Arecont Vision Network Video Recorders (NVR) / Network DVRs

Securing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in the transportation industry is multi-faceted for a multitude of reasons. Pressures build for transit industry players to modernise their security systems, while also mitigating the vulnerabilities, risks, and growth-restrictions associated with proprietary as well as integrated solutions. There are the usual physical security obstacles when it comes to increasingly integrated solutions and retrofitting updated technologies into legacy systems. Starting with edge devices like cameras and intelligent sensors acquiring video, analytics and beyond, these edge devices are now found in almost all public transportation like buses, trains, subways, airplanes, cruise lines, and so much more. You can even find them in the world’s last manually operated cable car systems in San Francisco. The next layer to consider is the infrastructure and networks that support these edge devices and connect them to centralized monitoring stations or a VMS. Without this layer, all efforts at the edge or stations are in vain as you lose the connection between the two. And the final layer to consider when building a comprehensive transit solution is the software, recording devices, or viewing stations themselves that capture and report the video. The challenge of mobility However, the transportation industry in particular has a very unique challenge that many others do not – mobility. As other industries become more connected and integrated, they don’t usually have to consider going in and out or bouncing between networks as edge devices physically move. Obviously in the nature of transportation, this is key. Have you ever had a bad experience with your cellular, broadband or Wi-Fi at your home or office? You are not alone. The transportation industry in particular has a very unique challenge that many others do not – mobility Can you trust these same environments to record your surveillance video to the Cloud without losing any frames, non-stop 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year? To add to the complexity – how do you not only provide a reliable and secure solution when it’s mobile, traveling at varying speeds, and can be in/out of coverage using various wireless technologies? Waiting to upload video from a transport vehicle when it comes into port, the station, or any centralized location is a reactive approach that simply will not do any longer. Transit operations require a more proactive approach today and the ability to constantly know what is going on at any given time on their mobile vehicles, and escalate that information to headquarters, authorities, or law enforcement if needed; which can only occur with real-time monitoring. This is the ultimate question when it comes to collecting, analyzing, and sharing data from mobile vehicles – how to get the video from public transportation vehicles alike to headquarters in real time! Managing video data In order to answer this question, let’s get back to basics. The management and nature of video data differs greatly from conventional (IT) data. Not only is video conducted of large frames, but there are specific and important relationships among the frames and the timing between them. This relationship can easily get lost in translation if not handled properly. This is why it’s critical to consider the proper way to transmit large frames while under unstable or variable networks. The Internet and its protocols were designed more than two decades ago and purposed for conventional data. Although the Internet itself has not changed, today’s network environments run a lot faster, expand to further ranges, and support a variety of different types of data. Because the internet is more reliable and affordable than in the past some might think it can handle anything. However, it is good for data, but not for video. This combination makes it the perfect time to convert video recording to the Cloud! Video transmission protocol One of the main issues with today’s technology is the degradation of video quality when transmitting video over the Internet. ITS are in dire need for reliable transmission of real-time video recording. To address this need a radical, yet proven, video transmission protocol has recently been introduced to the market. It uses AI technology and to adapt to different environments in order to always deliver high quality, complete video frames. This protocol, when equipped with encryption and authentication, enables video to be transmitted reliably and securely over the Internet in a cloud environment. One of the main issues with today’s technology is the degradation of video quality when transmitting video over the Internet Finally, transportation industry has a video recording Cloud solution that is designed for (massive) video that can handle networks that might be experiencing high error rate. Such a protocol will not only answer the current challenges of the transportation industry, but also make the previously risky Cloud environment safe for even the most reserved environments and entities. With revolutionary transmission protocols, the time is now to consider adopting private Cloud for your transportation operations.

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

In 2017, IoT-based cyberattacks increased by 600%. As the industry moves towards the mass adoption of interconnected physical security devices, end users have found a plethora of advantages, broadening the scope of traditional video surveillance solutions beyond simple safety measures. Thanks in part to these recent advancements, our physical solutions are at a higher risk than ever before. With today’s ever evolving digital landscape and the increasing complexity of physical and cyber-attacks, it’s imperative to take specific precautions to combat these threats. Video surveillance systems Cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind When you think of a video surveillance system, cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind, since digital threats are usually thought of as separate from physical security. Unfortunately, these two are becoming increasingly intertwined as intruders continue to use inventive methods in order to access an organization's assets. Hacks and data breaches are among the top cyber concerns, but many overlook the fact that weak cybersecurity practices can lead to physical danger as well. Organizations that deploy video surveillance devices paired with advanced analytics programs often leave themselves vulnerable to a breach without even realizing it. While they may be intelligent, IoT devices are soft targets that cybercriminals and hackers can easily exploit, crippling a physical security system from the inside out. Physical security manufacturers Whether looking to simply gain access to internal data, or paralyze a system prior to a physical attack, allowing hackers easy access to surveillance systems can only end poorly. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers within the security industry are trading in their traditional analog technology and moving towards interconnected devices. Due to this, security can no longer be solely focused on the physical elements and end users have taken note. The first step towards more secured solutions starts with physical security manufacturers choosing to make cybersecurity a priority for all products, from endpoint to edge and beyond. Gone are the days of end users underestimating the importance of reliability within their solutions. Manufacturers that choose to invest time and research into the development of cyber-hardening will be ahead of the curve and an asset to all. Wireless communication systems Integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future Aside from simply making the commitment to improve cyber hygiene, there are solid steps that manufacturers can take. One simple action is incorporating tools and features into devices that allow end users to more easily configure their cyber protection settings. Similarly, working with a third party to perform penetration testing on products can help to ensure the backend security of IoT devices. This gives customers peace of mind and manufacturers a competitive edge. While deficient cybersecurity standards can reflect poorly on manufacturers by installing vulnerable devices on a network, integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future. Just last year, ADT was forced to settle a $16 million class action lawsuit when the company installed an unencrypted wireless communication system that rendered an organization open to hacks. Cybersecurity services In addition, we’ve all heard of the bans, taxes and tariffs the U.S. government has recently put on certain manufacturers, depending on their country of origin and cybersecurity practices. Lawsuits aside, employing proper cybersecurity standards can give integrators a competitive advantage. With the proliferation of hacks, malware, and ransomware, integrators that can ease their client's cyber-woes are already a step ahead. By choosing to work with cybersecurity-focused manufacturers who provide clients with vulnerability testing and educate end users on best practices, integrators can not only thrive but find new sources of RMR. Education, collaboration and participation are three pillars when tackling cybersecurity from all angles. For dealers and integrators who have yet to add cybersecurity services to their business portfolios, scouting out a strategic IT partner could be the answer. Unlocking countless opportunities Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organization is the first step Physical security integrators who feel uncomfortable diving headfirst into the digital realm may find that strategically aligning themselves with an IT or cyber firm will unlock countless opportunities. By opening the door to a partnership with an IT-focused firm, integrators receive the benefit of cybersecurity insight on future projects and a new source of RMR through continued consulting with current customers. In exchange, the IT firm gains a new source of clients in an industry otherwise untapped. This is a win for all those involved. While manufacturers, dealers and integrators play a large part in the cybersecurity of physical systems, end users also play a crucial role. Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organization is the first step. Commonplace cybersecurity standards Below is a list of commonplace cybersecurity standards that all organizations should work to implement for the protection of their own video surveillance solutions: Always keep camera firmware up to date for the latest cyber protections. Change default passwords, especially those of admins, to keep the system locked to outside users. Create different user groups with separate rights to ensure all users have only the permissions they need. Set an encryption key for surveillance recordings to safeguard footage against intruders and prevent hackers from accessing a system through a backdoor. Enable notifications, whether for error codes or storage failures, to keep up to date with all systems happenings. Create/configure an OpenVPN connection for secured remote access. Check the web server log on a regular basis to see who is accessing the system. Ensure that web crawling is forbidden to prevent images or data found on your device from being made searchable. Avoid exposing devices to the internet unless strictly necessary to reduce the risk of attacks.

There are a handful of amazing things that set San Francisco apart from other global cities. Notably, there is the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown, the Twin Peaks overlooking the city skyline, San Francisco Bay, and The Moscone Center. Just how does a convention center fit into the list of places to see in beautiful San Francisco? It is the largest convention and exhibition complex in San Francisco, California. It includes three main halls spread out across three blocks and 87 acres in the prime South of Market neighborhood. The convention center originally opened in 1981 and has gone through several renovations. It is currently upgrading its security system to reflect a modern, state-of-the-art security solution. Securing SMG/Moscone Center Security at the SMG/Moscone Center is handled similar to the security at a Tier 1 airport. However, clients who use the facility are required to provide their own inside security. When the doors of the convention Center are open to the public, it plays host to people who want to come in and look around. Our new security system will provide analytics, and the ability to look at the images in real time" “We are responsible for facility security inside and on the perimeter outside. This is considered a soft target, so we do everything possible to harden the security,” said Damion Ellis, Director of Security at the SMG/Moscone Center. Damion adds, “The time is right for us to take out the old security system, including the old analog camera system. Our new security system will provide analytics, and the ability to look at the images in real time.” IP cameras installed for wide surveillance Like any major metropolitan area, the San Francisco metropolitan region has its own issues that have to be dealt with that aren’t pleasant. This includes keeping track of the homeless population and what they are doing. Damion Ellis further said, “We are able to place the new IP cameras in places where the homeless population congregates on the outside, in dark corners of the facility.” CompleteView VMS video platform The Moscone Center complex consists of three main halls. Moscone South is located to the south of Howard Street and is three-story tall. It opened in 2017, replacing the original Moscone Center building that opened in 1981. A Keith Haring sculpture stands outside the hall at the corner of 5th and Howard streets. Moscone North is located to the north of Howard Street, and Moscone West is a three-level exhibition hall located across 4th Street from Moscone North. Integration with ProWatch access control platform “One of the most compelling reasons Moscone deployed CompleteView video platform was the integration with Honeywell’s ProWatch access control platform, as well as newly designed multi-sensor cameras,” said Salient’s Regional Sales Manager in the Bay Area, Cindy Doyle. Cindy adds, “The ease of use and intuitive software allowed the guard staff to use maps in the system to identify where triggered events took place for guard dispatch.” Monitoring door alarms Prowatch access control platform is currently being used to monitor door alarms throughout the property Prowatch access control platform is currently being used to monitor door alarms throughout the property and triggering video call-up and/or alarm video event when there is a forced or held open door. In order to keep track of outside foot traffic and provide interior and exterior security, an analytics option was foremost on everyone’s mind, and integrator Microbiz Security Co., dove in with an initial site survey to determine the best course of action. Microbiz has partnered with the SMG/Moscone Center for several years. Video analytics solution “Our goal was to take a look at what it would take to secure the facility, but to do it properly,” said Todd Chritton, President of Microbiz Security. “The integrator had some suggestions in terms of offering better security coverage in some areas,” said Marco Escobar, Vice President of Operations at Microbiz Security, adding “What they knew was three buildings needed to update from its current 2002 technology, and upgrade to 2018 technology. It also was beneficial to the integrator having worked on site for several years and also having worked with Ellis during his tenure with the Hilton Hotel chain.” Multi-sensor and multi-megapixel IP cameras  Marco Escober further stated, “We’ve been a long-time vendor at the convention center, and we offer a pride of installation as well as using the best of the best security solutions. We began by updating current cameras to Arecont Vision multi-sensor and multi-megapixel IP cameras and Salient Systems’ CompleteView VMS, Dellintegrated server with RAID6 configuration and CompleteView Enterprise software." He adds, "The VMS is a fully open architecture, enabling convention center security staff to seamlessly leverage existing technology investments and minimize disruption.”

Arecont Vision Costar (AV Costar), a globally renowned IP-based megapixel camera technology and video surveillance solutions provider, has unveiled multiple high performance cameras for the ConteraIP megapixel (MP) series. The four new models build upon the high performance, superior image quality, outstanding reliability, ease of installation, and competitive pricing that are the hallmarks of ConteraIP. “We’ve taken the most in-demand form factors from our proven MegaIP single, dual, and multi-sensor camera families to bring similar choices to our expanding ConteraIP series,” said Brad Donaldson, Vice President of Product Development at Arecont Vision Costar. “ConteraIP will now address an even wider variety of challenging customer requirements as these new NDAA-compliant cameras roll out in coming weeks.” ConteraIP MicroDome LX cameras Indoor models feature a built-in microphone, while the outdoor MicroDome LX includes integrated IR illuminators The newly unveiled ConteraIP MicroDome LX IP cameras offer customers the choice of indoor ultra-low profile flush mount models for discreet surveillance or compact surface mount versions for indoor/outdoor use. Indoor models feature a built-in microphone, while the outdoor MicroDome LX includes integrated IR illuminators. All MicroDome LX cameras deliver up to 30fps of megapixel video and include a motorized remote focus lens for rapid setup, with choice of 1080p (2.1MP) or 5MP resolution.  The new ConteraIP MicroDome Duo LX offers twin, independent domes with motorized remote focus lens, each capable of up to 30fps of megapixel video. The Duo is ideal for indoor/outdoor applications such as coverage of hallways, walkways, and corners, or for monitoring ATMs or POS terminals where a 4-sensor Omni or panoramic camera may not be suitable. The compact platform brings models with 4 (2x1080p), 10 (2x5MP), or 16 (2x8MP) MP resolution choices, each with twin remote focus motorized lenses. ConteraIP Omni LX cameras AV Costar continues to build upon its legacy of surveillance industry leadership in adjustable-view multi-sensor models with the unveiling of the new ConteraIP Omni LX. The highly flexible remote-focus camera series offers 4 high resolution megapixel sensors with motorized remote focus lenses for easy installation and setup.  Omni LX offers the choice of 8 (4x1080p) or 20 (4x5MP) megapixel resolution with the customer’s choice of interchangeable lenses. Each sensor can be adjusted to the perfect individual view then remotely focused. The Omni LX delivers up to 360-degrees of non-stop coverage of virtually any scene for complete situational awareness. The Omni LX reduces complexity and cost, using a single PoE IP cable, IP address, and VMS license (on most VMS systems) instead of multiples of each being required for individual single-sensor cameras. NightView low light technology and H.265 compression ConteraIP cameras offer enhanced WDR up to 120db for varied lighting conditions, NightView low light technology, and H.265 with SnapStream+ & M-JPEG support. Other common features are high frame rates, defog technology, on screen display, MicroSD card support (most models), and multi-streaming capability. Just as in the entire MegaIP camera family, all four of the new ConteraIP models include both NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act H. R. 2500) and ONVIF compliance, plus are IP66 environmental and IK10 impact resistance rated. 360-degree Fisheye Panoramic and multi-sensor cameras Existing ConteraIP models include compact single sensor 360-degree Fisheye Panoramic cameras With the addition of these newest megapixel models, the ConteraIP camera series covers an even wider range of video surveillance and security system needs for a wide range of applications. Existing ConteraIP models include the compact single sensor 360-degree Fisheye Panoramic cameras with built-in microphone and two award-winning multi-sensor cameras - the 4-sensor 180-degree Panoramic with integrated IR and the Omni LX Remote Setup, which features 4 remotely positioned and focused motorized sensors for the ultimate ease of installation and configuration with non-stop surveillance across up to 360 degrees of coverage. ConteraIP Indoor Dome and Micro Bullet cameras The ConteraIP family further includes single-sensor ConteraIP Indoor Dome and award-winning indoor/outdoor Micro Bullet, Bullet, and standard Outdoor Dome models. EX series Bullet and Dome models complete the ConteraIP lineup, offering choice of standard and optional advanced analytics. Visitors can see the newest ConteraIP series in action at the Costar booth, #8045, at ISC West 2020, which has now been rescheduled to July 20-22 in the Sands Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

Arecont Vision Costar (AVC), globally renowned provider of IP-based megapixel camera technology and video surveillance solutions, will deliver live demonstrations of its latest high-tech cameras from booth 252 at the ISC East 2019 exhibition and conference. The two-day security industry event will be held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, located in New York City, NY, from November 20 - 21, 2019. Total Video Solution AVC will highlight several powerful new cameras as part of the award-winning Total Video Solution AVC will highlight several powerful new cameras as part of the award-winning Total Video Solution, able to be securely and easily accessed anywhere, anytime, including from Security Operation Centers, desktop or laptop computers, smartphones, and tablet devices. Brad Donaldson, Vice President of Product Development for AVC, explains, “Our ConteraIP camera family continues to grow, offering the industry’s best image quality, performance, and reliability at an affordable price point.” Mr. Donaldson continued, “Each of the new cameras is designed to address customer requests for additional configuration options and features, while leveraging the power of our cloud-enabled Total Video Solution.” ConteraIP Omni LX Remote Setup dome cameras AVC has introduced multiple new products since initial launch in July of 2018 as an operating unit of Texas-based Costar Technologies, Inc. AVC is committed to the delivery of innovative product designs and features, outstanding product quality and reliability, and unmatched customer service and support. Now available, the newest member of the adjustable-view multi-sensor Omni camera series – first pioneered for the security industry in 2014 - is the most powerful and capable yet. The Omni LX Remote Setup (or RS) indoor/outdoor dome camera was unveiled at ISC West 2019 in April, and brings a choice of 8 or 20 Megapixel (MP) models each featuring four sensors mounted in individual, motorized gimbals. Remote focus/zoom capability with customisable views complements the default 180-, 280-, and 360-degree choices. NightView technology The compact dome enclosure brings a simple installation design combined with remote setup technology to position, aim, & focus each sensor. Together, these features reduce both installer effort, and eliminate the need to physically touch the camera from a lift or ladders for post-installation view, coverage, or focus adjustments. Standard Omni LX features include superior image quality at up to 30fps (frames per second) per sensor and full multi-streaming capability. Enhanced WDR (wide dynamic range) at up to 120db, NightView technology combined with mechanical IR cut filters for day/night use, both H.265 and SnapStream+ technology for reduced bandwidth use without loss of image quality, and PoE support round out the feature set. ConteraIP Fisheye 360-degree panoramic dome cameras The compact, very-low-profile dome camera offers a full 360-degree image without blind spots Released in September at GSX 2019 Chicago, the new ConteraIP Fisheye Dome indoor/outdoor camera is proving popular with customers seeking an affordable, single-sensor panoramic model with outstanding image quality. The compact, very-low-profile dome camera offers a full 360-degree image without blind spots at 12MP resolution. This product is suitable for day/night projects where a multi-sensor panoramic or Omni camera may not be warranted. Offering multiple de-warp display modes, this PoE camera includes integrated microphone, speaker, IR illuminators, and SDXC card slot for onboard storage. H.264/H.265 encoders and advanced SNAPstream+, SmartIR, WDR, and NightView technologies are included along with the advanced suite of AVC single-sensor camera capabilities. ConteraIP Outdoor Dome & Bullet EX Series The ConteraIP Outdoor Dome EX and Bullet EX cameras first unveiled at ISC West 2019 in April are available for customer ordering. Featuring AVC’s new Advanced Video Analytics suite, each high-performance EX model delivers 5MP resolution. Included analytics are camera tamper detection, intrusion detection, line crossing, and loitering detection. An optional additional suite of analytics is also available, including object classification (person/vehicle), object left/removed, and people/vehicle counting. Each EX model includes True Day/Night capabilities with integrated IR (infrared) illuminators for use indoors or out. Each includes a motorized varifocal lens for rapid focusing during setup and offers the full suite of powerful AVC single-sensor camera capabilities. These include a SDXC card slot for onboard storage, PoE (Power over Ethernet) capability, H.264/H.265 encoders, plus advanced SNAPstream+, SmartIR, Advanced WDR, and NightView technologies. Cloud-enabled ConteraVMS All of these new ConteraIP camera series are designed for use with the cloud-enabled ConteraVMS as part of the Total Video Solution. AVC MegaLab validation and ONVIF Profile S, G, Q, and T compliance provide easy integration with 3rd party VMS systems when needed.