News and People, March 2026

Salto XS4 Face: Face-as-a-Credential Solution

Salto, a global leader in electronic access control solutions, continues to advance smart access innovation with Salto XS4 Face, a face recognition access control solution designed to deliver fast, secure, and hands-free access while prioritizing privacy, flexibility, and user experience.

Salto XS4 Face’s face recognition technology is engineered to provide convenient, secure access to Salto access points, requiring only a face as a credential and granting access in under a second. Each user gains access effortlessly through a unique access credential – their face – eliminating the need for physical keys or keycards.

XS4 Face makes access simple and intuitive, while meeting the highest security and privacy requirements. With automated and streamlined hardware and software installation, deployment is faster and easier, removing common installation and operational challenges. Built-in high security and privacy ensure a safe and seamless user experience, allowing users to access spaces quickly, saving time while maintaining a secure environment.

XS4 Face is designed for straightforward deployment, with simplified hardware installation and automated software configuration and commissioning. No third-party software or additional integration is required. The entire solution, including algorithm, hardware, software, and ongoing support, is delivered by Salto and works seamlessly with existing Salto door locks and building infrastructure.

XS4 Face provides an intuitive enrollment service, making onboarding users quick and easy – without the need to download an app. Onboarding can be done from anywhere, on any device. Users do not need to come to a central point to register their faces. Instead, XS4 Face guides them through an easy mobile self-enrollment process, ensuring a frictionless onboarding experience. 

 Salto XS4 Face is designed with privacy at its core. The local, on-premise system does not store any images. When a user approaches the XS4 Face camera, their image is captured and converted into a biometric template for comparison with the gallery of enrolled users. In all cases, the access request image and the resulting biometric template are deleted within 0.3 seconds. Built-in liveness detection helps prevent spoofing attempts that use photos, videos, or masks, ensuring only genuine users gain access.

Powered by Salto’s advanced access control technology, XS4 Face works with existing electronic Salto door locks and building infrastructure. XS4 Face merges convenience and security, ensuring a smooth entry experience every time.

XS4 Face is currently integrated into Salto Space, Salto’s pioneering SVN data-on-card access control.

As part of Salto’s smart access ecosystem, XS4 Face supports multiple credential options, allowing organizations to design access strategies that fit different users, environments, and security requirements: face recognition, mobile or digital keys, RFID keycards or fobs, and PIN codes.

With XS4 Face, Salto delivers a secure, scalable access control solution that balances privacy, convenience, and control as part of a unified smart access ecosystem. For more information, visit https://saltosystems.com/en/solutions/salto-xs4-face/.

 

TACC, ELF, and ALOA Forge Partnership

The Access Control Collective (TACC), the European Locksmith Federation (ELF), and the ALOA Security Professionals Association are partnering to strengthen connections across the physical security ecosystem and support shared learning across roles, disciplines, and regions, both in person and online.

“This partnership represents exactly where our industry is headed — and where it needs to go,” says ALOA President Wayne Winton. “Locksmiths have always been the trusted link between people, doors, and security. What’s changing is the technology around that responsibility. Mechanical skill alone is no longer enough; today’s professionals must also understand electronic access, digital credentials, system design, and long-term lifecycle support. This partnership with The Access Control Collective and the European Locksmith Federation helps ensure our members are not only aware of that shift — but prepared to lead it.”

The partnership offers free participation for ELF and ALOA member locksmiths, allowing them to:

• Connect into The PhySec Collective, TACC’s online community for the global physical security industry.
• Expand exposure to access control, electronic locking, and life safety conversations shaping the market.
• Create opportunities for cross-industry discussions, shared learning, and practical education.
• Help members prepare for the ongoing shift from mechanical to electronic and digital access.

For TACC and its members:

Brings deeper global locksmith expertise into the community

• Strengthens conversations around design, specification, installation, and long term outcomes
• Adds real world perspective that directly influences security decisions
• Ensures locksmith voices remain part of how the future of physical security is shaped

What’s included:

• TACC engagement at ELF and ALOA events.
• Community access for ELF and ALOA members within The PhySec Collective.
• Partner led discussions and shared insight
• Opportunities for co-created content and selective programming
• Private channel for ELF and ALOA members

“While other legacy segments of our industry are losing relevance, locksmiths continue to play a critical role by connecting people, doors, and trust. That role is not diminishing. It is expanding,” says Lee Odess, founder of TACC. “As electronic and digital access accelerate, locksmiths become more essential, not less. This partnership is about giving them a stronger voice, better access to knowledge, and a true seat at the table as our industry evolves.”

Dave O’Toole, president, European Locksmith Federation and International Director, ALOA, adds: “Electronic locking and digital access are reshaping our industry and creating both challenges and opportunities for locksmiths. Through this partnership, our members gain access to a global community, practical insight, and meaningful discussion that supports real skills development and long-term business growth.”

As Odess, O’Toole and Winton point out, the mechanical master key is being replaced by digital alternatives, as end users continue to embrace electronic access control options such as smart deadbolts and wireless locks to mobile credentials and cloud managed access, While this shift may reduce some traditional revenue, they note that it also creates new opportunities in system design, installation, service, and recurring revenue models. Clients increasingly expect their locksmiths to support these solutions, and this partnership helps members meet those expectations with confidence.

“What excites me most is that this collaboration keeps locksmiths at the table as decisions are being made about the future of physical security,” says Winton, who notes that ALOA’s mission has always been education, professionalism, and advancing the trade. “It amplifies real-world experience, practical insight, and the voice of working professionals who install, service, and maintain these systems every day. By expanding global collaboration and opening doors to shared learning across disciplines, we are giving our members tools to grow their skills, expand their businesses, and remain indispensable in a rapidly evolving market. This isn’t about replacing locksmiths – it’s about reinforcing their role — and positioning them for long-term success.”

As part of this partnership, Lee Odess will speak at the ALOA 2026 Convention in June on the key trends reshaping the security and access control industry and what they mean for locksmiths and security professionals.

ELF and ALOA members interested in joining The PhySec Collective can complete this form at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYN2ys2W3Q8AjlRzVkiJem74pHHqJ-r1GnPlaF2jiPfjnI4Q/viewform and will be added shortly after submission. 

 

Camden Expands Column Switch Restroom Control Systems Line

Camden's new CX-WC17 and CX-WC18 line of Restroom Control Systems includes built-in LED annunciation. VR models feature column switches with an integrated touchless sensor, which can also be mechanically activated by pushing on the full-length center actuator. CX-WC18 series feature slim, less intrusive, 4-1/2 inches wide column switches. All models feature heavy duty extruded aluminum construction and CSA compliant activation plates. They are available in both 'Side Load' and 'Top Load' models.

'Top Load' models can be used when there is no obstruction above the installed unit, and a very low-profile (2-1/4"|57mm deep) is desired. They are installed by assembling the Column switch on the wall vertically, using the adjustable leveling screws. 'Side Load' models are designed for confined spaces when there is a physical obstruction such as a hand-dryer above the installed switch, or where the column switch is installed on a narrow curtain wall or spans a lite of glass. The compact and narrow size makes these switches less obtrusive and ideal for restroom privacy control - particularly when multiple switches are mounted together.

Column switches offer greater user convenience and lower installation costs, by providing a single activation touchless device in place of two high/low switches, as required by a growing number of building codes across North America. CX-WC18VR series column switches have been designed to meet the latest compliance requirements of ADA, NBC, CSA, CSBC, OBC, and the California Building Code. They are available in clear aluminum, black, and bronze anodized finishes. 'PS' models now include a pre-wired metal enclosure with the CX-33PS power supply, transformer, and the CX-ED2079 electric strike. A wide range of faceplate graphic options and multilanguage signage is also available.

More info: https://www.camdencontrols.com/products/WC_Restroom_Control_Kits

 

Altronix Supports Hanwha OnCAFE Platform

Altronix has partnered with Hanwha Vision to support the company’s recent launch of its OnCAFE access control system. Altronix’s industry-leading Trove Access and Power Integration products are the preferred power choice for the new Hanwha Vision access control platform. This seamless integration simplifies access system layout and wiring, reducing installation and labor costs. 

“The Altronix partnership with Hanwha Vision further demonstrates our continued commitment to provide security system designers and installers with modern solutions offering the highest levels of performance, cost that better pro efficiency and reliability tect their customers and assets,” said Alan Forman, President of Altronix.

“Hanwha Vision selected Altronix as a partner due to the company’s proactive product development, unmatched technical support, and continued commitment to developing solutions that push access control and power integration forward,” said William Vallera, Product Manager at Hanwha Vision. “Altronix has demonstrated exceptional collaboration and responsiveness. This is why Hanwha Vision views Altronix as more than a supplier. The company is a true engineering ally, driving the next generation of access control, power, and enclosure solutions.”

 

Windstorm Certification for HES  Strikes

HES, an ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions brand, announces a new windstorm certification for the 5000, 5300, 8000, and 8300 Series Electric Strikes. The popular electric strikes now carry an ANSI/SDI 250.13 certified rating, providing greater performance, versatility, and reliability to meet an extended range of door security applications.

The electric strikes have been enhanced through an engineering redesign, enabling them to meet windstorm and impact requirements without modifications to the installation process. With the new windstorm certification, the 5000, 5300, 8000, and 8300 Series can be used in more environments, offering architects, installers, and integrators the confidence that comes with certified protection and long-term durability.

“By fortifying the design and achieving windstorm certification, we’ve expanded the applications for these products, while maintaining the performance and ease of installation that customers have always relied on,” said Ross Nevdahl, HES Product Manager.

Click here for more information on the newly certified 5000, 5300, 8000, and 8300 Series Electric Strikes.

 

Connect ONE Platform Expands Video Verification, Analytics Support

Connected Technologies announces a powerful update to the Connect ONE platform that elevates the intelligence of video surveillance and strengthens integration with onsite security systems through expanded NVR integration.

Video analytics is a game-changer for surveillance, turning cameras into proactive detection of critical events without constant human monitoring or reviewing generic motion triggers. Connect ONE’s Camera Motion & Analytical Event Capture leverages video analytics to automatically detect and capture camera alerts, simplifying the monitoring of single and multiple customer locations. 

Real-time analytics are streamed into Connect ONE where they are logged, generate notifications, and can be viewed in context alongside related intrusion and access control activity. Video-detected events interact with other connected systems, turning on outputs, locking doors, and triggering mass notification for audio alerts and digital signage announcements. Live camera streams remain open while users review activity, control access doors or automation tasks, change user codes, or perform other functions.

Connect ONE’s Camera Motion & Analytical Event Capture features these capabilities:

Video verification links alarms, access control, or other detected events to associated cameras, sending alarm/access events to the NVR for bookmarking, camera preset control, etc.

Video-triggered events are viewed onscreen and alerts sent to users via email or SMS text.

Connect ONE Event Rules can be activated in response to the NVR triggers, such as report logging, notifications to users, system control (arming, disarming, output control, lockdown, etc.). Event rules can also be configured to capture snapshots from cameras for archives and recordkeeping.

Users can create Virtual Zones to represent cameras for logging Motion & Analytical Activity, such as vehicle or person detection. Detection zones may also be mapped on GeoView satellite imagery for quicker location identification.

Embedded NVR health monitoring and status updates strengthen system monitoring and ensure uptime.

“Connect ONE recognizes the importance of analytics and video verification for a safer, holistic security solution,” said Dan Simon, Technical Director, Connected Technologies. “Our goal is to continue to develop and release enhancements that help our partners and users make the most of the latest technology and simplify the management and control of all installed solutions.”

For more information, visit www.connectedtechnologies.us.

 

People in the News

Members of the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) have formally approved the 2026 Board of Directors. The newly elected leadership team includes Board President: Justin Crotzer, dormakaba; 1st Vice President: Mark McRae, Hager Companies; 2nd Vice President: Stacy Deveraux, ASSA ABLOY; and Past President: Tim Weller, Allegion.

“Our new board represents a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to advancing the builders hardware industry,” said Crotzer. “Celebrating BHMA’s 100th anniversary is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come in progressing builders hardware standards. As we enter our new chapter, the new leadership is ready to build on that legacy and continue leading the industry forward.”

BHMA’s new Board President, Justin Crotzer, Senior Vice President of Global Engineering Management at dormakaba, brings more than 15 years of industry experience where he leads product development and serves as a member of the dormakaba North America senior management team. Throughout his career, Crotzer has worked in various progressing engineering capacities in operations, new product development, and site leadership roles. Aside from his new role at BHMA, Crotzer is also a board member in a philanthropic organization, Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity, on the finance committee.

2026 BHMA OFFICERS

President: Justin Crotzer, dormakaba

1st Vice President: Mark McRae, Hager Companies

2nd Vice President: Stacy Deveraux, ASSA ABLOY

Past President: Tim Weller, Allegion

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dick Kreidel, ASSA ABLOY

Scott James, CompX International Inc.

Ernie Mitchell, TownSteel Inc.

Matt Phillips, Allegion

Dan Seymour, Horton Automatics

 

Appleton, Wisconsin –Jeske Hardware Distributors has added Jake Sitarz, of Savage, Minn., to the Jeske sales team as the account manager for the company’s Minnesota and Northern Iowa sales territory. As an account manager, Sitarz will be responsible for servicing accounts and developing relationships with customers throughout Minnesota and Northern Iowa. Sitarz, who started his career with Scherer Bros. Lumber, also worked as a manufacturer’s representative for a composite decking company before joining the Jeske team.

“At Jeske, we want to be more than just another distributor for our customers,” said Ray Powell, national sales manager for Jeske Hardware Distributors. “We want to cultivate long-lasting relationships so we can provide the service and solutions our customers need. Jake’s passion for customer service and building relationships, along with his industry experience, makes him the perfect fit for the territory and the company.”

Jeske Hardware Distributors is a wholesale hardware distributor headquartered in Appleton, Wis. The company sells residential and commercial door locks and hardware to lumberyards, millworks, hardware showrooms and other retailers. Since 1962, the company has partnered with leading hardware brands such as Kwikset, Baldwin and Schlage. The company is also the exclusive wholesale distributor of Stone Harbor Hardware.

 

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has appointed new leadership for its Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) Technical Subcommittee, the group that guides development of the access control communications standard used to improve interoperability among security products.

Constantine Tremouliaris, manager of alliances and standards at ASSA ABLOY Group, has assumed the role of chair, and Jon Uren, president and CEO of Cypress Integration Solutions, is the subcommittee’s new vice chair.

In their roles, Tremouliaris and Uren will oversee an expert group of access control manufacturers, integrators and end users responsible for editing the OSDP standard, approving draft revisions before they go to the SIA Standards Committee, coordinating and reviewing related research and providing technical guidance and interpretation on OSDP issues.

Tremouliaris has been an active contributor to the subcommittee and also serves on SIA’s RISE Steering Committee as the 2026 chair of AcceleRISE. Uren brings more than 16 years of technology and operations leadership experience from his tenure at Cypress Integration Solutions, where he has held roles including vice president and chief operations officer.

Both leaders described their priorities as maintaining transparency and strengthening interoperability within the standard’s development and evolution. Tremouliaris said he aims to support a collaborative approach that keeps OSDP evolving to meet the needs of the security market, while Uren said he wants OSDP to remain a benchmark for secure communication as market demands change.

SIA CEO Don Erickson said the association is proud to welcome the new leaders and expects their expertise to advance efforts to improve interoperability across access control and security products. Erickson also thanked outgoing chair Tony Diodato and outgoing vice chair Steve Rogers for their service.

The OSDP Technical Subcommittee’s work supports the ongoing adoption and refinement of the protocol standard, a key element in secure access control.