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A surveillance system with more than 70 cameras helps Providence Point, a senior living community in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, attract more residents. Cameras give Providence Point residents sense of security A surveillance system with more than 70 cameras helps Providence Point, a senior living community in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, attract more residents. Jan 2, 2018 PITTSBURGH — When Providence Point opened in Scott Township in 2009, it forever changed the landscape of senior living in the South Hills region of Pittsburgh. Residents of the community offering independent living patio homes and apartments expect state-of-the-art amenities including an on-site wellness center, day spa and dining options, it’s no surprise giving them a sense of security was also top of mind for Baptist Homes Society , Providence Point’s parent company. Dagostino Electronic Services upgraded the surveillance system at Providence Point, a LifeCare community in Scott Township. “Cameras are, I’ll say, in the top three selling points of what your clients are looking for,” Kevin Santora, Director of Resident Services at Baptist Homes Society, explained. He added, “It’s a major selling point for family members to know that the campus is being watched.” When Providence Point was built, a surveillance system was installed but the technology eventually began to fail. In 2016, Dagostino Electronic Services (DES) was appointed to upgrade the system and installed 53 new indoor and outdoor cameras in public areas around the community. Twenty additional cameras were added more recently. Interior cameras are located in hallways, common areas and other public spaces. Exterior cameras are fixed on the outside of buildings to keep an eye on entrances and exits and parking lots. Baptist Homes Society relied on DES’ team of professionals to design a solution that made sense. An interior camera in a common area at Providence Point, a LifeCare community in Scott Township. DES educated Santora and Providence Point staff on what types of cameras to use and where while staying within privacy regulations set forth by HIPAA. “We do have to be very sensitive to regulations and what you can and can’t put on camera and they’re well aware of that,” Santora recalled. Milestone video monitoring software allows easy access to view the system. With a simple login, managers and department heads have varying levels of access based on their needs. Santora explained, “It is tailored to different department managers who can only see their area but there are key personnel who have access to the whole system and can go back and see what’s on there.” Baptist Homes Society is so pleased with the surveillance system at Providence Point they’re moving forward with plans to add a similar system at Baptist Homes , their other senior living community in Mt. Lebanon. The estimated 60-camera system is expected to be installed in 2018. About Baptist Homes Society Baptist Homes Society was established in 1910 and has remained committed to serving older adults of all faiths for more than 107 years. Now with two diverse senior living communities, Baptist Homes and Providence Point, the organization serves more than 550 seniors every day. Baptist Homes, located in Mt. Lebanon, offers private and semi-private skilled nursing rooms, private personal care suites and a secure dementia unit as well as HUD subsidized independent living. Providence Point, which opened in 2009 in Scott Township, is a LifeCare community and Pittsburgh’s premier retirement address. Now Read These! AI Network Monitoring: Smarter Solutions for Complex Networks READ New PCCD Grant Update: $100,000 Instant Funding for School Safety READ PCCD Grant Deadline: Plan for School Emergency Alerts Ahead of Alyssa’s Law READ

Take a closer look at the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones and explore some of their key features and benefits. See What's New in Next-Generation Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise Phones Take a closer look at the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones and explore some of their key features and benefits. Apr 11, 2023 Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) is a well-known brand in the telecommunications industry, offering a wide range of business communication solutions. One of their most popular products is the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhone series. These DeskPhones are designed to provide high-quality audio and a range of features to meet the needs of modern businesses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones and explore some of their key features and benefits. Design and Build Quality The DeskPhone series from Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise features a sleek, modern design with a variety of color options to match any office decor. The phones are built to withstand the rigors of daily use, with a durable construction that includes high-quality materials and components. The phones have a large, backlit display for easy viewing and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate through the various menus and features. Audio Quality One of the key features of the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones is their exceptional audio quality. The phones use advanced audio technologies to provide clear, crisp sound that's free from distortion and interference. The phones feature high-quality speakers and microphones that deliver excellent sound quality, whether you're on a call or listening to music. Ease of Use The DeskPhone series is designed with ease of use in mind. The phones feature a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to access all of the features and functions. The phones have programmable keys that can be customized to suit your specific needs, and they also support hotkeys for quick access to frequently used functions. Features and Functionality The Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones offer a range of features and functionality to meet the needs of modern businesses. Some of the key features include: Support for SIP and H.323 protocols Hands-free speakerphone mode Caller ID display Call forwarding and transfer Voicemail Conference calling Directory services Headset compatibility These features and more make the Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise DeskPhones a powerful communication tool for businesses of all sizes. Integration with Other Systems The DeskPhone series from Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise is designed to work seamlessly with other communication systems, including PBXs, IP networks, and unified communications platforms. This means that businesses can easily integrate the DeskPhones into their existing communication infrastructure, allowing them to leverage the full power of their communication systems. Sale & Support DES is a long-standing reseller partner of Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise, having deployed call centers, phone systems and data networks throughout the country from our offices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our voice technicians are certified to provide many levels of technical support on your legacy or new Alcatel Lucent phone systems. Now Read These! AI Network Monitoring: Smarter Solutions for Complex Networks READ Juniper Networks & HPE Aruba Merger: Reshaping the Landscape of AI-Driven Networks READ FRIDAY15: AI-Driven Location Services with Juniper Networks READ

A listing of 10 strategic technology implementations that transform the school campus into a safe, sustainable, and educationally advanced environment.  Ten K-12 Technologies Covered by CARES A listing of 10 strategic technology implementations that transform the school campus into a safe, sustainable, and educationally advanced environment.  Feb 15, 2021 In Pennsylvania alone, schools have been allocated close to $2.7 billion in combined CARES funding to cover a slew of continuity operations. Included under the bills is the purchase of hardware and software necessary to propel the K-12 campus into a high-performance operation. While COVID-19 is a once-in-a-century challenge, it has also become a catalyst for a once-in-a-generation transformation of our schools. Here are 10 strategic technology implementations that transform the school campus into a safe, sustainable, and educationally advanced environment.  1. Universal Network Access:  Digital equity matters. Security-driven adaptive wireless access points and remote hotspots enables every student – whether they are in the hallways, classrooms, parking lots, or in their homes – to access the network.   2. Network Efficiency: Is your school’s connectivity sluggish? Wi-Fi 6 optimizes the bandwidth for a multiplicity of IoT devices.  3. Network Management:  Streamline configuration and monitoring with timesaving single-pane-of glass software management.  4. Network Security:  As the network proliferates, so do its vulnerabilities. A multi-faceted cybersecurity plan is critical for safe schools.  5. Network Unification:  Unifying the network through zero-trust provisioning allows devices from all areas - maintenance, security and business systems - to automatically authenticate and provision without sacrificing security and manpower.  6. Secure Cloud Integrations:  Third-party digital applications have become the norm in hybrid instruction. We help you select the right software security tools for these device applications.. 7. Multimedia Integrations:   Bring online resources into the classroom. A solid combination of audiovisual displays and live streaming capabilities creates a rich learning experience.    8. Hybrid Instruction:  Seamlessly bring the classroom to online students. Dynamic tracking cameras and multimedia hardware makes hybrid accessible and uncomplicated to perform.  9. Touchless Entry Management:  Reduce high-touch and high-maintenance areas through touchless access control and automatic door solutions.  10. Building Interoperability: With a smart network, you can extend visibility and control to many building operations, including temperature regulation, room usage and maintenance schedules.  Learn more about DES technology solutions for K-12 at www.descomm.com/k-12 Now Read These! New PCCD Grant Update: $100,000 Instant Funding for School Safety READ Alyssa's Law: Strengthening Emergency Response in Pennsylvania Schools READ Genetec Unifies Security at Central Valley School District READ

Secure and Reliable Network Access SD-WAN, LAN and Wi-Fi design SCHEDULE A DEMO Secure and Reliable Network Access Wi-Fi Network Design A Wi-Fi network is designed to provide optimal coverage and minimize dead spots, which can affect network performance. Wi-Fi networks are also configured with security features, such as encryption and authentication mechanisms, to protect data in transit and prevent unauthorized access to the network. Network performance and bandwidth usage are optimized by considering the number of devices that will be connected and through selecting the appropriate frequency band to avoid interference with other wireless devices. SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) Design A modern approach to connect remote networks and branch offices to a central corporate network is through using software-defined networking technology. The design of an SD-WAN network involves a centralized controller that is responsible for directing network traffic, routing data packets, and monitoring network performance. The network can be configured to prioritize specific types of traffic, such as voice or video, to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. Local Area Network (LAN) Design LAN is a computer network that connects devices within a limited area, such as an office building or campus. LANs can be wired or wireless, with wired networks typically offering higher bandwidth and reliability than wireless networks. The design of a LAN also considers security features, such as access control and authentication mechanisms, to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access to the network. GET IN TOUCH! SUBMIT! Thanks for your interest! We will be in touch with you shortly CTA

DES installed everything from cabling and network infrastructure to a security, phone and wireless system and multimedia and conferencing solutions at supply chain management company KDL's new headquarters south of Pittsburgh. DES delivers connectivity, communications to KDL's new Pittsburgh headquarters DES installed everything from cabling and network infrastructure to a security, phone and wireless system and multimedia and conferencing solutions at supply chain management company KDL's new headquarters south of Pittsburgh. Aug 6, 2018 PITTSBURGH, PA — Keystone Dedicated Logistics (KDL), a transportation management company that helps customers reduce, measure and control expenses, is a trusted partner of Dagostino Electronic Services. After a successful security system install in 2015, KDL looked to DES to help them move their Pittsburgh headquarters to a new location. They purchased their new building, off Interstate 79 in Carnegie, Robinson Township, south of the city, in 2016 and had just a few months to refurbish the space. It was a challenge given the tight timeline. KDL needed everything from cabling and network infrastructure to a security, phone and wireless system to multimedia and conferencing solutions with sound masking. For KDL Executive Vice President Ian Tsai, the decision to partner with a full-service communications and technology integrator like DES just made sense. “We had to go with [a company] that’s an expert in all facets of communications and that’s why we went with Dagostino,” Tsai said. Working with a single integrator for multiple solutions has benefits like convenience and organization too. A large display with traffic and weather information welcomes visitors as they enter KDL. At the start of the project, KDL was appointed a project manager and he served as the main point of contact throughout the job, helping keep things organized and on track. “The project was extremely challenging, but the project manager assured me by walking me through every step along the way,” Tsai said. Having specialized technicians working hand-in-hand with KDL’s technology team was also a huge convenience for KDL and crucial to the project’s success. As visitors walk into KDL’s new office, they’ll notice a large display hanging from the ceiling. It’s the first of several monitors throughout the space and was installed to welcome visitors as well as broadcast information such as weather conditions and traffic reports. The employee lounge at KDL’s headquarters south of Pittsburgh. “We do a lot of face-to-face meetings, so we have a lot of customers coming into town as well as vendor partners who come and visit us,” Tsai explained. “This TV is our welcome sign.” Displays throughout the office serve a variety of other functions. They can be used to display metrics such as the number of phone calls, average phone call length and average wait time to help KDL improve their customer service. Tsai explained, “Every bit of that information will help us enhance our customer service.” They’re also used to enhance the company culture. Tsai will turn on sporting events like the annual NCAA Basketball Tournament, so employees can watch it while they work. There are also three TVs in the employee lounge and a sitting area with comfy couch and an Xbox. “The entire goal is to boost morale and make work fun,” Tsai added. In fact, improving KDL’s company culture was a big factor when designing the new office. The exterior at KDL’s headquarters is under video surveillance 24/7. Wireless internet, for example, had to be accessible from all locations of the building and the system designed and installed by DES now covers the entire 40,000-square-foot space. “DES equipped us with the best equipment. Our employees are extremely happy with the TVs, with the wireless coverage and ultimately that adds to our value of trying to become an employer of choice in the Pittsburgh area,” Tsai said. Security was also a high priority for KDL. Their new building is secluded in a wooded area and the parking lot is large. They wanted a camera system that could monitor the entire exterior. Tsai worked with DES’ engineers to design a solution using Genetec Security Center that addressed his concerns. “We walked the entire lot and took a look at every entrance and exit,” he recalled. “We wanted to find areas where motion could easily be detected and then place cameras there, so we get the best view.” Tsai appreciates the ease of Genetec Security Center and the corresponding app. Through the app, Tsai and his team can view any of the cameras from their phones at any time. When the building is closed, the app sends push alerts if motion is detected or an access point is breached. A diagram of KDL’s servers was created, laminated and hung in the server room. At the completion of the project, KDL was given a binder with equipment user manuals, warranty information and service and support contacts. A diagram of KDL’s servers was also created, laminated and hung in the server room as a courtesy to employees who can easily reference it as needed. Given the tight timeline, the project was a challenge but none-the-less implemented flawlessly. “Everything goes back to the convenience and the level of communication,” Tsai said of DES. “My relationship with the project manager as well with the entire sales team was fantastic,” he continued. “At the end of the day, the organization was just superb. I would highly recommend DES.” KDL Digital Signage KDL Huddle Room KDL Data Rack KDL Offices KDL Huddle Space KDL Offices with Networked Assets KDL COnference Room KDL Phone System KDL Conference Bridge KDL WiFi Access Point Now Read These! WATCH: Power-Up Webinar for Fortinet Fortigate READ AI Network Monitoring: Smarter Solutions for Complex Networks READ Hear the Difference: Transform Your Hybrid Meetings READ

Between now and Nov 2022, the FCC will ban all surveillance camera imports from select Chinese manufacturers. FCC to Ban Hikvision, Dahua Cameras, in all USA Facilities Between now and Nov 2022, the FCC will ban all surveillance camera imports from select Chinese manufacturers. Nov 15, 2021 Between now and Nov 2022, the FCC will ban all surveillance camera imports from select Chinese manufacturers. The legislation, signed into law on Nov 11 by President Biden, follows a series of increasingly strict mandates against these vendors. Initially, the ban in 2019 applied to government agencies. It then expanded to prohibit all solution providers who service government agencies from stocking and providing the blacklisted equipment to other clients. Now, the ban includes the full gamut of public and private sectors. The basis for the original ban was concerns over human rights abuses in mainland China as well as the fear of backdoor vulnerabilities. The blacklisted companies are part-owned by the CCP, the Chinese Communist Party. Since then, the concern between these Chinese IP cameras and American national security has gained traction. The new bill, H.R. 3919 Secure Equipment Act of 2021 requires the FCC to no longer approve or review applications for equipment that pose an unacceptable risk to national security. This follows an earlier FCC intention to ban five specific Chinese manufacturers including Hikvision, Dahua, Huawei, Hytera, and ZTE. In practice, this means that once the FCC adopts the ban – which can be anytime between now and November 11, 2022 – these security cameras will no longer be sold in the USA. Therefore, we strongly caution any facility from installing these cameras in the interim. Once the ban is in effect, there will be minimal support or maintenance, and certainly no camera upgrades. In a bid situation, look carefully at any proposed camera solutions and ensure it does not include the blacklisted vendors. Still to be clarified is whether the FCC will revoke prior authorizations i.e. whether facilities will be mandated to remove any existing Hikvision or Dahua cameras. Additionally, should the FCC go this route, we must find out whether the FCC will reimburse purchases if it decides to revoke existing authorizations. As previously shared here , back in 2018, DES has never partnered with either Hikvison or Dahua. These surveillance cameras have lower-grade quality and are geared to the small-to-medium markets because of their affordability. If your facility does include these vendors, now is the time to plan for an upgrade. DES has a wide toolbox of quality vendors, including Axis, Bosch, and Hanwha, with competitively priced products for these midsize markets. Discover our full range of security solutions! Now Read These! New PCCD Grant Update: $100,000 Instant Funding for School Safety READ PCCD Grant Deadline: Plan for School Emergency Alerts Ahead of Alyssa’s Law READ Alyssa's Law: Strengthening Emergency Response in Pennsylvania Schools READ

Discover a power tool that enables you to streamline operations, enhance troubleshooting capabilities, and optimize network performance in a fraction of the time. Saving Time with Juniper Mist AI Discover a power tool that enables you to streamline operations, enhance troubleshooting capabilities, and optimize network performance in a fraction of the time. May 25, 2023 Juniper Mist AI is a power tool for network administrators, enabling them to streamline operations, enhance troubleshooting capabilities, and optimize network performance in a fraction of the time. Simplified network management Juniper Mist AI offers a cloud-based management platform that provides a centralized view of the network infrastructure. Network administrators can access a single dashboard to configure and monitor network devices, including access points, switches, and routers. This centralized management simplifies network administration tasks, reduces complexity, and improves operational efficiency. Enhanced visibility and analytics Juniper Mist AI leverages AI-driven analytics to provide detailed visibility into network performance, user behavior, and application usage. Network administrators can access real-time and historical data on network health, client experience, and traffic patterns. This information enables administrators to make data-driven decisions, identify and troubleshoot issues quickly, and optimize network resources. Intelligent automation and optimization Juniper Mist AI uses machine learning algorithms to automate network operations and optimize performance. It can dynamically adjust network configurations, such as channel selection and power levels, based on real-time conditions. Network administrators can benefit from automated network optimization, reducing manual intervention and saving time. Proactive problem resolution Juniper Mist AI can detect anomalies and potential issues in the network. It uses AI-powered algorithms to identify deviations from normal network behavior and can proactively alert network administrators to potential problems. This proactive approach helps administrators address issues before they impact users and minimizes downtime. User-centric troubleshooting Juniper Mist AI provides detailed insights into user experience and performance metrics. It can help network administrators troubleshoot user connectivity issues, identify areas of poor coverage, and optimize network configurations to ensure optimal user experience. Mist AI's user-centric approach simplifies troubleshooting, reduces the time spent on problem resolution, and improves user satisfaction. Network optimization and planning Juniper Mist AI offers predictive analytics and modeling capabilities that help network administrators optimize network designs and plan for future growth. Administrators can simulate and evaluate different deployment scenarios, assess the impact of network changes, and make informed decisions about capacity planning and infrastructure expansion. Overall, Juniper Mist AI empowers network administrators by providing advanced visibility, automation, and analytics capabilities. It enables them to efficiently manage, troubleshoot, and optimize the network, resulting in improved performance, better user experience, and reduced operational complexities. Now Read These! AI Network Monitoring: Smarter Solutions for Complex Networks READ Juniper Networks & HPE Aruba Merger: Reshaping the Landscape of AI-Driven Networks READ FRIDAY15: AI-Driven Location Services with Juniper Networks READ

How well do you know your Fortinet Fortigate? We'll power through a top list of shortcuts, automations and configurations so you can get the most out of the Fortinet platform. WATCH: Power-Up Webinar for Fortinet Fortigate How well do you know your Fortinet Fortigate? We'll power through a top list of shortcuts, automations and configurations so you can get the most out of the Fortinet platform. Nov 13, 2024 How well do you know your Fortinet Fortigate? We'll power through a top list of shortcuts, automations and configurations so you can get the most out of the Fortinet platform. Topics include: Best Practices for Your Morning Routine How to use Automation Stitches to sync between different Fortinet components Safely test suspicious threats in the Community Sandbox Use Deep Packet Inspection for suspicious encrypted traffic Virtually patch your OT devices to mitigate vulnerabilities Create dynamic and customized Threat Feeds Take advantage of Fortinet SOC to prioritize alerts Don't miss out on this valuable Power Up training! Now Read These! FCC Launches Cybersecurity Pilot for K-12: What You Need to Know READ Cybersecurity Toolbox READ Streamlining Procurement: How to Utilize PEPPM to Save on the Bid Process READ

When a massive ransomware makes the headlines, our networking geeks are all too eager to huddle in the peanut gallery. What Went Wrong with Colonial Pipeline? When a massive ransomware makes the headlines, our networking geeks are all too eager to huddle in the peanut gallery. Jun 9, 2021 When there’s a cyberattack as massive as the recent $4.4 million ransomware on the Colonial Pipeline, our geeks in the networking department are all too eager to huddle in the peanut gallery and give a blow-by-blow account of “what went wrong”. While details are still murky, they have consolidated the series of unfortunate – yet pitifully preventable – events that caused this colossal vulnerability. Here is their account, along with recommendations on how you can tighten your own cybersecurity. Jeff Wirtz – Systems Engineer Seemingly, the initial trigger was not a cyberattack but a leaked password. The username and password of a former employee was discovered by ransomware hackers, DarkSide. From there, the cybercriminals were able to use the still-activated account of this former employee to access the company’s legacy Virtual Private Network (VPN). We often find that the root of cyber vulnerabilities is the attitude and governance around sensitive information. Many companies do not have a systematic protocol of who has access to which critical data nor how to properly store passwords. Much of this can be mitigated through a cyber-first mentality and continuous employee training. Alex Philips – Systems Engineer Once the cybercriminals were in Colonial’s VPN, it was essentially a wide-open door to their entire network. This vulnerability could have been so easily prevented with Multifactor Authentication (MFA). That is a line of defense that requires anyone not located on company premises to have a secondary means of authenticating their identity before accessing the company network. So, for example, in addition to inputting their username and password, the employee receives a push notification to their company-issued cellphone, and only once that is validated, can they enter the VPN. William Turk – Network Support Engineer Now that Darkside was in, they got to work… The day before the attack, they stole almost 100 GB of data. From what we gather, they then crafted a phishing email that appeared to originate from within Colonial’s network, requesting recipients to download a software upgrade. Rather than being an upgrade, the download was malware which locked down Colonial’s system. DarkSide then threatened to release the trove of stolen data on the internet if the ransom was not paid. We often focus cybersecurity on incoming threats, but don’t put in the same protections for internal communication. A robust email security solution will detect unusual patterns in lateral emails, especially for those emails with .exe file extension or zip files. Cybersecurity is an everchanging game of staying ahead of cybercriminals. Admittedly, it is very difficult to plug up every possible networking leak, but here are some fundamentals that every company should implement. Adopt a cyber-first mindset. Create a Security and Information Governance Team who will systematize and protect your company’s sensitive data. Review the best practices outlined by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Assess your current firewall configurations and start building it out to include Multifactor Authentication and comprehensive email security. Invest in training. Many of our networking partners include employee training modules as part of their solutions. Take advantage of these ready-made learning tools. Your employees are your frontline defense. Interested in a free cybersecurity threat assessment? Contact us today! Now Read These! WATCH: Power-Up Webinar for Fortinet Fortigate READ AI Network Monitoring: Smarter Solutions for Complex Networks READ FCC Launches Cybersecurity Pilot for K-12: What You Need to Know READ

As new threats and challenges emerge, more opportunities evolve for security professionals Differences in Securing Grow Facilities vs. Dispensaries As new threats and challenges emerge, more opportunities evolve for security professionals Nov 21, 2022 The cannabis industry is one of the most challenging and rewarding industries for security technology professionals to serve. Meeting regulatory requirements, and ensuring the security and safety of their people, products, facilities and reputations, all on the budget of a startup business creates both a tremendous challenge and an opportunity for creativity. At present, cannabis is still considered a Schedule 1 Narcotic by the Federal Government under the 1970 Controlled Substance Act. Because of this designation, it makes it near impossible for these companies to receive funding from banks, credit unions and any other financial institution that is Federally insured and regulated. When funding these projects, companies within the cannabis industry are forced to rely heavily on private investors. It is crucial for security technology integrators to find creative, cost-effective ways to meet regulatory requirements, without sacrificing the safety and security of the facilities. In addition to the challenges that the Federal law creates with funding, it also leaves the regulation of this industry up to each individual state. Understanding the expectations of each state’s regulatory body is crucial in creating a successful physical protection system. The cannabis industry desperately needs talented security technology integrators to help them strike the proper balance between compliance, safety, and cost. While funding, regulatory compliance, and the unique threats that this industry faces all create challenges for security professionals, perhaps the biggest challenge is the diversity of the facilities used within this industry. In many instances, you’ll have the opportunity to work with companies that are vertically integrated within the industry, owning both dispensaries, where the products are sold to the public, and cultivation and processing facilities, where the plants are grown, and the products created. Each of these sites carries with them its own unique risks and challenges. Cultivation/Processing Facilities The life cycle of the cannabis industry’s products begins at cultivation/processing facilities. It’s at these sites that the cannabis plants go all the way from seeds to the oils, pills, edibles and vapes that you find in your local dispensary. Most state regulations require the tracking of these plants with RFID technology all the way from seed to sale. That tracking begins here, using barcodes as soon as the seeds are put in the soil. Each state requires 24/7 video surveillance and access control within these sites. Most of these facilities are large-scale indoor agricultural operations covering upwards of 100,000 square feet. The number of endpoints required to secure a space that size under normal circumstances can be massive. However, these facilities offer unique conditions that increase those requirements even further. Many of the grow rooms now utilize vertical vegetation racking systems to maximize the yields they can produce inside the footprint of the facility. Typically, these racks extend from floor to ceiling allowing three to four different levels of shelving for plant cultivation. They are fixed on a track system that allows entire rows to be shifted from side to side to provide cultivators with access to each plant. While this system offers tremendous flexibility and efficiency on the cultivation side, it creates an equally difficult challenge on the surveillance end. In an industry that requires every square inch of the facility to be monitored by surveillance cameras, moving shelves that extend from floor to ceiling makes meeting that regulatory requirement very challenging. A creative solution that many of these facilities are currently using consists of installing a series of fixed dome cameras along the front and rear walls of the grow rooms. As the shelving slides and impedes the view of one of the cameras, the new corridor is covered by the camera that is positioned immediately next to it. Another challenge posed by the plants is that it is difficult to see what individuals working around the plants are doing with their hands. Product diversion by insider threats is quite common in this industry. Even with the substantial number of cameras throughout the facility, the cover that the foliage provides can be used to remove and hide small amounts of product on the employee’s person. Over time these small amounts add up to big losses for the company. One solution that is being evaluated is the use of body-worn cameras. Like the cameras currently used by law enforcement departments across the country, these cameras can be positioned on the employee’s chest allowing everything they are doing with their hands to be monitored and recorded. Video footage can be uploaded to the security system via Wi-Fi. While the size and scope of these facilities can be challenging to secure, they are limited access facilities. This provides security professionals with the benefit of taking an “area security” approach, where the perimeter and entry portals have a much higher level of control. Typically, the grounds are surrounded by fencing and other barriers such as bollards, controlling both vehicle and pedestrian access. Any visitors to the facility are vetted and tracked using electronic visitor management systems. For the most part, only employees, regulatory officials and company vendors will require regular access to these sites. That is not the case for dispensaries that are welcoming customers through their doors every single day. Dispensaries Although dispensaries are much smaller in comparison to cultivation facilities, they offer their own unique challenges. In most states, these facilities are held to the same intense regulatory standards that are present at the grow facilities. However, these sites must maintain a welcoming environment that helps turn individuals that visit their sites into life-long customers. Security measures cannot create a competitive disadvantage for these companies in the marketplace. Consumers want to feel safe when they visit these locations, but they don’t want to feel like they are entering a prison every time they shop. Access to the facilities can be controlled up front using mantraps and video intercoms. This will allow the security staff to identify and vet the individuals before they gain access to the sales floor. From that point on, security technology can be implemented in a way that is both effective and aesthetically pleasing. Cameras can be matched to the color of the ceilings or walls to make them less noticeable. Open floor plans can allow more areas to be covered with fewer devices. Additional precautions must be taken due to the cash-intensive nature of the industry. Because it is well known that these sites accept large amounts of cash every day, they have become frequent targets for robbery. Panic buttons should be hidden throughout the facility, including the front desk, sales floor and back-office spaces. In the event of an armed robbery, the authorities can be quietly notified using this technology. When it comes to dispensary security, it is crucial for integrators to be heavily involved during the design phase. Collaborating with the architect, integrators can identify creative ways to blend the security equipment into the architect’s vision for the space. Partnering with architects that work in this industry can give security integrators the opportunity to get in on these projects from the very beginning and establish more credibility with these companies. Cybersecurity is another element that needs to be considered, especially for medical cannabis facilities. These sites regularly transmit sensitive patient information over their networks. If a bad actor can exploit a vulnerability within that network to gain access to this sensitive data it can create a tremendous financial liability for the company, not to mention potentially compromise its reputation and brand. Each site should have measures in place to secure its network against phishing, ransomware and cyberextortion attacks. In addition, it is vital to provide regular cybersecurity training to company employees so they can identify attacks before they infect the network. As the cannabis industry rapidly expands across the United States, new threats and challenges will inevitably emerge. This will create a tremendous opportunity for security professionals to serve this market. Helping guide them through the creation of a culture of security will allow their companies and the industry to safely continue its upward trajectory for many years to come. Article first published in Security Info Watch Author’s Bio: Ron Stein leads customer engagements for Dagostino Electronic Services, Inc. in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. He specializes in industries and organizations that must meet high standards and regulatory compliance regarding physical and cyber security systems, including Medical Cannabis and Critical Infrastructure. He has worked with cannabis companies for six years, helping them to understand and meet regulatory requirements, and succeed with technology. Now Read These! New PCCD Grant Update: $100,000 Instant Funding for School Safety READ PCCD Grant Deadline: Plan for School Emergency Alerts Ahead of Alyssa’s Law READ Alyssa's Law: Strengthening Emergency Response in Pennsylvania Schools READ

Lighting is not just a standalone feature, but a key component in a larger, integrated approach to building management. Smart Lighting and DES' Vision for Seamless Building Integration Lighting is not just a standalone feature, but a key component in a larger, integrated approach to building management. Jun 25, 2024 At the crux of the DES philosophy around technology is the idea of connectivity. Nothing stands alone. In the realm of building technology, treating lighting as an isolated system is like using a smartphone just to make calls – you're missing out on a world of possibilities. Let's explore how integrating lighting into your broader infrastructure can yield benefits that ripple through your entire building ecosystem, creating a symphony of efficiency where once there was just a simple on/off switch. Thinking about it somewhat engimatically, smart LED fixtures are more than just illumination sources; they're the sensory neurons of your building's central nervous system. By connecting these fixtures to your main network, we're not just controlling light levels – we're creating a web of data collection points that span your entire facility. This network of intelligent lights forms the backbone of a truly responsive building environment. Consider these cross-system possibilities : Occupancy-Based HVAC Control: When Lighting and Climate Work in Symmetry Integrating lighting sensors with your HVAC system creates a duet of efficiency that would certainly enhance your ESG goals. This harmonious relationship ensures that heating and cooling adjust in real-time based on occupancy, turning your building into a living, breathing entity that responds to its inhabitants. It's like your building developed a sixth sense, minus the Bruce Willis cameo. Predictive Maintenance: From Reactive to Proactive By incorporating lighting data into your broader maintenance systems, we transform the entire approach to building upkeep. This predictive model doesn't just prevent surprise bulb outages; it contributes to a comprehensive understanding of your building's health. Envision your maintenance crew evolving from storm chasers to meteorologists, forecasting and preparing for system issues long before clouds appear on the horizon. Space Utilization Insights: Lighting the Way to Smarter Decisions When lighting data is viewed in context with other building systems, it becomes a powerful tool for understanding space utilization. This holistic view allows for informed decisions that go beyond just lighting or layout changes. It can influence everything from janitorial schedules to long-term real estate strategies. Emergency Response Integration: Safety in Critical Moments In emergencies, an integrated lighting system becomes a crucial part of your building's safety infrastructure. By working in concert with access control, surveillance, and communication systems, lighting doesn't just illuminate – it guides, informs, and protects. It's your building's way of saying, "Don't panic, I've got this," in a critical situation. The DES Power of Integration DES' holistic approach to systems integration transforms lighting from a utility into a cornerstone of intelligent building management. Through making connected systems "talk" with each other, we create more efficient, comfortable, and responsive environments. As we continue to advance in this field, the potential for further innovations and efficiencies is boundless, making integrated lighting a smart investment for forward-thinking facility managers and building owners. Now Read These! DES Tech + wtec smartengine = Smart Building Success READ FRIDAY15: Smart Buildings with Karpinski Engineering READ FRIDAY15: Data-Driven Buildings with KODE Labs READ

DES has expanded their multimedia solutions with the prior RoData sales and technical team. Dagostino Electronic Services expands multimedia department DES has expanded their multimedia solutions with the prior RoData sales and technical team. Dec 24, 2014 PITTBURGH — Dagostino Electronic Services is pleased to announce the expansion of their multimedia department. DES has completed many complex audio and video implementations in large venues including the Consol Energy Center, Heinz Field and executive meeting spaces with Allegheny Technologies and Eaton Corporation. DES has expanded their multimedia solutions with the prior RoData sales and technical team. DES is committed to bringing the most innovative multimedia, video, and audio solutions to their new and existing customers. “The addition of the former RoData personnel with expertise in Collaborative Technologies will strengthen DES’s offerings. Our #1 priority to you is Customer Satisfaction, and we do this with service. Our approach of integrating innovative audio and video technologies will result in efficiencies for you to achieve better employee and customer communications not to mention an impact on the bottom line. We look forward to take the next steps to partner for the future.” – Bob Dagostino, President Now Read These! Hear the Difference: Transform Your Hybrid Meetings READ Streamlining Procurement: How to Utilize PEPPM to Save on the Bid Process READ Designing for Technology Seminar at Heinz Field READ