Described by judges as "Offering a painless introduction and upgrade to fingerprint biometrics for Access Control" the integration delivers finger only access fully integrated into a comprehensive security management system, Cardax FT.

Jason Boyce, Cardax business development manager, was delighted to receive the award on behalf of Gallagher Security Management Systems, "The SAGEM integration provides seamless fingerprint enrolment and template management, all from within the Cardax FT user interface. Only the relevant fingerprint templates are sent to each reader, saving reader database space and cost. The readers immediately reflect schedule and access group changes in Cardax FT".

The Cardax FT / SAGEM integration is ideal for personnel, visitor and contractor identification. Other ID options include access control cards and PINs. Picture verification enables system operators to compare an image from a DVR/CCTV system with the cardholder image in the Cardax FT system.

In addition, the integration allows the option for duress fingers to be enrolled for tighter security. "If a duress finger is presented at a reader, access is granted as per normal access privileges, but an alarm is raised in Cardax FT Command Centre to alert the operator of a duress situation; this is a significant feature for increased staff and site security," comments Daniel McVeagh, product manager - Cardax.

Advanced Cardax FT functionality including Anti-passback, Dual Authorisation, Zone Counting, Interlocking Doors and Controlled Challenge are all available with SAGEM fingerprint readers, providing comprehensive, full access control at the touch of a finger.

The "IP in Security Innovation Awards" were introduced in 2004 by the team behind IIPSEC, the IP UserGroup and IPfocus magazine - to provide a platform to recognise and celebrate the new products, services and developments of IP technology in the security industry.

Following the great success of the event in the previous years, the number of entries for 2008 was excellent with more than 50 spread across the three categories: Software, Hardware & Application.

The judges came from differing backgrounds that included consultants, technical experts, installers and end-user customers. All were independent and totally impartial for this non-sponsored event.

The judging day included a review of each entry on an individual basis by the judges followed by an open, and sometimes lengthy, debate about the merits of the differing Software, Hardware and Applications. Although very close in all three categories the judges were both happy in the fairness of the process used and finally agreed unanimously in their decision for the 15 Finalists, 3 Category Winners and then the overall "Innovation Award" Winner.

The Cardax FT / SAGEM integration is just one of many innovations Gallagher Security Management Systems has on offer. GSMS prides itself on delivering 'best of breed' solutions to its customers. Ongoing integrations with leading edge technologies support the company's commitment to continually evolve and enhance the Cardax FT system further cementing its position as one of the most scalable and versatile security system available.