Castillo, systems analyst, Information Technology Department, County Sanitation Districts of Orange County, Fountain Valley, Calif.

A - The question of true equipment integration is one that has plagued the security industry for as long anyone can remember.

When stand-alone, matrix, intrusion-detection panels multiplexed different types of sensors into a single annunciator, it gave rise to the thought of simply interfacing into access control, closed-circuit television or perhaps even fire detection.

More than a decade ago, when computers began controlling access systems, industry professionals envisioned the eventual integration of various protection subsystems into a synergistic system host compatible industry-wide. Traditionally, if integration were to take place, it would be provided by a particular vendor who funneled a proprietary, "vanilla" solution regardless of the application. Common ground gradually emerged among systems providers. First, smaller personal computer hosts replaced the bulky construction of mini computers. Also, software operating programs became available off-the-shelf. Then, security/access hardware field devices became universally interfaced.

So why can't one vendor's access control system integrate into another's closed-circuit-television system? There are few established product standardization guidelines in the security manufacturing industry, and immediate relief from within does not seem forthcoming. Technology is changing too fast for the industry to keep up. An example is the upcoming introduction of high-definition television (HDTV), which has placed a hold on research and development of the National Television Systems Committee (NTSC) equipment now in use.

Today, a user-friendly, cost-effective approach to systems integration can still appear illusive to the average end-user. But fear not, there are ways to retrofit your existing systems hardware without being forced to continue along the frustrating procurement track that has historically been forced upon you.

With many acquisitions and alliances, improvements are noticeable, but options are still limited and resistance is strong. Presently, there is minimal financial incentive to change the status quo. While the migration from vendor proprietary systems is slow, a transition will eventually take place. Equipment manufacturers, previously motivated by individual marketing agendas, are now offering more choices.

In the computer/information systems industry, an open-architecture approach is available, and standards are compatible on a worldwide scale. The security manufacturing industry is being forced to accept these guidelines in order to survive in a highly competitive global society. Multiple sources, such as IBM -compatible PCs or DEC Alphas, provide powerful servers capable of running Unix, OS2 and Windows 95 and NT operating programs. They offer a smooth migration path from existing proprietary security platforms to open systems that can integrate into existing and future offerings.

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