Ian Moore, Product Manager at HKC Security discusses the company’s new approach to research and development strategies.

Can you tell me about HKC Security’s products and solutions?   

We manufacture a wide range of security products and solutions tailored for professional alarm installers.

These solutions include hybrid and wireless control panels, extensive wired and wireless expansion options, various intrusion detectors, stylish keypad options and advanced communicator solutions to allow for cloud & Smartphone app connectivity, IP monitoring, remote management and ease of servicing.  

We also provide a range of life safety devices such as wireless smoke, heat and carbon monoxide detectors, along with panic buttons for emergency situations and a wide range of reliable sounders.

We are customer focussed and offer superb technical support and comprehensive product training to ensure that installers are well-equipped to handle installations and troubleshooting.  

What research and development strategies have HKC implemented?  

At HKC, we prioritise innovation and reliability in our research and development efforts – we believe these elements are what our customers demand most.   

Our long-term product strategy involves integrating more and more smart, cutting-edge technologies into our intruder security infrastructure and conducting extensive market research is key to understanding both industry trends, customer needs and setting out what we need to achieve in the medium to long term.   

We design our solutions around an optimal experience for both installer and end-user, with the aim of providing an intuitive customer interface and ensuring a seamless transition for installers and users from one system to the next generation of products.   

As a further part of that integration strategy, we collaborate closely with other companies – inside and outside of the ASSA ABLOY group – to incorporate similar technologies, such as trusted camera integrations, into our systems which will help us deliver a complete security and smart home management solution.  

How have these strategies influenced HKC’s latest product launches?  

These strategies have been instrumental in the development of our next-generation intruder Hub, which features integrated 4G, Wi-Fi and Ethernet communicators, as well as Bluetooth for enhanced connectivity.   

We have also introduced new products like the SOLAS SABB siren, which offers customisable options and advanced features for superior security, which were requested by our installer community.

Furthermore, we are preparing to launch a doorbell camera that will be integrated into the HKC SecureComm App, which again will be a popular addition to our portfolio of products.

Our collaborative approach ensures that we bring innovative products and new integrations to market with the customer’s needs at the forefront.  

Can you explain some of the new features in your latest product launches?   

The SOLAS SABB is an advanced, wall-mounted warning device designed for external use.

It comes in wired and wireless variants with backlight options to provide a platform for our installers to advertise their brand.

The SOLAS SABB features integrated comfort LEDs with customisable patterns and a diagnostic mode that allows for immediate fault detection and testing without activating the siren during initial power-up.

Additional features include selectable SAB/SCB modes, adjustable sound output levels, a hinged lid for easy access, a built-in spirit level and a cover for terminal blocks.    

The 4G-WiFi card offers enhanced connectivity for the SW10270 and Quantum70 alarm panels.

It features a 4G modem and a World SIM card, ensuring a fast and reliable connection to the HKC SecureComm Cloud.  

Users can manage their alarm systems through the free HKC SecureComm 2 Smartphone app, receiving instant notifications and alerts.

The communicator supports dual-path communication via 4G (with 2G fallback) and Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless, instant IP signalling to all major alarm receiving centres.

It also includes features like jam detection, heartbeat monitoring and remote maintenance capabilities via the SmartLink700 software.  

To what extent does HKC value research when developing new products?  

Research is a cornerstone of our product development process at HKC.

We use research to stay attuned to market trends and to develop solutions that address specific security challenges.

We host installer-led and internal focus groups to brainstorm new product ideas that are both customer-focused and installer-friendly.     

Additionally, we analyse feedback from our CRM system, technical support and customer service calls to inform our development process.   

How does the company plan to continue to stand out from competitors?  

HKC stands out by sharing its expertise, leveraging strong customer-centric values and delivering innovative products.

We are committed to providing high-quality, reliable security systems, backed by excellent customer back-up and comprehensive training and business support for professional installers.

Our next-generation solutions build on the established DNA of our existing products, ensuring ease of use and training for installers.  

What challenges have HKC’s products helped to overcome in the industry?  

Our products have addressed several key challenges in the security industry.

For instance, providing reliable wireless security solutions for large commercial properties has always proved to be a challenge – we’ve established that our expandable wireless architecture offers robust and reliable connectivity over wide areas, allowing us to support projects in various commercial and public sector settings.    

Connectivity is also crucial for both installers and customers. That’s why we’re continually enhancing our managed SecureComm Cloud Solution, which stands unmatched in its reliability.   

What are HKC’s goals for 2025?   

We have a very exciting year planned for 2025 which will see the launch of a new wireless hub alarm system and a doorbell and cameras solutions.

We will also release comprehensive updated software solutions to provide our installers with even greater flexibility when it comes to managing their customer’s security systems, accessing support and providing enhanced cobranded marketing materials.  

We will also commence the development of a new range of next generation alarm systems and look to strengthen integrations to allow for unrivalled integrated security solutions.

This article was originally published in the December Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.