FAQ:General

Q: What is Hi-O?
A: Hi-O is the brand name for ASSA ABLOY Shared Technologies communication platforms. The first Hi-O branded communication platform is based on the CAN technology used within automotive and industrial applications.

Q: What is a communication platform?
A: It’s mainly firmware running on a microcontroller, allowing an electronic device to communicate to any other device in a standardized way.

Q: Why create a new standard, isn’t there already one to use?
A: There are currently no standards set that are addressing the locking and access control business. The Hi-O CAN platform is based on the CAN Open standard with additional security layers.

Q: So anyone can read the standard and understand how to access a Hi-O system?
A: Using open standards does not mean that security is compromised. The Hi-O CAN platform uses encryption with 128-bit common keys, and rolling codes.

Q: What does Hi-O provide that I cannot do in today’s door environment?
A: Hi-O provides intelligence to your electromechanical components. A Hi-O system does not need a “controller” to operate. Intelligence is distributed in a network and all components know how to work together, without conflict. Hi-O makes installation simple and standardized. Hi-O enabled devices provide statistics and information which will make the devices around the door ready for advanced diagnostic functions. A Hi-O system allows plug-and-play installation and unmatched documentation features.

Q: Will Hi-O devices become more expensive to produce?
A: No and Yes. Yes, if you look at a a specific component it could be more expensive as it needs embedded electronics. No, if you look at the complete system level. E.g. you don’t need a controller to add intlligence in your system and you don’t need external relays to solve the functionality that the customer needs. It’s all part of the more intelligent Hi-O system.