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Articles by Patrick Chown
Leveraging technology for enhanced food safety, traceability
Food recalls are costly and damaging to brand reputation. The meat and poultry industry faces a critical need for robust traceability systems. Ensuring the safety and compliance of food products isn’t just about meeting regulatory standards — it’s about safeguarding public health. Advanced traceability is no longer a luxury but a necessity, as it directly influences the trust consumers place in their food sources.
Unlocking Retail Growth: The Power of Network Analytics for Strategic Insights
May 21, 2024 at 8:40 AM EDT By Patrick Chown, Safe and Sound Security Monopoly919-stock.Adobe.com The retail landscape is transforming, driven by rapid technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors. In this dynamic environment, making informed, data-driven decisions has become a cornerstone of competitive advantage and operational success. Against this backdrop, network analytics emerges as a pivotal tool for retailers.
Peerlogic Releases New AI-Driven Call Summary Technology
Peerlogic has announced a new call summary technology that helps dental front office staff identify the value and priority of missed calls. Peerlogic’s AI looks at the entirety of the call to understand what is important and provides a high-impact, information-rich summary, allowing front office staff to return calls quicker, more efficiently, and personalized to the patient.
Angelalign Advances Orthodontic Care: New Features and Canadian Market Debut
Angelalign Technology Inc., a leader in clear aligner technology with over two decades of history and one million smiles transformed, announces new doctor-driven features along with expansion into the Canadian market. The new features and expansion mark the culmination of the company’s first year serving Orthodontists in North America.
Enhanced Dental Care Anywhere: 3Shape Launches Unite 3rd Generation for Mobile Access
3Shape launches Unite 3rd Generation, enabling dental professionals to access and work with their digital impressions and patient cases anywhere, anytime, via any mobile, tablet (Android, iOS), or web device. This update facilitates seamless and secure cloud storage for all 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scans and patient data. “3Shape Unite 3rd Generation transforms how dental professionals work with patient data.
Desktop Health Announces Flexcera Family Resins Validated for Asiga 3D Printers
Desktop Health—the trusted production-grade medical 3D printing brand of Desktop Metal, Inc. (NYSE: DM)—and Asiga, a leading dental 3D printing brand, have validated Flexcera Smile Ultra+, Flexcera Smile, and Flexcera Base for use on the Asiga 3D printing platform, expanding access to the innovative nanoceramic resin. Asiga can now offer the formulation to thousands of dental labs and practices that use its 3D printers in the United States, United Kingdom, European Economic Area, and Canada.
Cybersecurity in Dentistry: Safeguarding Patient Information in the Digital Age
In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, dental practices increasingly incorporate digital technology. From electronic health records (EHRs) to digital imaging and cloud-based appointment scheduling, the digitization of dentistry has brought about unprecedented efficiency and patient care improvements. However, this shift also introduces a critical challenge: the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive patient data.
Empowering Business Security: The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
In the rapidly evolving security landscape, technology integrators and partners play a crucial role in equipping small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with the tools needed to combat an increasingly complex array of physical security threats. Vandalism, theft, unauthorized access, and external threats pose significant challenges to SMBs, highlighting the critical need for advanced, precise, and swift security solutions.
Enhancing Cold Chain Efficiency: The Role of Advanced Networking Technologies
The cold chain represents a crucial component of the global food logistics network. It ensures that perishable food items maintain quality and safety from the point of origin to the consumer. This process relies heavily on a seamless series of storage and distribution activities, all requiring precise temperature control to prevent spoilage and loss. As the demand for fresh food increases globally, the efficiency and reliability of cold chain logistics have never been more important.
Smart surveillance is elevating security through IoT integration
The importance of advanced security systems cannot be overstated in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. The increasing complexity of threats and the expansion of interconnected devices and systems demand more sophisticated and dynamic approaches to surveillance and security. Enter the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology with traditional security systems, a convergence that promises to revolutionize how we monitor, protect, and interact with our environments.
Innovative Networking Solutions for Efficient Waste Management Operations
For decision-makers in the industry, investing in advanced networking solutions is not just about improving current operations, it is also about positioning their facilities for future success and competitiveness. By Patrick Chown In the contemporary landscape of environmental sustainability, the efficiency of waste management and recycling operations has never been more critical. Communities and industries worldwide increasingly recognize the need to manage waste more effectively and sustainably.
Enhancing Church Security with Advanced Network Solutions
Share this: By Patrick Chown Recently, the need for enhanced security measures in churches has become increasingly apparent. With the rise in incidents affecting places of worship around the world, it’s clear that these sacred spaces are not immune to security threats. Churches are now recognizing the importance of proactive measures to protect their congregations, staff, and assets. In this context, advanced network solutions offer a promising avenue for improving church security.
Revolutionizing Restaurant Operations with Advanced Networking Solutions
The restaurant industry is transforming significantly, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and a competitive market landscape. Restaurants are no longer just about the food – they are about the complete dining experience, which includes ambiance, service speed, and personalized interaction. The need for innovation and efficiency has never been greater in this evolving scenario.
Building Connected Construction Sites: The Role of Network Infrastructure in Modern Construction
The construction industry, long associated with hard hats, concrete, and heavy machinery, has experienced a digital transformation in recent years. Gone are the days when construction sites were primarily mechanical operations; now construction sites are rapidly evolving into technology-driven environments. As construction projects become increasingly complex and the need for efficiency grows, the industry is embracing a range of digital tools and technologies to stay competitive.
Safeguarding the Electronics Supply Chain, Part 2
Editor’s note: The is the second of two parts. The value of robust network security transcends mere defense against threats in today’s hyper-complex electronics supply chain. For one, a secure network translates to enhanced operational efficiency. With fewer disruptions, downtimes, or data breaches, companies can maintain a consistent workflow, ensuring timely production and distribution.
Safeguarding the Electronics Supply Chain, Part 1
Editor’s note: This is the first of two parts. The electronics supply chain supports myriad industries — from telecommunications to healthcare, automotive to aerospace. As innovations such as IoT devices, autonomous vehicles, and smart cities gain momentum, the demand for electronic components escalates, emphasizing the industry’s importance. Within this intricate and expansive network lies an often underemphasized component: network security.
NIBS issues call for presentations for the 2024 Building Science and Technology conference
Building and technology professionals are now welcome to submit presentations for the annual Building Science and Technology (BEST6) conference produced by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS), which will be held on March 18-20, 2024 in Austin, Texas.
How building technology integration, interoperability, and security can align
“This isn’t what I asked for” is a phrase that’s all too common when it comes to an end-state of operational technology (OT) deployments. In many situations, building owners and operators receive drastically different—and often underperforming—solutions than originally planned. Mistakes often occur during the design and deployment phases of a build-out, erasing vital quality improvement, efficiency, and cost savings advantages that the owner counted on.
ABB invests in edge-to-cloud platform innovator Pratexo
ABB, a Zurich-headquartered technology company specializing in electrification and automation, is investing in a strategic partnership with Pratexo, an edge-to-cloud acceleration platform company headquartered in Austin, Texas. ABB will make the minority investment in Pratexo through its venture capital unit, ABB Technology Ventures (ATV), according to an Aug. 22 ABB press release. Financial details of the investment were not disclosed.
ABB invests in edge-to-cloud platform innovator Pratexo
ABB, a Zurich-headquartered technology company specializing in electrification and automation, is investing in a strategic partnership with Pratexo, an edge-to-cloud acceleration platform company headquartered in Austin, Texas. ABB will make the minority investment in Pratexo through its venture capital unit, ABB Technology Ventures (ATV), according to an Aug. 22 ABB press release. Financial details of the investment were not disclosed.
New Wi-Fi standard IEEE 802.11az aims to upgrade building design and user experience
At the core of smart building design is the technology to gain actionable data from user devices, sensors, and systems, many of which are connected via Wi-Fi. Underlying all technologies are standards, which provide a framework for design, implementation, and use.
6 reasons the role of OT master systems integrator is evolving
Operational technology (OT) has long been the focus of building systems management. The role of the OT master systems integrator (MSI) arose to ensure building systems—such as lighting, HVAC, and access controls—worked seamlessly together. However, the workforce has grown smaller as new digital tools have made it easier to manage these concerns in-house without a third-party expert. More than 335,000 MSI jobs existed in 2018, but that number fell shy of 180,000 in 2020.
Revolutionizing Real Estate: PropTech Set to See Impressive Growth into 2033
The real estate and technology sectors should be prepared for significant opportunities and challenges when it comes to implementation of real estate technology in the next decade. The findings of a recent report from research firm Future Market Insights (FMI) predict remarkable growth in the PropTech market at a project compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% between 2023 and 2033. That’s slightly higher than the 7.2% growth rate in the market recorded between 2018 and 2022.
Can your network infrastructure handle your smart building?
When you think of smart buildings, you might envision technologies like IoT devices, automation, and artificial intelligence. But behind every functional smart building there is a robust network infrastructure that makes connections seamless and data transfers and technology integration possible. A weak or unreliable network can disrupt the operation of the building’s integrated systems.
Can your network infrastructure handle your smart building?
When you think of smart buildings, you might envision technologies like IoT devices, automation, and artificial intelligence. But behind every functional smart building there is a robust network infrastructure that makes connections seamless and data transfers and technology integration possible. A weak or unreliable network can disrupt the operation of the building’s integrated systems.
Open-source technologies that cut costs and eliminate vendor lock-in
A building management system (BMS) can greatly streamline oversight of day-to-day operations of the many connected systems—lighting, electrical, HVAC, security, life safety—of a smart building. Building owners and operators looking to reduce their technology spend can consider the use of open-source smart building management platforms as an alternative to commercial alternatives.
Open-source technologies that cut costs and eliminate vendor lock-in
A building management system (BMS) can greatly streamline oversight of day-to-day operations of the many connected systems—lighting, electrical, HVAC, security, life safety—of a smart building. Building owners and operators looking to reduce their technology spend can consider the use of open-source smart building management platforms as an alternative to commercial alternatives.
PoE benefits and applications for smart buildings
In the rapidly evolving technology landscape, Power over Ethernet (PoE) has emerged as a game-changer, transforming the management of cables, power delivery, and network reliability in smart buildings. While many people associate Bluetooth with smart building systems, they often overlook the advantages and widespread applications of PoE. PoE enables the simultaneous transmission of data and electrical power through Ethernet cables.
EBTRON joins the CABA board of directors
The Continental Building Automation Association (CABA) has named EBTRON to the CABA board of directors. The South Loris, S.C.–based company is a pioneer in thermal dispersion airflow measurement and control technology that delivers accurate, repeatable, and long-term stability for years of reliable operation in the built environment. EBTRON will be represented on the CABA board by its director of business development, Darryl DeAngelis, who is one of the company’s engineers and technology leaders.
Op-Ed: The risks and costs of cyberattacks
May 10, 2023 Op-Eds, Safety and Security Written by By Patrick Chown, owner and president of The Network Installers With the increasing digitalization of maritime operations, the industry is becoming more connected than ever before. While technological advancements have led to significant improvements in efficiency and safety, they have also introduced new vulnerabilities that put the marine industry at risk of cyberattacks.
Digital Diligence: Best Practices to Protect Your Self-Storage Business From Cybercrime
Self-storage operators give the physical security of their properties plenty of attention, and rightfully so; however, they should also be giving thought to cybersecurity threats. The reality is businesses of all types and sizes should be concerned about cyberattacks. Just think about all of the digital tools you use to operate your self-storage facility, such as management software and a website. These handle everything from customer contact and payment information to your own financial records.
Planning and installing a network in a government facility
Modern digital tools, powered by IT, have become an integral part of our daily lives. These technologies have changed how we perform various tasks such as accessing information, planning trips, conducting business and communicating with others. The internet and the technologies powered by it have radically transformed how we work and live, becoming an essential part of human existence. The influence of these digital tools is not just limited to interpersonal and inter-organizational transactions.
Maximizing Your Digital Network Uptime
The use of digital tools is essential to navigating business functions in modern organizations. Communication infrastructure, such as ethernet cables, switches, and Wi-Fi routers enable organizations to use these digital tools. For this reason, it is important to have a robust communication infrastructure to access the digital infrastructure that supports the functioning of your organization. Network uptime is one of the key indicators used to measure the performance of your network infrastructure.
Cybersecurity: Protecting Yourself and Your Customers in the Digital Age
The digital age has brought about many benefits for car rental companies, including the ability to easily manage reservations, track vehicles, and communicate with customers. However, with the increased use of technology comes an increased risk of cyber threats. You need to understand the different types of cyber threats you may face and take measures to protect yourselves and your customers. Types of Cyber Threats One of the main cyber threats faced by car rental companies is data breaches.
Security Systems 101
Security is a top priority for facility managers in commercial buildings. Whether you’re looking to install a security system for the first time or to upgrade your existing system, it’s important to do your research and find a solution that meets the needs of your facility. Installing a security system can be a daunting task, but it is a necessary step to ensure the safety and security of your property, employees, and visitors.
Robust Networks to Power Food Automation
Gone are the days when physical labor was involved in manufacturing and packaging food products. Today, food manufacturing has become a completely automated process. Feed the raw materials at one end, get the packaged product ready to be shipped at the other. The shift toward automation has radically changed the infrastructure requirements for food manufacturers. You need software to control and manage automation in your facility. You need network-enabled machines to perform automated tasks.
Tips to Build Strong Communication Networks in Automated Manufacturing Facilities
Strong communication networks are essential for the success of any organization, especially manufacturing facilities with robots. Robots and other automated systems need to send information to software, and robots require instructions from software to perform their tasks. Communication networks enable the smooth flow of information between machines and software residing on a central server. Here are some best practices to keep in mind while building and maintaining them.
Wired or Wireless Networks: What Suits Your Facilities?
The use of internet and digital tools has become a ubiquitous part of business activities across all industries. From emails to cloud-based SaaS tools, digital technology drives the modern business environment. Even the manufacturing sector relies on IIoT technology and digital tools like manufacturing execution systems (MES) to run everyday operations. All modern facilities have to provide communication networks to facilitate this shift in how industries operate.
Managing Network Connections In Harsh Industrial Environments
By Patrick Chown Many industrial processes necessitate working in harsh environments, such as in chemical plants, mines, plants in locations with extreme weather, and more. In these environments, regular operations and asset management can be difficult, and specialized equipment and processes are needed to handle operating conditions.
Beyond our years: The PAE Living Building is the 2022 Smart Building of the Year
Amid a mounting climate crisis and evolving workforce, commercial buildings can no longer rely on their lease rates or skyline presence as a determinant of success. They need to operate efficiently, improve their performance continually, and attract and retain tenants. They need to be smart. Smart buildings elude a simple, encompassing definition, but the most effective examples share common traits.
Cybersecurity considerations for federal agency buildings
Discussions on cybersecurity mostly revolve around protecting digital infrastructure and various software systems. Physical infrastructure and its security is often overlooked. But the physical security of buildings that host the digital infrastructure and people are equally important. Foreign governments, terrorist outfits and malicious actors put in regular efforts to undermine and destabilize our government and its infrastructure.
Best Practices for Automating Access Control in Manufacturing Plants
Summary Maintaining and managing a secure facility is important to safeguard manufacturing assets. Access control is one of the basic security measures you need to undertake. It gives authorized personnel access to different resources in the plant and prevents unauthorized access. Simple gates and barriers with security personnel were used as primitive access control methods. Today a slew of software and hardware technology is available for setting up access control in manufacturing facilities.
3 Reasons AV Integrators Should Prioritize Cybersecurity
Since the pandemic, the phrase “digital transformation” has evolved from being a trendy term to being a critical step for businesses to remain competitive. Today, close to 90% of business leaders think that digital transformation will affect their industry. As a result, close to 60% of companies have prioritized digital transformation — and commercial AV integrators are no exception.
Optimizing Structured Cabling Systems in Food Distribution Centers
Food distribution logistics in the United States have been challenging for many years, with inefficiencies in the system often leading to pain points for both food distributors and consumers. Big data is available to lend a helping hand, from warehouse scanning to virtual inventories. And with advances in technology, data can now be used to improve operations and make the system more efficient. How is structured cabling used in food distribution?
Designing the network infrastructure for smart buildings
Smart buildings are becoming a regular feature in the world around us, in settings that range from high-rise offices to high-tech manufacturing facilities. The analytics offered by the sensors and systems of a smart building offer plenty of value to business owners and managers – but in order to provide the most value, there are some network design principles to keep in mind.
5 Benefits of Video Management Software for Manufactures
The operation of any manufacturing facility can be complex regardless of the industry and geographical location. Fortunately, for companies that want to maintain a safe work environment video surveillance makes the daunting task more manageable. Video surveillance technology has come a long way from just being able to capture images. This is largely due to the development and integration of Video Management Software (VMS).
How Security Cameras Can Be Adapted to Create Checkout-Free Store Experiences
Visit a major retail store recently? Chances are you noticed some changes at the checkout line. There were probably more self-checkout choices and fewer cashiers. Retail technology is continually evolving in order to boost efficiency and save money for merchants.
3 effective ways video surveillance can reduce cargo theft
Patrick Chown is the owner and president of Safe and Sound Security. With a commitment to exceptional service and nationwide coverage, Safe and Sound Security specializes in integrating security cameras, access control, burglar alarms, and structured cabling. During the pandemic most people assumed that we would see a reduction in crime due to the health crisis and subsequent lockdowns. In fact, in 2020, cargo thefts occurred at a rate 23% higher than in 2019.
Patrick Chown
A look at how video surveillance solutions can protect warehouses, logistics hubs, and other industrial sites' assets. A look at how video surveillance solutions can protect warehouses, logistics hubs, and other industrial sites' assets.
Navigating Cannabis Regulations
Recreational use of Cannabis is now legal in 16 states and allowed for medical purposes in 36 states. The Cannabis industry is growing rapidly, with annual market values expected to reach $30 billion by 2025. Still, as with any sector experiencing rapid growth, security challenges remain a top concern for the Cannabis industry. In the United States, the Cannabis industry is not without difficulties.
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