Security Gadgets Appealing To Consumers

Jan 1, 2005 12:00 PM, LARRY ANDERSON, Editor

Most of us have computers at home that are every bit as capable and useful as the ones we have at work. For some of us, the PC at home may be even faster and have more capabilities than the one at work.

This widespread democratization of computer technology — making high-end computer capabilities available to the masses — is on the verge of extending into the security industry. Already many of the high-end technologies that entertain us in our home theaters are similar to the high-end technologies that protect our businesses.

The blurring line between home security technologies and the systems for corporate and institutional applications is not new, but merely in the process of getting more blurred. Have you heard about the rich-and-famous person who has a high-end system installed at his mansion that would rival anything being used by the Fortune 500? Stories about security systems for the rich and famous have been around a while, but newer offerings promise to allow the average Joe or Jane to be just as secure.

For example, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this month, several companies introduced consumer technologies geared toward heightened security — some of them priced comfortably within the range of the middle-class consumer. Sony introduced its “all-in-one” network cameras, which incorporate built-in Web servers, network interfaces and built-in microphones with bi-directional audio capabilities at prices beginning at $300. Sony says that these cameras can be used either in the corporate environment or at home. (It's like the way PC suppliers offer almost identical models for home or office use.)

The fast pace of technology developments is boosting the capabilities of both categories of technologies — computers and security systems, which, by the way, themselves are in the process of converging. Technology is also helping to lower price tags, thus making the technology's capabilities available to the masses.

Are we safer for it? Declining crime rates suggest that we are, and for consumers they are really cool toys.

YOUR THOUGHTS

We are looking for reader feedback. E-mail landerson@primediabusiness.com and tell us what you think!

Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2012 Penton Media Inc.

This month in Access Control

• Targeting The Customer
• Electronic Pedigrees
• One Hero Among Many
• Who? What? When? Where? Why?
• More from September's issue