Retrofit Fits The Bill For Outdated Security Technology

The iPhone, around since 2007, has a new model seemingly every year now-a-days. Microsoft is now on its #10 operating system.

But when it comes to access control systems, security video, and intrusion detection – all based primarily on computer and communication, there are numerous systems out there that are older than dirt.

For example, the University of Nevada Reno, which faced a migration challenge, was able to save money on wiring, panels, and readers when upgrading from legacy to a more powerful, user-friendly access system from Amag Technology. The university runs its security through two different departments (housing and main campus). With the retrofit, “we were able to operate independently, yet use one database,” says Chas Stricker, residential life, housing and food services at UN Reno.

There are approximately three dozen Reno buildings that have migrated. “As buildings come up for security review and obtain the funding, they migrate over,” he points out. It was an easy transition, Stricker says. It was just “pulling out [the old] panels and plug in” the retrofit ones.

Overcoming Limitations and End-of-life

Retrofitting or upgrading a legacy system is perfect for those who are facing a security system limitation or end-of-life scenario.

When it comes to an intrusion system, another unique retrofit is at Travis Unified School District in Fairfield, California, with a hybrid intrusion system. It pairs with connected services to manage security at its schools, located within Travis Air Force Base and in neighboring cities and towns.

Now, school district staff members can independently add new employees to the system and remotely monitor activities and events at the schools. Instead of physically going to a site when an alarm sounds, district employees can instead monitor activity as it occurs using a single user interface.

The upgrade “not only simplifies the district’s day-to-day activities, but it also allows us to meet budgetary and operational mandates at the same time,” says David Florez, director of food services, maintenance, transportation and operations for the district. “The customization of our system lets us share responsibilities among several employees, a feature that was at the top of our wish list.”