Designed to support installers, consultants, and their end-user customers to engage with the very latest technology from across Norbain's portfolio, the new centre boasts a wide range of technology from over 40 leading brands, covering CCTV, access control, door entry and intruder alarm - configured to illustrate performance and functionality.

Allowing the comparison of features and benefits of different equipment, the Ashton Innovation Centre will enable installers to identify which technology is most suited to a specific application, and is also available for generic and manufacturer focussed training courses. Installers can book the centre to use for customer open days, and even internal staff meetings - and full supporting facilities are available to ensure that any visit to the centre runs smoothly.

End-users can also benefit from the centre, being able to compare and contrast various solutions, essentially, to build a level of trust with the products before being specified for use at their own single or multiple sites.

The display of equipment at the centre will be constantly managed and updated to represent the very latest products the industry has to offer. "With the opening of the Ashton Innovation Centre, Norbain now has two superb facilities, one in the North and one in the South," says Andrew Pigram, Norbain's Technical Director. "New technologies offering a high-level of operational benefits within security and non-security applications are represented. In this area, access control utilising advanced biometrics, and the deployment of video analytics to maximise performance and bring a level of automation to key system functions is a growing element of emerging technology, and an area where we can support installers to maximise their business opportunities.

"Our goal with the new demonstration and training facility is to provide a real value-add to installers, allowing them to make an informed decision about the best solutions for their customers."