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Matrox Graphics Inc. will demonstrate a variety of ground-breaking, IP-based innovations at the 2018 Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC). Featuring the industry’s highest-quality capture and encoding technology at the lowest bitrates, Matrox Maevex enterprise encoders, Extio 3 IP KVM extenders, and Mura IPX video wall and multiviewer cards will stream, extend, record, decode, display, and control multiple 4K video content on advanced modeling, simulation, and training systems—all deployed on a standard one Gigabit Ethernet network. I/ITSEC attendees will get a first-hand look at an uncompromised, high-performance 4K-over-IP ecosystem—from capture all the way to consumption—that is critical for a wide range of virtual and immersive training applications in the government, military, industry, and academic and research sectors. Simultaneous Capture, Streaming And Recording Matrox Extio 3 IP KVM extenders provide seamless control of training and simulation systems from a distanceMatrox Maevex 6120 and Maevex 6150 dual and quad 4K enterprise encoders allow for the simultaneous capture, streaming, and recording of multiple 4K inputs. These powerful all-in-one appliances deliver content to on-premises endpoints, to cloud and internet services, and also record for later editing and viewing, concurrently. Matrox Extio 3 IP KVM extenders provide seamless control of training and simulation systems from a distance. Delivering exceptional 4Kp60 4:4:4 or quad 1080p60 4:4:4 performance over a standard 1 GbE network—at unprecedentedly low bitrates—Extio 3 enables the design of a scalable and cost-effective KVM matrix over IP to securely route any system to any remote location on the network. Monitoring And Visualization Of Data Points Matrox Mura IPX video wall and multiviewer cards offer the highest-density capture, encode, decode, and display capabilities on the smallest footprint. The versatile Mura IPX cards are ideal for the monitoring and visualization of many data points (baseband, IP, or local applications), as well as for sharing and/or recording—either a region of interest or the entire video wall—for real-time information sharing or review purposes. See Matrox in action at I/ITSEC 2018 (Orlando, USA), booth 627, from November 26-30, 2018.

From 20th to 22th January, INTERSEC 2019 in Dubai will showcase the latest products in Security, Safety and Fire Protection. Bosch Building Technologies will display its innovative security, safety and communications products on booth SAB21, Saeed Hall 1.   Bosch FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i Once again Bosch is pushing the technological boundaries with the launch of the FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i fixed dome cameras. Developed with Bosch’s starlight technology, HDR, plus HD 1080p, 6 megapixel, or 4K Ultra HD resolution to provide detail even in extreme low-light situations. The value of this superior clarity is enhanced with the built-in state-of-the-art Intelligent Video Analytics, which provides incredible accuracy even in challenging conditions and over expansive areas. It’s also smart enough to interpret data to a level of detail that goes beyond the requirements of security alone and provide tangible benefits to your business. Bosch Video Management System 9.0 That is why BVMS 9.0 puts the ‘UserFirst’ with enhanced user experience and reduced storage consumption The security industry is driven by a constant stream of new innovations. However, innovation can have a negative knock-on effect when it leads to increased complexity, makes installation more complicated, set-up more confusing and the operation more strenuous. That is why BVMS 9.0 puts the ‘UserFirst’ with enhanced user experience and reduced storage consumption. BVMS 9.0 fully supports Intelligent streaming, an advanced technology developed to substantially reduce bitrates without compromising image quality. Combined with built-in Intelligent Dynamic Noise Reduction and H.265 video encoding, bitrates can be reduced by up to 80 percent. As a result, security managers or IT managers can substantially lower their storage costs and network strain. Besides cost-efficiency, BVMS 9.0 introduces a completely renewed graphical user interface (GUI), including a unified color scheme, whilst alerts, maintenance messages and notifications are clearly displayed in color against a dark grey background. This development improves the levels of security considerably having been designed to ensure the operator’s attention is directly drawn to objects or events of significance. PRAESENSA Public Address PRAESENSA is the latest Public Address and Voice Alarm System from Bosch – IP-connected and fully-featured. All components of the system are networked, thereby ensuring the highest flexibility and scalability from small centralized to large decentralized systems. The Bosch OMNEO IP architecture supports Dante audio networking, AES67 and AES70 protocol. PRAESENSA offers special features for the highest level of data security and full network link redundancy The innovative multi-channel amplifier architecture with intelligent power allocation across the amplifier outputs and integrated spare channel significantly improves the effective utilization of available power, regardless of the loudspeaker load in each zone. As a result, fewer amplifiers are needed, saving up to 50 percent on space, energy and backup battery power and a very competitive cost of ownership. PRAESENSA offers special features for the highest level of data security and full network link redundancy with smart integration of functions and backup facilities. No single point of failure is core to the system concept and only a few different devices are needed to fulfill all system and user needs. The Call station of PRAESENSA was recently awarded by the International Design Award Red Dot. LB20 Commercial Loudspeakers The LB20 series is the latest member of the Bosch family of compact loudspeakers for installed applications. Every aspect of the LB20 series has been designed from the ground up to ensure efficient installation for the contractor and excellent results for the end-user. The series includes 4-inch, 5.25-inch, and 8-inch 2-way models with a matching dual-10-inch subwoofer, making it easy to select a suitable model a specific space – a new go-to solution for distributed sound systems. All LB20 models offer Bosch-engineered components for superior sound quality, low-profile looks and robust reliability for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. These include retail environments, hospitality settings, such as bars, lounges, patios, pool areas and restaurants. Conference and meeting rooms, fitness clubs, performing arts and sports venues and houses of worship. An IP65 weatherproof version is available for the 5.25-inch loudspeaker cabinet and the subwoofer models The series offers true weatherproof construction for outdoor spaces, confirmed by extensive and rigorous testing above and beyond industry norms. All models are paintable and IP54 certified for weather resistance; an IP65 weatherproof version is available for the 5.25-inch loudspeaker cabinet and the subwoofer models. DICENTIS Conference System The requirements for interpreting have increased in recent years. Not only are more languages needed at international conferences, there is also a growing need for more installation and configuration flexibility in interpreting systems as well as excellent user experience. Answering these needs, Bosch has expanded the DICENTIS family with the DICENTIS Interpreter desk. Speaking the language of the interpreter is what the DICENTIS Interpreter desk is designed to do. By observing and interviewing expert interpreters and technicians worldwide, the desk has been optimized for the real-life needs of interpreters. The DICENTIS Interpreter desk has received the iF Design Award An interpreter desk that complies with the latest as well as future market requirements and provides the interpreter with maximum freedom to focus on the job through intuitive operation and best-in-class user experience. The installation and configuration of the system is quick and easy. The state-of-the-art IP technology provides the highest flexibility and enables smooth third-party integration into a future-proof solution. The DICENTIS Interpreter desk has received the iF Design Award. Sony Video Security The new SNC-HMX70 360-degree hemispheric-view camera from Sony covers the whole scene without any blind spots to ensure 24/7 situational awareness. The camera’s 12-megapixel CMOS sensor captures crisp, detail-packed video at 30 fps, while built-in analytics allow reliable detection and tracking of moving objects. Sony will launch a new range of Minidome IP cameras, more details will be revealed at INTERSEC. The new range incorporates Sony´s Exmor or ExmorR sensors and provides a more cost effective easy-to-install, 24/7 video surveillance solution for indoor and outdoor applications. The six new camera models include key features such as smart codec technology, H.265, powerful on-board video analytics capabilities, as well as indoor and outdoor IR capability. They are designed to complement and expand the existing Sony line-up while maintaining full compatibility with existing accessories for easy installation. AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 for video-based fire detection is now VdS-certified AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 for video-based fire detection, which has won several awards over the last two years, is now VdS-certified and the perfect answer for facilities used for industry, transportation, warehousing and utilities such as energy to minimize detection time with low false alarm rates. Bosch technology spots fires and disturbances, predicts behaviour to reduce false alarms and speeds up reaction times – helping you stop threats before they spread. Bosch’s newest planning and support tool enables users a precise design according to EN-54 regulations, including the allocation of peripherals on different loops. Taking into consideration the actual topology, the Safety Systems Designer ensures that every project detail is taken into account. This is made possible through a complete plausibility check and the automatized as well as customized provision of a comprehensive documentation, fitted precisely to your needs.

IDIS America will make its first appearance at the ISC East security trade show in booth #251, November 14-15, at the Javits Center in New York, to highlight the company’s award-winning end-to-end video surveillance solution, and speak to the specific market-needs and requirements of integrators partners in the region, as well as key vertical industries concentrated in the eastern United States. At ISC East, IDIS will demonstrate key offerings from the IDIS Total Solution—an end-to-end, single sourced offering that delivers exceptional plug-and-play simplicity combined with highest-quality performance and a low total cost of ownership. Compatibility, now featuring the longest recorder warranty in the industry, with a low total cost of ownership. Additionally, IDIS’s critical failover features and hardened network security protocols provide complete reassurance against a full spectrum of risks. IR Fisheye Camera And H.265 4K Recorder IDIS technology featured at ISC East will include the DirectIP 12MP Vandal-Resistant IR Fisheye Camera with true WDRIDIS technology featured at ISC East will include the DirectIP 12MP Vandal-Resistant IR Fisheye Camera with true WDR and both onboard camera- and client-side image dewarping (including mobile devices, client PCs, and NVRs); the DirectIP 8300 Series 64 Channel H.265 4K Recorder, delivering enterprise-level performance with a single next-generation NVR; and IDIS VA in the Box, a powerfully versatile analytics tool that arms small- and medium-sized businesses, especially retail operations, with the business intelligence they need to make to be as competitive as possible. The IDIS booth will also feature a robust preview of the company’s new IDIS Compact Solutions line, a choice of network and HD-TVI cameras and recorders, easy to install and configure, at a highly competitive price point. The line, designed for rapid installations (including multi-site rollouts), comes without any compromise on IDIS’s signature reliability and performance and addresses specific requirements and challenges of both integrators and end-users looking to protect small- and medium-sized operations in a variety of vertical markets, including retail. Connecting With Current And Potential Partners The technology solutions IDIS will feature are all key components of the latest offering in the powerful IDIS Total Solution“IDIS is looking forward to joining the conversation at ISC East this year,” noted Keith Drummond, Senior Director, IDIS America. “ISC East’s reputation as a valuable forum to address regional challenges and highlight industry innovation is well known, and the show will provide IDIS with the opportunity to connect with current and potential partners end-users from the east coast and beyond in a direct and meaningful way. “We’ll be highlighting technologies developed to meet market-identified challenges, and showing how they can specifically meet the challenges and requirements most common in the region. We look forward to a great show.” The technology solutions IDIS will feature at ISC East are all key components of the latest offering in the powerful and award-winning IDIS Total Solution.

Johnson Controls developed the competitive Illustra IR PTZ camera with powerful zoom and control capabilities to handle even the most challenging lighting conditions. Illustra Flex IR PTZ indoor and outdoor cameras feature a 30x optical and 12x digital magnification to effectively resolve scene details at up to 1000 feet. The powerful IR illuminators on the outdoor model allow for a night scene illumination of up to 150m. Packaged in a bubble-free, environmentally sealed, and vandal-resistant design, the Flex IR PTZ maximizes video quality at any tilt angle. Rigorous Security Standards Illustra IntelliZip provides powerful bandwidth management beyond H.264 and H.265, reducing network bandwidth and video storage requirements. This embedded technology continuously monitors and optimizes system streaming parameters to match the level of activity within the camera’s field of view, offsetting the added video storage required when streaming at 4K resolution. For crystal clear images day and night, the versatile Illustra Flex cameras feature True Day/Night and True Wide Dynamic Range for balanced images in challenging lighting conditions. The Flex IR PTZ adheres to the rigorous security standards of the Tyco Cyber Protection Product Security Program. The holistic cyber approach begins at the initial design concept, continuing through product development, and is supported through deployment.

Looking to aggressively extend their existing presence throughout the South-Central US, BCDVideo announced they are appointing Campion Sales to represent their product portfolio. Campion Sales, a ninety-year-old company, has spent the last twenty years focused on the security industry. BCDVideo’s products will interweave with Campion’s wide array of complementary products ranging from building automation, 4K IP cameras, detection systems, video walls, and dozens of other solutions for the security integrator. Promoting BCDVideo’s Products Campion Sales will promote the entire BCDVideo product line, including their access control and video surveillance recording servers“As well as what we have been doing in the region, what we have been lacking is feet on the street and more localized face-to-face training with our customer base. Campion delivers all of that for us with their proven sales force and sales strategies; plus, this gets the BCDVideo brand into new customer opportunities with the combined breadth of our two product lines,” states Jeff Burgess, President, and CEO of BCDVideo. Campion Sales will promote the entire BCDVideo product line, including their access control and video surveillance recording servers, environmentally hardened products, networking products, GPU servers, and workstations, as well as several private-label systems that BCDVideo builds for key original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers. “We are excited to be representing a top manufacturer with a focus on superior service and an innovative product offering,” said Lynn Dabney Vice President, National Accounts at Campion Sales. “We are looking forward to a long-term, successful partnership.”

HID Global®, a provider of identity solutions, announced it has dramatically elevated the machine learning capabilities in its HID Condition Monitoring solution through high-bandwidth vibration sensors that help manufacturing facilities employ AI-based technology to monitor the health and performance of motors, rotating equipment, and other assets.  The cost-effective solution makes it possible for plant managers to extend their predictive maintenance strategies to all factory assets that, until now, have typically been vulnerable to unexpected downtime and repairs.  HID Condition Monitoring Specification  ID Condition Monitoring, enabled by Bluvision™, features the new high-performance BEEKs™ Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons for on/off detection, duty cycles, temperature and vibration monitoring. Their enhanced measurement, edge computing and machine learning capabilities use high-speed vibration trend analytics and cloud-based AI to learn baseline pre-deployment behaviors to generate a model of normal activity. In addition to triggering real-time alerts immediately upon detecting a change in status, this data enables facilities to better establish proactive maintenance, inspection and operation strategies and drives more informed decision making. Edge computing and machine learning capabilities use high-speed vibration trend analytics “Our low-cost condition monitoring solution offers real-time, continuous visibility into the operating behavior of machines that were previously unmonitored due to cost restrictions, making it possible for smart manufacturing plants to address downtime beyond critical and semi-critical equipment,” said Brad Hopkins, Director of Condition Monitoring Product Management, HID Global. “Together with AI-driven cloud analytics, plant managers can now use historical trends and notifications to enhance their predictive maintenance approach throughout the entire factory or fleet, which helps reduce unplanned downtime across the board." Smarter Operations Installed in 15 facilities at global consumer goods manufacturer to integrate deep vibration analysis with programmable logic controller and computerized maintenance management system data to make better maintenance decisions. Major airports in the United States and Europe are using HID Condition Monitoring at baggage claim carousels, escalators and other “people mover” systems to reduce gate-to-curb times, while driving more predictive maintenance models. One of the world’s largest steel manufacturers uses HID’s solution to monitor temperature and vibration on motors in a 70 to 80 degrees Celsius environment. This enhances their predictive maintenance strategy and helps reduce the unplanned downtime of their equipment, which is responsible for an annual crude capacity of 25.3 million tons.  AI Driven Condition Monitoring Solution Our AI-driven condition monitoring solution provides a quick and easy way for these companies to gather and monitor actionable data" John Sailer, Chief Operating Officer of Bluvision added, “The combination of the beacon’s sophisticated features and our cloud processing engine enables companies to address real problems in a very different manner than traditional solutions that are predicated on manual machine monitoring and planned maintenance strategies.  Instead, our AI-driven condition monitoring solution provides a quick and easy way for these companies to gather and monitor actionable data needed for predictive maintenance programs, while also moving toward Industry 4.0 for smarter operations.” In addition to a range of manufacturing use cases, HID Condition Monitoring is ideal for cold chain supply management, where temperature-sensitive products (such as food, medicines and vaccines) can be monitored throughout production, storage and distribution. Major OEMs are also offering HID Condition Monitoring to smart manufacturing plants across a variety of industries around the world.

Timely and important issues in the security marketplace dominated our list of most-clicked-upon articles in 2018. Looking back at the top articles of the year provides a decent summary of how our industry evolved this year, and even offers clues to where we’re headed in 2019. In the world of digital publishing, it’s easy to know what content resonates with the security market: Our readers tell us with their actions; i.e., where they click. Let’s look back at the Top 10 articles we posted in 2018 that generated the most page views. They are listed in order here with a brief excerpt. 1. U.S. President Signs Government Ban On Hikvision and Dahua Video Surveillance The ban on government uses, which takes effect ‘not later than one year after … enactment,’ applies not only to future uses of Dahua and Hikvision equipment but also to legacy installations. The bill calls for an assessment of the current presence of the banned technologies and development of a ‘phase-out plan’ to eliminate the equipment from government uses. 2. Motorola Makes A Splash With Avigilon Video Surveillance Acquisition Early clues point to Motorola positioning Avigilon as part of a broader solution, especially in the municipal/safe cities market. The company says the acquisition will enable more safe cities projects and more public-private partnerships between local communities and law enforcement. Motorola sees Avigilon as ‘a natural extension to global public safety and U.S. federal and military’ applications, according to the company. 3. Impact Of Data-Driven Smart Cities On Video Surveillance One of the major areas of technology that is going to shift how we interact with our cities is the Internet of Things (IoT). One benefit will be the ability to use video surveillance to analyze data on large crowds at sporting events The IoT already accounts for swaths of technology and devices operating in the background. However, we’re increasingly seeing these come to the forefront of everyday life, as data becomes increasingly critical. Bosch is highlighting its “Simply. Connected” portfolio of smart city technology to transform security as well as urban mobility, air quality and energy efficiency 4. CES 2018: Security Technologies Influencing The Consumer Electronics Market Familiar players at security shows also have a presence at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). For example, Bosch is highlighting its “Simply. Connected” portfolio of smart city technology to transform security as well as urban mobility, air quality and energy efficiency. Many consumer technologies on display offer a glimpse of what’s ahead for security. Are Panasonic’s 4K OLEDs with HDR10+ format or Sony’s A8F OLED televisions a preview of the future of security control room monitors? 5. SIA Predicts Top Physical Security Trends For 2018 Traditional security providers will focus more on deepening the customer experience and enhancing convenience and service. The rise of IoT also places an emphasis on cybersecurity, and security dealers will react by seeking manufacturers and technology partners with cyber-hardened network-connected devices. 6. High-Speed Visitor Screening Systems Will Improve Soft Target Security The system is more expensive than a metal detector, but about a third the cost of familiar airport body scanners. Labor reduction (because of faster throughput) can help offset the system costs, but “it’s difficult to quantify the improvement in the visitor experience,” says Mike Ellenbogen, CEO of Evolv Technology. 7. How To Prevent ATM Jackpotting With Physical And Cyber Security A new crime wave is hitting automated teller machines (ATMs); the common banking appliances are being rigged to spit out their entire cash supplies into a criminal’s waiting hands. The crime is called “ATM jackpotting” and has targeted banking machines located in grocery shops, pharmacies and other locations in Taiwan, Europe, Latin America and, in the last several months, the United States. Rough estimates place the total amount of global losses at up to $60 million. The safety and security world bring a complex problem to solve how to pick out a face in a moving and changing environment and compare it to several faces of interest 8. Why We Need To Look Beyond Technology For Smart City Security Solutions Although technology is necessary for an urban area to transition in to a safe and smart city, technology alone isn’t sufficient. Truly smart cities are savvy cities and that includes how they employ software, sensing, communications and other technologies to meet their needs. 9. How New Video Surveillance Technology Boosts Airport Security and Operations Employing airport security solutions is a complex situation with myriad government, state and local rules and regulations that need to be addressed while ensuring the comfort needs of passengers. Airport security is further challenged with improving and increasing operational efficiencies, as budgets are always an issue. As an example, security and operational data must be easily shared with other airport departments and local agencies such as police, customs, emergency response and airport operations to drive a more proactive approach across the organization. 10. The Evolution Of Facial Recognition From Body-Cams To Video Surveillance The safety and security world bring a complex problem to solve how to pick out a face in a moving and changing environment and compare it to several faces of interest. “One-to-many” facial recognition is a much harder problem to solve.

With increased demands being placed on safety and security globally, and supported by advancements in IP cameras and 360-degree camera technology, the video surveillance industry is growing steadily. Market research indicates that this worldwide industry is expected to reach an estimated $39.3 billion in revenue by 2023, driven by a CAGR of 9.3 percent from 2018 to 2023. Video surveillance is not just about capturing footage (to review an event or incident when it occurs), but also about data analysis delivering actionable insights that can improve operational efficiencies, better understand customer buying behaviors, or simply just provide added value and intelligence. Growth of Ultra-HD Surveillance To ensure that the quality of the data is good enough to extract the details required to drive these insights, surveillance cameras are technologically evolving as well, not only with expanded capabilities surrounding optical zoom and motion range,4K Ultra HD-compliant networked cameras are expected to grow from 0.4 percent shipped in 2017, to 28 percent in 2021 but also relating to improvements in signal-to-noise (S2N) ratios, light sensitivities (and the minimum illumination needed to produce usable images), wide dynamic ranges (WDR) for varying foreground and background illumination requirements, and of course, higher quality resolutions. As such, 4K Ultra HD-compliant networked cameras are expected to grow from 0.4 percent shipped in 2017, to 28 percent in 2021, representing an astonishing 170 percent growth per year, and will require three to six times the storage space of 1080p video dependent on the compression technology used. Surveillance cameras are typically connected to a networked video recorder (NVR) that acts as a gateway or local server, collecting data from the cameras and running video management software (VMS), as well as analytics. Capturing this data is dependent on the communications path between individual cameras and the NVR. If this connection is lost, whether intentional, unintentional, or a simple malfunction, surveillance video will no longer be captured and the system will cease operations. Therefore, it has become common to use microSD cards in surveillance cameras as a failsafe mechanism. Despite lost connectivity to the NVR, the camera can still record and capture raw footage locally until the network is restored, which in itself, could take a long time depending on maintenance staff or equipment availability, weather conditions, or other unplanned issues. Since microSD cards play a critical role as a failsafe mechanism to ensure service availability, it is important to choose the right card for capturing video footage.  It has become common to use microSD cards in surveillance cameras as a failsafe mechanism if an NVR breaks Key Characteristics Of microSDs There are many different microSD cards to choose from for video capture at the network’s edge, and they range from industrial grade capabilities to commercial or retail grade, and everything in-between. To help make some of these uncertainties a little more certain, here are the key microSD card characteristics for video camera capture. Designed For Surveillance As the market enjoys steady growth, storage vendors want to participate and have done so with a number of repurposed, repackaged, remarketed microSD cards targeted for video surveillance but with not much robustness, performance or capabilities specific to the application. Adding the absence of mean-time between failure (MTBF) specifications to the equation, microSD card reliability is typically a perceived measurement -- measured in hours of operation and relatively vague and hidden under metrics associated with the camera’s resolution and compression ratio. Therefore, when selecting a microSD card for surveillance cams at the edge, the choice should include a vendor that is trusted, has experience and a proven storage portfolio in video surveillance, and in microSD card technologies. Endurance, as it relates to microSD cards, represents the number of rewrites possible before the card can no longer store data correctly  High Endurance Endurance, as it relates to microSD cards, represents the number of rewrites (program/erase cycles) that are possible before the card can no longer store data correctly. The rewrite operation is cyclical whereby a new stream of footage replaces older content by writing over it until the card is full, and the cycle repeats. The higher the endurance, the longer the card will perform before it needs to be replaced. Endurance is also referred to in terabytes written (TBW) or by the number of hours that the card can record continuously (while overwriting data) before a failure will occur. Health Monitoring Health monitoring is a desired capability that not many microSD cards currently support and enables the host system to check when the endurance levels of a card are low and needs to be replaced. Having a card that supports this capability enables system integrators and operators with the ability to perform preemptive maintenance that will help to reduce system failures, as well as associated maintenance costs. Performance To capture continuous streams of raw footage, microSD cards within surveillance cams perform write operations about seventy to ninety percent of the time, whereas reading captured footage is performed about ten to thirty percent. The difference in read/write performance is dependent on whether the card is used in an artificial intelligent (AI) capable camera, or a standard one.   microSD cards deployed within surveillance cameras should support temperature ranges from -25 degrees Celsius to 85 degrees Celsius Finding a card that is write-friendly, and can provide enough bandwidth to properly capture streamed data, and is cost-effective, requires one that falls between fast industrial card capabilities and slower commercial ones. Bandwidth in the range of 50 MB/sec for writes and 80 MB/sec for reads are typical and sufficient for microSD cards deployed within surveillance cameras. Temperature Ranges Lower capacity support of 32GB can provide room to attract the smaller or entry-level video surveillance deployments As microSD cards must be designed for continuous operation in extreme weather conditions and a variety of climates, whether located indoors or out, support for various temperature ranges are another consideration. Given the wide spectrum of temperatures required by the camera makers, microSD cards deployed within surveillance cameras should support temperature ranges from -25 degrees Celsius to 85 degrees Celsius, or in extreme cases, as low as -40 degrees Celsius. Capacity Selecting the right-sized capacity is also very important as there needs to be a minimum level to ensure that there is enough room to hold footage for a number of days or weeks before it is overwritten or the connectivity to the NVR is restored. Though 64GB is considered the capacity sweet spot for microSD cards deployed within surveillance cameras today, lower capacity support of 32GB can provide room to attract the smaller or entry-level video surveillance deployments. In the future, even higher capacities will be important for specific use cases and will potentially become standard capacities as the market evolves. When choosing the right storage microSD card to implement into your video surveillance system, make sure the card is designed specifically for the application – does it include the right levels of endurance and performance to capture continuous streams – can it withstand environmental challenges and wide temperature extremes – will it enable preventative and preemptive maintenance to provide years of service? It is critical for the surveillance system to be able to collect video footage whether the camera is connected to an NVR or is a standalone camera as collecting footage at the base of the surveillance system is the most crucial point of failure. As such, failsafe mechanisms are required to keep the camera recording until the network is restored.

In the state of the residential security market today, we see many who are offering home security packages that rely on numerous sensors and multiple devices to provide a comprehensive coverage of the home and provide peace of mind. Each individual sensor or device within the package provides a specific functionality, and the user finds himself burdened by an overwhelming amount of sensors and devices. This overload is intensified by the penetration of additional IoT and smart devices into the home, such as pet-cams or smart speakers that add to the burden of installation and maintenance. In addition, we are witnessing the rise in popularity of DIY security devices, indicating that users are looking for models and technologies that provide both contract flexibility and simplicity of use. The past years have seen major advancements in radar technology, which have brought the formerly military technology into the consumer space. Radars provide interesting prospects for home security and smart homes due to several inherent characteristics which give it an advantage over existing technologies. The resolution of an advanced radar sensor enables not only presence detection, but also provides advanced features for security, automation and well-being Advanced Security And Automation Features Of primary importance, a consumer designed radar sensor provides the user with full privacy, but the use of radar is also beneficial because it is indifferent to environmental, temperature and lighting conditions. In addition, radar signals (at certain frequencies) are capable of penetrating through almost any type of material, enabling concealed installation, robust monitoring in cluttered spaces and even the coverage of several separate rooms with only one device. In terms of capabilities, simple time of flight 2-antenna radar sensors, which have been around for a while, do not provide much additional value in comparison to existing solutions and are not necessarily competitive in terms of pricing. However, the new generation of radar sensors are also opening up new capabilities previously achieved with optics only. Today, the resolution of an advanced radar sensor is high enough to enable not only presence detection, but also to provide advanced features for security, automation and well-being, all in one. Imagine for example, that the security sensor installed in your elderly parent’s home could also detect a fall having occurred, monitor the breathing of a baby or even leaks in your wall. Due to the unique field of view that radar provides as well as the multi-functional potential, this technology will be the key to the awaited convergence of smart home functionalities and minimization of home devices. The security sensor installed in your elderly parent’s home could also detect a fall having occurred Secret Of The Consumer Radar A radar sensor’s accuracy and its ability to support wide functionality and applications is determined initially by its resolution, which is based on two key factors: bandwidth and number of channels. The wider the bandwidth and the more channels the radar supports, the more accurate the data received. Imagine the difference between a 1990s television model and a 4K 2018 television model - As the resolution is ever improving, the sharper and more detailed is the image. When looking at the short-range radar sensor market, prominent companies such as Texas Instruments and NXP are offering radar-on-chip solutions supporting 2\3 transmitters (Tx) and 3\4 receivers (Rx), mainly utilizing frequency bands of 77-81GHz, as they target mostly automotive and autonomous driving applications. Another company that develops such radar-on-chip solution is Vayyar Imaging, an Israeli start-up, founded in 2011, that developed a radar sensor for 3D imaging. Vayyar Imaging directly targets the smart home and security markets with its radar-on-chip, developing modules and products for intruder detection, automation and elderly care (fall detection). Providing not only chips, but complete systems, the new model makes radar technology highly available and accessible. The radar-on-chip technology opens the door to installation of security and well-being devices in locations where privacy or environmental conditions pose an issue Radar-On-Chip Solution The radar-on-chip solution supports 72 full transceivers, an integrated DSP and radar bands between 3-81GHz. The resolution provided by this type of specification is high enough to provide subtle information about people’s real time location posture (lying down\falling\sitting\walking), and breathing, and enables to classify pets from humans, but it is low enough as to not compromise privacy. This type of technology opens the door to installation of security and well-being devices in locations where privacy or environmental conditions pose an issue, such as in bathrooms or heavily lit environments. Moreover, utilization of this technology allows to dramatically minimise the numbers of sensors installed in the home, as it provides full home coverage with just one or two sensors and enables using the same HW to support additional capabilities such as breath monitoring, fall detection and highly accurate automation. Using AI and machine learning, the data derived by these sensors can be leveraged to provide smarter, verified alerts on the one hand and whole new insights on the on the other. The sensor can be tuned to learn the location of the house entrances or boundaries, where the inhabitants are expected to be at night, or where they should be expected to enter from into the home, adding new logics to the traditional yes\no decision making. Home security is widely regarded as a necessity, provides peace of mind to people and is integral to people's day to day lives Additional Smart Home Services Among the evolving home technology verticals, security is by far the most relevant and integral to people’s day to day lives. Home security is widely regarded as a necessity and provides peace of mind to people. Being a legacy industry with many well-known and well-trusted brands, security players are well positioned to introduce new technology into the home and have the ability and credibility to expand their offerings to additional smart home services by utilizing existing infrastructure and channels. With technology giants entering the security arena through the smart home door the DIY security solution market expected to explode with a CAGR of 22.4% (according to a report by Persistence Market Research). Now that new pricing and service models offer minimal commitment, traditional security players will need to step up. Security companies will need to explore new technologies and expand their offering if they intend to stay relevant and competitive in a market trending on functionality converge and minimization of maintenance and installation costs.

Security is among the defining topics at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2019 this week in Las Vegas. More than 4,500 exhibiting companies are participating, including some 1,200 startups, highlighting the next wave of innovation in consumer electronics – and security. Twenty-four product categories at CES feature solutions to transform how consumers live, work and play. Technologies being highlighted include 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented and virtual reality, smart homes, smart cities, and machine intelligence. Video is an important element at CES. This year, the focus is on intelligent video. For example, Eyecloud.ai, Santa Clara, Calif., is displaying a home security camera with on-device face recognition that uses AI. Powered by a 12-core Intel Movidius VPU (video processing unit), the camera combines AI-on-the-edge with easy setup and wirefree operation for up to six months per battery charge. On-Device Artificial Intelligence On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation SimCam, an Intel partner, demonstrates how the Intel Movidius VPU can turn a security camera into ‘the ultimate vision-based sensor’. On-device AI is the next big trend in smart home surveillance, and deep neural networks will drive the future of do-it-yourself home automation. A variety of other residential video systems are also on display at CES. For example, Swann Security is displaying 4K wired security systems featuring Google integration, a wireless smart security camera with True Detect heat-based PIR (photo infrared) motion detection, a video doorbell and chime with two-way talk, and indoor and outdoor wi-fi cameras with Alexa integrations. Intelligent Automotive Solutions Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES. It combines advanced image processing, high-resolution video encoding and CVflow computer vision (video analytics) processing in a single, extremely low-power design. The CVflow architecture provides Deep Neural Network (DNN) processing required for a new generation of affordable and intelligent home monitoring, professional surveillance and aftermarket automotive solutions. CV25 offers half the performance of Ambarella’s previously released CV22 chip, but the new chip’s lower cost will bring intelligent cameras to a price point desirable for home systems. All Ambarella’s chips have hardware-based cybersecurity. A suite of advanced cybersecurity features protects against hacking, including secure boot, TrustZone, and I/O virtualization. Based on 10nm ultra-low power processing technology, the CV25 chip is optimized for wirefree cameras applications that require long battery life and small form factors. Camera system-on-chip (SoC) company Ambarella is introducing the new CV25 camera SoC at CES Virtual Security Guards Elsewhere, the Deep Sentinel home security system applies video and AI to predict residential break-ins ‘before they happen’. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based tech startup uses ‘AI-infused security cameras’ to keep an eye on your home. Three wireless 1080p full HD cameras provide night vision and PIR motion sensing, connected by a smart hub. Using proprietary artificial intelligence, the cameras act as virtual guards, watching activity around a house and providing alerts to situations that may lead to burglaries, break-ins, package thefts and other dangers. My Safe Patrol is an AI-driven platform that analyses data aggregated from security personnel, citizen alert systems and IoT smart devices, and responds with geolocated alerts in real-time. My Safe Patrol effectively supports the security/safety ecosystem of a building, a campus, a city or a district through a dynamic dashboard that helps command and control operations manage and deploy security plans. AI-Integrated Devices Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously MicroVision, Redmond, Wash., showcases an interactive display engine for AI-connected devices, providing an integrated solution for projected display and interactivity through multi-point touch and air gestures. MicroVision’s new consumer 3D LiDAR engine provides high-fidelity spatial awareness to smart home hubs, for input to smart devices such as lighting, security, entertainment, and thermostats. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, and ThroughTek Co., Ltd., Taiwan, demonstrates IoT developments to transmit voice, video and data over both wide- and narrow-band channels in smart home applications. Showcased solutions include Smart Living integration of video surveillance applications combined with voice assistant to companion robots, wireless doorbells, and battery cameras to enable real-time two-way audio and video streaming simultaneously. Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen Decayeux Group, a European manufacturer of mailboxes and high security doors, is displaying MyColisBox, a secure and connected parcel box delivery system designed to provide online shoppers a secure pickup point accessible by a PIN code sent via SMS message to a smartphone. Walter is the new mobile app for MyColisBox. Kwikset, a division of Spectrum Brands, showcases its smart lock portfolio – including three new smart locks – in the CES Smart Home Marketplace. Kwikset is showing the SmartCode 888, Kwikset Convert, Obsidian, and new designs of the SmartCode 914 and SmartCode 916, as well as a new wi-fi lock. Baldwin, Kwikset’s ‘luxury lock’ sister company, is offering a preview of its new TouchScreen Collection, launching this summer, available in five styles and featuring Advanced Capacitive Touchscreen technology. The Internet of Things (IoT) is another big topic at CES, with many companies demonstrating IoT developments Cyber Security Standards Privacy is increasingly a concern in the consumer space, and Private Discuss, from PIMAN Security, is a premium, secure, white label communication solution. Their active AI-powered defense architecture provides encrypted audio and video calls, messaging and file sharing. It renders a confidential, secure messaging platform that adheres to the highest standards of cybersecurity. FLIR provides virtual reality demonstrations at their CES booth, allowing attendees to put on a virtual fire helmet and try out a FLIR camera in a real-world residential fire response scenario. Participants may also use a FLIR optical gas imaging camera virtually to stop fugitive emissions in a natural gas refinery. Booth visitors may also take “thermal selfies” to post on social media.

Ambarella is a big player in the video surveillance market, but not a familiar name to many buyers of security cameras. They don’t make cameras, but they make the computer chips inside. Founded in 2004, Ambarella began in the broadcast infrastructure encoders market and entered the market for professional security cameras in 2008. More recently, the company has also entered the market for automotive OEM solutions. Between 2005 and 2015, the company has produced a progression of advanced camera system on chips (SoCs) designed, developed and mass-produced for the consumer electronics, broadcast and IP camera markets. An SoC includes an image processor as well as capabilities to run software and provide computer vision (analytics). Development has been happening fast at Ambarella. In January, they introduced the CV22 camera SoC, combining image processing, 4K and 60fps video encoding and computer vision (video analytics) processing in a single, low-power-design chip. CVflow architecture provides DNN (deep neural network) processing required for the next generation of intelligent cameras. The even newer CV2 camera SoC, introduced in late-March, delivers up to 20 times the deep neural network performance of Ambarella's first generation CV1 chip, also with low power consumption. I caught up with Chris Day, Ambarella’s vice president of marketing and business development, at the ISC West show to find out more about the company. Q: Your company is not as well known in the industry as it should be, given its widespread impact on the market. Would you prefer otherwise? Day: I think we would prefer more visibility. If you talk to any camera maker, they know who we are. We do business with all the top-10 camera companies – Hikvision, Dahua, Avigilon, Pelco and the rest. Because we are a chip supplier, the end-customer deciding to buy a camera may not know what chip is inside. For that reason, we may not have the visibility. But if you are a camera maker, you know who we are. Typically, it takes nine months to develop a camera, longer with an intelligent camera because you are importing so much software Q: What are you hearing from your camera customers in terms of what they need, and how are they directing where you go with R&D? Day: We have become a major supplier to those companies based on years of developing image processing – wide dynamic range, low light, and similar features – as well as AVC (advanced) and HEVC (high-efficiency) video encoding. That’s the heritage of our company and why we do business with all these companies. The next treadmill is computer vision – adding the intelligence into the camera. The goal is still being best-in-class in imaging and encoding, but now being best-in-class in adding the intelligence and being able to do all those things with very low power, within the “thermal budget” of the camera. That’s the next big wave. Q: How far away is that in terms of the end-customer? How soon will he or she be able to reap the benefits? Day: By the end of 2018, or maybe next year. We’re just beginning to sample the CV22, for instance, which is the first SoC directed to security cameras. Typically, it takes nine months to develop a camera, maybe longer with an intelligent camera because you are importing so much software. So, we’re talking about the end of this year or next year. Q: Tell me about your current products and the next generation. Day: The CV22 is sampling this quarter. CV2 we announced [in late March], which is a high-performance chip. The idea is that we provide our customers with different price/performance points, so they can produce a family of cameras with different capabilities. They have the same basic software model, so someone can invest in software once and then have different performance points without completely rewriting the software. That’s key. They might have 100 software engineers developing neural networks and all the features, so if you have to recreate that at different price points, it’s a lot of work. Ambarella provides customers with different price/performance points, so they can produce a family of cameras with different capabilities Q: Historically, video analytics have over-promised and under-delivered. What would you say to a sceptical user in terms of how much confidence they should have in the next wave of products? Day: Ambarella has been in the security business for 10 years, and some of us have been in the business for 15 years. Every year I’ve been disappointed by the analytics I have seen at the ISC West show. Every year there are incremental improvements – 2 percent, 5 percent, whatever – but in general, I became a sceptic, as well. What is fundamentally different now is the neural network approach to computer vision. Even for us developing these chips: In CV1 we had a certain level of deep neural network performance. We produced CV22 in the same year with four times the performance, and then CV2 has 20 times the performance in the space of one year. That’s just at the chip level. But the neural network approach to analytics and computer vision is game changing if you look at the things you can do with it compared to traditional analytics approaches. If you look at what it’s doing in automotive and security, you will see significant development. I totally appreciate the scepticism, but I think it is completely game-changing at this point, based on the technology in the chips and based on what’s happening with neural networks. Q: What do you think the next big thing is? Day: I think the next big thing is the neural networks; it’s the intelligence in the camera. People have been pushing toward higher resolution, we’ve done 4K, we have incredible imaging even in really dark scenes. So we have been solving all those problems. And so now to add the computer vision and be able to do that in parallel with the image processing and high-resolution encoding, and all in a chip that is low-power. That’s the differentiator. Q: What else is happening? Jerome Gigot, Senior Director Marketing: There is a lot happening on the consumer side, too, with the home security market. You will see cameras in your home with more and more intelligence. Some are used for video doorbells. On some of the new cameras, we have package notification – you get notified if a package arrives, or if someone steals your package. And new battery-powered cameras are very easy to install with no wires.

Security is more-than-ever linked to consumer electronics, especially in the residential/smart home market. CES 2018 in Las Vegas is therefore brimming with news that will have a direct impact on the security market, today and especially looking into the future. Products for the future of security   CES is a giant trade show for consumer electronics with 2.75 million net square feet of exhibitor space and featuring more than 3,900 exhibitors, including 900 startups - in contrast, ISC West has some 1,000 exhibitors. During the week-long show welcoming 170,000-plus attendees from 150 countries, more than 20,000 new products are being launched. The products incorporate ingredient technologies such as artificial intelligence and 5G that will also be familiar elements as the future of the security industry unfolds. Familiar players at security shows also have a presence at CES, and many consumer technologies on display offer a glimpse of what’s ahead for security The areas of consumer electronics and security are closely intertwined. For example, Apple recently expanded near-field communication (NFC) support to include the NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format), which will likely accelerate the adoption of smartphones for access control credentialing. In another recent development, Amazon acquired Blink, a home security camera startup that offers wireless home security systems. The acquisition aligns with Amazon’s effort to offer more home devices. Key Security Technologies At CES 2018 Familiar players at security shows also have a presence at CES. For example, Bosch is highlighting its “Simply. Connected” portfolio of smart city technology to transform security as well as urban mobility, air quality and energy efficiency. Many consumer technologies on display offer a glimpse of what’s ahead for security. Are Panasonic’s 4K OLEDs with HDR10+ format or Sony’s A8F OLED televisions a preview of the future of security control room monitors? At CES, Johnson Controls is announcing support for Apple HomeKit now offered in their DSC iotega wireless security and automation solution. Consumers can manage both their security system and also other home automation abilities using Apple’s Home app, or Siri on their iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch. Interlogix is announcing new features and components of its UltraSync SmartHome system, including hands-free voice control, high-definition cameras, an LTE cellular module and soon-to-be-released doorbell camera. The areas of consumer electronics and security are closely intertwined Developments In Crime Awareness ADT has a high profile at CES, including the launch of its ADT Go mobile app, equipped with 24/7 emergency response from ADT’s live monitoring agents and backed by Life360’s location technology, providing emergency response, family connectivity, safety assistance and crime awareness.  ADT is also unveiling a video doorbell and expanding its monitoring to cybersecurity. IC Realtime is introducing Ella, a cloud-based deep-learning search engine that augments surveillance systems with natural language search capabilities across recorded video footage. Ella enables any surveillance or security cameras to recognise objects, colours, people, vehicles and animals. Ella was designed using the technology backbone of Camio, a startup founded by ex-Googlers who designed a simpler way to apply searching to streaming video feeds. It’s a “Google for video:” Users can type in queries such as “white truck” to find every relevant video clip. Smarter homes and smarter computers Do-it-yourself smart home security company Abode Systems announces iota, an all-in-one system giving customers more freedom and flexibility to build out and monitor their smart home. The new form factor has a built-in full-HD resolution camera enabling customers to see and hear what’s going on in their home 24/7 while a built-in gateway supports hundreds of devices to make homes more convenient, safer and more secure. There is also support for Apple HomeKit. Highly programmable and high-performance platforms will no doubt play a role in the future of video surveillance systems in our market  The Z-Wave Alliance will host 30-plus leading smart home brands in the Z-Wave pavilion at CES. A full walk-through home will demonstrate different brands working together to create one cohesive smart home experience. Sigma Designs unveils its 700-Series Z-Wave platform, including numerous performance and technology enhancements in energy-efficiency and RF performance. Personal protection in attendance Self-defence product company SABRE will debut a combination pepper spray with dual sound-effect personal alarm that “alternates between the traditional wailing sound and a primal scream, while a strobe blinks 19 times per second to disorient assailants.” SABRE’s Modern Fake Security Camera includes “sleek, realistic design to deter would-be thieves.” Chip maker Ambarella is introducing the CV1 4K Stereovision Processor with CFflow Computer Vision Architecture. The chip combines environmental perception with advances in deep neural network processing for a variety of applications, including video security cameras and fully autonomous drones. At CES, applications will focus on automotive uses, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), self-driving, electronic mirror and surround view systems. The highly programmable and high-performance platform will no doubt play a role in the future of video surveillance systems in our market. A full walk-through home will demonstrate different brands working together to create one cohesive smart home experience Extending home security and efficiency  The Ring whole-house security ecosystem creates a “Ring of Security” around homes and neighbourhoods. Products include “Stick Up” indoor/outdoor security cameras, integrated LED lighting, a “Ring Alarm” integrated bundle for $199 including a base station, keypad, contact sensor, and Z-Wave extender. “Ring Protect Plans” include 24/7 professional monitoring. The “Streety” phone app, from Vivint Smart Home, extends home security into the neighbourhood. Streety makes it easy for neighbours to monitor neighbourhood activity through a network of shared residential cameras. They can keep an eye on kids, cars and property through live video feeds and use recorded video clips to investigate incidents. A new device making its debut at CES is the Walker “commercialised biped robot,” from UBTECH Robotics, which provides a complete home butler service and is designed to ease the day-to-day operations of a busy home or office. The varied of functions includes video surveillance monitoring, security patrol monitoring, motion detection and “instant alarm,” as well as dancing and playing games with children. The company says Walker will “bridge the gap between technologies that were once only available in scientific research institutions and everyday people.”

Sony 4K security cameras act as ‘intelligent eyes’ at EDGE Olympic, one of Amsterdam’s most technologically advanced sustainable buildings. The rugged minidome cameras give a clear picture of the flow of workers and visitors into and around the premises. In addition, their excellent low-light sensitivity is an asset for the reinforcement of security at entrances and car parking areas. Playing a key role in EDGE Olympic’s intelligent design are thirteen Sony SNC VM772R 4K minidome cameras EDGE Olympic is an exciting landmark in sustainability. Opened in May 2018, the building constructed by EDGE offers over 11,000m2 of innovative co-working space close to Amsterdam’s Olympic Stadium. Providing a creative and energy-efficient workspace for commercial tenants, the building’s design is focused on a sophisticated digital infrastructure that connects people, devices, sensors and information via a secure cloud platform. Sony SNC VM772R 4K Minidome Cameras Playing a key role in EDGE Olympic’s intelligent design are thirteen Sony SNC VM772R 4K minidome cameras installed by Netherlands security specialist, Lancker Wolters. The cameras are integrated with Genetec’s video management system to create a comprehensive video security and monitoring solution. Ruggedly built for all-weather outdoor operation around the clock, the SNC VM772R camera features a large, highly sensitive 1.0-type back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor. Offering four times higher resolution than Full HD, the camera is capable of capturing smooth, crisply detailed 4K video in conditions of near darkness. This allows people and objects to be seen clearly in a wide range of lighting conditions – and thus helps to ensure round-the-clock safety and security of employees, co-workers and visitors to the building. Video Data In Building Operations Optimization In the future, it is expected that video data will also be used to optimise building operations In the future, it is expected that video data will also be used to optimize building operations. For example, intelligent analysis of traffic patterns could enable more efficient room bookings and use of resources such as heating, lighting and cleaning services. Further, SNC-VM772R cameras monitor the EDGE Olympic car park, scanning the registration license plates of vehicles and checking the number against a database to admit authorized staff and visitors only, while automatically raising the barrier to let vehicles exit. This also allows instant confirmation whether a particular employee is present in the building: this overview can be beneficial, for example, in the event of an emergency evacuation. Sony 4K Surveillance Cameras "The initial price of a particular camera doesn’t matter" comments Erik Ubels, CTO, EDGE Technologies. "It’s the usability over its lifetime that makes it a better investment. That's why we chose Sony 4K cameras for this landmark building and other properties that we’re planning in the near future."

A 300-plus camera city center video surveillance scheme in Lincoln has been installed and commissioned using cameras, monitors and switching equipment from Dahua Technology. The previous analog-based CCTV system was more than 20 years old and had become expensive to maintain, so City of Lincoln Council decided to replace the analog cameras and transmission equipment with HD digital equipment. The total cost of ownership has been reduced by the savings made on legacy fiber lease costs, as well as reduced energy consumption and the ability to configure and maintain the cameras remotely. Installation Of IP Full HD System The installation of the new IP full HD system and network is part of Lincoln’s smart city strategy – Vision 2020The design of the new all-wireless encrypted system was based around delivering flexible technology, reducing the total cost of ownership, ease of installation, lower maintenance requirements, smart edge analytics and remote connectivity. Environmentally friendly aspects of the project included specifying lower-energy equipment, integrating remote support and recycling hardware wherever possible. The council employed independent consultants Lever Technology Group to help them ensure they had a robust and future-proof radio network design. The installation of the new IP full HD system and network is part of Lincoln’s smart city strategy – Vision 2020 – which seeks to drive innovation in the city and harness new technologies to improve the lives of citizens. One of the results is the provision of free Wi-Fi in the city, working alongside the Dahua cameras using the same IP wireless network. Bandwidth Efficiency Using H.265 Compression A combination of fixed and PTZ cameras were installed over a new 1GB duplex network. These include cameras from the Dahua Pro series, which features high image quality, bandwidth efficiency using H.265 compression and excellent low-light performance. Bullet cameras from the Ultra series – with powerful optical zoom, IR distances of up to 50 metres and software which supports people-counting and heat-mapping – were also installed. The design of the scheme incorporated both camera and server-side analytics with legacy motion and audio detection The bandwidth efficiency of the cameras meant that multiple cameras could be installed in any given position, providing 360° coverage of locations and up to 20 Megapixels of video capacity per location – compared with less than 400,000 pixels with the previous analog cameras. The design of the scheme incorporated both camera and server-side analytics, including video content analytics, facial recognition, ANPR, heat maps and pedestrian counting, as well as legacy motion and audio detection. The objective of the facial recognition aspect is to support operators in areas such as the search for missing and vulnerable individuals. PoE Switches For Providing Power The superior image quality of the new system is borne out in figures which show an increase in ‘actionable’ images from 5% with the previous system to 60% successful reviews with the new one. Dahua PoE switches were also installed to provide power to the cameras, which are then connected to a layer-2 network. A new video wall comprising ten Dahua DHL49-4K LED backlit 49-inch 4K Ultra HD video wall display units featuring industrial level wide-viewing LCD panels, was fitted into a newly refurbished control room in City Hall and connected to i-Comply wonderwall video display drivers. This is a great collaboration of key project partners that have a tried-and-tested pedigree and working relationship with Videcom Security"Supplied through authorized distributor Mayflex, the entire system was installed by public space CCTV specialists Videcom Security, which worked with other partners to provide a high-performance, efficient and feature-rich system. Cost-Effective And Reliable Equipment Bill Mead, Managing Director at Videcom Security, said that working largely with Dahua video equipment meant it was easier for engineers in terms of configuration, as well as being cost-effective and representing good value for money. “Working with the Dahua product range has been great. The products have proved to be reliable and we experienced very few problems, from the initial configuration through to installation and commissioning. “This is a great collaboration of key project partners that have a tried-and-tested pedigree and working relationship with Videcom Security. We broke new ground with the development of 4K H.265 decoding, the support through Luxriot for camera-side analytics and edge recording, and the development by Dahua of camera-to-camera communication, allowing for non-connected systems to communicate locally.” Infinet 5GHz And Siklu E And V Band Radios Videcom Security is a certified Dahua Integration Partner, training for which was delivered both by Dahua and the Mayflex AcademyDahua is a solution provider in the global video surveillance industry and associated technology and has a keen focus on innovation by investing heavily in research and development. For the Lincoln city scheme, its products were selected based on their performance and cost-effectiveness to meet project budgets. Videcom Security is a certified Dahua Integration Partner, training for which was delivered both by Dahua and the Mayflex Academy. This helped Videcom negotiate key firmware enhancements, which added to many of the analytical features available in each of the cameras. The wireless network is built with Infinet 5GHz and Siklu E and V band radios. Resilience and diverse routing has been built into the network design, which supports video surveillance as well as public Wi-Fi and capacity for smart city services. Luxriot have worked closely with Dahua, supplying their Evo Global video management system and supporting edge analytics integration through their ‘events and actions’ management, which has also been integrated through to i-Comply’s VTAS CRVMS software (now rebranded as Viewscape). Real-Time Control And Video Streaming The Dahua system implemented by Videcom Security provides the main elements of our tier-1 solution"The introduction of H.265 compression was ground-breaking for such a project, with the system capable of displaying 4MP and 6MP H.265 to the operator’s spot monitor with real-time control and video streaming. “The Dahua system implemented by Videcom Security provides the main elements of our tier-1 solution,” said Martin Byrne, CCTV Team leader at Lincoln City Council. “The police are extremely pleased with the system and we’ve had very positive feedback from them. “There is really no comparison from how we operated previously to how we can now. It revolutionizes how we manage the CCTV systems and data. The potential for what we can achieve going forward is remarkable. We have now started to get real results from the investment in analytics; in particular vehicle and people-counting has been deployed and data is used to enhance other city projects.” Martin added: “Dahua has taken time out to visit and discuss with us our ambitions for smart city services. We have adopted Dahua as our brand of choice for CCTV cameras and have so far been very pleased and impressed with their reliability, low-light performance and overall image quality.”

Police in the Belgian city of Lokeren can now respond more effectively to criminal incidents – thanks to an upgraded video surveillance solution that features 120 Sony security cameras, including the rugged SNC-VM772R 4K minidome camera. Lokeren Video Security System Like all urban centers, Lokeren faces the challenges of crime, vandalism and antisocial behavior in its streets, public buildings and open areas. Until recently, the municipal police force relied on analog security cameras to assist with detecting and responding promptly to incidents. However, these cameras’ limited resolution and image quality often prevented efforts to prosecute individuals as they could not be successfully identified. In response to requests from citizens to maximize their safety, Lokeren police chiefs and city politicians pledged to upgrade their video surveillance capabilities. In particular, the urgent need was identified to improve the accurate recognition of suspects caught on camera – an even greater challenge at night or on dull, poorly-lit days. Full HD And 4K Network Surveillance Cameras  Security specialists DS-Consulting therefore recommended upgrading Lokeren’s video security to a combination of Full HD and 4K network surveillance cameras. A competitive comparison by DS-Consulting saw Sony’s outdoor minidome and fixed box-type cameras compare favorably with other brands. The rugged SNC-VM772R 4K minidome camera delivered significantly better images in tough low-light conditions “There was only one choice when we compared the image quality of Sony’s security cameras against other market-leading brands” states Emiel De Smet of security specialist DS-Consulting. “They offer so much more detail and clarity – and that makes all the difference in critical surveillance applications.” SNC-VM772R 4K Minidome Camera In particular, the rugged SNC-VM772R 4K minidome camera delivered significantly better images in tough low-light conditions. The camera’s large-sized Exmor R CMOS image sensor allows it to capture more light than ordinary sensors. This allows it to ‘see’ suspicious activity clearly in conditions of almost complete darkness, where less sensitive cameras struggle. Installed by Belgian integrator Seris Technology, the complete surveillance solution features a video management platform by Genetec Security Center plus 120 strategically located Sony cameras, providing 24/7 coverage of city center streets as well as public buildings, including Lokeren’s police station, central library and city hall. Crime Prevention And 24/7 Video Monitoring The new cameras give police a clearer picture of criminal activity in the city streets, assisting with the positive identification of suspicious persons even at night and in low light conditions. Round-the-clock video footage is routed via an optical fiber network, where images are monitored in the central dispatch office at police headquarters. Since the cameras’ installation, city police have seen a reduction in crime levels, accompanied by greater peace of mind for residents and visitors.

Immersive Display Solutions, Inc. (IDSI) announced that it has selected the Barco F70 for its advanced dome display project. Using thirteen F70-4K6 projectors per dome and featuring the powerful Barco Pulse electronics processing platform and unique Single Step Processing (SSP) pixel-shifting technology, the integrated solution from IDSI will support high-performance fast jet pilot training. This selection continues the successful relationship which has been built between IDSI and Barco over many years and has produced some of the highest quality display systems in the industry. Barco F70-4K6 Display Projector The F70-4K6 is a high performance, robust laser-phosphor projector with sealed optics and minimal number of moving components inside. This construction enables rugged performance that ensures stability and predictability over the 60,000-hour lifetime of the product. 4K resolution is achieved using the high bandwidth Barco Pulse electronics platform and the proprietary SSP technology. All this leads to the delivery of exceptionally sharp and detailed dynamic imagery allowing trainees to detect moving objects at long distances and totally immersing them into the perfect simulation experience. The team at IDSI is well-respected throughout the industry for their precision, quality, and low-risk approach to program requirements “Our relationship with Barco is built on performance, support, and trust,” says George Forbes, President and founder of IDSI. “When we decide on which projector to use for a project, we consider much more than the technical performance- which has to be there. We know we can rely on Barco, and that the entire Barco Simulation team from top-down is behind us, and that is a big factor in who we choose to partner with.” IDSI-Barco Partnership “The team at IDSI is well-respected throughout the industry for their precision, quality, and low-risk approach to program requirements,” says Dave Fluegeman, VP, Simulation at Barco. “Our teams have always integrated very well, and when there is a seamless approach and singular focus to a project, the likelihood of success is always very high.” Recently IDSI won the ‘Small Business of the Year’ award after careful selection by the MS&T judging panel and votes by the simulation and training industry. The honor was awarded for their way of leveraging human capital, innovation and agility to grow and meet client needs, all while cultivating and growing technical and social influence in the community. The Barco F70-4K6 in turn received an honorable mention as an Outstanding Innovative Product that has positively impacted the client’s ‘way of doing business.’

Nestled on the banks of the river Thames, Kew Gardens in southwest London is home to the most diverse collection of living plants anywhere in the world. At 330 acres in size, it’s London’s largest UNESCO world heritage site, and has a history stretching back more than 250 years. The Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, attracts more than 1.6 million visitors every year, coming to see the 30,000 different kinds of plants, and to visit the Herbarium, which has over seven million preserved plant specimens. As an internationally important botanical research and educational institution, Kew’s library contains more than three quarters of a million books, along with more than 175,000 prints and drawings of plant life. 24/7 Video Surveillance Coverage A need was identified to upgrade the existing legacy analog CCTV system to one capable of transmitting and recording in true HD Kew Gardens hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts and art exhibitions, as well as learning experiences for all ages and interests, in addition to the garden attractions. The site is accessible via London Underground, Overground, buses and river services in summer, and the public can enter via four separate gates: the Elizabeth Gate, the Brentford Gate, Victoria Gate and the Lion Gate. There are also a number of other access gates to the gardens which are not open to the public. Because of the sheer volume of visitors and the multitude of public and trade entrances to Kew Gardens, the site requires around the clock video surveillance coverage, seven days a week. Analog To IP CCTV System Kew’s CCTV control room operations team works to monitor the safety and security of the park, but a need was identified to upgrade the existing legacy analog CCTV system to one capable of transmitting and recording in true High Definition. Security specialist firm The ITS Group was called in to help. The ITS Group is comprised of ITS Fire and Security, ITS Electrical, ITS Fire Training and ITS Building Services. The company has 20 years of experience within the fire and security industry, and provides CCTV, intruder alarms, barrier gates, security lighting, panic alarms, access control, and door and video entry, alongside a swathe of other services. The results were achieved in the process of implementing a Hikvision IP HD video surveillance system ITS Group Director Tim Dyer said the Kew project required upgrading equipment in the Gardens’ security control room and providing site-wide cameras which can be used to view all entrances for both public and trade, as well as various strategic locations throughout the Gardens. Challenges In Installing Surveillance System The massive 330-acre site is a huge area to monitor in itself, and Tim Dyer says the very public nature of the Gardens and its operations meant the actual video system installation posed some security continuity challenges. “Because the control room needed to be in operation 24/7, close co-ordination was required between ITS and the security team on-site,” he says. “We needed to maintain the CCTV in line with the changing site requirements on a daily basis. This, coupled with access issues and working in a public environment, was very challenging, and the fact that we were able to achieve such good results is testament to the close co-ordination between the site team and Kew security.” Those results were achieved in the process of implementing a Hikvision IP High Definition video surveillance system, which included new 43-inch and 22-inch HD monitors for the control room, along with new touchscreen network keyboards and joysticks. HD Images In Low Light When there’s no light at all, the Darkfighter cameras switch to IR mode and record black and white images at 0 LuxControl room operators monitor images from a number of different Hikvision cameras. These include an initial 48 DarkfighterX network speed domes, which provide color HD images in light levels as low as 0.001 Lux. That’s pretty dark. And when it gets darker still, they provide black and white images in light levels down to 0.0001 Lux. When there’s no light at all, the Darkfighter cameras switch to IR mode and record black and white images at 0 Lux. In addition, they offer 25x zoom capabilities and Deep Learning-powered target classification for automatic tracking and perimeter protection. They’re complemented by 29 Darkfighter 2 megapixel motorized varifocal lens cameras, 21 ultra-low light smart bullet cameras, and six low light smart cameras. Images are recorded to Hikvision 16-channel Turbo HD digital video recorders which support analog, HD-TVI, and IP cameras, H.264, H.264+ and dual-stream compression, and can output at up to 4K resolution. Improved Picture Quality The Gardens now have a full HD system which can be expanded with additional cameras in the future"The resulting system is not only powerful and effective in the short-term but is purposefully planned to incorporate forthcoming changes. “The Gardens now have a full HD system which can be expanded with additional cameras in the future,” Tim Dyer says. “It allows them to take advantage of technology advances and newly developed functionality on any cameras or devices they add to the system in future.” Tim Dyer says the Hikvision system has revolutionised Kew’s video picture quality and functionality. “Making the change from an old analog system to installing a new Hikvision IP system has transformed the Gardens’ picture quality, both during the day and at night,” he says. “The zoom facility is amazing and precise, and the reliability of them is second to none, making the work of the control room operatives a much easier role.” The HD surveillance system has been received exceptionally well by those whose opinion matters most: the security team at Kew Gardens. John Deer, Head of Security, said: “I am delighted with the installation of Hikvision cameras at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. They are of the highest quality, which has enhanced the overall security across the 330-acre site.”

New security and surveillance upgrades have been announced at Manchester Arena, with the first phase expected to be complete by mid-autumn. The system upgrade includes the installation of next generation camera technology combined with cutting-edge access control and is set to be rolled out ahead of a number of high-profile events that are being staged at the arena this autumn. Following the installation of the latest state-of-the-art security cameras, developments include super high definition 4K resolution images and enhanced video analytics with appearance search, plus self-learning analytics with presence/absence detection and the ability to detect unusual motion events. Similar Effective Solutions Reflex systems was chosen by SMG Europe having looked at similar effective solutions designed and installed by them at the award-winning Leeds The new facilities will also see an improvement in data management and delivery, and form part of an expanding security network which enables remote monitoring off-site at venues across the UK. The large-scale upgrade will be implemented by South Yorkshire-based firm Reflex Systems, a security system installer whose previous projects include providing deployable security systems for the G8 Summit, as well as work at off-park venues at the Olympics, Wimbledon, and Wembley Stadium. Reflex Systems will be leading on the Manchester Arena upgrades. The specialist firm was chosen by SMG Europe having looked at similar effective solutions designed and installed by them at the award-winning Leeds first direct Arena and other large capacity public venues. Intelligent Video Stream Lee Sinnott, senior facilities manager at SMG Europe, said: “The scope of the project was to deliver a powerful scalable end-to-end surveillance solution over an IP network, employing the latest HD/4K cameras, video analytics at the edge and through an intelligent video stream data management system.” Results allow us to actively monitor & effectively manage large crowds in differing light conditions both in real time and forensically “The challenge to find the right surveillance system with state-of-the-art technology that operates in a harsh light environment was realised through a detailed study and product testing with temporary camera deployments during Arena events. The results allow us to actively monitor & effectively manage large crowds in differing light conditions both in real time and forensically, post event. Providing video evidence of the highest quality was an important deliverable on the project.” Public Venue Applications “The planned installation of an expanded access control solution with system integration into the CCTV was a key part of the project. The electronic access control system will now provide us with the capability to respond to national threat levels and dynamically deploy a range of security measures through a powerful user interface.” John Pye, managing director of Reflex Systems, said: “Some of the technology involved in the upgrades at Manchester Arena is very new in terms of its features, and is a convergence of security with IT and advanced management software.” “We have significant experience in the area of public venue applications, and through our expertise and technology partners we deliver solutions which allow venue owners, whatever scale, to provide safer and more secure environments for everyone.”

Industry standards make it possible for systems and technologies to connect and work together. Standards enable today’s integrated systems. But does adherence to standards stifle innovation? Does the necessity to interface using an industry-wide standard slow down the implementation of newer (and possibly not standards-compliant) capabilities? Or do standards eliminate extraneous variables, empower more integration and encourage greater innovation? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How does the use of standards either stifle or jump-start innovation?

They call it “critical” for a reason. The so-called “critical infrastructure” is composed of the basic services that citizens have come to depend on, and which are necessary to support society and ensure national stability. The term includes high-visibility segments such as airports, refineries, transportation, wastewater, nuclear reactors, electric utilities, pipelines, and more. Because these functions are so critical, the stakes of providing security are higher than for any other market. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of critical infrastructure facilities?

Products are the building blocks of systems and solutions. How those products are combined, and where the integration happens, is a variable in the physical security market. Before the advent of open systems, a single manufacturer typically combined his own products, using proprietary connections, into end-to-end solutions for customers. Open systems undermined that paradigm to some degree and made it possible for customers to pick and choose products from multiple manufacturers to be integrated into a solution. Lately, the pendulum has again swung toward “system solutions,” or end-to-end systems provided by a single manufacturer … Or has it? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is the industry shifting from a focus on products to emphasizing end-to-end solutions? How is that a good (or bad) thing?