For security teams, procurement professionals and other key decisionmakers in the light commercial and multifamily property markets, finding a security system that meets the needs of your business can be a challenge, says Maciej Polak, Senior Regional Product Manager for Intrusion Products, Johnson Controls. Here are five ways the latest security technologies can positively impact your business.

Light commercial security systems have evolved to offer features that do much more than just monitor and protect entryways. With smart tech, automation and mobile apps, they now provide efficiencies that over time can have a positive impact on business operations, primarily through saving resources and reducing potential downtime.

1. Instant internet connection for smooth setup

When security panels are installed and operating quickly, it means more productivity and less disruption to business operations. Part of a seamless setup process is connecting panels to the internet quickly and automatically, every time. That’s why the latest light commercial security panels, like the IQ Panels from Johnson Controls, feature options for wireless dual path connectivity, which automatically connect panels to the internet during setup using a local Wi-Fi network or mobile data without an Ethernet cable.

With the ease of wireless setup, teams can install panels where they make the most sense operationally and aesthetically without being limited by cable connections. Having access to mobile data also supports uninterrupted panel connectivity, even if the Wi-Fi network temporarily goes down.

For added convenience, the new IQ Panels offer a built-in SIM card option, which instantly identifies the panels to a mobile network for faster setup. Traditionally, users often need to purchase and maintain separate SIM cards, which can add complexity and costs. Built-in SIM cards eliminate the need to work with a separate vendor to purchase and maintain a card, effectively streamlining the setup and ownership process.

2. Mobile apps for streamlined management

User-friendly mobile apps can help teams streamline end-to-end security system management. Apps like AlarmInstall from Johnson Controls allow security dealers, installers and monitoring companies to remotely monitor and manage the IQ Panel 4 family of intrusion panels, reducing the need for onsite technician visits to your facility. This includes important functions like downloading event logs, running diagnostics and upgrading panel firmware.

With these tasks being completed offsite and with less truck rolls, internal security teams can focus more on their priorities. And they can do so with mobile app convenience, too. With free apps like ConnectAlarm from Johnson Controls, facility teams can remotely arm and disarm their IQ systems, get on-demand visual verification on visitors, and receive alarm and alert push notifications for 24-hour awareness. With this information at their fingertips, busy internal security teams can more easily monitor their properties on a busy schedule, especially those responsible for multiple facilities.

Geofencing is another valuable feature offered through the ConnectAlarm app and the new IQ panels. Geofencing allows teams to create a virtual boundary around a facility. When an employee or resident exits that boundary, their phone automatically reminds them to arm or disarm their security system. This ensures buildings remain secured when not occupied, giving security teams and c-suite folks peace of mind.

3. Powerful, reliable wireless communication

Wireless technology enables the convenience and flexibility of modern, smart security systems. To maximize this convenience and flexibility, the wireless technology must be reliable, operate over a long range, enable connection with a wide range of devices and just as importantly, it must incorporate modern cybersecurity features.

PowerG + wireless technology from Johnson Controls – which comes enrolled on the IQ Panels – offers an industry-leading range of 2 km (1.24 miles) and supports a vast ecosystem of wireless devices, from indoor passive motion infrared (PIR) cameras to detection devices for glass break, freeze control, smoke and heat.

Commercial security teams can also use PowerG + to bring legacy hard-wired security systems up to date with wireless capabilities. By updating legacy technology, users get the flexibility of a wireless system with features like remote alerts and updates, QR codes for easy device enrollment and device battery level reporting.

In addition, PowerG + sensors integrate with new devices like anti-theft fog generators, which are a popular and effective method of burglar deterrent in larger buildings. Whether the sensors are used with new or legacy devices, the powerful wireless security technology is not only important for keeping devices running properly every day, but also for keeping systems and devices up-to-date and future proof, ensuring businesses run smoothly and profitably.

4. Customised data storage options

Data management and security is more important today than ever for business continuity and the overall success of an organisation. It’s also important for security teams to have options for how they want to manage their data – whether in the cloud or on a local server housed at the alarm management company’s facility.

With the Johnson Controls IQ Panels and PowerManage service management platform, which operates on highly strict cybersecurity stands, security teams can choose to store data on a local server or in the cloud. When PowerManage is installed on a secure local server, only users with network access can view the security system data. As a result, PowerManage can reduce the risk of outside threats, including unauthorised access and denial-of-service attacks. Most importantly, it provides the flexibility to manage data in a way that best suits your security and organizational needs.

Furthermore, since there is no minimum installation threshold requirement for security providers to use PowerManage, organisations can choose to work with their local, trusted security providers and installers, regardless of their size.

5. Panel options to suit any application

From office spaces and condos to jewellery stores and flower shops, different types of small commercial and residential spaces require different alarm panels for their specific needs. Some larger commercial spaces may even require multiple panels to accommodate different spaces within a facility. The IQ Panel 4 family provides three panel options to meet a range of preferences, from large, easy-to-use touchscreens to sleek, screenless systems.

• The IQ Panel 4 is a premium security solution featuring an 8-megapixel camera with 120-degree wide angle lens and Flex Tilt for high-quality disarm photos and alarm videos. It includes three microphones with echo cancellation, two-way voice, built-in glass break detector, panel motion and QuadSound speakers on an IQ-compatible base.
• The IQ4 HUB provides all-in-one affordability without sacrificing performance. This panel offers select advanced features like a built-in touchscreen, control of automation devices, music streaming and a photo frame screen saver.
• The IQ4 NS is a best-in-class, screen-free panel that offers affordable smart security. The panel is ideal for customers who prefer a smaller, sleek panel with all the essential security features, as well as the powerful benefits that come with PowerManage integration.

Each IQ Panel model includes ultra-long range and two-way wireless connection with encryption and simple automation for smart home and office features like thermostats, lights and locks.

Johnson Controls IQ Panel 4 family can be integrated with a full range of Johnson Controls accessories, including sensors for security, safety, water, smoke and heat, so you can be confident that you have a complete solution that positively impacts your business operations.

Go to security.jci.com/iq-pm to learn more about securing your bottom line with the Johnson Controls IQ Panels and PowerManage.

For more Johnson Controls news, click here