Fiber Optics

Sensor solution provider, HENSOLDT is expanding its capacity to cater for the growth in its business. HENSOLDT is investing approximately 30 million euros at its Ulm site and creating an additional 300 jobs for highly skilled staff throughout the entire group this year, having taken on 250 new recruits in 2020. New radar for Eurofighters This investment is linked to strong order growth relating to the development of new radar for the Eurofighter combat aircraft and other projects. “In its three years of existence, HENSOLDT has strengthened its position in the global sensor solutions market,” affirmed HENSOLDT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Thomas Müller. Thomas Müller adds, “We operate in the high-tech sensor technology arena, a growing segment characterized by very long-term planning. Accordingly, our investment in new technologies and development laboratories is an indispensable part of our growth strategy.” AI-based sensors AI-based sensors for a wide range of applications will also be developed at the Ulm site The company is investing in the construction of a radio frequency technology development center at the Ulm site, among other things. In addition to electronic components for the new Eurofighter radar, AI-based sensors for a wide range of applications will also be developed at the Ulm site. Last year, the German Parliament approved a budget of approximately 1.5 billion euros for the development of new Eurofighter radar by a development consortium led by HENSOLDT. Other business units of the group are also showing strong growth, such as ground and naval radars, electronic warfare and avionics systems, and optronics equipment. FACS and UAV collision warning system For instance, HENSOLDT is working on future-oriented projects, such as the German/French/Spanish Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and a UAV collision warning system. Recently, in 2020, HENSOLDT already hired 250 new employees, expanded its cleanroom production at its Oberkochen site by 300 sq. meters and converted its radar production in Ulm to series production. The new positions cover many different disciplines, in addition to hardware and software engineers, the company is especially interested in recruiting radar system engineers and project managers.

ComNet, Communication Networks of Danbury, Connecticut, an ACRE company, and a USA-based manufacturer of fiber optic transmission and networking equipment, is expanding the line of Cybersecurity products by adding to its line of intelligent media converters. These intelligent media converters with Link Guardian create a physical layer of protection that limits network traffic to one-way communication between the source and destination networks. The ComNet CNGEUMC4+2(TX, RX)/M is designed to prevent cybersecurity attacks by limiting data flow to one direction between a secured and unsecured network. External cyber threats How the devices are deployed will determine which direction the data will flow. Called a ‘Unidirectional Media Converter’, this physical security is more effective than software-enabled network firewalls. This data connection is un-hackable and invulnerable to malware. The ComNet CNGEMUMC4+2(TX, RX)/M is a hardened four-port all-gigabit intelligent Media Converter. This product is designed to provide deterministic data transfer in only one direction (unidirectional), to segment and protect networks, devices, and other digital assets (databases, historians, SCADA, PLCs, DCS, etc.) from external cyber threats. Distance extending device The primary purpose is as a distance extending device, but they can also be used as an entry point to a network" It has four 10/100/1000Base-T(X) copper ports and two 1000Base-FX SFP ports. It effectively only allows data to travel in one direction. The CNGEMUMC4+2(TX, RX)/M provides exclusive functionality for easy field deployment including DIP switch-based operation of RSFP (redundant SFP) for creating redundant fiber connections. According to Andrew Acquarulo Jr., ComNet CEO and President, “Media converters are generally simple to use. The primary purpose is as a distance extending device, but they can also be used as an entry point to a network. By adding features such as Link Guardian, we are offering our customers another way of making their network more reliable and secure from unauthorized access. This keeps us front and center in terms of innovation.” More competitive position The company believes that these features give them a more competitive position in the market and allows ComNet to be unique and differentiate the product line. “Making any network operate more efficiently and effectively is another way of how ComNet moves the market. Cybersecurity/ unauthorized access is a monumental concern for all security networks.” “By leading with our advanced technology, such as Link Guardian, we position ComNet and our solutions as the company to turn for ‘new and better’ transmission options. Our position is that if you are concerned about the long-term success of your application, choosing ComNet ensures it will be,” said Skip Haight, ComNet VP of Marketing.

Security breaches of borders, utility plants and airports can have catastrophic and devastating consequences, so protecting assets is vital. The global perimeter security market is expected to reach USD29.6 billion by 2025, driven by growing terrorist threats, increased awareness of illegal immigration, planned crimes, thefts and smuggling. Continuous monitoring system Existing perimeter intrusion detection technologies typically rely on point sensors such as cameras that are positioned along a perimeter or border at regular intervals. However, cameras have their limits. They can only provide line-of-sight coverage at specific points; they do not deliver continuous monitoring or provide full visibility of the entirety of the perimeter. Asset monitoring technology This is where LiveDETECT comes in. This real-time linear asset monitoring technology from Fotech, a bp Launchpad company, turns fiber optic cabels along a border or perimeter into an entire, continuous length of sensors, monitoring the asset at all times. “The sheer distance of some borders and perimeters means it is impossible to achieve true round-the-clock monitoring of the perimeter length with physical patrols or CCTV.” “The solution of positioning cameras every few metres is not feasible from an economic point of view yet leaving gaps in coverage is an open invitation for threats and intrusions,” says Ken Crowe, Security Industry Sector Manager for Fotech. Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology Helios DAS analyzes the changes to identify and to categorize the disturbance eventLiveDETECT uses Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) technology, which sends thousands of pulses of light along with fiber optic cables every second and monitors the pattern of light reflected back. The fiber optic cable picks up any acoustic or vibrational energy, which changes the light pattern that is reflected back to the hardware, Helios DAS, indicating a disturbance of some kind. Thanks to advanced algorithms and processing techniques, Helios DAS analyzes these changes to identify and to categorize the disturbance event, such as walking near or interfering with a boundary, placing a ladder on a fence, or digging near a perimeter. Each type of disturbance has its own signature, and the technology can tell an operator in real-time, what happened, exactly where it happened, and when it happened. More importantly, it can also filter out background noise, adapting its response for high-risk or low-risk zones along the perimeter. Perimeter security “If a perimeter is near a frequently-used track for runners, we can ensure that the normal activity doesn’t set off alarms.” “However, a personnel signature at 3 am or one that stops near the fence perimeter would be viewed as unusual. Any deviations from a normal pattern of behavior can be programmed and an alert raised,” says Crowe. If a security breach is detected and there is an attempted intrusion, the system alerts the Alarm Management Server and security personnel so they can take the most appropriate action. There are three levels of alert: green, amber, and red. Red is the highest alert level, usually when someone or something could imminently breach the inside of the perimeter. Easily integrated LiveDETECT should be part of a foundational security strategy. It is easily integrated into existing security systems, working in conjunction with cameras, sentry posts, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) also known as drones, to provide situational awareness and to enhance overall protection. “What LiveDETECT delivers is a perimeter with no security gaps. This increases the efficacy and accuracy of identifying potential breaches, as well as boosting the speed of response through the real-time detection of incidents anywhere on the perimeter,” Crowe adds. Active intrusion alert LiveDETECT is covert and intruders will be unaware of its existence With an active intrusion alert, LiveDETECT can provide information on where cameras should be pointing. Alternatively, LiveDETECT can send GPS coordinates of the on-going disturbance to a UAV, which automatically launches itself to investigate more fully. As fiber optic cables are typically buried in the ground, LiveDETECT is covert; intruders will be unaware of its existence. Furthermore, DAS is not affected by the weather, cameras would not be beneficial in a sandstorm or a snowstorm, whereas LiveDETECT can continue to operate reliably. Robust system “LiveDETECT is a robust system into which we can build extra safe-guards. The fiber optics can be configured in a dual-loop and run in parallel to provide redundancy, and maintain coverage if a sensing cable is maliciously or accidentally cut,” Crowe says. The monitoring system software can also be mirrored to a secondary site, so alerts are recorded in two locations, ensuring the responsibility does not lie with one person. Security for the future During the last decade, technological advances have helped increase the scope of perimeter security systems. Perimeter security systems have historically been used to detect and to deter intrusions in military facilities and critical infrastructure. Today, they are being adopted in commercial and transportation sites as well as residential gated communities in high-risk countries. LiveDETECT fills the gaps in the border and perimeter surveillance efforts, delivering continued monitoring compared to existing technologies, improved security, reduced human and drug trafficking, and detection of tunnel digging. Crowe concludes, “LiveDETECT’s ability to provide continuous monitoring of an entire perimeter and to raise alerts in real-time, gives security teams the comprehensive overview they need to manage their operations and respond to threats effectively.”

Tamron Co., Ltd., a renowned manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, currently offers an array of globally renowned Ø29mm compact-size fixed-focal lenses, M117FM series, compatible with 1/1.7” imagers and full 6-mega pixel resolution, for machine vision applications. Five new models, M117FM12 / M117FM16 / M117FM25 / M117FM35 / M117FM50, will be released to support the growing needs of applications. Mega-pixel cameras used for machine vision applications including production equipment, print circuit board mounting equipment, various test equipment, and various machine tools, are migrating toward higher resolution. Tamron currently offers a variety of mega-pixel machine vision lenses with 30 different models compatible with 1.1”, 1/1.2”, 2/3”, 1/1.7” and 1/1.8” imagers. Machine vision applications Currently, rapid growth is expected in the use of machine-vision lenses compatible with 1/1.7” and 1/1.8” imagers of 6-mega pixel resolution. To meet the need, Tamron’s M117FM series is added with five new models. The new M117FM portfolio, in addition to the two models currently available (wide-angle 1/1.7” 6mm F/2.4 (Model: M117FM06) and 1/1.7” 8mm F/2.4 (Model: M117FM08)), offers a total of seven models to meet the requirements of a wide range of field of view in machine vision applications. Tamron’s state-of-the-art optics technology significantly reduces TV distortion compared with previous models The expanded lineup of compact-size M117FM models, with an outer diameter of Ø29mm, offers an optimum selection for all machine vision applications, and assures compact size, high-resolution, high-contrast imaging for all shooting distances including up-close distances. Fixed focal lenses Tamron develops popular and affordable high-resolution fixed focal lenses that address customers’ critical requirements and needs in all machine vision applications and pursues optical performance that assures distinguished fidelity in all image details with excellent user utility. Key Features High Contrast and Resolution Unrivaled in the Industry The new lenses are compatible with 1/1.7” imagers supporting 2.74μm pixel-pitch 6-mega (max) pixel resolution, with an approved highest-level resolution and contrast in Ø29mm machine-vision lenses. Industry renowned Low Distortion (TV Distortion) Tamron’s state-of-the-art optics technology significantly reduces TV distortion compared with previous models. Specification: M117FM12: -0.45% / M117FM16: -0.1% / M117FM25: -0.1% / M117FM35: -0.1% / M117FM50: -0.1% High-Quality Imaging in Close-up Shooting Distances The new lenses assure high-quality imaging in commonly used close-up distances. Rigorous Guarantee of Image Quality Thorough inspection is performed on the imaging resolution from the center to the periphery, delivering high-contrast and high-resolution without unbalanced blurring throughout the entire lens view. Robust Design of Anti-Vibration and Anti-Shock Mechanism New mechanism improves anti-vibration and anti-shock performance compared with previous models. Even under adverse conditions, the new mechanism suppresses the impact of vibration and shock of up to 10G of magnitude and limits the optical (image) deflection within 10μm. Vibration frequency 10-60Hz (amplitude 0.75mm), vibration frequency 60-200Hz (acceleration 100m/s2), and the number of cycles: 50 cycles. A Common use Setscrew is Included as a Standard Accessory A lock screw provided with the models can be changed to an embedding type setscrew. This further reduces the overall diameter of the lens barrel for more compact installation. Various optical devices Tamron provides a wide range of original optical products, from interchangeable lenses for digital cameras to various optical devices for both the general consumer and OEM. The company makes optical products that contribute to a range of different industries and will continue to devote its rich creativity and popular edge technical prowess to various industrial fields. Furthermore, Tamron is fully aware of its responsibility to the environment and aspires to help preserve the natural environment in all its business activities.

Gigaclear, the renowned rural broadband services provider, has officially launched its Community Hub Scheme, which aims to provide free broadband to critical community services. 137 of Gigaclear’s Community Hubs are already connected to its ultrafast network, but all areas in which Gigaclear is building are encouraged to apply for the initiative. Ultrafast, full-fiber network The company, which has continued to expand its ultrafast, full-fiber network to reach more people across rural Britain throughout 2020, has been providing one free connection in each of its community projects, with many using it to great effect during lockdown. Services that particularly benefit local people, such as community halls, libraries, shops and schools, tend to be those chosen to receive the connection. The latest service to benefit is Chadlington Memorial Hall in Oxfordshire. Community Hub Scheme As part of its Community Hub Scheme, Gigaclear was kind enough to provide the hall with WiFi for free" Susan Cox, Chairman, Chadlington Memorial Hall Trustees, commented “When Chadlington Primary School was set to re-open in September, government guidelines meant that it would be hard-pressed to accommodate all pupils onsite while following the special measures that needed to be implemented to safeguard against the spread of COVID-19.” Susan adds, “The school wanted to hire the hall as an overflow teaching space, but the provision of WiFi, which the hall lacked at the time, was something that first needed to be addressed. Fortunately, as part of its Community Hub Scheme, Gigaclear was kind enough to provide the hall with WiFi for free. This has been a welcome measure for Chadlington Primary School and, once the pandemic eases, will be a great help in returning the hall to full use by the local community.” Free WiFi connectivity to underserved communities Gareth Williams, the Chief Executive Officer at Gigaclear, commented “We are passionate about digital inclusion and our mission is to connect the most underserved communities that are so often underserviced by the industry’s biggest players when it comes to broadband so that no one is left behind. As part of that commitment, we’ve launched a Community Hub Scheme to provide critical community services with free, 12-month, 900Mbps internet connections.” Gareth adds, “We know how transformative it can be to connect community hotspots to ultrafast full-fiber broadband, whether it’s the village hall, local pub, school, community center, shop, library or sports center. Our scheme is intent on enabling communities to do more and enjoy the benefits that come with world-renowned connectivity, whether that is helping schools to stay open, enabling pubs to operate safely with online ordering, or something else, the possibilities are endless.”

All Siqura activities will continue under the banner of TKH Security. These renowned companies in video security solutions were both already members of TKH Group NV. The Siqura video security solutions are often sold in combination with the developed security solutions of TKH Security and this complete solution is highly appreciated by their customers worldwide. Therefore, the time has come to group all activities in TKH Security. “By combining all activities, we give our customers more transparency and clarity in what we can offer them. Furthermore, we increase our services. For example, the contact point for all questions and orders, invoices, documentation, support tickets, etc. will be centralized. This will be much more efficient for our customers as well as our employees”, says Timme Grijpink, Managing Director of TKH Security. Site management solutions TKH Security specializes in the development of electronic Security & Site Management Systems The Siqura brand will be retained for the wide product range of Siqura, such as security cameras, mobility cameras, marine cameras, explosion-proof and thermal cameras, IP video encoders, ethernet switches and fiber optic transmitters. This product range is complementary to the TKH Security product range, encompassing security management, video management, parking facility management and asset & site management solutions. With this aggregation of activities TKH Security has offices worldwide in Amsterdam, Gouda and Zoetermeer (the Netherlands), Madrid (Spain), Dubai (UAE), Singapore and Frederick (USA). TKH Security specializes in the development of electronic Security & Site Management Systems. Open architecture integration With over 25 years of experience and by listening to customer needs, the company offers complete innovative solutions for Security Management, Access Control, Video Management, Intrusion Detection, Intercom, Personal Surveillance, Asset & Site Management and Parking Facility Management. The company is always looking for innovative solutions for the market with a focus on creative, flexible and open architecture integration. TKH Security has a strong position in the Benelux and multiple offices all over the world. TKH Security is a member of TKH Group N.V.

Global and domestic threats have highlighted the need for tighter security across all verticals. One of the technologies that has redefined situational awareness and intrusion detection is thermal imaging. Once a technology exclusively manufactured for the military operations, thermal cameras today are deployed across hundreds of security applications and continue to see strong demand in existing and emerging commercial markets. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain Technology Overview And Early Adoption What distinguishes thermal cameras from optical sensors is their ability to produce images based on infrared energy, or heat, rather than light. By measuring the heat signatures of all objects and capturing minute differences between them, thermal cameras produce clear, sharp video despite unfavorable environmental conditions. With thermal technology, security personnel can see in complete darkness as well as in light fog, smoke and rain. Originally a military developed, commercially qualified technology, the first thermal cameras for military and aircraft use appeared in the 1950s. By the 1960s, the technology had been declassified and the first thermal camera for commercial use was introduced. However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s - when FLIR Systems introduced a camera with an uncooled thermal detector - when the technology began to see substantial adoption beyond government defense deployments. Installations At Critical Infrastructure Sites In the 2000s, industrial companies were some of the first adopters of thermal, using the technology for predictive maintenance to monitor overheating and machine malfunctions. In the years following the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, there was an increase in thermal camera installations across critical infrastructure sites. Stricter security requirements drove the deployment of thermal cameras for perimeter protection, especially in the nuclear power sector. Thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and their sharp images result in higher performing analytics In 2010, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Committee released its 73.55 policy, which states nuclear facilities must “provide continuous surveillance, observation and monitoring” as a means to enhance threat detection and deterrence efforts onsite. Because thermal cameras produce clear video in daylight, low light or no light scenarios and because their sharp images result in higher performing analytics, thermal cameras quickly became the preferred option for nuclear facilities. Likewise, following the 2013 sniper attack on PG&E Corporation’s Metcalf transmission substation, the Federal Energy Regulation Commission introduced the Critical Infrastructure Protection Standard 014 (CIP-014). The policy requires utilities to identify threats to mission critical assets and implement a security system to mitigate those risks. This statute also led to more thermal installations in the utility sector as thermal cameras’ long-range capabilities are ideal for detection of approaching targets beyond the fence line. The demand from both industrial and critical infrastructure entities, as well as other factors, helped drive volume production and price reduction for thermal, making the technology more accessible to the commercial security marketplace. Commercial Applications In recent years, the increasing affordability of thermal cameras along with the introduction of new thermal offerings has opened the door to new commercial applications for the technology. In the past, thermal cameras were designed for applications with enormous perimeters, where the camera needed to detect a human from 700 meters away. Locations like car dealerships, marinas and construction supply facilities can be protected by precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras providing an early warning to security personnel Today, there are thermal cameras specifically designed for short- to mid-range applications. Developed for small to medium enterprises, these thermal cameras ensure property size and security funds are no longer barriers to adoption. Lumber yards, recreation fields and sports arenas are some of the commercial applications now able to implement thermal cameras for 24-hour monitoring and intrusion detection. Affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses Innovation And Advancements Innovation and advancements in the core technology have also spurred growth in thermal camera deployment, providing faster image processing, higher resolution, greater video analytic capabilities and better camera performance. In particular, affordable thermal cameras with onboard analytics have become attractive options for commercial businesses that need outdoor, wide area protection. Car dealerships, marinas and construction supply locations all store valuable merchandise and materials outside. Without protection, these assets are vulnerable to vandalism and theft. However, by providing precise target detection, thermal analytic cameras provide an early warning to security personnel so that they can intervene before a crime is committed. By helping to deter just one incident, the thermal solution delivers a clear ROI. New Market Opportunities Not only are there more thermal cameras in use today than ever before, but there are also more thermal sensors being integrated with other multi-sensor systems, driving the adoption of thermal in new markets. For large perimeter surveillance applications, thermal is repeatedly being integrated with radar and drones to expand situational awareness beyond the point of fixed cameras. Users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment In the commercial market, thermal imagers are combined with optical sensors, analytics and LED illuminators into one solution that integrates with central monitoring station platforms. By bringing these technologies together, users get immediate, accurate alerts of approaching targets and evidentiary class video for target assessment. The result is a lower number of false positives, reducing the total cost of ownership for the solution. These multi-sensor solutions also feature two-way audio capabilities, which enable remote security officers to act as “virtual guards” and speak to intruders in real-time to dissuade them from illegal activity. The introduction of solutions that integrate all these state-of-the-art technologies under one unit reduces the amount of capital and infrastructure needed for deployment. Consequently, more small businesses and alarm monitoring companies can implement advanced perimeter security technologies like thermal sensors, some for the very first time. Thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras Multi-Sensor Thermal Solutions Multi-sensor solutions featuring thermal are quickly gaining traction and opening the door to new business opportunities for the security channel. One of the primary reasons for the strong market interest in these systems is they enable integrators to increase their recurring monthly revenue (RMR). With intense price competition and eroding margins on CCTV equipment, integrators have to rely on RMR to grow their businesses. Offering remote video monitoring services and virtual guarding technologies is one of the best ways to do so.  Additionally, there is a clear demand for it. Central stations are continually looking for new technologies to offer their customers and businesses are interested in economical alternatives to physical guards. In conclusion, thermal cameras have gone from military defense devices to widespread commercial security cameras that are a substantial segment of the outdoor security protection market. From nuclear power plants to construction locations, thermal technology is being implemented to secure sites around the globe.

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.

Security consultants are on the front lines of trends such as “smart buildings” and the increasing demand for green technologies. We recently gathered together several consultants to reflect on what’s new in these areas, joined by a representative of HID Global. Participants were Chris Grniet of Guidepost Solutions, Brandon Frazier of Elert & Associates, Terry Harless of Burns & McDonnell, and Harm Radstaak, HID Global’s Vice President and Managing Director, Physical Access Control. SourceSecurity.com: What are your thoughts on the emergence of “smart buildings”? How do you see the concept expanding? How does making a building “smart” add value to it as an asset? Brandon Frazier: The term smart building has been a moving target beginning in the late 1800s with the electric thermostat. As I see things now becoming networked, becoming smarter, I think we’ll be able to aggregate a lot of data, and probably use that data. I think there will be new ways to use data for the average customer. Chris Grniet: Smart buildings have been a long time coming. It’s about green, sustainability, the ability to control your environment, and making sure you get the most efficiency out of an asset. To understand how an asset is being used is very important. A lot of clients these days are looking for occupancy calculations: Are my facilities being used to their utmost capabilities? What are my populations, and how do I control the environments? And is the real estate really worth keeping because so many people are working remotely? Harm Radstaak: I believe that smart buildings will bring our traditional security industry potentially into a new space, with data analytics and servicing end users, and channeling data to be used for green buildings, sustainability, space utilization. It’s important for our industry to know how we will make sure that data is secure and trusted for end users and to provide the correct technology, services and solutions. Terry Harless: Another thing is that smart buildings can be used for maintenance. In the security world, you can keep a log of how many people have gone through a door, or use it for maintaining batteries if you’re using wireless devices, or maybe maintain your locks when they have been cycled so many times. {##Poll36 - How do you make your security systems more green?##} SourceSecurity.com: How important is being “green” related to design decisions and product selection? How do you use green products? Frazier: The world of selecting electronics based on green criteria has always been very tricky. A lot of manufacturers have come out with “green products.” I’ve seen more power-efficient products, and we are seeing certifications on them. But it is very difficult, I think, to truly design a green technology-based system end-to-end. Not just single components but an entirely efficient system. Radstaak: I see it as absolutely a trend for end users to specify new buildings according to sustainability and green specifications. For HID Global and ASSA ABLOY, we see it as one of the megatrends worldwide. Green and sustainability are critical as we define our products and solution set and bring that back to the table in design engineering and product marketing. Harless: I’m on board and think green is good. But as far as helping with accumulating points for the LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] certification, I have talked with several architects and engineers in the past who are LEED certified and discussed with them some of the green security products out there. For the most part, they say the products are not providing any points for them. They typically don’t want to waste the time of adding security into their evaluation. SourceSecurity.com: So the “green” that we have achieved in the security market is not translating into enough quantitative scoring to make a difference in the LEED certification. Frazier: I think our power usage is so miniscule compared to the big building systems that the savings we offer are just not worth their time (to document). Grniet: I have had some opposite experiences where we are able to contribute if we don’t call it a security category, but we put it in with the low voltage category, so now we have greener power consumption on my switches, my computing systems, people are putting OTNs (optical transport networks) in, and not utilising as much power on a floor-by-floor basis. Now I have smart power supplies, smart locks, green locks. Where the industry has always lacked is the sustainability piece. We talk about zero landfill projects. We talk about rare earth metals involved in these processes, and other materials; this industry continues to source from remote regions. Everybody is pitching “built in America,” but we all have to source something from abroad, and those are real challenges for the security industry. Not to mention the fact that, unfortunately, we ship everything in small packages – it’s all unitised. So we create massive landfills by doing that. There are some companies that have gone out and started packaging in mass relative to orders and said: “This is how we are going to ship, not on an individual piece-by-piece basis.” That has to speak to the entire supply chain relative to sustainability. Read part 2 of our Consultants' Forum series here

Video, access control and visitor management are among the technologies that are enabling greater safety and security at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Video surveillance systems enable hospital management and security professionals to know what goes on in and around a medical facility. Recording images in high resolutions (megapixels and gigapixels) is becoming more and more important in healthcare, says Jason Ouellette, Product Line Director – Access Control, Tyco Security Products. Video event management software Video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes If an incident occurs in a medical facility, the security staff has to be able to identify faces easily and accurately. Storage and costs have to be considered, of course. With technology improving and prices decreasing, video solutions can even be used for purposes beyond traditional security. For example, video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes, and captured video can be used to defend against liability claims. What’s next? Video analytics will continue to be a valuable addition to any surveillance infrastructure due to its ability to address patient needs, operational efficiencies and early risk detection, says Brandon Reich, Senior Director of Surveillance Solutions, Pivot3. Through video event management software (VEMS), hospitals can customize the statistics that are relevant to their individual buildings or campuses without having to spend extra time or money on rigorous employee training. Data capture form to appear here! Real-Time access control security updates Furthermore, once healthcare facilities are able to digitize all of their patient records, secure any of their ingress and egress points with real-time access control security updates, and fully transition from analog to IP video surveillance cameras, VEMS systems that house analytical software will be able to multiply the benefits offered to hospitals, not just in real time, but in planning ahead for future risk, expansion and safety protocols. It is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions With large, complex facilities, directors of security at hospitals struggle with controlling access to various levels of the facility, according to Eric Widlitz of Vanderbilt Industries. To manage the risks that hospitals face and ensure a comprehensively protected atmosphere for patients and staff, it is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions. For example, ease of access with controlled entrances is vital to medical crash teams, as is the need for a zonal access control lockdown in the event of a contagious disease outbreak. Strict access limitations Different hallways, rooms, floors and waiting areas within a hospital require different amounts of restriction, and sensitive materials, such as medical files, controlled substances and sterile environments (such as operating and procedure rooms) all necessitate an additional layer of protection. Access control in particular has advanced significantly to offer healthcare facilities the ability to control access remotely, through mobile applications, confirm identity quickly and easily and program varying levels of access for visitors, patients, doctors and staff. One area that is recently experiencing rapid growth – and drastic change  –is the securing of narcotics within healthcare facilities, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. In the past, all medicine was controlled in a central pharmacy located somewhere in the hospital or health facility. These pharmacies were highly secured areas, with strict access limitations; only authorized staff could get near the medicine stocks. Fiber optic communication lines For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers To improve the speed of delivery, and to have the necessary medicines ready at hand for in-patients without retaining a large delivery staff, the current trend is to have distributed pharmaceutical closets or carts that hold medicines much closer to the intended patients. For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers, according to Gregg Hamm of Delta Scientific. Manual beam barricades are installed at the Fort Bragg Veterans Administration Hospital in North Carolina to shut down certain areas of the facility when a higher alert is sounded. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. The Navy Hospital in San Diego uses high speed, high security and very shallow foundation barricades to control all vehicles going in and out of the facility. With their extremely shallow foundation, they obviate the concerns of interference with buried pipes, power lines and fiber optic communication lines. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. At the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, even stronger shallow foundation barriers are used for traffic control and protection. These barriers will destroy a 65,000-pound (5.4 million foot-pounds) dump truck traveling 50 mph and continue to stand. Physical access control systems Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security. Traditional methods of visitor management, such as paper visitor logs and handwritten badges are insufficient given today’s variety of security challenges. A hospital using paper-based systems cannot easily cross-check information, confirm patient information, check visitor names against up-to-date watch lists, or visually confirm identity. An increasingly popular and important application is secure and simplified visitor management, integrated with the physical access control systems (PACS). Today’s visitor management systems enable the screening, badging and tracking all visitors or, at a minimum, those visiting critical areas or during ‘after hours’ periods, Quickly identify inappropriate visitors One other growing technology is the ability to link to internal or governmental watch lists, to quickly identify inappropriate visitors before they gain access to the facilities. For example, Visitor Management systems can be configured to perform a Sex Offender search in both Children’s Hospitals and Pediatric areas, further decreasing the likelihood that someone of the list could gain access. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination HID Global and Phunware Inc. are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardized technology to provide a better wayfinding and visitor engagement experience inside the hospital, across campus and even in parking lots. The companies are collaborating to improve the experience for hospital patients and visitors to find their way within medical facilities, using wayfinding on their mobile phones. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination. Enterprise-Level mobile wayfinding “It’s easy for visitors and patients to get lost in hospitals, and every time they do it puts appointment times and patient satisfaction at risk,” says Rom Eizenberg, Vice President of Sales, Bluvision, part of HID Global “With our location-aware app on a mobile device, we equip the visitor to get instant, turn-by-turn navigation that creates a better experience than that which is currently available on the market.” HID’s healthcare IoT solution-enablement platform simplifies the delivery of real-time location of clinicians, patients and devices. The platform is enabled by Bluvision (part of HID Global). Phunware’s Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform also provides enterprise-level mobile wayfinding, engagement, data and more for other vertical markets, including retail, residential, hospitality, media and entertainment and more .Missed the rest our healthcare mini series? Read part one here and part two here.

One of the key problems in airport security is the sheer size of the perimeter and a large number of incidents are in fact linked to unauthorized access onto the airfield, either runways or where aircrafts are being loaded or refueled posing an extremely high risk. Most airports will combine multiple sensors and technologies to protect the actual perimeter fence and even beyond the perimeter fence, to warn of potential threats. OPTEX LiDAR sensor integration with RSA module Some airports have found the level of information generated by the perimeter security systems quite challenging to deal with and they wanted to decrease the number of events so operators could focus on what was critical. The Airport development team at Genetec integrated the OPTEX LiDAR sensor into their Restricted Security Area (RSA) Surveillance module, an extension of the Genetec Security Center platform with the purpose to unify data from the sensor and camera to present more meaningful information to the operators.  Restricted Security Area Surveillance module The RSA module has been designed specifically with a view to providing wide area protection The RSA module has been designed specifically with a view to providing wide area protection and integrating with wide area surveillance technology, including radar, fiber optic and laser detection devices. The solution allows security staff to determine the level of threat for each area, map them, and utilize OPTEX technologies to identify and locate quickly and precisely the point of intrusion. For instance, with Fiber optic fence sensor, zones can be 100m-200m long and will identify people cutting through a fence, crawling under or climbing over. Newer fiber technologies provide point location. Another way to pin-point exact intruder location is with OPTEX LiDAR technologies or with Radar. ‘Fuse’ data into a single event A particularly intelligent feature of the system is its ability to ‘fuse’ data (known as ‘target fusion’) coming from multiple sources and confirm an event as a single (i.e. the same) activity rather than a multiple threat. For instance, using the X&Y coordinates provided by OPTEX REDSCAN sensors, RSA allows to map exactly the path of the intruders or moving vehicles, fuses the path from one camera to the other and considers it as one event, one target and tracks it precisely on the map. Intelligent Tracking and event categorization This gives a more meaningful picture to the operator and presents events in a unified and intelligent way. This helps support the security team in making the right decisions. The deeper integration of OPTEX’s technologies into Genetec’s RSA platform enables intelligent tracking and event categorization, making it a very precise security system for airports.

Leonardo’s helicopter rescue and law enforcement fleet grows stronger in the country adding further AW119s to the AW109s and AW139s already used by other agencies. The AW119Kx helicopters are expected to progressively arrive in Brazil to carry out a range of roles including transport, rescue, emergency medical service, firefighting, surveillance and law enforcement. Nearly 190 Leonardo helicopters fly in Brazil today performing a range of roles including corporate/private transport, law enforcement, public services, offshore transport, and naval applications, supported by a growing level of localized maintenance services. Over 350 AW119 helicopters have been ordered by over 130 customers in 40 countries, many of them for law enforcement, rescue, public service and military tasks. Emergency medical service Leonardo announced that the Polícia Rodoviária Federal (PRF) of Brazil will introduce into service six AW119Kx single engine helicopters. The first aircraft is expected to be introduced in Brazil beginning next year, with the delivery of the remainder helicopters to the operator planned to be followed shortly after. The AW119Kxs will be operated by the Air Operations Division (DOA) from its bases in the five regions of Brazil The AW119Kxs will be operated by the Air Operations Division (DOA) from its bases in the five regions of Brazil to perform a range of missions including transport, rescue, emergency medical service, firefighting, surveillance and law enforcement. The selection of the AW119Kx by the PRF was made following a rigorous assessment of technical capabilities to best meet the law enforcement agency’s needs. Public service operators The handover of these helicopters will further expand the fleet of Leonardo helicopters used by law enforcement, rescue and public service operators across Brazil which already includes the AW119 single engine type in addition to the AW109 light twin and AW139 intermediate twin models. The helicopters will feature an advanced customized configuration including, among others, a Garmin G1000NXi glass cockpit, an infrared capable electro-optics system, rescue hoist, cargo hook, bambi bucket to counter fires, rappelling kit on both sides for special forces operations, advanced communication systems. Law enforcement To date there are over 190 Leonardo helicopters of various types operating in Brazil performing many roles including: corporate/private transport, law enforcement, public services, offshore transport, and naval applications. As the success of Leonardo’s product grows further, the company is committed to further strengthening its existing level of localized services with the establishment of a new regional support center, run by Leonardo do Brasil, in Itapevi, 30 km from São Paulo whose groundbreaking was celebrated in February. The new support center will expand the services already provided by the existing facility headquartered in São Paulo. Enhanced situational awareness Over 350 AW119 helicopters have been ordered by over 130 customers in 40 countries Leonardo is committed to serving and protecting communities around the world, contributing to their sustainable growth by leading in next generation technologies. Partnering with Governments, private organizations and industries for the best security and safety capabilities is a cornerstone of Leonardo’s Be Tomorrow 2030 Strategic Plan. The AW119Kx is one of the best in class single engine helicopter today available in the market, featuring a state-of-the-art avionics system for enhanced situational awareness, mission effectiveness and safety. The AW119Kx has a large cabin which is able to accommodate up to six passengers and redundancy of all critical systems that are typically available on twin engine aircraft, ensuring outstanding reliability and safety. Public service agencies The AW119Kx is perfectly suited to perform many roles including EMS, law enforcement, utility, firefighting, passenger transport, training and government/military duties. Over 350 AW119 helicopters have been ordered by over 130 customers in 40 countries. A number of law enforcement, public service agencies or armed forces around the world have chosen or are already using the AW119 in Brazil, USA, Chile, Mexico, Ecuador, Portugal, Finland, Latvia to name a few. A variant of the AW119 was selected by the United States Navy in January to train the country’s next-generation of naval aviators.

FLIR PT Series cameras were used in a surveillance project to detect and monitor illegal fishing and poaching activities along the Spanish Galician coast. The FLIR thermal imaging cameras combined with maritime video analytics from Gradiant were ideal for spotting illegal vessels on a 24/7 basis and at a long range. The vastness of the Galician coastline and the multitude of fishing and farming activities call for a more automated surveillance approach. Fishing, shellfish harvesting, and marine aquaculture - mainly mussel farming in inshore waters are important economic activities in Galicia (northwest of Spain). Local public authorities strictly control these activities to prevent exploitation, fish stock depletion and resulting economical losses. They are fighting a constant battle against this unfair and illegal competition that affects thousands of professionals who make a living from the fishing and seafood industry. Challenges of coastal monitoring Illegal fishing and poaching has an enormous impact on the environment and food safety Illegal fishing and poaching of seafood resources also has an enormous impact on the environment and food safety; especially during periods of toxic algal bloom (red tides), when fishing conditions are hazardous for public health. The detection of unauthorized fishing and shellfish harvesting is of paramount importance for the Galician authorities. However, monitoring and protecting all of Galicia’s inshore and offshore fisheries, shellfish harvesting areas, and marine aquaculture farms is a challenging task. Galicia has 1,200 km of coastline. Its protection involves the surveillance of activity in 122 ports, including around 5,000 fishing boats, 400 beaches dedicated to shellfish harvesting, and 47 mussel aquaculture farms, with a total of more than 3,000 bateas (floating mussel farms). Long-range thermal imaging Moreover, most illegal activity takes place at night, making it extra difficult for law enforcers to detect any type of vessel. The Galician climate does not help either. With an average of 128 days per year of rain, visibility conditions are usually not ideal for surveillance operations. Manned surveillance patrols can only do so much; they are hindered by the climate and visibility conditions, making it impossible (from a practical and financial standpoint) for coast guards to cover the entire Galician coastline. In 2017, the Galician Coast Guard started a project to test video surveillance of the coastline based on thermal imaging cameras. The pilot included the use of FLIR’s PT Series multi-sensor camera, combined with maritime video analytics software from Gradiant (Pontevedra, Spain). Multi-sensor installation FLIR thermal images were enhanced by Gradiant’s intelligent video analytics software for maritime applications The multi-sensor installation was extensively tested on two different locations along the Galician coast. One set-up was used to monitor illegal vessels on coastal waters at short/medium range, while another set-up was used for long-range monitoring. The PT Series thermal cameras allowed the Galician Coast Guard to monitor the required area over a long range on a 24/7 basis, even at night and in adverse weather conditions. In addition, the FLIR thermal images were enhanced by Gradiant’s intelligent video analytics software for maritime applications. This software is specifically adapted for monitoring coastal environments and allowed the coast guard to detect, track and geo-localise people and vessels, including small wooden and plastic boats. Visible-light camera The software enabled the thermal cameras to detect objects and people despite adverse maritime conditions, such as high waves, low contrast due to low light, fog and rain, reflections on the sea surface, camera vibrations, and the presence of distractors, such as birds and vessel wakes. The FLIR PT Series is a high-performance multi-sensor pan/tilt security camera, incorporating an uncooled thermal camera with sensitivity of <35mK and a visible-light camera with 36x optical zoom. While the thermal camera is used to detect threats over a long range based on their heat signatures, the visible-light camera can be used for verification and identification. Long-range surveillance The requirements for this long-range application were extremely challenging for any thermal camera" “FLIR is the reference for long-range surveillance applications with thermal imaging,” says José Antonio Rodríguez, Head of Video Analytics at Gradiant. “The thermal performance of the camera and the fact that this technology is easy to set up makes it ideal for this type of application. In addition, FLIR supported us from the start for lens selection, calibration of the system and much more.” “The requirements for this long-range application were extremely challenging for any thermal camera,” says Nikitas Koutsourais, Product Marketing Manager at FLIR Systems. “Thanks to the FLIR PT Series’ unique thermal sensitivity of less than 35mK, we could provide the best image performance in the market.” IP video streaming Two different configurations were used in this application. The long-range surveillance station used a FLIR PT-606 camera, and was able to detect a rubber inflatable boat at 4,000m. Despite its narrow field of view, this camera allowed for wide coverage thanks to the high-precision pan/tilt unit. The camera was able to sweep a wide field of view span in a pre-programmed sequence of pan/tilt presets. The port surveillance station used a PT-625, offering a good compromise between detection range and field of view with a single pan/tilt preset. The integration of the video analytics software with the camera was easy thanks to IP video streaming and the camera’s ONVIF compliant interfaces for pan/tilt control. Long-range surveillance typically requires the use of lenses with a narrow field of view, which is a problem when you want to monitor wide areas. Coastal protection applications The FLIR thermal cameras provided the Galician coastguard with increased situational awareness However, the video analytics from Gradiant was able to take advantage of the Preset Sequencing mode of the FLIR PT Series. This allowed the coastguard to cover a wide field of view with a single camera and to perform video analysis on each pan/tilt preset. The FLIR thermal cameras provided the Galician coastguard with increased situational awareness and allowed them to respond much quicker to illegal fishing activities. The pilot project was performed in a realistic surveillance environment along the Galician coast and generated very positive results. The combination of a multi-sensor system with Gradiant’s maritime video analytics proved to be effective to deal with the intricate Galician coast lines and a lack of open view. In addition, this technology combination is a cost-effective alternative, making automated surveillance applications accessible for fish farm companies worldwide. Extremely rugged systems Finally, the PT-Series are extremely rugged systems, which makes them ideal for coastal surveillance, especially in an extremely humid environment such as the Atlantic coast of Spain. The system’s vital core is well protected against dust and water ingress, and complies with IP66 requirements.

Burglaries from outdoor ‘smash and grab’ have been costing retailers millions of dollars of loss. In order to detect if someone is trying to penetrate retail store buildings, retailers need to deploy a detection system that triggers activity and activate cameras and authorities. Redscan RLS02020S detectors Utilizing the OPTEX Redscan RLS02020S vertical mode detection with Genetec RSA allowed the national retail company to achieve just this. OPTEX installed first 12 stores for a total of 105 RLS-2020S detectors for the initial project. Redscan covered the sides of the buildings as well as key areas of the roofs where needed. It was integrated into the Genetec RSA plugin that unifies OPTEX Redscan detectors with cameras creating full control of video recording and security events.  Enhancing retail security Next opportunities are for installing RLS-2020S at 100’s of stores across the United States in 2020-2021. Due to the success of Redscan, the national systems integrator is now introducing the value of this application for other large retail end users.

The Italian town of Schio has bolstered its video surveillance system with 14 new digital cameras that will cover as big an area as possible. There has been 75,000 Euro worth of investment, in an effort to protect those who want to feel safer at home. Thanks to a pilot project that saw a collaboration between the local council, Videotec, Pasubio Tecnologia (a company that offers public administration digital services) and the local police force, not only will the field of surveillance be widened but it is the best technology available that has been installed and tested. Supplied by Videotec, these new devices don’t just provide daytime surveillance: they also allow for monitoring at night, thanks to the in-built infrared. They also come with Full HD sensors, 30x zoom and a wiper for cleaning the lens. In addition, they rotate, allowing for full 360° recording. Video surveillance solutions The pilot project also allowed Videotec to use the spaces made available to the town to test new devices and experiment with new video surveillance solutions designed specifically for cities. The Mayor of Schio said: “We came to notice that the town’s surveillance system was inadequate: some areas were not covered and many cameras were not modern enough, providing pictures that were difficult to use." The system will be upgraded through the industrial region, chiefly to prevent acts of vandalism" "We tackled this problem immediately because the security of our citizens, our businesses and their capital are of the utmost importance. Through this project, we’ll replace two obsolete systems and add 12 cameras, giving us 45 in total with which to monitor the town. In particular, the system will be upgraded through the industrial region and other sensitive areas, chiefly to prevent acts of vandalism.” fiber optic infrastructure Laura Locci, President of Pasubio Tecnologia, said “Video surveillance is important, but it’s only effective if the system works properly. Thanks to our fiber optic infrastructure, the digital technology of the new devices, connected to the monitoring station that has been installed at the HQ of the local police force, offers the very best performance for the whole system.” Loris Revrenna, Deputy Commander of the Local Police Force continued: “The knowledge that there are recording systems in place is already proving to be an excellent deterrent. Increasingly, video surveillance is a tool for investigation as it allows the perpetrators of crimes to be tracked. Previously, they probably would have gone unpunished. It, therefore, allows us to take preventative and repressive action - an increasingly indispensable solution.” Outdoor video surveillance systems Alessio Grotto, President of Videotec, concluded: “For us, collaborating with the municipality of Schio is a moment of pride. We are a company of Schio, with activities in fifty countries around the world, and we specialize in the creation of outdoor video surveillance systems that are resistant to extreme conditions, both weather-related and environmental. At sites made available by the town, we will be able to experiment with new products and invest in a product that’s dedicated exclusively to city surveillance.”

Multiple electrical substations in the Mid-West United States are operated by a large electric power holding company. Due to the high price of copper, the customer faced the growing issue of theft and damage at multiple sites. The large amount of copper theft at the electrical substations site was causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage, repairs, and down time, while creating unsafe grounding conditions for the electrical equipment. Countering copper theft at site Changing site conditions, large perimeters and the inability to trench, along with remote location of the substations were all challenges that needed to be addressed when deciding on an appropriate security solution to counter the rise in cases of copper theft. An integrator was selected who then teamed up with Optex to create a reliable, effective security solution. The team decided on protecting multiple areas on the properties by taking a layered security approach. The solution would meet the customer's needs by protecting the sites from copper theft, while also eliminating the chance and liability of injury or death from trespassers. SL-350QFRi photoelectric detectors installed The battery-powered perimeter beam system allowed the integrator to set up the units without running power to them At the first area of intrusion, both the existing perimeter fence and automatic gate systems were reinforced using pairs of the SL-350QFRi, a battery-powered, wireless 350ft. point-to-point photoelectric detector. The battery-powered perimeter beam system allowed the integrator to set up the units without running power to them, eliminating the need to trench or run cables. SIP series and HX series passive infrared detectors For the interior locations on the electrical substations site, mid-range SIP series and short range HX series passive infrared detectors were installed to offer the customer a stable back-up to the perimeter system. Because the customer operated their own central monitoring station, all detectors on the property were set up to trigger PTZ cameras that were fixed within the sensor's area of detection. This allowed the monitoring station to capture and record any intrusions on the property and take the necessary action before any theft or vandalism occurred. Enhanced perimeter protection solution The end user now maintains a secure perimeter and site that detects intruders and helps to prevent possible injury. With the system in place, the customer has multiple levels of protection and can respond with quick efficiency to catch criminal activity.

The ability to treat patients in a secure environment is a base requirement of hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Whether facilities are large or small, security challenges abound, including perimeter security, access control of sensitive areas, video surveillance, and even a long list of cyber-risks. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of hospitals and the healthcare industry?

There’s a huge cloud hanging over the physical security market, but in a good way. Cloud-based systems, whether for video, access control or another category, are on the verge of taking the industry by storm. The benefits of that mythical “cloud” are well-known, or certainly well-touted, in the market. It’s almost as if the word “cloud” has become a buzzword that can mean different things, or at least whatever the customer wants it to mean (as long as they buy!). We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable to define the term more specifically, and to comment on the industry’s understanding of the terminology. Specifically, we asked: Define what we mean by “the cloud.” Is the definition universally understood in the market?