CCTV surveillance

Dahua Technology, global video surveillance solutions provider, is celebrating its fifth year of local operation in the North American market. Established in Irvine in 2014, the North America office has grown from one employee — President and CEO of Dahua Technology USA, Tim Wang — to more than 100 employees in the span of five years. Today, the Dahua Technology USA team includes sales representatives and technical consultants spread throughout every region of the United States and Canada. The company attributes its success, in part, to its commitment to empowering its customers. As such, “Empowering through Technology” is Dahua Technology’s theme at this year’s ISC West show, April 10-12, in Las Vegas. “Dahua Technology empowers our dealers and integrators to stay at the top of their field by providing the latest security solutions to their end-users,” Tim Shen, Director of Marketing at Dahua Technology USA, explained. “In addition, the resources we make available to our dealers ensure that they are up-to-speed on their knowledge of our technology and fully trained on the products.” Learn Dahua Online Training Platform  These resources include Learn Dahua, an online platform available to Dahua Technology USA’s registered dealer partners, which offers video tutorials and courses on Dahua technology. Dealer partners also benefit from monthly webinars. The DahuaWiki is an extensive public resource that includes side-by-side product comparisons, manuals, how-tos, live camera demos, software, and firmware. It has received seven million hits since its launch, and currently averages approximately 16,000 hits a day. Dahua Technology was the first company to introduce penta-brid technology in its digital video recorders Dahua Technology’s advanced technology is the fruit of more than 50% of the research and development engineers at company headquarters. Dahua Technology is known for its proprietary video compression codec, Smart H.265+, as well as its cutting-edge Starlight technology. Multi-Flex Panoramic Cameras Dahua Technology was the first company to introduce penta-brid technology in its digital video recorders, allowing the five most common transmission formats to integrate into one system. The latest offerings include the new Multi-Flex panoramic camera, Night Color technology for detailed, full-color images in near-complete darkness, and Extended Power over Ethernet (ePoE) technology, which is compatible with both coaxial and IP cabling. All of these products and more will be on display at booth 14039 at ISC West. “Dahua Technology’s forward-thinking approach keeps us at the leading edge of video surveillance technology, which in turn allows our dealers to sell and install our products with confidence,” said Wayne Hurd, VP of Sales at Dahua Technology USA. “Our technology is constantly evolving to meet current and future needs, giving dealers and end-users peace of mind that they’ve selected the most advanced security solution on the market.”

Booth number: 14039 Dahua Technology USA Inc. will display video surveillance solutions, access control and intercoms at ISC West. Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience. The first year that we exhibited at ISC West was in 2012. That was before we had a local US operation. The market started to pick up our brand and was surprised that we offer extensive product portfolios. In 2014, we registered our US office and continued to participate in ISC West. Through our presence at the show, customers get to know us better and understand that we are not just a product manufacturer but can also support them from the service and operation standpoints. We are local here and help our customers to grow their business and increase their satisfaction with us. A trade show is not just for marketing; ensuring the best ROI requires work by several parties in an organization Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? A trade show is definitely a lot of investment within a few days. Therefore, how we create the best ROI and meet the right customers are very important. A trade show is not just for marketing; ensuring the best ROI requires work by several parties in an organization, including products and technical expertise as well as the sales team. We use an internal and highly coordinated plan with the team to get a better result. We make sure everyone is on the same page in terms of the products/technology we are going to present and have the people with the best knowledge to present to customers who visit our booth. Therefore, a highly coordinated team strategy is required. Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? Every company has their ways to follow up with the leads and evaluate the ROI from the show. The way we are using is to upload all our leads to our software and track all these leads afterwards. If they are not already buying from us, our goal is to convert them to become a registered dealer. Customers get to know us better and understand that we are not just a product manufacturer but can also support them from the service and operation standpoints If they are already our registered dealers, we seek to grow their business by using our latest technology solutions. In general, all marketing activities in business today require a clear ROI, and it has to tie into the sales numbers. From our experience, the ISC West show provides the best ROI among other shows in the North American market. Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organize each year? We have a partner event and invite our value-added dealers and partners. We’ve been hosting this event since 2015. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? As I mentioned, ISC West provides the highest ROI among other shows in the North America market. This show also brings many of our customers and partners to the city as well. I guess people value this opportunity to meet and discuss the technology, the industry trends, and the business to figure out how we can grow together. Other trade shows might be smaller than ISC West and targeted at different markets or address different scopes of the industry need. Every show we attend in 2019 plays a strategic role for us to communicate with the market and find the customers we are looking for.

Booth number: 12089 At this year's ISC West, VIVOTEK USA, Inc. will be showcasing their 180⁰/360⁰ product line plus other general form factors with new features and benefits, including a cybersecurity application embedded onto the cameras, crowd detection, smart motion detection, tailgating, and many more. In addition to IP cameras, VIVOTEK will display a comprehensive product line that also includes NVRs, video receivers, video servers, PoE switches, and video management software. Q: What Was The First Year Your Company Exhibited At ISC West? Please Share Your Remembrances Of That Experience. We have come a long way from a little-known surveillance manufacturer with a small booth size VIVOTEK has been an exhibitor at ISC West for many years now. Looking back, we have come a long way from a little-known surveillance manufacturer with a small booth size to one of the global providers in the security industry with a recognizable and trusted brand. Now, we are well-known in the industry and are proud of our accomplishments, but we feel greater things are still in front of us. Q: What Strategies Do You Use To Get The Most Out Of Exhibiting At ISC West? Each year, we want our booth to tell our stories – who we are, what we do and what we are capable of, and where we are heading. We do not want to just be another camera manufacturer who only promotes and displays products; we want to be the solution provider that customers are looking for. In addition, we have very knowledgeable sale managers who can assist visitors at our booth who are looking for surveillance, whether it’s an upgrade or a totally new solution. Q: How Do You Quantify Your Success At ISC West? What ROI Do You Receive From The Show? Gain industry knowledge and perspective as to where surveillance security industry is heading Like any trade show, it is difficult to quantify success. We attend ISC West to promote the VIVOTEK brand, meet and discuss with customers and gain industry knowledge and perspective as to where surveillance security industry is heading. If we achieve these, then ISC West is a success for us. Q: What Company Activities (Outside The Show Floor) Does Your Company Organize Each Year? Our main focus each year at ISC West has always been the interaction with customers and potential customers on the show floor. We pride ourselves in the products and technology we offer, and there aren’t any other trade shows in North America to showcase our capabilities than ISC West. Q: What Sets ISC West Apart From Other Trade Shows On The Calendar? ISC West is the industry standard of security trade shows in North America. Since we are a security surveillance manufacturer, ISC West is the one show that all manufacturers in this industry must attend.

IONODES, a market innovator in dedicated IP video appliances, announced that it has joined the Genetec Technology Partner Program as a Silver Partner. Genetec is a global provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions. IONODES’ Secure Display Stations, which offer a secure and reliable video wall and spot monitor solution, is now fully integrated with Genetec Security Center. The integration is available as of Security Center 5.7 Service Release 5 and the related products are now listed in the list of supported devices from Genetec. Live Video Monitoring  Secure Display Stations have been designed to use live video monitoring to promote more secure environments. They can display live video on a variety of digital monitors without the cost, complexity and security risk of a client workstation. This is ideal in public areas and in remote sites or facilities with few or no trained security staff. The ION-R100S and ION-R200 Secure Display Stations can display up to 32 IP video streams, on one or two HD monitors, and can be managed directly through the Genetec Security Desk client application. IONODES is very committed to using video to increase safety through awareness, by making live video available to more people" “We’re excited about this integration with IONODES because it makes valuable visual information available, further extending the value of the Genetec Security Center platform and offering greater situational awareness to our joint users”, said Alexandra Scarlat, Commercial Manager, Device Integration at Genetec. Enhanced Cybersecurity Secure Display Stations limit cyber security threats and cannot be tampered with by general staff or the public. This ensures that video is delivered reliably, securely and efficiently, around the clock. “IONODES is very committed to using video to increase safety through awareness, by making live video available to more people. This integration with Genetec will allow customers using Genetec Security Center another means to dynamically share live video throughout their organizations to enhance safety and improve business processes.” said Steve Green, Director of Sales and Business Development at IONODES.

Hikvision, a supplier of innovative security products and solutions, has introduced new AcuSense network camera series to its EasyIP 4.0 security solutions. Featuring a strobe light and an audio alarm, the new cameras can immediately deter intruders from entering a prohibited site, further enhancing the safety of premises and property. Faster And Accurate Intrusion Detection Hikvision AcuSense network cameras build on the same cutting-edge intrusion detection functionality found within the existing Hikvision EasyIP 4.0 security solutions. When a potential threat is detected by the camera, it uses its intelligent false alarm reduction technology to disregard irrelevant movements, such as rain, leaves and animals. Instead, the camera focuses on human or vehicle movement, reducing the number of false alarms for faster, more accurate intrusion detection. With Built-In Strobe Light Once a potential intruder has been accurately detected, the AcuSense network camera triggers the built-in strobe light and audio alarm. This is designed to warn the intruder off before they attempt to breach the perimeter. The volume of the audio alarm and the brightness of the strobe light can be adjusted to suit the environment. The AcuSense network camera range can deliver this powerful intrusion detection and prevention at all times of day or night. Powered by Hikvision DarkFighter technology, all cameras in the range deliver superior surveillance images, even in ultra-low light. Products To Suit Different Applications AcuSense network cameras are available in bullet and turret styles, in 2MP or 4MP resolution The new AcuSense network cameras are available in bullet and turret styles, and in 2MP or 4MP resolution, making a total of four different camera options available. Frank Zhang, General Manager of International Product Marketing Department at Hikvision says, “AcuSense technology is already cutting-edge. By adding the strobe light and the alarm, we can now give our customers the chance to prevent incidents from happening in the first place, for even better security. We’re delighted to be able to help our customers protect their property in ever more valuable ways.” Four Product Model Details DS-2CD2346G1-I/SL: 4 MP IR Fixed Turret Network Camera DS-2CD2326G1-I/SL: 2 MP IR Fixed Turret Network Camera DS-2CD2T46G1-4I/SL: 4 MP IR Fixed Bullet Network Camera DS-2CD2T26G1-4I/SL: 2 MP IR Fixed Bullet Network Camera

Electric Productions presents ‘Trending Today’, a television series airing Saturday, February 23 on Fox Business at 12:00 PM EST featuring Business Leaders and Lifestyle Innovators. This episode of Trending Today features Swann Communications, the pioneer of DIY security systems. Swann is a global leader in security monitoring, consumer electronics and security-centric solutions for the smart homes and businesses of today and tomorrow. Surveillance And Monitoring Technology  With a presence in over 40 counties and on six continents, Swann remains at the forefront of innovative surveillance and monitoring technology with new product developments including truly wire-free HD cameras and doorbells, state-of-the-art professional-quality CCTV video surveillance recording systems and cameras, including the latest 4K ultra HD, five and three megapixel super HD, and 1080p full HD systems with True Detect heat and motion-sensing technology. The Swann product range is designed to make the latest security solutions accessible, affordable and easy to use. At Swann, our focus is on using cutting edge technology for preventative security" In this informative Trending Today segment, viewers learn about the challenges facing the industry and how Swann is providing solutions. The company's vision is to be the world leader in smart security solutions, taking care of people and making every home and business a safe place. Home and business needs, and technology, continue to evolve but Swann's commitment is to always deliver security made smarter. Preventative Security Technology "We are proud of participating in this series and hope it raises awareness of not only our product offerings, but also the role that your security company can play in providing peace of mind that your home and family are safe," said Jeremy Stewart, Vice President of Global Marketing at Swann Communications. "At Swann, our focus is on using cutting edge technology for preventative security." Michael Stankoski, Production Manager for ‘Trending Today’ said, "Working with Swann Communications has been such a cool experience. They are making a difference in their communities and offering much-needed security solutions. It was so interesting to learn about all of their truly revolutionary products."

For those of you old enough to remember, video matrix switchers were once the heyday of surveillance camera control. These cumbersome antiques were at the heart of every major video surveillance system (video surveillance at the time) in premier gaming properties, government installations and corporate industrial complexes. They required more physical labor to construct and configure than perhaps the pyramids – maybe not – but you get the picture. And then digital video made its way in to the market and everything changed, transforming the physical demands for camera control and management from a hardware-centric to a software driven process. We’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely There’s no doubt that this migration also presented significant challenges as many security professionals often struggled with all things IT and software programming being one of the industry’s soft spots. Fortunately, we’ve come a long way in a few short years, and the borders that once defined IT and security continue to diminish, if not disappear completely. However, the complexities of today’s VMS functionality can be intimidating for anyone tasked with installing one of these systems given all of the user-defined options available from the simplest camera sequencing and bandwidth allocations to mobile management and enterprise level integration. This is where truly advanced VMS solutions need to shine on both the operations and the design/build sides of the equation. Smart VMS Design There are more solutions products labelled “VMS solutions” out there than ever before. The issue is the fact that many of these “solutions” really don’t fall into the category of a true VMS by today’s standards but offer basic camera and NVR control. No doubt that there is a place for such software programs in the market. However, VMS solutions from the likes of OnSSI and other industry-leading companies offer distinct and superior management and control capabilities for demanding security and business intelligence applications. Perhaps of equal importance, these top-tier VMS solutions incorporate provisions for installers, so they have a clear and easier implementation path. OnSSI offers VMS solutions with smart camera drivers Here are seven attributes that can assist with the design and implementation of an advanced VMS solution: 1) Open Architecture Platform We need the ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth  The ability to easily integrate with other systems and scale for future developments and physical system growth is largely dependent on a systems platform architecture. Here’s where VMS solutions with open architecture provide a distinct advantage. Open-architecture solutions expand functionality by facilitating greater integration between multiple systems and components. This not only makes VMS solutions with open architecture easier to implement, it makes them extremely cost-efficient by eliminating the need for proprietary solutions. Open architecture systems also provide adherence to industry standards such as ONVIF and PSIA, as well as compression formats such as H.265 and MJPEG, and help ensure system integration and support of an extensive range of manufacturers’ cameras and off-the-shelf hardware. Be wary of VMS solutions with limited camera manufacturer support. 2) Simple Licensing Processes And Pricing Camera licenses and pricing is always a touchy subject, as any misunderstanding of a specific VMS solutions’ licensing terms can prove to be costly after the fact. And it often seems that some VMS suppliers have gone to great lengths to complicate the process as to obscure actual Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). Perhaps the most direct, simple and straightforward camera licensing and pricing method is to have one license per IP address used by each camera/encoder on multi-channel devices. These should be perpetual licenses with no required annual fees or subscriptions. Additionally, the licensing agreement should be all inclusive without added fees for multiple clients, failover servers, active directory support, I/O devices, redundant management servers, technical support or security patches and updates. 3) Mixing And Matching Camera License Types The ability to mix and match different camera license types within the same system helps facilitate a seamless and simple migration of new and pre-existing systems with minimal downtime or interruption in operation. The ability to mix and match camera licenses not only saves valuable design and installation time, it can provide considerable savings when integrating large, multi-tenant systems. Mix and match capabilities also allow system designers to apply specific feature sets to specific groups of cameras to best leverage functionality and budgets, as well as providing the flexibility to implement an on-site, virtual, or cloud-based VMS solution, without any additional cost. 4) Auto Camera Detection And Configuration Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements Another VMS set-up feature that eases the install process is the ability to forego device registrations or MAC address requirements. This functionality allows installers to instantly locate cameras on the network and configure them centrally so they can easily replace older cameras while seamlessly retaining video recorded from them. The auto detection capability should also include the ability to detect and import CSV files, which can then be stored and used to configure camera templates for future camera installation profiles. 5) Smart Camera Driver Technology VMS solutions with smart camera drivers offer valuable assistance during system implementation, and any time new cameras are added to the network or replace older models. Manufacturer-specific smart camera drivers expand the range of model-specific static drivers. Instead of storing the device’s information (codecs, resolutions, frame rates, etc.) statically, a VMS with smart camera drivers queries devices for their capabilities using the manufacturers’ proprietary protocol. All that is required for configuration is that the camera is available on the network. Smart camera drivers eliminate the need to wait for model-specific drivers or installation of driver packs, allowing for newly released cameras to be used immediately. Network security is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers  6) Importance Of Network Security Network Security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today Network security is perhaps the greatest challenge faced by industry professionals today. This is an area where leading VMS suppliers like OnSSI have ramped up development efforts to stay ahead of hackers. New security developments to look for include TLS 1.2 encryption protocols for camera-to-server communications (SSL 3.0 supported for older cameras), as well as server-to-server communications. Additional safeguards to consider include: randomized video databases with no camera identification information to secure recorded data; support for Active Directory authentication; AES encryption between servers and clients; and AES encrypted exporting. 7) Automatic Updates Regardless of the supplier you select for your VMS solution, they should be consistently providing new updates and security patches on a frequent if not regular basis. Keeping up with these updates can be a burden and are often overlooked leading to system failures and breeches. Advanced VMS solutions now feature automatic update service checks on a system-wide basis, eliminating the need to manually update individual servers and devices. This ensures that your VMS system always has the latest drivers, fixes and updates which assures overall security while reducing TCO. So next time you’re getting a demo of the latest and greatest VMS solution, remember to ask what it offers in terms of design and implementation tools. Half the battle with new technologies is getting them installed and working properly. Without the right tools to accomplish these critical first steps, all the functionality in the world will do you little good.

In my coverage of China Tariffs impacting the security industry over four recent articles, products on the tariff schedules routinely integrated into security solutions included burglar and fire alarm control and transmission panels, video surveillance lenses, HDTV cameras used for broadcast use cases and fiber optic media converters. The general ‘callout’ of ADP (Automatic Data Processing) devices and peripherals technically includes servers, workstations and microcomputers, all of which are commonly used to support security solutions. The underperformance, from June 15 to August 24, of U.S. stocks with high revenue-exposure to China, and that of Chinese stocks with high revenue-exposure to the United States was significant and almost identical at 3.2%, significant losses to some investors already involved in security industry M&A activity. Significant Public Safety Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety While it was not apparent that practitioners’ security program budgets kept pace with the growth of the more popular solution providers like video surveillance and cyber security, the ICT industries supporting the security economy continued to expand, especially in wireless and wired infrastructure, including preparations for 5G wireless rollouts. These omnipresent technologies drove significant public safety, smart city and public venue projects in 2018. Facial Recognition (FR) vendors leveraging AI expanded their market focus to retail and public safety. In 2018, virtually every public presentation, webinar and published Q&A on social media monitoring and facial recognition technologies I worked on, involved significant pushback from privacy advocates, almost to the point of alarmism. Massive Risk Reduction Several solution providers in these areas have made significant strides on data protection, accuracy, powered by AI and documented crime reduction cases; however, this real news is quickly shadowed by privacy advocates, seemingly ignoring massive risk reduction, especially in the case of active assailants and gang-related crime. Will FR become mainstream? The cautious security industry may take a cue from the maverick retail industry, sports venue and VIP verification solution providers that grew in 2018. 2019 trends: presupposition or repudiation; winners and losers. Chinese tariffs have had a huge impact on the security industry, which can be seen from changes to U.S and Chinese stocks  Although technology adoption forecasting is inexact, there are definitive opportunities in the security industry born on necessity. With the widespread problem of false alarm transmission and inability for first responders to ‘be everywhere,’ developers of solutions that provide automated verification and alternative security incident detection are expected to become mainstream. Promising Detection Systems The use of AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones) with surveillance and thermal imaging will grow, mostly due to higher acceptance in other industries like autonomous vehicles, rail safety, terrain and post devastation mapping/rescue. However, legacy ‘listing’ or certification organizations will be forced to make an important decision for their own survival: work toward integrating these promising detection systems into acceptance by insurance, licensing and standards development organizations. 2019’s ‘true’ Industrial Philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants 2019’s ‘true’ industrial philanthropists will be needed to fund early warning tech for firefighters and the presence of active assailants. For these use cases, 5G infrastructure rollouts, FR acceptance, lower cost perimeter detection and long range object and fire recognition by LiDAR and Thermal imaging will all be watched closely by investors. Should public agencies and philanthropical solution providers in the security industry cross paths, we may just yet see a successful, lifesaving impact. Cyber Risk Profile The ‘Digital twin’ refers to a digital replica of physical assets (physical twin), processes, people, places, systems and devices that can be used for various purposes. Your ‘Security Digital Twin’ has a similar physical and cyber risk profile, either through common threats, similar assets or both. Good news: managing your risk, protecting assets and securing your facilities in 2019 will get easier as security digital twin profiles will grow in maturity, while keeping their data sources private. This will be accelerated by the maturity of AI-based, auto-generated visualizations and image recognition, that happens to also drive the FR solutions. The 5G wireless infrastructure market is emerging as far more of a quantum leap in connectivity, like ‘wireless fiber optics’ performance, than an upgrade to 4G LTE. The 5G infrastructure market will be worth $2.86 billion by 2020 and $33.72 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50.9%. Intelligent Applications The explosion of ingested voice, video, and meta-data, the interconnectivity of devices, people and places, and the integration of intelligent applications into expanding ecosystems all require faster communications. To be more accurate, 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity: 5G and FWA (Fixed Wireless Access). 5G rollouts will accelerate in 2019; however, current project funding will include and be impacted by future enterprise security connectivity Quite simply put, larger solution providers are gently coaxing practitioners into seemingly ‘open systems;’ the negative discovery during an M&A process, audit or integration with a smart city’s public/private partnerships will continue to be revealed, and related industries will force reform. Autonomous things will be enabled by AI and image recognition. With few affordable rollouts of security robots and outdoor unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) that leveraged platforms popular with research and even NASA, the autonomous security robot was mostly MIA from a security practitioner’s program in 2018. Perimeter Intrusion Detection One platform was even accused of intimidating homeless people in a public place, at a major city. Industries mutually beneficial are often unaware of each other; this will change gradually: one major domestic airport is currently evaluating a UGV platform performing perimeter intrusion detection, runway weather conditions and potential aircraft taxiing dangers. The platform is being used largely in transportation research, yet offers significant opportunities to the security industry. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR The ‘immersive experience’ of virtually any security or threat detection is a twist on virtual/augmented/mixed reality (VR/AR/MR) with additional sensory features. Although VR/AR/MR is well underway in other industries, there are several companies with solutions like VR-based active assailant training that could provide a fighting chance for practitioners, employees, visitors, faculty and children. Research firm Gartner estimates that 70% of today’s technology products and services can be enhanced with ‘multi-experience’-based VR/AR/MR. Security Ecosystem Members Not necessarily MIA, but of special mention is the need of security and safety practitioners to prioritize communications systems over ‘nice to have’ expansive video surveillance systems for mass casualty threats. This will eventually improve with 5G for Enterprise solution rollouts. At the past GSX and upcoming CES Technology trade shows, a new roundup of technologies is discovered: a wider diversity of protection promise to save ASIS members on their technical security program is realized. With each of the ‘winners,’ (5G, AI, NLP, LiDAR, UAS [Unmanned Aerial Vehicles aka drones], thermal imaging, digital security twins and smart-city-friendly technologies) it is both exciting and challenging work for both security practitioners and solution providers. All things equal and with the necessary technology acceptance testing processes, this is a truly great time for security ecosystem members.

The use of facial recognition has become a highly debated topic recently, and has increasingly and misleadingly been criticized by some for being an unethical tool used to spy on the public. The reason for such criticism is however largely due to lack of information and regulation around the technology. Used proportionately and responsibly, facial recognition can and should be a force for good. It has the ability to do a lot more to increase security in the future – from street crime to airport security, all the way through to helping those battling addiction, the technology can take security and operations to new heights. These systems can memorize the faces of persons of interest, networks of gang members, wanted criminals and those suspected of involvement in serious violent crimes The Rise In Knife Crime Knife crime has dominated the headlines in the UK throughout the year. Recent statistics show the number of people being admitted to emergency care due to attacks by a sharp object to be up by nearly 40 per cent from two years ago, while the number of children under the age of 18 being admitted to hospitals with stab wounds is up by 86 per cent in only four years. This recent surge in knife crime has put police forces under immense pressure, and the intelligent use of facial recognition has a role to play in enabling more informed stop & search interventions. Currently UK police can stop and search an individual they suspect to be carrying drugs or weapons or both, or they can stop and search a person in a location where there have been or are considered likely to be “incidents involving serious violence.” In both cases they must do so with access to limited information, leaving themselves open to accusations of bias or discrimination. Knife crime dominated the headlines in the UK throughout 2018 Police Systems Benefiting Crime Investigations This is where facial recognition can offer up additional intelligence. These systems can memorize the faces of persons of interest, networks of gang members, wanted criminals and those suspected of involvement in serious violent crimes. Furthermore, these systems don’t need prior personal engagement to recognize an individual and see only data, not gender, age or race. Facial recognition thus helps eliminate both weapons and criminals off the streets and potentially prevent crimes before they have a chance to take place. The technology doesn’t take the decision away from the human police officer. However, it does bring greater transparency and context to the decision-making process of whether a stop and search intervention is justified. Similarly, the advanced technology can recognize and match an individual seen on a CCTV camera at a crime scene to someone the police encounters on the streets some time later, justifying a stop and search on that individual. Its ability to check in real time if a person is on a criminal watchlist adds an extra layer to the decision-making process prior to conducting a stop and search, lowering the likelihood of discrimination. Facial recognition thus helps eliminate both weapons and criminals off the streets and potentially prevent crimes before they have a chance to take place. Gambling Addiction And How Facial Recognition Can Help There are an estimated 593,000 people in the UK currently battling a gambling problem, making it a serious public health issue in the country. Having understood the gravity of the issue, the UK gambling commission have set limits and advice in place to help those suffering this addiction; yet as with all addictions, gambling is a tough habit to beat. In order to put effective limitations in place and make a real difference, the gambling commission needs the right technology to protect those most vulnerable in the industry.   Facial recognition technology is able to keep track of customers and thus help gambling companies in protecting their customers Facial recognition technology is able to keep track of customers and thus help gambling companies in protecting their customers to a higher degree. Monitoring those entering and moving around gambling areas is an extremely difficult task for human staff to do alone, especially in large crowded areas such as casinos. Facial recognition technology installed around the premises would be able to help the company and the staff to identify people who have registered as gambling addicts, and keep record of their day’s play in order to inform staff if and when it was time for them to stop. It would also be able to ensure effective self-exclusion procedures, by identifying a self-excluded individual via CCTV as soon as they entered the venue to then allow security staff to respectfully escort them out. Utilizing Facial Recognition At Airport Security Facial recognition has by now become a normal sight at many airports around the world. Several people today hold a so-called biometric passport, which allows them to skip the normally longer queues and instead walk through an automated ePassport control to proceed to the gate faster without having to deal with control officers. Facial recognition used in this way has managed to significantly cut waiting times at the passport control, but it also has the ability to enhance security in and around airports. Facial recognition uses algorithms to match physical characteristics against photos and videos of people's faces Earlier this year, facial recognition technology managed to catch an imposter trying to enter the US at the Washington Dulles Airport. The false passport may have been uncaught by the human eye, yet due to the accuracy of the facial recognition technology it managed to help officers catch the imposter and bring him to justice. Facial recognition thus allows officers to identify an individual faster and more accurately than the human eye. Facial recognition uses algorithms to match physical characteristics against photos and videos of people's faces, which have been collected from visas, passports and other sources.   Facial recognition allows officers to identify an individual faster and more accurately than the human eye At airports the use of facial recognition has proved to both enhance security as well as speed up processes such as check-inWhile some critics may worry about issues of privacy related to the technology, at airports the use of facial recognition has proved to both enhance security as well as speed up processes such as check-in and, in the future, even boarding proceedings.  If used correctly and proportionately, facial recognition can help safeguard the public and improve national security on several fronts. While the many benefits of facial recognition are evident, the lack of regulation and understanding of the technology has led to misconception around how it works and what it is used for. Facial recognition technology can match faces in crowded public places against criminal watch lists, and register faces that match with those on criminal watch lists – while ignoring everyone else.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament is bringing 32 national teams and more than 400,000 foreign soccer fans from all over the world to 12 venues in 11 cities in Russia. Fans are crowding into cities including Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kazan. Given continuing global concerns about terrorism, security is top-of-mind. Protection of the World Cup games in Russia is focusing on an “integrated safety, security and service approach,” according to officials. Combining the term “security” with the terms “safety” and “service” is not an accident. An aggressive security stance is necessary, but at the end of the day, fan safety is paramount, and a service-oriented approach ensures a positive fan experience. Medical responders will be working side-by-side with police and antiterrorism personnel. Risk Management Best Practices We asked Sean T. Horner and Ben Joelson, directors of the Chertoff Group, a global advisory firm focused on best practices in security and risk management, to comment on security at FIFA World Cup 2018. Although not involved in securing the 2018 World Cup, the Chertoff Group is experienced at securing large events and enterprises using risk management, business practices and security. Integration is another important aspect of protecting the games, says Horner. The use of multiple resources, including Russian military, intelligence and law enforcement, will be closely integrated to provide the best security for the large-scale event in each of the host cities, he says. The approach will be centralized and flexible, with resource deployment guided by effective situational awareness.Primary security and emergency operations centers will be dispersed throughout each host city “There is a unified command structure at the Russian Federation level, and they will keep resources in reserve and shift them as needed to various events and venues based on any specific intelligence, in effect deploying resources where threats are greatest,” says Joelson. “There will also be some regional commands, and resources will incorporate a spectrum of police and military personnel ranging from the ‘cop on the beat’ to the Spetsnaz, the Russian ‘special forces.” Primary security and emergency operations centers will be dispersed throughout each host city, and additional forces can be shifted as necessary, he notes. Role Of Law Enforcement In Russia, the lines of separation between law enforcement and the military are not as stark as in the United States, for example, where military forces are restricted from deployment for domestic law enforcement by the Posse Comitatus Act. In Russia, there is no such restriction.  A broad range of technology will play a role at the World Cup, Horner and Joelson agree. Technology will be used primarily as a force multiplier and a decision-support tool for security personnel. There are robust CCTV systems in many Russian cities, and mobile CCTV systems, such as camera towers or mobile security centers on wheels, will also be deployed. Technologies will include infrared cameras, flood lights, and ferromagnetic screening systems to scan hundreds of individuals as they walk by. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors. Behavior analytics will be used as a decision-support tool. In addition to security in public areas, private CCTV systems in hotels, at transportation hubs, and inside the venues themselves will be leveraged. Video analytics and detection will help personnel review live view of people who may be acting suspiciously or who leave a bag unattended. In some locations, facial recognition systems will be used, tied into various intelligence, military and law enforcement databases of known bad actors Rigorous Anti-Terrorism Measures A Fan ID card is required to enter the 2018 FIFA World Cup Tournament, even for Russian residents. The Russians have an aggressive stance against domestic terrorism, which will also help ensure the safety of the World Cup games, say Horner and Joelson. Terrorist group ISIS has promised “unprecedented violence” at the games, but they make similar threats at every major global event. Russia has been an active force disrupting ISIS in Syria, and experts suggest that losing ground geographically could lead to addition “asymmetric” terrorist attacks. However, Russia is leveraging all their intelligence resources to identify any plots and deploying their security apparatus to disrupt any planned attacks, experts say. Russia’s rigorous anti-terrorism measures include a total ban on planes and other flying devices (such as drones) around the stadiums hosting the World Cup. Private Security In addition to military, intelligence and law enforcement personnel, private security will play a have a high profile during the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Private security personnel will be on the front lines in hotels and in “fan zones.” They will operate magnetometers at entrances, perform bag checks, enforce restrictions on hand-carried items, etc. Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games.Private security will be especially important to the “guest experience” aspects of protecting the games Another private security function at the World Cup is executive protection of dignitaries and high-net-worth individuals who will be attending. Executive protection professionals will arrive early, conduct advanced security assessments before VIPs arrive, and secure trusted and vetted transportation (including armored cars in some cases.) VIPs will include both Russian citizens and foreign (including U.S.) dignitaries attending the games. Private security details will be out in force. Aggressive Security Approach Overeager and outspoken fans are a part of the football culture, but Russia will deploy a near-zero tolerance policy against hooliganism and riots. An overwhelming force presence will take an aggressive approach to curbing any civil disturbances, and offenders will be removed quickly by Russian security forces. Strict restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcohol will be enforced in the venue cities before and after the matches. Officials will also be cognizant of the possibility of a riot or other event being used as a distraction to draw attention from another area where a terrorist event is planned. It will be a delicate balance between deploying an aggressive security approach and preserving the fan experience. Joelson notes that freedom of speech is not as valued in Russia as in other parts of the world, so the scales will be even more tipped toward security. “The last thing they want is for things to get out of control,” says Horner. “The event is putting Russia on the world stage, and they want visitors to walk away safely after having a great time and wanting to go back in the future.”Attendees should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations" Precautions for World Cup attendees Attendees to the World Cup in Russia should take some basic precautions, Horner and Joelson agree. For example, Russia requires a translated, notarised letter explaining any prescription drugs. The country has a more aggressive foreign intelligence environment, so visitors cannot depend on their data being private. Joelson recommends the usual “social media hygiene” and privacy settings. Visitors should not post information about their travel plans or locations, and it’s best to travel with a disposable mobile phone that does not contain personal information. Location tracking should be deactivated. Travelers should also beware of talking and sharing information with others, or of saying anything derogatory. “They should also have good situational awareness, and keep their heads up, scanning crowds and identifying unsafe situations,” says Joelson. “If you bring a personal electronic device, you should expect that it has been compromised,” says Horner. Text messages and email will not be private, and he suggests creating an email address used only for travel. Don’t leave drinks unattended. Travelers from the U.S. should register at the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) operated by the U.S. State Department. “Plan before you travel and before you get to the airport,” says Horner.

Arecont Vision is a company in transition to say the least. With its balance sheet burdened with debt, the company is seeking Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and simultaneously being acquired by a private equity firm. The ‘new’ Arecont Vision that will emerge after several months when the process is complete will have a new owner, a clean balance sheet, and be poised to succeed in the competitive world of video surveillance, says Raul Calderon, Arecont Vision CEO and General Manager.Good companies go through restructuring, and the company will be better off after doing it. We will be able to lead” Ensuring Business Continuity An asset purchase agreement announced this week with an affiliate of Turnspire Capital Partners LLC involves the private equity firm acquiring Arecont Vision’s assets. To eliminate the debt, the company has initiated proceedings under Chapter 11 of the United State Bankruptcy Code in the District of Delaware. “We want the industry to know that we are restructuring our business and our financing,” says Calderon. “We are not going out of business. It is a financial restructuring more than anything.” Business will continue uninterrupted during the bankruptcy, he says, with debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing provided by Arecont Vision’s current secured lenders. Turnspire, as the ‘stalking-horse bidder’, sets the low-end bidding bar and guarantees the company will have new ownership at the conclusion of the process “Good companies go through restructuring, and the company will be better off after doing it,” Calderon adds. “We will be able to lead and innovate, to be stronger, better and faster once we finish.” For perspective, it is interesting to note that, in the broader business world, some well-known companies have emerged from Chapter 11 even stronger, such as Delta and American Airlines and General Motors. Investment In Product Development Previously Arecont Vision has been burdened by the costs of $80 million in debt the owners took on in 2014. The burden of that debt has limited the company’s flexibility to react to the more competitive industry landscape, and to implement strategies to reverse softening sales numbers in the last couple of years. “We couldn’t use the money in the company because we were servicing the debt,” says Calderon. “In order to be compliant with the enormous debt service, we made decisions to reduce head count and expenses.” “[The bankruptcy] will free up that money to invest in the organization,” he adds. “We will be able to make decisions for our future rather than the past, including investments in product development.” Focus and investment will be on key functions such as engineering, product development and sales Although there is an asset purchase agreement in place with Turnspire, there will also be an auction that could result in a higher bidder. Turnspire, as the ‘stalking-horse bidder’, sets the low-end bidding bar and guarantees the company will have new ownership at the conclusion of the process, either Turnspire or a company that outbids their offer. [UPDATE: An additional bid received from Costar Technologies and Costar Video Systems ensures that an auction will be held on July 9, 2018.] Calderon says Turnspire “shares our vision and will ensure an exciting future for the company.” The transaction is expected to move fast and close within a couple of months.Arecont Vision expects to continue to compete based on technology differentiation in the market, rather than on price Maintaining Technology Differentiation-Based Competition Turnspire Capital Partners is a private equity investor that is a ‘turnaround specialist’. Their website describes their role as targeting “high-quality businesses that have reached strategic, operational or financial inflection points and stand to benefit from [a] hands-on, operationally focused approach.” Calderon says Arecont Vision’s investment banker, Imperial Capital, was instrumental in bringing Turnspire to the table. The Turnspire purchase agreement proposes that the new owner retain the majority of employees, and the overall function and motivation of the company will remain. New levels of outsourcing, new software tools, or other strategies may be implemented to increase efficiency of operations. Focus (and investment) are likely to center on key functions such as engineering, product development and sales. After the acquisition and bankruptcy are completed – in the next several months – Arecont Vision expects to continue to compete based on technology differentiation in the market, rather than on price, says Calderon. Business As Usual Customers and partners see it as a positive step, and they understand that getting rid of the debt burden can only be positive” Calderon declined to be more specific about future plans for the company under the new ownership, who will ultimately decide what those plans are. He did reiterate Arecont Vision’s past successes and expected continuing role in the market. “We are looking to provide the leadership and the type of solution we are known for providing,” he says. “We have come out with some innovative things historically, from megapixel cameras to the first H.264 cameras to the first omni-directional cameras. We have not stopped our innovation, and our intent is to lead the market again with innovative solutions. Another key is to do right by our customers today and in the future, improving customer service, providing better offerings to our customers – that’s what we will be looking to do.” “I’ve had a lot of conversations with customers and partners in the last couple of days,” Calderon says. “I can say the conversations have been encouraging. They see it as a positive step, and they understand that getting rid of the debt burden can only be positive. Customers and partners have offered help, and we’re still closing deals. It’s business as usual.” He noted the company is seeking transparency throughout the process and wants to ‘get in front of’ the information flow, rather than allowing others to drive the narrative.

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.

Deliveroo, one of the world’s fastest-growing tech businesses, has chosen AEOS access control by Nedap to protect its staff across the world. Nedap’s Uk Expert channel partner, Hunter Group, completed the installation at the first site, in Dubai, and an ambitious rollout will see Hunter install AEOS at around 50 more Deliveroo sites, plus new locations, over the next 12-18 months. Deliveroo was founded in the UK and is proud to export British-born technology around the world. Its ‘Frank’ algorithm is based on powerful predictive technology that evaluates the most efficient way of distributing orders based on the location of restaurants, riders and customers. Global Security Platform With 650% year-on-year growth, Deliveroo’s development has been explosive and the company now has at least 200 offices across 47 countries. Staff security is paramount for Deliveroo and it wanted a global security platform and technology partners capable of keeping up with its expansion. Naturally, Deliveroo is keen to embrace new technologies and innovations too, and wanted to move forward with companies like Nedap and Hunter that have the same future-facing mentality. AEOS will enable Deliveroo to centralize security and will be able to manage its global security system AEOS will enable Deliveroo to centralize security. It will be able to manage its global security system, and closely monitor staff safety at each location, from its London headquarters. Access control reporting will, for example, show that drivers have arrived safely and CCTV footage will enable offices to be viewed from across the world. Central Security Policy Some Deliveroo sites are in areas where staff need more robust protection. AEOS gives the flexibility to adapt security settings and solutions according to the site, while still adhering to a central security policy. Deliveroo can, for example, choose which identifiers its staff can use at each site, and can easily change this whenever it chooses to. AEOS also scales easily – both at individual sites and across new locations. So as Deliveroo continues to grow, its security system can too. Over the coming months, AEOS will be installed at Deliveroo sites in London, Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels, with sites in Madrid, Melbourne and Singapore following soon afterwards.

Amthal has worked closely with Garrard Windows to install smart CCTV systems for its showroom and factory site, to present ultimate protection for staff, customers and premium products in storage. Garrard Windows is one of the largest suppliers in England, presenting PVC-U and aluminum windows, bifold and patio doors, together with conservatories to the trade, with an objective to remain reliable, efficient and customer oriented. Manufacturing around 2,500 products a week, to ensure the security of products and supply on site, Gerrard Windows called upon Amthal to enhance its security and install CCTV systems throughout its factory and show room site. Smart CCTV Facilities Our aim is to supply the window trade with high quality products, always delivered on time and at competitive prices" Adam Webb, Director of Garrard Windows: “Our aim is to supply the window trade with high quality products, always delivered on time and at competitive prices. Many of our existing customers are fabricators themselves, relying on us for extra capacity in busy periods.” “To maintain this commitment and ability to respond quickly to customer requests, we have to ensure maximum security on site at all times. Amthal identified the subtle installation of smart CCTV facilities throughout our premises as added visual protection, to ensure we can view activity on a 24 / 7 / 365 basis, even when we are off site. Our staff are already feeling the benefits and peace of mind security.” Improved Technology David Williamson, Amthal Sales Account Manager: “Garrard Windows has a renowned reputation in the industry, not only as one of the largest suppliers, but also in responding quickly to client requests to a high-quality standard. It’s essential security on site is maintained to a maximum standard to sustain this level of efficiency and reliability.” The added visuality provides total peace of mind the right security is in place to protect against any risk" “Following an on-site inspection, Amthal made the recommendation of smart CCTV solutions to ensure Directors can feel the benefits of having new and improved technology helping to safeguard assets. The added visuality provides total peace of mind the right security is in place to protect against any risk, or possible disruption due to theft, to the smooth-running operation and delivery to our customers.” Satisfying End User Needs Independently owned, Amthal Fire & Security is dedicated to satisfying end user needs for security safety and convenience offering design, installation, service and remote monitoring of advanced electronic fire and security solutions, including intruder, Fire, Access and CCTV systems. Amthal Fire & Security is accredited by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB) United Kingdom Accreditation Services (UKAS) and British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).

Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES Council) is extending its Videalert CCTV enforcement platform with the installation of additional cameras for its approved class C clean air zone (CAZ) that gives exemptions to private cars but charges higher polluting buses, coaches, HGVs, LGVs/vans, private hire vehicles and taxis. Videalert was awarded the contract to ensure full and seamless integration with the council’s existing hosted digital video platform which is already being used to enforce a wide range of restrictions including bus lanes, bus gates and permit parking.  Videalert CCTV Enforcement Platform B&NES Council was one of 28 councils directed by the government to prepare an action plan to urgently reduce high levels of nitrogen dioxide (caused by vehicle emissions) to within EU and national limits by 2021 at the latest. The authority had originally proposed a Class D CAZ, charging all higher emission vehicles, including cars, to drive in the city center. However, following further ongoing technical work and a public consultation in December - which garnered an unprecedented 8,421 responses - a class C option with additional traffic management, was agreed. According to Chris Major, group manager for Transport and Parking at B&NES Council: “The new charging class C CAZ will achieve compliance by 2021 apart from a single exceedance caused by localised traffic issues. We believe this will be resolved by installing traffic signals at two junctions.” HD ANPR Cameras Videalert will be installing HD ANPR cameras to enforce the new CAZ scheme at key road junctions across the designated boundary Videalert will be installing HD ANPR cameras to enforce the new CAZ scheme at key road junctions across the designated boundary. The hosted Videalert platform will automate the management and enforcement of this new zone, providing real-time identification including vehicle make, model, color and euro standard rating for pre-filtering and updating the whitelist of compliant vehicles held at the edge to minimize transmission costs. Information on non-compliant vehicles will then interface with the UK government’s new national clean air zone database for vehicle validation and payment. The system will also provide detailed analytics and impact analysis highlighting the reduction in non-compliant vehicles entering the zone over time. Support Multiple Applications Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director at Videalert, added: “The award of this high-profile contract confirms Videalert’s ability to handle the evolving requirements of clean air and low emission zones. It also demonstrates how a single video data platform can support multiple applications, enabling councils to address the challenges of improving traffic congestion and air quality simultaneously.” The CAZ should commence operation at the end of 2020. The daily charge will be £9 for non-compliant taxis, private hire vehicles and light goods vehicles (the minimum standard being euro 6 for diesel and Euro 4 for petrol), and £100 for buses, coaches and HGVs (the minimum standard being euro 6).

Six CNI utilities sites across South West England and Wales have been secured from terrorist attacks and ongoing criminal threats in a £3.25 million security project. Gas distributor Wales & West Utilities appointed principal contractor Chubb Systems and Littlewood Fencing to work collaboratively on a fully-integrated perimeter protection upgrade. Littlewood secured the perimeter with a Lochrin Bain ‘Combi’ CPNI Approved palisade fence system enhanced with Gallagher monitored pulse fencing (MPF) to 4m high. They also installed Crime & Fire Defense Systems MAP vault panels, CCTV towers, security and field marshalling kiosks along with associated concrete and civil works. Collaborative Project Management Littlewood Security Division manager David Jackson said: “We’ve worked with Wales & West for many years as the incumbent supply and installation partner for perimeter security systems, but this latest project with Chubb also included the integration of access control, CCTV cameras, reporting systems and networks that enable remote monitoring from a central control station.” A large element of the package involved civil works that had to be completed mainly by hand In total, more than 2500m of fencing were installed along with twelve CPNI BASE vehicle gates and six Crime & Fire MAP vaults. With a number of sites located on the Brecon Beacons, access issues and inclement weather conditions made collaborative project management essential. A large element of the package involved civil works that had to be completed mainly by hand. This was achieved with a strong emphasis on health & safety ahead of program and to a high standard. Strategically Important Sites Gallagher business development manager Jason Hunter said: “A Gallagher MPF delivers safe and controlled, energised pulses. If seeing the fence and warning signs isn’t enough of a deterrent then receiving a short sharp shock should definitely deter. “The system is also connected to our Command Centre, which will alert the security team that there has been a breach so they can react quickly and effectively.” Wales & West Utilities security manager Ian Raclette said: “Gallagher’s MPF meets the CPNI criteria we demanded and helps us to detect criminal or terrorist activity in real time, reducing further any threat on these strategically important sites.” Wales & West Utilities covers a sixth of the UK, serving a population of 7.5 million. It launched on 1 June 2005, having formerly been part of National Grid Transco, and is now valued at £1.2billion.

OpenView Security Solutions, the UK’S largest privately-owned independent security company and a national supplier of electrical and mechanical services, has completed a major upgrade to the CCTV security systems used at Cardiff Airport, the national airport for Wales and a key gateway to the UK.  Upgrading Airport Security The project included a software upgrade for 40 cameras and replacement of a further 110 cameras with the latest high definition devices. The security network was expanded with an additional 80 cameras to meet the requirements of Cardiff Airport which is one of the UK’s key strategic assets that welcomes over 1.58 million passengers annually. Ian Godsell, IT Technician and GDPR Data Protection Officer at Cardiff Airport, said: “We have been impressed by the professional approach and expert advice provided by OpenView throughout the successful completion of this significant upgrade to our CCTV security systems. The safety and security of our staff and customers is our number one priority and the advanced technology in place supports our efforts to constantly monitor activity across the airport. This in turn supports our commitment to minimize risk and remain compliant in terms of regulatory standards.” IP Cameras And VMS The first phase saw OpenView upgrading the CCTV control room with Indigo Vision’s Control Center OpenView Security Solutions was invited to propose a solution for the staged upgrade of the security network as it was the airport’s incumbent CCTV systems maintainer and had received recommendations from Indigo Vision, which supplied the cameras, Video Management System (VMS) and Network Video Recorders (NVRs). The first phase of the upgrade project saw OpenView upgrading the CCTV control room with Indigo Vision’s Control Center, the company’s latest VMS platform and a new video wall to give operators the clearest view of the expanded camera network. It also provides department heads with browser-based access to video footage to quickly review events and enhance decision-making. Indigo Vision NVRs Additional Indigo Vision NVRs were installed to capture and store images from all cameras for a 31-day period with an additional unit for failover applications. The upgrade was planned and completed to minimize disruption to the airport operation and ensure continued security vigilance throughout the process.  OpenView then replaced existing cameras which were obsolete and, as soon as new cat 5 cabling had been installed by the airport’s third-party contractor, was able to complete the new installation locations across the Airport including fire stations, management suite and hangars. HD CCTV Surveillance System This upgrade confirms OpenView’s ability to handle major infrastructure projects for safety critical organizations throughout the UK" “With extensive experience of working with airports and a nationwide network of strategically located offices, this upgrade confirms OpenView’s ability to handle major infrastructure projects for safety critical organizations throughout the UK,” added Andy Ward, Sales Director at OpenView Security Solutions. Several challenges had to be overcome while completing this upgrade, including having to unexpectedly replace collapsed ducting in some of the car parks and the handling of all intricacies involved in risk assessments relating to working at height throughout the airport. OpenView continues to provide a high-quality maintenance support service to ensure the system consistently operates at peak efficiency and is working closely with the IT team to further enhance the CCTV network as the airport continues to expand.

Genetec Inc., a technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations and business intelligence solutions, announces its solutions have been selected by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) for region-wide CCTV monitoring and community safety purposes. The new system will result in better coverage across the borough and enable information to be quickly shared with regional police as and when required. At the heart of the program is a completely refurbished monitoring center, equipped with the Genetec flagship unified security platform Security Center and other complementary Genetec security solutions. KiwiVision Privacy Protector The open federated architecture of the Genetec infrastructure provides the foundation for a system that can scale and evolve as needs change These include the KiwiVision Privacy Protector to simplify GDPR compliance, Genetec Mission Control to guide operators in providing a consistent response to incidents and Genetec Clearance for the easy and secure sharing of evidence with local law enforcement. The open federated architecture of the Genetec infrastructure provides the foundation for a system that can scale and evolve as needs change. It also allows RBWM to protect its past investments by retaining the majority of its existing cameras, alongside the 200 that will be added, upgraded or relocated. “The safety of residents and visitors in the borough is a priority, and we are pleased to be installing a new-state of the art system that delivers this,” said Cllr. Mike Airey, cabinet member for environmental services. Improved Information Sharing “We not only benefit from reduced operating costs and improved information sharing with local police, but we also gain access to cutting edge privacy controls that make it far simpler for us to maintain our compliance with the EU GDPR and other data protection regulations.” The project began when specialist town center video surveillance consultancy firm Global MSC Security (MSC) was called in to assess the Royal Borough’s existing analog video surveillance system, its fitness for purpose and how it could be cost-effectively improved. This resulted in a competitive tendering exercise won by Computerised & Digital Security Systems Ltd. Cost-Effective Response (CDS) who designed a state-of-the-art wireless camera system to support the Genetec open architecture video management system (CDS) who designed a state-of-the-art wireless camera system to support the Genetec open architecture video management system. Some of the key technical benefits delivered by CDS include full HD recording, advance graphical mapping, advanced incident response, customisable and extended video storage retention, and various features to aid data protection regulation compliance such as automated pixelisation of images and end-to-end encryption to enhance privacy controls “Genetec is delighted to see our solutions chosen by the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead for this well thought out upgrade that will benefit the council, local police and citizens”, added Dan Meyrick, Regional Sales Manager, Genetec Inc. “I would like to thank and congratulate our partner CDS for producing a high quality and cost-effective response that delivered against the customer’s requirements.”

Physical security technologies operate successfully in many different markets, but in which markets do they fall short? Physical security is a difficult challenge that can sometime defy the best efforts of manufacturers, integrators and end users. This is especially the case in some of the more problematic markets and applications where even the best technology has to offer may not be good enough, or could it be that the best technology has not been adequately applied? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable to reflect on instances when the industry may fall short: Which segments of the physical security industry are most under-served and why?

In the simplest terms, video systems capture and record video. But supporting these basic operations are a growing number of other functions that expand usefulness and the ability to interact with related elements in a larger system. As video system functionality expands, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the most important function of a video surveillance system and why?

There is no expectation of privacy in a public space. That’s the premise on which most video surveillance applications are justified. But new concerns about privacy, specifically the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, are changing expectations. And what if a camera must be positioned where a private area happens to be within its range? Fortunately, there are technology approaches to solving these dilemmas, as our Expert Panelists explain. We asked: What new technologies are helping video systems overcome concerns about privacy?