Hotels, leisure & entertainment security applications

Dahua Technology, with its award winning deep learning algorithms, proudly releases WizMind – a portfolio of solutions composed of project-oriented products including IPC, NVR, PTZ, XVR, thermal and software platforms, delivering precise, reliable and comprehensive AI solutions to verticals including government, retail, energy, finance and transportation. WizMind's human-oriented solutions Powered by AI and deep learning algorithms, WizMind provides comprehensive human-oriented solutions including facial recognition, privacy protection, human video metadata, people counting and stereo analysis, enabling rapid and precise reaction. In addition, it provides more precise and effective AI search to locate targets, generating various human data for business analysis. According to IHS, the total market value of professional video surveillance equipment will grow to $27.2 million by 2023 To protect portrait data, WizMind provides outstanding privacy protection. Based on deep learning algorithms, WizMind supports real-time mosaic masking of the human face or body detected in the monitoring area, which is needed in courtroom scenarios and may be valuable to retailers which can optimize their business through intelligent analysis of customer flow, recorded without violating privacy or GDPR. WizMind based on vehicles WizMind boasts multiple vehicle-based AI solutions, such as ANPR and vehicle metadata, illegal parking which provide more attributes of vehicles for easy control, quick search and business analysis. It is widely used in urban areas, residential community entrances, parking lots and toll stations. By extracting and comparing plate numbers with databases, ANPR helps managers of parking lots and city roads improve vehicle management efficiency with functions like Blacklist Alarm and VIP Recognition. ANPR also supports vehicle tracking, which helps police efficiently locate vehicles according to the crosschecking result. ANPR is able to recognize plate numbers in over 58 countries. WizMind with thermal technology WizMind combines deep learning algorithms with thermal imaging technology to help users achieve ultra-long-distance monitoring in harsh environments, non-contact temperature monitoring and early fire prevention. The Dahua WizMind series is compatible with mainstream third party technology partners With an accuracy of 0.3 degrees Celcius and a speed that monitors three people per second, Dahua’s High Accuracy Body Temperature Monitoring Solution has been widely and successfully applied within transportation hubs, financial institutions, commercial complexes, schools and other places all over the world, joining the global efforts in pandemic prevention and control. WizMind Ecosystem Initiating openness and collaboration, the Dahua WizMind series is compatible with mainstream third party technology partners, such as Milestone, AxxonSoft, ISS and others. Furthermore, WizMind Ecosystem provides the DHOP and sufficient API for our technology partners, enabling them to combine real AI joint solutions to our common customers, and a series of marketing activities will be engaged with our ecosystem partners. Dahua WizMind, a high-end AI series, aims to serve demanding scenarios in many vertical industries. With the mission of “enabling a safer society and smarter living”, Dahua Technology will continue to focus on “innovation, quality and service” to serve its partners and customers around the world.

Due to the escalating coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd and ABEC Exhibitions and Conferences P Ltd, have decided that Secutech India will not take place in 2020. The decision is the result of travel restrictions and strict social distancing guidelines currently in place across India, and a lack of availability at the fair’s venue – the Bombay Exhibition Centre – during an appropriate time later this year. The fair will take place at the same location in Mumbai in May 2021. Stemming the spread of COVID-19 The Indian Government has taken extensive measures to stem the spread of COVID-19. Beginning from March 25, a 21-day nationwide lockdown was announced, effective until April 14. This has since been extended for another 19 days, effective until May 3. Strict social distancing regulations have been imposed, and all incoming and outgoing international and domestic flights have been suspended. With uncertainty and tight travel restrictions in place not only in India, but around the globe, pre-fair planning and preparations for Secutech India, originally scheduled from May 7 – 9, 2020, were severely hindered for the fair’s exhibitors and visitors. The decision to defer to 2021 Commenting on the cancellation, Ms Regina Tsai, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd, said: “The evolving situation, including local and international travel restrictions as well as constantly changing public health guidelines made it impossible for the fair to be held as scheduled. Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to find a new available time slot at the fair’s venue to adequately serve the interests of our exhibitors in 2020. Because of this, we have taken the difficult decision to defer the fair until 2021.” Mr Manish Gandhi, COO, ABEC Exhibitions & Conferences P Ltd, further commented: “As members of an industry that prioritises safety and security, we are confident that the industry is in full support of our decision. We remain committed to supporting the business of our stakeholders wherever possible, and we look forward to welcoming the full fraternity for another productive few days of trade in 2021."

Motorola Solutions has agreed to acquire IndigoVision, a U.K.-based provider of end-to-end video security solutions. The boards of Motorola Solutions, its holding company and IndigoVision have reached an agreement on the terms of a recommended cash acquisition for approximately $37.2 million, representing a premium of approximately 116 percent based on the average share price over the most recent 12-month period. The acquisition will be funded by existing cash resources of Motorola Solutions and become final in May 2020. Motorola Solutions has a strong presence in the large and expanding area of video security since acquiring Avigilon in March 2018. Their product offerings include high-definition cameras, advanced video analytics, network video management hardware and software and access control solutions. IndigoVision is a developer of complete, end-to-end video security solutions from cameras to video recorders to body worn cameras to security management software. Motorola Solutions says the IndigoVision range of products, global presence and customer base are "highly complementary" to Motorola Solutions' existing presence in video security. Among the benefits is enhanced geographical reach across a wider customer base. "The access we will now have to Motorola Solutions' range of innovative technologies will create new opportunities for IndigoVision and enable us to bring an exciting proposition to the market that allows us to further deliver on our goal of delivering safety, security and business intelligence," says Pedro Vasco Simoes, Chief Executive Officer of IndigoVision. "We share IndigoVision's commitment to providing next-generation, end-to-end video security solutions that enhance safety, security and efficiency," says John Kedzierski, Senior Vice President, Video Security Solutions, Motorola Solutions.

With just days left until the planned industry trade show, Reed Exhibitions has canceled ISC West over concerns about the COVID-19 coronavirus. Here is the statement on the decision: 'We at ISC West want to express our concern for everyone impacted by the COVID-19 coronavirus. Based on our close monitoring of ongoing developments with the virus, recent reports from public health officials and extensive consultation with our partners in the global security community, ISC West, scheduled to be held March 17-20, will now occur in July at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. We take pride in offering vital business opportunities to our customers, including networking, education and access to new products and technologies, and commit ourselves to making July’s ISC West 2020 event live up to high standards. Over the coming weeks, along with ISC West’s Premier Sponsor SIA - we will continue to serve the industry, creating ways to connect, collaborate and keep our world moving during this difficult period.'

With growing concerns over the COVID-19 coronavirus, Motorola Solutions and its Avigilon brand have released a statement on their decision to pull out of this year's ISC West. The trade show, one of the biggest in the security industry, hosts over 30,000 security professionals and over 1000 exhibitors each year.  The company states: "After careful consideration, we have withdrawn from this year’s ISC West trade show due to the widespread impact of the coronavirus." Official sources of updates "While ISC West is one important opportunity to demonstrate the power of Motorola Solutions' video security and analytics portfolio, the safety and well-being of our employees, customers and partners is our top priority. We are grateful to the ISC West organizers for their understanding and look forward to attending and supporting future ISC West events." ISC West will occur as scheduled March 17th through 20th, 2020, says Reed Exhibitions, despite the concerns. A statement from the show organizers is as follows: "While we regret that some companies have made the decision not to take part in ISC West 2020, we are focused on making ISC West 2020 a successful, safe, and enjoyable event for all attendees and exhibitors."

ISC West will occur as scheduled March 17th through 20th, 2020, says Reed Exhibitions. Following is a statement from show organizers: We take pride in offering vital business opportunities to our customers, including networking, education and access to new products and technologies and are working diligently to ensure ISC West 2020 and our other events live up to our high standards. While we regret that some companies have made the decision not to take part in ISC West 2020, we are focused on making ISC West 2020 a successful, safe, and enjoyable event for all attendees and exhibitors. Close Monitoring Over the last few weeks, Reed Exhibitions and our partners in ISC West have been closely monitoring the COVID-19 virus and its impact on members of the global security community. We are collaborating closely with the Sands Expo Center and local public health authorities and following local, state and federal public health guidelines, including those issued by the CDC. We have additional precautionary measures in place, including enhanced cleaning and sanitization across all public areas and customer touchpoints in the show and we are constantly reviewing our health protection activities, public health messaging, hygiene and medical control measures with the aim of strengthening our COVID-19 response further in line with up to date public health advice and guidance, including that of the CDC. Health and Safety We will continue to provide updates on our website as we get closer to ISC West. The health and safety of our team members and guests is our utmost priority. Our policies and best practices are in close collaboration with our venue partner, Sands Expo Center. The Sands Emergency Management Team works closely with local officials and are taking appropriate steps to protect team members and guests as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Sands is prepared to follow any additional protocols or guidance, as they are made available by the CDC or SNHD.

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. Video surveillance technology provides added security for you, your family and your business 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 through these odd times 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 emergence of smartphones using iOS and Android is rapidly changing the landscape of the IT industry around the world. Several industries, such as digital cameras, car navigation, MP3, and PNP, have been replaced by equivalent or even better performance using smartphones. Smartphones provide increasing portability by integrating the functions of various devices into a single unit which allows them to connect to platforms with network-based services and offer new services and conveniences that have never been experienced before. These changes have expanded into the access control market. Although not yet widespread, ‘Mobile access cards’ is one of the terminologies that everyone has been talking about. RF cards used for access security are being integrated into smartphones just as digital cameras and MP3s were in the past. While people might forget their access cards at home in the morning, they seldom forget their smartphones. Using smartphones for access control increases entry access reliability and convenience. Mobile/smartphone access control A key aspect of mobile credential is that it makes it possible to issue or reclaim cards without face-to-face interaction As in other markets, the combination of smartphones and access cards is creating a new value that goes beyond the simple convenience of integration enhancing the ability to prevent unauthorized authentication and entrance. People sometimes lend their access cards to others, but it is far less likely they might lend their smartphone with all their financial information and personal information – to another person. This overcomes an important fundamental weakness of RF cards. Another valuable aspect of mobile credential is that it makes it possible to issue or reclaim cards without face-to-face interaction. Under existing access security systems, cards must be issued in person. Since card issuance implies access rights, the recipient’s identification must be confirmed first before enabling the card and once the card has been issued, it cannot be retracted without another separate face-to-face interaction. Mobile access cards In contrast, mobile access cards are designed to transfer authority safely to the user's smartphone based on TLS. In this way, credentials can be safely managed with authenticated users without face-to-face interaction. Mobile cards can be used not only at the sites with a large number of visitors or when managing access for an unspecified number of visitors, but also at the places like shared offices, kitchens and gyms, currently used as smart access control systems in shared economy markets. The market share of mobile access cards today is low even though the capability can offer real benefits to users and markets. While the access control market itself is slow-moving, there are also practical problems that limit the adoption of new technologies like mobile access cards. Use of Bluetooth Low Energy technology While NFC could be an important technology for mobile credential that is available today on virtually all smartphones, differences in implementation and data handling processes from various vendors prevents universal deployment of a single solution to all devices currently on the market. Accordingly, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) has been considered as an alternative to NFC. Bluetooth is a technology that has been applied to smartphones for a long time, and its usage and interface are unified, so there are no compatibility problems. However, speed becomes the main problem. The authentication speed of BLE mobile access card products provided by major companies is slower than that of existing cards. Enhancing credential authentication speed Authentication speed is being continuously improved using BLE's GAP layer and GATT layers The second problem is that mobile access cards must be accompanied by a supply of compatible card readers. In order to use mobile access cards, readers need to be updated but this is not a simple task in the access control market. For 13.56 MHz smart cards (which were designed to replace 125 kHz cards), it has taken 20 years since the standard was established but only about half of all 25 kHz cards have been replaced so far. Legacy compatibility and the need for equivalent performance, even with additional benefits, will drive adoption timing for the Access Control market. While BLE technology helps resolve the compatibility problem of mobile access cards, it can identify some breakthroughs that can solve the speed problem. Authentication speed is being continuously improved using BLE's GAP layer and GATT layers, and new products with these improvements are now released in the market. Making use of key improvements allows Suprema's mobile access card to exhibit an authentication speed of less than 0.5 seconds providing equivalent performance to that of card-based authentication. AirFob Patch MOCA System's AirFob Patch addresses the need for technological improvements in the access control market in a direct, cost effective, and reliable way – by offering the ability to add high-performance BLE to existing card readers – enabling them to read BLE smartphone data by applying a small adhesive patch approximately the size of a coin. This innovative breakthrough applies energy harvesting technology, generating energy from the RF field emitted by the existing RF reader – then converting the data received via BLE back into RF – and delivering it to the reader. By adding the ability to use BLE on virtually any existing RF card reading device, MOCA allows greater ability for partners and end users to deploy a technologically-stable, high performance access control mobile credential solution to their employees, using devices they already own and are familiar with. Adding MOCA AirFob Patch eliminates the need to buy and install updated readers simply to take advantage of mobile credential, lowering costs and risks, and increasing employee confidence and convenience. Growth forecast of mobile access card market in 2020 In 2020, forecasts show that the mobile access card market will grow far more rapidly Several companies have entered the mobile access card market, but they have not set up a meaningful product solution stream until 2019. In 2020, forecasts show that the mobile access card market will grow far more rapidly. Reviewing new entries into the market allows identification of the latest products that provide improving solutions to compatibility and speed problems. MOCA AirFob Patch addresses development plans in process today that overcome the legacy installed base of card readers – allowing rapid creation of an environment that can make immediate use of BLE mobile access cards. Integrated mobile digital ID With proven usability and within suitable environments, mobile access cards will also begin to make inroads into other markets, not just the access control market. In the sharing economy market, which seeks access management without face-to-face interaction, the integrated mobile digital ID led by the 'DID Alliance' will serve as a technical tool that can be used in access authentication – forging increasing links between the access control and digital ID markets.

Large event venues spend significant resources on physical security, and the vast majority invest in video surveillance systems as a way of monitoring public areas such as parking lots, garages and seating, as well as “backstage” areas such as loading docks and offices. Even though the camera footage is often preserved for investigating incidents, for the most part, video footage goes untapped because – realistically – security staff cannot constantly and efficiently monitor cameras in real-time or review the high volumes of archived video. Video Analytics Powered by Artificial Intelligence Increasingly, event venues are overcoming this challenge and maximizing this video data by investing in intelligent video surveillance. In this article, I’d like to explore how the combination of traditional surveillance and groundbreaking video content analytics enables event venues to not only optimize physical security and safety, but also improve customer service, streamline operations, and gather valuable business intelligence. Deep learning and artificial intelligence-based video content analytic systems detect, identify, extract, and catalog all the objects that appear in video footage, based on classes and attributes such as gender, appearance similarity, color or size. This – along with behavioral detection, such as object interactions, dwell times, and navigation paths, as well as face and license plate recognition – enables searchable, actionable and quantifiable analysis of video. The technology makes it easy for users to accelerate post-event investigations, improve situational awareness, and derive critical business insights from video data. Accelerate post-event investigations, improve situational awareness, and derive critical business insights Accelerating Investigations and Real Time Response Where there are crowds, it’s not uncommon for medical or criminal incidents to transpire. In the aftermath, security teams must quickly understand the scene and, by making video searchable, video analytics helps them efficiently gather information or evidence from multiple camera. Whereas a manual search of video footage would require hours, if not days, of valuable time and staff resources – while being subject to human error – a video content analytics system enables effective multi-video search using a variety of filters, so that post-incident investigations can be focused and, thereby, accelerated. For instance, if witnesses claim that a man in a yellow shirt caused a disturbance and then drove away in a blue pickup truck, security could filter video to review instances where people or vehicles matching those descriptions appeared, and then focus their investigation on relevant video evidence. For the same example, if the perpetrator was still at large in the venue, security managers would want to track the person’s movements and, ultimately, apprehend him. Using the same cataloged metadata that drives video search, intelligent video surveillance accelerates real-time response to developing situations from threats and suspicious behaviors to emergencies, or even any behavior that requires closer monitoring or intervention. Something as mundane as an unwieldy queue forming at a concession stand, can translate into alerting logic that increases operators’ situational awareness and ability to effectively intervene when time is of the essence. By understanding developing situations in real-time, they can respond more quickly to prevent or solve a problem. Rule-based real time alerts Users can configure rule-based real-time alerts, based on specific scenarios – such as when people counts in the defined space next to the cashier are higher than the specified threshold, indicating a queue, or when vehicles are detected dwelling in a no-park zone or sensitive security area. In the case of the offender in the yellow shirt, security could configure alerts to notify for appearances of men in yellow shirts or blue pickup trucks within the event complex. If they’re able to extract the perpetrator’s face or license plate from the video search, security officers can also identify and track the specific person and vehicle of interest. Intelligent video surveillance users can compile “watchlists” Object recognition is helpful for tracking specific, identified threats, but it can also be leveraged for locating missing persons or vehicles or offering VIP services to guests who comply. Intelligent video surveillance users can compile “watchlists” – that include persons of interest, such as past agitators, recognized criminals or terrorists, missing persons or VIPs – to be alerted when matches for these faces appear in video. Face recognition can also be used to differentiate recognized employees from visitors that are not authorized to be in certain spaces, to prevent security breaches. Because camera conditions aren’t always optimal for “in the wild” face and license plate recognition – where lighting conditions or camera angles don’t always allow for a pristine face or plate capture – it is critical to have a comprehensive video content analysis tool for triggering alerts based object classifications and non-personally-identifiable parameters is critical. Optimizing Operations Based on Business Intelligence While having real-time situational awareness is crucial for proactive intervention to developing situations, understanding long-term activity and trends can be equally important for an events venue or stadium. With video analytics, video surveillance data can be aggregated over time to generate statistical intelligence, trend reports, and data visualizations for operational intelligence. This capability transforms video surveillance from a siloed security tool to an intelligence platform with broad value for business groups across the organization: Marketing departments can gain visitor demographic information for targeted advertising and product placements. On-site retailers can uncover how visitors navigate their stores and the products or spaces that draw the most attention. Property management can follow heatmaps demonstrating where visitors dwell and the durations they stay at certain exhibits or areas, to base rental and leasing fees on actionable and quantifiable intelligence. Operations managers can more effectively plan and hire staff for events, by analyzing visitor traffic trends, entry and exit points and occupancy statistics.   Video surveillance data can be aggregated over time to generate statistical intelligence For these reasons and more, event organizations that already rely on CCTV networks, should consider how to better leverage those existing investments to deliver substantial value across the organization: By making video searchable, actionable and quantifiable, intelligent video surveillance empowers event managers to enhance public safety and physical security, while also streamlining operations and improving customer service.

Spread of the novel coronavirus has jolted awareness of hygiene as it relates to touching surfaces such as keypads. No longer in favor are contact-based modalities including use of personal identification numbers (PINs) and keypads, and the shift has been sudden and long-term. Both customers and manufacturers were taken by surprise by this aspect of the virus’s impact and are therefore scrambling for solutions. Immediate impact of the change includes suspension of time and attendance systems that are touch-based. Some two-factor authentication systems are being downgraded to RFID-only, abandoning the keypad and/or biometric components that contributed to higher security, but are now unacceptable because they involve touching. Touchless biometric systems in demand The trend has translated into a sharp decline in purchase of touch modality and a sharp increase in the demand for touchless systems, says Alex Zarrabi, President of Touchless Biometrics Systems (TBS). Biometrics solutions are being affected unequally, depending on whether they involve touch sensing, he says. Spread of the novel coronavirus has jolted awareness of hygiene as it relates to touching surfaces such as keypads “Users do not want to touch anything anymore,” says Zarrabi. “From our company’s experience, we see it as a huge catalyst for touchless suppliers. We have projects being accelerated for touchless demand and have closed a number of large contracts very fast. I’m sure it’s true for anyone who is supplying touchless solutions.” Biometric systems are also seeing the addition of thermal sensors to measure body temperature in addition to the other sensors driving the system. Fingerscans and hybrid face systems TBS offers 2D and 3D systems, including both fingerscans and hybrid face/iris systems to provide touchless identification at access control points. Contactless and hygienic, the 2D Eye system is a hybrid system that combines the convenience of facial technology with the higher security of iris recognition. The system recognises the face and then detects the iris from the face image and zeros in to scan the iris. The user experiences the system as any other face recognition system. The facial aspect quickens the process, and the iris scan heightens accuracy. TBS also offers the 2D Eye Thermo system that combines face, iris and temperature measurement using a thermal sensor module. TBS's 2D Eye Thermo system combines face, iris and temperature measurement using a thermal sensor module Another TBS system is a 3D Touchless Fingerscan system that provides accuracy and tolerance, anti-spoofing, and is resilient to water, oil, dust and dirt. The 2D+ Multispectral for fingerprints combines 2D sensing with “multispectral” subsurface identification, which is resilient to contaminants and can read fingerprints that are oily, wet, dry or damaged – or even through a latex glove. In addition, the 3D+ system by TBS provides frictionless, no-contact readings even for people going through the system in a queue. The system fills the market gap for consent-based true on-the-fly systems, says Zarrabi. The system captures properties of the hand and has applications in the COVID environment, he says. The higher accuracy and security ratings are suitable for critical infrastructure applications, and there is no contact; the system is fully hygienic. Integration with access control systems Integration of TBS biometrics with a variety of third-party access control systems is easy. A “middleware” subsystem is connected to the network. Readers are connected to the subsystem and also to the corporate access control system. An interface with the TBS subsystem coordinates with the access control system. For example, a thermal camera used as part of the biometric reader can override the green light of the access control system if a high temperature (suggesting COVID-19 infection, for example) is detected. The enrollment process is convenient and flexible and can occur at an enrollment station or at an administration desk. Remote enrollment can also be accomplished using images from a CCTV camera. All templates are encrypted. Remotely enrolled employees can have access to any location they need within minutes. The 3D+ system by TBS provides frictionless, no-contact readings even for people going through the system in a queue Although there are other touchless technologies available, they cannot effectively replace biometrics, says Zarrabi. For example, a centrally managed system that uses a Bluetooth signal from a smart phone could provide convenience, is “touchless,” and could suffice for some sites. However, the system only confirms the presence and “identity” of a smart phone – not the person who should be carrying it. “There has been a lot of curiosity about touchless, but this change is strong, and there is fear of a possible second wave of COVID-19 or a return in two or three years,” says Zarrabi. “We really are seeing customers seriously shifting to touchless.”

Arteco’s VCA video analytics system is their latest new product, signaling a move from machine vision-based analytics to deep learning video analytics. A server – separate from the Arteco video management system (VMS) – manages the algorithms for the analytics. Arteco has been field-testing the product for a year and a half and had planned to launch it officially at ISC West in March (which was postponed). In lieu of the trade show launch, the company has been presenting the product (along with partners) through a series of webinars. The deep learning video analytics product operates out of the box – “just turn it on,” says Steve Birkmeier, Arteco VP of Sales. Functionality is based on “training” of pre-classified objects, such as differentiating between a person, an animal, a vehicle, or just clutter. The deep learning library focuses on people and vehicles. Detection and identification The new system detects everything in the field of view The new system detects everything in the field of view and only identifies what the operator is looking for, thus reducing false alarms. Any identified object is provided with an accuracy reading (e.g., 92% confident it is a human.) The system can be set up from the graphical user interface (GUI). Arteco VCA (video content analysis) also uses analytics rules, such as “if A+B=C, then do D.” Therefore, an abandoned object may elicit a different response than a violated area. With roots in the industrial automation market of the early-2000s, Arteco offers an event-based video management system (VMS) platform. That is, their emphasis is on identifying and providing video at the moment something happens rather than managing a vast amount of video that shows, in effect, nothing of interest. Arteco’s system, providing functionality expected in a full-featured VMS, is designed around the need to react to exceptions and events. Video verification “We can pull in events from any type of system and provide the related video,” says Steve Birkmeier, Arteco VP of Sales. “It can be access control, fire, intrusion, perimeter security, radar or microwave barriers, vape sensors, license plate recognition, or whatever.” An open connector, xml framework enables Arteco to interface with other systems and provide video verification of events. In addition to a focus on event-based video, Arteco also emphasizes ease of use, building on their 20-year history with video analytics. Another point of differentiation is their open architecture that easily and repeatably enables incorporation of third-party “events.” Finally, Arteco’s systems are competitively priced (less expensive), including flexible pricing and licensing structure to maximize value for a customer.  In addition to security, there are multiple operational applications that use video verification In addition to security, there are multiple operational applications that use video verification. For example, integration with warehouse management software using metadata from warehouse surveillance video can provide a searchable database. An operator can enter a purchase order number, for instance, and the system provides video associated with that sale.  The role of video in physical security Arteco has traditionally been a strong player in the utilities vertical, where event-based video management is useful to keep watch on high-value assets located in remote areas with little physical security. Another strong vertical is car dealerships in the United States, including security and loss prevention applications as well as integration with fleet management (using RFID and/or license plate reading). Arteco’s heat mapping capabilities can help a car dealer analyze customer activity to guide merchandising decisions, in the same way a retail store might. Big-box stores are another application for Arteco’s combination of marketing analytics, security and loss prevention.  Arteco’s strength is also proving useful in the emerging, highly regulated cannabis industry. State regulations require that each marijuana plant be tagged, and systems are required to provide total chain of custody records from “seed to sale.” In the case of Arteco, video associated with a specific plant tag is available at each stage of growth, production and sale. Coronavirus and video management The analytics can detect when people are grouped together closer than 2 meters As an Italian company, Arteco has already applied its deep-learning VCA product at city centers in Italy, which was hard hit by the novel coronavirus. The analytics can detect when people are grouped together closer than 2 meters, for example, and can provide an alarm if social distancing requirements related to the coronavirus are not being observed. The system can also detect and confirm the use of face masks at an entrance. Tracking that number – the percentage of customers who comply – in real time might offer additional peace of mind for high-risk customers entering a store, for example. Birkmeier contends the world has been changed forever by the pandemic, although acceptance over time of new technologies being introduced will vary greatly by geographic location. Already, in the last decade or so, acceptance of video surveillance has been greater, even in the U.S. market, he says. ”More often you hear ‘why don’t you have cameras’ rather than ‘I don’t like these camera here,’” he comments.

Even though ISC West 2020 was canceled, many of the product introductions planned for the trade show still happened. For example, physical security and secure identification company Identiv introduced the Hirsch Velocity Cirrus and MobilisID. Hirsch Velocity Cirrus is a cloud-based Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) solution. It is an optimal solution for both end-users and integrators, with lower upfront costs, reduced maintenance, enhanced portability, and the future-proof assurance of automatic security updates and feature sets. Smart mobile physical access control solution Identiv’s MobilisID is a smart mobile physical access control solution that uses Bluetooth and capacitive technologies to allow frictionless access to a controlled environment without the need to present a credential. We caught up with Jason Spielfogel, Identiv’s Director of Product Management, to discuss the new products and other topics. Q: How is Identiv positioned in the market as a whole? What philosophy drives your product offerings? What vertical markets do you target? Every customer needs every one of these components Spielfogel: Identiv provides a total solution. Our platforms provide access control hardware and software, video surveillance and analytics, door access readers, and ID credentials, both cards and mobile, for a variety of vertical markets: Federal government, state, local and education government agencies (SLED), healthcare, schools, banks/financial services, retail, airports and transportation, and infrastructure. Every customer needs every one of these components in every physical security deployment, and we ensure that all parts are working together at all times, even as technology continues to evolve. With that said, our philosophy is very customer-centric, and we position ourselves as a trusted partner. Our products and technology platform always strive to reflect and anticipate the environment our customers are facing, both in terms of technical requirements and functional capabilities. Q: How does the MobilisID system eliminate "friction?" Spielfogel: Identiv’s MobilisID eliminates the “friction” of access control by forgiving the user from presenting a physical credential to the reader. A simple wave of their hand over the MobilisID reader establishes a connection, and the reader reads their mobile device’s credential from the MobilisID app.  No badge or access card to read, and no contact with the reader, makes this a frictionless access control experience. Administrative friction is also eliminated because there is no physical credential to issue or withdraw; it’s all done via the MobilisID Manager. Hirsch Velocity Cirrus is a cloud-based Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) solution Q: Discuss the advantages of Bluetooth over competing technologies. Bluetooth offers a blend of reliability and specificity Spielfogel: There are two primary competing technologies: WiFi and Near Field Communication (NFC). The problem with WiFi is that it’s not location-specific. In other words, the WiFi router can’t tell which door the user is near. NFC has the opposite problem in that it’s impossible to get credential reads unless the phone is presented within an inch or two of the reader. Bluetooth offers a blend of reliability and specificity to create frictionless access. Q: "Touchless" has always been a big selling point. Doesn't the coronavirus improve the outlook for these systems even more? Spielfogel: The coronavirus certainly highlights the value of frictionless access. But the vast majority of access systems today use proximity which was already touchless. But for systems using touchpads or contact-based credentialing, certainly frictionless is offering some alternatives that would help keep employees and visitors safer in the current climate. Q: How else might the current pandemic change the security market forever (i.e., more teleworking?) Spielfogel: Permanent changes are not likely, but it does force security directors to rethink how their employees interact physically with systems for both physical and logical access. As a result, we might see accelerated adoption of some emerging technologies, such as greater use of mobile logical access solutions, as well as frictionless physical access control. We’ve already seen an uptick in our smart card reader and token line and our Thursby enterprise and personal mobility offering during the coronavirus pandemic. Q: There are a lot of cloud systems in the access control space. How is your Cirrus cloud product different? Velocity already has all those features Spielfogel: Cirrus is different from many others in that it’s built on one of the most mature, feature-rich, secure physical access solutions available today – Hirsch hardware and Velocity Software. While many competitors are scrambling to add features to their relatively new ACaaS platforms, Velocity already has all those features. While they are building up their encryption capabilities and cybersecurity testing, we’ve already been doing that for two decades. We certainly have some more development ahead of us for Cirrus, but most of it is just surfacing features we already have into the Cirrus interface. Q: How do you guide customers as their needs change? Spielfogel: Whether users want solutions that are on-prem, in the cloud, or anything in between, Identiv’s full architecture ensures that customers can adopt and migrate to new solutions as they see fit. No two customers are alike, so providing the flexibility to gradually update or change systems is a real differentiator. Our competitors either want customers to jump all at once to the cloud or push to keep everything on-prem/legacy. CSOs and CISOs live in a different world: They've got it all to deal with.  We're there with them across all of it, because that's the true reality.

On December 11 to 16, 2018, the 14th FINA World Swimming Championships was held at the Olympic and International Expo Center in Hangzhou, China. Nearly 1,000 world swimming stars from 178 countries and regions competed here, creating a new glory with breaking 9 world records and 22 event records. The Chinese team won three gold medals, five silver medals and five bronze medals with the total medal number ranking the third in the world. The World Swimming Championships is one of the world's highest-level international swimming events. It is also the highest-standard individual international sporting event ever held in Hangzhou. For an international sporting event of this scale, the safety and security of the venues are of paramount importance. Security Monitoring Equipment As an important guarantee force for the security of the World Swimming Championships, Dahua Technology ensured the event’s safety with the host spirit and a great sense of responsibility. Dahua Technology once again shouldered the mission of guarding international events after successfully guaranteeing the G20 Hangzhou Summit. Dahua Technology provided a complete set of professional intelligent security monitoring equipment and system solutions In the periphery and outside of the venue, important entrances and exits, various passages and commanding points in the venues and security commanding headquarters, Dahua Technology provided a complete set of professional intelligent security monitoring equipment and system solutions, assisted the security department to establish security command headquarters, refined the security deployment of the venues and realized the full coverage of security monitoring from the periphery to the stadium and from the bottom to the commanding heights, facilitating the safe and smooth host of the 2018 Hangzhou FINA World Swimming Championships. Dahua turned the cameras inside and outside the stadium into ‘smart brains’ to guarantee the safety of every corner of the Championships Intelligence Equipment At the venue of the 2018 Hangzhou FINA World Swimming Championships - the surrounding area and interior of the Hangzhou Olympic and International Expo Center, Dahua Technology has teamed up to deploy a number of professional intelligent HD PTZ cameras, fiber cameras, bullet cameras, domes, transmission and other intelligence equipment, covering all areas within the venue, which helped the security department to control all corners inside and outside the stadium in real time so that to ensure the safety of the venue and the event. Dahua Technology combined the requirements of ‘first-class venue facilities, first-class organization guarantee, first-class opening and closing ceremonies, and first-class city image’ in the Championships, focused on key links and built a set of intelligent security video management system with the support of advanced technology platform. Integrated Control System It integrated control system, storage and management, and enjoyed the advantages of simple deployment and operation, flexible combination, excellent performance, and a high level of security and stability. It turned the cameras inside and outside the stadium into ‘smart brains’ to guarantee the safety of every corner of the Championships, meeting the high-level security needs of the event. Dahua Technology set the command and dispatch of the security department as the core At the security command headquarters of the site, Dahua Technology set the command and dispatch of the security department as the core, with high-definition tiled LCD screens as the display carriers and brought more intuitive and flexible display and control to the security management of the venues before and after the event to ensure the real-time handling, efficient command and visual control of the entire venues, thus winning the praise of the security department leaders. Display Control Equipment On the evening of December 16, the 2018 FINA Annual Awards Ceremony was held at the Hangzhou International Expo Center. As a ceremony of the most authoritative awards, with the largest scale and the greatest number of world-class swimming athletes in the global water sports field, Dahua Technology assisted the security units to reuse a large number of equipment around the venue, including intelligent cameras, storage, management platforms and display control equipment, making sure the ceremony was successfully being held. As an essential force in the escort 2018 World Swimming Championships, Dahua Technology actively devoted to the security work. Stationed professional and technical personnel were responsible for on-site equipment support, achieving zero failure of the equipment, successfully completion of the tasks, and winning the praise of the security department leaders.

A comprehensive video surveillance solution consisting of 96 cameras from Dahua Technology UK is being installed at the striking Fort Dunlop commercial and retail site, overlooking the M6 motorway in Birmingham. Dahua-Champion Security’s Video Solution Built for Dunlop Rubber, Fort Dunlop became the tyre-maker’s flagship production facility and at one time was the world’s largest factory, employing 3,200 workers. After production stopped in the 1980s, the building lay derelict before being redeveloped into 360,000 square feet of office and retail space, also now with an adjoining hotel. Much of the site’s previous video surveillance system was installed during the refurbishment in 2006, but with advances in modern technology, it was felt that the current system was no longer meeting basic requirements. An external consultant assessed the site and put forward plans for an upgrade. Bromsgrove-based Champion Security Installations won the bid for the upgrade project. Installed over two phases, the design consists of a total of 96 static and PTZ cameras from full HD to 4K resolutions 4K NVR, PTZ and Dome Cameras Installed over two phases, the design consists of a total of 96 static and PTZ cameras from full HD to 4K resolutions. Cameras include the 12MP panoramic internal IPC-EBW81230 fisheye camera, which uses H.265/H.264 triple-stream encoding, and the external panoramic IPC-PDBW8802 dome camera, with four 2-Megapixel progressive scan CMOS sensors and day/night functionality. Images are managed and recorded by a 128-channel, Ultra 4K NVR 616 network video recorder. “Having undertaken a full review of the security systems at Fort Dunlop, it became clear that a replacement CCTV system was required to ensure protection of the staff, visitors and building,” said a spokesperson from Savills. “Three different options were presented by contractors, but it quickly became clear that the Dahua system presented by Champion Security met our brief. The system installed has changed the way we monitor and protect our asset, and its ease of use has been a revelation to our site staff.” IP CCTV Security System A spokesperson from Champion Security Installations added, “We have worked with the management of Fort Dunlop for a number of years now, so we designed the new IP CCTV system in consultation with them. The aim was to meet all of the different security, health and safety criteria, as well as ensure ease of use for the operators. "Having installed Dahua equipment at a number of sites, we invited them to assist with the design of the Fort Dunlop system using a number of their new products. Working in conjunction with Dahua and Oprema Ltd, the project was delivered on time and within budget.”

The large crowds that regularly flock to downtown Houston, Texas, known as GreenStreet, call for heightened security measures. However, the 570,000-square-foot mixed-use center needed to balance a high level of security while maintaining an open and inviting environment that accommodates numerous businesses, delivery drivers, service providers and others who need open access to the property.  With an eye towards improving both security and efficiency, the property’s owners decided it was time for a system upgrade. Choosing Hanwha Techwin Working with Houston-based Today’s Integration Inc., GreenStreet evaluated offerings from a number of vendors before selecting Hanwha Techwin as its video surveillance solutions provider. The decision was based on the quality, functionality, versatility and expandability of Hanwha Techwin’s products. Through SSM, GreenStreet’s security personnel can also enter log notes to maintain detailed activity records Today’s Integration designed an advanced video surveillance solution built on Samsung Security Manager (SSM) video management software. The system allows GreenStreet’s security staff to monitor live and recorded video, control PTZ cameras and communicate via two-way audio from a central command center. The system employs multiple Samsung 5080R IP dome cameras, SNP-5200H PTZ dome cameras and 6084R fixed cameras. The system’s NVRs are located in a server room and are connected directly to cameras for recording and to SSM for video playback. Video is transmitted across GreenStreet’s network via hybrid fiber, connecting the multi-site buildings to distribution switches, which also provide PoE to the Samsung cameras also implemented by Today’s Integration, Inc. providing a turn-key solution.  Implementing New Security Measures When vendors, contractors or service providers arrive at the bay doors, they press the intercom’s call button to contact GreenStreet’s security staff at the control center. Simultaneously, a live video feed pops up on-screen in the security command center, allowing staff to see and communicate with the individual at the door. Through SSM, GreenStreet’s security personnel can also enter log notes to maintain detailed activity records.  The system has also proven effective in assisting the Houston Police Department, which requests video from time. Best of all, the video surveillance solution is easily scalable, allowing more cameras and NVRs to be added as GreenStreet continues to grow and expand.

With a history dating back to the 1850s, the Sioux City Public Museum has evolved from its original focus on natural science to a broader emphasis on preserving the area’s heritage, offering a variety of educational programmes, events, and historical exhibitions valued at more than $2 million. Having outgrown its former location in a prominent Victorian-era mansion, the museum moved to a new downtown site in April 2011—a modern, open-concept building that has become known as one of the premier cultural destinations in Siouxland and beyond. With more than 5,000 visitors each month, the Sioux City Public Museum has made public safety and asset protection top priorities. Chosen for its advanced management features, ease-of-use, and exceptional image clarity, the Avigilon high-definition security system has played a key role in helping the museum meet its security goals.The Avigilon high-definition security system is used to deter criminal behavior and to safeguard valuable artefacts Crime Mitigation Located in the heart of downtown, the Sioux City Public Museum is a 55,000 square foot facility with an outdoor plaza, loading dock at the rear, and skyway connected to public parking. “Because of the size of the building, as well as its location in an area known for attracting a transient crowd, we wanted an advanced, high-definition security system to monitor people coming and going from our facility around the clock,” explained Steven Hansen, museum director at the Sioux City Public Museum. “We use the Avigilon high-definition security system to deter criminal behavior and to safeguard our valuable artefacts.” Based on research and a strong recommendation from the City of Sioux City facilities manager, Hansen chose to work with Electric Innovations, a local provider of security system design, installation, and service who installed the Avigilon high-definition security system to monitor the entrances, permanent exhibition area, temporary exhibition area, and loading dock. “We needed an advanced, high-definition security system that would provide broad coverage, overcome architectural challenges in our open-concept building, and remain unobtrusive,” explained Hansen. “Providing excellent local support, Electric Innovations has installed the best quality security solution possible to deliver optimal system performance.”Each user can select relevant camera views from their own desktop Live Monitoring And Broad Coverage Administrators and exhibition staff at the Sioux City Public Museum manage the Avigilon high-definition security system using the Avigilon Control Center network video management software (NVMS) monitoring the system live throughout the day from their desktop computers. A permanent monitor has been set up in the main reception area to monitor visitors as they enter and exit the permanent exhibit space. The museum installed a suite of Avigilon cameras in the main exhibit areas as well as in hallways, key entry points, and at the loading dock, and can store 29 days of continuous security video on an Avigilon network video recorder (NVR). Without a permanent security staff, the museum’s administrators are responsible for the facility’s security in addition to all other operational responsibilities, so ease-of-use was a key requirement for the new system. “The Avigilon high-definition security system is very simple to use, providing each of us with a variety of camera views right from our desktop, making it much easier and less time-consuming to monitor throughout the day,” said Deanna Mayo, administrative assistant at the Sioux City Public Museum. “Because each user can select relevant camera views from their own desktop, we can ensure broader coverage of the museum at all times.”Avigilon’s image quality makes it much easier to identify events with greater accuracy Effective security “While our needs are pretty basic, we can quickly and easily identify people and events because of Avigilon’s simple and intuitive user interface,” confirmed Mayo. Avigilon Control Center provides full control over security video playback, making it easy for users to quickly retrieve evidence and speed up response times. “Avigilon Control Center software is 1,000 percent more effective than our previous analog-based system,” added Hansen. Hansen and Mayo have also been very impressed with Avigilon’s image quality, which makes it much easier to identify events with greater accuracy than before. “I recently spoke with the captain of the police force who is very pleased that we have invested in the Avigilon high-definition security system,” noted Hansen. “We are located in an area that has caused concern for the police, and we have noticed a marked reduction in trespassing since deploying the Avigilon high-definition security system.”Sioux City Public Museum will be able to reduce its insurance costs and protect itself against the threat of false liability claims Safe Educational Experience The Avigilon high-definition security system has played a critical role in helping the museum ensure public safety and protect its assets worth more than $2 million. “I am confident that the Avigilon high-definition security system will deliver a lower total cost of ownership than other solutions because it offers greater image quality and reliability, requires less maintenance, and will free up our time for other important tasks,” explained Hansen. By installing such an advanced security system, Sioux City Public Museum will also be able to reduce its insurance costs and can more effectively protect itself against the threat of false liability claims. “Most traveling exhibits stipulate strict security guidelines before they can be displayed in a new location,” commented Mayo. “With the Avigilon system in place, we are in a much better position to host new exhibits and share the latest collections to attract new audiences,” said Mayo. With the knowledge that activity is being accurately captured around the clock by the Avigilon high-definition security system, Sioux City Public Museum administrators and patrons alike can enjoy a greater sense of security as they experience the region’s past at this leading cultural institution. “Avigilon has delivered the quality, reliability, and ease-of-use we need to help us deliver a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience,” concluded Hansen. “We have invested in the best quality and most reliable products in the industry.”

The Monterey Bay Aquarium has a rich history of innovation. Since its founding in 1984, the facility has become one of the world’s leading public aquariums and ocean conservation organizations.   Monterey Bay Aquarium has produced significant insights into the life history of sharks, sea otters, and bluefin tuna. The aquarium also was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest, and in 2004 it was the first to successfully exhibit and return to the wild a young great white shark. It is therefore no surprise that the Monterey Bay Aquarium desired the most innovative and state-of-the-art cameras as a key component for its security system, and Arecont Vision was able to deliver what they required. Until recently, the Monterey Bay Aquarium relied upon up to 60 analog cameras for its video security needs Constant Surveillance And Monitoring The aquarium has a huge campus, with multiple separate properties and an average annual visitation of two million people. Until recently, the Monterey Bay Aquarium relied upon up to 60 analog cameras for its video security needs. With such a large area to cover and with so many people to monitor, this type of system proved increasingly unreliable and insufficient to its growing security needs. The aquarium’s security staff also found it a major inconvenience that accessories and other parts for the system were exclusive to the original provider, limiting the security team’s options both technically and financially. The footage from the analog cameras was monitored on monochrome screens and useful viewing of surveillance video was quite difficult at times. The quality of the images was low, and the inflexible nature of the cameras resulted in a number of blind spots throughout the aquarium’s large campus. Difficult Lighting Conditons The aquarium also has some very challenging lighting situations, requiring more specialized, versatile cameras in order to properly capture images.  “We have some very difficult light levels here. The reflections of the water tanks can make certain areas lighter on camera than they are in person, or vice-versa,” stated Thomas Uretsky, Director of Security and Emergency Management for the facility. The security team reached the point where they knew they needed to upgrade. “The system needed more flexibility, multiple views on one camera, the works,” Mr. Uretsky said. “Blind spots needed to be eliminated, and we wanted as close to a 360-degree view as possible.” After thorough research, San Jose, California-based security integrator NSI Systems recommended Arecont Vision for the camera solution.   The aquarium has a huge campus, with an average annual visitation of two million people Arecont Vision Surveillance Expertise Mr. Uretsky and the team at Monterey Bay Aquarium collaborated with Arecont Vision regarding what they were looking for, where coverage was needed, and how to best fit in into their budget. Monterey Bay Aquarium chose ExacqVision as their video management system, another solid partner to help upgrade their prior surveillance system. A range of different Arecont Vision cameras were ultimately deployed to serve the aquarium’s varying needs. Arecont Vision MicroDome cameras were ideal for the ticketing area and customer lines. The series includes Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) models, which can achieve clear images across extreme lighting conditions, such as those found in some of the indoor spaces at the aquarium. MicroDome cameras have an extremely low profile and only a 4” diameter, making them ideal for discreet security surveillance. When asked for his thoughts about the MicroDome camera, Mr. Uretsky responded, “They are small and nearly invisible to anyone who doesn’t know what they’re looking for. The fact that they have such a small footprint makes them ideal for us in the ticketing and front entrance areas.” The Monterey Bay Aquarium now has the unique and flexible camera solution it required, utilising 360-degree video Another favorite at Monterey Bay Aquarium were Arecont Vision SurroundVideo Omni G1 and G2 adjustable-view cameras. The SurroundVideo Omni series utilises a patented 360º track where each of its four-megapixel sensors can be moved to cover virtually any angle. Remote motorised focus simplified installation with the Omni G2. Combined with the ability to interchange lenses, the Monterey Bay Aquarium now has the unique and flexible camera solution it required. The customizable features of the camera also simplify future changes that may occur at the aquarium, saving time and money if construction or remodeling were to occur. “The SurroundVideo Omni cameras are some of our favourites because we are getting four cameras in one. They have the most flexibility,” said Kevin Wright, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s security manager. “Our blind spots are much more limited, and we don’t need to use nearly as many cameras as we previously had in those areas.” Although each camera offers four separate views, only a single PoE (Power over Ethernet) cable and a single software license is required for integration with the Exacq software, further reducing costs. Megapixel Camera Performance The system has performed incredibly well to date. Not only was it installed on time, but it was completed within budget. The Monterey Bay Aquarium monitors the system locally, 24-hours per day. The images are viewed on a dynamic video wall in the new Security Operations Centre. While most footage is viewed on-site, some cameras have been enabled with the Exacq software for remote monitoring at satellite offices. For example, holding areas for rescued sea otters can be viewed remotely by a research team.   Some cameras have been enabled with the Exacq software for remote monitoring off-site Arecont Vision cameras have helped the aquarium’s security department in a variety of ways, one of which is increasingly common: addressing bicycle theft. Individuals will sometimes access a public recreational trail that runs along the aquarium’s main campus to steal unattended bikes parked by visitors or staff. Unlike the previous analog surveillance system, Arecont Vision’s megapixel cameras are able to provide the security department with good views and high-resolution images when reporting such incidents to the police department. The project at Monterey Bay Aquarium fulfilled a vast array of surveillance requirements — indoor and outdoor scenes, large and small spaces, low- to high-lighting conditions — and Arecont Vision cameras addressed each of the challenges. The deployment of the new cameras made an impression on Mr. Uretsky and his team. Making Potential Security Solutions Reality One installation inspired ideas for another, and Arecont Vision helped make these potential security solutions a reality as well. The continual partnership between the aquarium, the system integrator, and Arecont Vision has resulted in an ongoing collaboration between the three entities. “The reason we went with Arecont Vision was because it has a niche where a lot of manufacturers don’t, with its multi-view cameras,” Mr. Uretsky stated. Arecont Vision pioneered the first multi-sensor megapixel panoramic cameras in the surveillance industry in 2006, and has continued to enhance their capabilities, introducing adjustable-view Omni cameras in 2014. “These cameras have been fundamental as we systematically replace our old cameras with newer, megapixel versions. We are always improving and always adding cameras, so each time we’ve installed them we’ve been pleased.”

Avigilon Corporation, provider of security solutions, announced it was selected to enhance security at Vodafone Park stadium, in Istanbul, Turkey, of Beşiktaş JK. Enhancing Spectator And Player Safety Vodafone Park opened in April 2016 and is the venue for national Süper Lig and UEFA Champions League games. It features over 43,000 stadium seats, 144 executive suites, and more than 4,000 sq. meters (43,055 sq. ft.) of restaurants, shops and parking. To enhance spectator and player safety Beşiktaş JK, in partnership with security systems integrator Sensormatic Güvenlik Hizmetleri, deployed a complete Avigilon surveillance solution that incorporated more than 500 Avigilon cameras, including the award-winning Avigilon 7K (30 MP) HD Pro camera line, Avigilon Dome, Bullet, and PTZ cameras, as well as Avigilon network video recorders and Avigilon Control Center (ACC) video management software.  Avigilon’s complete solution has enabled Beşiktaş JK operators to monitor and track activities during matches more efficiently The use of the Avigilon 7K (30 MP) HD Pro cameras allows Beşiktaş JK to cover wide areas of the stadium while simultaneously delivering exceptional image detail to zoom in and quickly identify and respond to potential security events. Combined with the advanced search functions of ACC, Avigilon’s complete solution has enabled Beşiktaş JK operators to monitor and track activities during matches more efficiently. This has helped to decrease illegal entry at Vodafone Park, helping to create a safer, more enjoyable customer experience. Smooth Installation “Avigilon’s solutions have helped us create a safe and inviting environment for our fans, which has ultimately allowed us to sell more tickets,” said Serhan Abaç, Stadium Marketing and Event Director at Beşiktaş JK. “The installation of Avigilon’s solutions was smooth and the system has been providing such positive results that other clubs now want to reach this level of security and technology in their stadiums.” Avigilon’s high-resolution cameras, artificial intelligence driven video analytics technology, and video management software solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of stadiums around the globe.

Superior image quality has been the “holy grail” of the video surveillance business for several years. A transition to 4K images and a race to ever-higher pixel counts have dominated product development conversations for a while now. However, it’s now possible that the tide has turned. These days, data is sometimes more important than image quality, and increasing use of smaller-format mobile devices has helped to make image quality variations moot. As the industry changes, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s the next big thing in video image quality (beyond 4K and megapixel)?

When a fire or other emergency occurs in a building or facility, first responders depend on every available resource to ensure a safe and orderly evacuation and response. One element in any response plan is the facility’s physical security systems, including access control, video surveillance and intrusion detection. How can these systems contribute to an orderly response to a chaotic situation?  We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of security systems in the event of a fire or other emergency evacuation?

Ten years is a long time, but it seems to pass in an instant in the world of security. In terms of technology, 2010 is ages ago. Changes in the market have been transformative during that decade, and we called on our Expert Panel Roundtable to highlight some of those changes. We asked this week’s panelists: What was the biggest change in the security industry in the 2010-2019 decade?