Four Awards in 2019 – Alula and BAT-Connect Takeover Smart Home Security Market

Alula, the leader in smart security and automation systems for professional installers, has received the 2019 IoT integration award for the BAT-Connect, marking the fourth major industry award for the innovative communicator.

The award was bestowed by industry-leading trade publications CE Pro, Commercial Integrator and Security Sales & Integration during the Total Tech Summit earlier this month, which recognizes technologies and products with breakthrough connectivity and interoperability features for the Internet of Things.

“Internet-enabled electronic devices and systems are flooding the marketplace, and security is no exception,” said Scott Goldfine, editor-in-chief of Security Sales & Integration. “This awards program is unique and exciting in that it salutes those products that are taking the convergence of connected physical and logical security to the next level.”

The BAT-Connect is the successor to the widely-adopted BAT-LTE Communicator, adding home automation capabilities as well as a Cat-M1 cellular, a low-power, low-data technology that maximizes efficiency and offers enhanced coverage for better reach into challenging locations. Cat-M1 is also compatible with 5G, meaning devices won’t be rendered obsolete by the cellular sunset.

This latest award is the fourth time BAT-Connect has been honored this year for innovation. Previous awards include:

  • Security Industry Association (SIA) New Product Showcase Award: In Las Vegas at ISC West 2019, Alula’s BAT-Connect was recognized for best new product in the Residential and Monitoring Solutions category. Since its inception in 1979, the SIA New Product Showcase has been the security industry’s premier awards-based marketing program. In 2019, the 30 judges reviewed over 95 entries from more than 80 companies, presenting awards for technologies covering more than 30 product and service categories.
  • Electronic Security Expo Innovation Award: At the 2019 ESX show, Alula was awarded the Innovation Award in the Intrusion Systems Category for BAT-Connect. This award recognizes outstanding products and services that drive the electronic security and life-safety industry forward.
  • Security Today New Product of the Year Award: This award honors the outstanding product development achievements of security equipment manufacturers whose products are considered to be particularly noteworthy in their ability to improve security. Alula’s BAT-Connect Communicator won in the Intrusion Detection & Prevention Solutions category. Winners received awards and were recognized at GSX in September in Chicago.

“We’re blown away by the immediate interest, rapid adoption and support for the BAT-Connect Communicator,” said Brian McLaughlin, CEO at Alula. “Security dealers are demanding trusted products that allow them to address the ever-evolving smart home security space. Aging installations can cost dealers money to support, limit new revenue opportunities and become a liability when old cellular networks no longer support the innovation that homeowners expect today. With the simple-to-install BAT-Connect, security dealers have an easy upgrade for the nearly 15 million compatible security systems online today.”

About Alula
Alula is the only vertically integrated security and home automation platform purpose-built for today’s independent security and installation professionals. From sensors to hub to network, Alula offers a complete, end-to-end solution and one accountable partner. Today, thousands of partners across North America have nearly 300,000 active locations secured and connected with Alula. Designed for professionals, the Alula platform provides a complete security, automation and video solution for renters, homeowners and commercial installations. Alula is a business-driven platform designed to reduce truck rolls, increase RMR, simplify inventory and put today’s professional providers in control of their business, their customers and their revenue. The Alula platform is available nationwide through distributors that cater to the alarm and integrator industry.

Alula Launches New Touchpad With Live Video, 2-Way Talk Capability

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Alula, a provider of smart security and automation systems for professional installers, announces the release of its Slimline touchpad, which offers in-home interactive control for the Connect+ Hub and the BAT-Connect communicator.

The seven-inch touchpad enables real-time command of intrusion security, video cameras and automation devices, and can easily be mounted on tabletops or walls with a power supply utilizing existing wiring in the home or business, according to the company.

The device features the same look and functionality of the Alula smartphone app, giving end users a single interface whether they’re home or away.

“Customers expect an intuitive, digital interface that offers them complete visibility and control of their security, video and home automation,” says Brian McLaughlin, CEO of Alula. “With the Slimline touchpad, security pros will be able to offer a sleek, beautiful control panel that can be placed anywhere in the house, on the wall or any flat surface.”

The Slimline touchpad controls every aspect of a modern security system, delivering an at-a-glance view of video feeds, Z-Wave devices and intrusion and environmental sensors, according to the company.

When paired with the Alula video doorbell, customers receive a notification when someone rings the bell and can then answer the door on their Slimline touchpad and engage with the visitor.

The device pairs with a BAT-Connect communicator to update legacy security panels that previously featured an old fashioned keypad. The Slimline touchpad is also integrated with Alula’s Connect+, the security video and automation hub that is tailored onsite to serve the unique needs of each customer, or which can arrive fully loaded for optimal ease of installation and use, according to the company.

Alula says Connect+ is the only security hub that incorporates Cat-M1, the low-power, low-data technology that maximizes efficiency of the 4G LTE cellular communication path, offering enhanced coverage for better reach into challenging locations. Cat-M1 will also be compatible with 5G, meaning devices won’t be rendered obsolete by the cellular sunset.

Alula Launches New Touchpad With Live Video, 2-Way Talk Capability

Cloud-to-cloud connection between leading security platforms enables best-of-breed capability sets for alarm and access across commercial real estate portfolios.

BETHESDA, Md., Nov. 5, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Brivo, the global leader in cloud-based physical security solutions, and Alula, the award-winning inventors of the BAT-Connect communicator and the Connect+ intrusion and automation platform, announced today a cloud-to-cloud integration partnership between their respective platforms to provide unified access control and intrusion capabilities for the commercial market.

The newly announced partnership will provide Brivo customers with single-point control and monitoring of key alarm functions and intrusion reporting data. This delivers a true UL-compliant security package and ensures alarm signals are reported from both intrusion and access platforms.

Customers will be able to arm and disarm their Alula-enabled intrusion systems from within the Brivo Onair web UI or the Brivo Onair Mobile Administrator app, available on both iOS and Android. The Onair activity log and reporting tools will also include event data from the intrusion system to provide a single source of truth for system administrators and GSOC operators.

“We see this as an important extension of our platform to provide simply better security to our customers, with a maintenance-free cloud-to-cloud API integration that leaves all the technical details to us so that integrators can install and configure both systems quickly in the field,” said Steve Van Till, President and CEO of Brivo. “What we like about Alula is that, like us, they are a hybrid IP-native product and cloud company that provides extensive connectivity to over 100 of the top independent central stations, which is what we need to cover the needs of our 1,000+ dealers and resellers.”

The breadth and flexibility of Alula’s product line made it a natural fit for the partnership. Between the award-winning Connect+ hub and the newly launched BAT-Connect communicator, Alula offers intrusion and automation solutions for every potential small business scenario, from new installs, upgrades and takeovers, including popular panels from Honeywell and DSC.

“We are extremely excited to partner with Brivo on this important integration in the commercial small business market,” said Brian McLaughlin, CEO of Alula. “Our solutions perfectly complement each other and will greatly simplify employee management services, giving customers the best of both worlds.”

About Alula
Alula is the only security platform that delivers security simplified for independent security dealers and installers and the customers who rely on their service and expertise. Today, thousands of dealers across North America have over 250,000 active locations secured and connected with Alula. Designed for professional security professionals, the Alula platform provides a complete security, alarm, video and automation solution for renters, homeowners and commercial installations. Alula is a business-driven security platform designed to reduce truck rolls, increase RMR, simplify inventory and put dealers in control of their business, their customers and their revenue. The Alula platform is available nationwide through distributors that cater to the alarm and integrator industry. http://www.alula.net

About Brivo
Brivo is the global leader in cloud-based security and property management solutions for commercial and multifamily properties that simplify security interactions for property managers, tenants, employees, and visitors. With over 15 million users and 1,000 authorized dealers, our SaaS platform has been unifying the security experience across access control, mobile credentials, video surveillance, identity federation, visitor management, intercoms, and elevator control since 2002. Hundreds of software partners and end users use our APIs and SDKs to extend our solutions to unique vertical market offerings. More than ten years of SOC audits underscore our commitment to protecting customer privacy and data security. Brivo is privately held and headquartered in Bethesda, MD. http://www.brivo.com

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/brivo-alula-join-forces-integrated-130000585.html

How to install BAT-Connect on a Honeywell Vista

PRE-INSTALL

  • Have these tools on hand: Screwdriver, Wire Stripper, Cordless Drill, Level

ACCOUNT SET-UP

  • Visit AlulaConnect.com
  • Sign in with your Access Code, Username and Password
  • Click “Add Customer Account”
  • Type user’s name and password for the app
  • Click on Account Devices in the menu
  • Click the “Add Hardware” button
  • Type in the MAC and CRC number

PRO-TIP: The MAC and CRC number are found inside the cover of the BAT-Connect.

  • Click on the device serial number
  • Input customer info for your records
  • Type in panel’s Central Station Account Number
  • Add customer phone number for Caller ID
  • Add device location

PRO-TIP: You will see “device appears to be offline” notification until BAT-Connect is installed and activated

  • Add the Master Code to the account

PRO-TIP: Disarm all partitions of the system if they aren’t already. Disarm via Honeywell Keypad

PREPARE THE VISTA PANEL

  • Enter panel programming mode using the installer code (show panel programming)
  • Configure the panel 
  • Exit programming mode
  • Disconnect the Vista battery
  • Unplug the transformer

PRO-TIP: For Vista 21IP panels, the Internal IP/GSM jumper needs to be set to “Off.”

MOUNT BAT-CONNECT TO WALL

  • Place near security panel
  • Mark the holes for drilling
  • Drill in mounting screw

PRO-TIP Be careful not to overtighten the center screw, which is a wall tamper

BAT WIRING

  • Connect black wire to BAT-Connect GND
  • Connect red wire to BAT-Connect 12V
  • Connect green wire to BAT-Connect G IN
  • Connect yellow wire to BAT-Connect Y IN

VISTA WIRING

  • Connect black wire to terminal 4 (negative)
  • Connect red wire to terminal 5 (positive)
  • Connect green wire to terminal 6 (data in)
  • Connect yellow wire to terminal 7 (data out)

 

 

POWER UP VISTA

  • Reconnect the Vista battery
  • Plug in transformer

PRO-TIP: The Vista system will be busy for 50-60 seconds before BAT-Connect automatically programs it. Honeywell keypad will show System Busy and the Version of the panel

  • Keypad will display “DISARMED Ready to Arm”
  • Confirm cellular LED and verify signal strength 

PRO-TIP: A minimum of two signal bar LEDs in recommended

  • Plug in Ethernet
  • Confirm Ethernet LED in on

WI-FI

  • Enable WPS on router 
  • Press and hold WPS button
  • Wait for Wi-Fi LED flashes 

PRO-TIP: If the Wi-Fi LED turns off after 3 minutes, then WPS was not successful.

  • Unplug the ethernet cable
  • After 1-2 minutes, the Wi-Fi LED will turn on

PRO-TIP: If WPS in unavailable, Wi-Fi credentials can be entered in AlulaConnect

  • Reconnect Ethernet cable 
  • Close BAT-Connect cover 
  • Open the Alula app on your phone
  • Arm and Disarm to confirm system is operational
  • Check event log on AlulaConnect to verify Central Station received signals

 

How to install the Alula Video Doorbell

These steps will show you how to replace an existing doorbell with the Alula Video Doorbell

 

What to do before installing the Alula Video Doorbell

  1. You should have the following tools on hand:
    • Voltage meter
    • Wire strippers
    • Cordless drill
    • Screwdriver
    • Pencil or marker
  2. Press the button on the existing doorbell to make sure that it rings and there is power to the doorbell.
  3. Using the voltage meter, test the voltage at the existing doorbell to confirm that it is at least 16 volts. If fewer than 16 volts, you may need to replace the transformer.
  4. Before getting started, shut off the power to the doorbell at the circuit breaker.

How to install the chime for the Alula Video Doorbell

  1. Check whether the home’s chime is a mechanical or electronic chime. If there’s no existing chime, skip to step 17.
  2. Unbox the Alula Video Doorbell and locate the wire harness power kit.
  3. Connect the wire harness power kit to the
    wire harness provided in the box.
  4. Remove the cover from the home’s chime.
  5. Remove the existing chime wires to the terminals labeled “front” and “trans.”

 

PRO-TIP: if you have a backdoor chime, leave it connected as is.
  1. Connect the new wire harness to the chime’s terminals.
  2. Connect the chime’s wire to the wire harness.

  3. Mount the power kit to the chime’s molding.
  4. Close the chime cover.

How to replace an old doorbell with the Alula Video Doorbell

  1. Remove the existing doorbell button with a screwdriver.
  2. Using a pencil or marker, mark the drill points on the leveling plate.
  3. Drill holes at the marked points and insert the plastic anchors.
  4. Depending on the position of the doorbell and the front door, install the provided flat or angle plate and make sure that it is level.
  5. Wire the Alula Video Doorbell to the chime wire using the U-shaped wires. Note: The polarity is not important unless you have a second doorbell elsewhere in the home.

PRO-TIP: If you didn’t have an existing chime, you need to install the fuse.
  1. Install the Alula Video Doorbell to the mounting plate using the two mounting screws provided in the box.
  2. Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker.
PRO-TIP: The Alula Video Doorbell button will start red, then flash blue. If after a minute and a half the button is still red, press and hold the reset button on the front of the Alula Video Doorbell.

How to enroll the Alula Video Doorbell using the Alula App

  1. Download the Alula App from the app store and open it on your phone.
  2. Once the doorbell starts flashing blue, scan the QR code that can be found on both the manual or on the front of the Alula Video Doorbell.
  3. Follow the Install Wizard on the app as it leads you through the enrollment process.
  4. In the app, select the Chime Type for “mechanical,” “electronic” or “none” depending on what kind of chime is in the home.

How to troubleshoot the Alula Video Doorbell

  1. Attach the faceplate for the Alula Video Doorbell using the doorbell screws provided in the box.
PRO-TIP: The doorbell is charging and will not chime until the internal battery is sufficiently charged. If the doorbell doesn’t chime at first, wait 20 minutes and try again.
  1. Ring the Alula Video Doorbell to verify that the interior chime is working.
  2. Open Alula App to view live video through the Alula Video Doorbell. You can also test the two-way audio through the app.

Press Release: Alula Mobile Apps Make Security Simpler and Smarthomes Smarter

Alula Unifies Applications for the Alula Connect+ Alarm Panel Across SmartPhone, Tablet and TouchPad, Making a Single, Simple Secure Experience

HUDSON, WI–(PR WEB)– JUNE, 2018–Alula, the award-winning inventors of the Connect+ Platform, announced today the completion of advanced mobile app integrations that make security and automation simple and more intuitive. With the Alula app, security, smart devices, and video are seamlessly integrated creating a more engaging experience for consumers seeking more from their security solution. The Alula mobile applications will be available on iOS for the iPhone and iPad, and for Android phones, tablets and touchpads running version 4.1 and up.

Consumers can easily control their security system while controlling other devices and build scenes like “lock my doors” and “turn off lights” when arming their security system. In addition, dealers can easily brand the app with their own logo, reinforcing the relationship with their customers and letting users forego a wired wall panel altogether. This app builds on the powerful Connect+ wireless smart security platform from Alula. Security has never been this easy and this powerful.

“For a homeowner with a smartphone and smart home, there really is no difference between automation and security,” said Alula CEO, Brian McLaughlin. “Our goal is to put you at ease by making home security and automation simple and easy. And the professional security dealers who choose Alula can make this happen for homeowners every day.”
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Press Release: Alula Launches SmartHome Now – A Unique Home Builder Solution for Security Dealers

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Free Smart Home Automation for Homeowners, Lowest-Cost Program for Builders, and Easy-to-Convert Monitored Security Sales for Dealers

HUDSON, WI –(PR WEB)—JUNE , 2018—Alula launched its SmartHome Now solution for security dealers who are working with home builders to include smart home automation and monitored security in new home construction. The Alula Smarthome Now solution gives homebuilders the lowest-cost competitive smart home automation platform with upside for new homeowners to add professionally monitored security or additional smart home features from a professional security dealer. Security dealers get an easy conversion opportunity to sell monitored security to hundreds of new customers at once with no additional equipment.

Based on Alula Connect+, the Alula Smarthome Now solution provides the lowest-cost platform for security dealers to connect dozens if not hundreds of new homeowners to professionally monitored security while supporting home builders smart home plans. Pre-installing the Alula Connect+ also allows homebuilders to integrate advance smart home products like Smart Windows and Doors with Pella® Insynctive Technology.
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Press Release: Alula Launches Award-winning Two-Way Voice for Home Security

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HUDSON, WI–(PRWeb – June 18, 2018) – Alula released a new, award-winning two-way voice capability for the Alula Connect+ Platform that reduces installation, maintenance and upgrade costs for security systems in residential and commercial installations. For top security dealers required to offer two-way voice for alarm verification or offering support-at-the-panel for demanding customers, Alula eliminates the need for a separate cellular voice contract and the modification and maintenance that increases cost for dealers and is passed on to their customers.

Security dealers with two-way voice requirements can learn more at ESX Booth # 117 or read on to discover how Alula is lowering the cost of install, setup and support for every security configuration imaginable.
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Press Release: Alula Arms Alexa for Home Security

Alula Connect+ Upgrades Alexa Voice Assistant for Smart Home Security

HUDSON, WI–(PRWeb – JUNE 15, 2018) – Alula released an improved implementation of Alexa Voice Assistant skills for the Alula Connect+ Platform. With Parks Associates reporting over 70 percent of new home security installations including smart home control features, and in home penetration rates of 17% of U.S. households for Amazon Echo, Echo Plus, Dot, Spot and Show with Alexa.

Alula Connects Alexa for Simpler Security
Arming or disarming an alarm system can be an anxiety producing juggling act. With the industry’s fastest-response times and option for full-service security without a keypad, Alula provides voice control through Alexa with the speed and simplicity homeowners expect.
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