Ajax Systems' Expert Introducing the EN54 Line
With a strategic focus on real-world installer workflows and the pressing need for rapid, disruption-free deployment, Ajax Systems’ Gordon Mattern introduces us to its EN54-certified fire protection line, offering a wireless, app-configurable system that combines fire detection, intrusion protection, video surveillance, and automation in one seamless platform. Mattern’s insights reveal today’s clients expectations and what’s the new standard in modern fire safety.
GIT SECURITY International: Mr. Mattern, as Head of Technical Pre-Sales at Ajax Systems DACH, how has your experience in the security industry shaped your perspective on current challenges and opportunities for innovation?
Gordon Mattern: We have completely new customer demands in the security industry. Private customers' expectations have evolved. They want convenience in addition to security. The demand for a unified and seamless security ecosystem has increased. Meanwhile, commercial customers now need to secure their properties in much more innovative ways. They are looking for sophisticated and fast-deployment security solutions to protect any type of assets.
Furthermore, seamless integration is no longer optional; it’s essential. Ajax Systems offers the perfect solutions to meet market demand, offering a comprehensive security ecosystem that combines intrusion, fire protection, video surveillance, and automation.
How would you describe the current state and main trends in the fire safety market, particularly across the DACH region?
Gordon Mattern: The current state of fire protection remains robust, but it has historically lacked disruptive innovation. Recognizing this gap, we've developed an EN54 certified system that delivers comprehensive dual-purpose security – addressing both fire detection and alarm systems in one integrated platform. We have brought precisely this solution to market with our EN54 Line. It is not another regular EN 54 certified system. It is a true disruptor of the conservative and stale industry.
For those unfamiliar with EN54, could you explain what these standards encompass and what they mean for the fire safety industry?
Gordon Mattern: The application areas of the DIN EN 54 series of standards for fire detection and fire alarm systems extend to commercial and municipal sites, such as office buildings, hospitals, kindergartens, retirement homes, and hotels, as well as special environments such as mining and ships.
Thus, the application possibilities are enormous in the DACH region. Our customers often request the implementation of a fire alarm system according to DIN VDE 0826-2. With Ajax EN54 Line, this is perfectly possible, and the installer can also integrate intrusion protection and video surveillance into our systems.
Ajax Systems’ new EN54-compliant product line is positioned as a significant shift in fire safety. Could you walk us through what makes this product line distinct in today’s market?
Gordon Mattern: What has always distinguished Ajax Systems the most is its innovation in the security industry. EN54 Line is built for real-world installer workflows and end-user expectations. It's an easy-to-install system that functions reliably and can be quickly and easily commissioned entirely via an app. It allows the building of a fully wireless system and then the management of the setup via the CIE's touch screen and Ajax apps, on-site or remotely. The installation means minimal disruption on site and rapid rollouts across single locations or multi-site portfolios. It’s designed to be installed quickly without compromising compliance.
What considerations and philosophies guided the development of Ajax’s EN54 Line? What do you think sets it apart from traditional solutions?
Gordon Mattern: We aimed to build on our success in the burglary sector and introduce a system that would be easy for installers to set up. Additionally, we wanted to create a new bridge between professional fire alarm and burglar alarm systems so that everything operates under one system. This not only simplifies management for installers and end users but also opens the door to smarter, more integrated safety strategies.
Rather than viewing fire as a separate layer of protection, we designed the EN54 Line products, combined with Ajax intrusion protection, automation, and video surveillance, to build a strong foundation for any client offer — whether it’s a chain gas station, a local grocery shop, a museum in a historical building, or a rapidly scaling manufacturing site. This is a true wireless solution with exceptional range, scalability, remote maintenance, and fast implementation — designed to fit all types of projects.
What can customers expect from this new generation of fire detection systems?
Gordon Mattern: Customers can expect the most innovative and advanced EN54 system on the market. This system offers fast and clean deployment of wireless fire detection and alarm systems that shortens installation time and reduces disruption on-site. Installers can implement wireless solutions faster and with fewer resources to stay ahead of the competition. No more programming the logic of interaction between system devices and the complex configuration process. Ajax Systems offers smart software and intuitive settings in the Ajax apps, quick device installation without disassembling enclosures, and automatic testing and reports.
Can you share some examples of how Ajax’s solutions can support both safety and business needs for different types of facilities?
Gordon Mattern: Yes, of course. Let's consider a hotel, which naturally needs not only fire protection but also to secure its facilities against burglary. Additionally, the hotel wants to be able to operate its video door intercom and surveillance cameras through the system. With Ajax Systems, all of this can be managed via an app. But it gets even better. Customers like hotels or kindergartens can also measure air quality with our system and receive notifications when certain levels are exceeded. That's truly fascinating.
The combination possibilities are suitable for every industry. Ajax EN54 Line enables fast setup and reliable protection without permanent wiring, and it's easily reusable, reconfigured, or redesigned. No noisy or invasive installation, low maintenance, and centralized supervision are critical in environments like schools or hospitals and high-risk facilities.
How do you envision the evolution of fire safety technology over the next few years, and what role will wireless innovation and advanced integration play in that transformation?
Gordon Mattern: I think they will play the biggest role. The market is moving toward solutions that are not only compliant and reliable but also faster, simpler, and easier to deploy. Laying cables is extremely expensive, especially in the DACH region, and finding installers is very difficult due to the shortage of skilled workers. An innovative and simple wireless solution for fire protection in the highly professional sector is exactly the right answer.
