HD CCTV

LILIN Americas, an entity of Taiwan based IP video manufacturer Merit LILIN, has further strengthened its line of IP cameras with the MR832 bullet camera. Designed to help security professionals easily deploy an outdoor surveillance system, the MR832 features a 4mm fixed lens with an IP66 environment rating, an operating range of -40° to 122°F, along with 30M IR LED illumination and Day/Night imaging. "As IP technology has evolved, so have the expectations of our customers," said Joe Cook, VP/GM of LILIN Americas. "They want IP outdoor cameras that are easy to install, configure and maintain, that integrate seamlessly, offer high resolution HD images, even in complete darkness, and are competitively priced. The new MR832 delivers these capabilities, and much more." LILIN MR832 IP cameras feature 2D wide dynamic range, which provides accurate video capture in high-contrast lighting 3D Noise Reduction For Maximum Clarity LILIN MR832 IP cameras feature 2D wide dynamic range, which provides accurate video capture in high-contrast lighting and use 3D Noise Reduction for maximum clarity in low light conditions. Energy-efficient IR LEDs automatically illuminate scenes in complete darkness for discovering subjects at a range of up to 30 meters (98 ft.). To save installation time, the MR832 camera is designed with a multi-angle adjustable wall/ceiling mount bracket for flexibility and ease of use. In addition, the camera supports ONVIF Profile S and is powered by either PoE or DC12V. The MR832 delivers full 1080P HD resolution at 30 FPS while being remarkably compact and lightweight for wall or ceiling mount applications.

Arxys announces that they are now a verified Milestone System Builder. The Arxys Shield | Key NVRs with built-in GPUs deliver impressive performance improvements at lower cost for organizations looking to implement AI-enhanced video surveillance, video motion detection and video analytics. With Arxys Shield | Key NVRs in the System Builder program, Milestone channel partners and customers will benefit from verified and certified hardware configurations with Milestone XProtect Inside. The Arxys Shield | Key NVRs are fully Milestone Certified and featured in the newly launched Milestone Marketplace. The Milestone Certified performance report proved that these new NVRs deliver truly breakthrough performance achieving maximum total throughput of 15,000 frames per second and over 1,600 Mb/s bandwidth. Advanced video analytics and the Milestone XProtect Smart Search deliver intelligent security and surveillance“The System Builder Program is all about ease of deployment. Customers can now get the XProtect experience on their hardware of choice in a few clicks,” says Jeremy Scott, Strategic Alliance Partner Program Manager – Americas, Milestone Systems. “Customers are also able to easily enter the expanding world of intelligent video solutions by tapping into the rich spectrum of add-ons from the global Milestone open platform community.” Intelligent Security And Surveillance Arxys’ GPU-based, Activated Hardware Acceleration for video encoding and decoding, allows the Shield | Key NVRs to deliver up to 50% higher camera counts on the same hardware platform. This means that system integrators and security dealers can give their customers a single Milestone Certified NVR system that can record up to 300 full HD 1080P cameras at 25 frames per second using server-side video motion detection (VMD) with up to 504TBs of video retention. Advanced video analytics and the Milestone XProtect Smart Search deliver the intelligent security and surveillance that modern organizations are demanding. Arxys has developed a unique tuning and optimization stack for their Shield | Key systems that delivers 30% higher performance on common off the shelf hardware. Massive Storage Capacity All Shield | Key systems use enterprise class hard drives and hardware RAID to deliver 2x faster data accessibilityThe Shield | Key family includes two workgroup desktop models: the T4 and the longer retention time T8 (Both support up to 64 cameras w/ VMD) starting at only $2,995 MSRP. For larger security installations, the three rack mount models deliver massive storage capacity, impressive performance and advanced data protection. The R12 (200 cameras w/ VMD), and the R36 (300 cameras w/ VMD) bring enterprise-class protection and performance at working class prices starting at only $6,359 MSRP. All Shield | Key systems use enterprise class hard drives and hardware RAID to deliver 2x faster data accessibility and 2.5x higher reliability. Arxys will have their Shield | Key NVRs powering the Boring Lab pod in the Milestone Systems booth at ISC West in Las Vegas, NV April 10-12. Easy Deployment Of Milestone VMS “Security integrators can take advantage of our Activated Hardware Acceleration to deliver substantial performance and protection improvements that we have engineered into the Arxys Shield Key products.” says Deborah Inman, President, Arxys. “With our 25 years of experience delivering world-class service and support, our security partners can ensure successful installations that come in under-time and under-budget.” With XProtect Essential+ preloaded on the hardware, the System Builder Program enables easy deployment of the Milestone award-winning video management software (VMS) with just a few clicks, or rapid upgrade to one of the more advanced offerings through a Milestone channel partner. Milestone customers get access to the many software integration options from Milestone Solution Partners And with Milestone XProtect inside, on-site setup time is cut to mere minutes, so security technicians can get back out in the field faster. Milestone supports the VMS ensuring its reliable operation and flexible maintenance experience, while Arxys as a System Builder leverages their existing support structures. Accelerating The Community In addition to the XProtect functionality, Milestone customers get access to the many software integration options from Milestone Solution Partners and the wide range of more than 7,500 supported camera models and other hardware devices. The hardware partners in the Milestone System Builder Program, who ship products with the Milestone VMS software inside, are able to design hardware to fit specific surveillance market segments, and benefit from the opportunity to tap into the IoT and Artificial Intelligence market through the solution power of the Milestone community. Milestone customers will benefit from a wider range of tested and validated hardware with XProtect inside, which contributes to an optimal user experience, system performance and return on investment.

At ISC West, Bosch will showcase how its offerings deliver value to integrators and end users by enhancing security, improving efficiency, and solving common challenges. Visitors to the booth will see intelligent solutions for vertical markets and new products and services that make systems easier to install and manage. “Gaining efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing profits are challenges for integrators and end users alike," said Brian Wiser, President of Bosch Security and Safety Systems, North America. "With technology that is faster to install and easier to integrate, and services that simplify system management, we're helping integrators serve more customers in less time. Seamless integration and built-in intelligence also combine to empower integrators to create smart, customized solutions that substantially improve security and offer clear business advantages beyond security. As a result, there is significant value for integrators and end users that choose Bosch for their security, safety, and communications needs." Wireless Remote Commissioning At ISC West, Bosch will launch a new fixed dome camera series with wireless remote commissioning capabilities At ISC West, Bosch will launch a new fixed dome camera series with wireless remote commissioning capabilities that reduce installation and set-up time by up to 75 percent. The FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i cameras offer an innovative product concept that enables set-up in only three convenient steps: installing the mounting bracket, connecting the cables, and attaching the camera module. Innovative wireless remote commissioning enables installers to work smarter. Currently, to reach cameras, technicians must repeatedly climb ladders, or a lift needs to be rented. With this new camera series, commissioning can be done wirelessly or remotely with no need for ladders or lifts. A tablet or smartphone with the Bosch Project Assistant app can be used to adjust the pan, tilt, roll, and zoom to set the required field of view without touching the camera or lens. If any changes are required post-installation – to accommodate a different store layout or high-risk area – this can be done remotely to save time, effort, and resources. i Series Intelligent IP Cameras Bosch’s portfolio of intelligent ‘i’ Series cameras featuring built-in video analytics is also expanding. In addition to the existing IP 4000i, 5000i, 6000i, 7000i, 9000i and new FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i cameras, Bosch will preview MIC IP starlight and MIC IP ultra 7100i cameras. These rugged cameras are made with anti-corrosive metal and can function at temperatures ranging from -40 to +140 degrees Fahrenheit. The MIC IP ultra 7100i delivers 4K ultra HD resolution for mission critical applications, such as city and highway surveillance, making them ideal for monitoring highways, bridges, ports, perimeters, and more. A new firmware release for the IP 7000i, 8000i and 9000i cameras will also introduce Camera Trainer functionality to "i" Series cameras with on-board Intelligent Video Analytics. Camera Trainer brings machine learning to Bosch IP cameras, enabling integrators to tailor them to detect the objects and situations that matter most. The ability to identify user-defined objects and situations can be combined with the existing alarm rules and object filters of Intelligent Video Analytics for even more flexibility and accuracy. It substantially improves the level of security for people and property and opens up new possibilities for customized applications. For example, it could be used to separate vehicles clustered in front of traffic lights or to determine how long a vehicle has been parked in a bay. With Camera Trainer, video cameras can be taught to recognize and detect stationary objects or certain situations instead of being triggered by motion alone. Installer Services Portal Bosch will also preview an improved Installer Services Portal to help dealers and integrators better manage security devices, services, and invoices Bosch will also preview an improved Installer Services Portal to help dealers and integrators better manage security devices, services, and invoices. The mobile-ready site offers single sign-on for secure and easy access to Bosch communication services, including cellular data plans for control panel communications and cloud connectivity for remote programming and end user app connectivity. With the portal, dealers and integrators gain enhanced reporting for service billing by device, secure online invoice payment capabilities, and the ability to customize access to technical or billing information by assigning employee roles within an account. In addition, a new Installer Services Portal companion app will make it easier for dealers and integrators to add devices to their portal accounts by simply scanning a product's QR code with the app. Bosch Security Control Panels ISC West attendees will also learn how Bosch security control panels, video systems and analytics, access control, and communications technology work together to deliver increased security, efficient monitoring and control, automated audio announcements, and more. To demonstrate the full power of these solutions, Bosch will simulate a retail store within its booth where visitors can experience how integrated solutions improve overall safety and security, reduce shrink, and help retailers improve merchandising and operations. For example, visitors can see how pressing a cashier station panic button connected to the Bosch G Series Control Panel will display an alarm and video in the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) as well as trigger the Telex Radio Dispatch system (IP-224) to issue an announcement on store personnel’s two-way radios. In addition, attendees can flip a switch to simulate a fire and experience how the AVIOTEC IP starlight 8000 camera uses video-based fire detection to quickly detect a fire before it spreads, while notifying store personnel. Parking Lot Video Monitoring Attendees will also learn how to improve management of outdoor areas, such as parking lots and loading docks, and to identify high-risk situations Attendees will also learn how to improve management of outdoor areas, such as parking lots and loading docks, and to identify high-risk situations like loitering using security and communications technology. For example, they will see how a camera can be used as a sensor to detect a delivery truck approaching a loading dock bay. The camera can trigger the warehouse's Bosch public address system to issue an audio notification that sends staff to a specific bay to receive the delivery. If the dock door is left open, the Bosch G Series Control Panel will issue an alarm and trigger a different audio notification to prompt staff to close the door. Bosch loudspeakers installed throughout the store, outdoor area, and booth can be used for both announcements and background music. Designed to work together, Bosch systems make it easier for integrators to implement customized solutions that provide significant benefits for their customers. Integrated systems are possible whether customers choose a complete Bosch solution or use software from other providers. Bosch products are compatible with solutions from a range of industry partners.

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.”

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.

Rasilient Systems, Inc., the pioneer in video surveillance systems purposely architected for IP video recording, has been approved by Milestone Systems to join the System Builder Program. The partnership provides Rasilient the option to deliver its purpose-built video surveillance system hardware pre-installed with XProtect video management software (VMS) for installations with 100 or more cameras. The program enables hardware manufacturers like Rasilient to ship their server and storage solutions preloaded with the XProtect Essential+ VMS. This enables easy deployment of the Milestone award-winning VMS with just a few clicks, or rapid upgrade to one of the more advanced editions through a Milestone channel partner. Forensic-Grade IP Video Surveillance Rasilient’s VMS agnostic technologies allow users to achieve forensic-grade IP video surveillance“We’re excited to join Milestone’s System Builder Program as we know it will greatly benefit our customers seeking a comprehensive video surveillance solution,” said Sean Chang, CEO of Rasilient Systems. “Rasilient and Milestone are trusted leaders in video surveillance and this method of delivering both hardware and software at one time provides our customers a powerful product with convenience.” Rasilient develops and manufactures storage and server products that are architected specifically for video surveillance. Rasilient’s award-winning VMS agnostic technologies allow users to achieve forensic-grade IP video surveillance for various applications without any recording gaps. A longtime Milestone Systems partner, Rasilient currently has two products that can pre-ship with the Milestone VMS: the ApplianceStor AS85R and the PixelStor 5000 series. Support For 150 Cameras Rasilient’s ApplianceStor AS85R is a modular server system which packs four high performance server modules in a single 2U rack mount platform, providing unmatched performance and density. Each module can be used to integrate VMS, failover, archive, administration, and supports up to 150 cameras operating at 4 Mbps. The AS85R significantly saves cost over a separate VMS server, reduces cabling, and eliminates the ordeal of integrating VMS, OS, commodity server, and storage. The PS5000 series provides unified storage for forensic-grade video recording and AI analytics metadata The PS5000 series provides unified storage for forensic-grade video recording and AI analytics metadata. It’s the first storage system to provide uninterrupted video surveillance recording while simultaneously providing metadata to analytics servers and can store over 1000 TB. The PS5000 series is known for its patented surveillance-optimized cache technology that can scale the video recording to thousands of HD cameras without dropping a single frame of video. Applications include high-performance megapixel cameras, large video surveillance installations, and analytics metadata storage.

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.

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.

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

Safety and Security Things GmbH (SAST) will be both a first-time exhibitor at ISC West and also feature a larger booth – 1,800 square feet. The Bosch startup is looking to make a big splash in its first-time appearance at the largest security trade show in the United States. The International Security Conference & Exposition (ISC West) will be held April 10-12 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. Founded in September 2018 and based in Munich, Germany, SAST is building a new Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem for the security and safety industry, including an app store, an open and secure camera operating system, a software developer environment, and a portal for providing knowledge and functionalities tailored to integrators. SAST’s Open IoT Platform The open IoT platform is based on an open standardized operating system for video security cameras The open IoT platform is based on an open standardized operating system for video security cameras that creates a common basis for innovation and growth for the security industry. Apps built on SAST will enable airports, restaurants, stadiums and other facilities to transform security cameras into smart devices. The first partners are already developing apps based on the SAST ecosystem. “We will bring all the partners of our platform together and will showcase the first applications already realised on the platform,” says Nikolas Mangold-Takao, SAST Vice President of Marketing and Product Management. “In order to showcase this effectively at ISC West, we will create a space to demonstrate solutions effectively. At the same time, we are using the booth as our meeting space and will create a collaborative environment for our partners and all participants.” IoT And Access Control  “We want to ensure that all visitors of our booth (No. 10073) are getting to see first-hand solutions which are already realised based on first apps and cameras using our Operating System,” he adds. “We also want to demonstrate the benefits of the SAST platform for solution developers, integrators and manufacturers.” SAST is about bringing different players from the industry together in order to deliver better solutions" SAST will be looking for measurable results at ISC West. “On the one hand, we measure results by hard facts, such as the number of new partners who will join us and how satisfied our current ones are with the output,” says Mangold-Takao. “On the other hand, direct feedback from visitors at the booth, especially professionals from our industry and end-customers, is also extremely important to us, and we will measure it. SAST is about bringing different players from the industry together in order to deliver better solutions.” Openpath Access Solution Another new exhibitor with a relatively large booth is Openpath, whose booth (No. 23051) will be 1,200 square feet. Openpath Access combines cloud-based software and sleek hardware with an app to enable hands-free access to an office using a smartphone that doesn’t need to leave your pocket.  Although large for first-time exhibitors, the Openpath and SAST booths fall squarely in the “medium range” of overall exhibit sizes at ISC West – larger than the smallest 100-square-feet exhibits typical for many first-time exhibitors, but still smaller than the largest booths such as Hanwha Techwin America (5,500 square feet). In addition to the new exhibitors on the main show floor, the Emerging Technology Zone, located in the Venetian Ballroom, will welcome new startups in the security marketplace.

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

Avigilon Corp. is a relatively young company in the security market and has come a long way since it was founded in 2004. From an early focus on high-megapixel imaging, the company’s end-to-end solutions have evolved to include access control, video analytics and now artificial intelligence (AI). A reflection of how far Avigilon has come in a short time is the recent $1 billion acquisition of the Canadian company by Motorola Solutions. Avigilon’s President and COO, James Henderson, is also on the young side – age 39 to be exact. He has been recognized as recipient of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 Award for 2018. Henderson has also been a key figure in the transition to ownership by Motorola.Motorola has been an amazing partner and lived up to what they said. You will see an incredible growth trajectory for our organization.” Partnership With Motorola Yields Growth That transition was completed in March. “There’s a million ways these types of transitions could go,” says Henderson. “Motorola has been an amazing partner and lived up to what they said. You will see an incredible growth trajectory for our organization.” “Motorola likes to push the pace of technology,” adds Henderson, “and they have allowed us to continue as an independent business, focusing on sales, synergies and growth. They have given us the resources we need to make it happen even faster.” With the acquisition, Avigilon is also well positioned to benefit from Motorola’s larger global presence and familiar brand name. Specifically, Motorola has already been able to propose Avigilon systems for some larger citywide solutions and government projects.Henderson was selected for the honor from more than 800 nominees by an independent, cross-national Advisory Board Henderson says the Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 Award reflects Avigilon’s accomplishments as well as his own. “It’s a huge honor to be selected as part of the 40 Under 40 group,” said Henderson. “From my perspective, I think of it as a tribute to the hard work of the Avigilon team. I haven’t done it on my own, but as part of working with and leading a world-class business.” The award shines light on how Avigilon is pushing technology to its limits, says Henderson. “It will help the world take notice of what we are doing and what we can accomplish,” he says. “It also brings positive attention to the great things we are doing in the security industry as a whole.” Canada's Top 40 Under 40 Henderson was selected for the honor from more than 800 nominees, all aged under 40, by an independent, cross-national Advisory Board based on four criteria: vision and innovation; leadership; impact and influence; and social responsibility. The award recognises Henderson’s strategic vision that has successfully driven Avigilon’s top-line revenue growth and profitability. Henderson says the security industry too often is associated with negative events in the public’s mind. Negative events are when discussions of security systems often come into play. “We want to shine a positive light on the industry as a whole, and the things we are doing to make people safer in the world,” he says. Avigilon’s fast growth has been built on creating new technologies and presenting them to customers as end-to-end solutions Henderson says Avigilon’s fast growth has been built on creating new technologies and presenting them to customers as end-to-end solutions. “We have developed a culture at Avigilon of people who want to be the best, who are proud of the company, and the things we are doing,” he says. “That pride helps them be motivated even further.” “Whether it’s operational challenges or security and safety, we provide end users with the result they need,” says Henderson. “We want to continue to own the customer experience as a complete solutions provider and to build on that with additional services and technologies, ranging from devices to decisions to actions.” [Avigilon] want to continue to own the customer experience as a complete solutions provider" Utilizing Integrator Partnerships A key component of the “customer experience” is the Avigilon integrator channel. “We have been selective with who we partner with and support them through training, sales and engineering support,” Henderson says. “We can be right there by their side with large projects, and also support them and ensure that their brand promotes the customer experience.” As Avigilon’s technologies are deployed to address a broader spectrum of customer challenges – operational applications as well as security and safety – the integrator community has helped to lead the way. “We are already seeing integrators start to evolve and develop these new uses cases, such as increasing operational efficiencies, and to optimize solutions for various vertical markets,” Henderson says. Avigilon has consistently emphasized an end-to-end solution approach, even as others in the industry opted for a more product-centric approach and depending on open systems to create solutions using components from multiple manufacturers. Although open systems are still dominant, there has been a noticeable trend of more companies in recent years adopting Avigilon’s end-to-end approach.Among the challenges, Henderson says meeting the customer’s need to manage an overload of information is the largest What Next For Avigilon? Like other companies, Avigilon faces several challenges in the market, including a need to ensure their solutions are compatible with customers’ information technology (IT) environments, and to provide encryption and address other cybersecurity needs. But among the challenges, Henderson says meeting the customer’s need to manage an overload of information is the largest. Avigilon addresses that challenge with newer AI and deep learning systems in addition to video analytics that sift through the overabundance of data and direct the operator’s focus to what they need to know. What’s next for Avigilon? “We will be looking to expand our devices that digitize the physical world,” says Henderson. “Cameras are one way to digitise the physical world, but there can be a multitude of other devices, too. We will also be looking at more cloud solutions, more AI and analytics and new tools to dive through that mountain of information. And it will all be bundled into end-to-end solutions.”

Comelit 4 camera wireless CCTV system has been selected on site at the iconic, Grade II listed Chichester Cathedral, to protect the retail area and provide 24x7 high-quality monitoring capability and extra peace of mind for staff. Wireless CCTV surveillance This magnificent Cathedral has stood at the center of Chichester for over 900 years. With unique architecture from each century of its life, this Cathedral is both ancient and modern, where original medieval features sit alongside world famous contemporary artworks. Any works needed to consider the sensitivities of working in such a historic building. Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image A representative from Chichester Cathedral commented, “When it came to upgrading CCTV for the retail area, we contacted Envisage Technology Ltd who recommended Comelit’s 4 camera wireless CCTV system. It has proven to be the perfect solution, with the system proving simple to install. Staff now have access to monitors by the till points that also act as a significant visual deterrent. The high-quality images available add extra peace of mind.” Four camera wireless CCTV Kevin Brown, Managing Director, Envisage Technology added, “Chichester Cathedral is one of the most prestigious visitor sites in West Sussex. Comelit’s wireless CCTV specification, coming from such a renowned brand, provided the necessary infrastructure to embrace the need for delicate installation, minimizing the need to run cables, and still provide the high-quality footage. We can support the ongoing maintenance process to ensue volunteers, customers and staff are kept safe and secure.” Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image. Installed outside of opening hours to avoid disruption to the retail environment, monitors were positioned directly by the till points, enabling staff to have full visual access of the complete area at all times.  Retail surveillance Tim Edmonds, Comeilt CCTV Manager concluded, “The retail area, established in such a significant Cathedral is a great example of how Comelit’s wireless CCTV system can be used to protect any environment.”  “Working with Envisage, the solution was presented as a simple, yet effective option, installed with absolutely no impact on the surrounding building. The result is a powerful visual deterrent and peace of mind that staff in store, and in back offices can keep an eye on operations quickly and easily, on a 24x7 basis.”

Faced with a number of security challenges and planned future expansion, a major airport decided it was time to implement a scalable security surveillance solution. Let’s take a look at how to manage such a scenario to ensure the selected solution provides scalability for growth. With the existing proprietary solution at the airport locked down to one manufacturer and littered with issues resulting in high maintenance and expansion costs, a new solution was required that would allow the airport to scale its surveillance solution in line with future expansion plans. Difficult in identifying people The low-resolution analog cameras made it difficult to identify people during incidents Not only was the existing surveillance solution analog and proprietary, it wasn’t intuitive and was difficult for operators to use. There were several ‘satellite’ security installations scattered in the various terminal buildings that weren’t viewable in the centralized Control Room which meant extra operators were required. The low-resolution analog cameras made it difficult to identify people during incidents and coupled with the lack of video coverage, it gave operators poor situational awareness. Reviewing past events with the existing VMS was difficult as playback wasn’t synchronized and, without bookmarks, it was time-consuming to find important events. The combination of multiple terminal buildings and the centralized Analog Architecture resulted in bottlenecks and latency issues as all processing must pass through the centralized server. There was also no redundancy so if there was any failure in the system, the Control Room would no longer have the capability to view live or recorded video. Additionally, as the system was locked down to one manufacturer and the whole system had to be hardwired to the centralized server, there were very expensive expansion costs. Addressing security and scalability concerns New NVRs were specified to cope with the increase in camera streams and an extra NVR for redundancy and failoverThe required solution had multiple requirements to ensure that the existing issues were resolved and that the solution could scale with the planned expansion. With expansion planned to facilitate growing passenger numbers, an open IP based solution was specified to replace the existing analog solution to improve situational awareness, provide scalability and integrate with a number of other systems operating in the airport. The architecture needed to limit bottlenecks, reduce latency issues, provide redundancy advantages and be scalable to allow for multiple new terminal buildings to be connected with ease. New HD cameras were specified to improve image quality and coverage, with a Video Wall required in order to view and manage the increase in video streams in the centralized Control Room. New large capacity NVRs were also specified to cope with the increase in camera streams and an extra NVR for redundancy and failover. Distributed Architecture reduces data bottlenecks A solution with Distributed Architecture was chosen as it solved multiple issues with the existing solution and facilitated future expansion without the need for a centralized server. Distributed Architecture allows data to be kept close to where it is produced or needed. When cameras, surveillance workstations, NVRs, alarm servers, integration gateways, all participate in a Distributed Architecture, data bottlenecks are minimized as all processing doesn’t need to pass through a centralized server. Distributed Architecture provides a truly unlimited and scalable solution that can easily accommodate the largest airports in the world. Enhancing situational awareness Distributed Architecture enables future expansion as it can support thousands of cameras, workstations and NVRsDistributed Architecture minimized the existing bottlenecks, reduced latency, and provided higher availability and faster access to data. It also allowed all ‘satellite’ security installations to be viewed in the centralized Control Room enhancing situational awareness. New HD cameras were installed and due to the scalability of Distributed Architecture, future cameras can easily be connected when needed. Furthermore, the scalability of Distributed Architecture enabled the airport to build new terminal buildings and connect with ease to the security solution when ready. Distributed Architecture enables planned future expansion as it can support thousands of cameras, workstations and NVRs, dramatically reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). The scalability of Distributed Architecture allows the airport to continue with planned expansion and add a single camera/NVR or a whole new terminal when needed.

Westminster City Council is standardizing on Videalert’s hosted CCTV enforcement platform. The decision was taken after conducting a twelve-month pilot comparison exercise between Videalert, the market-leading supplier of unattended CCTV enforcement solutions, and the incumbent provider. Marston Holdings group companies Videalert and NSL were selected to deliver this solution after completing a comprehensive analysis across a wide range of enforcement activities including yellow box junctions, banned turns and restricted access. Videalert CCTV enforcement platform “The decision to extend the Videalert platform was taken after a number of successful deployments across the West End with high volume traffic and complex moving traffic scenarios. Videalert delivered the highest capture rates enabling us to meet our compliance objectives, a significantly higher level of performance compared with the previous manually-operated system, as well as providing the highest availability,” commented Darren Montague, Business Implementation Manager in Westminster City Council’s Parking Services team. Videalert is now the single platform standard for all CCTV enforcement throughout Westminster “The platform also delivers better value as future-proofing is built-in and additional camera assets and enforcement applications can be cost effectively added as required.” Videalert is now the single platform standard for all CCTV enforcement throughout Westminster. The latest Videalert ONVIF-compliant digital HD cameras are now used at these locations to capture high quality images which minimize discard-rates, increase productivity and help reduce the number of appeals. The cameras are also playing a key role in helping to deliver Westminster City Council’s joint strategy with TfL, which aims to improve public spaces by reducing traffic congestion and tackling poor air quality. The council hopes to extend the use of the Videalert platform to additional locations including the Oxford Street West scheme and a number of traffic exclusion zones around schools in Westminster. Traffic and parking management According to Mark Hoskin, Managing Director of NSL: “We are delighted to have been awarded this high profile contract as it shows how Videalert and NSL can jointly deliver complete solutions that streamline every aspect of the traffic and parking management process from enforcement and PCN processing through to collections. This unique, integrated approach not only removes the risk element when working with outside contractors, but also enables councils to increase efficiency and maximize compliance in short timeframes.” “The joint Videalert and NSL service proposition demonstrates how close collaboration between the public and private sector can deliver better outcomes. Improving traffic flows will help to reduce congestion and the corresponding air pollution whilst increasing road safety for the millions of people that visit the Westminster area,” added Tim Daniels, Sales and Marketing Director at Videalert. “It also shows how councils can extend enforcement to further improve compliance without incurring major additional capital expenditure.”

A Wisenet video surveillance system manufactured by Hanwha Techwin is being used to its full potential by the operators of the Audley End Miniature Railway in order to ensure that the 100,000 plus people who visit the Railway every year are able to safely enjoy all its facilities. Located close to Audley End House in Saffron Walden, Essex, the Miniature Railway, was built in 1964 by the then Lord Braybrooke as a hobby. It has since become a major tourist attraction with train enthusiasts able to enjoy steam and diesel train rides through the beautiful Audley End Estate Woodland designed by Capability Brown, while young visitors can venture through a ‘Fairy and Elf’ walk. IP Network Solution IP network-based Wisenet system is being used to keep a close eye on the trains moving around the 2.4 km track Originally installed as a replacement for an old analog CCTV system following a number of security incidents, the new IP network-based Wisenet system is now also being used to keep a close eye on the trains moving around the 2.4 kilometer track and visitor car parking areas. In addition, it is also helping with the management of the queues of people waiting to buy tickets and to ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations. The video surveillance system, comprising 14 Wisenet cameras and a Network Video Recorder (NVR), has been installed by IT infrastructure specialists, Eastern Voice and Data, who also designed and installed the Miniature Railway’s network and Wi-Fi. Wisenet cameras and NVR “We have previously installed Wisenet cameras for other clients and have been impressed with their robustness and reliability, as well as the quality of the captured images,” said Russell Marriott, Director of Norwich-based Eastern Voice and Data. “As a result, we were able to confidently recommend to Audley End Miniature Railway that all cameras should be selected from the Wisenet camera range. We then worked closely with the Hanwha Techwin pre-sales team to select the most appropriate camera model for each location.” Wisenet Q Series cameras Among the 14 cameras installed are 5 QNO-7030R Bullet and 6 QND-7010R Dome cameras Among the 14 cameras installed are 5 QNO-7030R Bullet and 6 QND-7010R Dome cameras. These are all able to capture 4 megapixel high definition images of objects regardless of the lighting conditions, with the help of built-in IR illumination. Part of the Wisenet Q camera series, the cameras also feature defocus, motion and tamper detection, hallway view and lens distortion correction, while support for Power over Ethernet (PoE) has negated the need for Eastern Voice and Data to have to provide separate power supplies and cabling to each camera location. Images captured from all the cameras are recorded and stored on a 16 channel Wisenet XRN-1610S NVR, which is equipped with a PoE switch. Wisenet Mobile App “Our old CCTV was well passed its ‘use-by’ date and lacked the functionality required to help us maintain a safe environment for our visitors and staff, as well as deter would be intruders and vandals,” said Bob Ottaway, General Manager of the Audley End Miniature Railway. “We are now able to closely monitor all activity throughout the site during opening hours, and with the help of the Wisenet Mobile App, we can also be remotely alerted via smartphones and tablets to any suspicious activity when we are closed.”

The American University of the Middle East (AUM) in Egaila is the largest private university in Kuwait. Its extensive campus is spread over 261,190 square meters of beautiful grounds, including academic buildings, technical labs, AUM library, AUM Sports Center, outdoor sports playgrounds including a FIFA certified football field, AUM Opera House, AUM Conference Center, parking areas, administrative and service areas. The American College of the Middle East (ACM) is also hosted within the campus. With sizeable grounds and multiple institutes of learning operating on site, AUM’s access control requirements were complex. The popularity of the campus with not only AUM students but also Kuwaiti youth in general meant AUM needed to ensure the right access was provided to the right people at multiple points on campus. AUM’s Director of IT highlights the challenge the administration faced in efficiently identifying, authenticating and providing access for more than 800 employees and over 10,000 students. “The campus needed to be secure, but at the same time easy to use, causing no inconvenience to students and staff.” Gallagher Command Center AUM needed a dynamic solution that met their access control requirements AUM needed a dynamic solution that met their access control requirements, could integrate with their core enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, and was scalable to accommodate future growth. Gallagher’s access control solution, featuring Gallagher Command Center and a range of integrations, was selected as the university’s preferred choice, meeting its requirements in the best possible way. MIFARE contactless smart cards Student and staff ID cards became part of the access control system with MIFARE contactless smart cards provided to students, faculty and staff. Turnstiles installed at the entrances to AUM and intelligent integrations with existing systems provided total control of movement within the campus. AUM uses learning software and automated systems widely across its campus. Extensive integration with the Gallagher solution has significantly reduced operational costs, creating efficiencies for staff and students and enhancing the overall security system. “Gallagher gives us the best option to fulfill our requirements, with a total solution,” says the university’s Director of IT. Integration with CCTV system Exam control rooms at AUM need to be fully secure. Command Center integrates with the CCTV system to ensure that when movement is detected, or someone tries to open the door, the CCTV is triggered, and a photo attached to the security report. Within the campus, access permissions need to be well defined for different groups. Access to the gymnasium, library and sports center is defined by male and female, staff and students. Command Center allows AUM to define these access controls in the directory, ensuring they happen automatically. Fully automated access control Fully automated access control gives us confidence in the system" “Fully automated access control gives us confidence in the system,” says the university’s Director of IT. “We don’t have to worry about it.” The reporting capabilities of Command Center provide AUM with greater control and audit information. The university is governed by a council, that regularly conducts audits. “The Gallagher solution helps us easily produce daily reports to meet those reporting requirements. It’s a fantastic solution, no doubt." The integrated booking system in the library controls access to study rooms, giving entry only to those who are included in the room booking. Staff and students no longer have to manage who is in the rooms, allowing them to get on with their work and study. The university’s Director of IT says in the past, monitoring and reviewing this information would take a person two or three days. “With this small integration from Gallagher, turnaround time has improved to within half a day for the same task.” Restricted access He adds, “Campus access for dismissed students has been prevented. Their access is automatically restricted by the admin department. Student’s whose access has been prevented can visit the admin department to rectify their enrollment status. The integration with the Gallagher solution is amazing. Our operational costs have been reduced wherever it is used.” With new construction underway and increasing popularity with students, AUM is a growing university. The Gallagher solution is growing alongside it, providing regular updates and new innovations. “Gallagher often contacts us about new initiatives and things they are introducing,” says AUM’s Director of IT. “We will implement them, because of the success of the current solution. We try at every point to take full advantage of the features offered to keep reducing operational costs. From an industry perspective, it’s a beautiful solution.”

The high-performance Predator Ultra HD PTZ video surveillance camera from UK CCTV manufacturer, 360 Vision Technology, has entered service at the National Coastwatch Institution’s (NCI) Felixstowe lookout station, to help protect lives along the coastline of the River Deben estuary. Felixstowe Coastwatch is a charity funded, volunteer-based organization with over 50 highly trained volunteers available to man lookout shifts. It’s also part of the NCI, a voluntary organization established in 1994 to restore a visual watch along UK shores, after many small Coastguard stations had been closed. Maritime navigation Felixstowe Coastwatch took over operations at the Lookout in April 1996 Under Felixstowe Coastwatch’s territory is the Deben estuary, whose treacherous shifting shingle banks and bar can present quite a challenge for maritime navigation, as Ian Clarke of Felixstowe Coastwatch explains: “Half of all call outs from the RNLI Harwich Lifeboat Station during 2016/17 were to attend incidents in this area, so it was clear that additional observation of the area would be beneficial and help to make it safer.” Felixstowe Coastwatch’s Lookout is built on top of Martello Tower ‘P’, one of the famous ‘Martello Towers’, built in the early 1800s as a defense against a possible invasion by Napoleon. The first lookout was originally built by HM Coastguard (replaced in 1979 by the current structure), who operated the Lookout until 1994. Felixstowe Coastwatch took over operations at the Lookout in April 1996. Experiencing CCTV cameras “Originally, the first idea to tackle the maritime issues at the River Deben estuary was to build an additional lookout tower,” says Ian. “That would have been a prohibitively costly exercise for a charity-based organization. However, after a visit to the NCI Station at Portland Bill, I was inspired by the use of CCTV there and interested to establish if video surveillance could be deployed to monitor the remote Deben estuary from our existing lookout station.” “The first task was to experience CCTV cameras in action, so we visited the Port of Felixstowe, the Felixstowe Town CCTV system and the Great Yarmouth Port Authority, where we saw the 360 Vision Predator in action. Impressed by the quality of its images, I contacted 360 Vision Technology for a demonstration, at which we were able to record video from the proposed location of the camera mast.” Comprehensive business case 360 Vision Technology had just launched their Predator equipped with a 40x optical zoom" “After the demonstration of the camera’s capability, I was able to prepare a detailed report to our trustees, setting out a comprehensive business case as to why a CCTV camera would offer the best solution to the issues we were facing at the mouth of the River Deben. I was able to use the recorded footage of the demonstration to produce a video highlighting the impressive capability of the imaging technology.” From Ian’s report, approval of the project was granted and the 360 Vision Predator Ultra HD was installed by STC Solutions Ltd, after funds were raised from council-allocated budget and fundraising events organized by Felixstowe Coastwatch volunteers. “When we placed the order, 360 Vision Technology had just launched their Predator equipped with a 40x optical zoom,” Ian continues. Wireless transmission solution “This was an important factor for us, as the entrance to the River Deben is expansive, and identifying vessels and individuals there would be greatly assisted by the optical zoom of the 360 Vision Predator camera.” With no line of sight from the camera to the lookout tower, an innovative wireless transmission solution was employed, using a belfry tower at a midway point in Felixstowe, where the signal is relayed to enable control and recording of the high definition images back at the lookout station. “Now operators can view superb live images of the River Deben, to confirm the identity, position and situation of vessels in the mouth of the river and if necessary, contact HM Coastguard if we observe any problems,” Ian explains. Seamless ONVIF integration Thanks to the broad integration capability of 360 Vision’s Predator Ultra HD, all surveillance video is archived for retrospective investigation, and controlled via a QVIS Viper NVR recorder. In addition, seamless ONVIF integration into Cambridge Pixel’s ‘RadarWatch’, a flexible client display application for radar display and target tracking, allows Felixstowe Coastwatch’s operators to set up virtual tripwire lines across dangerous areas of the river and shallow waters close to the main shipping channel. The trip alarms instantly alert operators and provide immediate verification of a vessel’s precise location Once crossed by a vessel, the trip alarms instantly alert operators and provide immediate verification of a vessel’s precise location, along with high-definition visual verification from the Predator camera. Also displayed as an overlay on screen, via the Predator Ultra camera and Cambridge Pixel technology integration, is Automatic Identification System (AIS) ship transponder information for each vessel, including a compass bearing supplied by the Predator camera’s head, which indicates which way the camera is pointing. Innovative installation “This means we can instantly identify and position any specific vessel we’re seeing with the camera,” says Ian. “We can also view the banks of the river and its beaches, to ensure that no members of the public are in danger.” Taking advantage of 360 Vision Technology’s any color and any finish design offer, the Predator Ultra camera was supplied in a Marine Grade white paint finish, and along with its powerful 40x zoom lens, is equipped with a ½” Ultra camera module to ensure maximum imaging performance, even in low-light conditions. This innovative installation has been so successful that Felixstowe Coastwatch are currently looking at other areas of the coastline where high-definition 360 Vision Predator Ultra HD cameras could assist with their daily operations, to protect the public and maritime traffic.

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