D-Link Video Servers (IP Transmission) / Video Encoders

For those of you old enough to remember, video matrix switchers were once the heyday of surveillance camera control. These cumbersome antiques were at the heart of every major video surveillance system (video surveillance at the time) in premier gaming properties, government installations and corporate industrial complexes. They required more physical labor to construct and configure than perhaps the pyramids – maybe not – but you get the picture. And then digital video made its way in to the market and everything changed, transforming the physical demands for camera control and management from a hardware-centric to a software driven process. We’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely There’s no doubt that this migration also presented significant challenges as many security professionals often struggled with all things IT and software programming being one of the industry’s soft spots. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely. However, the complexities of today’s VMS functionality can be intimidating for anyone tasked with installing one of these systems given all of the user-defined options available from the simplest camera sequencing and bandwidth allocations to mobile management and enterprise level integration. This is where truly advanced VMS solutions need to shine on both the operations and the design/build sides of the equation. Smart VMS Design There are more solutions products labelled “VMS solutions” out there than ever before. The issue is the fact that many of these “solutions” really don’t fall into the category of a true VMS by today’s standards but offer basic camera and NVR control. No doubt that there is a place for such software programs in the market. However, VMS solutions from the likes of OnSSI and other industry-leading companies offer distinct and superior management and control capabilities for demanding security and business intelligence applications. Perhaps of equal importance, these top-tier VMS solutions incorporate provisions for installers, so they have a clear and easier implementation path. OnSSI offers VMS solutions with smart camera drivers Here are seven attributes that can assist with the design and implementation of an advanced VMS solution: 1) Open Architecture Platform We need the ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth  The ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth is largely dependent on a systems platform architecture. Here’s where VMS solutions with open architecture provide a distinct advantage. Open-architecture solutions expand functionality by facilitating greater integration between multiple systems and components. This not only makes VMS solutions with open architecture easier to implement, it makes them extremely cost-efficient by eliminating the need for proprietary solutions. Open architecture systems also provide adherence to industry standards such as ONVIF and PSIA, as well as compression formats such as H.265 and MJPEG, and help ensure system integration and support of an extensive range of manufacturers’ cameras and off-the-shelf hardware. Be wary of VMS solutions with limited camera manufacturer support. 2) Simple Licensing Processes And Pricing Camera licenses and pricing is always a touchy subject, as any misunderstanding of a specific VMS solutions’ licensing terms can prove to be costly after the fact. And it often seems that some VMS suppliers have gone to great lengths to complicate the process as to obscure actual Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Perhaps the most direct, simple and straightforward camera licensing and pricing method is to have one license per IP address used by each camera/encoder on multi-channel devices. These should be perpetual licenses with no required annual fees or subscriptions. Additionally, the licensing agreement should be all inclusive without added fees for multiple clients, failover servers, active directory support, I/O devices, redundant management servers, technical support or security patches and updates. 3) Mixing And Matching Camera License Types The ability to mix and match different camera license types within the same system helps facilitate a seamless and simple migration of new and pre-existing systems with minimal downtime or interruption in operation. The ability to mix and match camera licenses not only saves valuable design and installation time, it can provide considerable savings when integrating large, multi-tenant systems. Mix and match capabilities also allow system designers to apply specific feature sets to specific groups of cameras to best leverage functionality and budgets, as well as providing the flexibility to implement an on-site, virtual, or cloud-based VMS solution, without any additional cost. 4) Auto Camera Detection And Configuration Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements. This functionality allows installers to instantly locate cameras on the network and configure them centrally so they can easily replace older cameras while seamlessly retaining video recorded from them. The auto detection capability should also include the ability to detect and import CSV files, which can then be stored and used to configure camera templates for future camera installation profiles. 5) Smart Camera Driver Technology VMS solutions with smart camera drivers offer valuable assistance during system implementation, and any time new cameras are added to the network or replace older models. Manufacturer-specific smart camera drivers expand the range of model-specific static drivers. Instead of storing the device’s information (codecs, resolutions, frame rates, etc.) statically, a VMS with smart camera drivers queries devices for their capabilities using the manufacturers’ proprietary protocol. All that is required for configuration is that the camera is available on the network. Smart camera drivers eliminate the need to wait for model-specific drivers or installation of driver packs, allowing for newly released cameras to be used immediately. Network security is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers  6) Importance Of Network Security Network Security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today Network security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today. This is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers. New security developments to look for include TLS 1.2 encryption protocols for camera-to-server communications (SSL 3.0 supported for older cameras), as well as server-to-server communications. Additional safeguards to consider include: randomized video databases with no camera identification information to secure recorded data; support for Active Directory authentication; AES encryption between servers and clients; and AES encrypted exporting. 7) Automatic Updates Regardless of the supplier you select for your VMS solution, they should be consistently providing new updates and security patches on a frequent if not regular basis. Keeping up with these updates can be a burden and are often overlooked leading to system failures and breeches. Advanced VMS solutions now feature automatic update service checks on a system-wide basis, eliminating the need to manually update individual servers and devices. This ensures that your VMS system always has the latest drivers, fixes and updates which assures overall security while reducing TCO. So next time you’re getting a demo of the latest and greatest VMS solution, remember to ask what it offers in terms of design and implementation tools. Half the battle with new technologies is getting them installed and working properly. Without the right tools to accomplish these critical first steps, all the functionality in the world will do you little good.

It amazes me how in a few short years security systems have gone from simple, dumb cameras witnessing events to intelligent eyes, ears, speech and touch solutions that boost situational awareness far beyond human capabilities. It seems the only senses missing from the equation now are smell and taste. And who knows, someone might be working on those in a lab somewhere right now. But what’s really fascinating to me is how the Internet of Things (IoT) has opened a world of possibilities for transforming security technology into something new yet again. With IoT we’re able to push and pull nuggets of intelligence from sources we never considered before: environmental sensors, pressure plates, door lock timers and much more. It’s helped us break through the constraining mindset that security systems are strictly single-purpose. With interconnectivity at the core, we’re starting to imagine myriad ways to apply these tools to challenges outside the realm of security. Here are just a few examples. Flood Management Assistance Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate remotely As recent hurricanes and floods have shown, water damage can be devastating to a community. That’s why some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem. Water sensors collect data from multiple sources such as rain gutters, sewer systems and pump stations, in order to monitor fluctuations in water levels and water quality. If an alert triggers, having a network camera in proximity to visually verify the situation helps responders determine the best course of action. For instance, if multiple water detection sensors trigger alerts simultaneously or sequentially over a large area it’s probably due to natural runoff from recent rainfall. But without eyes on the scene, how can you be sure? Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely. It might be a fire hydrant spewing water, a water main break or even a chemical spill. With video streaming live to the command center, staff can remotely inspect the area, determine the cause of the trigger and decide whether remediation is required, thus avoiding the expense of dispatching an investigative crew to a non-event. Some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem Environmental Control Assistance Data centers house the lifeblood of a business so it’s no wonder why companies work hard to protect them. We’re all familiar with the integration of network cameras with access control systems to visually verify who is actually using the credentials. Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely But there’s another aspect to protecting data centers and that’s environment control. Data centers need to maintain optimum humidity and temperature for the racks of electronics. When environmental sensors in the facility detect out-of-norm ranges technicians can remotely command a network camera to zoom in on the gauges and help them determine whether remediation might be necessary. Coupling network cameras with other sensors in the data center can provide visual confirmation of other conditions as well. For instance, every time a data rack door-open-close sensor detects an event it can trigger the camera to pan to the location and stream video to security. Some data centers employ weight sensors at the doorway to weigh personnel and equipment as they enter the room and when they exit to ensure no additional hardware is being taken out of the facility or left inside without permission. Any discrepancy would trigger the camera to zoom in for a close-up of the individual’s face and send a visual alert and ID information to security. Roadway Management And Parking Assistance Network cameras have long played a part in city-wide traffic management. Adding video analytics and integration with network sensors, makes those cameras that much smarter and versatile. They can detect cars driving in bike lanes or driving in the wrong direction and capture license plates of offenders. Their ability to detect anomalous traffic flow patterns can be integrated with car counting sensors, networked electronic road signs and traffic light systems to automatically redirect vehicles to alternate routes. They make great, intelligent parking lot attendants, too. Working in conjunction with weight sensors network cameras can count vehicles coming into and leaving a lot or garage and verify when the facility has reached capacity. License plate recognition and video analytics can be used to ascertain that a vehicle entering a reserved parking space doesn’t match the credentials and vehicle attributes in the database. With the addition of noise sensors and audio analytics, network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds – breaking glass, car alarms, gun shots, and aggressive speech – and triggering a visual alert to first responders. Network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds and triggering a visual alert to first responders Shopper Experience Assistance In the early days of online shopping, e-tailers designed their sites to replicate the in-store customer experience. In an ironic turn of events, today brick-and-mortar stores are trying to mirror the online shopping experience. To do so, they’re turning their security systems into adjunct sales assistance. With network video and audio system automation they can recognize and acknowledge loyal customers with personal greetings. Retailers are applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service With heatmapping analytics they can measure how much time a customer spends in a specific department or observe how they walk through the aisles of the store. They can track shopping behaviors such as items looked at that made it into the cart or didn’t, or whether a customer actually checked out or left the merchandise behind. By capturing these shopping patterns and trends retailers can shape a more positive, more profitable customer shopping experience. For instance, integrating video analytics with point of sale systems and RFID sensors on merchandise tags can result in timely alerts to sales associates to recommend additional merchandise. This is a case of emulating how e-tailers let the customer know that other customers who bought X often also purchased items Y and Z. Or to avoid disappointing customers due to stock outages, retailers are linking weight sensors and video analytics to make sure their shelves are well-stocked and if not, quickly alert associates to what items need to be restocked. Capturing Business Intelligence Retailers are also using video cameras to monitor checkout queues and trigger automated announcements over the public-address system, closed system such as smartphones or other wireless communications devices that checkers are needed rather wait for a person to call for backup. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs They’re applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service. While retailers will always use their surveillance camera for loss prevention, they’re finding that integrating traditional technology in new ways can yield even bigger returns. Linking network video surveillance, video analytics, network communications system and sensors with point-of-sale systems and customer loyalty databases, retailers are capturing the business intelligence they need to get back in the game and make brick-and-mortar a greater overall experience than online shopping. A Natural Cross-Over Technology This trend towards integration has forever changed how organizations view their investment in security technology. The intelligence and versatility of a tool that can see, verify and analyze what’s happening in real-time is spurring users to tap its cross-over potential for a host of other tasks that could benefit from more astute situational awareness – everything from manufacturing and equipment maintenance to logistics, inventory control and beyond. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs. How we capitalize on that connection is only limited by our imagination.

Consolidation persisted in the physical security industry in 2018, and big companies such as Motorola, Canon and UTC continued to make moves. Also among the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) news in 2018 was a high-profile bankruptcy (that ended well), continuing consolidation in the integrator market, and the creation of a new entity called “LenelS2.” Here’s a look at the Top 10 M&A stories in 2018: 1. Motorola Acquires Avigilon Motorola Solutions announced in February that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire video surveillance provider Avigilon in an all-cash transaction that enhances Motorola Solutions’ portfolio of mission-critical communications technologies. Avigilon products are used by a range of commercial and government customers including critical infrastructure, airports, government facilities, public venues, healthcare centers and retail. The company holds more than 750 U.S. and international patents. 2. UTC Climate, Control & Security Buys S2 Security UTC Climate, Controls & Security agreed in September to acquire S2 Security, a developer of unified security and video management solutions. UTC subsequently combined S2 with its Lenel brand to create LenelS2, “a global leader in advanced access control systems and services” with “complementary strengths.” 3. Costar Technologies Acquires Arecont Vision After Bankruptcy Arecont Vision, the provider of IP-based megapixel camera and video surveillance solutions, announced in July that the acquisition by Costar Technologies, Inc. of its assets had been approved by the bankruptcy court. After the closing of the sale, the company began operating as Arecont Vision Costar, LLC and is part of Costar, a U.S. corporation that designs, develops, manufactures, and distributes a range of products for the video surveillance and machine vision markets. 4. Allegion Acquires Access Control Company ISONAS Allegion plc, a security products and solutions provider, agreed in June to acquire ISONAS through one of its subsidiaries. ISONAS’ edge-computing technology provides access control solutions for non-residential markets. ISONAS' devices – like its integrated reader-controllers – utilize power over ethernet, making them easy to install and cost effective as they utilize existing customer infrastructures. The company is based in Boulder, Colo. 5. HID Buys Crossmatch for Biometrics HID Global announced that it had acquired Crossmatch, a provider of biometric identity management and secure authentication solutions, from Francisco Partners. Crossmatch’s portfolio of products includes biometric identity management hardware and software that complement HID’s broad portfolio of trusted identity products and services. 6. BriefCam Announces Acquisition by Canon BriefCam, a global provider of video synopsis and deep learning solutions, announced its acquisition in May by Canon Inc., a global digital imaging solutions company. The addition of BriefCam to Canon’s network video solutions products portfolio complements the Canon Group’s previous acquisitions of Axis Communications and Milestone Systems. 7. Allied Universal Acquires U.S. Security Associates Allied Universal, a security and facility services company, finalized its acquisition of U.S. Security Associates (USSA) in October, further building on its position in the security services industry. This acquisition includes Andrews International (including its Government Services Division and Consulting and Investigations and International Division) and Staff Pro. 8. Johnson Controls Acquires Smartvue Corp. Johnson Controls announced in April that it had acquired Smartvue, a global IoT and video provider that empowers cloud video surveillance and IoT video services. The addition of the Smartvue cloud-based video platform will enhance Johnson Controls’ offering of an end-to-end, smart cloud-based solution that can provide superior business data and intelligence to customers and added value to partners. 9. ADT Acquires Red Hawk Fire & Security (and Others) ADT Inc.’s acquisition of Red Hawk Fire & Security, Boca Raton, Fla., was the latest move in ADT Commercial’s strategy to buy up security integrator firms around the country and grow their footprint. In addition to the Red Hawk acquisition, announced in mid-October, ADT has acquired more than a half-dozen security system integration firms in the last year or so. 10. Convergint Technologies Continues to Acquire Convergint Technologies announced in August the acquisition of New Jersey-based Access Control Technologies (ACT), bringing further electronic security systems experience to Convergint's service capabilities. Convergint has strategically grown its service footprint across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia Pacific through strong organic growth and the completion of 18 acquisitions since early 2016. And it continues: Convergint announced acquisition of SI Technologies, Albany, N.Y., in November and Firstline Security Integration (FSI), Anaheim, Calif., in December. (And Convergint itself was acquired in February by private equity group Ares Management.)

Asia’s security industry is once again beginning to shift its attention towards Taipei, as preparations continue ahead of the 22nd edition of Secutech. As anticipation continues to build, the fair’s organisers announce details of six pavilions that will allow buyers to easily locate high quality products as well as the most relevant OEM and ODM partners for their businesses. Speaking about the benefits that the pavilions will bring, Ms Regina Tsai, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd, said: “Technologies such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things, robotics and biometrics have applications across many different vertical markets. The six pavilions will encourage cross-sector partnerships and highlight real-world business applications of some of these technologies.” Ideal Starting Point Best-in-class building, factory and mobility products will be on offer across the zones as well as pioneering cybersecurity and surveillance solutions “The market for tailor made security solutions in verticals such as transportation and factory is also continuing to grow, so we are delighted that we will be welcoming established brands with strong R&D capabilities that can accommodate the market.” The coming edition of the show will take place from 8 – 10 May 2019 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre. In 2018, the fair attracted 427 exhibitors to over 22,000 sqm of exhibition space. With similar numbers expected at the upcoming edition, the six pavilions will provide an ideal starting point for trade visitors to carry out their sourcing and networking. Best-in-class building, factory and mobility products will be on offer across the zones as well as pioneering cybersecurity and surveillance solutions. Details of the six pavilions are listed below: AI And Software Pavilion As artificial intelligence continues to offer greater accuracy and operational efficiencies, the global demand for video analytics and recognition technologies has grown. With this market in mind, the AI + Software Pavilion will host the latest related innovations from a variety of AI specialists, including AiUnion, eRay, Lips, SkyREC, and TDV. Among the technologies to be showcased are facial recognition systems, license plate recognition systems, behavior and gesture recognition systems, speech recognition systems, big data analytics software and more. Cyber Security Pavilion A growing number of endpoint devices including security cameras and access control panels are being interconnected through the IoT A growing number of endpoint devices including security cameras and access control panels are being interconnected through the IoT. This has in turn created a need for adequate cybersecurity provisions to ensure network security. Cutting-edge solutions that achieve this goal will be housed at the Cybersecurity Pavilion, including the likes of cloud security, risk remediation solutions, and network & endpoint security systems. Smart Factory And Industrial Safety Pavilion The applications of machine vision systems in factory and industrial settings are growing. Not only can the systems secure site perimeters and ensure worker safety, but they can also reduce labor costs and improve productivity. The Smart Factory & Industrial Safety Pavilion will allow trade visitors to delve into the latest developments in this field, by connecting them with top-notch suppliers of workplace monitoring systems, personnel identification systems, access control systems, smart patrol systems and more. Smart Living Pavilion  Utilising the IoT to establish smart communities is a growing concept across Asia. Subsystems in buildings and homes can now be interlinked and controlled from centralized hubs in order to create smart homes and buildings. An international line up of brands with expertise in this field, including the likes of Full Enterprise, Jinlong, Link Savvy, Silicon Labs, Sonas, TUTK, Uhikari Technology, and Umbo CV have confirmed their participation at the Smart Living Pavilion, to showcase a selection of facial recognition, voice command, and deep learning technologies for smart living, elderly care and the smart hotel sector. Smart Parking Pavilion These products have been in increasing demand because of crowded urban environments placing a premium on parking spaces AMTK, D-Link, Nietzsche, Smartway and Smart Living will join other suppliers at the Smart Parking Pavilion with the latest number plate recognition systems, parking management systems and real-time street parking solutions. These products have been in increasing demand because of crowded urban environments placing a premium on parking spaces. Mixed-use buildings such as shopping complexes, commercial buildings and hospitals are also requiring increasingly sophisticated car park management systems. Smart Transportation Pavilion  Cities around the world are adopting smart transportation systems to overcome traffic congestion, increase road safety, and improve public transportation efficiency. To accommodate this growing sector, a selection of innovative ‘smart’ solutions for road, railway, petrol stations, and fleet management will be available at the Smart Transportation Pavilion from brands such as Axiomtek, D-Link, Korenix, Lantech and TIBBO. Protection Of Buildings Secutech will take place from 8 – 10 May 2019 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre. The fair is organized by Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd and is part of a global network of Safety Security and Fire trade fairs. Safety and security are increasingly important basic needs and, therefore, stand for a growing global market. With thirteen trade fairs, congresses and forums around the world, Messe Frankfurt brings together demand and supply worldwide with progressive, connected products, applications and services focusing on commercial security and the protection of buildings, spaces and people. The Safety, Security & Fire business cluster offers access to the dynamic markets of the Arabian Peninsula, Asia, Europe and South America.

D-Link switches and IP surveillance deliver speed, security and affordability for Pangborn Memorial Airport Requiring a network infrastructure upgrade to accommodate rapid growth, Pangborn Memorial Airport turned to D-Link to develop a stronger and more robust network to handle increased traffic. The East Wenatchee airport in Washington planned to upgrade equipment gradually, but a community partnership with the Sheriff’s office to conduct a full-scale mock “Active Shooter” training program at the airport prompted the need for a comprehensive installation. Providing Full IP Surveillance The airport required full network performance and IP surveillance coverage quickly, all within a very tight budget. The previous Cisco network gear was severely limited by 100 Mbps switching. Since the Cisco upgrade was too expensive, the airport began to explore a more affordable solution, and turned to technology reseller Firefly Technology for assistance. “Although the Cisco gear had all the capabilities Pangborn needed, the cost was significantly higher – especially when you consider all the ongoing SMARTnet contracts to keep the firmware warranties and support active,” said Denton Meier, CEO and chairman, Firefly Technology. “With D-Link, all of the support and warranties are included for life. It just came down to price-per-performance. Pangborn realised they could get a lot more for their money and get everything installed more quickly with D-Link.” D-Link Installation The upgraded IP surveillance proved extremely helpful when the cameras captured high-quality footage of a vandalism incident Pangborn began purchasing and installing D-Link equipment in stages. After upgrading various parts of the airport’s network infrastructure, D-Link managed switches were installed at the core network. Followed by D-Link light-managed (Smart) switches on the periphery to support secure connections, faster speeds and enhanced performance. Part two of the project focussed on upgrading the surveillance capabilities using D-Link IP surveillance solutions. Premium 3 MP Full HD WDR IP Cameras (DCS-3716) were installed, along with cloud-enabled HD Outdoor IP Cameras (DCS-7010L) to monitor various areas of the airport and increase overall security. “Once the maintenance team finished the wiring, the whole implementation only took a couple of days,” said Meier. “We installed all the cameras, configured them, integrated them with PoE and NVR software, and finished just in time for the shooter exercise.” Enhanced Security And Performance D-Link’s high-performance switches and IP surveillance set the stage for better security and faster network performance to support a more robust network and increased traffic. The upgraded IP surveillance proved extremely helpful when the cameras captured high-quality footage of a vandalism incident in progress. Additionally, the active shooter footage collected from the D-Link IP cameras was used to create a recap documentary for future emergency responder training purposes. This network implementation went so well, Pangborn Memorial Airport plans to expand their IP surveillance system with at least three more D-Link cameras, including the outdoor dome camera to quickly zoom onto the runway. “The setup was very easy, and now Pangborn enjoys way more functionality and faster overall networking speed and support for their new services,” said Meier. “Furthermore, with proactive alerts, our company can do a lot of the airport’s network management remotely, which saves us time and helps keep the airport’s costs low.”

Fibaro, a leading European manufacturer of wireless, intelligent home automation systems, announces the availability in the United States of Home Center 2, the centerpiece of Fibaro’s total connected home ecosystem.  Based on Z-Wave wireless technology, the Home Center 2 uses Fibaro and other Z-Wave sensors to provide complete control over hundreds of home automation devices and scenarios. As a result, the Home Center 2 brings a high level of convenience, safety and energy efficiency to homeowners. The Home Center 2 and its many diverse functions can be controlled via a user-friendly interface on a computer or through Fibaro’s smartphone/tablet application. This application works with voice commands and GPS integration, and can be used anywhere in the world. Compatibility With Popular Home Automation Devices In addition to working with Fibaro Home Automation devices like the award-winning Fibaro Motion Sensor and Fibaro Flood Sensor, the Home Center 2 is compatible with many of the world’s most popular home automation devices. These include: thermostats from Nest, Trane, Honeywell, RCS, 2GIG; Internet Protocol (IP) cameras from D-Link, Gen IV, Hikvision, Geo, Speco, and Axis; Linear garage door openers; Philips Hue lighting; DSC alarms; and an array of products and systems from other leading home technology providers. Said Rich Bira, Managing Director of Fibaro USA, “We’re confident that homeowners will appreciate the functionality and ease of use of the Home Center 2. This product is going to further accelerate Fibaro’s mission of providing our customers with a complete connected home experience. The availability of Home Center 2 also provides integrators, dealers and installers with a flexible solution that is interoperable with popular devices from a wide range of manufacturers.” Built on the Z-Wave protocol, the premier technology platform for connected devices, Fibaro’s Home Center 2 offers an array of features that sets it apart from other smart home control solutions. Like all Fibaro products, the solid aluminum Home Center 2 features an elegant, sleek and seamless design. Installation of the Home Center 2 is simple and non-invasive, ensuring that the home’s infrastructure stays intact. Other Distinctive Features Include: Fast, easy and non-invasive installation Remote access via secure website or VPN Conditioning scenes depending on weather or other user-defined variables Works with popular IP cameras like Axis, Gen IV, Hikvision and many more Open API with active documentation built within and developer website gives the ability to create your own integrations Advanced GPS for each user within home or around the world Advanced energy management panel In addition, Fibaro plans to add additional features and will be expanding the list of compatible devices that work with Home Center 2. Home Center 2 features an extremely fast and efficient Intl Atom 1.6Ghz processor. It has 1 GB RAM, a 2 GB SLC Hard Drive, and a 4GB MLC Recover Disc. A large memory and fast processor ensure quick communication between all system devices. Fibaro’s Home Center 2 is available in the United States through the pro channel starting August 3, 2015.