The CX-450P pallet system incorporates both a proprietary dual-view and dual-energy capability – technologies which couple high-resolution imaging with the ability to discriminate varying materials. With material discrimination, screeners can qualify organic and inorganic matter, a critical competency aiding in detection of illegal drugs, firearms, or other contraband often found when screening high-risk vessels and cargo at borders around the world.

“L-3 Communications has been working diligently with the Australian Customs Service to find a versatile screening solution capable of meeting the border authorities specific needs,” said Al Barber, senior vice president and general manager of L-3 Security and Detection Systems. “The CX-450P is a robust, high-technology cargo system designed to provide clear, detailed imaging that can easily be used to verify manifest paperwork.”

The CX-450 platform is a customizable, high-energy cargo screening system available as a pallet, vehicle, or gantry configuration. Depending upon the configuration, the CX-450P can process up to 34 containers per hour with unparalleled accuracy. Goods move through a facility quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Even at its highest throughput, the CX-450P is guaranteed to
penetrate 3.5 to 4.0 inches of steel while providing highly distinguishable images.

Mr. Jacob Even-Ezra, Chairman of Magal, stated: “Although the DreamBox was launched at the end of March 2004, our expectations were that sales of the DreamBox would not start until the end of 2004. We are pleased that our investment in the marketing of this new product has already begun to pay off. We expect that this system will be installed at the client’s site before the end of 2004.”

In the report, “Federal Telecommunications MarketView,” INPUT predicts homeland security, e-government, force transformation in the Department of Defense, and telecommuting will continue to drive the market. “Telecommunications stands out as one of the main technology segments that is seeing increases in near term spending due to homeland security initiatives,” said Chris Campbell, senior analyst, federal market analysis at INPUT. “Telecommunications will support information sharing goals between agencies as well as communications between federal agencies and first responders at the state and local government level.” Federal spending on telecommunications represents approximately 26% of the total federal IT spending in FY2004.

Growth in telecommunications spending in the Department of Defense (including the three uniformed services) and the Department of Homeland Security can be tied directly to defense transformation and homeland security initiatives. INPUT expects telecommunications spending at the Department of Homeland Security to increase by 50 percent, from more than $US800 million in FY2004 to $US1.2 billion in FY 2009.

“Telecommunications is critical to the Department of Defense’s force transformation as it provides the infrastructure for network-centric warfare allowing for more efficient and effective coordination of joint forces and real-time intelligence updates,” explained Campbell. He added, “As wireless technologies become more secure, support higher data transmission speeds, and offer greater coverage they will also become a more integral part of every agency’s mission performance.” INPUT estimates that wireless spending will contribute to the telecommunications increase, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 12.5 percent, from $US1.4 billion in FY2004 to $US2.5 billion in FY2009.

“We have seen a marked upsurge in demands for outdoor perimeter protection and access control systems on the Nordic and other markets,” says Philip Mozes, divisional manager at Gunnebo Perimeter Protection.

“In the Nordic region, most ports should have been ready by 1 July 2004, but owing to late decisions and the dispensations they involved, the delivery and installation of protective fencing, gates barriers and alarm systems will continue throughout the whole of 2004.”

In the case of the Nordic markets, the measures to improve maritime security are based on rules adopted by the UN’s International Maritime Organisation.
Gunnebo Perimeter Protection is one of northern Europe’s leading suppliers of outdoor perimeter protection and access control systems. In April, as one measure to further strengthen its position in this market segment, Gunnebo acquired Elkosta, a German company with a broad range of high-graded security products for outdoor perimeter protection.

“This step further strengthens Diebold’s national presence in the electronic security arena,” Richard Baggot, vice president of Diebold’s electronic security and currency systems group, said in a statement.

Shortly after the AST buyout, Diebold acquired Antar-Com, an electronic systems integrator based in White Plains, N.Y. With 25 years of experience in the security and access control industry, Antar-Com provides security for ommercial, government and retail markets, employs about 100 people and generated $US27 million in revenue in 2003.

“This strategic acquisition allows us to broaden our product and service offerings,” Diebold President and COO Eric C. Evans, said in a statement. “The addition of Antar- Com will enhance Diebold’s proven hardware and software capabilities by providing total integrated security solutions for our customers.”

For the 2004 second quarter, sales increased by 36.9 per cent to $US1,680.0 million from sales of $US1,226.9 million for the 2003 second quarter. The increase in sales from acquired businesses was $US279.3 million. Consolidated organic(2) sales growth was 14.2 per cent, or $US173.8 million. Organic sales growth for the company’s defence businesses was 13.7 per cent, or $US149.2 million, driven by continued strong demand for secure communications and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems and products, aircraft modernization and maintenance, training and government services, training devices, guidance, navigation and imaging products and naval power equipment and services. Organic sales for the company’s commercial and other non-military businesses increased by 17.4 per cent, or $US24.6 million, primarily due to increased volumes for commercial aviation products and maintenance of security systems.

“Tyco will continue to employ over 700 people here locally,” Chris Woodcock, director, marketing communications for SimplexGrinnell, told SSN. Woodcock said the company employs 6,000 throughout Massachusetts and 260,000 worldwide. As a result of the cutbacks, the company will outsource the manufacturing of notification products and smoke detectors but control panels that carry the high-end SimplexGrinnell brand will stay inhouse.

Tyco has closed 142 facilities, reduced its staff by 5,300 and gotten out of 17 businesses since announcing it would focus on core business last November. The move has led to negative talk from some market insiders but the company’s balance sheet is starting to look very strong, with earnings up last quarter by 63 per cent compared to the same time in 2003.

There are 5 key business at Tyco including Electronics, Healthcare and Fire & Safety. Business units under Fire & Safety include familiar industry names like ADT, SimplexGrinnell and Software House.