VIVOTEK Network / IP Cameras

Smart security is advancing rapidly. As AI and 4K rise in adoption on smart video cameras, these higher video resolutions are driving the demand for more data to be stored on-camera. AI and smart video promise to extract greater insights from security video. Complex, extensive camera networks will already require a large amount of data storage, particularly if this is 24/7 monitoring from smart video-enabled devices. With 4K-compliant cameras projected to make up over 24% of all network cameras shipped by 2023 – there is a fast-growing desire for reliable storage on-board security cameras. The question for businesses is: do they look to break up their existing smart video network, by separating and compartmentalising cameras to handle data requirements, or do they increase its storage capabilities? As some people begin to venture out and return to work following initial COVID-19 measures, we are also seeing demand for thermal imaging technology increase. New technology like this combined with more of these always-on systems being rolled out, means organizations will need to carefully consider their smart video strategy. Newer edge computing will play an important role in capturing, collecting, and analyzing data and there are some key trends you can expect to see as a result of this evolution. There are many more types of cameras being used today, such as body cameras, dashboard cameras, and new Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors. Video data is so rich nowadays, you can analyze it and deduce a lot of valuable information in real-time, instead of post-event. Edge computing and smart security As public cloud adoption grew, companies and organizations saw the platform as a centralized location for big data. However, recently there’s been opposition to that trend. Instead we are now seeing data processed at the edge, rather than in the cloud. There is one main reason for this change in preference: latency. Newer edge computing will play an important role in capturing, collecting, and analyzing data Latency is an important consideration when trying to carry out real-time pattern recognition. It’s very difficult for cameras to process data – 4K surveillance video recorded 24/7 – if it has to go back to a centralized data center hundreds of miles away. This data analysis needs to happen quickly in order to be timely and applicable to dynamic situations, such as public safety. By storing relevant data at the edge, AI inferencing can happen much faster. Doing so can lead to safer communities, more effective operations, and smarter infrastructure. UHD and storage AI-enabled applications and capabilities, such as pattern recognition, depend on high-definition resolutions such as 4K – also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD). This detailed data has a major impact on storage – both the capacity and speeds at which it needs to be written, and the network. Compared to HD, 4K video has much higher storage requirements and we even have 8K on the horizon. As we know, 4K video has four times the number of pixels as HD video. In addition, 4K compliant video supports 8, 10, and 12 bits per channel that translate to 24-, 30- or 36-bit color depth per pixel. A similar pattern holds for HD — more color using 24 bits or less color using 10 or 12 bits in color depth per pixel. Altogether, there is up to a 5.7x increase in bits generated by 4K vs. 1080 pixel video. Larger video files place new demands on data infrastructure for both video production and surveillance. Which means investing in data infrastructure becomes a key consideration when looking into smart security. Always-on connectivity Whether designing solutions that have limited connectivity or ultra-fast 5G capabilities, most smart security solutions need to operate 24/7, regardless of their environment. Yet, on occasion, the underlying hardware and software systems fail. In the event of this, it is important to establish a failover process to ensure continued operation or restore data after a failure, including everything from traffic control to sensors to camera feeds and more. Consider the example of a hospital with dozens or even over a hundred cameras connected to a centralized recorder via IP. If the Ethernet goes down, no video can be captured. Such an event could pose a serious threat to the safety and security of hospital patients and staff. For this reason, microSD cards are used in cameras to enable continuous recording. Software tools – powered by AI – can then “patch” missing data streams with the content captured on the card to ensure the video stream can be viewed chronologically with no content gaps. Thermal imaging Health and safety is the number one priority for all organizations as people return to work and public spaces. Some organizations are deploying thermal imaging to help screen individuals for symptoms as they return. Organizations that operate with warehouses, depots and assembly lines will traditionally have large amounts of cameras located outside of the entrance. With thermal imaging smart video in place, these cameras can now serve a dual purpose as a screening device. The thermal imaging technology is capable of detecting elevated body temperatures, with 10-25 workers being scanned in one shot, from one camera – making it an efficient and accurate process. This way, staff can use the information to help identify people who may need further screening, testing, and/or isolation before returning to work. There are many more types of cameras being used today, such as body cameras, dashboard cameras, and new Internet of Things (IoT) devices While this may not increase data storage requirements, it can change your retention policies and practices. Smart security today is about utilising AI and edge computing, to deliver an always-on, high-resolution video provision that can help keep people safe 24/7. These trends increase the demands and importance of monitoring, which means requirements of the supporting data infrastructure improve to match that, including the ability to proactively manage the infrastructure to help ensure reliable operation. Companies need to make sure they have considered all the storage and policy challenges as part of their smart security strategy for the future.  

Today’s environment has evolved into something that according to some may seem unexplainable. But in the context of video surveillance, this is something that we understand. Allow me to shed some light and understanding in terms of security and why it truly is a necessity. Security is not a luxury, it is a necessity. An essential practice now peaking the interests of all businesses small and large. A video surveillance system is a cost effective option that does not require monitoring fees. As business slows, temporarily shuts down or closes, an increase in vacant properties is inevitable. This pandemic will continue to put severe pressure on many businesses around the country. With so many considered non-essential, it is really sad to see how many must shutter their doors and lay off employees. Keeping an eye out for suspicious activity using a commercial grade surveillance system that supports advanced analytics, may end up saving your potential customers thousands of dollars down the road. Demand For Video Surveillance And Security Products We can certainly draw on the conclusion that security is a “need” more so than a “want”. Times like this just further cement that thought process. In today’s economic spiral, people aren’t actively looking for lighting controls or home theaters. What they look for is a way to keep their loved ones safe, protect their homes, businesses and property. In my opinion, you will see video surveillance and security product sales skyrocket in the coming months and years. It has been reported that response times for first responders may be impacted as a result of COVID-19, leaving those with bad intent more time to ransack a property knowing that law enforcement may be slow to respond. Criminals will always take advantage of the situation. All we can do as a community is use common sense, stay vigilant and watch out for one another. For some of us that may mean mitigating risks with technology. Affordable Video Monitoring Solutions Having a solution that can quickly and securely share video footage may be the difference between identifying a perpetrator and becoming a victim. Ella, a video search platform developed by IC Realtime, makes every second of video instantly searchable and shareable, either with the authorities or your neighborhood social apps. Plus it is compatible with any RTSP streaming device. To wrap this up, it’s not about pointing out the obvious, it’s really about bringing awareness as to how technologies can be implemented to provide peace of mind without breaking the bank. Video surveillance technology is a way to do that and provide added security for you, your family and your business.

The safeguarding of premises through the monitoring of entrance and exit points has traditionally been a very manual aspect of security. Human operators have been relied on to make decisions about who to admit and deny based on levels of authorization and the appropriate credentials. The access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation But the access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation; one where the protection of premises, assets and people is increasingly delivered by interconnected systems utilising IoT devices and cloud infrastructure to offer greater levels of security and protection. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification, right through to complex networks of thermal cameras, audio speakers and sensors. These systems, connected through the cloud, can be customized and scaled to meet the precise requirements of today’s customer. And it’s the ease of cloud integration, combined with open technologies and platforms that is encouraging increasing collaboration and exciting developments while rendering legacy systems largely unfit for purpose. Remote management and advanced diagnostics Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution.Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution. For example, as the world faces an unprecedented challenge and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause disruption, the ability to monitor and manage access to sites remotely is a welcome advantage for security teams who might otherwise have to check premises in person and risk breaking social distancing regulations. The benefits of not physically having to be on site extend to the locations within which these technologies can be utilised. As an example, within a critical infrastructure energy project, access can be granted remotely for maintenance on hard to reach locations. Advanced diagnostics can also play a part in such a scenario. When access control is integrated with video surveillance and IP audio, real-time monitoring of access points can identify possible trespassers with automated audio messages used to deter illegal access and making any dangers clear. And with video surveillance in the mix, high quality footage can be provided to authorities with real-time evidence of a crime in progress. Comprehensive protection in retail The use of connected technologies for advanced protection extends to many forward-looking applications. Within the retail industry, autonomous, cashier-less stores are already growing in popularity. Customers are able to use mobile technology to self-scan their chosen products and make payments, all from using a dedicated app. From an access control and security perspective, connected doors can be controlled to protect staff and monitor shopper movement. Remote management includes tasks such as rolling out firmware updates or restarting door controllers, with push notifications sent immediately to security personnel in the event of a breach or a door left open. Remote monitoring access control in storage In the storage facility space, this too can now be entirely run through the cloud with remote monitoring of access control and surveillance providing a secure and streamlined service. There is much to gain from automating the customer journey, where storage lockers are selected online and, following payment, customers are granted access. Through an app the customer can share their access with others, check event logs, and activate notifications. With traditional padlocks the sharing of access is not as practical, and it’s not easy for managers to keep a record of storage locker access. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers. The elimination of manual tasks, in both scenarios, represents cost savings. When doors are connected to the cloud, their geographical location is rendered largely irrelevant. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers They become IoT devices which are fully integrated and remotely programmable from anywhere, at any time. This creates a powerful advantage for the managers of these environments, making it possible to report on the status of a whole chain of stores, or to monitor access to numerous storage facilities, using the intelligence that the technology provides from the data it collects. Open platforms powers continuous innovation All of these examples rely on open technology to make it possible, allowing developers and technology providers to avoid the pitfalls that come with the use of proprietary systems. The limitations of such systems have meant that the ideas, designs and concepts of the few have stifled the creativity and potential of the many, holding back innovation and letting the solutions become tired and their application predictable. Proprietary systems have meant that solution providers have been unable to meet their customers’ requirements until the latest upgrade becomes available or a new solution is rolled out. This use of open technology enables a system that allows for collaboration, the sharing of ideas and for the creation of partnerships to produce ground-breaking new applications of technology. Open systems demonstrate a confidence in a vendor’s own solutions and a willingness to share and encourage others to innovate and to facilitate joint learning. An example of the dynamic use of open technology is Axis’ physical access control hardware, which enables partners to develop their own cloud-based software for control and analysis of access points, all the while building and expanding on Axis’ technology platform. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification Opportunities for growth Open hardware, systems and platforms create opportunities for smaller and younger companies to participate and compete, giving them a good starting point, and some leverage within the industry when building and improving upon existing, proven technologies. This is important for the evolution and continual relevance of the physical security industry in a digitally enabled world. Through increased collaboration across technology platforms, and utilising the full range of possibilities afforded by the cloud environment, the manufacturers, vendors and installers of today’s IP enabled access control systems can continue to create smart solutions to meet the ever-changing demands and requirements of their customers across industry.

VIVOTEK, the global IP surveillance solution provider presents its latest facial recognition surveillance solution, brought through cooperation with the AI and facial recognition technology pioneer CyberLink Corp. The enhanced software integration between VIVOTEK’s Video Management Software (VMS), the VAST 2 and CyberLink’s FaceMe® Security facial recognition software will enable users to monitor and manage facial recognition results effortlessly for a wide range of security applications. Facial recognition In response to the surging demand in facial recognition applications, VIVOTEK is committed to providing a state-of-the-art facial recognition experience by adopting CyberLink’s FaceMe® Security software, into VIVOTEK’s VMS VAST 2. Staying ahead of the competition, VIVOTEK offers not only facial recognition compatibility but also supreme image quality by implementing a diverse array of VIVOTEK’s edge computing network cameras to VMS. Empowering security operators Through VIVOTEK’s enhanced VMS VAST 2, users will encounter a smoother installation process due to the centralized interface Through VIVOTEK’s enhanced VMS VAST 2, users will encounter a smoother installation process due to the centralized interface for camera settings, and receive accurate instant alerts based on preset blocklists, VIP and employees. Moreover, a series of matched videos filtering by VAST 2 database profiles empower security operators with a seamless facial recognition management experience. Beginning their alliance with CyberLink in early 2020, over the past few months, VIVOTEK has successfully brought this solution to the market across industries worldwide. Access control management It has found ideal application in settings from contactless access control management in commercial buildings, factories and hospitality, to security monitoring across campuses. In the near future, VIVOTEK will co-host a series of online webinars with CyberLink in Taiwan, Japan, Latin America and the USA, to demonstrate how AI facial recognition will transform smart security.

VIVOTEK, the global IP surveillance solution provider, announced enhancements in compatibility for AI video analytics and cybersecurity with its strategic video management software partners, Genetec and Milestone. These advances empower users to deploy intelligent and secured IP surveillance systems while enjoying seamless connectivity. AI video analytics Implementing AI into its core technology, VIVOTEK adopts an advanced AI engine in people detection and develops Smart VCA technology with higher accuracy and fewer false alarms. The on-board VIVOTEK Smart VCA suite includes advanced detection of Intrusion, Loitering, Line-Crossing, Unattended Objects, Missing Objects, Faces, and Crowds. Each Smart VCA event from a VIVOTEK network camera can also be set to trigger a relevant alarm in both Genetec Security Center and Milestone XProtect® video management software. Moreover, security operators now can visualize bounding boxes and detection areas through Milestone XProtect® video management software. Advanced cybersecurity protection To address rising threats to cybersecurity, VIVOTEK provides end to end comprehensive protection with its Cybersecurity Management Solution in partnership with Trend Micro, a global provider in cybersecurity solutions. Now security operators can obtain advanced cybersecurity protection and also receive event notification via either Genetec Security Center or Milestone XProtect®. Reinforce video analytics Peter Chang, Director of VIVOTEK Product Planning Division commented, “In 2014, VIVOTEK launched its Solution Integration Alliance (SIA) program to cooperate effectively with global partners who bring to the table different expertise in different areas. Genetec and Milestone are two of our strategic video management software partners and we will continue to invest more resources to facilitate mutual alliances. Together, we are able to reinforce video analytics and grow the businesses in this connected world and we imagine a safer, more intelligent, and more secure future.”

VIVOTEK, a globally renowned IP surveillance solution provider, held its 2020 Annual Shareholder Meeting and elected new Board of Directors. The nine new Directors elected to VIVOTEK’s Board of Directors are Bill Lo, Simon Chang, Judy Wang, Zoe Cherng, Owen Chen, Eddy Lan, Ji-Ren Lee, Sin-Hui Yen, and Chung-Yang (Ric) Huang. VIVOTEK Board of Directors Three of those elected, Ji-Ren Lee, Sin-Hui Yen, and Chung-Yang (Ric) Huang are independent directors. VIVOTEK also held the first meeting of the Board of Directors. The board elected Mr. Bill Lo, the General Manager of Delta Building Automation Business Group as VIVOTEK’s new Chairman. This new team will carry out leadership of VIVOTEK while enhancing corporate governance The VIVOTEK operation team includes: Chairman Mr. Bill Lo; President Mr. Alex Liao; Executive Vice President of Brand Business Group, Mr. William Ku; and Executive Vice President of ODM Business Group, Mr. Gordon Chen. This new team will carry out leadership of VIVOTEK while enhancing corporate governance and achieving long-term sustainability for the Company. Development of IP surveillance systems The former Chairman Mr. Owen Chen founded VIVOTEK Inc. in 2000, building on his profound experiences in Telecommunication research and development. Under Mr. Chen’s leadership, VIVOTEK moved from technology licensing to the development of IP surveillance systems and focused on 3 core technologies: video, voice, and communication. He insisted that research, development, design and manufacture all take place in Taiwan and developed practices of Own Brand Manufacture (OBM) and Own Design Manufacture (ODM) from the outset. Expanding global footprint Under his leadership of over the past two decades, VIVOTEK held its Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the Taiwan Stock Exchange, expanded its global footprint into over 116 countries and established branch offices in 6 countries. With deep roots in Taiwan, VIVOTEK has grown into a global company of 1000 employees. The Company has ranked as Taiwan’s top IP surveillance company and is the only Taiwanese company among the top 20 in the global security market. Global IP surveillance market Facing the fierce competition of globalisation, the company decided to partner with Delta Electronics in 2017" With regards to VIVOTEK’s long history in the field, Mr. Owen Chen said, “Over these two decades, we have strived to win this marathon. Now, this marathon has become a relay race. To overcome existing challenges, passing on the torch to reshape VIVOTEK is imperative.” Owen adds, “Facing the fierce competition of globalization, the company decided to partner with Delta Electronics in 2017. Combining our strengths, VIVOTEK is able to advance development in technology, channel penetration and operation efficiency. I will remain on VIVOTEK’s board of directors. In this way we can retain and continue to build a sustainable business in VIVOTEK.” Partnership with Delta Electronics Bill Lo, the new Chairman of VIVOTEK, now serves as the General Manager of the Building Automation Business Group at Delta Electronics Inc. Before joining Delta Electronics in 2017, he worked at IBM for over twenty years with proven track records in international business development, customer service, and coordination capability. Mr. Bill Lo stated, “I’m very proud to serve in my new position as Chairman of VIVOTEK. Security and video surveillance are such critical aspects of building automation as they go beyond and extend diverse applications in smart cities, smart retail and smart transportation. I will work side by side with VIVOTEK’s team; together we can maximize and synergize our two companies.”