VOLO Cloud Access introduces Enhanced Fire Alarm Integration

20th March 2025

VOLO cloud access control has launched a major update to its user portal, significantly enhancing fire alarm integration. This new update streamlines how fire alarm systems interact with VOLO Cloud Access, improving response times, event reporting and user experience.

 


Why integrate Fire Alarm Systems with VOLO Cloud Access Control?

As fire alarm integration becomes increasingly important for safety and compliance, VOLO has responded to user demand by making the process simpler and more efficient. According to VOLO Founder Dean Kernot, “We’ve seen more and more customers wanting fire alarms integrated into their access control systems to ensure quicker and easier access to all doors in an emergency.”

“We’ve seen more and more customers wanting fire alarms integrated into their access control systems to ensure quicker and easier access to all doors in an emergency.”

Previously, each door needed an independent connection to the fire alarm system, requiring extensive wiring. The latest update allows a single connection from the fire panel to the VOLO Master Controller, which then releases all connected doors instantly. “This not only makes the process faster but also improves event reporting and notifications,” Dean explained. “Users can now receive email alerts when the fire alarm is activated, improving situational awareness.”

New Features and Functionality

Dean Kernot VOLO Cloud Access Control

One of the key enhancements in this VOLO integration update is the improved identification of fire alarm triggers. Dean elaborated: “Previously, the system would only display the serial number of the master controller. Now, users get more detailed information, including site name, customer name, and specific location details. Instead of just seeing ‘Controller 1234,’ they will now see ‘Controller 1234 at Treehouse,’ making it far easier to manage and respond to alarms.”

Another major improvement is the speed of processing fire alarm events. The system now clears commands faster and provides clearer indications when a reset is in progress. “We’ve refined the reset function so that users can continue managing other tasks without being blocked by an ongoing fire alarm reset,” Dean noted.

Software Update – no hardware changes needed

The best part? This is a software update, meaning no new hardware is required. Dean confirmed: “Yes, this is a fully software-driven update, meaning it can be retroactively applied to existing VOLO systems. The information was already there – we just needed to expand it and make it more accessible.”

With a redesigned dashboard and operating platform, VOLO has made fire alarm data more visible and easier to manage in real time. “This was a crucial update for us because fire safety is a life-preserving service. We needed to ensure that property managers and security teams could act quickly and efficiently.”

How to activate the update

One of the biggest advantages of this update is that users don’t need to take any action to enable it. “The new functionality is already built into the system,” Dean assured. “If a VOLO system is connected to a fire alarm, the updated pop-up notifications and reset functions are automatically available.”

“If a VOLO system is connected to a fire alarm, the updated pop-up notifications and reset functions are automatically available.”

The update also enhances VOLO’s master reporting capabilities, providing more detailed insights into fire alarm activations and responses. “We constantly strive to improve user experience, and this update is a major step in that direction.”

A game-changer for property managers and installers

For property managers overseeing multiple sites, this update is a game-changer. The new system prevents one fire alarm incident from blocking access to other locations, allowing seamless management across multiple properties.

By improving response times, event reporting, and user accessibility, VOLO continues to lead the way in cloud-based access control innovation. This latest update ensures that fire alarm integration is smarter, faster, and more effective than ever before.

VOLO Cloud Access Control interview - Dean Kernot & Chris Edwards

  • CIE's Chris Edwards talks to VOLO Founder Dean Kernot about the latest Fire Alarm integration updates to their cloud access control platform.

​Key Points of the VOLO Cloud Access Control Fire Alarm Integration Update

  • Enhanced Fire Alarm Integration: New update improves how fire alarms interact with VOLO’s Master Controller.
  • Simplified Connection: A single fire panel connection now releases all connected doors, reducing wiring complexity.
  • Faster Response Times: The system processes fire alarm events more quickly, improving emergency access.
  • Improved Event Reporting: Users receive detailed notifications with site name, customer name, and location details instead of just controller numbers.
  • Email Alerts: Users are notified via email when a fire alarm is activated, enhancing situational awareness.
  • Optimised Reset Function: Fire alarm resets no longer block other management tasks.
  • Software-Only Update: No new hardware is required; the update applies retroactively to existing VOLO systems.
  • Automatic Activation: Users don’t need to take any action; new features are built into the system.
  • Improved Master Reporting: Provides more detailed insights into fire alarm activations and responses.
  • Better Property Management: Prevents one fire alarm event from disrupting access to multiple locations.
  • User-Centric Dashboard: Redesigned interface makes fire alarm data more visible and easier to manage.
  • Commitment to Safety: VOLO emphasizes fire safety as a critical, life-preserving service.

Find out more...


Available to order now from CIE

VOLO Cloud Access Control, including this latest fire alarm integration update, is available through Value-Added Distributor CIE-Group. CIE provides expert advice and support for security professionals looking to implement VOLO’s cutting-edge access control solutions.

For full details or to arrange a product demonstration, please contact the CIE sales team on T. 0115 9770075 or email [email protected]


Related Products:

VOLO cloud-based Access Control - Master Unit  VOLO cloud-based access control - Expansion Unit  

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