Intergraph acquisition adds smart (physical) security to smart grid

Quick Take: There's a macro trend underlying the build out of the smart grid. It has to do with the gradual merging of smart sensor networks to gain synergies and economies of scale. Here's an example of a company that's on that page. To its current lineup of smart grid applications – GIS, outage management, others – Intergraph now adds the ability to use sensors and cameras to monitor facilities, via its purchase of Augusta Systems. - By Jesse Berst

Intergraph Corporation has acquired Augusta Systems, which provides configurable technology platforms for complex monitoring, control and automation solutions. The acquisition gives Intergraph the ability to offer utilities and other customers more flexible and robust integration solutions for monitoring and visualizing complex data.

Augusta Systems' EdgeFrontier® middleware allows for integration and normalization of data, events and control functions from a variety of sources like sensors, wireless sensor networks, radio frequency identification systems, access control systems, metering and other measurement devices, actuators, databases and other applications, systems and devices.

EdgeFrontier has been used in several safety and security deployments as well as by electric utilities in smart grid projects.

"As the world leader in public safety, security and infrastructure management software, Intergraph continually strives to enable organizations to more efficiently optimize their resources and respond quickly to protect life, infrastructure and property," said John Graham, president, Intergraph Security, Government & Infrastructure. "The acquisition of Augusta Systems brings additional cutting-edge technology and expertise to our offerings, which further advances our position in the evolving marketplace."

Jesse Berst is the founder and chief analyst of Smart Grid News.com. He consults to smart grid companies seeking market entry advice and M&A advisory. A frequent keynoter at industry events in the US and abroad, he also serves on the Advisory Council of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Energy & Environment directorate.

You might also be interested in ...

Intergraph expands smart grid solution through partnership with eMeter

Smart grid outage management: Intergraph and Siemens kick it up a notch