Vodafone UK reports that it has signed a 10-year extension to its agreement with CSL Dualcom (CSL), the alarm services firm, to provide a managed Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity platform. The firms say this new service will support CSL’s expansion into new vertical sectors beyond fire and security, including retail and utilities.
CSL manages the connectivity to more than 400,000 IoT connected devices, including alarms, in residential and commercial buildings across Europe. This new deal, which extends a 20-year relationship, sees Vodafone IoT supplying managed connectivity to CSL through the Vodafone Managed IoT Connectivity Platform. CSL’s dual signal (DualCom) alarm units use wired (telephone or internet) and wireless (GPRS/GSM) connections to maintain availability. This enables a wired alarm system, if cut by would-be intruders, to remain connected to an ARC (alarm receiving centre).
The Vodafone platform provides what the telecoms firm calls a complete, hosted solution for managing IoT assets wherever they are deployed, enabling CSL to have real-time data about the status of its devices and connections and central control for managing any configuration changes, while maintaining security and reliability.
Cyril Deschanel, Head of Northern Europe for Vodafone IoT, said: “Vodafone is delighted to be working with CSL. We have a strong, long-established relationship with CSL and this latest venture really cements our partnership. It’s a great investment and example of how we can provide mission-critical level connectivity for the alarm security sector through the capabilities we now offer via our network.”
And Ed Heale, Managing Director of CSL said: “We are adding 6,000 connections to our base a month, all of which provide complete end-to-end connectivity solutions for security, fire, health and other mission critical IoT applications. By extending our partnership with Vodafone, we have the expertise of a total communications provider that recognises the importance of maintaining investment into critical network services and is able to support our growing service and IoT needs.”
