Videotec Multiplexers  (2)

Critical infrastructure facilities that must secure large areas with extended outer boundary and numerous entry points, present a particularly difficult challenge when it comes to perimeter protection. As such, true end-to-end perimeter protection calls for the utilization of a sophisticated, multi-layered solution that is capable of defending against anticipated threats. Integrated systems that incorporate thermal imaging, visible cameras, radar and strong command and control software are crucial for covering the various potential areas of attacks. Let’s look at these technologies and the five key functions they enable to achieve an end-to-end solution that provides intrusion detection, assessment and defense for the perimeter. 1. Threat Recognition The first step in effectively defending against a threat is recognizing that it’s there. By combining state-of-the-art intrusion detection technologies, facilities can arm themselves with a head start against possible intruders. An exceptionally important aspect of effective perimeter protection is the ability to conduct 24-hour surveillance, regardless of weather conditions, environmental settings, or time of day. Visible cameras do not perform as well in low light scenarios and inclement weather conditions. However, thermal imaging cameras can provide constant protection against potential intruders, regardless of visual limitations, light source or many environmental factors. In fact, facilities such as power stations located near bodies of water can use thermal cameras to create what is known as a “thermal virtual fence” in areas where they are unable to utilize the protection of a physical fence or wall. Deterring suspicious activity can be achieved through real-time two-way audio, a simple but powerful tool Critical infrastructure applications require not only continuous video surveillance and monitoring, but also a solution that yields highly reliable intrusion detection, with fewer false alarms. This need makes advanced video analytics a must for any adequate surveillance system. Features like dynamic event detection and simplified data presentation are game changing in supporting accurate intrusion analysis and facilitating a proactive response. Advanced analytics will provide multiple automated alarm notification options, including email, edge image storage, digital outputs or video management software (VMS) alarms. Incorporating high quality, unique and adaptive analytics can virtually eliminate false alarms, allowing security personnel to respond more efficiently and effectively, while also lowering overall cost for the end user. While surveillance technologies such as radar, thermal imaging and visible cameras, or video analytics work well on their own, utilizing all of these options together provides an advanced perimeter detection system. For example, ground surveillance radar can detect possible threats beyond the fence line as they approach and send a signal to pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, triggering them to slew to a specific location. From there, embedded analytics and visible cameras can further identify objects, notify authorized staff, and collect additional evidence through facial recognition or high-quality photos. 2. Automatic Response Systems Once an intrusion attempt is discovered, it is important to act fast. Organizing a response system that can initiate actions based on GPS location data, such as the slewing of PTZ cameras, automated intruder tracking or activated lighting sensors, greatly increases staff’s situational awareness while easing their workload. For instance, thermal imagers deployed in conjunction with video analytics can be used to generate an initial alarm event, which can then trigger a sequence of other security equipment and notifications for personnel to eventually respond to. Having all of this in place essentially lays the entire situation out in a way that allows responders to accurately understand and evaluate a scene. Power stations located near bodies of water can use thermal cameras to create a “thermal virtual fence” in areas where they are unable to utilize the protection of a physical fence or wall 3. Deterring Suspicious Activity  After the designated auto-response mechanisms have activated and done their job, it is time for responders to acknowledge and assess the situation. From here, authorized personnel can take the next appropriate step toward defending against and delaying the threat. Deterring suspicious activity can be achieved through real-time two-way audio, a simple but powerful tool. Often, control room operators can diffuse a situation by speaking over an intercom, telling the trespasser that they are being watched and that the authorities have been notified. This tactic, known as ‘talk down’, also allows officers to view the intruder’s reaction to their commands and evaluate what they feel the best next step is. If individuals do not respond in a desired manner, it may be time to take more serious action and dispatch a patrolman to the area. 4. Delay, Defend, Dispatch And Handle The possible danger has been identified, recognized and evaluated. Now it is time to effectively defend against current attacks and slow down both cyber and physical perpetrators’ prospective efforts. Through the use of a well-designed, open platform VMS, security monitors can manage edge devices and other complementary intrusion detection and response technologies, including acoustic sensors, video analytics, access control and radio dispatch. A robust VMS also enables operators to control functions such as video replay, geographical information systems tracking, email alerts and hand-off to law enforcement. With the right combination of technologies, facilities can take monitoring and evidence collection to the next level The primary purpose of the delay facet of the overall perimeter protection strategy is to stall an attempted intrusion long enough for responders to act. Access control systems play a key role in realizing this objective. When a security officer sees a non-compliant, suspicious individual on the camera feed, the officer can lock all possible exits to trap them in one area all through the VMS. 5. Intelligence: Collect Evidence And Debrief More data and intelligence collected from an event equals more crucial evidence for crime resolution and valuable insight for protecting against future incidents. With the right combination of technologies, facilities can take monitoring and evidence collection to the next level. One innovative resource that has become available is a live streaming application that can be uploaded to smart phones and used for off-site surveillance. This app gives personnel the power to follow intruders with live video anywhere and allows operators to monitor alarm video in real-time. Geographic Information System (GIS) maps are computer systems utilized for capturing, storing, reviewing, and displaying location related data. Capable of displaying various types of data on one map, this system enables users to see, analyze, easily and efficiently. Multi-sensor cameras, possessing both visible and thermal capabilities, provide high-contrast imaging for superb analytic detection (in any light) and High Definition video for evidence such as facial ID or license plate capture. Integrating these two, usually separated, camera types into one helps to fill any gaps that either may normally have. Still, in order to capture and store all of this valuable information and more, a robust, VMS is required. Recorded video, still images and audio clips serve as valuable evidence in the event that a trial must take place to press charges. Control room operators can use data collection tools within their VMS to safely transfer video evidence from the field to the courtroom with just a few clicks of their mouse. More advanced video management systems can go a step further and package this data with other pertinent evidence to create a comprehensive report to help ensure conviction.

Technology is changing the look and function of today’s security control rooms. Old-school CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitors are giving way to the thinner, flat screen monitors in the control room environment, but the transition is gradual. Randy Smith of Winsted still sees many control rooms that need to make the conversion, which is a boon to his company’s business. Furniture today is designed differently to accommodate the thinner monitors, often with larger screens. Need For Integrated Rack Systems With the increase of IP-based systems comes the need for integrated rack systems that include advanced functionality such as cable management, adds Jim Coleman, National Sales Manager, AFC Industries. Server rooms are environmentally controlled by cooling systems and power systems monitored on the IP network. Low-profile flat screens allow centers to utilize space vertically, thus creating a smaller footprint for the consoles. Additionally, with IP-based systems, workstations will have a smaller footprint because there is less cumbersome equipment. In most cases the servers are stored in a secured, climate controlled environment to eliminate overheating of the servers and maintain their security, says Coleman. This environment also helps with cable and power management. AFC builds technical furniture racks that adhere to the precise needs of computer network server room operators. The company designs and fabricates LAN workbenches with versatile functionalities, and server room workstation racks that are scalable. There is a complete line of IT workbenches, IT computer racks and computer server rack mounts with flexible mounting options. In most cases the servers are stored in a secured, climate controlled environment to eliminate overheating of the servers and maintain their security Flexible Control Room Designs Matko Papic, Chief Technology Officer of Evans Consoles, says the transition from bulky CRT equipment to flat-screen (lower profile) monitors was a major disruption in control room design; it changed the whole dynamic. Another evolution is the use of IP video streaming, which allows more flexibility in manipulation of audio-video content, and requires more flexible control room designs. Another shift, driven by larger, higher-definition monitors, is a shift to fewer monitors that display more information. Instead of a smaller monitor for each information stream, larger monitors now consolidate that information into “dashboard” displays. Looking ahead, control rooms will need to be more flexible, both in the initial design and the ability to adapt to changing technology, says Papic. Legacy customers who are currently using PCs may be moving to more remote applications. Sit-stand equipment will continue to be increasingly prevalent. “There will be more emphasis on flexibility, technology integration, and the ability to change over the life of the system,” says Papic. Consolidation Of Multiple Operations Into A Single System A trend in security is consolidation of multiple physical operations into a single system, says Papic. As a result, more customers are taking more interest in alarm management and situational awareness. How is the technology being used in terms of alarm triggers? How can the systems react rapidly and provide information to a larger audience in the control room? These questions impact how control rooms are designed, and Evans Consoles can adapt lessons learned from other markets to these trends in the security arena. Greater use of technology is inevitable, says Coleman of AFC Industries. “It is virtually impossible for humans to monitor all security data at the street level in our cities,” he says. “As computers become more powerful and their programs more all-encompassing, we will see a greater shift to robotic and technology uses that will provide enhanced monitoring capabilities and safety reactions.” Read our Control Rooms series here

 Selecting the optimum power supply for a system is critical to an installation  When it comes to selecting power supplies, knowledge is power. Determining the power requirements of every systems product, taking into account their integration with one another is critical to ensure that you are selecting and installing the power solutions most appropriate for your installation. Such information will enable you to select the power supplies that will be required to keep your security system running efficiently in the long run. Paul Rizzuto, Technical Sales Manager, Altronix Corp outlines some of the key factors to consider when choosing the right power solution for security installations - including those of video surveillance systems and access control systems - and fire alarm systems. Questions to consider when selecting the optimum power supply Before commencing the evaluation and selection process, three fundamental questions/issues need be addressed:Approvals and conformance to norms: Are there any specific agency approvals that the installation must conform to?Each state, county and even municipality has their own requirements regarding agency approvals. There are a variety of compliance issues such as UL listings for video, access control and fire/life safety that need to be adhered to along with specific local codes. It's imperative that you check with the local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) to find out what agency listings you must conform to during the design process to assure your security system is in compliance before installing any components and power supplies. Features required: What are the application specific features required for the installation? Selecting power supplies for a security or fire alarm system is a complex process due to a number of variables Before starting the design process, a comprehensive analysis of the facility's security systems are required to determine feature sets of the power supplies. Up until recently, selecting power supplies often required the need to combine various components to deliver the functionality desired. For example, does the system need battery back-up in case of a power failure?  All that has changed with the introduction of a new breed of integrated power solutions that deliver both cost and installation advantages. Quantity, location and power requirements of the security system componentsWhat is the number of devices in the system, the power requirements for each, and their physical location?This information is necessary to determine the size and quantity of the power supplies, how many security devices they will run, and where they will be physically located.  It is always a good rule of thumb to add 20% more power to your calculations as a safety factor.  Alarm signal generation is a key consideration when dealing with power consumption in fire alarms systems Dealing with power consumption issues in fire alarm systems Power consumption is a primary issue when configuring fire alarm systems. One of the most critical considerations revolves around how alarm signals are activated. When an alarm condition exists, Notification Appliance Circuits (NAC) are output from the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) to activate notification appliances such as strobes and horns commonly used to indicate an emergency situation. The number of notification appliances to be activated, along with the current draw for each device and its distance from the FACP, sometimes makes the deployment of NAC Power Extenders a necessary system component. For example, in large commercial installations or multi-tenant buildings, the total current draw of the notification appliances may well exceed the power output of the FACP. In these instances, one or more NAC Power Extenders need to be installed for those notification appliances where the wire runs are too long for the FACP to deliver sufficient power.  Features to consider when selecting a NAC Power Extender: Number of Class A or Class B indicating circuits.Total power rating (ex. 6.5 amp, 8 amp or 10 amp).Number of Aux. power outputs with or without battery backup.Programmable outputs: SynchronizationTemporal Code 3Input to output follower mode.Enclosure capacity: Room for battery backupAmple knockouts and room for wiringAgency approvals UL, MEA, CSFM and FM.NAC Power Extenders are available with programmable features that maintain horn/strobe synchronization by either producing internally generated sync protocols utilized by major signal manufacturers, or by electronically repeating these sync protocols from the FACP outputs. Power supply requirements for access control systems - key standards to follow    To ensure safety any device designated to lock or unlock an exit must be connected to the fire alarm systemAccess control systems manage entry and exit points at a facility by means of controlled locking devices. NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) requires that any device or system intended to actuate the locking or unlocking of exits, must be connected to the facility's fire alarm system so that all doors will release when an alarm signal is generated.To comply with NFPA requirements, there are two classifications of locking devices that need to be addressed: Fail-Safe and Fail-Secure. Fail-Safe locking devices such as magnetic locks release when they lose power. Fail-Secure locking devices such as electric strikes unlock when power is applied and may be manually released from inside a secured area. This determines the manner in which your power solution removes or provides power and the sequence and timing of each action.Access control power supplies come in both AC and DC versions and some provide multiple voltages simultaneously. Features include independently trigger controlled Fail-Safe/Fail-Secure outputs, power supervision, battery charging and fire alarm interface. Wall and rack mount models are also available.To comply with NFPA requirements, there are two classifications of locking devices that need to be addressed: Fail-Safe and Fail-Secure Some systems may also require the installation of panic hardware devices. Upon activation, the devices' high current power demand can reach up to 16amps, but not all power supplies can handle these high inrush currents.  As a result, you need to specify a power supply designed for this type of application.  Some operate a single panic hardware device and require optional modules to add features like timing functions, output relays, fire alarm disconnect, or power for additional panic hardware devices.  Therefore, these "base" models almost always require additional modules to deliver the functionality you need and may not be cost effective. More advanced models offer integrated features and supply a comprehensive solution. In addition to the convenience of these integrated devices, they are highly cost efficient with respect to total cost of ownership and installation. Video surveillance systems - typical power consumption guidelinesVideo surveillance systems typically run 24/7/365 placing high demands on power supplies. These video power supplies need to deliver a clean and consistent source of 24VAC or 12VDC power to assure uninterrupted operation. Depending on the video component's specific power requirements and its location, there is a wide selection of power supplies to select from. They can be wall or rack mounted, designed for use indoors or outdoors, and feature AC or DC outputs. Configurations typically range from 1 to 32 outputs and some models offer additional features like 115 or 230VAC input with current ratings as high as 25 amps, power LED indicators, and PTC or fused protected outputs. Certain models provide both 24VAC and 12VDC to power both types of surveillance cameras simultaneously. Environmental conditions can affect the performance of video components and the power supply when situated outdoors A few additional variables to consider when selecting video surveillance power supplies include: Environmental conditions: Temperature differences due to change of seasons, day or  night, can often be extreme and can have a direct affect on the performance of both the video components and the power supply when located outdoors. Enclosures for outdoor power supplies should be rated to withstand the elements.Ground Isolation: In some cases, the surveillance cameras are not equipped with internal electrical isolation. Should this be the case, it's important to specify a power supply with this feature. Video Transmission Systems: For years, the use of structured cable has been an inexpensive method for transmitting video and data between head end equipment and camera systems. The introduction of UTP transceiver hubs with integral camera power make it possible to transmit both video and data via structured cable along with the power needed for the cameras. This is accomplished via video balun/combiners which pass the power and data to the camera and send the video back to the head end equipment. New highly versatile devices with integral power provide system designers with a highly integrated solution. This new breed of integrated device greatly reduces the time and expense of configuring and installing separate components while helping to minimize bandwidth requirements for large security systems. Paul RizzutoTechnical Sales Manager Altronix Corp  

With the goal of constantly improving the performance of its products, Videotec has now added the new video analysis and GeoMove functions to its NVX cameras. This versatile compact stainless-steel camera is already well known on the market for its exceptional corrosion resistance and for providing high image quality with Full HD, super low-light, 1080p, and 30x zoom, with bright clear colors in even the poorest lighting conditions. The NVX camera is used in the maritime sector onboard vessels or as part of traffic control in ports, as well as on railways, transport, and industrial process environments. Accurate detection The NVX has been enhanced with Videotec Analytics technology which integrates robust algorithms to ensure accurate detection in even the most adverse external environmental conditions. It offers the operator complete situational awareness at all times. The detection algorithm even works with rain, snow, or low contrast, camera vibrations, sudden changes in changes in light or shadows, and in the presence of small animals or insects. Alarm activation Violation of rules will activate the alarm and other programmed actions Depending on the rules set up by the user, an alarm is generated if an item enters, exits, appears, or stops for too long within an area. Any violation of these rules will activate the alarm and the other programmed actions. Up to ten rules for each preset can be quickly and easily set up. GeoMove function A particularly interesting feature is the possibility of geo-localizing the NVC video cameras on maps to support the new GeoMove and GeoMove&Track features in combination with one or more Videotec PTZ cameras. The GeoMove feature is very useful in perimeter surveillance systems and for port traffic monitoring because it lets the video cameras detect and capture any object through its geographic coordinates, even in critical visibility conditions. Integrated analytics The GeoMove function can be activated via an NVX camera with integrated Videotec Analytics which provides the target’s coordinates to one or more Videotec PTZ(s) and they, in turn, use the coordinates to frame the target. Coordinates can also be sent via third-party software, such as VMS (Video Management Software) or VTS (Vessel Tracking Service) for navigation control, or via radar control systems. GeoMove&Track function GeoMove&Track provides the advantage of having a turnkey detection, positioning, and tracking solution Furthermore, if the PTZ that receives the target’s coordinates has Videotec Analytics integrated, then it can also start the GeoMove&Track function, independently recognizing and autonomously tracking the geolocated target. Thanks to GeoMove&Track, the system made up of Videotec fixed and PTZ cameras provide the advantage of having a complete, turnkey detection, positioning, and tracking solution guaranteed by Videotec. Marine environment The NVX camera is Lloyd's Register Type Approval System Test Specification Number 1 certified and can therefore be used in marine environments. Such as on boats and ships on open decks, in enclosed spaces, in technical areas that are subject to the heat generated by other equipment, or as visual support for docking maneuvers. Weather protected The total protection against inclement weather and the option of cleaning the camera with high-pressure and high-temperature water jets is guaranteed by the IP66/IP67/IP68/IP69 protection grades. The NVX has been tested and certified from -40°C to +65°C. Models with an integrated wiper or with a polycarbonate window are available for use in the food industry. Design and integration Mounting an NVX is quick and easy, even in confined spaces, thanks to its compact design, lightweight, practical quick-fit connectors, and versatile modular support for mounting on walls, ceilings, or parapets. Developed entirely by the Videotec R&D team, NVX offers the Videotec guarantee of being a reliable, cyber-safe and future-proof platform that can be easily integrated with third-party products.

Videotec has expanded its range of communication boxes with the new COMB. This product has been designed for use in non-hazardous applications and is robust with its external polycarbonate and extraordinary resistance to external agents. COMB is much more than a simple junction box. It has everything that you need for a state-of-the-art installation and correct operation of one or more Videotec IP or analog cameras. It provides local low voltage power to connected devices. Functions and features COMB enables fast Ethernet connection thanks to the integrated Ethernet switch equipped with three RJ45 ports and an SFP port (MSA compliant) for fiber optic connection. COMB comes with an extended/industrial range of electronics. The internal board offers 2 bypasses for analog video signals and 2 bypasses for I/O signals with multipolar connectors. COMB can manage systems that consist of a Videotec PTZ camera with or without the Videotec washing kit; up to two Videotec fixed cameras with or without the Videotec washing kit; or one Videotec fixed camera and one Videotec PTZ without washing kits. Internally, the unit has been designed with easy cable access and convenient connection operations in mind. COMB guarantees maximum protection against impact (IK10) and weather (IP66/IP67/IP68/IP69, and NEMA TYPE 4X and TYPE 6P). Obtained Lloyd’s Register Marine Type Approval certification for the maritime and naval sector. It also complies with railway application standards. COMB is the competitive integrated solution for the professional installation of Videotec cameras in industrial and marine environments.

Videotec, a company with more than thirty years of experience in stainless steel product development for video surveillance in marine offshore/onshore and corrosive industrial environments, announces NXPTZ SERIES2, the new generation of PTZ Full HD video cameras with innovative and high-performance features for outdoor preventive security applications in the most difficult environmental conditions. PTZ product range The PTZ range has been completely revamped and expanded to include visible Day/Night Super low-light, FullHD 1080p-60fps video cameras with DELUX or SONY FCB-EV7520 technology, capable of producing impeccable image clarity even in the most difficult lighting conditions. New thermal PTZ or dual vision network PTZ models are also available for extreme precision in the detection and perimeter monitoring and high-risk environment monitoring and monitoring with poor lighting conditions. The integrated thermal video cameras also offer radiometry features for precise temperature readings, useful in monitoring industrial processes. Intrusion detection for outdoor applications Videotec analytics uses algorithms for accurate detection and precise auto-tracking in most adverse environmental conditions Advanced video analysis features are now available for these PTZ cameras, thanks to Videotec Analytics. This excellent new technology in preventive intrusion detection for outdoor applications, developed entirely by Videotec, uses very strong algorithms for highly accurate detection and precise and fluid auto-tracking even in the most adverse environmental conditions. The detection algorithm is particularly reliable even with the rain, snow, camera vibrations, low contrast, sudden changes in light or shadows, and in the presence of small animals or insects. Perimeter surveillance systems The new NXPTZ SERIES2 PTZ video cameras can be geo-localized on the maps to support the GeoMove and GeoMove&Track features. The GeoMove feature is very useful in perimeter surveillance systems and for port traffic control because it lets you capture any target through geographic coordinates, even in critical visibility or offshore conditions. Video management software In a video surveillance system, the GeoMove feature can typically be activated using a camera with Videotec Analytics on board, or through third-party software such as Video Management Software (VMS), which provide the geographic coordinates of a target and use them to guide the Videotec PTZ cameras to capture the target. The coordinates can also be sent in the same way using Vessel Tracking Services (VTS - navigation control services) or using radar control systems. Video analytics SERIES2 video camera can connect the PTZ over fiber optics owing to the SFP module slot on the base unit Furthermore, PTZ video cameras with Videotec Analytics on board can activate the GeoMove&Track feature. In this case, the Videotec PTZ camera that receives the coordinates of the target, thanks to the video analytics, can also recognize and autonomously follow the geo-localized target. Compared to the previous generation, the SERIES2 video cameras can easily connect the PTZ over fiber optics, thanks to the SFP module slot installed directly on the base of the unit. Operating efficiency The NXPTZ SERIES2 PTZ cameras can operate in corrosive environments, thanks to their solid construction in AISI 316L stainless steel with micro shot-peened and electro-polished surfaces, and the extreme precision adopted during the construction processes. The IP66/IP67/IP68/IP69 grades, in addition, to guarantee total protection against inclement weather, allows the device to be cleaned with high-pressure jets of hot water and temporary submersion. NXPTZT SERIES2 maintains maximum operating efficiency with temperatures from -40°F to +149°F. Quality, cyber security, reliability Videotec owns the design know-how for all of its products and this allows total control of mechanics, electronics, positioning, networking, software, and firmware. This represents a significant competitive advantage in meeting the needs of personalized solutions or integrations with third-party systems, all with the guarantee of Videotec quality, cyber security, and reliability.