Gadi Piran

IP surveillance cameras used in conjunction with VMS systems offer the best level of security for schools Campus security is a top priority in schools throughout the country and the capabilities of IP video surveillance systems make them one of the most popular and effective security tools available. In this article, Gadi Piran, President, OnSSI defines scope and structure of IP video and its advantages in a number of ways including: superior image quality, ease of manipulation, integration capabilities, simple accessibility and a wide scalability range. He adds that IP video systems also allow surveillance cameras to be deployed anywhere within reach of a network connection, while a standards-based design and open architecture ensure the ability to incorporate signals from various types and brands of security cameras into a unified video platform. Video management software (VMS) systems are a central component of IP surveillance that maximize the ability of video cameras located throughout a school campus to keep students, staff, visitors and facilities safe. VMS systems are designed with efficiency tools such as touch-screen technology, map-based interfaces, context-sensitive pop-up controls and time slice forensics. Combined with an event-management platform, VMS systems easily integrate with an array of physical security solutions such as alarms, access control, intrusion detection, video content analytics, license plate recognition and other operation systems to provide security professionals the information needed to safeguard their campus and make better and more informed decisions. Video management software (VMS) systems are a central component of IP surveillance that maximize the ability of surveillance cameras located throughout a school campus to keep students, staff, visitors and facilities safe Because IP video surveillance systems are evolving into a more comprehensive security solution in the school environment, a VMS system must be proactive and results-oriented. To help schools establish VMS best practices that, together with IP surveillance systems, can provide the foundation for a safe and secure environment, the following should be considered. Collaborative Workflow IP-based solutions open the door for linking systems and areas, allowing the entire campus to be tied to the VMS platform for improved situational awareness. An open platform conforming to industry standards enables schools to choose best-of-breed components, combined in any configuration for any size application. Ideally, VMS technology should be intuitive and relatively simple to configure as well as readily able to integrate with network-based systems. From an operations standpoint, authorized users should be able to view and control the system from anywhere on the network through a highly intuitive, unified user interface. Optimized by touch-screen operation, the interface would provide instantaneous control of all aspects of video detection, analysis, delivery and response. IP-based security solutions open the door for linking systems and areas, allowing the entire campus to be tied to the VMS platform Interoperability and connectivity with local municipal authorities running identical VMS systems makes vital information immediately available to those officials for collaborative handling in the event of a fire, lockdown or other serious threats at the school. Programming the management server on a granular level for information access and control helps to ensure the integrity of the system. Finger Tip Control with Time Saving Tools and Analytics Whether it’s an elementary school with 10 security cameras or a multi-complex university with hundreds of cameras, managing the video and data is better accomplished with easy to use, intelligent tools available on a VMS system. Traditional record/review systems typically have too few operators with too little time, trying to handle too many cameras and too much information. The VMS system tools provide operators with full control over all camera parameters, including PTZ presets, joystick control, digital zoom in/out and more. These intuitive and time-saving features, available on the user interface, give the advantage needed to make the right decision quickly when an alert is sent. For example, if an alarmed door exit at a facility is breached, the VMS system can be pre-programmed to automatically “push” the video to pre-selected devices, enabling authorities in the area to immediately view the incident and then take the necessary action. This capability enables schools to react to events and potential problems quickly and effectively, which in turn can prevent them from escalating. VMS system capabilities can also be used for after-the-fact investigation. Tools such as digital PTZ into recorded images, time slicing and bi-directional playback with variable speed and instant access to recorded events via an events list offer faster access to data about an incident. For example, using digital PTZ to manipulate images gives operators the ability to sharpen the video, get a wider view or analyze multiple camera angles. Using these tools to mine evidence – for example, how a criminal proceeded from floor to floor looking for a target – security personnel can present a more complete case, even potentially showing intent of a criminal activity. Streaming and Mobile Applications Situational awareness is a key foundation of security. A full complement of well-placed high definition (HD) and megapixel video surveillance cameras can provide that awareness. The only problem is, not every school will have dedicated networks for transmission nor will incidents conveniently take place between the hours of 9 and 5 when the control room might be fully staffed and able to monitor events. By incorporating VMS into the mix, this challenge can be addressed. Smartphones and iPads are as much a part of security technology solutions as are cameras and video recorders New VMS technology enables standard definition and HD/megapixel cameras to stream high resolution video over a low-speed connection or limited bandwidth network. Video streams through the cloud can be monitored at full frame rates (with less than one-second lag) including the ability to digitally control pan/tilt/zoom functions. Streams can then be encrypted to enable a secure connection both inside and outside a school network, with all the resulting collaborative and safety advantages. Today, smartphones, iPads and other portable devices are as much a part of security technology solutions as are surveillance cameras and network video recorders. Mobile security as an element of VMS ensures operational efficiencies that would be almost impossible for a non-managed (mobile) system to achieve. With the advent of High Definition Interactive Streaming (HDIS) Technology, streaming of multiple SD and HD cameras simultaneously to mobile devices all at full frame rate (30 FPS) and over limited bandwidths is enabled. More specifically, HDIS technology enables full motion playback of up to 16 HD video streams of live or recorded video at their original frame rate with full digital PTZ control of each camera over limited bandwidth network connections via 3G and 4G Wi-Fi, broadband and Internet. This technology allows remote users to access multiple HD images in real-time from an iPad tablet, (and soon an iPhone) PC or laptop with a standard web interface. Benefits to schools beyond security In addition to keeping students and staff safe, cameras can help administrators manage discipline problems or monitor facility levels and capabilities. Video can help to manage the flow of students, analyze bottlenecks that form between classes or view vehicle traffic flow. Surveillance video can also track facility occupancy, especially during the weekend or off-hours. Video capability is an excellent resource for facility management by enabling operators to view and evaluate a physical plant system malfunction before deciding whether to send a technician. Integrated with the HVAC system, video could help save energy costs by automatically turning up the air conditioner only when a room is occupied. And when mobile security is implemented, individuals in the field can use their smart phones to send video images of a dangerous situation, such as a sewer without a grate, to authorities. In today’s education environment, developing VMS best practices not only optimizes state of the art imaging technology; they also enable the central management of complex systems and allow users to have an entire facility at their fingertips.

Video surveillance software now allows retailers to monitor a location from anywhere Video surveillance has a lot more applications in the retail sector than mere loss prevention.  It can serve as an important management tool to boost operations and business intelligence. In this article, Gadi Piran of OnSSI, describes how surveillance video can be effectively used by retailers to improve their operating efficiencies and save costs by combining remote monitoring with software and even other applications. All of these additional benefits contribute to greater ROI of video surveillance. Almost every retail location uses a video surveillance security system to combat shoplifting, to encourage employee honesty, and to provide video evidence in case of a health and safety claim or other incident. The value of video in the retail environment has been clearly demonstrated over the years in relation to these purposes, but video surveillance has many other capabilities.  This type of surveillance can provide high value to retailers who look beyond these core applications to embrace the expanding capabilities and surprising cost-effectiveness of IP-based networked video. Retail Management with Surveillance Video Video systems can provide a new and effective management tool in any retail environment. Exploring the management benefits, in addition to the traditional focus on security or loss prevention, is key to leveraging the complete value of video in retail operations. Video can help with managing remote sites, monitoring point-of-purchase (POP) and merchandising displays, ensuring efficient customer service and a range of other uses. Real-time video of a remote retail location can benefit personnel management, asset tracking and overall efficiencies. This untapped potential also relates to another challenge, which is the need to show a return on investment (ROI) for any technology purchase. The value proposition for video as a security and surveillance tool may be well understood, but the current economic climate makes it imperative that the broader bottom-line benefits and added efficiencies are seen clearly and easily quantified. This is especially important in the retail environment, where narrow margins and downward cost pressures make it important to show a technology ROI. The added value of uncovering additional benefits and uses of video makes the ROI case that much stronger. Video systems can provide a new and effective management tool in any retail environment Video management with remote monitoring and surveillance software Video surveillance software now allows retailers to monitor a location from anywhere –remotely from home or from a mobile device. Retailers can use this capability for a variety of business intelligence functions, including quality control, customer service and merchandising. Video can help determine the most effective scheduling of personnel or the most effective POP display by viewing when the busiest times are in stores or at a particular counter or display. Video can also streamline processes to provide alerts if equipment malfunctions, and generally to ensure overall smooth operation. New video management tools such as rules-based identification of alerts, video analytics and event-driven push video make it possible for fewer operators to manage more cameras.  Increased efficiency is a benefit of not having to review hours of video. The value of the data is unprecedented. By analyzing video, retailers can determine customer spending habits, which displays are the busiest and the best use of personnel. In summary, the video analysis provides data that can direct retailers to the best use of people and resources. Video can be valuable to almost every department in a retail operation.  For example, human resources can use video to address employee-related issues such as sexual harassment claims or time-and-attendance. Marketing can use a system to confirm whether merchandising displays have been set up according to a schematic. Management can use it as a virtual “store walk-through” to observe employee productivity and address other issues. Interoperability of Video Surveillance with Other Systems Through IP Network Open IP architecture also paves the way for video systems to interoperate as necessary with other systems and departments. Video can be part of a retail operation's information stream and should be leveraged for maximum value. Video can be tied to a point-of-sale (POS) system or to exception reporting software that highlights questionable POS transactions and can provide related video of each transaction. Video can be integrated with an RFID (radio frequency identification) or EAS (electronic article surveillance) system to provide real-time video in case of an alarm. Verifying a situation before responding can help avoid the expenses associated with false alarms. Surveillance data can be used to count customers using analytics algorithms and monitor crowd control  The data obtained from video surveillance provides valuable information for today's retailers. It can be used to enhance productivity of employees and processes, count customers using analytics algorithms, monitor crowd control and integrate with other department operations such as maintenance and facilities. Lastly, video integrated with third-party offerings such as HVAC can save costs, for example, by adjusting the heating/air conditioning according to how many people are in a room. Retailers should take a look at the wealth of benefits video can provide beyond security or loss prevention. Video surveillance can act as a broad-based management and business intelligence tool when utilized correctly.

Corsight AI Inc. announces the launch of global operations to provide autonomous AI software solutions for professional security and business intelligence applications. At the helm of the new venture are industry veterans Gadi Piran, Mulli Diamant and Yoav Millet, Founders and Executive Members previously from VMS provider OnSSI. Corsight offers advanced facial recognition solutions with autonomous AI technology built on neural network technology that emerged from research at the world renowned Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. Headquartered in the United States with an R&D Center in Israel, Corsight recently raised $5 million from Awz Ventures, a Canadian fund focused on intelligence and security technologies. Video surveillance camera Unlike AI solutions based on deep learning, the autonomous AI employed by Corsight delivers a higher level of intelligence that mimics the way humans interpret sensory inputs to better anticipate and predict events and understand surroundings. This allows Corsight technology to recognize different faces even at extreme angles with outstanding speed and accuracy even when presented in different perspectives under diverse lighting and environmental conditions. Corsight solutions are built on a foundation of over 250 patents registered to date. By leveraging the huge volume of data captured by today’s video surveillance cameras of all types, Corsight’s innovative autonomous AI facial recognition solution makes any video surveillance camera a portal for AI data analysis. Access control credentialing The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the immediate demand for innovative security technologies" Applications include real-time facial recognition analytics for identification and access control credentialing even when faces are concealed by face-masks, goggles or plastic shields, as well as people counting, anomaly detection and forensic analysis. With privacy as a primary charter, all Corsight autonomous AI solutions are developed with extensive provisions engineered to protect each individual’s privacy. “The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the immediate demand for innovative security technologies. Just a few months ago we all believed that the new autonomous AI facial recognition solution we were preparing to launch was far ahead of its time. As it turns out, it is just in time,” said Gadi Piran, CEO at Corsight. Facial recognition technology “Corsight facial recognition delivers the power to unlock the massive volumes of data captured by any video source, organize it into comprehensible intelligence, and deliver actionable insights while setting new standards in performance and personal privacy. After years of expectation, it was this new level of facial recognition technology that drew Mulli, Yoav and me back into the industry, and we are most excited to begin a new journey with Corsight.”

Qognify - the trusted advisor and technology solution provider for Physical Security and Enterprise Incident Management - announces that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire On-Net Surveillance Systems, Inc. (OnSSI) and the OnSSI company - SeeTec GmbH. In bringing these award-winning technology solution portfolios together under one roof - including Qognify VisionHub, OnSSI Ocularis and SeeTec Cayuga - Qognify becomes one of the largest VMS, Video Analytics, PSIM and critical incident management companies in the world. Qognify is backed by global investment firm Battery Ventures. Also located in Pearl River, New York, OnSSI was founded in 2002 with the goal of developing comprehensive and intelligent IP video management software (VMS). Dominant Global Position SeeTec GmbH is a pioneer of IP video technology and today a provider of VMS software in Europe Today, the company has an established presence in more than 100 countries, where its Ocularis and Cayuga VMS solutions are relied upon by education, gaming, government, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, public safety, transportation and utilities organizations. With Qognify’s proven pedigree in delivering successful projects for financial services companies, mass-transit infrastructure, large international airports and seaports, as well as smart and safe city projects around the world, the acquisition sees the company establish a dominant global position in both the mid-market and enterprise sectors. SeeTec GmbH is a pioneer of IP video technology and today a provider of VMS software in Europe. The Germany-based company was acquired by OnSSI in 2015 and boasts 100 employees, working out of offices across mainland Europe, Dubai, Scandinavia and the UK. Most Innovative Companies Steve Shine, CEO and President of Qognify states: “OnSSI and SeeTec solutions have a deservedly excellent reputation throughout the security sector. This is the perfect time to bring together our collective pool of physical security talent and technologies, to increase the range of target markets we are able to serve. The partnership also greatly increases the number of customers and partners for the combined business. This is a very exciting agreement for all of us.” This coming together of two of the security sector’s most innovative companies, unleashes unrivalled opportunities for collaboration" Gadi Piran, Co-Founder, President and CTO of OnSSI comments: “This coming together of two of the security sector’s most innovative companies, unleashes unrivalled opportunities for collaboration and brings to market a proposition that meets all security and operational management requirements, from powerful VMS to full scale intelligent situational awareness.” Major Achievement Piran adds: “Our collective market reach is truly global, with a strong presence in Europe, the US and Asia that will continue to grow.” Jesse Feldman, General Partner at Battery Ventures, which acquired Qognify from NICE Systems in 2015 states: “Qognify has rapidly established itself as a trusted and progressive brand in the physical security sector. The acquisition of the OnSSI Group - a high-profile brand in the security market in its own right - is a major achievement in its history, but most importantly lays down a marker regarding its intent to grow faster and bigger.”

OnSSI has undergone major changes since the last ASIS, and has emerged more energised and prepared for global market expansion moving forward. Armed with aggressive development of its VMS technology, an infusion of investment capital and expanded global reach driven by an influx of new experienced employees, OnSSI will build upon its core base of physical security customers, while developing exciting new technology solutions that transcend traditional security markets into logistics and business intelligence. OnSSI Investment And Expansion “Technology-driven companies need to reboot every so often and re-evaluate how their evolving and new solutions meet the pain points of their customers, as well as identify future opportunities for new business development,” said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “2016 was a year of self-reflection at OnSSI, and as a result we have implemented several aggressive initiatives over the last several months that are already showing results.” With an initial capital investment of a $16-million private placement from Seacoast Capital, OnSSI has quickly moved to expand its sales and support team across the U.S. with the appointment of several seasoned industry professionals in recent weeks alone. OnSSI Ocularis Enhancements OnSSI also continues to evolve Ocularis since replacing the VMS solution’s recorder in 2015. The latest enhancements to Ocularis will include: new Smart Camera Drivers for Dahua and Panasonic cameras for immediate support for all new cameras without the need to wait for individual camera drivers or driver packs; dewarping support for Panasonic cameras; H.265 support for Axis cameras with the Ocularis Smart Camera Driver; automatic configuration of Ocularis Base upon Recorder changes; new System Status tab in Ocularis Administrator for monitoring the system’s health, new playback mode for a faster review of alarm recordings in Ocularis Client; and more. "We have implemented several aggressive initiatives over the last several months that are already showing results" OnSSI has also implemented new integrations with Agent Vi analytics and Open Options for advanced video integrations.   Technology Partners At ASIS OnSSI will be hosting a number of technology partners at their Booth (No. 4445) this year, displaying a range of technology integrations. These include: C2P The integration between C2P and OnSSI’s Ocularis provides vital information to assist operators in assessing emerging situations and helps enable them to choose an appropriate course of action. This solution brings video and data together to provide a highly effective utility for security applications in the fields of banking, access control, asset tracking, license plate recognition, point-of-sale and more.  CyberExtruder CyberExtruder’s high performance face recognition software, Aureus 3D, integrates with Ocularis 5 to enable face matching to be used with live video in uncontrolled environments. The 3D Face Recognition Software can be used with conventional video streams, video files and images. Together, the integration mitigates the real-world challenges to facial recognition created when security cameras are mounted in less-than-ideal locations. The solution provides an automated identity processing hub for organizations with identity management security requirements.  Quantum Quantum’s multi-tiered storage platform provides more total usable capacity for less overall budget. Together, Quantum and OnSSI are building enterprise video surveillance and physical security solutions that deliver streaming performance and real-time access to data, regardless of whether it’s on disk, tape, or in the cloud. Additionally, OnSSI has allocated significant resources towards tOnSSI Drives VMS Beyond Conventionhe further development of VMS, logistics and business intelligence technologies with its wholly owned subsidiary in Europe, SeeTec GmbH. “OnSSI is truly re-energised with new technologies, additional personnel, and an expanded solution roadmap that will enable us to integrate Ocularis and new software solutions beyond traditional security ecosystems to address users’ logistics and business intelligence needs,” continued Mr. Piran.

Ocularis 5.1 provides new customers with an intelligent platform to simplify workloads and system management OnSSI’s new Ocularis 5.1 Video Management Software (VMS) on display here at ASIS delivers a host of new features to support customer requirements and system design needs. Ocularis 5.1 provides new customers with an intelligent and cost effective platform to simplify workloads and system management. It provides a comprehensive migration path for existing customers with backward compatibility to virtually all previous versions of their OnSSI VMS software. Ocularis 5.1 VMS Features Ocularis 5.1’s long list of new features includes: server based motion detection, giving the user the option to run motion detection on the server or the camera, allowing generic settings to be copied across multiple channels for faster installation, stronger network security with encryption between clients and servers, better storage management with automatic optimization of hard drive volumes and load balancing across multiple storage components, scrambled video database for better protection of video evidence and simpler and easier installation and licensing with no requirement to register cameras and their MAC addresses. “The release of Ocularis 5.1 includes many new features, integrations and camera support to better align with our customer’s needs and expectations”, said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “Managing cameras through our unique Manufacturers Universal Driver program, delivering new efficiencies in data storage and recorder management, along with a seamless migration path for legacy Ocularis users makes Ocularis 5.1 an extremely powerful VMS solution for new and existing customers.” The new Ocularis 5.1 also includes better Network Address Translation (NAT) to access servers outside the Ocularis Base machine or a firewall. Ocularis 5.1 also continues to support the features that set it apart from competitors, such as camera NVR, critical camera failover and redundancy and failover configurations, along with many others. In addition, Ocularis Media Servers (OMS), both transcoded and non-transcoded are included with the 5.1 release. Ocularis 5.1 Three Models Ocularis 5.1 is offered in three models: Professional, designed for organizations operating multiple locations with small to mid-sized camera counts; Enterprise, built for a wide range of mid to large IT-centric organizations; and Ultimate, created for large organizations with extended command and control needs and recording server failover.

OnSSI announced that the new Ocularis v5.0 Video Management Software (VMS) is now available for delivery for both new customers and for current customer upgrades. Installing this new software brings new capabilities, efficiencies, scalability, and cost effectiveness to support diverse customer requirements and system designs. Built on an open and innovative platform, Ocularis v5.0 is designed to enhance security by providing comprehensive system management and advanced features.   Improved Features “Ocularis v5.0 is our newest, most capable offering ever. It provides a simple, efficient, secure and powerful platform on which to build integrated security systems,” said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “Our customers have been eager to take advantage of the new functionality, including improved data storage handling, camera integration, and recorder management, and with this recent release, they can do so immediately.” Ocularis v5.0 is based on a new recorder that accommodates a high number of cameras per server while maximising HDD storage effectiveness with dynamic data management for automatic storage load balancing, edge recording support, video aging, and End-to-End 256 bit AES Encryption. Ocularis v5.0 also provides improved site-to-site capabilities and communication with features including push video feeds to remote displays and shared events for quicker responses and greater collaboration. In addition to these powerful new features, Ocularis v5.0 will continue to support the features that set it apart from competitors, such as Camera NVR, Critical Camera Failover, and PSIM functionality, along with many others.   “OnSSI takes pride in providing a seamless migration path to Ocularis v5.0,” continued Mr. Piran. “Current Ocularis users will find it easy to upgrade to the new software and take advantage of the new capabilities.”   Ocularis StayCURRENT Plan For Customers Ocularis users with a valid StayCURRENT Software Upgrade Plan can migrate to Ocularis v5.0 free of charge and their StayCURRENT plan remains in effect. For Ocularis v4.1 and earlier customers without a StayCURRENT plan, they can purchase a special, limited time offer for a one-year StayCURRENT plan to easily upgrade to the new Ocularis v5.0 at a greatly reduced cost.  Ocularis v5.0 is offered in three levels: Professional, designed for organizations operating multiple locations with small to mid-sized camera counts; Enterprise, built for a wide range of mid to large IT-centric organizations; and Ultimate, created for large organizations with extended command and control needs and recording server failover.

Ocularis v5.0 provides efficient, secure and powerful platform OnSSI’s new Ocularis v5.0 ushers in a new era in Video Management Software (VMS) capabilities, efficiencies, scalability and cost effectiveness to best support diversified customer requirements and system designs. Built on an open and innovative platform, Ocularis v5.0 is designed to enhance security by providing comprehensive system management and workload simplification and ensures that users VMS platform is ready to face security technical, operational and commercial challenges and demands today and well into the future. Ocularis v5.0 - secure and powerful platform “Ocularis v5.0 provides a simple, efficient, secure and powerful platform on which to build integrated security systems,” said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “It takes a fresh approach to managing camera integrations, data storage handling and recorder management. OnSSI will continue to support and offer enhancements for current Ocularis users as always, while providing a seamless migration path to Ocularis 5.0, if they elect to do so now or in the future,” continued Mr. Piran. Ocularis 5.0 is based on a new recorder that accommodates a significantly higher density of cameras per recorder while maximizing HDD storage without the need for user configuration. It features automatic load balancing for managing recordings across system servers, which yields up to an 80% increase in throughput all while reducing storage costs. Ocularis 5.0 also allows for multiple different recorders to be combined under the same Base (including legacy Ocularis 4.X recorders) with centralized user and event management. Designed for organizations In addition to powerful, new features, Ocularis 5.0 will continue to support the features that set it apart from competitors, such as Camera NVR, Critical Camera Failover and redundancy and failover configurations, along with many others. Ocularis v5.0 is offered in three levels: Professional, designed for organizations operating multiple locations with small to mid-sized camera counts; Enterprise, built for a wide range of mid to large IT-centric organizations; and Ultimate, created for large organizations with extended command and control needs and recording server failover. “Ocularis v5.0 provides significant advantages for users and integrators. It provides security and facility management with a powerful integration platform that delivers more efficient recording capabilities and enhanced camera management,” continued Mr. Piran. “Ocularis v5.0 represents a new generation in VMS technology to address today’s requirements with vision for tomorrow.” OnSSI’s new Ocularis v5.0 video management software to be released at ISC West in Las Vegas

The company releases Ocularis v5.0 video management software at ISC West in Las Vegas On-Net Surveillance Systems, Inc. (OnSSI) continues to solidify its position in the evolving VMS arena by expanding its global presence and introducing new VMS solutions for existing and new customers. The company’s expansion is being fueled by the acquisition of SeeTec, a leading VMS company serving Europe and beyond; the introduction of Ocularis 5.0 VMS which takes a fresh approach to managing camera licensing, camera integrations, data storage handling and recorder management; and continued enhancement of the company’s Ocularis 4.2 VMS. “The VMS market is in a state of consolidation that is realigning alliances and partnerships across the industry. What makes OnSSI’s acquisition of SeeTec unique is that we continue to focus on our core competencies in software development and VMS solutions that support our customers and partners moving forward,” said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “As we continue to expand our business operations and technology portfolio, we can better support new and existing customers both regionally and internationally, while further evolving our open platform VMS solutions to deliver the highest levels of performance, cost-efficiency and integration.” OnSSI and SeeTec AG acquisition OnSSI recently announced the acquisition of SeeTec AG, a privately held German-based company providing VMS solutions to European markets. The acquisition combines the strengths of the two VMS leaders by leveraging OnSSI’s industry-leading Ocularis VMS platform with SeeTec’s advanced logistics suite of products. Immediate benefits to the company’s extensive user base include: the establishment of a global network of offices to support new markets and customers regionally and internationally; faster development of new software innovations resulting from an expanded team of specialized software developers; and increased support personnel and accessibility. OnSSI’s new Ocularis 5.0 OnSSI’s new Ocularis 5.0 is built on an open and innovative platform that features significantly higher density camera recording to maximize HDD storage capacity and increases throughput by as much as 80%. This, combined with a fresh approach to managing camera licensing and integrations, results in significant overall cost savings. Ocularis 5.0 is available in three levels: Professional for organizations with multiple locations and small to mid-sized camera counts; Enterprise for a wide range of large IT-centric organizations; and Ultimate for large organizations with extended command and control requirements. Additionally, OnSSI continues to enhance the capabilities of Ocularis 4.2 with new enhancements, such as integration with Samsung dewarping, and the introduction of a new mobile client that enables multi-users to concurrently operate the VMS. Ocularis 4 versions and Ocularis 5.0 can reside and operate on the same server base while maintaining the same look and feel for system operators. Ocularis 5.0 allows users to seamlessly migrate Ocularis 4 versions to Ocularis 5.0 if they elect to do so. OnSSI’s new Ocularis v5.0 video management software to be released at ISC West in Las Vegas.

The agreement combines the strengths of OnSSI and SeeTec by leveraging Ocularis VMS platform Video Management Software company On-Net Surveillance Systems, Inc. (OnSSI) recently announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire SeeTec AG, a privately held German-based company providing VMS solutions to European markets. As one of the first providers of network-based video management applications, SeeTec provides customers with targeted solutions aligned with customer requirements and industry-specific processes. The agreement combines the strengths of OnSSI and SeeTec by leveraging OnSSI’s industry-leading Ocularis VMS platform with SeeTec’s advanced logistics suite of products, delivering an unparalleled solution for end users and channel partners alike.   Global expansion and growth: “This acquisition is important for our growth, diversification and global presence strategies”, said Gadi Piran, OnSSI’s President and CTO. “SeeTec is highly regarded in European markets for its software development, client services and outstanding customer relationships. They will continue to provide these services locally, while working together with OnSSI to expand globally. I could not ask for a better partner than SeeTec to grow and deliver increased value to OnSSI customers.”   The combination of OnSSI’s leading position in many vertical markets and SeeTec’s focus on video-based business and logistics add-on modules will create strong VMS solutions across multiple vertical markets.   “Joining forces with OnSSI gives SeeTec customers a strong long-term and global perspective. SeeTec technology will continue to be a driving force in the industry with additional opportunities and resources”, says Stephan Rasp, CEO of SeeTec AG. “We look forward to bringing both companies together in this effort."

OnSSI’s technology partnerships further expand the features and functionality of Ocularis At this year’s ASIS 2014 show, OnSSI is showcasing several innovative technology partnerships that further expand the features and functionality of Ocularis. Industry interest in the VMS platform’s open architecture and intelligent engineering continues to drive the development of new and exciting applications for Ocularis. “Technology collaborations provide users with higher levels of integration so they can better manage and control overall security. From its onset, Ocularis’ powerful engine has been cultivated to deliver a unified and intelligent platform to centralize a diverse range of security applications,” said Gadi Piran, President and CTO, OnSSI. “To realize this higher level of enterprise functionality, OnSSI continues to cultivate technology partnerships that yield new and expanded capabilities.” Partnerships featured in OnSSI’s booth include: IDentytech Solutions™ Ltd. delivers seamless management, operation and investigation of intrusion, fire, credentialing, video surveillance and IDM operations with on-the-fly video alerts and fast access to video and data using Ocularis. Razberi™ Technologies' ServerSwitch appliance combines an NVR, a high-powered PoE smart switch and Ocularis VMS and can function as a stand-alone recorder or as a distributed network of remote edge recorders centrally managed by Ocularis. Spectra Logic video retention products offer a cost-effective solution for recording, retaining and retrieving vast amounts of video for quick and easy search and playback via Ocularis at any time. INEX/ZAMIR License Plate Recognition (LPR) captures accurate digital information from a vehicle including license plate number, color, and make. IZ System fully integrates with the Ocularis platform and enables it with vehicle surveillance capabilities by providing instant notifications (alarms) for vehicles of interest and unusual driving patterns as well as LP based search for the surveillance video records related to the registered events. ImmerVision enables 360° video standard and delivers plug and play integration, full 360° coverage with no blind spots and immersive navigation of live or recorded de-warped videos on the Ocularis platform from major panomorph camera brands Sony, Brickcom, Arecont, Speco, CNB, UDP and more. Pivot3 hyper-converged infrastructure combines storage and server resources for surveillance into a single appliance. Pivot3 provides VMS failover, data protection, and 99.999% reliability to store and protect critical video data.

The Ocularis PSIM allows APD to access surveillance cameras at the schools for improved situational awareness On-Net Surveillance Systems, Inc. (OnSSI) announces that the Atlanta Public School System has implemented OnSSI’s Ocularis video-centric PSIM (physical security information management), enabling the Atlanta Police Department (APD) to access surveillance cameras at the schools for improved situational awareness in the event of an incident or emergency. The highly-efficient and cost-effective IP video surveillance solution is part of the school system’s initiative to upgrade its older analog cameras on an ongoing basis. “This application leverages Ocularis’ ability to create a collaborative environment so that law enforcement can improve awareness and response to unfolding events,” said Gadi Piran, President, OnSSI. “This cooperative approach to security between these two separate entities has the potential to greatly improve safety and security at the city’s public schools.” Officers in the Video Integration Center monitor the police department’s radio system, located in the same site as the emergency 911 system, so that Atlanta police are immediately aware if an emergency situation arises at one of the APS facilities. Operators are able to access cameras from that school to assess the situation and determine what, if any, response is needed. In the event of an emergency situation, dispatchers can continually relay information gathered from the video to first responders to provide immediate situational awareness to assist in the response. “Being able to relay real-time situational awareness about what is happening inside a school to those in the field improves the effectiveness of the response. In addition it ensures the safety of both first responders and those who are inside the school,” said Lt. Leanne Browning of the Atlanta Police Department. “The ability to push live video to our mobile command vehicle and allow those in the field to control the cameras and move them as needed is a powerful tool for mitigating the situation as quickly and safely as possible.” The system has also proven effective in non-emergency situations. Prior to implementation, the district faced a number of copper thefts from HVAC systems at schools. Thanks to the presence of cameras, motion detectors and increased lighting in previously vulnerable areas, the number of thefts has dropped dramatically. “This cooperative approach to security between these two separate entities has the potential to greatly improve safety and security at the city’s public schools” “Now that we have replaced most of our analog cameras with IP, we have all of the benefits of HD managed by OnSSI’s VMS technology,” said Charles Johnson, Building Integration/Systems Programmer with APS. “We can simply add new cameras to our management server and they are automatically added to the base servers. This also has helped us save costs since we can utilise multiple camera manufacturers.” “The issue of safety in all schools is one that I consider to be very important”, said Olufemi Aina, Executive Director, IT Infrastructure & Production Services, Atlanta Public Schools. “The fact that the APD 911 Call Center now has the ability to quickly access our video cameras to provide tactical support to officers real-time (in an emergency) is something that I think all K12 schools should consider or aspire to achieve. Being on the front seat of an initiative that impacts our kids in such a manner is personally satisfying.” Representatives from OnSSI, Atlanta Public Schools and the Atlanta Police Department will present a case study on this project at ASIS at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, September 29-October 2. A panel discussion on Wednesday, Oct. 1, from 1:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. will provide an in-depth look at how the Ocularis video management software has enabled the integration between the public schools’ and police department’s video surveillance systems to increase public safety and security.

OnSSI’s Ocularis v3.8 receives approval for use with Lenel’s OnGuard access control security system On-Net Surveillance Systems Inc. (OnSSI) has received factory certification from Lenel Systems International Inc. and joined the Lenel OpenAccess Alliance Program (OAAP). OnSSI’s Ocularis video-centric physical security information management (PSIM) now interfaces with the Lenel OnGuard access control system to enable seamless functionality between both systems. The certification validates bidirectional integration of OnGuard and Ocularis for a more comprehensive and effective physical security system. The certification is significant because Lenel recently announced an end-of-life for the SkyPoint video management system (VMS), an OEM product developed by OnSSI for Lenel. The certification enables customers to seamlessly upgrade their SkyPoint VMS to Ocularis.  “OnSSI has completed required factory testing at Lenel to validate the functionality of its interface to the OnGuard system. The management of multiple cameras and event handling can all be accomplished through OnGuard,” said Gidon Lissai, director of strategic alliances, Lenel. “We look forward to OnSSI’s continued involvement in the Lenel OpenAccess Alliance Program.” “Ocularis certification by Lenel was a key goal for us, and provides a convenient, high-performance migration and integration road map for both SkyPoint VMS and Ocularis users,” said Gadi Piran, president and chief technology officer, OnSSI. “The upgrade path is free and easy. It provides a broad base of customers with easy access to the latest features and functionality of Ocularis.” OnSSI’s Ocularis offers comprehensive video surveillance and access control event management for streaming, recording and managing an unlimited number of cameras at multiple sites with PSIM functionality. Ocularis’ work flow provides a collaborative environment in which video and alerts from across the organization are organized into meaningful events for efficient shared handling and documentation. Available in five feature sets, each of which employs 64-bit architecture for optimized performance, Ocularis meets the video surveillance and security needs of organizations of all sizes and structures.