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ENTERPRISE SECURITY MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE
Every enterprise is different. Therefore, enterprise-level security management software must be highly adaptable. It must be feature
rich and powerful. It must be useable by different operators at different locations. It must be scalable to meet the needs of any
type of enterprise, whether large, small, single-site, dispersed, multi-lingual, multi-national, top-down controlled, or decentralized.
And, it must be truly robust, else it cannot be relied upon for mission critical functions.
Software that achieves enterprise-level status is not accidentally developed. Rather, it is carefully designed with diligent attention to
detail, perfected by real-world experience, and continuously updated and enhanced.
EnterpriseSMS is enterprise-level security management software. It was, and continues to be, carefully designed. It has been perfected,
over the last twelve years, by real-world experience. It is regularly updated and enhanced. Regardless of the size or scale of your
enterprise, there is an EnterpriseSMS package designed for you.
ARCHITECTURE OVERVIEW
EnterpriseSMS is adaptable by design. Based on client-server and server-server computing models, EnterpriseSMS' software modules are divided into four categories referred to as Database Support, Command and Control, Subsystem Interface, and User Stations.
Our Definition: A Software Module is a collection of computer programs and data files that operate as an individual entity and
provide a well defined set of capabilities.
Our Definition: A module Category is a collection of software modules that, at a broad level, perform similar functions.
Each category contains one or more software modules, which provide necessary functionality to an EnterpriseSMS system.
EnterpriseSMS provides an "a la carte" menu of modules for use in the construction of a unique security management system for your enterprise.
ENTERPRISESMS MODULE Categories
EnterpriseSMS's division into independent, intelligent modules with well defined capabilities organized along these lines makes
integration of complex systems easy. Just install the proper modules to meet your requirements wherever you need them.
Database Support Module Category (DSM): Provides intelligent
control over all data affecting the operation of EnterpriseSMS. This includes the Oracle® database and the programs which connect other EnterpriseSMS software
modules to it. It provides for the distribution of data to other modules. The DSM is an essential component of all
EnterpriseSMS systems, and is bundled with the appropriate Command and Control module. Some types of systems, such
as redundant or host – subhost systems, require multiple Database Support Modules (DSMs).
Command and Control Module Category (CCM): Provides
intelligent control over the processing of transactions within EnterpriseSMS. Two modules make up this category: The
Alarm Management Module (AMM) processes transactions, and the Command and Control Module (CCM) manages the relationship between multiple AMMs, if present. Redundant
and Host-Subhost systems require the CCM, while a basic system requires the appropriate DSM and AMM only. The basic product packages, System 1, System 5, and System 10,
bundle an appropriate DSM and AMM, along with other essential components, to form a complete basic system, which may then be further customized to meet specific user
requirements. The DSM and AMM of a System 1, System 5 or basic System 10 must reside on the same server.
Our Definition: Host or Host Processes are names applied to the DSM and AMM of any system.
Subsystem Interface Module Category (SIM): Provides
intelligent control over other subsystems, such as access control field panels. Specific SIMs, known as Access SIMs, are
deployed for each type of supported field panel. Another type of SIM, the MonitorSIM, receives and interprets events, such
as alarms or activity, from data gathering panels or activity logging printers. The System 1 and System 5 packages include
one SIM that must be installed on the same server as the host processes. The System 10 includes one SIM that must be
installed on the same server as the host processes, but may control multiple additional SIMs running on other servers or workstations.
User Station Category: Supports user interaction with the
EnterpriseSMS system. Each module provide a specific, distinct set of capabilities to its user through its user
interface. All EnterpriseSMS user interfaces are graphical; therefore, EnterpriseSMS is said to have a graphical user
interface (GUI based). Through different user interfaces, each module provides different capabilities to its user. They are
therefore referred to as Stations (as in duty station) instead of modules according to the user interface each provides.
Our Definition: A User Station is a software module that supports a graphical user interface (GUI).
User stations, along with their typical users, include:
- Data Control Station (DCS). Used by system administators to manage the data stored in the Oracle database.
- Operator Command Station (OCS). Used by system operators in monitoring centers or duty stations to
manage alarm events and issue commands to the system.
- Integrated Badging Station (IBS). Provides the personnel department or badging operator tools for the creation,
production, and management of badges.
- Activity Monitoring Station (AMS). Presents a display of user-specified events to supervisors, managers, and
maintenance personnel.
- Visitor Registration Station (VRS). Supports security or information personnel at visitor entrances or desks as
they register and manage visitors and employees to a facility.
- Image Verification Station (IVS). Displays the image of a badge holder when their badge is used at a
user-specified location. Facilities requiring special attention to security often establish security points where the IVS is used.
- Status Monitoring Station (SMS). Allows maintenance personnel and field technicians to continuously monitor
detailed state activity at one, many or all devices controlled by the system.
- Universal User Station (UUS). Combines the two most common stations, the DCS and the OCS, into a single
package. It is often easier to configure systems using the UUS, as the two are often deployed together.
BUILDING SYSTEMS FROM MODULES AND STATIONS
EnterpriseSMS may be adapted to many different purposes by the choices of software installed on different workstations and servers
throughout an enterprise. Basic System 1, System 5, and System 10 systems include single OCS and DCS user station modules on the
same server where the DSM, AMM, SIM are installed. Each basic System 1, System 5, or System 10 product package contains the
essential elements for a complete working system. The System 1, System 5, and System 10 differ in the rules that apply to expanding
the systems and the software capabilities activated in the AMM and other software modules.
Any software module may be installed on any workstation or server properly equipped to meet its needs. Thus, adapting EnterpriseSMS
to an enterprise's specific set of requirements amounts to nothing more than:
- Choosing the starting point (System 1, System 5, or System 10);
- Determining what types of subsystems require interface to the system, how the interfaces will be implemented, and where the interface points will be located; and,
- Choosing the locations where different users will require access to the system, along with the types of stations required at those points to support their activities.
BROAD SPECTRUM SECURITY SOLUTIONS
EnterpriseSMS provides a broad-spectrum solution to your security needs. The same software is scaleable from a very few readers or
monitored points in the smallest systems to systems of tremendous size without changing the base software. The same software can be
used for single-computer small systems as well as for large, distributed systems in support of complex organizations. Its
comprehensive range of capabilities make it suitable for simple systems up to large campuses, airports, military bases, or industrial
complexes requiring automation of complex functions. Its extensive partitioning capability allows it to support complex stakeholder relationships between system users.
EnterpriseSMS was created network ready. It was designed for integration, and offers sophisticated options that place it first
among available choices for integrated system solutions. It is also superbly suited for a single computer system.
CAN SUCH A POWERFUL SYSTEM SERVE SMALL ENTERPRISES?
Yes. EnterpriseSMS is available in two basic configurations. The System 1 meets small security requirements, the System 5 meets
small to medium security requirements, and the System 10 meets complex configuration needs. Built from identical building blocks, the
three system packages differ only by the license and associated software key which activates the system. This means that small
system owners are not excluded from the reliabilty and functionality of large systems by either price or artificial packaging constraints.
NETWORKING
EnterpriseSMS was designed for networking from its inception. Developed around Ethernet and TCP/IP, EnterpriseSMS has long had
the technological lead in networking. User Stations and SIMs may connect to EnterpriseSMS host processes using Ethernet or Token
Ring LANs using TCP/IP over intervening WANs, MANs, routers, and other links are supported so long as they are transparent.
All parts of the system are compatible with ISO 802.3 and the TCP/IP protocol suite. The system is X.25 compatible with
appropriate PADs. EnterpriseSMS is therefore a true enterprise-wide system. It can be deployed either on its own, dedicated network, or on the corporate network.
Our Definition: Local Modules are local to one another if they are co-located (installed) on the same computer.
Our Definition: Remote Modules are remote to one another if they are not co-located (installed) on the same computer. There is no
requirement that a remote module be able to interact with local module for proper system operation.
Our Definition: Network Connected Modules are network connected to one another if they are remote and able to communicate over a
supported network connection.
Our Definition: Connected Modules are modules that are able to communicate with one another.
SIMS AND SUPPORTED FIELD CONTROLLERS
Subsystem Interface Modules (SIMs) interface EnterpriseSMS with independent subsystems. Such subsystems could be collections of
intelligent field controllers of an access control system, or perhaps an event generating system being monitored. The basic system
licenses include a single local SIM. Additional remote SIMs may be added to a System 10 as required to meet system requirements.
ACCESS SIMS AND FIELD CONTROLLERS
The Access Subsystem Interface Module (SIM) sends messages to and receives messages from device field controllers. From those
received messages, the SIM creates messages able to be processed and logged by EnterpriseSMS. When system operators
process transactions that change the system operating environment, the SIM translates those messages and relays them to the field controllers, which execute the changes.
Each SIM also maintains a copy of the databases required by the field controllers it hosts. When a field controller makes a host
request for information, that request is serviced by the SIM without host involvement. This scheme contributes to the system's high
transaction performance. If the SIM cannot service the request, it references the host for the requested data. If found, the SIM
updates itself, and services the controller's request.
Most EnterpriseSMS systems support single or multiple loops of field controllers using a single SIM running on the server. However, should
configuration or throughput reasons demand, Remote SIMs, attached to an EnterpriseSMS System 10, may be located at remote
locations, servicing requests from controllers located at that location.
In short, the configurational flexibiliy of the Subsystem Interface Modules is one of the primary reasons why EnterpriseSMS can meet
both the smallest and the largest security needs, and why a single EnterpriseSMS system may control a global network of devices.
Access SIMs are available which support the following field controllers:
- Open System Controller. The ICS-sponsored Open System Controller is the recommended controller for use with
EnterpriseSMS. The controller was designed to maximize the power of the EnterpriseSMS software, and is the most capable
and flexible product available on the market. Since ICS publishes the Open Protocol used by the Open System
Controller and offers source code licenses for panel interface software in the form of Software Development Kits,
sophisticated users may adapt EnterpriseSMS to support other field controllers not listed in this section.
- Group 4 Securitas Micronode, Multinode 1, Supervised Alarm Panel, Elevator Node. These panels are those formerly
distributed by Group 4's American subsidiary, American Magnetics Corporation. The older American Magnetics
products; Micronode, Multinode 1, Supervised Alarm Panel, and Elevator Node, are supported through certain firmware levels.
No final decision has been made about supporting newer Group 4 panels.
- Cardkey Systems, Inc. subsidiary of Johnson Controls, Inc. D600-2, D620. EnterpriseSMS supports the D600-2 (with
PS135 firmware) panel manufactured by Cardkey, Inc. Support for this panel will be made available with our release
of EnterpriseSMS version 3.3.2. ICS is considering supporting the D600-2 with PS85 firware and the D620 with PS143
firmware as soon at suitable beta test sites are identified and support for those versions are found satisfactory.
MONITOR SIMS
MonitorSIMs monitor various types of independent sub-systems. Examples of such independent sub-systems include data gathering
panels, another access control system through its activity logging printer port, or a device of another type of system through its
activity reporting port. A single MonitorSIM may monitor more than one sub-system, including dial-in reporting by the sub-system.
Our Definition: Monitoring means receiving and reacting to transactions received from a remote subsystem but not sending
transactions to the remote sub-system.
The MonitorSIM permits the user to employ EnterpriseSMS as a general purpose tool for monitoring other systems. From alarm
panels, air conditioning systems, power systems, to any other system that reports activity, a MonitorSIM may be customized to
evaluate the received messages and translate the message to a format useful to EnterpriseSMS. The standard transaction message
may be utilized by all EnterpriseSMS modules in the same fashion as transaction messages from other sub-systems. Commands to the monitored sub-system are not supported.
SUPPORTED DEVICES
In general, EnterpriseSMS may be configured to support any device supported by a supported field controller. When the
user-programmable Open System Controller is deployed, virtually any field device available can be supported by the EnterpriseSMS
system. Supported devices fall into the following categories:
- Readers
- Locks, Gates, Barriers, Turnstiles
- Power Supplies, Batteries, and Miscellaneous Components
- Communication Devices
- Sensors
- Cable
- Additional Software
SPECIAL APPLICATIONS
SPECIAL SOFTWARE FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES
Special software includes two categories of applications software. The first involves special configurations of standard products, while
the second involves special applications.
SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS
- Redundant Solutions provide redundant host computers, potentially located at different geographical sites, to provide
real time backup for each other. Redundant systems require the use of Smart Stations and Smart SIMs to fully implement
the redundancy. These have the ability to automatically reroute their network paths to the proper host when one host takes over for another.
- Host-SubHost Solutions are custom engineered to meet the specific requirements of each system. Generally, this approach
is used when there is a central or principal facility along with satellite facilities that must operate independently should the
principal facility fail or there is a loss of connection to it. These solutions include the automatic resynchronization of
the sites upon central system recovery or upon restoration of communications. Host-Sub-Host systems may use either
Smart Stations and Smart SIMs or standard user stations and Standard SIMs, depending on the actual application requirements.
SPECIAL APPLICATIONS
Special Applications involves such special configurations as listed below.
- Muster Reporting
- Contractor Time Reporting and Auditing
- Application Programming Interfaces (API's). Application Programming Interfaces (API's) are optional, customizable
interfaces allowing EnterpriseSMS to communicate with external systems and databases. Supported API's include:
- External Database Interface. The EDI permits the addition, modification, and deletion of database records
from an external source. It is used to load data into a new system, and to make ongoing updates to the database.
- External Badging Interface. The EBI allows the addition and editing of records in the security database from a
non- EnterpriseSMS badging system. It may be used to load badges in batch into a new system, and to make ongoing updates to the database.
- Foreign System Interface. The FSI allows third party software on another computer to connect and transmit
real-time event activity to EnterpriseSMS. In some cases, EnterpriseSMS may also transmit responses back to the foreign system. Notification of alarms, alarm
update, alarm bypass, alarm acknowledgment and alarm release is supported, as is device control capability and communication verification.
- METASYS. METASYS is an interface for Johnson Controls' METASYS system. It communicates alarms from EnterpriseSMS to the METASYS client via its N2 bus,
allowing EnterpriseSMS control from the METASYS client.
Product Packages
System 1:Our Entry-Level Solution
The EnterpriseSMS System 1 is an entry-level product designed to meet the requirements of a basic access control users. Configured
as a single server system, System 1 offers an array of standard features with an unsurpassed growth path that eliminates the need
to recreate the system database or re-learn a new software program should the system grow. It includes as standard functions
normally found on many higher-priced systems.
System 1 includes a single Universal User Station running on the system server. There are no limits to the number of readers and
controllers than may be monitored. And, System 1 is fully and seamlessly upgradeable to the largest, multiserver System 10 configurations.
System 5: A SOLUTION FOR NEARLY EVERYONE
The basic EnterpriseSMS System 5 is configured as a centralized system licensed for a single SIM and a single OCS co-located on the
server with the host processes. Additional User Station licenses, up to a maximum of five, may be added. The System 5 feature set is
extensive and exceeds the needs of most users of access control systems. Its reporting capabilities are extensive. The System 5 will
support one local AccessSIM or MonitorSIM.
The System 5 is available in a number of packages, ranging from software only to computers with software, field panels, and field
devices. You may choose from a variety of operating system environments to meet your actual needs. Systems with mixed operating environments are supported.
The System 5 provides a comprehensive, one step solution for all but the most complex system requirements.
System 10:
A LARGE SYSTEM SOLUTION...FOR THE REALLY COMPLEX JOBS
The basic EnterpriseSMS System 10 is configured as a centralized system licensed for a single SIM and a single OCS co-located on the
server with the host processes. The basic System 10 package is designed as a starting point for complex system requirements. Its
capabilities are extensive, incorporating many System 5 options as standard features. An unlimited number of additional remote User
Station licenses may be purchased. The System 10 feature set is extensive and satisfies the most demanding requirements. Its
reporting capabilities are extensive. The basic System 10 includes a license for one local AccessSIM or MonitorSIM. Additional networked
SIM licenses may be purchased without limit.
The System 10 supports Smart Stations and SmartSIMs, which are required in redundant and some host-subhost configurations.
The System 10 is available in a number of packages, from software only to computers with software, field panels, and field devices. You
may choose from a variety of operating system environments to meet your actual needs. Systems with mixed operating environments are supported.
LICENSING AND ACTIVATION KEYS
Licensing refers to a given software product's legal terms of use. These terms of use, generally including the number and kinds of
computers upon which the software may be installed and the number of allowed users of the the software, are usually specified
by the license agreement and enforced by a serial number, or activation key, which must be entered at the time of installation.
The general type of terms selected by the software developer is called a licensing model. The chosen model must be responsive to 1)
the marketing policy of the software developer, and 2) to the license restrictions inherited from other software products used by
the developer and incorporated into the final product. Not all licenses from different suppliers are equal in terms; some of the distinctions are subtle but important.
Licensing is frequently dependent on the operating system and the capability of the computer hardware on which the software is
installed. This is especially true of operating system licenses. Within EnterpriseSMS, the operating system is assumed to be bundled with
the computer hardware and is not included with the EnterpriseSMS software. There are specific requirements for operating systems.
EnterpriseSMS is based on a flexible, user-friendly licensing model. Most EnterpriseSMS modules are not restricted to installation on one
workstation or server. In this way, EnterpriseSMS systems may truly be configured and reconfigured to meet your evolving needs.
WARRANTY & SUPPORT
EnterpriseSMS follows software industry standards relating to warranty. Our warranty addresses your exposure immediately after
purchase and includes special life-time bonuses. Our Continuing Support Service agreement, an upgrade service with technical
support options, provides the right mix of services to keep your EnterpriseSMS system up-to-date as your needs evolve.
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