An alliance between Johnson Controls (Milwaukee) and Simplex (Gardner, Mass.) will offer integrated building systems to customers across the globe. The agreement brings together Johnson Controls' Metasys Building Automation System, which controls heating, ventilating, air conditioning, security and access control systems, and Simplex's fire detection and alarm systems.

Johnson Controls will handle customer requests for packaged building controls and fire alarm system solutions, while Simplex will design, manufacture and deliver the fire system portion.

The two companies will work together to maintain technology leadership by staying at the forefront of breakthroughs that improve communication, compatibility, information sharing, application flexibility and ease of use.

Johnson Controls and Simplex will implement and manage the agreement through their respective networks of branch offices. Johnson Controls will continue to support previously installed fire detection and alarm systems.

In other news, Johnson Controls acquired Electronic Systems USA of Louisville, Ky., which develops multivendor building automation products and repair services. Terms of the sale were not disclosed.